An Audience of One

The husband says if I want more readers, I have to make my blog purely professional. I have to name names and only write about work-related stuff. I can totally see his point.

I'm just not sure how much I care about having readers versus having a place to vent. When I read other blogs and see comments on them, I get jealous. But the thought of not writing about something because it didn't happen on set is depressing. This blog is supposed to be about me, not the already famous people I work with.

So. I haven't written anything for days and no one has noticed. But I miss it. I guess that's what really matters.

Art

I walked Sofie into the defunct cafeteria of our rented warehouse and found artwork on the walls. 3 of them are pretty generic, but the 4th is a Kandinsky. I put it up in my office and I'm planning on taking it with me at the end of the show. It's in a super nice frame and everything.

Done?

I really don't want to do the work that's on my desk - all contracts and crap for above the line producers and the director. I hate dealing with their paperwork.

Anyway, I just finished reading the archives for Barmaid Blog. It seems she's stopped writing on a regular basis though. I really enjoyed her work and often wonder what it would be like to have an audience like that, but I don't think I ever will. I'm not a great writer and I don't really have that much to talk about. I try but most of the time I forget to blog when something interesting happens and by the time I think to do it I've forgotten the details.

Maybe I should give it up.

There Could Be An Issue

The finance exec at the studio called our Production Office Coord not only incompetent but the most arrogant person she's ever met. Nice to know we're not the only ones who don't like him. His nickname is TAB, which stand's for TA's Bitch (TA being the UPM).

Misadventure

Did I mention I got a speeding ticket just outside Needles, CA? I was going 91 in a 70 and the cop busted me. I pulled over and she wrote it up and that was that. Until we realized that she must have scared Darby because the next thing we know the cat is taking a dump in the dog's bed.

We pulled over again and the husband got out with a bottle of water and a roll of toilet paper (which we are so glad we brought) and cleaned it out as best he could. She didn't do that the rest of the trip, luckily.

Anyway, I just called to find out how much the fine would be and the court clerk said they wouldn't have it in the system for 3 to 4 weeks. I was hoping to get it taken care of asap but I can't. Seems odd they put if off for so long.

We Made It.

Ok, it's been a long time since I posted but it's been a long trip.

The 1st night we made it to Santa Rosa, NM. The weather was fine, the hotel was nice, all went well.

The 2nd night we hit bad weather in Little Rock, AR. Snow, ice on the roads, etc. We decided we'd better drive on so we didn't get stuck there (not knowing the forecast). It's less than 150 from Little Rock to Memphis, TN and it took us 8 hours to get there. We only made it up to about 20 mph and there were 2 times we just sat for 20+ minutes waiting for the tow-trucks to haul the jack-knifed trailers out of the way. We were exhausted.

The 3rd night was spent in Roanoke, VA. It was cold but no more weather/traffic issues.

We got to Boston about 10pm Sunday night and checked into the final hotel. A really nice Hilton with a fantastic bed. But after staying at Super 8's across the country with free internet access, it really pissed us off that the Hilton wanted $10 per day for access. WTF?

Got to get back to work, more later.

Waiting to Go

My day has been so slow and I have so much to do at home before we leave. I'm just sitting here waiting for my paychecks to come through so I can process them, pack up my stuff, and go home.

About the best thing that happened today was seeing the husband when he brought over my stuff to ship. Whenever I see him somewhere different than normal, I flash back to our first date and seeing him waiting for me at the theatre. I hadn't realized until then how handsome he was.

I emailed my old assistant and told him I missed him. It was nice having someone to work with who I didn't have to train and keep an eye on. I also asked him to get me Hugh's autograph but didn't go so far as to ask him to get it on one of those bathing suit shots. Hubba hubba!

Anyway, I think I'm going to go ahead and start packing my office. There's only so many games of freecell a person can play.

And Jorge, if you get the part can I call you Jorge?

Star Comment Sighting!

You have to go back to Monday March 3rd and read the blog and comments - so cool.

And OMD is not a typo - it means Oh My Dog (since I don't believe in God but I do believe in my dog).

I've Been Sick

I've been sick and my boss sent me home early on Wednesday and Thursday and told me not to come in on Friday. So I spent most of the weekend sleeping and resting around and between my basic chores. I finally went to the doctor on Saturday because any exertion left me breathless and sweaty. I have an infection, most likely bacterial since it's responding to antibiotics. I also have an inflamed chest wall from all the coughing I did earlier in the week - that's what's causing the shortness of breath. So I have meds for that and an inhaler to keep me from coughing. Lovely.

I was supposed to go home early yesterday, too but I had to wait until I got my payroll in and it was my assistant's first day and I didn't leave until 6 (which technically is early). I feel better today but that's how it usually goes.. I'll have to see if I lose steam as the day progresses.

Got a lot to do to get ready to go. Have to check the weather reports for the southern route and clean and do laundry and pack and et al. I'm not worried - it'll all get done. I know I'm going for 6 months but I don't have to take my entire life with me. They have laundry and stores on the east coast. Anyway, this morning is take the cats to the groomers. Should be fun trying to round them all up.

Star Sighting (right from my desk)

They're casting for the movie around the corner and down the hall from me and I can see everybody coming in from the elevator right from my desk. Not that I recognize them all by name but a lot of them look familiar. It's hard not to stare at those - when you know who someone is right off, you can register it and move on. When they look familiar but can't be placed is when the staring starts. Very embarrassing.

I did see and recognize Jorge Garcia walk by (Hurley from Lost). I hope he gets the part.

Long Drive

I've been doing some research online about the drive to Boston. Mapquest wants to send us through Denver, Des Moines, Chicago, etc (the northern route) @ 2994 miles. I was thinking of going I-40 (the southern route) @ 3126 miles. The benefit is keeping south of any real winter weather.

Ugh - both of those numbers depress me.

I really just don't want to get stuck in snow and although preliminary forecasts look fairly clear until NY, it's colder on the northern route and therefore may be more likely to snow.

Anybody got a tips for me?

s.w.a.t

I just finished reading the script for s.w.a.t and I think the movie is better than the script. They definitely made it funnier but it's been a while since I saw the film so I don't remember other differences.

I do think it took a really long time to get the new team set up and into action. And I didn't care too much about any of them from what I read. All a bit stereotyped...

Anyway, another one down and tons more to go.

Sick-ish

I'm getting sick and I think it's because it's slow enough on my new show for my body to think I'm not working and it's losing all resistance. It's a phenomenon that happens to most people in the industry when they get done with a show. It's so busy during shooting you will yourself to stay healthy enough to work and then when it slows down all the accumulated germs attack and you're too weak to fight it off anymore.

Correction

Sorry, the director isn't complaining about $3000/month not being enough - he's complaining about $3000/week not being enough. He fuckin' can't find a place to live at $12,000 a month? Nope, he wants $20,000.

Asshat dumbas.

Cheap Bastard

The director on this movie has got to be one of the biggest asshats I've ever worked with. First, he wanted to know why we needed more than 3 accountants, then he complained $3000/month wasn't enough to find housing in Boston, now we find out he wants to use his budget money to hire a nanny instead of an assistant. He figures he'll just have the production office coordinator do all the work of his assistant on top of running the office.

The man is making more than $7 million on this show and he's complaining about not getting his personal expenses covered. Meanwhile, they cut our housing rate by $5 a day...

Sped

It looks like I'm going down to Sped's house this weekend. We haven't seen each other since Xmas and I don't know when we'll see each other once I go off to Boston. It should be nice.

Other than that, I don't have any great plans this weekend. More chores and getting stuff ready around the house. I'm glad we ended up with an extra week for all this crap.

Done and Done

It's official - we leave for Boston on March 6th. The date can't change because I've arrainged for a house/pet sitter to start then and that's that.

I actually found a lovely couple to watch things for us. They had great references and seemed quite nice when I met them at Starbucks last night. We'll have them come by next weekend to get keys and meet the kitties, learn about the basics of the house, etc. I'll be so glad if this works out - it'll save us a ton of money.

I still have to let the neighbor know they're going to be there so he doesn't call the cops on them! Too bad I can't seem to find his phone number.... Husband, do you have it?

Anyway. Our vet has changed clinics and thanks to the husband we know where she's gone. I've already made appointments for Sofie and Darby to get checked out for the trip but I still have to contact the old clinic and get the records. I asked the new place to do it and they tried, but the old place said I had to call for them. Lovely. I'm sure people switch vets all the time but it makes me uncomfortable. Then I remember how much I don't like the other vets and realize I have no choice. Tomorrow for sure.

They're casting for male singers for HSM3 right now. I think I'll try and grab something else for the girls before the end of the week. I have several things to get in the mail this weekend - books for my dad, stuff for Sped, and the sign I already stole for E's girls.

Upgrade

I just got a monitor upgrade at work - 22" monster! I feel like I should scoot back in order to see the whole screen at once.

This should be good for watching dvds at work. Or blocking people's view of me as they pass by.

Happy Birthday?

Why is it people sing Happy Birthday like it's a funeral dirge? I know there's a point in time when you don't want to get older but it's still supposed to be a celebration. If you can't sing it in less than 7 seconds you are singing too slow.

Poor Sofie

I took Sofie to the dog park yesterday (it was the 3rd time in as many days) and not 2 minutes after we got there she was being mauled by a schnauzer.

We entered the gates and walked over to the picnic table, passing a man with a dog between his feet sitting in a lawn chair. The guy was talking to the dog and I had the thought the dog must be new and scared. Well, I sat down and opened my book and heard this aggressive snarling. I looked around and then down to my feet and saw the schnauzer go at some dog's neck. It took me a second to realize it was Sofie! By then the guy had gotten to his dog and pulled it off and I picked Sof up and put her on the table, running my hand over her throat to make sure there wasn't any blood. It hadn't broken the skin but Sofie was terrified and covered in slobber.

I had the urge to pick her up and take her out but then realized if I did it might make her scared of coming back. So we sat for a minute and then walked down to the other end of the park. The man had put his dog back on the leash but they didn't leave either. It took about 45 minutes for Sofie to relax enough to play but she always knew exactly where that dog was and never strayed too far from me. At one point the dog was within 10 feet and Sofie wanted me to pick her up but I didn't - it was so hard not to coddle her. She did get extra attention from the other dog owners who asked if she was ok and scratched her bum.

After about 15 minutes of almost regular play we went home. The schnauzer was still there, still barking, growling, and jumping at every dog that got too close. I almost felt bad for it - it obviously needs the socialization.

Taxes

I got our taxes done today and I'm happy to report we are getting a refund. Now, normally we don't like to get a refund - we prefer to break even or pay a little. But with the trip to Boston and the need for a cat sitter I'm happy for the extra money.

I guess I should change my W4 allowances. Time to break out the tax tables and calculator!

Good Dog

I've never tried linking to a youtube video before but this is just too good...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0sUL0KCIc48

IM

I have AIM on my computer and ever since I figured out how to put a little message by my name I've been typing in something relevant and (hopefully) witty. A couple of days ago I changed it to "I need a cat sitter".

Today I changed it to "I $till need a cat $itter ($ubliminal)".

I got a hit off of an APOC I worked with on the SoaP reshoots. Her production secretary is looking for a sublet and if she agrees to sit for us she can live for free while she finds a good place.

Finger crossed folks!

Off To Boston

My impassioned plea to the husband worked! We'll be taking Sofie and Darby to Boston and leaving the boy kitties behind. Not that I won't miss them but they'll be better off not traveling. Now I just need to start packing and getting the house cleaned up. Lovely.

Husband, Damn The Cost!

I want you to come to Boston and if that means paying a cat sitter $23 a day to look after the boys then so be it. If push comes to shove we can cut the visit down to 4 weeks instead of 5. Either way, I think it's silly to waste the chance.

Kitty Sitting

I don't know what we're going to do about the cat sitting situation. The service we've used before wants $750 to sit 2 cats for 5 weeks and although that's not a terrible weekly rate the total is too much. I've only had one person respond to the mass email I sent looking for someone and while he's willing to do it, he doesn't have a job lined up and may have to take a show that goes out of town. Then we'd be stuck.

I was resigned to the husband not coming to Boston until during wrap (if at all) and me coming home once a month or so. Then it started to look like he could come for a month during prep and I got too excited. I want to say damn the cost but I know that's not something he'll be comfortable with.

I wish we had someone who would help us out the way I think we would help them out. It's just so damn depressing.

Flying the Pooch

I was talking to my boss about taking our dogs to Boston - I told her Sofie is too big for under the seat and we won't put her in cargo. But I would happily buy her a regular ticket if they'd let her fly in the cabin, either in a crate or not.

She told me on her last show, the star had his own writer who insisted his dog travel with him to Hawaii. They ended up having to buy the dog a 1st class round trip ticket. Not the star's dog, the star's writer's dog...

Must be nice.

My Weekend

I've put the word out on needing a house/cat sitter for the month of March so the husband can join me in Boston w/o having to drive cross-country with a dog and 3 cats in the car (by himself). There's still a chance I will be able to drive with him, but I can't make any guarantees yet. There are a couple of leads so we'll have to keep out fingers crossed.

Went out to dinner with C and T on Friday - good times. T tried to get the waiter to sing Amazing Grace but he declined. She kept at him for a while and basically held up our drink order but we finally got her to let it go. She thought we were at Macaroni Grill (where they do sing) but we were at Marmalade (where they don't).

My seafood pasta was good but their filet mignon tacos were not - the meat was dry and tough and very disappointing. I liked it as a whole but thought it was a bit pricey for regular visits.

The rest of the weekend went pretty well. I got a lot of chores done that had been piling up. Beside the regular laundry and grocery shopping, I got the patio cleaned up, some plants repotted, the bathroom cleaned, the bedroom vacuumed, the orignal artwork hung, the books and dvd's shelved, and a pile of papers sorted. I still have stuff to do but it doesn't seem so overwhelming now.

And this morning I finally put the case of Alpo out by the dumpster (it wasn't good on Sofie's digestive system). It was gone by the time we got back from our walk...

SPFX Flowers

No, they didn't explode...

Underdog Was Here

Watch The Attitude

We may have an issue with the Production Office Coordinator on this show. Last night the accountant and I went to speak to him about our travel plans and he actually questioned her. He got all indignant about the possibility I may end up working 6 days if I traveled on Sunday as if it was any of his business. I couldn't believe what I was hearing. The accountant started explaining it to him but she shouldn't have to explain herself to anyone but the UPM.

This morning, she came into my office and shut the door. I immediately wondered if I was going to get fired when she said, "So, about D..." and I said "I couldn't believe he was questioning you" and then we hashed over the whole exchange trying to figure out who he thought he was. If he's like that the whole show it's going to be ugly. The superior, condescending attitude has to go.

And if his "travel czar" doesn't improve dramatically, it'll be a disaster. We are all just waiting for that ship to sink.

Sofie On The Line

Sofie went with her dad to the picket line yesterday. She made quite an impression on everybody except the writers. They are a surly lot. But she enjoyed the attention from the security guards and the tourists and ending up sleeping most of the afternoon - it's so exhausting being cute.

I had made her an outfit to wear but the husband decided against it. It said "My dad can haz internet residualz? kthxbai" I'll try to get a snap of it to post.

I'm A Thief

Well, I got something from HSM 3 this morning - I peeled a directional sign off the wall. It doesn't look like anything official so I'll have to see if I can come up with something better. It's funny, I think they've started casting for smaller parts because the kids coming in look like true kids. If at all possible they try to get young looking 18+ year olds to avoid having to limit the hours on set and hiring teachers.

A Love Story In 3 Acts

Shooting Range

Husband,

Do you want to go the shooting range on Saturday? It's not cheap but it may be fun and it's for a good cause. Let me know.

da Wife

I have never fired a gun in my life (BB guns don't count) and I've always wanted to try it. Then again, we could go to Santa Barbara instead.

Voting Enabled

I walked down to the elementary school this morning and voted. I had pretty much made up my mind over the past week who I wanted to vote for and I even took the time to look at the different propositions in the state and make decisions on those. I felt mature and prepared which is almost too much for 8am.

The polling place was dead when I went in - no lines or anything. They didn't even check my ID which is probably an issue. It was actually more difficult to figure out how to get my paper ballot scanned than anything else - they should have had a diagram or something.

I've done my part - now I'll have to see what happens come November.

While Getting Groceries...

I had to stop by the grocery store last night to get some frozen veggies (love those steam-in-the-bag kind!) and had a star sighting - I walked right between Juliette Lewis and the frozen waffles. I figured I'd eventually see a celebrity at that store since it's at the base of the hills. Then I managed to walk out right behind her. She's prettier in person but very tiny.

Wolverine

My assistant just got hired to go to Australia and do payroll on Wolverine (the US crew). I am so jealous. I would totally bail on Boston to go there for 4 months.

I know the accountant on that show so I sent her an email and said the next time she goes Down Under she'd better take me with her.

Hopefully he'll need to ask me lots of questions and then I can get an autograph from Hugh as payment. Especially since this is the guy who decided he didn't want the Boston job because he didn't want to do payroll anymore.

Man, I am so jealous.

HSM 3

I will try to get something, but there's nothing really official. Mostly it's sheets of paper taped to the walls that say "HSM 3 Please take a seat" or "HSM 3 Please sign in".

Not that exciting but I'll keep my eyes open.

Star Sighting

Last night, while out for my birthday dinner, the husband and I saw William Sanderson (from Blade Runner, Newhart, and Deadwood to name just a few). We weren't sure at first it was him, but when we heard him speak we were certain. I love that guy. Such a good actor.

I told the husband as we were leaving how much I liked that restaurant and he said it was only because I keep seeing celebrities there (it's where I saw Navarro) but I like the food and atmosphere, too.

Speaking of stars, we stopped by the tattoo shop on the way home and made my appointment for my birthday tattoo. Tomorrow at 3pm I'm getting the sun/moon/stars tattoo on my left shoulder cap. It's supposed to take about 2 hours and I'm excited. Thanks for the great present husband. Everybody thinks it rocks!

Casting

They are casting for High School Musical 3 on the same floor as my new office. I wasn't sure what it was because the signs only said HSM 3 and since I'm old it didn't register. Today the signs are spelled out. I should have figured it out yesterday when I kept hearing people singing... There are a couple of other casting offices on this floor and it's fun to walk past them on the way to get water or use the restroom - they're so eager and nervous and diligently going over their lines. I always wonder if they hope/fear I'm someone who could affect their career.

There goes the singing again. At least it's good.

Cute Puppies

Bored Again

It's time to go home and I've got almost everything from my office packed up. The only things I'm leaving behind are my pilates ball, my electric stapler, and some extra adhesive. It looks like I'll be able to come back for a few days next week - for what I don't know. It's so boring and unless the payroll company gets their shit together I have nothing to do.

Blech.

Day 1

Today is my first day at the Boston show. It's been a good day - I think I'm going to like working with this group. I only brought a limited kit with me and the one good blue pen died within the first 30 minutes. All I could find was a black pen and I don't like to do payroll in black - blue shows up much better. But that was the worst that happened unless you count the fact the other office went home at 5:30. I'll have to see what time I get home before I decide. My commute is only about 15 minutes instead of an hour.

I go back to the guinea pig movie tomorrow and Friday (at least). I have to pack up the rest of my stuff and hope the holiday report gets sent over. And Friday they're having cake to surprise me for my birthday. Yum.

Accident

I forgot to mention the accident on the lot this morning. I didn't see anything but the aftermath but our clerk saw the whole thing in his rear view mirror.

There's an underground parking garage on the lot and when you go down the ramp to enter, you have to make an immediate left. It's dark but not that narrow. If you're not careful you can cut the corner too close and the change from sun to dark can mess up your vision. Apparently there was a man working on a grate - he was set up in the right hand lane just after the turn. He had cones and stuff set up but it was still a dangerous spot.

The clerk said he thought about it as he was entering, that the man was not in a good spot and that there could be a problem. The SUV that entered after the clerk was the problem. The woman driving it went right over the cones and the man's leg. She claimed she didn't really see the cones and didn't see him at all. He claims he got dragged by her car. The clerk saw the SUV hit the guy but didn't see any dragging and did see the guy get up afterward and run after the car. He figured the guy was ok if he could do that much.

The whole thing is just kind of screwy. The guy was in a bad spot at a bad time and the woman probably wasn't paying a lot of attention. At least no one is really hurt.

Boston

The acct from my Boston show called me this morning. Apparently they're trying to cut $5 million out of the budget and there's a chance it will shut down. She wanted to let me know it would be ok if I started looking around - she wouldn't be offended.

Until we know for sure I'm going to start over there 2 or 3 days a week. The UPM said he doesn't want to lose me and she agrees. I'm probably not going to start looking until next week or after. If I put my name out I'll get calls and I'm not ready to abandon Boston yet. She thinks they'll know something by the end of next week.

They had a huge meeting yesterday and the dumas director actually asked the question "do we need to have more than 3 people in the accounting office?" Well, only if you want your crew and vendors paid correctly and on time... Like cutting down on the accounting staff will save your movie. If you want it saved don't pay the star $20 million or cut back on your own salary. Or maybe don't pay the DP $20K per week.

I told my assistant about it and she's decided to go ahead and look for other work just in case. I completely understand but it's too bad. I think we would have worked well together. Hopefully it'll all still work out.

Push

I found out today my Boston show is pushing for 2 weeks. The accountant still wants me to start next Monday but she has to talk it over with the UPM. Luckily he likes me and maybe he'll let me start. Otherwise I have to decide if I'm going to keep coming down to the guinea pig movie or take some time off.

The problem with taking time is the push might last longer than they think or the show may go away all together. Then I'd have to find something else. Not really a problem but a hassle.

Weekend Activities

Saw Cloverfield this weekend - it was a hard movie for me to watch. I still have trouble with 9/11 imagery and they used it very effectively. It's hard for me to decide if I liked it or not - I feel odd saying I enjoyed it when it's so dark. But it wasn't a bad movie either. It's just tough.

Didn't do much else this weekend. We got the Vespa fixed - just a bad battery after all. I'm really looking forward to riding it - I'd forgotten how much fun it was. We took Sofie to the dog park both days of course. I did some chores and ran my Roomba (which I love). I could use a day off where I don't have to even get out of bed.

Freak

Abacus

One of the 2nds gave everybody an abacus for Christmas and I just spent 10 minutes trying to figure it out. I found a website that had a tutorial but frankly I don't see the point to it. They said the person using the abacus does the calculations in his/her head and uses the beads to keep track. I always thought it would do some of the math for you. It seems like it should but I think it'll take longer than 10 minutes to be able to manipulate it easily and understand what I'm doing.

But then what else am I going to do? I finished the JJ Abrams script for Superman and it was abyssmal. I had to stop and tell my asst about whatever foolishness was going on at the moment. It was just not good.

Pleh

Consistent

I know my posts aren't all that interesting, but it doesn't really matter since I don't think I have any regular readers. One thing I am proud of is the fact I manage to post something almost every day (helps that I work on a computer for 10-12 hours a day). I read some other blogs that are good, but if they don't post on a regular basis I get bored with them.

Anyway, got the Vespa towed into the shop this morning. I was embarrassed to tell the guy it hadn't been ridden in a while but I can't help that I work an hour away in crappy traffic and it's cold/rainy out. I hope it's just a dead battery.

I've started packing up my office. Mostly just the toys and frivolous stuff so far. I did toss a few old memos but most of it will have to wait until next week. I wonder if I should cull the toy herd a bit. I'll have to see how many boxes I end up with.

Scooter Fix

I'm finally taking my Vespa to the shop tomorrow. I'm a horrible person for letting it get to this point in the first place because if I had riden it more often it probably wouldn't be dead. But it's really hard when it's an hour commute in heavy traffic and I'm not comfortable lane-sharing. But I'm planning to ride it to the new office come the 29th even in the cold. I can't wait. I hope I can get it shipped to Boston...

Ouch

I got my eyebrows done on Saturday (waxing, tweezing, trimming, etc). She did a great job and I was really happy until I realized yesterday that I must be really sensitive to the wax because the skin around my brows is red and irritated. It's also breaking out. Lovely. I've been putting neosporin on them which makes them look odd, but it's helping.

I also bought more sugar scrub for my lips as I left the cocoa one at home for K to use. They didn't have that flavor again so I got cinnamon sugar and it's good but the cocoa is better.

We finished shooting yesterday and I start my new show on the 28th but I still don't know when I'm going to Boston. Sometime in February I guess. I'm kind of glad I'll be at home for my birthday this year. Last year was a bit sad, leaving 2 days before.

Shrine

The husband and I went to the convention at the Shrine yesterday to sell off some excess comics and books. We didn't do as well as before but not too bad. We got rid of some stuff and that's always a good thing.

There was a woman there dressed as slave Leia - full costume. I was really impressed because I was freezing in jeans and jacket and she was half-naked! What a trooper - I hope they made extra money because of it. Her husband(?) was dressed as Han Solo so I'm sure he was just fine.

Work is still very slow. We were done with the payroll by 11am and since we're supposed to finish shooting tomorrow this week won't be any more time-consuming. I really don't know what I'm going to do to occupy my time. There's just not enough work for 2 of us. I guess I'll need to get more scripts to read. At least those aren't as obvious as a book or magazine.

I did clip coupons at my desk this afternoon. That was obvious...

Job Offers

Got an email this morning from an accountant I've talked to before, but never worked with. She's choosing between 2 shows, one going to Connecticut and the other going to Portland. Man, I would love to go to Portland but I had to tell her I'm already booked.

I did make sure I mentioned my interest in case my Boston show went down.

Total Bullshit

A friend sent me the following link:

http://www.nypost.com/seven/01092008/business/payroll_company_is_casualty_of_writers_s_20817.htm

The headline places blame for the payroll company's demise solely on the writer's strike. But if you read the article, others claim the company was already faltering and the strike was just the final straw.

But what really hacks me off is the claim that people won't be getting their paychecks. TOTAL BULLSHIT!. There's no way the studios and unions would allow that to happen and I know for a fact the payroll was diverted to 2 other payroll companies on Tuesday morning for processing. Everybody will get their money and it will be sooner rather than later. Sure, some productions will lose out on deposits, but the crews will get paid. That's a non-issue and inflammatory.

Gym Rat Out

I have been having a really hard time getting back to the gym since my trainer left. I'm not sure why but I don't respond well to change. Every morning I get up at 5 to walk Sofie, but haven't managed to get my gym clothes on. This morning I did manage to get dressed and get in the car, but instead of turning left towards the gym I turned right, drove around the block, and went back to bed. Maybe it's progress, maybe not. I know I have to go back and I will. I just hope it's sooner rather than later.

Out of Business

One of the payroll companies shut its doors today with no notice. Luckily they're one of the smaller ones but what a nightmare for those shows! The payroll accts had to fax their stuff to one of the other companies, along with all the necessary start paperwork. And the accounts payable crew has to try and get its data saved and transferred to another operating system.

I'm so glad I'm not having to deal with any of that. I'd be a raving bitch.

Back To Work

It's back to the daily grind on GF. We have 7 scheduled days of plate unit and miniatures and then it's all over. I don't know what my last day will be but I hope it's soon. Actually, the show is ok I'm just tired of the commute and we've been really slow. There really isn't enough work for 2 of us but the accountant wants my assistant to go on the next show with him so he's not going anywhere.

I feel like I've had this idea before but there's nothing else going on to write about. Maybe we'll blow something up this week...

2 Cuties

Quiet Day

OMG I am so bored today. I have no work to do and the phones are out. I was thinking I may get some calls from people who haven't gotten their check yet but not gonna happen unless they call my cell phone. I actually just walked around and gave out timecards so people could fill them out and give me some work.

If it wasn't for the money I would have stayed home in bed. Maybe we'll all get to leave early and I can check out the tattoo shop - I need to find out how much it's going to cost to have a little work done on the one on my hand. I want to have the colors adjusted and some vines added.

I'd like to start checking out housing in Boston but we still don't have a production office. Not really any point to it without knowing what area I need. I'm hoping to get something within walking distance or maybe bike riding distance. I have no idea what to expect although Sped has friends who are from there so maybe they can help me out once I know where I'm going.

No More Trainer

I found out this morning that my trainer is moving to Texas on the 4th of January! AARRGGHH! What am I supposed to do now? I made my New Year's resolution to eat less and exercise more and lose 45 pounds by the end of the year. I thought I was being realistic and was motivated to make it happen. Then he doesn't show today and my gym partner tells me he got a job offer over Christmas and he's leaving. Damn. I mean, I know I'm off to Boston in February for 5 or 6 months but it's so not fair. That's the 3rd trainer I've lost since I've had a trainer. Basically that's all of them. I must be a trainer jinx.

But maybe the husband will let me take the $400 a month I'm not spending on training and buy an elliptical machine for the house. He could use it while I'm gone and I promise to use it every day (and I'm only going to the gym for 4 days a week now). What do you think, husband?

Going Home

OK, I'm back from seeing the family over Christmas and I had a great time. I missed the husband and the animals, but it was very nice spending all my time with my family. My niece and nephews are older and a lot more fun to be around. We played in the leaves and kicked a rock around (soccer-rock) and baked coffee cakes and basically just amused ourselves.

My sister paid for my niece to get her ears pierced as a present and because she was nervous, I said I'd get my right ear pierced with a 2nd hole. I already had the 2nd one in my left ear from college but never thought about getting the right one done. It worked well because she got to see how easy it was before having to go through it. I'm a good aunt because it kind of hurts and I keep getting my hair wrapped around it (which I had to lie about when my sister-in-law asked me if I'd had any trouble because my niece didn't want to wash her hair).

Anyway, it was good to see everyone and makes me wish I'd keep in better touch, but I know I won't. It's nothing personal but you can't help but get caught up in your own life. There's a chance my older nephew and my #2 brother will visit me in Boston, but who knows what'll happen by then.

Bee-llorina

Our construction accountant's dog on Halloween.

Slow Day

Call wasn't until 10:30 this morning and we finished handing out checks around 11am. Now we're sitting at our desks with nothing to do until 6pm.

I have already called to schedule a pick-up of the old gas grill that was abandoned at our townhouse (it's next Thursday Husband). They won't take the propane tank but I'm thinking of dropping that off at Lowe's or somewhere in the middle of the night.

I also called the HOA managment company to find out who is responsible for the entry system. It's still ringing up the old disconnected number and I'd like to have people be able to call us properly when they come over.

Then I called AAA and found out I don't have coverage to have my Vespa towed to the shop so I went ahead and called the guy the shop recommended. I have to call him at 9:30 in the morning to have them come by around 10. I don't know how long it'll take to get it fixed but I hope it's fast, easy, and cheap.

I passed a furniture shop that's going out of business and I'm thinking of stopping on my way home and checking out the dining room sets. Not that I really need one, though. Actually, I need to see if CB is going to get off work early enough to go to bingo.

Bingo!

The last bingo of the year is this Thursday. I can't really tell what charity it's sponsoring but I haven't made it yet and I want to go! Husband, what do you think?

And if you don't wanna go maybe CB will go with me...

Merry Christmas!

Free Rice

You can go to www.free rice.com and play a fun vocabulary game and do some good. Each word you get right donates grains of rice to stop world hunger. The thing only started in October and they've already had over 9 billion grains donated.

From ICHC.Com

Kitty Porn!

Goin' Home Early

I have to say there are times I dearly love working Sunday through Thursday. I love having Fridays off to run errands or make appointments and I love being alone in the office on Sundays - I can blast my music and sing along. Even better, I can leave when I'm done - I don't have to kill time waiting for 6 o'clock. Like today! It's only 1:30 and I'm all done with everything in my basket that I can do w/o more information. I think I'll run by Target then take my dog to the park. Yay for me!

Oh, yeah. I took the job in Boston. I'll be doing The Surrogates with Bruce Willis next spring. I leave late January or early February and will be there until June/July.

Sped, come visit me!

Doctor Appt

I have to go to the cardiologist tomorrow and get a blood pressure monitor that I will wear for 24 hours. It's supposed to prove/disprove my high blood pressure. We'll see. I have to say I haven't had any more episodes since I've been on the medication but it's the lower dose so I can't be that bad off.

It would have to be on payday, though. I'm probably going to look like a science experiment when I'm handing out checks. I'm not looking forward to all the questions but questions are better than people just staring and trying to pretend there's nothing unusual going on.

LolNixon

Sick

Boy, you forget to take your allergy meds for a couple of days and you start hacking up a lung! I hate live Xmas trees...

12/9 Pic

Griffith

The husband suggested we go up to the observatory last night and it sounded like fun. We didn't realize the DWP Xmas light show was at the same freeway exit and it took us about 45 minutes to go about 5 miles. But once we got past that it was fine. The view of the city is amazing from up there - lights going on forever. And it seemed you could hear everything - dogs barking and distant traffic and everything.

The remodel is nice, but I'm glad they seemed to stay in the era in which the observatory was originally built. Nothing was jarring. We didn't stay to see the show - I want to do that sometime but it was cold and late.

On the way home, driving down Las Feliz, the husband saw 3 coyotes crossing a side street. I only saw one but I pointed out to him how fearless they are. It was only about 9pm and Las Feliz is a busy, well-lit street.

Speaking of coyotes, I saw one this morning but it already had something in its mouth so it wasn't all that interested in us. I don't know what it was and I don't really want to think about it. I just know the coyote ducked through the hedge into the yard across the street with it.

12/6 Pic

Happy St Nicholas Day!

I'm about to go home and veg out - today's been a long day.

The POC's dog was in the office today and he decided to come by my desk and piss on the floor. Luckily he missed my foot and the big stack of actor files. I yelled to her about it and she came and cleaned it up - hopefully it won't stink tomorrow. Then again, I'm not here tomorrow so what do I care?

I went out to set to hand out checks and managed to get shunted off the freeway because they're doing a lot of construction and I missed the fact I was in an exit only lane. I think it took me longer to get to set than it did to hand out the checks. Some days it takes forever to find everybody but this was zip in and zip out. I almost went to Target (which was right across the parking lot) but I hadn't eaten lunch yet and wanted to get back in time for the 2nd unit catering.

Then it was clean up and research. I had to wrap my head around a SAG project and check some numbers. Took longer than I anticipated because it was based on stupidity and that's not a language in which I'm fluent. I got it done, though.

Did I mention I pinched my palm in my mondo stapler yesterday? I've got a red mark and a dime-sized bruise. At least it doesn't hurt anymore and the medic gave me a whole tube of Arnica. Yay free stuff!

I also got a call from an accountant about a job but she spoke so quickly I have no idea what her name was. It's a Sony show, but that's all I know. The timing may not work out - she's going to call me back. We'll see.

I forgot today is St Nicholas Day. It's also Sofie's birthday - she's 3 (we don't actually know when her birthday is but we know it's around this time and St Nick's Day is as good as any).

Today's Pic

Rebates

Ok, so I'm a slacker at times. I got a front loading washer and dryer back in January when we moved into the townhouse and there were 2 rebates available for the washer ($150 from the power company and $35 from the gas company).

I'm just now filling them out... It's sad because I'm usually really good at getting my rebates. I guess this time they didn't factor into whether or not I bought the things so it wasn't as urgent. My real estate agent paid for most of them as a gift.

But if they both come through that's $185 for Christmas!

Gatlinburg (Pretty)

Another Gig?

I just got back from talking to the UPM - he's putting my name for a BW show in Boston. I'm so flattered and excited. We'll see what happens.

Work And No Work

I just talked to T about her next job and it's pending. Apparently they are waiting to confirm the star will actually be available to shoot - she might do something else. It's a music diva and funnily enough I worked with her sister several years ago (it's not JLo).

Anyway, I'm not nervous about it becasue something will come up - it always does. I just hate turning down work (the NOLA gig). It's the whole "bird in the hand" aspect. Plus I think I'm afraid the accountant will take it personally.

But mostly I'm bored. We're in a holding pattern waiting for the payroll company to send over some edits. I've surfed and played and even done some work, but I'm all out now. My assistant has gone over to the AP side to help them out but I don't so that anymore. It made me bitter when I would help them and they would never help me. So here I sit, bored and looking for something to occupy the next hour.

The UPM wants to talk to me but he was eating lunch with the producer when I went by earlier. Maybe I should go check now...

Nix the NOLA

I talked myself into taking the show in NOLA then talked myself back out of it.

The pros are: extra money from per diem and possibly housing, having a job lined up, going to NOLA on someone else's dime, my own rental car.

The cons are: being away from the husband and the animals, no Idle days, 5 months stuck in NOLA, finishing 1 month before the strike, no scooter.

I may think of more but basically I feel better now that I'm going to say no than I did when I thought I was saying yes.

Christmas Allergies

I am allergic to evergreens, have been since I was young but didn't realize it until I was 27 or 28. The office has put up a live tree and I can already feel my sinuses responding. Bring on the OTC drugs!

Trying to Bust the Crew

Is it wrong that I hope I caught a crew member double-dipping on another show? One of our set dressers turned in his start paperwork and it had a piece from another show in it. That show is on the same lot but I think they are using a different payroll company so it wouldn't get found that way. I'm waiting for the other payroll accountant to call me back and let me know. I really want to bust them.

Star Sighting

The husband and I went to a local grill for dinner last night and I saw David Navarro. Have to say he's a hottie - love the beard.

Idle Days

When you work on location the production company pays you "idle days". Basically it's a half day of pay each for Saturday and Sunday to compensate for any jobs you may have missed out on if you had been at home. It's in the union/guild contracts and most studios pay it to everyone who travels (except for the lowly production assistants).

Guess who doesn't pay idle days to accountants? The studio who wants to hire me to go to New Orleans. Umm, I don't think so. The whole point of going on location is to make extra money through idle days, housing, and per diem. Why go if there's no benefit?

I think I'm going to have to say no - just not worth it.

NOLA 2

I have officially turned down the WWE movie - just don't want to do an independent film on location with Renny Harlin.

As for the studio project, I called the accountant and told him I was interested, but needed more info before I made a decision. He doesn't have all the details yet so it may not happen anyway, but it's still a possibility.

NOLA

Is this a sign? I've gotten 2 calls today on shows going to New Orleans. One is with Sony (called Mardi Gras) and the other is a wrestling movie by the WWE.

I've never been to NO and I'm not sure I want to go. If I do, it would definitely be on someone else's dime.

I would like to work on location after this guinea pig movie is over. If the actors strike then I want to make as much money as possible. I'm just not sure I want it to be in NO.

Something Cute

1909-2007 JRT

Well, Granny passed away on Thursday morning and it's been non-stop since then. The husband called me around 9:15am and told me the news. I started looking for plane tickets, tried to find a dog-sitter (ended up calling the kennel), called the cat-sitter, called the funeral home, and found a replacement for myself at work. All this while trying to finish getting paychecks out. Thank dog my assistant is good at his job - I'd have never made it without him.

We took the red-eye back east and basically ended up being awake for over 24 hours. Took a short nap when we got in then drove down to the funeral home. It's a blessing she lived in a small Southern town because they did so much to help us out. We finally figured out where her first husband was buried (in her family plot since her parents outlived him). There was a spot left open for her so that's where she went. Otherwise she would have been buried head-to-head with her daughter which might not have gone over so well...

Anyway, we picked out a casket and a suit, wrote the obituary and arrainged for the service. It took less than an hour.

Time to go home and crash now - more tomorrow.

Bookworm

I've had a game of Bookworm going since Saturday or Sunday. I was over 500k points and still going strong. My stupid computer did an automatic update last night and restarted itself. Gone, it's all gone. Damn.

Clyde

Nothing new on Granny at the moment but with the help of my mom we've just about found out where her first husband Clyde Roberts (the husband's grandfather) is buried and whether there's a plot for her with him. He apparently died in 1966 and there's a good chance something was done then for her. Not a fun topic but there it is.

Write a will, keep it current, and let everybody know where the damn thing is.

Granny

The doctor from the nursing home called this morning to tell us Granny had a stroke over the weekend and it doesn't look good. Apparently she's been declining for the past week or so. Of course, the woman is around 100 so it's not surprising. We don't know how much longer she has but I do know Betty was called to her "deathbed" on a pretty regular basis and she pulled through.

I've been calling the nursing home and the funeral home, trying to find out if Granny had any arrangements set up and no one knows of anything. I've arranged it with the funeral home to get a plot (only $300 for the land and $500 for the digging and the tent/chairs, etc).

Now all we can do is wait for the call, get tickets, and fly east. We'll pick out a casket and schedule the service when we get there.

Strike Stuff

Whenever someone opens the door, I can hear the honking of car horns in support of the writer's picketing the studio. And I've been reading about several shows that are shutting down because the actor's won't cross the lines.

I wonder how long it'll last - the support, I mean. It's all good now because most people haven't had a chance to NOT get a paycheck...

Anyway. We got new script pages today but they're dated 11/3. I wonder how accurate that is.

Question for the Husband

Can I relate your tales from the picket line?

Writer's Strike

The husband is a member of the Writer's Guild and has been called to duty this week - he's picketing outside a studio during the afternoon shift. Therefore I feel I have the right to say something about what's going on...

Although my job hasn't been affected and probably won't be, there's no guarantee I'll be able to get work when it's wrapped. Come January, if the strike is still on, I may be out of luck. There are some people who are out of luck now and more who will get laid-off in the coming weeks and months. Despite all that, I think the writer's are doing the right thing.

I read a comment on a news site - the author compared selling s script to selling a painting. Basically, if they create a painting and sell it for $1000 that's all there is and they shouldn't expect any more. Fine, but what would happen if the buyer of that painting took that image and made postcards and magnets and coffee cups and mouse pads and umbrellas and t-shirts and tote bags and prints and anything else you can think of - and walked away with $1 million dollars? Would the painter still feel ok about it or would they want a piece of that pie?

The studios make money from the advertisers but the ads don't run by themselves. They are embedded into scripted content that someone created. That someone deserves a percentage of that profit. It's not like most of the people are millionaires. Yes, they make good money but they don't work 52 weeks a year and they aren't guaranteed to work from one year to the next.

Anyway, not many people read this blog and the ones who do already know what I think about the strike. I'mnot trying to change any minds, just clearing my own.

Scam Update

We finally heard back from the casting director about the background actor...

"ALSO, I spoke with our "friend" MS. It is a big long story, but bottom line is that he WAS a part of a scam (KS had to leave for another shoot, and supposedly called a friend who called MS to come and "replace" him). MS claims to be innocent in that he didn't know he was doing anything wrong, just trying to get work, needs money...etc... He claims that he can't even get in touch with KS. I yelled at him and told him, of course, that he will not be paid for that day, etc... I have also since had KS kicked out of his service for this. I told MS that if he needs money, he should get a job."

I do love it when people get busted.

Payday Surprise

Today is Thursday which is payday for the film industry. Our checks were ready early so I called the different off-production departments and told them to come and get 'em. The Special Effects department called back to ask if there was anything we needed from them and I said "roses, any color" then asked Colin what he wanted (fireworks). The SPFX Foreman joked about bringing Colin a 16lb bomb - I have no clue what that actually is but said we'd take it out into the parking lot and blow it up.

When the SPFX PA showed up, he had a dozen red carnations in a beautiful bouquet for me! Some people look down on carnations but to me, a flower is a flower and they are all pretty. I got a coffee can out of the trash (no vases) and cut the stems down. It's sitting on the file cabinet and it's really nice - makes me feel appreciated.

Now if I could just get that actor I helped on the phone to cough up...