Adams Avenue Street Fair 2009

I love living in this area. Don't get me wrong, growing up in Bonita, San Diego was lovely in the 70s and 80s - total horse country and rural. Now it has been so built around that the traffic is awful with Starbucks on every corner. After college in Orange County and some time pursuing acting in Los Angeles I have pretty much as an adult lived in certain parts of San Diego: gay Hillcrest, or neighboring Mission Hills, Kensington or North Park.

Here in North Park it is becoming even more up and coming to live in as Hillcrest is just too crowded. With the influx of more gay men moving here we are seeing better restaurants and lounge bars with that low mood lighting that I just love. Walking to the dog-friendly coffee shops is a staple for local artists to perform in. And another fabulous thing are the street fairs that occur a few times a year. Just perfect for live-music lovers and street photographers like Patrick and I!


Last September we walked around the very hot but lively Adams Avenue Street Fair. One of the largest free music street fairs in California, it has over 70 live music acts on 6 stages, three beer gardens, Giant Carnival rides and 300 hundred craft & food vendors.

One of our local favorite bands, Red Pony Clock was performing so we shot pics to send to the band. They warrant a blog later, so I won't give up too much on them now except that they are a great time and unique!

We had only been married a week when we went to this fair and I remember almost dropping with pride when Patrick yearned for a cold beer at Ye Ould Sod pub, and so we decided to drop in. I, however, had forgotten my ID and Patrick told the bouncer, "My wife left her ID at home, she isn't having any alcohol, can she still come in?"

Well, we weren't allowed in without it, but it didn't matter. Because it was the first time I heard Patrick call me 'his wife' in public and hearing it uttered on his curved lips just made my day!

Enjoy the slide show below!

Adams Avenue Street Fair 2009

September Living

Yes. You read correctly. This blog and it's pictures figure from our North Park life in September. Although we are now in November. At least I got the "ember" right....

Click on slideshow below:

September Living 2009

"Fashion Hits a High Note"

I commented to Patrick lately that I am almost stressed out about how back=blogged I am on here. Especially in posting photo blogs on here and my picassa which is what I am using this blog for more than anything nowadays.

So, with that - PULEEASE forgive me barely posting things from months, maybe even years ago on here. I want it done!

This blog is about a fashion show I did last May - that was extra FANTABULOUS for me - - not only because the clothes and styling were exquisite and retro but because it benefited and took place on the beautiful San Diego Lyric Opera's stage at the Birch Theater in North Park. To model and do my thing in front of tons of theater and opera folk who know me for my voice and acting talents was a treat!Taken below is a press excerpt and photos are by Will Parsons. Wonderful!

Lyric Opera San Diego and Leonard Simpson presented “Fashion Hits a High Note” on Thursday, May 14 at the Birch North Park Theatre. The evening celebrated 30 years of Lyric Opera San Diego and the venue’s 80th year. Guests arrived on a red carpet that led into this beautifully remodeled theater, originally a movie house. This elegant event began with a delightful social hour and a fabulous silent auction with must-have items.

While Simpson, of Fashion Forward, produced the show. He is known for his high-tech runway shows and his drama. This show had one high note after another, combining fashion, singing and dancing.
The runway was not the typical catwalk. The models came out onto the stage and took turns walking down the left and right stairs into the aisles, showing off their stylish fashions. The highlight of the evening was a segment in which all the male models took off their shirts—the audience went wild. Lyric Opera San Diego brings in opera and musical theater productions with live orchestras and talented singers. Its mission is to create a vehicle in which young professionals can hone their craft alongside established artists.

Click on Slideshow below for more!

"Fashion Hits A High Note"

The Pain, er Beauty of new Headshots

I am a professional, union Actress.

I have worked professionally mostly in theater and commercials, with a bit of indie film and TV work.

The last 4 years I have concentrated more on modeling and my classical singing but I am excited to be pursuing more acting work again - read: E got married and wants to buy her man a Canon 5D Mark II Digital or a new Leica Camera. And, heck, I may even get myself an Arabian horse :)

I lived in LA 10 years ago and wow, how much I've grown up since then. I was so green, and I am not just meaning that I went up there as a non-union performer. I was naive in many things about life. I am excited and thankful to my new husband who is supporting my giving it another go up there. I've always known and said that dating an artist-type can be very difficult. Now I'm married to a man who knows zero of the Industry - - but I almost feel that is in our favor.

I realized I needed new headshots. My last ones are about 5 or 6 years old and in black and white - - - oh ho ho, Hollywood does it in color now.

So, a couple weeks ago I went to shoot at www.armenasadarian.com for my new Los Angeles and Orange County agents. And, yes, I am keeping my beloved San Diego Model Management agency of 11 years, meanwhile, as they love me and I work steadily here with them).

But good Lord: headshots.

I hate shooting headshots.

Headshots are your calling card. Casting directors see thousands of these and yours needs to stand out saying SOMETHING that makes them want to call you in and meet you or have you read. (And, NO - - it doesn't have to scream "look at my big boobs" or "I am the prettiest or sexiest one out there"). Que va. They can say, "I'm cool" or 'quirky' or 'intelligent' or 'mysterious' -- they just need to say SOMETHING.

Think about it. Hollywood, especially in commercials -which is what I have the best experience and personality for - - has a need for ALL types. That means not just young, pretty and plastic - although certainly it needs that, too. It also needs 'normal' folk, all ethnicities and all ages. This is great for me - as I am ethnically ambiguous and can play a large age range still.

So...pictures. Now, throughout the years I have really learned to model in front of a camera. I can say it - this big-eyed, curvy, 5'9, 37 year old who started modeling at the ancient age of 26 - can pull off editorial and commercial pictures.

BUT that is modeling.

THIS is about acting headshots.

It's a horse of a different color, my kiddies ;)

My entire career casting directors and agents have called me in and looked me in real life and commented, "Your pics are not good enough" or "They don't do you justice" or "you are stronger than your photos". Ugh. And don't even get me started on my elusive smiling-with-teeth shots or having makeup artists who don't know how to apply makeup to ethnic skin or facial features. So, yeah, I saved myself some money this time around doing my own hair and makeup (curling it and then straightening it for 2 different 'looks').

Add to that I have so many looks and ages to portray that it makes it hard (and expensive$$) to have photos for each one of those portrayals. Sigh. Sometimes it's hard being a chameleon - - although the more categories I can portray arguably will bring me more work, it feels like I have a thumb in too many pies, as the old saying goes.
Alas, here are 3 of my Top 10 photos from my recent shoot. Now with digital cameras being used, I had oh, about 300 shots to choose from. What a headache to narrow it down. I am sick of looking at myself!! ;)

Happy Hollow-Weenies!

It's Halloween - fun fun fun for the kids!
No, I never did the dressing up as an adult thing and party - - not my thing. But I have had costume modeling jobs throughout the years - - and of course, many, many theater productions in wonderful costumes - - most that are neatly labeled and posted in my numerous (yes!) photo albums.


But here are some jobs/costumes that were taken digitally and thus are publishable here. Trick or Treat!

Speaking of Brides..

On September 21, I was fortunate-enough to model for the prestigious, stunning wedding couture designer Ines Di Santo of Argentina.

I first worked with her last February, I believe - both times modeling for shows put on by boutique M Bride (thanks, Michele!!) in La Jolla who is the only San Diego location that sells her high-end gowns.

I found another wedding blog with wonderful pictures and a write-up that said it all and to save me time since I am so back-blogged I am going to post it.

Thank you and credits to "Bellz and Whistlez" by Janissa M. - -



What better way to start my day at the office by walking into the designated green room where swag bag assembly takes over the boardroom table, models are getting hair and makeup done, stylists scurrying, and accessories, footwear, and jewelry are amongst the piles of organized mess. Like a strong magnetic force, the corner of the room pulls me against my will, and then I find myself surrounded by racks of exquisite haute couture bridal gowns. This must be my heaven ;-). I wish I had my camera to photograph close ups of the meticulous detailing and impeccable craftsmanship. I just could not resist touching and admiring each and every single dress.


For the third year in a row, M Bride of La Jolla hosted their annual fashion show and bridal event at IVY Hotel. Featuring the latest collection by internationally renowned Ines Di Santo, her incredible designs were complemented by the décor done by Kathy Wright & Co. As one of the most anticipated events of the year, the show has gotten bigger and better over time. Animal printed linens, exotic centerpieces, gigantic floral arrangements accented by peacock feathers, all set on IVY’s rooftop during sunset created a fashion forward ambiance. With clear skies and the most killer views of Downtown San Diego, it was a perfect backdrop for what was promised to be an interesting show. With their graceful strides, the models made their way through the crowd as guests were taken by surprise by unexpected escorts. Literally speaking, “golden grooms” escorted the blushing brides. Painted in gold with tribal symbols, donning nothing more than a cheetah printed loincloth, and barefooted, these walking statues split everyone’s attention between their six-packs and the gorgeous gowns.I loved how the models were interactive. They struck poses for me, took photos with guests, answered questions and never allowed for a dull moment. Ms. Di Santo made a personal appearance and both her and her daughter, Veronica, joined this special cocktail reception. Unfortunately, I could not snap a photo of Ms. Di Santo as it’s hotel policy for us employees. But it was a spectacular event indeed, and I hope that you will join me next year!

Thank you!

Thank you, all - family and friends - for the wonderful outpouring of congratulations for Patrick and I in the last week. I never really thought I'd use and feel the word, "Happy" - - but, I am happy. I am so happy to be Patrick's wife.

God is great!

Below are slideshow pics taken a week after our wedding at my sweet sister, Sylvia's house in Kensington where they made a small family gathering into an impromptu toast and celebration for us.
Also, thanks to my biggest sister, Ceci and Joe for sending us the lovely flowers and to my sweet niece, Ari, who lent me a bridal veil for me to wear - - were they determined to make me a traditional bride after all?? hahahha

All the little girls were vying for my attention and to sit next to me since it was my 'special day'. It was a lovely afternoon with lot of love in the air.

Thank you, again - you are all appreciated..

Grazie, amici, - gracias a todos - son apreciados!

Click below!

Merritt Wedding Toast

Birthday Shout Out: KEE-WAH

Married into this blessed family got me a daughter AND her blessed(??) Chihuahua - -

Today is her eleventh birthday and we are taking her to Disneyland where we are taking full-advantage of her getting in for free for her bday (and at $72 tickets a pop you understand that can't be passed up hehhehe!)

The above is a picture of my sweet Ciara-Bear on her 7th birthday (her age when I met her) - - a far cry from now.. wait! I think I hear the strains of Barbra Streisands "The Way We Where" playing in the distance..

This is her precocious pup, "Petite"... undoubtedly thinking if she poses as Minnie Mouse she can come along with us today and be carried about the Park...(but like I said, 'at $72 a pop'....

*E* is for Eloping

Tis true! Tis True! We eloped and made it official!!

I am now a "Mrs.", "Missus", "Ma'am". I am officially NO longer an "old maid", "spinster" or "crazy Cat-lady" - - okay, okay - my friends say I still hold on to that last moniker.

Back from Ireland I found myself with a lot on my plate dealing with my back injury, working overtime, my horrible boss.. I wished we had been able to come back legally married from Ireland but it wasn't legal yet. We had to still do a civil ceremony in the States. And I was stressed out picking the date for our ceremony here.

Ugh. Even Patrick was pressuring me for it.

The Truth was: I just wanted to be married to this man. Now. And so did he. But I was dragging my feet dealing with my physical pain and my awful boss. Also, I was trying to plan around some VIPs in my life who are getting married themselves or having babies.

I was...in a word: overwhelmed.

And then, I woke up 2 Wednesday mornings ago and told Patrick, "Let's just go to Vegas this weekend. I cannot wait a few more months."

"Absolutely," was his game answer.

And that was that.

We didn't tell anyone, until the drive up. Then the happy/teary phone calls were made (stay tuned for the video log to be uploaded on here). Ahhhhh... I love my family very much. And I remain grateful for their support and patience at their youngest sister and daughter being unconventional enough to not want the traditional wedding with a white bridal gown and all that lovely stuff that goes with it.

Does my immediate family probably feel that they missed out not being there? Lamentably, yes. But those who know me know it was never about the bridal gown and flowers and hotel for me. I would have married Patrick anywhere just as long as I came home that weekend with the pride and humility of being his wife and partner.

Just for kicks tidbits: I had told my mom and my Aunty Nora at breakfast the day after my first date with Patrick 3.5 years ago that I was going to marry him. (My mom almost keeled over hehehe). But I was right. Hahahah, mama, I was right!

Also, it just tickles me that of course, I would marry someone from another country/continent - - I have been enamored of foreign people, lands and languages since a child and am a self-described 'Europhile'. Sigh - it is just so fitting. And I can't WAIT to get my Euro passport!! Whew hew!!

What a wonderful year for my family and friends - babies, weddings, world travels and more! We are truly and so magnificently blessed :)

Cheers to my dedicated new husband, Patrick. I love you with all the pain and beauty that makes up my soul.

And finally: I am so grateful to God. So humbled...


Editor's Note ** - - And, yes, now that I am legally wed, and have had the Catholic ceremony in Ireland - all the pressure is off and we will be having the Big Reception soon - are you kidding me???? I ain't no 'Spring Chicken' but I have always known how to host a great party!!

Click below for Vegas slideshow:

Eloping in Las Vegas

Tummy-ache at Waterworks, Ireland

Unfortunately, throughout this Ireland trip I had a badly-sprained back that kept me in excruciating pain. Even though I hate them, I had 4 different prescription drugs I was on - which, incidentally, I had just thrown up right before this video - heheheh you can see I am pale and green - but what a trooper, eh??? he he he

Ireland Summer 2009

Yes, I am back-logged - - or shall I say 'back-blogged' on here. We've been having technical difficulties at home and very busy so I am barely getting up my Ireland 2009 pics (and more) on here!

Ireland this year was vastly different than my first trip there in May of 2007. This time around, we had P's daughter Ciara with us which kept us home-bound a lot more than our last trip (see previous blogs by scrolling through year 2007). Also, the 2 biggest reasons for this trip was 1). to visit and spend time with Patrick's aging 84 year-old mum and 2) to have a small Catholic Wedding blessing ceremony there that his parents could partake in as Patrick's mom won't be able to travel to the USA for our bigger ceremony later this year. Of course it was the wettest summer in decades. So wet that Patrick's folks commented that even Father (the priest) was in a grumpy and blue mood due to all the rain.

Finally, I had sprained my back badly the week before at work and was in intense pain - the flight over almost killed me sitting cramped up for hours. So, I was the entire time doped up on muscle relaxers and painkillers - not that it stopped me from doing any activity when possible(!)

Thus we spent the majority of time at their beautiful home in Warrenpoint, shooting photography and taking long, long serene walks around town, through P's old neighborhoods and where he road his Arabian pony. I loved the stories as I am an avid story-listener as much as a story-teller myself :)
Ciara had more of a blast than any of us. She goes every year there and is a superstar of sorts, being from America. She commented to me, "it's the few times she is really the coolest kid there" - as the children are enamoured of her accent, clothes, her dancing, etc etc. Also, it is relatively safe there so she can just go out and play in the park and walk into the town for an ice cream with the kids until dark - sadly, she can't do that here in San Diego. It's wonderful to see her enjoy her freedom and independence there.

Lastly I wish to point out for my family that it was hard not having them present for the Catholic Blessing - - although I am very grateful to have done it there for P's mother. She held my hand through the prayers and I felt (of COURSE) the tears of happiness and gratefulness welling up in my big eyes and then plop! fall down onto my silk skirt. After all was done she waved my hand in hers, scolding me in her brogue, "You're a big Softie, Elsa -- that's what you are!"

Click below on the slideshow for more!

Ireland09

Lucky 21s in Vegas

I came home officially Mrs. Patrick Merritt after we decided to elope this weekend in Las Vegas. Stay tuned for my youtube blogs and pictures documenting the adventure....

Best Wishes to all!

Blessed

Taken after our Catholic blessing with the Cannon Priest, Warrenpoint, Northern Ireland... more to come!

Sitting Ducks, Northern Ireland

A gorgeous early summer morning at the stunning Silent Valley, County Down, Northern Ireland... August 2009

A Walk Through Irish Neighborhoods

Taking a walk through the neighborhood, Clonallon Road, Warrenpoint, County Down.

Back to Ireland

 

We are leaving first thing tomorrow for my 2nd trip to Ireland. Sure wish I was coming back married - hahaha - ahhhh soon, E, soon -- I am so blessed....

"This Magic Moment"

 

It was a very windy afternoon at La Jolla Cove. The previous day was Patrick's birthday and since I had worked 2 jobs back-to-back it had made it all but impossible for me to celebrate his special day until the day after - August 6.

I had decided to take him to dinner in La Jolla at Roppongi - but first we wanted to take a walk and take pictures - the norm for us. Nature and pictures.

I love a good sunset, any sunset actually. Even on this strangely windy afternoon. Kicking off my heels for some flipflops and a jacket we walked along the coastline eventually stopping at the overlook shelter by the seals. I've always loved that spot - the waves seem to crash even more there. I've been there so many times and always loved it - anytime of day, anytime of year.

Now even moreso...

Patrick set up my Canon camera to selftimer on my tripod so we can take some pics together in the humid wind. After we took a few with my hair all over the place and laughing impromptly, he then hugged me and with my arms still wrapped around his neck I felt him fish in his pocket - - I felt the tears well up as I realized what he was doing - - "You know I love you very much, baby" - he started - - I couldn't lift my head but kept my face buried the whole time in his neck. "And I am very happy, will you marry me, Elsa?" I still couldn't lift my face up but nodded 'yes' into his neck. He laughed and asked me, "is that a 'yes'?" I could only nod my head into his shoulder.

I knew better to stand in his way this time.

He knew me. And knew exactly how to do it. He knew what ring to get me - - dainty, clean and perfect on my tiny child hands. He knew how much more it'd mean to me to propose out in Nature, at my favorite time of day.. and by the sea that he loves so much himself.

Alas ring on hand.

Trip to Ireland in a few days.

The only question remaining is shall I bother using a hyphen on my last name with his?

God is Great!

click on slideshow below!

Engagement - August 6, 2009

I wish I could say it's a 'Gag Reel'..

...but it's not. HAHAHHAHA

I am very self-deprecating - gives me some of my charm and sense of humour.. so I thought I'd post this.

I just found a video of myself on youtube that my San Diego modeling agency posted recently of me. I am not thrilled about it. It was for a specific convention client coming into town - and they requested the spokesmodels they liked to be put on film. That said, my agency decided to post it just as a general tape of me for other prospective spokesmodeling clients.

I don't agree with their using this tape as a general audition tape. I obviously had to tone down my spontaneity that I am known for in my commercial acting and modeling for this specific conservative client. Ahhh, well - - - -

Watch the better video of Terrence, my actor friend who really got to "sell" himself in his acting, personality, even doing a runway walk at the end - - much more entertaining! (And why the heck did HE get music in HIS background??)

Published!

What a gas: one of my photos I shot last Thanksgiving in Maui was asked to be published in an online travel guide "Schmap" for the Maui/Molokai issue.

The photo is alright - nothing great or compared to the shots Patrick captured. It wasn't even taken with the Canon camera I have now - just with my pocket-sized Pentax P had gifted me on our first trip ever (Oahu, 3 summers ago).

Here is a widget for it - - let's see if it works - I do completely agree with the author that this is a must-do activity in Maui - the drive to Hana is fabulous, with many picture-taking opportunities - a nature, plant and green-lovers' delight!

Happy 4th of July!!

From 4th of July 2 years ago at my Uncle Alex' house - - happy to report that everything and nothing has changed here - - :)

San Diego Yacht Club

I love being outdoors. If one hasn't noticed.

In early June my dear friend, Jaimie, invited me to Wednesday night sailing with him and friends. I, of course, said 'yes'.

I've gone sailing before. My brother, Gabriel, is a sailor. Not by profession hahaha. But he knows how to sail boats up to 40 feet or more - I cannot recall. We have had some nice times out with him, family or friends throughout the years.

I also used to learn back as a kid to sail - waaayyy back when one Summer in 4-H club.

Well, what J failed to tell me was that every Wednesday are the SD Yacht Club RACES (!) This was no pleasure sunset cruise - but an actual RACE. I am not against pulling my weight and know basics about rigging and tacking but man, there was pressure due to its being a competition.

I brought my camera and got a few shots, but really..they just put me to work onboard. HA ha/

Good times. Thanks, J :)

Click on slideshow below to see my beautiful pics!

Sailing Sunsets

Sunset Drama

Earlier this month I had driven out to the desert to 'get away' 2 weekends in a row. I have been working so much, even Saturdays - - that to get away after work even though for only about 24 hours - was so good for me.

I actually love long drives out in Nature - the first weekend I saw the amazing desert valley sunsets and revelled in it. It is my favorite time of day - going back to as a kid riding my Arabian horse and staying out as long as possible before having to return home at dark. I love that magical transition from day to night. Always have, always will.

The following weekend I did not fail to bring my camera. Sitting on the passenger seat next to me on the way home I pulled over to shoot and then simply breathe in the sky.

I followed the lowering sunset as long as possible in my car that Sunday...eventually losing my race with it as it disappeared quietly behind the mountain range.... Beautiful. Alone and basking in that kind of glory of Mother's Nature utterly feeds my soul...

click on slideshow below -

Desert Valley Sunsets

Another Night at The Casbah

Click on Slideshow below!

Manual Scan Gig

Last Friday, once again, brother Morgan drummed for the 80s pop band, Manual Scan. Fun, danceable, driving music - all their songs are 2.5 minutes - making them fun and quick, to the point - Jaimie and I noted watching Morgan tear it up on the drums that he must play with them because with such quick songs their is hardly any just him keeping the beat steady - instead he really gets to work it out and show off - really mad skills - awesome to watch!

Flight of the Conchords Unplugged

My boyfriends Brett and Jemaine (no 'r' - he isn't African-American) AKA known as the Kiwi duo "The Flight of the Conchords" came to visit and play for me in San Diego tonite at UCSD.

I decided to allow a few hundred of my other friends and a few hundred more of THEIR friends to fill up the Rimac Arena - you know, just so my boyfriends would feel the love even more.

I have written about these boys before. Patrick and I had discovered them on HBO and instantly became fans. (see my previous blog about them here)

Quirky, handsome, deadpan humour - these boys are so funny it hurt. But as good as they are comically playing off each other, and with such an intelligent wit -that is so sexy to me - so much more than most stand up comediennes - I also want to point out that they really are pretty darn good musicians. Playing several different instruments and singing - Jemaine, especially - with his natural bass low speaking voice can sing all the way to a high falsetto range that is so good and believable it's funny. Think Prince - Prince does that too. (But he black).

Opening with "Too many dicks on the dance floor" the crowd went crazy - - and ending with me and several others yelling in request the Bowie song - the night was fantastic and well-worth it.

Cheers, boys -

I leave the rest of you with their show-stopping "Sugar Lumps" much different played acoustically in concert - but you catch their drift. The boys lost it on stage - going nuts, jumping into the crowd, and pointing and gyrating to their sugarlumps - some woman lost it and took her top off exposing herself and running to Brett onstage - - (er umm.. she was one of my friends' friends)... ;P

Brother Gabe's Bday shout-out!

Today is my big brother's 43rd bday - - (as well as my sweet nephew, Isaiah) - love to both of them - - here is a funny short video I found of Gabe fooling around with the camera when he had lost his voice - but is CLEARLY stating to his adoring nephews and nieces, "Tio Gabe is #1" - - priceless!

Dove Street years

I've got to get rid of old folders containing pics on my laptop as my new camera takes us so much space with it's large megapixel format. So, I am posting onto picassa web album old pics from another time in my life.

Ha ha ha - knock yourselves out - it's the Past, not the Present - and I always have chosen to remember the good memories :)

Click on slideshow below:
table style="width:194px;">Dove St. years

MEXX band

MEXX AKA "The Mario Escovedo Experience" plays my fave Bar Pink in North Park on Cinco De Mayo. Just down the street from my pad, I reach for my camera and saunter over after my modeling gig. Click on slideshow below and check out the many facial expressions of Chuck - hehehe

5deMayo

I90 Band

Chuck's 90s grunge band, Interstate 90 (I90) played in April at the SurfnSaddle in Solana Beach. I was coming from a party and had my new camera in the car, took it out spontaneously and voila - my first live band, low-light shoot -

click below for slideshow:

I90