Xmas Pics and Video

Those of you (Heather, Heidi, etc) who are photographer types won't be surprised to hear that one of our Xmas gifts between my husband and I was a new...camera! hehehhe P is constantly upgrading, downsizing in quantity, etc etc - - we are selling my Canon Rebel and he sold the Olympus EP-1 that we shot our Vegas elopement video blogs on and we got each other the new EP-2
. Here is P trying out the video. And to my photographer-friends - - we WERE going to get the new Mark II 5D - - but decided it was just a huge price and a big camera while I am still such a beginner.... hehehe I give it a year and we will have it...



Click on Slideshow below for pics!

Christmas 2009 and Mom's 71 bday

Christmas and Mom's 71 bday - 2009

By Martinez standards - this prayer-ditty is NOTHING - - usually we sing songs, say a huge prayer, read excerpts from the Bible - - well, we DID have to do the whole Jesse Tree thing before opening gifts - - hehehhe

Happy Birthday to my momma and blessings to us all!

Christmas Eve with the Horses

E loves her horses!

Merry Christmas, Loved Ones!

So many things to be thankful for in this challenging year - - I am so blessed for my new husband - - -

 

for my health (having a lot of injuries just makes me appreciate what I DO have)

 

for my family, job and loved ones - May God Bless!

Death Valley Sand Dunes

Paddy's Got A Gun

You have to substitute 'paddy' for the Aerosmith song 'Jaime's got a Gun' - and you will hear what was in my head at the time I was shooting this - hahahah

OH YEAH - - my man brought a gun and I wasn't happy about it - until as we were driving late in the darkness to our remote destination we saw a caravan of cars blocking the dirt, bumpy road waving us down. I am NOT lying to you when we both thought it could be a trick and they can kidnap and eat us or (at the very least) keep us under the floorboards like that horrific episode with the inbred people of XFiles.

So with gun on his lap when we approached the people we found out it was a professor from Cal State Fullerton and about 30 geology students who had caravaned to the Rocks and one of the trucks on the way out dropped its carburetor, I think. (Scary). Although they were there about an hour, and we had to wait for them to repair as we couldn't pass - - they DID have a boy or two who knew about cars and were able to repair it - Most impressive!

We went along and then took out the gun another time when almost at midnight we saw a lone truck miles away slowly making its way towards us. Now, at this point WE had even arrived and travelled late on that desolate, dangerous road. To see another coming at that hour was a little curious. So out came the gun again. This time it turned out to be a group of Russians (accents and all) - E was in heaven - - led by a very knowledgeable Russian young woman who was driving the truck and stopped to chat with P and I at the fire while the others went out searching in the dark for the racing rocks and their trails. She was very cool and gave us insight that we would get moonlight around midnight - which we did. We couldn't believe that group went out there in the pitch dark with only flashlights to try and see the rocks - nearly impossible to find in the dark with so many stolen or washed away this season, not to mention you can't even do it justice seeing it with only a flashlight. I give them props for making the 2-hour journey from the main road to come out for an hour to search. But she said they had spent the last couple days hiking and seeing everything else and were leaving in the morning so this was their last chance to see the rocks so they had to come out even in the middle of the night. Whew - -that's appreciation!

So here is P the next morning - we had left the Playa and were heading slowly back to the main road and on to other sights. Kids - Don't try this at home - -

Racing Rocks - Racetrack Playa

Death Valley - the next morning

Camping in Death Valley - take 2

Camping in Death Valley - take 1

Death Valley camping/photo trip

Back in October (told you I was back-blogged) P and I went for the 2nd time (see previous blogs here) to Death Valley National Park. (and here and here.)

We love this place. There are canyons, dried up huge sea of salt, ghost towns, sand dunes, Europeans running around sun burnt (Elsa is a euro=phile) and a quaint cafe and gift shop in the middle of it all (to escape the midday heat with a good lunch or cold ice cream is welcomed).

But our favorite spot here is the Racetrack Playa. A photographer's dream - this huge, desolate flat area (the Playa) where almost magical rocks inexplicably slide across the dried surface so slowly that you can't see it happening - all the while leaving an inch-or-so deep trail and indentation... is just amazing!

Getting there is a challenge. It takes us almost another 2 hours once you turn off the paved main road in the Park. We have 4 wheel drive in P's car but still we have to be careful - to get a flat tire out there or to overheat could be a life and death situation - no cell phone coverage, hardly any other passing traffic to help you out, the intense heat during the day and cold at night plus if one did not bring enough water - there is no way we could walk back all the way to the main road.

So I always have huge respect for Mother Nature out there - it's worth the drive - - not many make it our there that far - just the hardcore campers and photographers.

Sadly, this year there weren't as many rocks out - - people disgracefully steal them. So we had to really hunt and walk far to get our pictures.

A great time - I love my road trips with my husband and feel so blessed that we have this in common.... as I tell him, "I would get in a car with our cameras and hiking boots and go ANYWHERE in nature" with him.

click on slide show below!

Death Valley 2009

Modeling Nieces

This hilarious video was later in the day to the previous video blog. Staying true to the Martinez girl tradition of playing 'dress up' my nieces took it a step further by entertaining us with a modeling show.

The show was led by the gregarious Ariela who adlibs and mugs like a pro - and her momma better know she is headed towards the Theater at the very least. My goddaughter Olivia smiles prettily and daintily the way they show the little kids to do at her dance studios. Then my stepdaughter Ciara comes out - absolutely embarrassed and self-conscious at the whole thing - - total teenager, even though she is only 11 -ahahhahah. Lastly, Ilysah trots out with a swoosh sound that would make Tyra Banks proud - - Aunty Elsa was proud of all of them - AHHAAHHHAA - This video is total blackmail when they are older by the way....

Martinez Toast to the Bride and Groom

To go along with this past blog here, my sister Sylvia hosted a lovely small (not even all my immediate family was there) gathering at her and Tim's house in Kensington. We weren't expecting any of it, the food, the toast, the flowers, my niece making me wear a bridal veil... all lovely :) Gracias, hermana de nuevo...

Elopement Video #14 - Just Married AKA Mrs. Merritt

It's Official! Just Married!!!! There is a whole lot of pride, love, and gratefulness I am feeling here.... God is Great!

Elopement Video #13 - Las Vegas Strip at Night

The Strip at night before landing - the lights were most impressive....

Elopement Video #12 -- Las Vegas @ Dusk

On the way back from the Grand Canyon Ranch we enjoy a lovely helicopter ride at dusk.... you see me at the end of the video gesture an 'okay' and 'thumbs up' sign showing my engagement ring - - it was our last evening before we were to make the committment to wed.. ;) xoxoxox

Elopement Video #11 - Sherriff George

After enjoying the stunning views of the Grand Canyon we landed at the Grand Canyon Ranch - a real, working cattle ranch that has a small area where tourists can opt to stay the night and experience a real ranch (riding, cattle, cookouts, outdoor fires, etc...you get the picture.

I loved this place and was extrememely disappointed that we would have spent 3 hours there (instead of 45 minutes) had we not had the technical difficulties with the helicopters :(

Elopement Video #10 - Grand Canyon - FINALLY

So, here we are after yet another attempt and descent (that I did NOT bother capturing on video) - - at the majestic Grand Canyon.... It is a sight to behold - - but I must admit I like walking it by foot even better and look forward to the day I hike down again to the bottom of the Canyon and touch the cool water of the Colorado River.

By the way, my sister Sylvia remarked after seeing these videos that her brother-in-law is a lawyer for aviation crashes and says that tourist helicopter cases are many due to them not keeping the 'birds' up to par, maintenance-wise.

Good thing I didn't know that going in or I may have not booked it to begin with...yikes!

Elopement Video #9 - Helicopter - TAKE 3

ohhh yeah... this is takeoff number three - you see me say it at the beginning.

And guess what??? We went right back down AGAIN as Captain Michael was of the opinion that the helicopter was just not safe and we needed a new one again.

Besides the inconvenience of it cutting into our time spent at the actual Grand Canyon - this back-and-forth bologna was doing nothing for my nerves....

Elopement Video #8 - Helicopter Ride - TAKE 2

Did I mention that I am scared of heights???

So guess what...? This is our 2nd foray into the air about a half hour later - - after dumping some fuel. You see me make the sign of the cross at one point in this video - - I think Patrick's face shows it all = = we smile nervously but then turn somber because the truth is we were thinking, "We are gonna DIE!!"

Elopement Video #7 - The Helicopter - TAKE 1

Part of our deciding to elope in Las Vegas was so that we could have one of our beloved road trips (P and I love our roadtrips) and to also take our first helicopter ride ever on a trip to the Grand Canyon.

After already having our first helicopter taken away from us after mechanical delays we finally start to go up in the air an hour after schedule. Bad thing was 3 minutes later we went straight back down..evidently someone was lying about their weight and we had more weight than the original calculated weight of the 6 passengers and captain - plus a full tank of fuel.

Elopement Video #6 - official marriage license

Back from getting our marriage license I nervously and happily show it off...the only thing left to do was to book a chapel and exchange vows and rings - - but first we decide to spend the day on a helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon.

I am in a total state of Happy Shock at this point by the way...

Elopement Video #5 - the Courthouse

Continuing the saga of Elsa and Patrick spontaneously deciding to elope in Las Vegas last September - - here we are the next morning bright and early at the Courthouse getting our paperwork done and paying for our license to marry....



I laugh when I watch this because you see my big eyes darting around nervously as I don't know what is going on, everything is hush hush - it was only us and 2 other couples there at the morning - a far cry from a Friday eve, I am told - where you see drunk people and even celebs deciding to get hitched.

The gypsy in me was starting to get nervous and excited - I mean, I am 37 years old and although a prolific monogamous and long-term relationship kind of gal, this was me taking the last steps to becoming a life partner with my best friend and lover...

Is it worth noting that I also didn't even know P was filming as I am sure it would have been frowned upon.??? ..heheheh

Elopement Video #4 - downtown Freemont Street, Las Vegas

Showered and a short nappy later (Elsa loves her cat naps) - - we step into (literally) the lights of downtown Las Vegas - otherwise known as 'The Fremont Experience'. Again, I don't like Vegas, in fact I hate it. But I hadn't been to downtown Vegas since 1998 when I flew out to audition for the national tour of "Les Miserables". There is something about walking around in the hot, dry desert air at night that puts me in a fantastic mood for people-watching and holding hands with my handsome Irish beau..

Elopement Video #3 - "Lady Luck"

P and I had decided to bunk out in downtown Las Vegas (Freemont Street) - - I hadn't been for 12 years and like it's different charm. Those of you who know me know I don't really care for the glitz of Vegas and the Strip anyway. Never have, never will. We did get a room with a jacuzzi in it, though - hhahahaha!!!

Here Patrick surveys the view, sorry to say gool ol' Lady Luck didn't smile upon him until 2 days later right before we went to the chapel... :)

Elopement Video #2 - Arriving in Vegas

after my tear-stained first video (hehehe) we arrive 5 hours later to Vegas --- you can hear how tired and hungry I was - - my blood sugar level was dropping and my energy was down.... :)

Elopement Video #1

oh, yeah--- we eloped in late September (see blog here) and it has taken me ages to get these uploaded. Mostly because in our Olympus EP-1 camera with HD video - - the files are so large - even at 30 second to 1 minute videos that I shoot - that it takes almost 2 hours to upload each one (!) Not only that, but half the time youtube is so busy that it crashes.

**Don't even get me started, Patrick has heard me grumble for 2 months now both about the crashing as well as the use of having that new camera with HD video that is almost impossible to upload - grrr (love you, honey)..

So here are some short vignettes of our impromptu roadtrip to elope in Las Vegas last September. Enjoy my gift to gab....

"We Can DO it!"

Taking the line of the famous 'Arm and Hammer' poster of a woman in the 1940s flexing her bicep triumphantly in a moment of woman's lib I write a quick note as a follow up 2 previous blog where I was called out by name and picture for modeling for the Airport Authority of San Diego and accused of having tax payer's dollars spent to hire me.
 

After contacting the bloke who wrote it (it's his own online newspaper where he can say everything he wants to because it's him publishing it) - he he he .... I clarified with him that I spoke with an Airport Authority employee who told me not only does that particular writer have a vendetta against them but that also his facts were wrong - - it's not a taxpaying organization. The revenue is accrued by charging $3.50 to every ticket that flies to and from San Diego airport. So I was paid by the organization and their decision to hire me as well as the makeup/wardrobe stylist and the photographer and his assistant, not by all of you ;)..

I was still thrown 'under the bus', so to speak - as he sheepishly replied that he used my name and pictures to prove it really was a model used, etc etc....

Just thought the general public would feel better knowing you didn't pay me...what a relief, hahaha, right?? Now get to spending that on holiday cheer!

Runway for a Black Friday

I have not once in my life participated in "Black Friday" - the busiest shopping day (the day after Thanksgiving) of the year. It took being paid and having a job to do it this year - hehehhe.

Gretchen Productions who have hired me to do a number of shows and Bridal shows throughout the past several years booked me and a few fellow models from my agency to help out with their Horton Plaza Mall show featuring clothes from various stores there.

Always an interesting time, I received some pictures from one of the mothers. Another treat - my husband surprised me showing up as well - - and shooting me in black and white film. That said - it will be ages for him to work on and get me my pics so I am putting up these ones from Akiko's mama. Thank you!

Click on slideshow below!

Black Friday Show 2009

BUSTED!!!!!

 Let me preface this by saying I have pretty much my entire life been known to be a goody-goody. And so here I am minding my own business - - eeking out for years a career in the Performing Arts: acting, singing, dancing and modeling - - when all of the sudden today I find out I am - - - BUSTED!!!

Okay, San Diego - - evidently I owe you all a HUGE apology.

In my being booked on a certain job for several hours, I evidently have swindled San Diego tax payers out of several hundred dollars.

And people are MAD about it.

Not only mad, but an article was published with proof of the accompanying photo shoot all the while lambasting my good name in BOLD LETTERS!
I feel badly but is it awful that a teeny weeny part of me also think it's hilarious?? I mean, is this going on my record? When you google me you can find the article. Will this affect future employment???

I AM SORRY, San Diego - so sorry!!!! But pick on girls doing horrible things in our community and truly draining our tax dollars - - don't get mad at me who beat out a hundred or so other models at a legitimate audition to book the job fair-and-squarely. How was I to know it wasn't on the up-and-up between those in charge and paying me (my check came through okay by the way).


I will be writing a retraction to the article soon. Not all the facts presented are correct. (I guarantee you the photographer made more than me - - as he should!) And I think it vastly unfair that mine was the only name mentioned - not the photographer, not the makeup artist, nor my agency. HAHAHAHA - just yours truly. So much for seeing 'my name in lights'. Stay tuned - - either they print up my two cents about it or the next pictures on this blog will be of me in the pokey!!

To 'scoop the poop' click below- -
http://www.voiceofsandiego.org/articles/2009/11/11/economics/837airport092909.txt

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