A Week’s Journey

This week was a journey.  It was a journey filled with many emotions.  Let’s just cut to the chase, shall we?  So what is the latest on my artistic pursuit of creative rebellion?  Well, lets see I started film class last week at Art Sake Studio.  Check it out at http://www.art-sake.com/art-sake.com/Home.html.  The class rocks and I already feel like I am learning more than I could imagine from one class.  The class is inspired by one of my favorite author’s Julia Cameron (author of book ” The Artist Way”).  This class encourages its patrons to attend as many auditions as possible in order to unleash the inner artist and to encourage personal growth.  So this Saturday, I went to Full Sail University’s open casting call for local films.  I was expecting to audition for two movies.  However; when I arrived there was a long table set up with about six creative projects including video game auditions.  There was a moment of panic followed by sheer excitement.  I went down the aisle and signed up for each casting available.  There I sat with five clipboards filled with information about each casting, followed by sides.  “Sides”  refers to the specific set of lines from the script of an acting project that your child (or you) must learn prior to an audition.  It took some time to organize all the paperwork, sign the releases and remember which “Sides” belonged to the appropriate paperwork.  I thought,  ”If I can figure out how to organize this mess, it’s half the battle.”

I highly recommend auditioning at Full Sail.  The staff was very friendly and the casting directors were also friendly, approachable, and eager to get the best shot.  The directors were professional and provided feedback.  Check out Full Sail’s site at http://www.myspace.com/fullsailcasting.  I was there from 3 pm until 6:30 pm auditioning for five projects.  It was a long wait but worth it.  Why? Because I left with increased confidence.  I felt great about the performances I gave and the courage it took to show up.  So I encourage you to do the same.  Find the courage within to do something you’ve always wanted to do and do it, without question.

Film business has taken the driver’s seat this week.  So last night I changed it up by meeting with a friend and co-writer to solidify our song and to make arrangements to record in the upcoming week.  Cannot wait to share with you!  Mostly, I am feeling very grateful for the support of my husband and family which allows me to go on these auditions.  Our daughter Olivia Daisy always inspires and her smile pushes me onward.

It’s been a week’s journey.  It feels like this is really happening.  That I am becoming the artist I always wanted to be.

Live. Love. Create.

Kimberly

Day 49

Today was a stellar day! I had an audition today for “Liberte Yogurt” Commercial.  Right now I am in Tampa, Florida at local Starbucks waiting to visit with my girlfriend.  The drive wasn’t so bad because I listened to an audio CD in the called “Super Brain: Unleashing the Explosive Power of Your Mind to Maximize Health, Happiness, and Spiritual Well-Being.” by Rudolph E. Tanzi, Deepak Chopra.  I must admit that after the first half of this CD, I questioned if I could continue listening to a book on CD.  Why?  Because music usually perks me up on long rides and I was already recouping from lack of sleep (previous night).  However, the author kept me tuned in detailing innovative health information regarding the unlimited potential of our brains.  One point that was discussed repetitively was that we have power over our brains.  Our brains do not control us unless we allow it to do so.  In other words, we can all tap into unlimited potential and heal our mind, bodies and soul.

The only thing that is missing right now is Olivia. We played this morning before she went to school. However, it never seems enough as I love her to pieces.  And of course any couples time (date nights) we can get, we take.  We cherish each and every moment we spend together as a couple and as a family.  I’m feeling really grateful for family and for opportunities that continue to arise.  This career transition happened for a reason.  I’m very excited of what is ahead!

Be Well,

Kimberly

Day 47: 100 posts!!!!

Day 46 marked 100 posts!! WOO HOO!

Highlights for today:

* Preparing for commercial audition which will occur on Monday.

* Being a mommy and all the joys that come with this role!

*  My husband and I decided to start co-writing.  Our first co writing session looked like this.

“Okay lets begin our co writing.” To which he replied, ” Okay. I am so tired.”

I then said, “Alright, do you want to just brainstorm ideas?”  He replied “Sure.”

We wrote down three ideas and began rubbing our eyes with sheer exhaustion.

I laughed and said, “Okay that’s a great first session! Time to go to sleep.”

We are definitely parents.

Goodnight,

Kimberly

Day 43

The day after yesterday.  I just felt like saying that, not sure why.  Today is day 43 and I am going strong!  I’m feeling ambitious about creating the life I desire.  Life is good.

Highlights for today:

* I managed to cook three meals this morning while watching my baby girl play.  Not sure how it happened but it did.  I prefer to cook several meals at once, freezing a few; rather than cooking each day.

* Olivia was a hands full today.  She kept me guessing (literally).  All day I asked her “What’s wrong?”, “What do you want?” “Tell mommy, what do you want?” “Do you want this?”  ”Do you want that?”

And Olivia’s response:  No (in the sweetest voice) followed by a sobbing cry (not so sweet).  It didn’t seem possible to appease her today.  Poor baby, she just wants to communicate and is so frustrated with me for not understanding her.

* I managed to go clothes/shoe shopping for Olivia this afternoon.  This was no small feat.  And man, were they right about that saying “It takes a village to raise a child.”  I was wishing a village came with me shopping today.  Liv gave me a run for my money this afternoon.  But mommy kept her cool, gave Liv many kisses and managed to complete the shopping trip.  What helped?  Snacks, smiles, hugs, toys (and when I say toys, that means anything that is kid friendly, even a cup or straw will do).

Today was all about productivity because tomorrow is my “artist date”.  Artist date is just a fancy word that means we “take ourselves on a date by doing what we love, creating art”.  So tommorow after my daughter goes to school; I write music, sing and seek the latest auditions for acting.  Sometimes I will do something relaxing to invoke my creative spirit to come out and play.   There is a great author named Julia Cameron who wrote a series of books geared towards artists.  Check out her books at http://juliacameronlive.com/.

Be Well and goodnight,

Kimberly

Day 41

Today was a VERY cold day in Florida.  I am so confused by Florida weather.  One day rainy, one day freezing, another day hot and then back to freaking COLD.  You’d think I would be use to it, since I am a native to Florida, but I am not.  Oh well.  I could put a positive spin on this and say that the unpredictable weather always keeps us guessing.  As if the weather is an exciting surprise.  But the truth is, I am not amused.  Mostly, because my wardrobe goes in and out of boxes regularly, not knowing what to expect next.

Okay lets see, highlights for today.

* Music highlight: Worked more on latest song, in which I am co writing.  Very excited about this!! I will be meeting up with co writer tomorrow evening to continue our edits.  Can’t wait!

* I went to an audition for a Full Sail movie.  The only catch is NO ONE WAS THERE.  So there was no audition for me.  I am still puzzled by this. But I did leave the casting department a message.  I will try again.

*  Enjoyed a belated, but not forgotten, Valentines day dinner and movie with my husband.  We watched a movie called ” Silver Linings Playbook” directed by David O. Russell.   One of my favorite actors is Bradley Cooper (stars in this film) .  Our dinner at Thai Singh was fantastic.  ”Late night noodles” has always been our favorite dish there.  Delicious!!! (Thanks for babysitting mom and dad!)

Very sleepy so goodnight…

Kimberly

Day 31 Clarity

Day 31, I am more clear on how to attain my dreams.  Ironically, it is the one month anniversary of my “daily” blogging.  And I feel that in one month, so much has happened.  But most importantly I have found clarity.  You see for so long, since practically birth, I have only wanted to do one thing career wise.  What, you ask?  Or you may not be asking, but I will tell you anyways.  All I ever wanted was to perform.  Why? Because I love creating something and seeing it blossom into art form.  So whether I am acting, writing or singing; I truly enjoy the process of creating and being a part of a creative project.  It gives me a sense of pride and accomplishment.

I don’t feel like discussing highlights of this day, as I have in previous blogs.  Instead today, I just want to share my emotions and the clarity that has come in 31 days.  In the creative arts fields, persistence is key.  Sometimes “making it” in the industry is about who you know and/or random circumstances.   But it is also about belief in oneself.  Passion, drive and persistence are key factors.

Today I traveled to Tampa for an audition for a Disney commercial.  It was close to two hours in driving there and two hours driving back.  I was thankful that my mom came along to support my ambition and to watch Olivia.  What people don’t see is the “behind the scenes” in preparing for an audition.  Memorizing lines, practice time, prepping one’s outfit, following director instructions, bringing headshot/resume, time management (travel time, babysitting) are just a few of the tasks involved in preparation.  You go to an audition that usually lasts ten minutes (commercials) once in front of the director.  With that being said, when you love what you do, it’s not really work at all.  I felt great about my five minutes of fame today.  Hopeful that I will get the call back.

But let me cut to the chase.  As artists, the road is often bumpy.  The road can also lead you in many directions.  It is easy to lose sight of why you began creating in the first place.  And it is easy to lose faith in oneself.  There is constant rejection and a lot of competition.  There are fears as with any career.  These fears become questions like “Am I good enough?”, “Will I make enough money?” ,”Will I stumble on my words? “, “What if I make a mistake?”, “Will I succeed?”  The fears can amount and consume you.  But what I say today is this- I will do whatever it takes (except for selling my soul) to create a path that balances life as a mother and career woman.

What comes before Fear?  Anxiety.  During those anxious moments, many people question their chosen path.  Anxiety can lead to impulsive decisions.  So what I am telling myself today is “Fear not, trust in the path chosen for me.  Do not settle for second best.  Continue to pursue your dreams, regardless of the challenges presented.  Create a life I am proud of which includes staying true to family values and personal values.”

And mostly, I am feeling grateful.  Thank you to blog followers, family and friends for reading my posts.  And thank you to family and friends for your constant support.  A quick shout out to artists, who are reading this blog; continue to believe in who you are and what you have to give to the world.

Goodnight,

Kimberly

Day 30

Day 30, what can I say?  You threw out small tests and I manged to pass them.  Yes, life lessons.

There were unexpected surprises and minor challenges.  Yet, I woke up and said ” Life, what do you have in store for me today? It will be a great day!”  And thankfully, it turned out to be a good day, not great, but good.  There is so much to be thankful for.

Highlights for today:

* I survived many baby tantrums.  I’m starting to get a handle on how to better manage a tantrum.  Distraction by laughing, dancing and singing tends to help Liv calm down and refocus.

*  I prepared for Disney audition, which is tomorrow.  I have never auditioned for a Disney commercial before so I am very much looking forward to it!

* I bought make up today (a light foundation, commonly used for television) and a very kind saleswoman said this to me:

” Just go be a princess on that Disney commercial and whatever you do, don’t worry.”  She continued with ” Just like a job interview, go in there and be your confident self.”  It was like she knew me and was reading my thoughts.  A real life angel.  Thank you to the kind stranger who brightened my day.  Ironically, she worked at Disney for many years.

* I am making every effort to do at least one kind gesture, out of the blue, for someone each day.  It feels really good and I believe in the law of attraction.

And with that, good night.  I really want to write more to you dear blog and bloggers; but this lady is VERY tired.  Plus I need my rest in order to magically transform into the best princess actress Disney can ask for.  LOL

Good night,

Kimberly

Day 29

Day 29, I woke up and told myself you’d be good to me, and you were. So thanks for that.

Highlights for today:

* I actually focused on cooking several meals and prepping snacks for the entire week.  It was the first time in a long time, that I could sustain great focus in the kitchen.  I cooked up a storm and it looked like one too.  You see I don’t really enjoy cooking.  I just try to convince myself that I do.  Sometimes it works.

( lasagna, peeled fruit, cut up sandwiches, and stir fried veggies).

* Another beautiful Winter Park day today! I enjoyed quality time with my niece and nephew.  Olivia loves playing with her cousins. They got to play (duck, duck, goose), a childhood favorite for me.  I think I had the most fun!

* Many thanks to Mom for putting together Olivia’s kitchen set. I think we have a chef on our hands (Mom, you are already one.  I was talking about Olivia.)

* I intended to write more today (lyrics and book writing) but there were unexpected, important phone calls and baby demands.  So I am writing my blog, which was one daily goal.  Right now preparing for Thursday’s commercial audition is much more important (After my baby of course. But she is asleep right now..shhhhhh)

And with that being said, goodnight and sweet dreaming

Kimberly

Day 28

Day 28, I am not sure what to say about you. The day was productive.  Here are the highlights from today.

* I sautéed vegetables with coconut oil, vegetable broth and basil.  This is my favorite stir fry (at least that I make).  I am following a plant-based diet.

* I had time to go grocery shopping.  My husband spent quality time with our daughter Olivia this evening so I could buy essential grocery items for the week.

* I even managed to take an uninterrupted shower (moms know what I mean by this).

* I was able to coordinate my two calendars (I cannot decide between a paper calendar and an online Macbook calendar, so I have both). The only problem is one calendar is usually missing an item from the other calendar.  So today I became more organized and in sync.

* I am auditioning for acting commercials more and more!  Another audition for Disney coming up.  Cross your finger and toes!

* I don’t need to list my daughter as a highlight , because the joy she brings is a given every day!

Be Well,

Kimberly

Today

Yesterday I asked myself “How will I dive in?” In my recent blog post, I announced the start of a journey which will require 100 percent commitment to my singing, acting and writing.  I asked myself, “How will I do it?”  Then I began to hear the response “You just will.”  I began processing this question like a counselor would do.  There is no clear-cut solution and I cannot control the outcome.  As I have said to my clients in the past “Trust the process.”  But it is so HARD to do.  And then the little voice whispers “it doesn’t have to be hard, it’s as difficult as you allow it to be.”  Yet I believe I can make choices and use free will to increase my odds of going down the “right” path.  As I continued to ponder this question, I asked my husband who was sitting in the passenger seat of our car.  I said ” How will I swim once I dive in?”  His response intrigued me.  He said, “Just plug your nose when you dive in!”  I began giggling and contemplating his words.  Then he followed his first statement with “Stay in the shallow end.”   My gut reaction was to giggle and my thoughts were ” I want to jump into the deep end of the pool.”  Hmmmm…this is a metaphor and I believe its true meaning will reveal itself.  Until then, good night and talk to you later!

Oh yeah, I had an audition this morning for a Marriott Commercial.  It was pretty cool as I got to dress in workout attire and pretended to get ready for the gym during the audition.  Not so shabby!  You never know with these types of auditions are looking for, as there is so much typecast.  I was suppose to pass for a Caucasian/Hispanic female.  Grateful for the audition. The director said at the end “Thanks for being prepared!” I appreciated the feedback.  If its meant to be it will be.  I’ve learned not to be attached to the outcome.

Kimberly

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