Monday, October 29, 2012

Not So Dandy Sandy

Well as most of you know hurricane Sandy has hit the east coast and NYC is getting a pretty big hit.  I remember last year being here during hurricane Irene and it was nothing compared to this monster!

It all began this morning... peaceful, calm, quiet.  I got up and out of bed to head to the gym before the storm struck, but an eerie feeling came over me.  The streets were deserted; a few people lingering about here and there, but definitely not Manhattan in it's usual Monday morning state.  I found where everyone had been hiding... THE GYM!  hahaha!  The place was PACKED with workout junkies just trying to get their workouts in before the big storm... but hey who am I to judge... I was there too right?

Oddly enough I get home at around noon only to find out that Battery Park had been flooded! I was so confused because it was barely drizzling outside!  Then I found out that one of the tides had rolled in.

Here's the thing... we only live one avenue away from the east river so Grant, Matt and I decided to embark on a little adventure.  We were bored, what do you expect?  You only get to see these things once in a lifetime... if that.  We had a good time, but man it was windy!  We took photos and videos (posted below) and just goofed around a bit before things started getting too serious.

It wasn't till around 7pm that everything started getting bad.  The wind got so bad that our roof door broke and will not shut, so now all night we have to listen to it bang open and close due to the wind.  We also heard things falling outside, and car alarms going off.  I swear you would think it's armageddon out there.

All in all, it's still very windy out there! I know that most of manhattan has lost it's power, thankfully the upper east side has not, and I know many parts are flooded.  I pray things go back to normal tomorrow and that the sound of what is going on out there is much worse than the damage that is being done.

Meanwhile I'm trying to stay on track with eating healthy.  It's difficult seeing all of the facebook statuses out there about baking during the hurricane and munching on halloween treats.  It makes me want to make bad decisions when it comes to eating, but luckily I've stayed on track (lost 15 pounds).  Once this wedding hits and I'm home for a short while I can give myself a little break and indulge.

In the meantime I must pack and prepare for my brother's upcoming wedding this Saturday.  I pray that our flights still go out on Wednesday and Thursday.  Please keep us in your prayers for a safe return back to Minnesota.

And please keep all of the people, homes and animals along the whole east coast in your prayers.

*HUG!*
Honey


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Thursday, August 23, 2012

I've Missed You!!!


May I first start off by saying "Hello everyone! I have missed you!"

I have finally gotten back into the groove of things after a 3 month run at the American Music Theatre, final callbacks for a TV show on the CW Network, and working with the Broadway Dreams Foundation.  But we'll get into all of that a little later.

Before I tell you all about what has been happenening in my life I wanted to ask you all to please take a look at my YOUTUBE channel.  There have been some recent additions to my videos page and I would love for you to take a listen!  My two most current videos are "Who You Are" and "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together". Be sure to check them out!

Also, while we're on the subject of websites, I have also recently updated HoneyRibar.com!  New videos, photos, and information are all posted there.  And be sure to follow me on Twitter @HoneyRibar as well!

Well... I have to admit that getting back into the groove of things hasn't been easy.  I've literally been going to auditions every day, waking up as early as possible, and not being seen for a single thing.  It's difficult being non-equity in Manhattan.  Oh well... I have to keep my hopes high and keep praying for the right opportunity to come along.

Country Classics finished wonderfully!  Everyone who came to see the show claimed that it was the best Revue that the theatre has ever put on, which I was very happy to hear.  

After finishing Country Classics, I was immediately thrown into the next project which was a television show on the CW Network called "The Next".  I was flown out to Los Angeles for a quick 24 hour callback and it was a dream come true!  I woke up at 3am to catch a 5:30 flight from Newark to Burbank.  As soon as my flight landed I was picked up and brought to the hotel (I got my own room and it was huge!!!)  After that I had a meeting with wardrobe and was measured and interviewed about "my style" and what I would like to be perceived as.  After getting all my measurements, they sent me off to lunch and gave me some time to get prepared for band rehearsal.  Once I was picked up to go to rehearsal I literally had a ball of excitement bunching up in my stomach!  I thought I would have been more nervous, but I was just ready to get up and sing!  I met the group, the producers and the sound monitor and everyone (to say the least) was incredibly sweet.

The song I was given to learn was grammy award winning song "Mean" by Taylor Swift.  I wasn't so thrilled about the song right off the bat, but after I gave it my own style, I seriously was obsessed with the song!  The band and I immediately clicked!  We all had similar styles of what we wanted the song to sound like and we all just had a blast rocking out and enjoying what we love to do. And did I mention that they were all incredibly talented?!

After band rehearsal they thanked me, and all gave me the biggest hugs a person could get.  I went back to the hotel that night with a big smile on my face and a comfy pillow under my head.  I woke up bright and early the next morning to head back to New York and get back to work.  

Sadly I didn't get the show, but I am hopeful the next big thing will come along soon (at least I hope so).

After being down for about a week I thankfully had my next adventure to take my mind off of it.  Well... it ended up being more than just "something to take my mind off of".  The Broadway Dreams Foundation is seriously one of thee most creative, loving and inspiring environments I have ever been in.  Annette (the founder) and the whole creative team are people I want to surround myself with for the rest of my life.  Talk about talent!  I had the pleasure of working with big Broadway names and even people on television (cough... "So You Think You Can Dance" choreographer... cough).  

Broadway Dreams gives people who are not yet living the Broadway Dream the opportunity to work with those who are!  They guide you and direct you in the way a Broadway Director would.  They coach you and instruct you to be the best that you can be, all while working on their own parts within the show that is put on at the end of the week intensive.

If you don't know what BDF is, please be sure to check it out at http://www.mybroadwaydreams.com.

So as you can all see, things have been quite crazy lately!  I have been in and out of the apartment and I finally just moved back in.  Literally I just spent all night cleaning the apartment (it was a mess!)

I am having a friend stay with me next week, then immediately following her are my parents!  I am excited for these next few weeks to come and I can only hope and pray that everything is wonderful in all of your lives as well.

I promise to write more frequently now that I am back home.  I'll let you know how everything goes.  Until then... have a wonderful and blessed weekend.

*HUG!*
Honey



Wednesday, May 23, 2012

La Vie Boheme

Good morning everyone! The week is already half way over! Woohoo!

I just thought I'd write to you all since again... it's been a while.  Last time I wrote I was on a train coming back from New York.  Since then I have been back and forth a few times between shows.  It was so nice seeing Grant and Matt so much and getting a few things done in the city.  I had a big audition for a new TV show airing in the summer so we will see how that goes... not going to lie though I'm still thinking about what would have happened with DUETS.  Jennifer Nettles would have been a joy to work with!

During the audition/interview I had this weekend however we talked a lot about you all!  One of the things they asked me was to talk about my supporters.  I told them how I can sing whatever my heart feels in the moment (whether it's a hard rock song like Evanessance or a Broadway song like "I Can't Say No") and you all still support me and follow my work, which is so amazing!  We talked about how my life is different in Minnesota than New York or Pennsylvania.  I told them that when I'm in PA I'm a country singer, when I'm in New York I seem to be more of a pop/rock girl, and oddly when I'm in Minnesota I'm a Broadway girl.  They laughed because who would think that it would've turned out that way?  One would think... PA- Pop/Rock, MN- Country, and NY- Broadway.  I think that it's all mixed up this way because when I'm away from one place I like to take it with me through song (and I'm in a country show in PA haha). But no really... when I'm in MN I miss NY, when I'm in PA I miss MN, ect.  I sing what I feel and they seemed to love that answer because that's not what your average performer is... they all have a genre.  We'll how it all goes though =) (Hands FOLDED!)

While I was out in New York this past weekend it was absolutely gorgeous, accept for Monday it rained cats and dogs all day long!  Stupid me... I was wearing sandals.  At the finish of my busy day I think I must have slipped or moved my foot the wrong way because I started feeling this awful pain in my right foot.  Well it turns out I must have pulled or bruised something!  I have been off it as much as possible, trying to ice it on and off, but it's difficult when you have a show to perform.  It is feeling much better today and I think by the end of he week I should be able to dance on it again.  AMT had to modify some of the dance numbers and my parts within them just for these few days while I watch over it... they are incredibly accommodating!

Most of my time lately though has been running back and forth to NY, auditions, and shows.  I really need to record a video sometime soon but I do have a video from back in high school going up soon! As soon as I post it you all will be the first to know!  I will also get a video up of a short song in the show I am currently in!

Hope you all have a wonderful rest of the week! Talk to you all soon!

*HUG!*
Honey

Ps. I'm trying to finally hit 10,000 views on these videos so if you haven't seen them yet or want to re-watch them please do!  I always appreciate your support and love!  xoxo


Sunday, May 13, 2012

Hello & Happy Mother's Day!

Hi everyone! Well I'm on a train headed back to Pennsylvania and I thought I would write a little!

First off... Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there! Thank you for everything you do in this world. My mom especially!  Thank you for always being so supportive of me, my decisions and my dreams.  I couldn't do any of it without you there cheering me on like you always do!  I don't need a holiday to tell you these things... I hope I tell you enough already.  I love you so incredibly much!

********

So much to fill you all in on!... I moved to Lancaster, PA for a few months doing the show 'Country Classics', a country music review.  Things are going great so far! My time here in Lancaster is already half way done and then I will either be on to my next project, or headed back to NYC... we'll see where I am taken!

The show is SUPER FUN! High energy, amazing voices and great music!  Everyone I talk to after the show keeps saying how this is one of the best shows they have ever seen at American Music Theatre, which makes me feel so honored to be a part of it! Just being able to be on the stage again, doing what I love to do is enough!  I've actually been told that I sound like a legit country singer, which is pretty fun to ear considering I grew up in the north... not the south! Nice to know I can mold my voice to fit the setting.  Well... my singing voice... everyone always makes fun of my Minnesotan accent.  It's ok... I embrace it 'dontcha know'. ;-)

Not going to lie though... it's been extremely difficult being away from New York... well... Matt and Grant to be more specific.  Matt actually came out to PA and saw the show twice last weekend.  It was hard saying goodbye so I decided to make a surprise visit home this weekend before our show today.  We had such a wonderful weekend! Relaxed, tanned, ate out, walked around, and saw 'The Avengers' (which I LOVED!)  All in all it was a fabulous weekend!

Luckily enough, the fun doesn't have to end there because one of my friends in the show is awesome enough to let me ride back with her again tomorrow! Then I'm headed back again for the weekend for a callback!  I'll be seeing lots of Grant and Matt this next week, which is am so thankful for... they're the light to my life.

*********

Please keep me in your prayers this next week/weekend.  So much has been going on over the past month and I know I've made some great decisions and I know I've made some mistakes... all I need is some guidance as to what my next step is or if something else is waiting for me.

Hope you all are doing well and I will be sure to fill you in more soon!

Also, CONGRATS to all my friends who are Graduating! I am so incredibly proud! You are all in my thoughts and prayers! xoxo

*HUG!*
Honey

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

A Brief Trip, Twilight & Videos!

Good morning everyone!  I hope you're all having a wonderful week!

I can't believe it's already Wednesday.  Only 2 more days until I leave for Pennsylvania! I'm all packed and preparred, only a few last minute things to do, but I feel ready.  The only part I'm not ready for is leaving Matt and Grant.  It's going to be a big bummer being away from the people I am closest with for 3 months. Hopefully I'll get some time to come back, or them to come out and see me.

Matt took off of work to spend the entire day with me, and later on this evening Grant will be joining us for a fun evening of just us three hanging out.  They really are the two best people I know.

Well... as some of you may have seen, the Scott Alan "I'm A Star" contest winner was revealed and the winner was Alexander Sage Oyen, who is currently going to school in Minnesota right now!  What a funny coincidence! If you see him in St. Paul or Minneapolis give him a high five! He's such a sweet guy and is so incredibly talented!

Oh one more thing I HAVE to mention... I started reading the 'Twilight' books! I know I'm like years late, but oh my gosh they are so good! I'm already half way through the second one and I just started about a week or two ago.  I think they're better than the movies, and they answer a lot of the questions I had during the movies! (Aka... why does Edward look like a nut case in the first scene with Bella sitting next to him, etc)  Now I understand *specifically* why all these little things happened that I never understood or never noticed in the movie.  Next... 'Hunger Games'!!!

Sorry it has been a while since I have written, things have once again been hectic, but if you haven't checked out my most recent videos please do.  One is "LaserLight" a new Jessie J song that I absolutely adore. The other is a thank you to Scott Alan and the judges for choosing me to be a part of the top 14 finalists.  And the final video is from a few weeks ago when I sang at a benefit for "The Hills Are Alive".

Hope you all have a wonderful rest of the week! I'll fill you in on the transition from NYC to PA as soon as I get settled in.  Love you all!

*HUG!*
Honey

Sunday, March 25, 2012

We're ALL STARS!

Wow! It has been over a week since I wrote! I'm sorry :-( I need to stay on this!

This past week and a half has been absolutely cray cray!

Due to all the pressure and stress I've been under, I stopped working out for a few days and started eating crappy again (yea yea... I know).  But I'm getting back on again tomorrow! (Or at least I'll try! haha)

I had a few callbacks here and there, working with some new, incredible people.  I also made it to the final 14 for the Scott Alan "I'm A Star" Contest.  I am so incredibly honored to be a part of such a fun, talented group of people.

In fact, I had lunch with two of them today (and a few more friends!) Stefani and Paul, two incredibly beautiful people!  It's just so refreshing to meet people who are so talented, yet so down to earth.  I really appreciated them taking the time out of their busy lives to grab a bite and just to get to know each other a little bit.  I know this is just the beginning of a new friendship with both of them and I wish them nothing but success and happiness in this industry and wherever the road takes them.

If that wasn't enough, I met Michael Buckley on Friday evening at the Digitour concert in NYC!  What a gorgeous person! Inside and out!  Seriously, the man has a sunshine smile and you can just tell from first impression that he is the sweetest man!  He did such a great job hosting the concert! Everyone literally was OBSESSED with HIM! (myself included).  Such a great personality and such a fun person!

All of these people are fun, amazing people!  I honestly, still cannot believe Scott Alan, Michael Buckley and all of these other amazingly talented people have watched my video!  It's such an honor to think that these incredibly successful people who have plenty of things going on in their lives, took time out to sit a watch 540 videos.  That right there shows how incredible these people are. Giving up their own personal time to do something like this is just so kind and I am so grateful (as are the rest of the top 13) for an opportunity such as this.

If you haven't please check out this Article in Playbill!

Also, be sure to watch the Top 14 Submission Videos!  They're not only talented... they're kind and caring people with so much to give to this industry and this world!

Please keep me in your thoughts and prayers as I continue to keep you in mine.

I love you all and hope you all have a wonderful start to the week!

*HUG!*
Honey

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Pasta and Ice Cream and Fries... Oh My!

Good afternoon everyone! I hope everyone had a nice work day.  We're half way through the week!  Does anyone feel like this week is dragging?  I certainly do!
Well... this week I began an intensive workout routine and a pretty strict calorie/fat diet to prepare for an upcoming audition.  I want to feel my best and look my best, and so far... it's working!  I've been doing around an hour to an hour and a half of cardio every day (treadmill, stair master, etc) and every other day I do weight lifting (legs and arms).  Since school ended I have really lost my flexibility, but I forgot how quickly I get it back only after a few stretching routines.  I've been sleeping much better since I began working out, however, I lack energy beginning at around 4 in the afternoon which isn't good either.  I do miss eating whatever I want, but that also isn't a realistic option in my life considering I don't have the metabolism of a 16 year old, teenage boy (like my boyfriend and brother have *lucky jerks*).  I really have to work at what I get, like many of us women (and even some men) have to, but in the end, it's well worth it.  It's just a matter of getting a routine together and sticking to it.

Routine has never really been my problem though... the eating has been!  I find that I love fatty foods (most of us do!).  Seriously... anything bad for me, I LOVE to eat.  I have to make sure to start eating healthier: lean meats, fruits, and veggies.  My weakness however are ... CARBS! and SWEETS!  Give me a bowl of pasta and a bowl of ice cream and I will eat them... together! (no no I'm just kidding, not together, but I will eat them both... and leave no left overs).  

I have to admit though... half of the reason I eat so terribly most of the time is because I am always on the go!  I never have time to make food at my apartment, so I'm constantly eating fast food, take out or at restaurants.

Anybody have any tips on how to stay on the right path to healthy eating?  Perhaps you know of healthy places to eat or low cal/fat foods at fast food restaurants?  I could use any encouragement and tips!  Let me know!

*HUG!* 
Honey

Friday, March 9, 2012

My Temporary Home Away from Home

Good morning and happy Friday to you all! I hope you have fun or relaxing plans for the weekend.  Matt and I just returned from Boston and had the most wonderful time!  Sadly Joan's trip was cut short, but she was so kind as to let us stay and enjoy the city for the remainder of the week.

Boston reminds me of a mixture of places, which is why I think I loved it so much.  It reminded me of the pretty parts of downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, mixed with the Financial District (the brick/cobblestone streets) and a little of California (maybe just because the weather was so nice and we were at an outdoor mall).

We had a blast though... we went shopping, walked along the water, had amazing food, walked the freedom trail, and saw some unforgettable monuments.  It was a trip I will always remember.

Something amazing that I had to let you all know is that I booked a show in Pennsylvania at the American Music Theatre.  The how is called "Country Classics" and it is a country music revue!  I'm super excited because this is a genre that everyone has told me to give a try and finally I'm going to see how it fits on me.

Rehearsals begin early April and the show runs from the very beginning of May through June 30th.  If you happen to be in the Lancaster/Philadelphia area, please come and see it!

The theatre is 1,600 seats, and is absolutely gorgeous!  And the people have been so incredibly kind.  I'm just excited to be on stage again and meeting new people.  It will be my new home away from home!

Anyways, I hope you all have fabulous weekends!  Wanted to keep you all posted! Love you all!

*HUG!*
Honey







Sunday, March 4, 2012

Youtube with a slice of Boston Cream Pie

Happy Sunday to you all! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

Well I have had quite the week!  First off... I finally reached my goal of 1 Million views on my Youtube Channel in under a year!  I'm super excited and hope you will all take a look at the videos if you have a chance.  (Click Here for Honey's Youtube Channel)

Another exciting thing is that I am taking a fun little trip to Boston this week!  I've only been there once before, but it was only an over night experience.  This time I will have the pleasure of being with my boyfriend and best friend in the world, Matt Hoerl, and his lovely step mom, Joan!  It's never a dull moment when she is around and I am so excited to be seeing the city with two people I love so much!  I let you know how the first time experience goes.  Anybody have any suggestions as to what we could do for fun?

I have much more to fill you all in on in a few days, but for now I have to go to dinner. Love to you all! Have a wonderful evening and a great week! xoxo

*HUG!*
Honey

Sunday, February 26, 2012

I'm ... well... Different

Sometimes I get so frustrated with life... who doesn't?  We're living in a world where sports players are being paid more than teachers and doctors, the media controls our perception of what men and women "should" look like, and ... well... you fill in the rest.

I guess what makes me personally so frustrated is that... truthfully... I'm lost.  Not as a person.  I know exactly who I am as Honey, but I seem to be lost as to who or what I am as a performer.

For those of you who know me, you all know that I've been singing since I was a little baby girl... talent shows, competitions, the shower... wherever and whenever I got the chance to sing, I would sing.  The only problem with it is that I never had a specific style of music I enjoyed singing... I enjoyed it all! (As most kids do!) What frustrates me now is that I've grown up my entire life never having a niche... you know... a specific type of music that I ended up sticking with.  But now I'm being told by people left and right "oh you need to sing this, or you need to sing that... in order to be successful." "The music industry isn't going to want someone who dresses like this, you need to change your hair, or your makeup, or your outfit."  "You voice is too soulful, or too broadway".

I'm constantly being pulled left and right by what people think I should do in order to become successful in this business, when all I really want to do is SING!

I find that music, expresses how I feel.  When I no longer can speak, I must sing.  I find that the true Honey comes to life when I am on a stage singing a song, or sitting next to a piano humming a melody, or Lord knows... singing in the shower belting a high note.  When I sing, I'm expressing how I feel.  If I want to sing soul one day because I'm feeling ballsy and fierce that's just the way it goes. And if I want to sing a sad country song because I'm in a blue mood, what is wrong with that?!

I find that this music industry... and any entertainment industry for that matter "types" everyone and only sells the fact that they can do that one thing exceptionally good.  Well, I want to defy that.  I don't just sing one thing well, I sing many things well.  Just like I know some of you who are reading this are in theatre... You may be the ingenue, but darn it... I know you can play that "character" type if you truly want to... and if your heart is in it.

I know all singers fit into a certain genre based upon their look and sound.  Well... I look like a sweet little country singer, but I don't want to be stuck singing country all my life if my heart isn't into it.  I want to sing what my heart is in to. I need to find something that is different than EVERYBODY else... and I guess what no one else has tried to do yet is... well... do it ALL!  I don't know an artist out there that sings country, pop, rock, soul, and jazz.  I think it would be pretty neat though!  Could you imagine driving in your car listening to one of your favorite artists and hearing an upbeat country song... then the next track comes on by the same artist and he or she is singing a jazz ballad?  I think it would be pretty awesome if you ask me!

Now I'm not saying everyone has to do this, I'm just saying, I'm too crazy to stick to just one type of music... which may sound weird, but hey... I'm weird.  And hopefully, someday, I can be an exception to the rule.

Hope you don't mind me ranting about this subject... it's just one I've been wanting to get off my chest for a while...  If Lady Gaga is allowed and capable of changing her look and performance every time she appears onstage, why should I not be allowed to change my sound/genre?  I think it would be fun! And entertaining... and... well... different.

Hope you all have a wonderful night! Enjoy the Oscars!

*HUG!*
Honey

Monday, February 20, 2012

Here it is...

Goooooood morning everyone! I hope you all had a fabulous weekend!  This weekend was pretty successful in terms of getting stuff done. I finally got a new video finished! It is Katy Perry's "Part of Me".  Its not exactly the kind of song I would sing, but I thought it would be fun to try it out since she performed it on the Grammys. Please if you have time, check it out! (PS don't laugh at the still shot... I look like a fool) ;-)



I also wanted to reach out to you all because this Friday night is the benefit concert for the new musical I am in "The Hills Are Alive!".  It will be at the Duplex theatre and I will be singing three songs (1 from the show and 2 that I just love to sing).  If you're in NYC it would mean a great deal to me if you could make it.  The link is here for the event. Check it out and let me know if you're coming so we can meet up after! http://www.facebook.com/events/272150476188883/

Also, if you haven't seen this please check it out.  It also would mean a great deal not only to me but to the cast.  Anything and everything helps. http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1955061574/the-hills-are-alive-premiere-production-in-nyc


I hope you all have a wonderful day!  Hope the weather is nice wherever you all are. xoxo

*HUG!*
Honey

Friday, February 17, 2012

Let's Catch Up!

Good afternoon! I hope you all are having a great afternoon and start to the weekend!

Well... It has been one heck of a week!  Valentine's Day was on Tuesday and I know that many of you celebrated with loved ones, friends, family, your dog, or your tv.  To be honest, mine was the simplest one yet, which is what made it the absolute best.  Like I told my brother Mikey the other day... we listened to music, ate crackers and talked all day.  We were lazy and did nothing... and it's exactly what we both needed.  I believe that finding love in the simple things and enjoying each others company is what defines a strong relationship.  Of course, after our lazy day, I was taken out for an amazing dinner and received some incredible flowers (but the card was my favorite).  

I am s incredibly blessed to have someone like Matt in my life.  He makes cloudy days sunny, cold days warm, and turns the dull, dark and grey into vibrant and colorful.  When I am with Matt I feel like I am living proof of the scene in the "Wizard of Oz".  Dorothy opens the doors from the dull, dark world and is suddenly exposed to a world of life, color and beauty.  Make takes me over the rainbow.  Thank you, Matt.

Aside from me being all mushy, I had some two lovely guests come in town last night!  We had a beautiful dinner at a little Italian restaurant in the upper east side.  It was so much fun! And the waiter spoke with an Italian accent while he hit on my friend, Molly's mom (Cyndee). But hey... She's a babe so how can you blame him?  :-)

Going all the way back to Sunday... what did you think of the Grammy's?  Personally, I was a little let down.  I think I was so excited and hyped up for them and they just didn't meet my expectations.  However, Jennifer Hudson performed a beautiful rendition of "I Will Always Love You" (I cried the whole performance), and Coldplay sounded great!  Of course I always love Kelly Clarkson so you all know how I feel about that. haha... What I was bummed out about was how short The Civil Wars performance was.  I was so amazed by their harmonies and in love with how well their voices meshed, I wish they would have had more stage time.  Maybe next year.

Well... I have to go... I'll write again soon!  Have a lovely Friday night!

*HUG!*
Honey

Thursday, February 16, 2012

A Very Special Man

I want to start out by bragging to you all about a very important person in my life. This person has been around since I was born; he raised me, influenced me and taught me how to be the performer I am today... Yes... This special person is my Dad, and today is the day I thank the Lord for blessing this world with his beautiful presence.

My Dad has always been someone I look up to. I wrote an enty about a half of a year ago about how my Dad has influenced my musical capabilities and such, but Now I want to tell you about how he has influenced me as a person.

Kind, generous, passionate, compassionate and loving are only a few of the many words that describe what kind of a man my Dad is. He always gives unconditionally without expecting anything in return. He is kind to everyone and anyone and even though there are rude and inconsiderate people in this world, he never seems to say a mean world about anyone. He cares about about everyone and treats everyone with the respect that he would want to be treated with. He is a man that uses his heart in everything he does and for that I will always respect him.

I love my Dad so incredibly much and am so incredibly blessed to have him in my life. Thanks Dad for being the man you are and for being such an amazing influence in my life. I hope that today and every day you receive the love, kindness and joy that you deserve. The world could use more people like you in it... Maybe then there wouldn't be war, violence or hurt... Just love, laughter and music.

Thank you, I love you... Happy birthday!

*HUG!*
Honey

Saturday, February 11, 2012

'The Hills Are Alive' Recording & Me Just Being Random

Hey everyone! I hope you're having a great weekend!

Last night I threw a surprise birthday party for Grant's 21st birthday.  Everyone had a nice time, and it was great getting to meet all of Grant's friends.  They sure do love him. Who wouldn't?

Today I'm just trying to get a bunch of work done and then tonight I am babysitting.  I always love babysitting!  It's relaxing, fun and it's nice to get out of the house and to experience someone else's life style for a change, which is why I also love being an actress.

I'm super pumped for tomorrow! I'm recording for the original cast album of "The Hills Are Alive!"  It should be a fun time and I can't wait to get back in the studio.  It's been a while.  Be sure to donate to the show and check out "The Hills Are Alive!" official website by clicking here: The Hills Website & Kickstarter!

Speaking of recording... does anyone have any ideas for what I could record this weekend on youtube?  I'm drawing a blank ad genuinely need your help.

I hope you all have a restful weekend.

*HUG!*
Honey

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

It's only TUESDAY?!?!

I was up and at 'em again at 6 this morning.  I got to watch The Bachelor last night which is of course my favorite show on TV right now.  But getting up this morning wasn't as hard as it was yesterday.  And shockingly enough I haven't had that "drowsy hit" yet, but I'm sure it will be coming here soon.

Keeping myself busy during auditions always seems to keep me awake.  I find when I sit around I get tired and groggy.  However, this morning I ran between three auditions (and am still going at it), I wrote a few thank you cards, made a few phone calls, and focused on learning sides and songs for auditions and classes. I hate to admit it, but I actually enjoy being busy.  I'm sure most actors are like that though.  it gives us something to focus on and be in control of.  I find that a busy day, is a good day.  Not saying that days off aren't amazing, because they are!

After these auditions today (hopefully I will be seen) I'm headed to a photo shoot with Mr. Matt Hoerl and a few of his friends.  Then working out, and more memorizing/learning.  The rest of the week is going to be even more crazy, but I suppose that's a good thing!

Also, I was featured on BreakoutHits once again... this time there is a breif bio of me, which is pretty cool! Check it out HERE!

Until then, I hope you're all having a wonderful week!

*HUG!*
Honey

Sunday, February 5, 2012

A New Week, a Fresh Start

Hello my friends!  I hope you all had a wonderful weekend and are enjoying your Sunday.

Mom and Dad just left the apartment and are headed back home to good ol' Minnesota.  I'm really going to miss them both.  We had such a wonderful time together.  It's just nice enjoying each others company.  I pray they get home safely.

This is going to be one heck of a week! Back on the old exercise/healthy eating routine, along with countless auditions, meetings, and "things to do".  I'm excited to get things rolling again, but of course, who doesn't love relaxing and having fun?  The early mornings are what get me.  Waking up at 5:30am every morning to be seen (or not seen) for an audition really gets to me after a week or so.  Hopefully this week turns out better then the last.  Please say a prayer for me.

Something totally random... approximately 1 month from today will be the 1 year anniversary mark that I have been a member of youtube.  Matt and I think it would be really cool if I reached a goal of 1 million views in 1 year.  It's something to hope for at least.  If you haven't checked out some of my videos, please feel free to!  Here are some links: 'Love On Top'  ,  'Domino'  ,  'Lost In Paradise' and my newest video 'Safe & Sound'.  Also, check out my YouTube Channel for more videos!

I hope you all have a blessed week and stay healthy and warm!
Love to you all!

*HUG!*
Honey

Saturday, February 4, 2012

SURPRISE!!!

Happy Saturday everyone! I hope you all had a fun Friday night.  I'm sorry it has been a few days since I've last written, and trust me, I've wanted to write, but I knew if I did I would ruin the surprise.

As many of you know, it was my brother's (Grant) birthday on Wednesday.  He turned the big 21 and has been waiting for the longest time it seems like.  Well, my mom had planned on coming out for his birthday and spending the weekend with us, but what he didn't know was that my dad was coming out to surprise him as well!  ... My mom, Grant and I were all hailing a cab and as soon as we got one we all jumped in and my dad appeared out of no where and jumped in the cab next to Grant.  He flipped!  It was such a joy to see Grant so happy and surprised.  He's a great guy.

So for the past 3 days we've all been hanging out!  Yesterday we spent all day walking around the city.  Making our way from the upper east side, to Herald Square's Macy's store, all the way down to the 9/11 Memorial near Wall Street.  On Grant's birthday we went out for a fabulous dinner at Del Frisco's; a gorgeous restaurant right across from Radio City.  And on Thursday my parents and I spent the day together doing some odds-n-ends shopping and relaxing.  Who knows what will be in store today?... I guess I'll have to go find out.

Have a wonderful day everyone!

*HUG!*
Honey

Sunday, January 29, 2012

Happy Sunday!

This is a quick reminder about a few things that are going on in my random life.

If you are in NYC February 24th be sure to come to The Duplex for "The Hills Are Alive!" benefit concert!  Click Here!  For details about the show.  It's going to be an amazing time.  

Also, if you haven't taken the time out to look at this, please do.  It would mean so much to me and to the cast of "The Hills Are Alive!"  Anything helps truly.  Kickstarter "The Hills Are Alive"

If you also have not seen my Twitter, Website, or Facebook Page be sure to check them out/follow/friend me!  I always love staying in contact with you!

Now that that is all out of the way... it's Grant's (my brother) birthday this week! My Mom is coming in town on Wednesday to celebrate with all of us and spend some quality time with Grant.  In the meantime I have another full week of auditions and random things to get done.  Wish me luck!

I hope everyone has a wonderful Sunday! God is good!

*HUG!*
Honey

Thursday, January 26, 2012

TWITTER!

Today has been an interesting week! I started out on Monday doing absolutely nothing! haha... I literally laid in bed all day, hung out with my brother and watched The Bachelor (yes... The Bachelor... do not judge ;-P).

Tuesday and Wednesday were crazy with auditions.  Sadly, even though both days were dedicated to auditions I was only seen at one! Oh well... hopefully things work out better tomorrow.

Now today is my "off day"... but guess what I started doing yesterday?  WORKING OUT! Yes! Aren't you proud of me?  I already feel a little better!  And today I am going again. So woo hoo! Take that new years resolutions (only a month late :-/ )

Click Here for Twitter
Anyways... I was on Twitter last night looking at who most of my followers are and oh my gosh!... most of my followers aren't even from the United States, which is incredible!  Most are from Brazil or Argentina! I think this is sooo cool and so much fun to get to know people who are from different places in the world.  I've always wanted to go somewhere else in the world and explore the rich cultures of different countries.  Hopefully one day I will!  In the meantime, let's see if I can get as many U.S. followers!

Click Here for Twitter Page!

That's all for right now my friends!  Have a wonderful day!

*HUG!*
Honey

Monday, January 23, 2012

"Safe and Sound"

GOOD MORNING!

Well a new week has begun and guess what I did over the weekend (that I am extremely proud of myself for doing)???... I made a new VIDEO!  Seriously everyone... this is a huge accomplishment for me!  I usually follow through on what I plan on doing or what I say I am going to do, but I didn't even think I'd last a week with this new years resolution!  I mean I didn't start my working out yet so why would this be any different?

Please check it out!

I have a line up of auditions this week so please say extra prayers for me.  I'm praying that something comes my way soon. Sometimes I wake up and think... "why am I doing this"?  Putting myself through a life of instability both emotionally and financially.  But then I remind myself what it feels like to sing a song or be in a show and I no longer have to ask myself that question.

That is honestly the reason why I make these youtube videos... because it's the only way I can perform for people who want to see me perform.... at least for right now.  So I thank all of you who have been watching and supporting the videos I have been putting up on youtube.  Trust me, it doesn't go unnoticed.

I hope you all have a wonderful start to the week and I hope you'll take the time out to watch "Safe and Sound".

*HUG!*
Honey

Thursday, January 19, 2012

**Pat on the Back** & a Featured Video!

So I feel like I've made some progress today! After 4 months I finally signed up for a Television/Film class!  My agent told me that I really need to take one class just to get the hang of how to audition for film/tv and I finally did it!  *Pat on the back*

Some other cool news... A new music website was kind enough to feature me as one of their newest Break Out Hit Artists! If you click on the link you can see me singing "I Have Nothing" by the incredible Whitney Houston! If you have time please share, like, "thumbs up" the video.  


Other than that I am excited to spend a night in with my two best buds (Grant & Matt), making a delicious pasta dish and researching open mic nights in NYC.  I want to try going to a few places a week and just singing to random audiences.  I think it would be good for me, rather than sitting on my bum watching american Idol or Modern Family.  

Gotta run!  Love you all!

*HUG!* 
Honey

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

An interesting start of the week...

For some reason I keep feeling like it's Thursday?... weird.

Anywho... guess what I didn't do?... I didn't start working out yet this week you guys!  This is so bad! I told myself I was going to start on Monday, but all hell broke lose! I'm not even kidding you! I woke up at 5:30am to go to a "Spring Awakening" call, sat around until 11 and was told they were NOT seeing non-equity members.  Sadly I am one of those people who were not seen.  I was the very first person there and didn't get seen.  If that wasn't enough, I went the next day and I was typed out! Boo them!

Oh well that's ok... I got a callback for an Opry Theatre down in Tennessee.  Could ya'll see me down in Tennessee?  I COULD! Nice, hot weather.  Friendly people talking with their cute accents!  Something I could definitely get used to!  Hopefully good things come from that so please pray for me!

Another cool thing that happened this week was that I had an interview with Lucas Perroni.  He is the writer for a website/gossip online magazine called "Teenage Connection", which is located in Brazil.  I thought having an international interview was pretty darn cool if I do say so myself!  Here is the link if you'd like to take a look at it.  I know a few people have used google translation to read it because it's in Portuguese. =)


And finally... I'm coming up on making another video here over the weekend, but my goal for the rest of this week is to try and hit 1 MILLION views for my video "Love On Top".  If you could take the time out and watch it again (or first the first time if you haven't already seen it) I would be so incredibly grateful.

I will keep you all posted on more to come this week/end.

My eyes are burning from my contacts, have to go take them out! Love ya'll!

*HUG!*
Honey

Sunday, January 15, 2012

DOMINO!

Well this has been one heck of a week!  It all started out with the auditions for the theatre in PA, which went just lovely!  There were a few other auditions here and there and a couple of callbacks.

But what was really great about this weekend was that I finally got a new video up on youtube (the image is absolutely horrid! =))! It's been about 2 months since I last posted one and I am happy to say that I am back on track with posting videos!  If you haven't seen it yet, please check it out!  The song is called "Domino" and it is by an amazing artist from the UK.  Her name is Jessie J and she truly is an inspiration.  Talk about talent... this girl can SANG!

This week is looking good in my world!  I'm going to a bunch of auditions, but more importantly... I'm beginning my exercise routine, which I truly believe will push me harder and motivate me, not only in the gym, but ... well... in life!  I'll let you know how it goes!  For tonight... I am eating as much junk food as I can to get it all out of my system before the "healthier eating" begins.

While eating my junk food, I plan on watching the Green Bay Packers/ New York Giants game.  I hope the Packers take it! I love the QB Aaron Rodgers! He seems like such a sweet, down to earth guy.

Anyways, here's to a happy week ahead!  Cheers!

*HUG!*
Honey

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

“Practice as if you are the worst, perform as if you are the best.”

As most of you know, I am a perfectionist... especially when it comes to what I love most... PERFORMING!  Whenever I rehearse I always make sure to pick a part each little line, note, move, etc to make sure that what I am doing is nothing short of my best.  Yes at times I can be lazy, but I just make sure to get back on it the next day and tackle it even harder!

So today I had my audition for a theatre company in Pennsylvania.  The show I was aiming for was "The Sound of Music" because I figured one of the Von Trapp children's roles would suit me best.

As I walked into the room, everyone was so friendly and welcoming.  As I prepared to sing my song, I took a deep breath and literally imagined the surroundings in the audition room blooming into the setting of my song.  I saw: flowers all over the place, vines, a garden, and a dark, rusted gate.  Blue skies, blue birds, a bumble bee, and a spider's web tangled in the corner of the rusted fence.  As I imagined all of these little details about where I was, I thought about what I truly wanted, and all of a sudden... my mouth opened and I was singing the first note of the song.

I have sung this song hundreds of times for auditions, however, this time when I sang it, it was different.  By living in the world that surrounded me, rather then pretend to be in this world, I felt like every emotion I evoked was genuine and true.  I didn't have to "try", I just had to "be".

Some songs I have this connection with automatically, and I am so happy to say that today was the first time I truly felt it with this one.  I cannot wait until the next time I get to sing it!

If that wasn't enough, they wanted to hear more (a song that showed off my belt... which you all know I LOVE to do!), which I hope is a good sign? :-/ We'll see!

I guess my point is... sometimes you just need to let all of the work you've done speak for itself and let it go!  I've been in school long enough to know most ins and outs of how to perform a song, monologue, etc.  So I guess what I need to do now is simply "Practice as if I am the worst, and perform as if I am the absolute best!"

With that ray of confidence and trust in the work I have done, I hope to give a stellar performance both in the audition room and on stage!

Hope you all have a wonderful evening! Off to babysit the sweetest little girl ever!

*HUG!*
Honey

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Flyin' High

So I'm sitting on a plane right now, mid flight and I thought I would write to you all.

Guess what happened to me yesterday?... Well I got a call in for 2 shows... one is "Hairspray", the other is "The Sound of Music".  I love both shows, but can honestly say I am not as familiar with Hairspray as I should be.  I'm sitting on the plane right now learning the three songs and all the sides that were emailed to me.  I hope I can get it all learned by Friday.  HAPPY THOUGHTS!

Not only did I get news about these two calls, but yesterday I went to the doctor to see why I have been feeling dizzy lately... well the doctor said it may be due to my ears.  So after looking in both of them she suggested I buy an ear kit to cleanse my ears.  To my surprise I found myself with one deaf ear before I went to bed last night.  It turns out I moved around some skin inside and it got pack up into my ear drum.

So this morning my wonderful mother drove me to the doctor to get my ears checked out.  My dad met us there and after spending about 2 hours at the office, the doctor finally used a tool to go all the way down into my ear to scrape around the ear drum and remove packed in wax.

It was so painful and I literally was on edge the entire time!  I never realized how incredibly sensitive our ears are... and even more, how extremely grateful I am for something as simple as hearing.  I cried last night because I was afraid I wouldn't get it back.  Thankfully with prayers all turned out well!

So that was my scary night!  I'm getting ready to land back in New York right now... they're asking us to turn our computers off.  Have a wonderful day! Talk to ya'll soon!

*HUG!*
Honey

Thursday, January 5, 2012

New Years Resolutions...

Hello my friends!

I know it has been a loooong time, but I am back and on track!

So get this... I have made a few new years resolutions.  I know all of you may be laughing because, well... hey... we all know how long those can last (aka not very long).  But I have decided to set a few goals for myself:
 - Blog at least 3-4 times/week
 - Exercise at least 3-5 times/week
 - Go out more often
 - Make a video once a week

I've realized that blogging is a wonderful way for me to relive stress, organize myself and my thoughts, and reach out to people!  Therefore, why not do something for myself that makes me feel better AND is FREE!

Now the exercise bit is interesting... for the past 4 months since I graduated from college I have been without a gym membership.  Lord knows how expensive they are in Manhattan, but thankfully I have an amazing boyfriend who knew exactly what I wanted and got me a membership.  If that's not enough, he got one too! So no I got myself a workout buddy!

Going out more often seems like an odd resolution, however, after constantly working on projects, auditioning, and managing the crazy life I live, I figured I need to make a commitment to see friends more often and just enjoy the fact that I live in New York City!

All of these resolutions are just a way to try and better myself and my life.  I hope I can do it!

However, before I do, I am going to finish enjoying my vacation at home with my family and friends!  Once I get back to the concrete jungle I will be giving it my all!

Happy thoughts!

*HUG!*
Honey