Those who have followed Hot Toddy's Toaster Oven for years know that I am , first and foremost, a clown. I like to make people laugh. I don't take myself too seriously.
But readers of this blog also know that I've been heartbroken and melancholy.
A couple of years ago, I fell in love with Thor. It was the most amazing and most devastating relationship of my life. But I will always be thankful for the chance to experience such an amazing passion.
I have moved on from that relationship. But recently I found a song by Imogen Heap that brought me right back to that passionate desperate place. I want to share it with you, because you've been with me for years and don't judge me for my romantic soul. You get me. And that is why I'm so grateful to have loyal readers like you who are kindred spirits.
Hot Toddy's Toaster Oven is for those who feel deeply and love without reservation. Thank you to all who have stood by me through the ups and the downs.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Hide And Seek
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Hide and Seek
I tried to post a video tonight. I thought that I might be able to explain a bit more about Hot Toddy if I shared a raw and unedited view of myself here. But YouTube hates me and won't allow me to post videos on my blog.
So here is the link to my current favorite song.
If you have followed this blog for a while and are familiar with the story of Toddy & Thor (circa 2005), I feel this video really sums up our story.
If you don't care, I don't blame you. There are lots of bloggers who will tell you about the new cell phone they bought yesterday or the hot guy they hooked up with at the gym. Hot Toddy's Toaster Oven is where romantic souls come to laugh and cry. I'm glad you're here. Thanks for getting me. I get you too.
So here is the link to my current favorite song.
If you have followed this blog for a while and are familiar with the story of Toddy & Thor (circa 2005), I feel this video really sums up our story.
If you don't care, I don't blame you. There are lots of bloggers who will tell you about the new cell phone they bought yesterday or the hot guy they hooked up with at the gym. Hot Toddy's Toaster Oven is where romantic souls come to laugh and cry. I'm glad you're here. Thanks for getting me. I get you too.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
Stuff White People Like
I am so jealous that I didn't think of this.
I remember when my blog used to be funny. Those were the days.
Maybe someday I'll get inspired to get back to the funny. Lately I find myself saving all my funny stories for the Todd & Pony Show.
I remember when my blog used to be funny. Those were the days.
Maybe someday I'll get inspired to get back to the funny. Lately I find myself saving all my funny stories for the Todd & Pony Show.
Monday, March 03, 2008
Monday Morning!
I got up early just so I could post an entry before I go to work.
Instead, I think I'll watch the latest episode of LOST.
If this blog were my child it would be taken into custody by Child Protective Services.
Instead, I think I'll watch the latest episode of LOST.
If this blog were my child it would be taken into custody by Child Protective Services.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
My Satellite Sisters
One of my very favorite podcasts is The Satellite Sisters. One of the hosts, Monica Dolan, is coming to see Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera this weekend. I can't tell you how excited I am to meet her after the show!
If you're interested, here is Monday's show in which the sisters briefly discuss Tonya & Nancy! (Segment begins at 15:50)
http://www.satellitesisters.com/audio/show115.mp3
You can also hear it at iTunes (February 25, 2008 episode)
I've straightened the sisters out on some of the facts of this confusing story. They now understand that Shawn was not, as they say, "the whacker". (I didn't want to steal "Shane Stant's" thunder)
If you're interested, here is Monday's show in which the sisters briefly discuss Tonya & Nancy! (Segment begins at 15:50)
http://www.satellitesisters
You can also hear it at iTunes (February 25, 2008 episode)
I've straightened the sisters out on some of the facts of this confusing story. They now understand that Shawn was not, as they say, "the whacker". (I didn't want to steal "Shane Stant's" thunder)
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Hot Toddy on CNN
Here is my favorite video clip of Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera news coverage.
Yes, folks. This little Portland show was covered by CNN.
I'm still trying to let it all sink in. We sold out last night. I'll be surprised if we don't extend the show.
Today is the first day off I've had in weeks. I'm going to take a nap, watch television, probably catch the Oscars, and eat lots of food since I finally got to the freakin' grocery store!
Most importantly, I'm NOT singing today! Life is good.
Yes, folks. This little Portland show was covered by CNN.
I'm still trying to let it all sink in. We sold out last night. I'll be surprised if we don't extend the show.
Today is the first day off I've had in weeks. I'm going to take a nap, watch television, probably catch the Oscars, and eat lots of food since I finally got to the freakin' grocery store!
Most importantly, I'm NOT singing today! Life is good.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Publicity Overload
I've never been part of a show that received so much press. Of course, when Tonya Harding comes to your opening night, there's bound to be buzz.
Have you ever received a standing ovation from Tonya Harding? I have.
I'm trying to post a video here, but until I manage to do so, here's a sampling of news coverage Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera has received.
Stories with video
KATU News:
Willamette Week
Newspapers
The Oregonian
Portland Tribune
Have you ever received a standing ovation from Tonya Harding? I have.
I'm trying to post a video here, but until I manage to do so, here's a sampling of news coverage Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera has received.
Stories with video
KATU News:
Willamette Week
Newspapers
The Oregonian
Portland Tribune
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Opening Night
Tonight at 8:00 p.m. the cast of Tonya & Nancy will be rocking the World Trade Center. Our band is awesome. I just hope the audience will be able to hear us singing! I also hope that I don't do anything stupid. Last night at our final dress rehearsal, I accidentally brought a nightie on stage. What happened was.... the actress playing Tonya asked me to bring the wrap-around skirt part of her costume on stage because she didn't have time to put it on backstage. I accidentally scooped up some of the lingerie she wore in a previous scene and carried it out with me. The scene on stage was the 1993 National Figure Skating Championships, and there I was, Tonya Harding's bodyguard, holding a slinky negligee. I threw it on the floor and tried to kick it behind me.
Here is a link to story about the show. Included in the online article is a link to "When You Wake Up Sleeping in Your Car in Estacada", one of the songs in the show.
My cell phone rang at 7 a.m. this morning waking me from a sound sleep. It was Auburn Pisces calling to let me know she had seen me on the news. (A news crew had filmed one of our rehearsals a couple weeks ago so I think that's the footage she saw).
We've had lots of press for this show, and the fact that Tonya is coming to see it tonight is probably a big reason for the hullabaloo.
I am looking forward to meeting Ms. Harding, but to be honest I am more looking forward to this weekend when I can sleep in, do some laundry and go to the grocery store!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Orange and Purple
Today I am wearing orange and purple together. Why? Because I feel like wearing orange and purple. They don't match well. I look ridiculous. Like a clown.
I need to feel like a clown today because I have been rehearsing for the show and am recording a podcast today. I have not done laundry or gone to the grocery store for 2 weeks, and I doubt I will accomplish either task today either. I seriously need to spend some time reviewing a few of the songs in the show because everything sounds completely different with the band. Rehearsing with a piano sounds nothing like rehearsing with electric guitars and drums. Tomorrow I am back at the office and then rehearsal, and that will continue for the rest of the week. Tylenol PM helps me shut off my brain at night, but I still fall asleep with songs from the rock opera running through my head.
When I have lots of obligations, I start to feel pent up. I want to be free of all commitments. But that isn't a realistic way to live. So I am just going to wear orange and purple together.
Tonya told our director that she would like to have drinks with the cast after the show. We open Thursday!
That is the update for those of you who cared enough to ask. It touches me that people are still out there reading even though I rarely update lately! Thank you!
I need to feel like a clown today because I have been rehearsing for the show and am recording a podcast today. I have not done laundry or gone to the grocery store for 2 weeks, and I doubt I will accomplish either task today either. I seriously need to spend some time reviewing a few of the songs in the show because everything sounds completely different with the band. Rehearsing with a piano sounds nothing like rehearsing with electric guitars and drums. Tomorrow I am back at the office and then rehearsal, and that will continue for the rest of the week. Tylenol PM helps me shut off my brain at night, but I still fall asleep with songs from the rock opera running through my head.
When I have lots of obligations, I start to feel pent up. I want to be free of all commitments. But that isn't a realistic way to live. So I am just going to wear orange and purple together.
Tonya told our director that she would like to have drinks with the cast after the show. We open Thursday!
That is the update for those of you who cared enough to ask. It touches me that people are still out there reading even though I rarely update lately! Thank you!
Monday, February 04, 2008
Meeting Tonya
This just in.
Tonya Harding is planning on attending Tonya & Nancy on opening night.
As the cast rehearses the show, I feel confident that Tonya would approve. There are some very heartfelt moments that will help the audience to see Tonya as the human being that she is.
She made some mistakes. Personally, I wouldn't want my life to be played out in the media the way hers was. I'm sure most of us wouldn't come off smelling like a rose if publicizing our faults made for a good news story.
I'm interested to meet her and am looking forward to performing the show for Tonya Harding. Nancy Kerrigan, I've heard, has said she does not want to be involved in the show in any way.
The next couple weeks before opening night are sure to be a wild ride.
Tonya Harding is planning on attending Tonya & Nancy on opening night.
As the cast rehearses the show, I feel confident that Tonya would approve. There are some very heartfelt moments that will help the audience to see Tonya as the human being that she is.
She made some mistakes. Personally, I wouldn't want my life to be played out in the media the way hers was. I'm sure most of us wouldn't come off smelling like a rose if publicizing our faults made for a good news story.
I'm interested to meet her and am looking forward to performing the show for Tonya Harding. Nancy Kerrigan, I've heard, has said she does not want to be involved in the show in any way.
The next couple weeks before opening night are sure to be a wild ride.
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Beth Willis
I'm working with an amazing singer/songwriter in Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera. Beth Willis has a beautiful voice and writes incredible songs. Please check her out at her website or her MySpace page. Beth is playing Tonya Harding in the show, and she is doing a great job. Audiences are going to fall in love with her.
I'm playing Tonya's bodyguard, Shawn Eckhardt, so I get to spend some time with Beth waiting in the wings. Today she taught me the Star Trek "Live Long and Prosper" sign. She's so cool, and so genuine and kind.
What I love most about theatre is the opportunity to meet and work with talented and inspirational artists. It is good to be back on stage.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera
Well, it may be a while until I have time to update. I'm working many nights each week to get ready for the world premiere of Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera. What a fun show. And what an amazing cast!
My ex is in the show. That was a shocker, let me tell you! I am still sort of trying to figure out how to work with him professionally without letting our past become an issue. He was my first love, and although I don't have those feelings for him any longer, I have to admit it is hard to work with him professionally. It is just so hard to separate personal feelings from my professional responsibilities!
Actually, he was a big reason I started this blog. I needed an outlet for all I was feeling. I have had several significant relationships since him, but, as Sheryl Crow would say, "the first cut is the deepest..."
My ex is in the show. That was a shocker, let me tell you! I am still sort of trying to figure out how to work with him professionally without letting our past become an issue. He was my first love, and although I don't have those feelings for him any longer, I have to admit it is hard to work with him professionally. It is just so hard to separate personal feelings from my professional responsibilities!
Actually, he was a big reason I started this blog. I needed an outlet for all I was feeling. I have had several significant relationships since him, but, as Sheryl Crow would say, "the first cut is the deepest..."
Friday, January 11, 2008
Irreplaceable~Sugarland and Beyonce
Hot Damn, Patter Pam. I had so much fun with you and The Handsome Prince and The Math Whiz tonight. Celebrating Torrey's birthday and supporting her in the loss of a family member as she prepares for tomorrow's funeral.
Wine and vodka and a fire pit and barbecued hamburgers and laughter and admissions of dorky boy-stalking.
Life is good. My friends make it all worthwhile.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Back on the Boards
This weekend, I'll be starting rehearsals for the world premiere of Tonya & Nancy: The Rock Opera. I'm playing Shawn Eckardt.
I haven't done a show in a couple years. I took time off to explore other interests, including softball. But how could I say no to this opportunity? It will be so great to be back on stage again!
I'm very excited about the cast too. I'll get to work with some great people.
Portland Musicians to Star in Harding/Kerrigan Musical
I'll keep you posted!
I haven't done a show in a couple years. I took time off to explore other interests, including softball. But how could I say no to this opportunity? It will be so great to be back on stage again!
I'm very excited about the cast too. I'll get to work with some great people.
Portland Musicians to Star in Harding/Kerrigan Musical
I'll keep you posted!
Saturday, January 05, 2008
My Swedish Obsession
This morning I logged on to check the weather. Moments later, I was searching for a pizza place near Stockholm. I don't know how this happens!
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Back in Business
After 12 days of fun, I'm returning to the office this morning.
Who knows what awaits me upon my return? The anticipation I feel regarding my e-mail inbox is a mixture of bliss and thankfulness. With orgasmic pleasure, I will return phone calls and meet with my Internal Customers. Oh, how I have missed my Internal Customers.
It's all in the attitude, right?
Who knows what awaits me upon my return? The anticipation I feel regarding my e-mail inbox is a mixture of bliss and thankfulness. With orgasmic pleasure, I will return phone calls and meet with my Internal Customers. Oh, how I have missed my Internal Customers.
It's all in the attitude, right?
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Home from the Holidays
I'm back in Portland, Oregon after a week long visit with my family in Dallas. Yeehaw.
Really, I love Portland so much, and everytime I come back home I'm so happy to be living here. There is nowhere like Portland. People are just so unique in this town, and, when you live here, you encounter the quirkiness every single day. I feel like this town is populated by like-minded souls.
For example, yesterday it was raining, as is usual for this time of the year. I was getting ready to get into my truck and head to the grocery store when a woman came riding down the street on her bike. She was singing a nonsensical song at the top of her lungs. The rain sprayed in her face and her clothing was soaked as she sang her one-word song that went something like this...
"Wet, wet, wet, wet, wet.
Wet-Wet-Wet.
Wet, wet, wet
Wet-wet-wet, wet..."
Dunno if that is one of those "had to be there things" but it made me laugh. She was clearly trying to have some humor and joy about what could be a miserable situation.
Well, friends. I'm back, and I hope you had a wonderful holiday. Happy new year. No really - have a HAPPY new year. Whether you're wet or dry, just be happy.
Really, I love Portland so much, and everytime I come back home I'm so happy to be living here. There is nowhere like Portland. People are just so unique in this town, and, when you live here, you encounter the quirkiness every single day. I feel like this town is populated by like-minded souls.
For example, yesterday it was raining, as is usual for this time of the year. I was getting ready to get into my truck and head to the grocery store when a woman came riding down the street on her bike. She was singing a nonsensical song at the top of her lungs. The rain sprayed in her face and her clothing was soaked as she sang her one-word song that went something like this...
"Wet, wet, wet, wet, wet.
Wet-Wet-Wet.
Wet, wet, wet
Wet-wet-wet, wet..."
Dunno if that is one of those "had to be there things" but it made me laugh. She was clearly trying to have some humor and joy about what could be a miserable situation.
Well, friends. I'm back, and I hope you had a wonderful holiday. Happy new year. No really - have a HAPPY new year. Whether you're wet or dry, just be happy.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Dirty Little Christmas #2
Not that I deserve it, but I am taking a break from Hot Toddy's Toaster Oven.
I haven't been good at updating, and a good blogger always updates his/her blog. I guess I'm not a good blogger, and that's okay with me. I managed to scrape by a 4th anniversary with Hot Toddy's Toaster Oven. It's hard to believe I stuck with something for four years. Maybe I can make it for a few more years, even though people are saying that blogging is becoming a thing of the past. (Podcasting and Social Networking sites like Facebook are, I presume, the wave of the future?)
I won't head off on my vacation without a brief update. Last weekend I attended two holiday parties and also saw a play by William Hoffman titled As Is. There were some truly remarkable performances from the cast. My friends The Handsome Prince and Apollo both appeared in the show and made me very proud.
Pony and Juju and I also had a blast recording our second annual Christmas podcast. I hope you will give it a listen!
Todd & Pony Show - Dirty Little Christmas #2
Have a wonderful holiday, my friends.
I haven't been good at updating, and a good blogger always updates his/her blog. I guess I'm not a good blogger, and that's okay with me. I managed to scrape by a 4th anniversary with Hot Toddy's Toaster Oven. It's hard to believe I stuck with something for four years. Maybe I can make it for a few more years, even though people are saying that blogging is becoming a thing of the past. (Podcasting and Social Networking sites like Facebook are, I presume, the wave of the future?)
I won't head off on my vacation without a brief update. Last weekend I attended two holiday parties and also saw a play by William Hoffman titled As Is. There were some truly remarkable performances from the cast. My friends The Handsome Prince and Apollo both appeared in the show and made me very proud.
Pony and Juju and I also had a blast recording our second annual Christmas podcast. I hope you will give it a listen!
Todd & Pony Show - Dirty Little Christmas #2
Have a wonderful holiday, my friends.
Friday, December 14, 2007
JC Goes Home for the Holiday
When I lived in Dallas, Texas I listened to Kidd Kraddick in the Morning almost every day. Now I subscribe to the show via iTunes and YouTube. Just wanted to share this story with you. Happy Holidays.
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