Make sure to watch Hannity tonight on Fox News Channel, at 9pm!
Then, in the 8am hour, tomorrow, Tuesday December 22nd, I'll be on Fox and Friends with Gretchen, Steve and Brian, also on Fox News Channel.
Check it out! :)
Monday, December 21, 2009
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Santa, a health risk?
I'm sorry but this is ridiculous. Now, even SANTA CLAUS has to look like a super-skinny model? Horrible. Let Santa Claus be jolly and rotund. Nobody gives Buddha any crap.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,580449,00.html
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,580449,00.html
BAD Cheerios. Bad.
"More Grains. Less You." This is also, a HORRIBLE campaign message. Less me? No thank you. I want to always grow my soul, my spirit, my mind and my heart. Any product that advocates it's benefits as "Less You" should be taken off shelves.
http://www.pfpchallenge.com/Partners.aspx?partner=MultigrainCheerios
http://www.pfpchallenge.com/Partners.aspx?partner=MultigrainCheerios
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Rewind, and.... Play.
Is it December already? Ohhhh my goodness, please forgive my lack of updates recently! The last three months or so have been extremely busy... and now the holidays are approaching, and that is never a formula for lower stress-levels. :) But I am very much looking forward to this holiday season, and time spent with friends and family. The nice thing about living so far away from the home I grew up in, is that around Thanksgiving and Christmas, it is even more meaningful to be able to connect with friends you don't see any longer on a daily basis.
Okay, quick recap? I can't fully describe all events in detail (unless you're up for a short novel... except it wouldn't be a novel, really, because this all DID happen, I can assure you!)
OH, and please forgive any spelling mistakes. This entry is just way too long to catch them all, and life is too short to correct all the mistakes. We more FORWARD!
SEPTMEBER! After a great night at home in MI for the Celebration of Life (our first fundraiser), it was on to-
Chicago, IL- I was invited to speak at Windy City Community church. Pastor Steve and his wife Denise have an awesome ministry there. I was able to sing with their worship band on Sunday morning, speak briefly in both services, and have a luncheon with the middle and high school girls and their leaders. It was hilarious, as a joke, they all dressed in evening gowns (like, halloween costume-Salvation Army style, it was RAD!) to greet me at lunch.... we had a good laugh. Because, didn't you know, Miss America wears an evening gown EVERYWHERE? At all times! Yeah, bugger, I didn't know that either. Guess I was underdressed.
Sunday evening was a program offered to the whole community, I was able to speak, and then answer questions alongside two professionals (nutritionist and therapist) from the Chicago area. It was great to be able to have those resources available for the attendees. We did a long autograph signing and photo session afterward, and it was heartwarming to meet many of the people who came out, several of them being individuals with whom the Foundation has been corresponding with via email, trying to connect them to resources. How great to meet them, face to face, and share a hug. :)
Washington, D.C.,- where I bunked with my dear friend Kathleen MacDonald, policy assistant for the Eating Disorders Coalition and invaluable board member of KHF, for Lobby Day training and work day! It was my Mom's first time to Lobby on the Hill... what a learning experience it was for her! Go MOM!
Back to LA- The Friday morning after Lobby Day I was up bright and early to get to Venice beach, for an IAEDP (International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals), Los Angeles Chapter event. It was actually REALLY neat; they had a photographer come, for whom I 'posed'... we did a before (NO makeup, no touch-ups), and after (hair and makeup) shot, after which he put them both up on a huge monitor. He then demonstrated how photographer and editor view and change, re-touch and sharpen images, deleting lines and wrinkles here, raising a hairline there, eliminating a blemish there and there and there, lightening the skin, etc., etc., etc.,... in order to 'finish' the image, fit for print. It is always so helpful to see the journey of the photograph from when it is taken to when it is all "Done." Continuing to remind us, that the images we are bombarded with everyday from the media, television, and advertising are simply not real. And that may not ever really change, but it is important for us to know that and be able to tell the difference: Images, two dimensional. Human Beings, 3-D. He also showed the editing journey with a photo of Jane Fonda... which was excellent, and of a young actress on Entourage, whose face was full of breakouts (he said she was extremely self-conscious), and yet she was transformed to a clear-skinned beauty. Amazing, isn't it?
Then I flew to New York- to be a guest on FOX News, Sean Hannity's Great American Panel. Besides my driver from the airport to the hotel (the Muse... gorgeous!) getting pulled over, and me walking the rest of the way to my hotel in the rain... at 11pm... it was a great trip! :) As is protocol with these shows, I received the 'topics' for discussion for the evenings show the morning of, and spent my day researching and writing my opinions. Of course, as fate would have it, 10 sensational things occured in the world before lunch time, and so the topics changed by mid-morning. But I love to research and analyze and write, so I had a fun day holed up in my hotel room studying. It ended up being a great show, Sean is really a wonderful guy. How neat to meet Rick Santorum (former Senator from Pennsylvania) as well, fellow panelist, who was all open ears about my Foundation and our work. It turns out that he empathizes very well with those struggling and recognizes the seriousness of the issue. Wish he was still fighting with us on Capitol Hill! The FREED Bill needs him! Fox is always a great time, and Sean invited me back! I'll be on again Monday, 21 December... looking forward to it!
I forgot to mention... Did I tell y'all that I'm making a Golf Workout DVD? I shot it at Warwick Hills the day after my fundraiser with PGA Golf Pro and Instructor Jay Golden... its going through the final editing process right now... I'll give you updates as they come along. :)
OCTOBER!
Back to LA... La Ventana (ED treatment center and transitional living on several campuses around LA and Malibu) was kind enough to host a fundraiser for KHF at Westlake Village Country Club, near Malibu. It was a BEAUTIFUL venue, great food, and wonderful silent auction items! My friend Paige (founder of Paige Premium Denim) donated too, to our silent auction. And did I mention I saw our jean, that will be going into production soon? I can't say too much, but I saw the distinctive pocket design, and all the washes it will be offered in; we're looking forward to a February 2010 launch, in time for the Spring line and Eating Disorders Awareness Month! I'll keep you posted! I spoke and Mom sold merchandise... it was a lovely event.
Germany! I really could write a book about this trip. Especially the fiasco that preceded it, upon realizing at 5am the morning of our flight from Detroit to Atlanta to Stuttgart, that I had quite conveniently left my passport in my quilted laptop bag. In Los Angeles. 3,000 miles away. To make a long story short, I have an angel of a friend who awoke at 2 am to meet the locksmith at my apartment as they drilled out my deadbolt. He rushed my passport to the Delta Dash at LAX and sent it off on a plane to meet me in Atlanta during our short hour and a half layover. I could hear the William Tell Overture playing in my head as I sprinted off that first plane, through the ridiculous amount of terminals at Atlanta airport, past security, OUTSIDE the building to the Delta Dash counter to pick up my little blue book. Made it back through security JUST IN TIME. It was truly nuts.
In Germany, I stayed with a lovely host couple in Renningen, outside Stuttgart. After a grueling two-hour press conference in the city the first morning, I realized that this whole "speaking with an interpreter" thing was going to be much more difficult than I had imagined. After a few of my many planned speaking engagements though, I began to get the hang of it. You have to speak two sentences at a time! And sometimes the Europeans just don't get my sense of humor. And other times, they really did, when my American compatriots were looking at me like I was crazy. No worries. I guess you can only be funny in one culture at a time.
I was able to speak at several schools, both high school and middle school, at a huge youth event in Karlsruhe, at a city event in Stuttgart, and in Fussen (South in the Alps, right on the border of Austria). It was a great lesson in letting go of control, in that you can say what you will, but ultimately your words and your message and sincerity are in the hands of the interpreter, and you cannot control that, at all. I just had to trust that God was going to make clear what he wanted to make clear. It was truly an amazing trip though, the people were wonderfully warm and engaging, the country itself is so beautiful, rich in history and culture, and I didn't want to leave! The food and wine were excellent as well. :) I can never get too much pumpkin soup and Wellness Flakes (like Kashi... but better!)
At the end of our trip we visited Strasbourg, in the Alsace region of Eastern France. I was in heaven. For those of you that know me, you know I am a total Francophile, and speak a bit of French. What a surprise and joy when, I swear it was something in the air, all my French came right back to me! I visited Nathalie (a French young woman my age who stayed at our house for one summer during high school) and her parents; they took us to see the Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, took us on La Bateau-Mouche to see the city from the river, we dined on Tartes Flambees, and had a simply marvelous time. I adore that city. France is everything you would ever think it would be; from the art lining the cobblestone streets, to the garlands hanging along the street fronts; the accordian players serenading passersby, a love song in the air, renaissance architecture all preserved, and yet very modern health conscious bikers and runners taking advantage of the sunshine. It truly is magical.
The great thing about Europe is there relationship with food and mealtimes. Not that any culture or country has a perfect 'food ideal' (NOBODY'S perfect, remember?), but it was so refreshing to dine without labels of FAT-FREE, no calories, and eat whole, fresh foods, milk from the farm down the street, no preservatives, and no comments of guilt and shame related to the food. What a pleasure not to have to rush during mealtimes, even when you're on a 'schedule.' It was very very nice.
I then flew to New York City to visit my brother and his fiancee, Nicole for a few days. I stayed in their charming but teeny Manhattan apartment, and we caught up and prepared for our auditions! Since getting a theatre agent out here in LA, I've been going back and forth to NY for auditions/callbacks. After great showings and callbacks for both A Chorus Line (National Tour) and the Broadway revival of La Cage... I'm starting to feel like this is where I belong. I had kind of a heartbreaking situation with Chorus Line... that I can't talk in detail about. But it was going to be good. But... God has a plan!
Los Angeles- where I spoke on a panel at the College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita. There was a showing of Diane Israel's film, BeautyMark, and then a panel discussion including Diane, myself, and two other ED specialists with Q and A. We had a great turnout of college students... at least 300! A great Love Your Body, Rock the World message going on there. :)
I rounded out the month in Sacramento, CA- I spoke three schools, middle and high schools. This was around Halloween too, so I was met by audiences full of Scream villians, Sponge-Bob Squarepants', and fruit (I swear, one guy was dressed up as a banana). I did local media, television and radio related to Eating Disorders (great message at Halloween), and spent the evening at a community event where I spoke briefly, but mostly signed autographs and hung out with kids in their costumes (I wore a black witches' hat. Good enough.)
Sunday morning I spoke in both services at Bayside West Covenant Church, and following the services, spoke at a luncheon for the church's young women and their mom's. THAT was a great talk, as we spoke not only about the pressures they face related to body image, but also discussed that in terms of spirituality and what it means to be a Christian woman in today's culture; those pressures, realities and struggles. A REALLY great day.
NOVEMBER! Almost done, I swear.
This month thankfully, slowed down a bit. Whew!
I flew back to New York for a few callback, and then to Atlanta, GA- I helped out my good friend, Genie Burnett for her weekend of MANNA Fundraisers (her organization, the Manna Scholarship Fund, has the same mission and purpose as KHF). It was a weekend of beautiful art (at a lovely auction), more speaking and sharing with several audiences, and good sushi. This was also my first time in the Buckhead area, I stayed at the Mansion across from Lenox Square, and I LOVED it! Autumn leaves were falling and the air was crisp... it was truly beautiful. Not to mention, my Mom and I got some good shopping in. :)
Ann Arbor, MI- I flew back home to speak at St. Joseph/Mercy hospital for an educational/women's outreach event on Eating Disorders, offering stories of home and connecting women to resources. It was great to see my good friend from the Academy of Eating Disorders, Judith Banker, again, and again, many of the young girls/women who have contacted me via facebook and email were in attendance.
I was then in Philadelphia, PA for the Thanksgiving Day Parade, was able to perform ( "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus") and not freeze my tail off (unlike last year's cold, it was a mild 55 degrees! Go Philly!), and catch up with my DEAR traveling companion from my year on the road as Miss America, Julie Hoffman. I was home by Thanksgiving evening though! So I didn't miss turkey and potatoes. :) It was as good a feast as ever.
And now I'm parked back here in sunny California. I had a director's callback for the Toronto original cast of Rock of Ages yesterday, Jersey Boys audition Monday, so lots of work to keep at!
The Foundation is also so very excited to make a big announcement... which, while details are being finalized, will have to wait for next entry. Now that I got all of those updates out of the way, I can from now on pledge to offer more concise and more witty patter. Enjoy this holiday season, and I'll talk (or write) again soon.
Much love and peace, (I sound like the Dalai Lama)
Kirsten
Okay, quick recap? I can't fully describe all events in detail (unless you're up for a short novel... except it wouldn't be a novel, really, because this all DID happen, I can assure you!)
OH, and please forgive any spelling mistakes. This entry is just way too long to catch them all, and life is too short to correct all the mistakes. We more FORWARD!
SEPTMEBER! After a great night at home in MI for the Celebration of Life (our first fundraiser), it was on to-
Chicago, IL- I was invited to speak at Windy City Community church. Pastor Steve and his wife Denise have an awesome ministry there. I was able to sing with their worship band on Sunday morning, speak briefly in both services, and have a luncheon with the middle and high school girls and their leaders. It was hilarious, as a joke, they all dressed in evening gowns (like, halloween costume-Salvation Army style, it was RAD!) to greet me at lunch.... we had a good laugh. Because, didn't you know, Miss America wears an evening gown EVERYWHERE? At all times! Yeah, bugger, I didn't know that either. Guess I was underdressed.
Sunday evening was a program offered to the whole community, I was able to speak, and then answer questions alongside two professionals (nutritionist and therapist) from the Chicago area. It was great to be able to have those resources available for the attendees. We did a long autograph signing and photo session afterward, and it was heartwarming to meet many of the people who came out, several of them being individuals with whom the Foundation has been corresponding with via email, trying to connect them to resources. How great to meet them, face to face, and share a hug. :)
Washington, D.C.,- where I bunked with my dear friend Kathleen MacDonald, policy assistant for the Eating Disorders Coalition and invaluable board member of KHF, for Lobby Day training and work day! It was my Mom's first time to Lobby on the Hill... what a learning experience it was for her! Go MOM!
Back to LA- The Friday morning after Lobby Day I was up bright and early to get to Venice beach, for an IAEDP (International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals), Los Angeles Chapter event. It was actually REALLY neat; they had a photographer come, for whom I 'posed'... we did a before (NO makeup, no touch-ups), and after (hair and makeup) shot, after which he put them both up on a huge monitor. He then demonstrated how photographer and editor view and change, re-touch and sharpen images, deleting lines and wrinkles here, raising a hairline there, eliminating a blemish there and there and there, lightening the skin, etc., etc., etc.,... in order to 'finish' the image, fit for print. It is always so helpful to see the journey of the photograph from when it is taken to when it is all "Done." Continuing to remind us, that the images we are bombarded with everyday from the media, television, and advertising are simply not real. And that may not ever really change, but it is important for us to know that and be able to tell the difference: Images, two dimensional. Human Beings, 3-D. He also showed the editing journey with a photo of Jane Fonda... which was excellent, and of a young actress on Entourage, whose face was full of breakouts (he said she was extremely self-conscious), and yet she was transformed to a clear-skinned beauty. Amazing, isn't it?
Then I flew to New York- to be a guest on FOX News, Sean Hannity's Great American Panel. Besides my driver from the airport to the hotel (the Muse... gorgeous!) getting pulled over, and me walking the rest of the way to my hotel in the rain... at 11pm... it was a great trip! :) As is protocol with these shows, I received the 'topics' for discussion for the evenings show the morning of, and spent my day researching and writing my opinions. Of course, as fate would have it, 10 sensational things occured in the world before lunch time, and so the topics changed by mid-morning. But I love to research and analyze and write, so I had a fun day holed up in my hotel room studying. It ended up being a great show, Sean is really a wonderful guy. How neat to meet Rick Santorum (former Senator from Pennsylvania) as well, fellow panelist, who was all open ears about my Foundation and our work. It turns out that he empathizes very well with those struggling and recognizes the seriousness of the issue. Wish he was still fighting with us on Capitol Hill! The FREED Bill needs him! Fox is always a great time, and Sean invited me back! I'll be on again Monday, 21 December... looking forward to it!
I forgot to mention... Did I tell y'all that I'm making a Golf Workout DVD? I shot it at Warwick Hills the day after my fundraiser with PGA Golf Pro and Instructor Jay Golden... its going through the final editing process right now... I'll give you updates as they come along. :)
OCTOBER!
Back to LA... La Ventana (ED treatment center and transitional living on several campuses around LA and Malibu) was kind enough to host a fundraiser for KHF at Westlake Village Country Club, near Malibu. It was a BEAUTIFUL venue, great food, and wonderful silent auction items! My friend Paige (founder of Paige Premium Denim) donated too, to our silent auction. And did I mention I saw our jean, that will be going into production soon? I can't say too much, but I saw the distinctive pocket design, and all the washes it will be offered in; we're looking forward to a February 2010 launch, in time for the Spring line and Eating Disorders Awareness Month! I'll keep you posted! I spoke and Mom sold merchandise... it was a lovely event.
Germany! I really could write a book about this trip. Especially the fiasco that preceded it, upon realizing at 5am the morning of our flight from Detroit to Atlanta to Stuttgart, that I had quite conveniently left my passport in my quilted laptop bag. In Los Angeles. 3,000 miles away. To make a long story short, I have an angel of a friend who awoke at 2 am to meet the locksmith at my apartment as they drilled out my deadbolt. He rushed my passport to the Delta Dash at LAX and sent it off on a plane to meet me in Atlanta during our short hour and a half layover. I could hear the William Tell Overture playing in my head as I sprinted off that first plane, through the ridiculous amount of terminals at Atlanta airport, past security, OUTSIDE the building to the Delta Dash counter to pick up my little blue book. Made it back through security JUST IN TIME. It was truly nuts.
In Germany, I stayed with a lovely host couple in Renningen, outside Stuttgart. After a grueling two-hour press conference in the city the first morning, I realized that this whole "speaking with an interpreter" thing was going to be much more difficult than I had imagined. After a few of my many planned speaking engagements though, I began to get the hang of it. You have to speak two sentences at a time! And sometimes the Europeans just don't get my sense of humor. And other times, they really did, when my American compatriots were looking at me like I was crazy. No worries. I guess you can only be funny in one culture at a time.
I was able to speak at several schools, both high school and middle school, at a huge youth event in Karlsruhe, at a city event in Stuttgart, and in Fussen (South in the Alps, right on the border of Austria). It was a great lesson in letting go of control, in that you can say what you will, but ultimately your words and your message and sincerity are in the hands of the interpreter, and you cannot control that, at all. I just had to trust that God was going to make clear what he wanted to make clear. It was truly an amazing trip though, the people were wonderfully warm and engaging, the country itself is so beautiful, rich in history and culture, and I didn't want to leave! The food and wine were excellent as well. :) I can never get too much pumpkin soup and Wellness Flakes (like Kashi... but better!)
At the end of our trip we visited Strasbourg, in the Alsace region of Eastern France. I was in heaven. For those of you that know me, you know I am a total Francophile, and speak a bit of French. What a surprise and joy when, I swear it was something in the air, all my French came right back to me! I visited Nathalie (a French young woman my age who stayed at our house for one summer during high school) and her parents; they took us to see the Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, took us on La Bateau-Mouche to see the city from the river, we dined on Tartes Flambees, and had a simply marvelous time. I adore that city. France is everything you would ever think it would be; from the art lining the cobblestone streets, to the garlands hanging along the street fronts; the accordian players serenading passersby, a love song in the air, renaissance architecture all preserved, and yet very modern health conscious bikers and runners taking advantage of the sunshine. It truly is magical.
The great thing about Europe is there relationship with food and mealtimes. Not that any culture or country has a perfect 'food ideal' (NOBODY'S perfect, remember?), but it was so refreshing to dine without labels of FAT-FREE, no calories, and eat whole, fresh foods, milk from the farm down the street, no preservatives, and no comments of guilt and shame related to the food. What a pleasure not to have to rush during mealtimes, even when you're on a 'schedule.' It was very very nice.
I then flew to New York City to visit my brother and his fiancee, Nicole for a few days. I stayed in their charming but teeny Manhattan apartment, and we caught up and prepared for our auditions! Since getting a theatre agent out here in LA, I've been going back and forth to NY for auditions/callbacks. After great showings and callbacks for both A Chorus Line (National Tour) and the Broadway revival of La Cage... I'm starting to feel like this is where I belong. I had kind of a heartbreaking situation with Chorus Line... that I can't talk in detail about. But it was going to be good. But... God has a plan!
Los Angeles- where I spoke on a panel at the College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita. There was a showing of Diane Israel's film, BeautyMark, and then a panel discussion including Diane, myself, and two other ED specialists with Q and A. We had a great turnout of college students... at least 300! A great Love Your Body, Rock the World message going on there. :)
I rounded out the month in Sacramento, CA- I spoke three schools, middle and high schools. This was around Halloween too, so I was met by audiences full of Scream villians, Sponge-Bob Squarepants', and fruit (I swear, one guy was dressed up as a banana). I did local media, television and radio related to Eating Disorders (great message at Halloween), and spent the evening at a community event where I spoke briefly, but mostly signed autographs and hung out with kids in their costumes (I wore a black witches' hat. Good enough.)
Sunday morning I spoke in both services at Bayside West Covenant Church, and following the services, spoke at a luncheon for the church's young women and their mom's. THAT was a great talk, as we spoke not only about the pressures they face related to body image, but also discussed that in terms of spirituality and what it means to be a Christian woman in today's culture; those pressures, realities and struggles. A REALLY great day.
NOVEMBER! Almost done, I swear.
This month thankfully, slowed down a bit. Whew!
I flew back to New York for a few callback, and then to Atlanta, GA- I helped out my good friend, Genie Burnett for her weekend of MANNA Fundraisers (her organization, the Manna Scholarship Fund, has the same mission and purpose as KHF). It was a weekend of beautiful art (at a lovely auction), more speaking and sharing with several audiences, and good sushi. This was also my first time in the Buckhead area, I stayed at the Mansion across from Lenox Square, and I LOVED it! Autumn leaves were falling and the air was crisp... it was truly beautiful. Not to mention, my Mom and I got some good shopping in. :)
Ann Arbor, MI- I flew back home to speak at St. Joseph/Mercy hospital for an educational/women's outreach event on Eating Disorders, offering stories of home and connecting women to resources. It was great to see my good friend from the Academy of Eating Disorders, Judith Banker, again, and again, many of the young girls/women who have contacted me via facebook and email were in attendance.
I was then in Philadelphia, PA for the Thanksgiving Day Parade, was able to perform ( "I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus") and not freeze my tail off (unlike last year's cold, it was a mild 55 degrees! Go Philly!), and catch up with my DEAR traveling companion from my year on the road as Miss America, Julie Hoffman. I was home by Thanksgiving evening though! So I didn't miss turkey and potatoes. :) It was as good a feast as ever.
And now I'm parked back here in sunny California. I had a director's callback for the Toronto original cast of Rock of Ages yesterday, Jersey Boys audition Monday, so lots of work to keep at!
The Foundation is also so very excited to make a big announcement... which, while details are being finalized, will have to wait for next entry. Now that I got all of those updates out of the way, I can from now on pledge to offer more concise and more witty patter. Enjoy this holiday season, and I'll talk (or write) again soon.
Much love and peace, (I sound like the Dalai Lama)
Kirsten
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Living alone no longer!
I have the most precious little bundle of fur curled up in my lap right now.
I just adopted a kitten! My friend Eric found her and her 'sibling' on the side of the road while shooting a television show out in the desert... abandoned... and so brought the two little kittens home so that they could find loving owners. I had NO intention of taking one home. And then I saw them. And the rest is history.
I am 95% sure she is a she. I took her to the vet today and they couldn't totally tell because she's not even two months old (and therefore must be a little Virgo like me). But, the doctor said she was pretty sure my little cat was a girl: and if not, I'm going to have a male cat named Sophie with an ivory collar with a sparkly bow. Aka... one very unhappy, emasculated feline. Then I'll have to change her name. Ughh. I really like Sophie. But alas, like a Boy Named Sue, a Boy cat named Sophie would really get beat up psychologically over time. So if she turns out to be a he (VERY unlikely), I've decided to name him Elliot. Because I love British names and I think that one is adorable.
She is so TINY! Even the vet said they rarely see them into the office that small. She's not even a pound! And she is the most well-behaved perfect little thing; she eats and drinks and just sits in my hand or on my shoulder and doesn't cry or make a fuss... and even a DOG walked into the vet waiting room, right by her, while she was sitting on my lap, and she remained appropriately aloof and unaffected. Princess indeed.
Okay, enough of being a proud pet owner. I apologize. But she is pretty dang cute.
I'm back in Los Angeles now after several weeks of travel and appearances. I do have to go all the way back to the beginning, and tell about my CELEBRATION OF LIFE!!! Which was amazing!
But, I have to go get some things out of the laundry and send a fax (info for the Philly Thanksgiving Day Parade, which I will be singing and dancing in again this year.). So I'll have to tell those stories next post.
But I HAD to at least tell about my new kitty.
Peace. (And that is "Peace" as like, "Namaste," not "Peace" as in, "Peace out, Brotha"... trust me, I know that I am quite white. :)
Kirsten
I just adopted a kitten! My friend Eric found her and her 'sibling' on the side of the road while shooting a television show out in the desert... abandoned... and so brought the two little kittens home so that they could find loving owners. I had NO intention of taking one home. And then I saw them. And the rest is history.
I am 95% sure she is a she. I took her to the vet today and they couldn't totally tell because she's not even two months old (and therefore must be a little Virgo like me). But, the doctor said she was pretty sure my little cat was a girl: and if not, I'm going to have a male cat named Sophie with an ivory collar with a sparkly bow. Aka... one very unhappy, emasculated feline. Then I'll have to change her name. Ughh. I really like Sophie. But alas, like a Boy Named Sue, a Boy cat named Sophie would really get beat up psychologically over time. So if she turns out to be a he (VERY unlikely), I've decided to name him Elliot. Because I love British names and I think that one is adorable.
She is so TINY! Even the vet said they rarely see them into the office that small. She's not even a pound! And she is the most well-behaved perfect little thing; she eats and drinks and just sits in my hand or on my shoulder and doesn't cry or make a fuss... and even a DOG walked into the vet waiting room, right by her, while she was sitting on my lap, and she remained appropriately aloof and unaffected. Princess indeed.
Okay, enough of being a proud pet owner. I apologize. But she is pretty dang cute.
I'm back in Los Angeles now after several weeks of travel and appearances. I do have to go all the way back to the beginning, and tell about my CELEBRATION OF LIFE!!! Which was amazing!
But, I have to go get some things out of the laundry and send a fax (info for the Philly Thanksgiving Day Parade, which I will be singing and dancing in again this year.). So I'll have to tell those stories next post.
But I HAD to at least tell about my new kitty.
Peace. (And that is "Peace" as like, "Namaste," not "Peace" as in, "Peace out, Brotha"... trust me, I know that I am quite white. :)
Kirsten
Monday, September 28, 2009
TUNE-IN ALERT! :)
Make sure to tune-in to "Hannity" tonight, on Fox News!
I'll be making an appearance as a guest contributor on the Great American Panel. The show starts at 9pm EST, and runs until 10pmEST. Hope you'll check it out!
It's been a great couple weeks of traveling! I will be sharing lots of great updates and cool stories about the last few weeks soon, including the low-down on A Celebration of Life! The event went absolutely beautifully, and it was so nice to see so many family, friends and fans come out for the evening to celebrate a birthday, life, and the continued awareness of eating disorders. The battle for true beauty and healthy body-image rages on!!! Thank you so much to everyone who was in attendance, and those of you who sent your support via email, text message, and twitter from afar. :) More details to come...
Love,
K
I'll be making an appearance as a guest contributor on the Great American Panel. The show starts at 9pm EST, and runs until 10pmEST. Hope you'll check it out!
It's been a great couple weeks of traveling! I will be sharing lots of great updates and cool stories about the last few weeks soon, including the low-down on A Celebration of Life! The event went absolutely beautifully, and it was so nice to see so many family, friends and fans come out for the evening to celebrate a birthday, life, and the continued awareness of eating disorders. The battle for true beauty and healthy body-image rages on!!! Thank you so much to everyone who was in attendance, and those of you who sent your support via email, text message, and twitter from afar. :) More details to come...
Love,
K
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Blame the Red Shoes, the Red Dress, and the Red Carpet
Happy Sunday everyone.... Hope you're taking some time to rest today.
I'm getting super excited as I pack up my things to come home to Michigan for the KHF's fundraiser on Wednesday! "A Celebration of Life" is going to be a wine-tasting, 'birthday' fundraiser for the Foundation (our first), at Andiamo in Novi... tickets are on sale on the website, so if you're planning on coming (and I hope you are!) you can still get your tickets! Of course, you can purchase tickets at the door too. All of the funds raised during the evening (there's a silent auction as well) will go to providing scholarships for eating disorders treatment, so it is a good, nay, a wonderful cause! I hope to see you there!
I want to personally thank everyone who HAS already made a commitment to come, and is helping in the preparation for this event. There are so many hands helping and giving so lovingly of their time and sweat and patience so that this all comes together. I can't wait to celebrate with you, with a heart full of gratitude.
Another kind of exciting thing; I've been doing some recording out here in LA, and am looking forward to potentially launching a few singles on iTunes. One of these songs I'm going to debut at the fundraiser! So we've got a little entertainment going down as well. :)
It's going to be a busy week of traveling; after the big event Wednesday evening, I'm heading to Chicago, IL to speak and spend the day at Windy City Community Church. From there I head to Washington, D.C., where I'll be spending a day lobbying with the Eating Disorders Coalition again for the F.R.E.E.D. Bill (check it out at www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org); as health care is at the forefront of U.S. domestic policy right now, we're very optimistic about garnering even more support for this Bill as it heads (hopefully quickly) through the House and Senate on its way to becoming a LAW. Wish us luck!
From D.C., I come back to LA (with Mom on board), where I'll be doing a really neat event in Venice on the 25th. More to come on that.
So enough about the future. At present, I'm trying to enjoy the present. :) I found this really great book called Proverbs and it has been kicking my butt the last couple weeks.
Oh yeah! I attended the Creative Arts Emmys yesterday. The day was a blast, minus the bloated running time of the awards ceremony. And my embarrassing self... the group of girls I went with arrived a teensy bit late (shoe indecision on behalf of more than one of our party and a baby) and so we had to stand in the back upon arrival and wait for an appropriate time to be seated. We wait and wait and wait... and I with the bladder-the-size-of-a-walnut, decide this might be the opportune moment (to quote Captain Jack Sparrow) to use the Ladies' Room. Who knows when the show's going to end anyway (and since it's televised, no intermission)? Can you tell I'm thinking way too much here? So I make sure I have my ticket and slip out. I come back to the theatre a few minutes later (much more optimistic now about sitting for potentially 4 hours), show my ticket, and then realize that the girls are gone; must have gone to their seats in my absence. This is fine, until I look at my ticket and realize we're in the SIXTH row. F 106 to be exact, right in the middle of that 6th row, too. So I told you, no commercial breaks (it was being taped), no intermission, and a sea of Hollywood, creative types in black suits and black-rimmed glasses all comfortably watching Kathy Griffin cavort around onstage, all sitting in their seats. This is just peachy unless you have to walk all the way down the aisle during the show, toward the stage, ALL the way down to the 6th row, and make everyone stand by saying, "'Scuse me, 'scuse me, excuse me, I am SO SO sorry" shuffling awkwardly to the middle of the row and make a total scene by trying not to make a scene. Which is what I had to do. And Tina Fey is sitting like, two rows in front of me. I'm thinking, "Oh goodness, who is watching me inconvenience a whole row of people way more important than I am right now?" Oh, you know, just the creators, cast and crews, casting directors, hair and makeup people of all my favorite shows: LOST, The Tudors, 30 Rock, SNL to name a few, plus all the network execs and anybody who has any power in the world of television. NO BIGGIE. I mean, it's no big deal, of course, really, but for that second, I felt really really silly. Stupid bladder.
AT LEAST... the redeeming detail... I was wearing my red Christian Louboutin's. And when you're wearing Christian Louboutin's, you can do no wrong. The woman in the red dress with the red shoes makes the rules, in my book. And so, in retrospection I say, WHATever seat warmers residing comfortably in row F! I will not apologize for my bladder or lateness or my presence. I will only say thank you for playing a part in a mildly humorous story in my blog; where Kirsten makes fun of her insecurity and displays again that we're all human (thank God).
Highlights of the evening included seeing Elaine Stritch perform a hilarious musical tribute to Sheila Nevins (creator of over 500 HBO Documentaries, and winner of the Governor's Award), Carol Burnett, Tina Fey's win for her spoof of Sarah Palin... but truly touching was seeing the countless individuals behind the scenes rewarded for their incredible efforts. So much of the time, the actors receive the credit/admiration for that which is really created by the unimaginably difficult, time consuming, and truly magical work of the editors, sound mixers, hair and makeup artists, costume designers, etc., As an actor myself I will not say that we do not work hard. Extremely hard. But it was just really nice to see the creative artists be congratulated in such a special way. And you thought the Primetime Emmys were the only Emmys...
After a long, but entertaining show, the gals and I headed next door to the LA Convention Center with the slew of other brilliant audience members (we're all brilliant in our own way... I convince myself of this everyday... especially when I'm stressing about the really BAD driver in front of me in LA traffic) for the after party! There was even a red carpet for the after-party. Albeit, not as plushy. This one wasn't red shag, it was more like red astro-turf. But I digress. The ladies and I got way too many pictures. How blessed I felt when, in not one of those pictures did the equation red carpet+numerous photo opportunities+ 'event'+ dressy outfit and heels= me wearing a crown. YAY! We did feel kind of awkward however, when we all lined up and upon looking for someone to take a picture ended up having to ask the guy who, upon turning around, has a shiny gold trophy (cough cough EMMY) in his hand. Ooops... "Yes, excuse me sir, I know you're celebrating having just had your life's work awarded onstage in front of thousands of the best of the best in your field but... can you take a picture of 6 girls? Oh thanks. I know that's exactly what you wanted to do right now. Here, I'll even hold that gold lady holding a bunch of strange orbiting circular objects while you press the button on my digital camera. OMG, you're the BEST!" But he was nice enough, and he did. It did allow me to see one of those lovely trophies up close though... they're huge! Dude, I wonder if they're super heavy? I was also wondering later at the Ball, if anyone ever left or forgot their Emmy/Oscar/Grammy/other statuette of significance under their chair at one of those after parties. My logic is... you know how if you acquire something somewhere that you didn't come in with, it's not part of your routine in making sure you 'have it,' with you, and so your just kinda forget about it sometimes? Well you certainly didn't come down the red carpet with that trophy in hand. And especially as a lady, it's not going to fit in your inconveniently sized, no-room-for-anything-you-REALLY-need clutch, so its very likely that you could forget about it by the end of the night, and (GASP!) leave without it. Unless you're like, Meryl Streep and leave the afterparty every year with one in tow. Then you're not likely to forget your buddy Oscar. Anyway... just a thought. Lucky waiter/busboy with the summer job at the LA Convention Center. :)
So after a lovely dinner of $40 salad (I don't know what it was really called. I renamed it.), braised pot roast (it was SO tender) and carrots and fried mac and cheese... oh and a chocolate snowball-shaped thing (again, I don't know the proper name... oh wait, yes; dessert), we mingled and schmoozed (with each other mostly) and drove home. The excellent thing about this award shows and parties also is that everything is so organized and parking was so close and convenient! LA does everything the best. It was truly a great, fun, day, and I got to spend it with wonderful friends. Happy happy joy joy.
I'm sure there have been other uplifting, wonderful things that have happened this past week, but to be honest my brain is kind of fried and I don't feel like typing anymore! I am going to go enjoy my Sunday away from the computer with friends, and continue to pack and plan for this blessing of a week and adventure coming up. I can't wait to see you all on Wednesday! :)
Thank you for bearing with me as I make up words, share mind ramblings, and attempt to make sense of life's little mysteries. Now go and make sense of your own. Or be at peace with them and be better than the rest of us. I feel lucky enough that when I'm in the control room panicking or trying to remember where all the stupid buttons are, that God is there to remind me that He's got it all figured out already and he's doing the hard work for me. He turns that big on/off switch on my 'mind' OFF if I'll only let him. The cool thing is, he will for you too. Go have a great day, see you soon.
Kirsten
I'm getting super excited as I pack up my things to come home to Michigan for the KHF's fundraiser on Wednesday! "A Celebration of Life" is going to be a wine-tasting, 'birthday' fundraiser for the Foundation (our first), at Andiamo in Novi... tickets are on sale on the website, so if you're planning on coming (and I hope you are!) you can still get your tickets! Of course, you can purchase tickets at the door too. All of the funds raised during the evening (there's a silent auction as well) will go to providing scholarships for eating disorders treatment, so it is a good, nay, a wonderful cause! I hope to see you there!
I want to personally thank everyone who HAS already made a commitment to come, and is helping in the preparation for this event. There are so many hands helping and giving so lovingly of their time and sweat and patience so that this all comes together. I can't wait to celebrate with you, with a heart full of gratitude.
Another kind of exciting thing; I've been doing some recording out here in LA, and am looking forward to potentially launching a few singles on iTunes. One of these songs I'm going to debut at the fundraiser! So we've got a little entertainment going down as well. :)
It's going to be a busy week of traveling; after the big event Wednesday evening, I'm heading to Chicago, IL to speak and spend the day at Windy City Community Church. From there I head to Washington, D.C., where I'll be spending a day lobbying with the Eating Disorders Coalition again for the F.R.E.E.D. Bill (check it out at www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org); as health care is at the forefront of U.S. domestic policy right now, we're very optimistic about garnering even more support for this Bill as it heads (hopefully quickly) through the House and Senate on its way to becoming a LAW. Wish us luck!
From D.C., I come back to LA (with Mom on board), where I'll be doing a really neat event in Venice on the 25th. More to come on that.
So enough about the future. At present, I'm trying to enjoy the present. :) I found this really great book called Proverbs and it has been kicking my butt the last couple weeks.
Oh yeah! I attended the Creative Arts Emmys yesterday. The day was a blast, minus the bloated running time of the awards ceremony. And my embarrassing self... the group of girls I went with arrived a teensy bit late (shoe indecision on behalf of more than one of our party and a baby) and so we had to stand in the back upon arrival and wait for an appropriate time to be seated. We wait and wait and wait... and I with the bladder-the-size-of-a-walnut, decide this might be the opportune moment (to quote Captain Jack Sparrow) to use the Ladies' Room. Who knows when the show's going to end anyway (and since it's televised, no intermission)? Can you tell I'm thinking way too much here? So I make sure I have my ticket and slip out. I come back to the theatre a few minutes later (much more optimistic now about sitting for potentially 4 hours), show my ticket, and then realize that the girls are gone; must have gone to their seats in my absence. This is fine, until I look at my ticket and realize we're in the SIXTH row. F 106 to be exact, right in the middle of that 6th row, too. So I told you, no commercial breaks (it was being taped), no intermission, and a sea of Hollywood, creative types in black suits and black-rimmed glasses all comfortably watching Kathy Griffin cavort around onstage, all sitting in their seats. This is just peachy unless you have to walk all the way down the aisle during the show, toward the stage, ALL the way down to the 6th row, and make everyone stand by saying, "'Scuse me, 'scuse me, excuse me, I am SO SO sorry" shuffling awkwardly to the middle of the row and make a total scene by trying not to make a scene. Which is what I had to do. And Tina Fey is sitting like, two rows in front of me. I'm thinking, "Oh goodness, who is watching me inconvenience a whole row of people way more important than I am right now?" Oh, you know, just the creators, cast and crews, casting directors, hair and makeup people of all my favorite shows: LOST, The Tudors, 30 Rock, SNL to name a few, plus all the network execs and anybody who has any power in the world of television. NO BIGGIE. I mean, it's no big deal, of course, really, but for that second, I felt really really silly. Stupid bladder.
AT LEAST... the redeeming detail... I was wearing my red Christian Louboutin's. And when you're wearing Christian Louboutin's, you can do no wrong. The woman in the red dress with the red shoes makes the rules, in my book. And so, in retrospection I say, WHATever seat warmers residing comfortably in row F! I will not apologize for my bladder or lateness or my presence. I will only say thank you for playing a part in a mildly humorous story in my blog; where Kirsten makes fun of her insecurity and displays again that we're all human (thank God).
Highlights of the evening included seeing Elaine Stritch perform a hilarious musical tribute to Sheila Nevins (creator of over 500 HBO Documentaries, and winner of the Governor's Award), Carol Burnett, Tina Fey's win for her spoof of Sarah Palin... but truly touching was seeing the countless individuals behind the scenes rewarded for their incredible efforts. So much of the time, the actors receive the credit/admiration for that which is really created by the unimaginably difficult, time consuming, and truly magical work of the editors, sound mixers, hair and makeup artists, costume designers, etc., As an actor myself I will not say that we do not work hard. Extremely hard. But it was just really nice to see the creative artists be congratulated in such a special way. And you thought the Primetime Emmys were the only Emmys...
After a long, but entertaining show, the gals and I headed next door to the LA Convention Center with the slew of other brilliant audience members (we're all brilliant in our own way... I convince myself of this everyday... especially when I'm stressing about the really BAD driver in front of me in LA traffic) for the after party! There was even a red carpet for the after-party. Albeit, not as plushy. This one wasn't red shag, it was more like red astro-turf. But I digress. The ladies and I got way too many pictures. How blessed I felt when, in not one of those pictures did the equation red carpet+numerous photo opportunities+ 'event'+ dressy outfit and heels= me wearing a crown. YAY! We did feel kind of awkward however, when we all lined up and upon looking for someone to take a picture ended up having to ask the guy who, upon turning around, has a shiny gold trophy (cough cough EMMY) in his hand. Ooops... "Yes, excuse me sir, I know you're celebrating having just had your life's work awarded onstage in front of thousands of the best of the best in your field but... can you take a picture of 6 girls? Oh thanks. I know that's exactly what you wanted to do right now. Here, I'll even hold that gold lady holding a bunch of strange orbiting circular objects while you press the button on my digital camera. OMG, you're the BEST!" But he was nice enough, and he did. It did allow me to see one of those lovely trophies up close though... they're huge! Dude, I wonder if they're super heavy? I was also wondering later at the Ball, if anyone ever left or forgot their Emmy/Oscar/Grammy/other statuette of significance under their chair at one of those after parties. My logic is... you know how if you acquire something somewhere that you didn't come in with, it's not part of your routine in making sure you 'have it,' with you, and so your just kinda forget about it sometimes? Well you certainly didn't come down the red carpet with that trophy in hand. And especially as a lady, it's not going to fit in your inconveniently sized, no-room-for-anything-you-REALLY-need clutch, so its very likely that you could forget about it by the end of the night, and (GASP!) leave without it. Unless you're like, Meryl Streep and leave the afterparty every year with one in tow. Then you're not likely to forget your buddy Oscar. Anyway... just a thought. Lucky waiter/busboy with the summer job at the LA Convention Center. :)
So after a lovely dinner of $40 salad (I don't know what it was really called. I renamed it.), braised pot roast (it was SO tender) and carrots and fried mac and cheese... oh and a chocolate snowball-shaped thing (again, I don't know the proper name... oh wait, yes; dessert), we mingled and schmoozed (with each other mostly) and drove home. The excellent thing about this award shows and parties also is that everything is so organized and parking was so close and convenient! LA does everything the best. It was truly a great, fun, day, and I got to spend it with wonderful friends. Happy happy joy joy.
I'm sure there have been other uplifting, wonderful things that have happened this past week, but to be honest my brain is kind of fried and I don't feel like typing anymore! I am going to go enjoy my Sunday away from the computer with friends, and continue to pack and plan for this blessing of a week and adventure coming up. I can't wait to see you all on Wednesday! :)
Thank you for bearing with me as I make up words, share mind ramblings, and attempt to make sense of life's little mysteries. Now go and make sense of your own. Or be at peace with them and be better than the rest of us. I feel lucky enough that when I'm in the control room panicking or trying to remember where all the stupid buttons are, that God is there to remind me that He's got it all figured out already and he's doing the hard work for me. He turns that big on/off switch on my 'mind' OFF if I'll only let him. The cool thing is, he will for you too. Go have a great day, see you soon.
Kirsten
Thursday, August 27, 2009
News Update!
TUNE-IN ALERT!!
Kirsten Haglund as...
News Contributor on the Great American Panel
HANNITY Show
Fox News
Monday, September 28th
Check it out! More details to come... :)
Love and hugs,
Kirsten
Kirsten Haglund as...
News Contributor on the Great American Panel
HANNITY Show
Fox News
Monday, September 28th
Check it out! More details to come... :)
Love and hugs,
Kirsten
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Interesting... Check it out!
These are just some little news updates I found today... Good stuff in here.
http://www.stylelist.com/blog/2009/06/15/british-vogue-editor-fights-size-zero-clothing-samples/
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,519843,00.html
Enjoy! One is more risque than the other... caution advised. :)
Kirsten
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Candle wax is SUPER fun to play with...
That title has absolutely NO relevance to what I'm going to talk about. But it is a universally accepted truth (to quote Jane Austen) nonetheless. Its the little things in life...
Details, details, details... That's what planning is all about, right? KHF just had a board meeting going over all of these little 'details' for our big fundraiser coming up on September 16th. I'm beginning to get very excited; we've already got 17 rooms booked at the Holiday Inn nearby, people traveling to come to our event! We're solidifying sponsorships and silent auction items... we're going to have some REALLY neat packages available... I can't wait to reveal them! It's going to be a beautiful night. :)
Is it already the end of Tuesday? Where is the week going? I had better not get ahead of myself. It seems sometimes my weekends are busier than my week days... perhaps that is because much of the business of show business happens through social networking (not the online version), and most social events and lunch meetings happen on the weekends! This past one was indeed fun... Saturday I went shopping for a new dress last minute (at Nordstrom Rack, which I realized, is totally AWESOME) for the Melrose Place Premiere Party that evening. The event was sponsored by AT&T, so in place of a red carpet, there was a BLUE carpet (the whole event was company colors, blue and orange). A good friend of mine who works at CBS pretty much put together the entire event, and what a job well done! It was a super fun evening, outdoors on Melrose Ave... where else? Celebrity spotting, Ashlee Simpson-Wentz who has a role on the show was in attendance, and I'm sure others, but honestly I didn't look too hard. The food was beautiful and very tasty... they had sorbet for dessert served inside the rinds of real lemons, pineapples, and coconuts. No chocolate fountain, however, which made me kind of sad. The only bummer of the evening was that there was no dancing, which I realize at these parties, there usually isn't. But when they're playing Lady Gaga, and you're in a dress and heels, DUDE you just wanna dance! I danced by myself a little and probably looked ridiculous, but proved that you can have a whole ton of fun by yourself, no alcohol involved. :)
Earlier that day I stopped by Whole Foods to pick up a few things, and after looking at the bill, realized why I don't shop at Whole Foods very often. Or at least, California Whole Foods'. You realize very quickly when you move to the big city just how AMAZING those midwest prices are. For everything. Seriously.
Sunday morning, I had the delight of one of the most beautiful church services... Well, the music at Hollywood Church is always awesome, so needless to say, the music was uplifting and GREAT. The sermon series the last few weeks has been about Heaven (which is always FUN)... and this final week was about our BODIES, and what they're going to look like, do, feel, in heaven; on the new earth. I won't go too much in depth, because I'm no theologian or pastor... but just the thought of living with God in a new, glorified body, free of any thought of acceptance, judgment, or restriction on that body was just incredibly enlightening. Of course, we can strive to feel that here on earth, but not every day will be perfect, and our world is still flawed, will always be flawed on the way it judges people based on outward appearance. Its amazing to think that one day we will live with God in perfect bodies that can go anywhere, do anything, glorifying God, forever and ever and ever. Dude. Heaven is SO worth that.
That afternoon I met a friend for lunch in Universal City... a friend who is also the CEO of a small record company. He introduced me to a wonderful producer and lyricist, they handed me a CD of three songs they had already written for me, and invited me to the recording studio to work the next day! I can't give away too many details, but I can say we put down one demo track, and I'll be back within the next few weeks laying down the others. Very exciting! God kind of just drops blessings into your lap sometimes, and while I've always loved music and wanted to pursue recording, I never imagine it would get started this soon! I'm just going to work hard and see what happens. I'll cross my fingers and let you know!
This is hilarious: So I was sitting on my balcony enjoying the sunny day today, when the loud rumbling of a waste truck passing by on Woodman Ave below me jolts me out of my otherwise peaceful thoughts. I look down, and its this big blue monstrosity... not your average green WM daily garbage truck... it was more of a big construction waste kind of truck. (Forgive me for not knowing the technical terms for these things.) What was FUNNY about this truck... was the name of the disposal company. I couldn't help but laugh as I saw it pass me... the emblem on the side, a four-pointed white crown, with company name printed in the middle: "Crown Disposal Co. Inc". I actually laughed out loud.... the 'lol' is appropriate to use here. I thought, "So that's the company that takes used crowns from has-beens." I guess if you're really sick of pageants and the last thing you want is to keep that silver sparkly thing around for future granddaughters to play dress up in, you call Crown Disposal Co., Inc. I guess that answers the question, too, of whether or not they're recyclable. Anyway... I laughed.
So tomorrow I have an audition for a co-star role on Melrose Place... should be interesting. Then it's business business business. Kind of wishing I was in Michigan for a very close family friend's wedding this weekend. But ah, that's life. I have a friend who works for the military in the desert out here in Cali who is coming to visit me, so that should keep my mind off of the matrimonial festivities that I'm otherwise missing. I love you, Bensch's! :)
With that, I'm going to watch an episode of LOST and go to sleep! Sweet dreams.
Can anyone recommend a good book? I'm looking for one...
Kirsten
Friday, August 21, 2009
A Lovely Day in Newport
First of all, I have to just say, Lost is the best show ever. And hulu.com is the greatest invention ever, as it allows us to enjoy all our favorite programming sans having to schedule time to park in front of the television, commercial breaks, and spending way too much money on past season DVD sets! I've been catching up on Season 3 as I sit and wait for my laundry to dry... and I bet you wanted to hear all about that, right? Right.
It's been a relaxing day, after one very hectic but wonderfully uplifting Thursday. I headed down to Newport Beach on Wednesday night after a meeting with church friends, to stay at the Balboa Bay Club and Resort the evening before my visit to Sober Living By the Sea. SLBS is a treatment facility that consists of a few different programs, including The Landing (Men's only Chemical Dependency), The Rose (Women's Only CD) and The Victorian (Eating Disorders). I realized as I pulled up to the hotel, got out of the car and smelled the salty ocean breeze just how lucky I was to live near the Pacific Ocean, and have the opportunity and ability to travel. A side note, I apologize.
Began the visit Thursday morning with coffee and a little orientation about SLBS and its history from Ryan, the centers' Director of Business Development and nicest guy, and Melissa Preshaw, from CRC Health group who flew in from the Cupertino, CA office. The morning consisted of tours of each of the facilities (Landing, Rose and Victorian), which are all actually homes on the Balboa Peninsula, where residents stay for the duration of their treatment. The homes were absolutely BEAUTIFUL, with large glass windows looking right out to the beach, stunning decor, and the most warm, loving, engaging staff. I was given schedules as an example of what their days are like... and I couldn't help but think to myself that it looked like fun! I know that is a borderline horrible-thing-to-say, but truly, what a blessing it is, or would be, to retreat to such a place, and spend all day, every day, caring for your soul and yourself; minus distractions, expectations, judgements, or other stresses. A complete retreat. Everyone needs that, to be sure. I suppose the answer is to find little moments of each day, time when you can do that in your regular life. In no way am I lessening the pain and struggle of the individuals in treatment there. But they are so extremely lucky to be in a place with such love, warmth, and specialized care. If only all those struggling with addiction and/or eating disorders had the resources to go to such a place for healing. Hence, the need for KHF and scholarships for treatment! I digress...
After touring each house, I was treated to a beautiful luncheon at a great little place called The Dock, where myself and another woman and SLBS Alumn were honored for our work in the field of eating disorder awareness and advocacy. In the presence of about 20 other eating disorders professionals from the beach community, I certainly felt very humbled. The meal was awesome though, calamari and... what's that salad called with the mozzarella, tomato and olive oil? Shoot, I forgot. Well, that one, for starters. Then came the most delicious Salmon on top of an asparagus risotto... delish! The great thing about salmon (as opposed to steak) is that when you ask for it well-done, the chef usually does it. Hence, the reason I don't bother ordering steaks out anymore. :) My mom does it well-done, what's your problem Mr. Iron Chef??
Following lunch, I had the opportunity to spend an hour with the women of The Rose and The Victorian in the living room at The Rose. It was so nice and informal. I sat on a comfy chair with the 15-20 women and spoke for about 40 minutes about my personal struggles, where I've been, where I am, and where I'm going. I'm struck by a wonderful and humbling realization every time I speak about this issue to people... that it is not my skills, or my talent, or my accomplishments, or any other measure of greatness or worth that enables me to connect with these other women, or make any kind of impact in any way. It is my flaws. It is my weaknesses. It is my humanity. And truly, I feel, it is God, using that weakness. There is tremendous power in honesty, disclosure, and the admitting of insecurity and vulnerability. Imperfection. It was a wonderful talk with those women. We then had about 20 minutes of open discussion and Q and A, where I was able to get to know them a little bit better, and share our lives and passions and pitfalls. We wrapped around 3pm and I didn't want to leave! I did leave however, with such a feeling of hope, for them, for me, and for the triumph of love and understanding over moments when it seems like our personal demons are certainly going to drag us over the edge. As it had been a cloudy morning, I left the Rose and the sun had come out... a little reminder that above the clouds the sun was always shining, and that whatever is darkness, always comes to the light.
I sadly left Newport and the beautiful Balboa Bay Resort (I wanted to stay another night SO badly! Dude, that hotel was gorgeous.)... but happily headed to Garden Grove, near Anaheim to have dinner with very close family friends. The daughter in this family I got to reunite with, after not having seen her for, gosh, I don't know, probably 10 years! She now lives in San Diego, teaching, but all the time I knew her, she was a star basketball player. As this was my first time seeing her since my experience as Miss America, I had a great time sharing with her stories of my abysmal showings of athleticism, both as I threw out the first pitch at Tiger Stadium for last year's season opener, and attempted to guard Kid Rock at Curtis Grandersons' Charity Basketball Game. She laughed. I laughed. Mind you, I wasn't laughing at the time. At least I didn't have to wear a crown and try to shoot hoops. Now, THAT would have been embarrassing.
And then I drove home. Exciting, I know. And crashed on my couch. I feel so blessed to have a couch to crash on. Especially one that's super comfy with big green and teal pillows. Oh yeah, I talked about how much I love couches in my last entry. Sorry. :)
So after all that drivin' around, I decided to lay low today. Very excited for tomorrow though; I get to go shopping for a new dress for an neat little thing in the evening... the Melrose Place Premiere Party!!! Very excited, should be super cool. It's going to be at the Pacific Design Center on Melrose, and I can't wait! Hope there's a red carpet. :)
Ok, peace, chickens.
Kirsten
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Books, Tea, and other Adventures...
First of all... TICKETS ARE NOW AVAILABLE for "A Celebration of Life," my 21st Birthday Fundraiser on September 16th, online at www.kirstenhaglund.org. So excited to see you there! :)
I love living in California. The weather is always perfect. Seriously. Warm, and no humidity in the day time, hair stays manageable... then cool, sweater weather in the evening... no wasted, "Michigan-only" clothes in my closet! I am so responsive and sensitive to climate... so waking up everyday to such naturally perfect weather feels like such a blessing. I just find myself saying, "Thank you, Jesus for the sun in the sky!" After 20 years of snow, ice, and shoveling the remnants of an April blizzard off of your car... there is much to be thankful for, living in the California Republic.
I was so thrilled yesterday to open up my mailbox to find an autographed copy of Jenni Schaefer's new book, Goodbye Ed, Hello Me! Jenni is the wonderful author of the book Life Without Ed, a humorous, insightful, and down-to-earth personal story of one woman's 'break-up' and recovery from Ed: her eating disorder. Her lastest work, which I received in the mail is its companion. I read Life Without Ed during my recovery, and have since recommended it out as a helpful tool to many young men and women as I travel and speak. I was lucky enough to read Goodbye Ed, Hello Me pre-publication and offer a quote for the first page. I HIGHLY recommend both of these books for both individuals and families going through this battle. Jenni's writing is insightful and real; no lofty language, no 'doctor' talk, just raw human emotions, and humor as well. Everyone can relate to Jenni's story, and she is so honest! It's refreshing. Both books can be ordered from Gurze Books, or Amazon.com. Check it out!
I was thrilled to finally be able to meet Jenni at the NEDA (National Eating Disorders Association) conference last year during my reign as Miss America! She has been and inspiration and a light to so many seeking recovery. I then got to know Jenni through emails, letters, and shared appearances around the eating disorders community, and we have become good friends. I can tell you though, I never would have DREAMED when I was reading her book at a very low point in my eating disorder recovery, that one day I would be happy, healthy, and friends with its author. Life can be STRANGE... but good! All good things here. I just wanted to share/introduce you to her and her work. Both Life Without Ed and Goodbye Ed, Hello Me are excellent reads for anyone traveling the road to recovery. So go forth, and buy! (A good commercial, eh?)
You know how tea just makes you happy? I made a wonderful discovery recently... I have a Teavana (an AMAZING tea store in the mall) within walking distance of my apartment here in LA! I spent probably a half an hour with a friend trying all kinds of teas and just getting weak at the knees because of their goodness! I ended up leaving, my hands wrapped tightly around a warm cup of a piping hot combination... Strawberry Kiwi and Peach Ginger Tea. Absolutely amazing! It tasted like velvet. I'm trying really hard to replace all the coffee in my diet with tea; more antioxidants, and less caffeine, which leaches calcium from your bones. So far, so good!
As for real life...last evening I had the pleasure of auditing an Auditioning technique class I will be taking next month, taught by G Charles Wright, casting director for That 70's Show, and now Patricia Heaton's sitcom, The Middle. The best part about the class? If you do well, after your performance you get a cookie! :) Nice! Last night's were homemade, oatmeal, chocolate cherry chunk, with pecans. Delicious. Everyone in the class, including G, is extremely nice and talented, so I can't wait to learn a lot! After class ended, I finally watched Walk the Line (I had been meaning to see this movie for forever!) with some friends on a really comfy big white couch. I love couches. Especially the ones you just sink right into and the cushions come up all around you. I loved the couch so much it put me to sleep! I missed the last 25 minutes of Johnny and June Carter Cash's overly dramatic life story. I'm really an old lady at heart, I think that's why I always fall asleep so early! Luckily, my friends don't judge me for my heavy lids, and they let me borrow the film to finish it later. Hopefully I'll get to it today... if the myriad of other tasks don't take over what seems to be WAY too few hours in the day.
Off to work! Hope you have a blessed day, and check out Jenni Schaefer's new book! I know you will be delighted.
Love,
Kirsten
"If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans."
Monday, August 17, 2009
Ooops, forgot to mention...
Beginnings...
Hello Everyone!
I hope anyone and everyone who is reading this is having a blessed day. I'm beginning this blog in an effort to try to keep as many people as possible updated and informed on what the Kirsten Haglund Foundation is doing, what is happening in the eating disorders community, news on upcoming events, and probably a whole lot of personal silliness that will give you a little bit of insight into who I am, and what's important to me. Enjoy! Thank you so much for taking the time to visit, and it is my hope that you'll be able to follow this blog, learn a lot, and be inspired.
Just a little update... the board and myself are currently busy busy busy getting everything prepared for our first big event! The KHF is putting on its first fundraiser, only about 6 months after our 'birth'... a big undertaking, but we've got big dreams! :) The event is a wine-tasting, silent auction, and evening of food and entertainment at Andiamo in Novi, Michigan. We're calling the night, "Alive to Celebrate" Kirsten Haglund, Miss America 2008's 21st Birthday Extravaganza! I feel lucky enough to have it be my big 21st Birthday Bash! What? I'll actually get to taste the wine at my Foundation's wine-tasting? Now... yes I will! But kidding aside, we're in the process of making up programs, finalizing the invite, and all of the other little details that go into making the event a success. Tickets will be $80.00, which is a tax deductible donation, and you can email misskhaglund@gmail.com to purchase, or for more information. You can also "friend" me or the Foundation on Facebook, where we will be posting more detailed info as it comes out. Wish us luck! Got lots of planning left to do... I'm really excited though. A preview of our auction items... we have one of our board members who is an exceptional artist, Kathleen MacDonald, creating some original pieces for the event, as well as some tickets to Detroit Sports events, some Miss America signed memorabilia, and a whole bunch of other goodies. Can't wait to see you there! Seriously.
Coming up after my birthday party (I love that!), I am doing an event in Los Angeles September 25th, in conjunction with the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals, LA Chapter (IAEDP-LA)... In Venice, California, myself and acclaimed fashion/celebrity photographer Jeff Vespa, are presenting for a program entitled "Real Beauty, Real Body- Body Image and the Media." If you're in LA, you should come check it out! Email me for more info.
Also in the works is a luncheon fundraiser for the Foundation out here closer to my home... in Calabasas, California, just north of Los Angeles. The eating disorders treatment facility La Ventana has been gracious enough to help in our effort to raise money for treatment scholarships... they are hosting a community forum/luncheon, Friday October 2nd. I will be speaking, and we will also have silent auctions items, and KHF merchandise on sale. Jeff and Steve, my good friends at La Ventana have been absolutely amazing and so generous with their time and talents in helping us out. The eating disorders community is filled with the most gracious, kind-hearted, genuine individuals. An example...
I met the coolest guy, his name is Jeff Dooley, who works at an eating disorders clinic out here in Beverly Hills, at the Ben Franklin Institute's Summit Conference for Eating Disorders in Las Vegas earlier in June. We had a great chance to talk there, and both living and working in the Los Angeles area, have kept in touch. While discussing further how we can combine our efforts to fundraise/create awareness in Southern California, I learn that he also is a very talented writer! Wonderful person that he is, he knows I am getting my acting career off the ground, and he invited me to be the supporting lead in the short film that he was getting ready to produce; a work that had been two years in the making. Entitled Caroline and Randy, a quirky relationship dramedy with psychoanalytic perspective, we wrapped filming last Wednesday, and I had an incredible experience working on set, with Jeff and the other actors, and wonderful director Patrick J DonVito. Now, not only are we friends as advocates, but friends as artists. Like I said... individuals in the eating disorders community are some of the most giving people I've ever had the privilege to work with.
So that's a little bit about what's going on in my world... Its a little cloudy here in So-Cal this morning... but it feels kind of refreshing to me. About to go to Cardio Barre; my favorite workout! It's a class that is only offered out here in LA, a mixture of aerobics/free-weights and ballet, but without the soul-crushing combination of a leotard and pink tights. :) I'll be back to update soon, in the meantime, check this out...
Experts: Obsession With Healthy Eating Strains Relationships
FoxNews.com Article
Truth, huh?
Blessings,
Kirsten
Friday, July 31, 2009
The Renfrew Center | Miss America Breakfast
NBC 10 Philadelphia ran a segment during their newscasts about an empowering breakfast event, hosted by The Renfrew Center Foundation in Philadelphia. It brought together Renfrew's experts, Miss America 2008 Kirsten Haglund, and cheerleaders and dancers for Philadelphia's leading professional and college sports teams to discuss body image-related issues.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Welcome!
Welcome to my new blog! This blog will serve as an extension of my website www.kirstenhaglund.org for The Kirsten Haglund Foundation. Stay updated with events & appearances, photos and new resources & links . Enjoy!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
