Anyone Want to Use Talent?

I am afraid I am about to sound a bit bi-polar in this entry compared to the last one with more excitement, but I think you are all used to that by now.

I guess I have hit another funk today, and it seems to be affecting my mood. I think it has a large part to do with my broken back this week (I have a slipped disk and it's really killing me at this very moment.). Even with a broken back, I seem to feel lost for a direction again.

I really feel I have slowed down the pace of my life since Ihave returned from NJ a great deal. It is nice to just take life one day at a time. However, I am now borderlining boredom! I hate, hate, hate boredom. There are so many other things I want to do with my life, and being bored just unnerves me.

Work has been super, super slow, which is unusual for a production office, and when I do work it is all the straight forward filing, copy, scan. It is all intern work except for the $$$. I am fine with it, but I am feeling stifled. I am feeling underused and not reaching my full potential.

I WANT A JOB THAT USES MY TALENTS!! I want to be a leader, I want to be used for my strengths. I am a STRONG organizer, strong multi-tasker who is very meticulous to every details. I love being in charge of the puzzle and making all the pieces fit. I am creative and I need a fast apced-creative work enviornment.

I want to be important and have lots of responsibilities. I am not searching for fame, that is dumb, but I am looking to be important to others for what I do at work. This is the "super career" I have previsouly mentioned. I want to move up the ranks, USE MY BRAIN to solve issues. I want to be challenged in a creative way. I am always proud of my work, so I want to be important and the best at what I do, darn it!! Why is this so hard to find a job?!

I know I need to start from the ground up, and I am. But i feel I am not getting anywhere once again. I am not producing, I am not getting the basic ground work done that I need. I just applied for a job that would allow me to start the ground work for Good Morning America, and I was just told they closed the position.

Temping is great, but I feel like I am putting all of my eggs into one basket. I am not being challenged intellectually; it is all straight forward. I am tired of asking the smallest question which seems to undermine my true intelligence. They are not going to just hand me a job. I need to start pushing and meeting again, so within the last few hours, I have reached out to about 5 new execs with no responses as of yet.

I feel like my brain is rotting. I am a girl who's identity was through excelling in academics as a kid and in college. I want to be known for being smart, and have people want to use me for those issues.

Due to my stifled conditions, I have had the notion I cannot trust the world to do anything for me no matter how hard I try. I need to take actions into my own hands. I have had the idea of starting an organizing service as a way to make money for clients who need that. I have thought of starting my own production company, but I have no collateral for that. I have had the ideas of children's story books for me to write which have popped into my head. I was even thinking of hair modeling since this is the talent capital of the world.

I feel lost for a direction in my career, and really bummed in the fact that I am no where near landing a job again. Why can I not find a job? I am just soooo frustrated because I feel like I am missing my chance to get the foundation set for a great career. Am I not going to get there? How can I be successful when this much time has elapsed and I don't have much to show for it?

Maybe I was not meant for a career and the idea of being a stong leader/businesswoman is just silly. I don't mean to be a Debbie Downer for anyone, but I am really low in spirit this week, which is not like me. It sucks being in a funk.

I have to trust God that it will all work out, but I am in real need of company. I am in need of a friend and a hug today. I feel so far away from everything that I want, love and need. Please tell me it will all work out. I feel so lost again, and I want to just get to where I was meant to be. What is my calling?!!? Why can I not find it yet after all this year has put me through?!

Okay, I am going to go cool off. Sorry for this really morbid note. I just want to use my talents and not feel so bored. Does anyone have an opening for talent? I am available.

A Change in Atmosphere

There is paint on the walls! There is paint on the walls!! Never in my life have I been so happy to have paint on the walls.

I believe I have written about the decor of the Production floor compared to the wonderful vitality of the animation world, right? I hope so. If I have not, all you need to know is the floor that is the magic of "Production" is all but a labyrinth of white walls and grey-walled cubicles. For a floor that is not very creative in nature to begin with, being all logistics, finance and numbers, the walls definitely reciprocated that spirit, or lack there of.

So, I have returned from a week away at work, and I am happy to see PAINT ON ALL THE WALLS!! A major improvement! The walls are now various colors of a pumpkin/burnt orange and a warm red. The outside walls are also painted a slight grey, but no one would notice a difference until you look in the corners where the old white meets the grey.

With these new colors, come new matching couches that are a pale green color. I think we wanted to remake the fall colors of the Northeast that maybe LA never gets? Maybe? For whatever reason, it seems fall has made its way to the decor. So now it is my job to do research for the new accent pillows to tie in the wall colors and the couches. According to my boss, the couches look like the "lobby of an automotive car dealership!" HA!

I think the best new physical attribute to the floor is the new hallway sign added to the wall of the floor. There, is the new proud display of Mickey holding the slate with the letters "Walt Disney Studios" Production. Well, that's what was outlined on the wall as I watched the man prepare to hang the letters. I will take a picture of it tomorrow and definitely confirm its saying.

However, despite all of the new physical changes, I had a conversation with a fellow co-worker that was the best change of all. As you can tell, I have been kind of low in spirit before I left for home with the dramatic change in company culture, well according to my co-worker, that is now changing for the better. He told me in our 15 minute, detailed conversation how myself, another fellow perm temp from NJ, a new girl as a production coordinator, and the girl I'm replacing now working down the hall, are all contributing to a change in atmosphere.

Apparently, in his words, for years the floor has been a portable floor, meaning various production teams on different films are always cycling in and out. This constant change makes it hard for those execs in Disney to really connect with co-workers, so they have developed a sense of stiffness and distance. This is why the floor has become so...boring (?) in personality.

Now with the four of us girls, all young, and really new to the production world, we are brining on a new attitude. Because we are new, none of us are jaded yet, and we have a desire to want to be around it all. This, according to him, is very refreshing, and he can feel a change in the atmosphere of the office. I, on the other hand, have had the opposite reaction, but at least I know my presence is not going unnoticed.

He even said to me that is seems everyone knows me. Yes, I am always talking to others, but he admitted he had no idea I was a temp until we met. He thought I had been working here for over a year. He continued to say that he feels with me and the other girls around the office, the executives are becoming less tense and feel a more "youthful spirit" happening again; things are more lose and less tensive.

I really hope this is true and it is not just him. I would love to think that we have had this impact on the floor. It means that we are noticed, important for everyone to want us here, and maybe it could lead to a possible job. I have noticed though within my three weeks here, even the "toughest" reputable people are starting to say hi to me or have calmed a bit. I say this is due to the fact productions are slowing down since the "New Regime" has not greenlit anything yet, but who knows.

I think another proof that this is change of atmosphere is changing was through the party I tried to plan for while I was away. Apparently every one of the 100+ people we invited came. According to the execs, no one has ever really showed before. I guess people are really looking for a way to enjoy what they do if others give a reason to celebrate. I wish I was part of the party, but my boss told me we should plan one for every quarter of the year! Fine by me, I must have done something right!

Anyway, this conversation has made my week. Sorry this was a longer entry tonight. It does not seem like much, but when you don't have much of a voice or much to lean on, even the smallest detail or comment tends to mean the world at times. This was one of those times.

I am happy to see a change in atmosphere happening on the floor. I can only see it improving from here; I just hope the weather does the same. Down with June Gloom!!

A Week Home: Perspective

(for today!!)

I cannot believe how quickly a week has gone by! I feel like I just got home, and now it feels like a dream. I am flying back to LA as I write this, and it is weird knowing I have a life to return too.

This week was full of many great family times, especially yesterday, as we had our traditional family BBQ. It was more of my sister’s going away party, but we celebrated it with our grandmother, her extended family, and our cousins who live behind us. I realize just how truly blessed I am to have the family I have. It makes returning back to a life that is pretty unstable, and unpredictable harder to do. Do I really want to be in LA that much to give up on such a wonderful place to call home?

Maybe it is the wonderful season where June Gloom does not exist, maybe it is the family spirit of celebrating big life events, I am not sure, but I can say leaving home this time was a little harder than I expected.

I am not sure what I am returning too, but I guess it is the start of my career. I got some good perspective while I was away about where I am, and how to clear my head. I have realized I need to slow down. I cannot rush any of this. It will all happen on God’s time, and I am jut going along for the ride. For the first time in my life, I am not rushing to beat out the competition because I am in, maybe not permanently, but I am in! I am so used to competing with others in sports, academics, college stats, finishing a job, etc. My whole life has been a competition with friends, enemies, siblings, myself. I have realized that I can now relax for a bit, and that is a huge deal for me.

I feel like I can head back to LA understanding that what will happen will happen. I am not there forever, but I am there to figure out a new direction. That leads me to another point. I have decided that if I am not hired in 6 months, then I will return home or to Orlando to work. There are more chances in Orlando for work. It may not be the “Super Career” I have always envisioned for myself, but I am starting to think I would be okay with that. I am also going to let up on pushing for a social life. I will kepe it going, but I shouldn’t try to force it to happen. I do not need to be as antsy and rushed. I will learn to slow my pace down.

In addition, I am surprised on myself just how much I realized I want to have a family someday, and how I would do anything to have it be as successful as the one I currently have. Maybe having a “super career” as I thought is not what I may want in the future. Maybe I do not have to beat out the competition to become the next Jerry Bruckheimer. I am not giving up on my career, no way, I am just seeing it in a different light. I want something steady that I enjoy while having a family. Maybe Orlando is where that will happen. Only God knows.

I also realized I want to push this TV realm. I have some contacts with shows and programs in NYC now. Maybe it is time I really reach out to them and push for something. If the Studios aren’t meant for me, well at least I can say I accomplished my goal of working for them.

I think I will head back with my head held high, but just a bit homesick. Homesick for something stable, homesick for my family, and homesick for my future.

I look forward to where I go, and I do not need to be in LA forever to do it. Let’s see where the next 6 months takes me. Each week has been different from the last thus far, so who knows what will happen. I look forward to enjoying the ride.

It’s a Shore Thing!

(written 6/24)

If you ever visit NJ, and you never go to the Shore, then you have never experienced NJ. Growing up, I would visit the shore every summer with my friends for a few days each year. I have never been a big beach person, as you can tell about my fair skin, but I am slowly starting to love it.

Today, instead of going into NYC as I usually do, I decided to take my brother and sister to the shore of Point Pleasant Beach. This was our first trip to the beach together in a few years, but it was the first one without the parentals. I get stressed out when I drive on the NJ highways, because NJians (yes, I just made that up!) are such a tough breed of drivers, but this drive was quite pleasant.

I guess I am getting used to Santa Monica now, because I forgot just how rocky and hard on your feet the sand is at the Jersey Shore. It is full of broken shells from such rough waters. The water was really cold, but we adjusted once we were in. You could tell that we were not beach people because al 3 of us looked like we were reflecting the sunlight. However, we still had great fun. We haven’t laughed so hard together like that in a while.

I had us park by the boardwalk, because that is one thing NorthEast beaches do well. Classic wooden boardwalks. We need more of them in the world. Maybe not the crappy games, but I enjoy the walk along the beach and night life it offers. It made me think of my favorite place in WDW, The Boardwalk. I could stay there for hours, and just for the reasons I have mentioned above.

Do I like the Shore? Sure! I may not ever live or own a beach house, but it is a “shore” thing I enjoy my time in the sun. Today was a good day for the beach since it reached a whopping 99 degrees today. I forgot what the humidity feels like, so there was no better day for this trip.

Sister's Graduation

(written 6/22)

Congratulations, Casey! You are now a high school graduate. Not that I think you would not make it, but because this day has been a long time coming.

Today I returned to my old high school grounds to see my sister graduate from high school. I have always enjoyed returning to places from my past. It has been something we have done since childhood as we have visited past homes we used to live and schools we used to attend. It is not unusual for my family to appreciate reconnecting with the past. However, that really unnerves some. I am always to odd one because I get excited when I see people from my past and want to talk to them, apparently this is not the “in” thing to do.

I saw some former classmates that were unavoidable with this gradation. I saw about 7 former classmates of mine, and I wanted to say hi to all, but apparently, only 2 actually talked. So, why is it once we leave a place do we really disconnect with our past? Is it a personal issue with me? I’d like to think not. Perhaps we are reminded of uncomfortable times we happened to share with others, like middle school or high school, and we want to move on? Or could it be the fact we are not comfortable with talking in person with technology like Facebook to do the reuniting for us? Not sure. I think this is an interesting question to ask of our generation. Maybe a future post.

Anyway, the graduation ceremony started off really nice. The weather was perfect all day long, up until the clouds rolled in 30 minutes before names were called. As my sister walked up on the field, and seeing former classmates of mine around the area along with past teachers, I couldn’t help but think about my graduation.

It was 5 years ago to the day. 5 years have gone by, and wow, a lot has changed. I sometimes look back at my life and cannot believe half the things that have happened to me, and other times I feel like I am right back to where I started. Part of me cannot believe 5 years has passed, while the other part feels like more time has eclipsed. What really made me think I was back in high school was when we were forced inside (explanation to follow), we walked the halls of the locker coated walls and classrooms, and funny enough, one of the smartest kids in my class walked passed my and said, “Hi, Ashley.” It was if I was just thrown back in time even if for a moment., and I remembered how it felt to be there. Now here I am watching my sister do the same thing.

I had others ask me, “Can you believe it you sister is graduating?” I say, “No, of course not,” but in reality, of course I can! It has been a long time coming. Sometimes I have a hard time believing she is 18, but leaving high school, that is not hard to believe.

I remembered my graduation was a great, warm and sunny ceremony. However, about ½ way through the names, the skies opened up and the rain came down, not just lightly; it poured with a nice round of thunder and lightening. It was not until that moment I realized just how much I miss my summer thunderstorms!

The “diploma givers” were about 2 rows of names from finishing, so we had to finish the ceremony outside, but it was ridiculous! The poor graduates were soaked with no protection and most of the parents were darting into the school gym. Quite a moment to experience, I must admit. Of course, my sister naturally liked it, but what an epic ending! The good thing was, most of the Board of Ed had to skip their speeches due to weather, so only the student Valedictorian was heard, as it rightfully should have been. I know that was a moment she will never forget!

I am so proud of you, Sis! Now it is off to college, literally. I cannot believe you leave this Sunday! We will have a good last few days home. Promise. Love you!!

P.S. Happy Birthday, Daddy!

Happy Father's Day!!

(written on 6/20)

Hey Everyone!

I am home in NJ and it has been a great start to a great week, despite it being only Sunday. 24 hours into my trip home, and I feel as if LA is from another life. Just today, I went to church, said goodbye to my pastor who is moving, saw my grandmother, celebrated Father’s Day by going to Outback Steakhouse, treated my dad to Toy Story 3 in 3D. What a first day, right?

First of all, Happy Father’s Day, Dad! I know I have told you this 100+ times, but thanks for everything. You are great, and thank you for supporting my dreams, especially when others around me do not. Your faith in me is what helps carry me miles beyond what I thought I could do. So thank you.

And to Dubbie… I know you are not here on Earth, but I know you are around. Happy Father’s day to you too. We all miss you so much, and we took pictures together in the Memorial Garden to make sure you knew you were not forgotten. We love you.

Home is great. The weather, although humid, is perfect. High around 88 degrees, I can wear my summer dresses I left behind, and I can open all the windows to enjoy the fresh breeze come through my window (plus we don’t have air conditioning, so we don’t have a choice). I love feeling comfortable in my surroundings, everything is familiar, has its place, and is beautiful. I cannot get over how green everything is! Maybe that is life in the CA desert I am now adjusting too, but the grass, plants and trees all look exceptionally luscious. June is the absolute best time of year to be home. The weather is great, may get an occasional thunderstorm, everyone is out and about, all is in bloom, and you hear the night time insects outside to their own rhythm. There is no place like home!

So Toy Story 3, what a good movie! It was a different story than I thought, but I loved the animation, the creativity, and the sense of family and adventure. It was really great to watch it with my brother, sister and Dad. Awesome first day. Could it get any better?

Until tomorrow…

Temping for a Temp

(written on 6/18)

I am going home tomorrow, which means it is the end of another week. I do not mean to have a gap between these entries, but honestly, the offices have not been that busy as I learn more about the floor each day. The production offices are in this transition of time because there are not many projects coming out and the “New Regime” has not said “yes” or greenlit anything as of yet.

However this week was a bit ridiculous for the fact that I am not going to be here at all next week. I am going home to NJ for the week to see my family for various events. This is where the lines and rules of being a temp are a bit hazy. Because I am a temp, does that mean I can take time off whenever I really need, or because I am working, I need to make sure I am there all the time and not ask for time off? It is not like I have vacation days. I am not sure, but at least I am going home! I am so excited I can barely contain it!

So this week… well, tonight was the longest night I had to work since I started. I was given the lovely task putting together a party for the floor for Monday, and it was Thursday. That was not the proper amount of time I thought I would need. Not only that, but I was given very few instructions about what was needed. I thought this would be a great opportunity since I have a passion for throwing themed parties and events.

Anyway, this afternoon, I had to pretty much put everything together. I left work to go to Target and get all of the various drinks, plates, silverware, decorations, etc. Then I ordered food from a local Mexican restaurant for Monday, and made sure I was able to get a catering service come in and give ice, serve, and rent receptacles. I have no idea what the budget was, but I tried my best to make it manageable. By the end of the day, I was sweating as I carried everything by myself and set it up as well. I just hope it comes together on time. Too bad I will not be there to celebrate it.

So aside from that mini adventure, I typed the instructions for my replacement temp, so he would know just how the office operates. It was the first time I was now the one needing replacing. It felt great! I gave him all the instructions of how the floor worked and his responsibilities. I showed myself just how much I have come within the last 2 weeks, and I am quite proud. I am adjusting fine and okay. I am proud. Of course I still have my insecurities about the future and what I want to do, but I will go home, leave LA behind and clear my head. It is amazing what a good week away will do.

I am so excited to see my family. I miss them so much. Not seeing them makes this move a lot harder, so I am thankful for the chance to go. I will let you know what happens. But for now, there is no place like home.

The Magical World of Corporate Culture Shock

Oh! So one of my bigggesssttt updates I need to address from the previous entry and forgot to do so is about the company’s corporate culture here at the Studios. I have been talking a lot lately with my roommate and several young co-workers about the environment and direction of the company, and it has always lead to some serious debate about future improvements. We talked about writing an email to the head of Walt Disney Pictures, the newly appointed Sean Bailey.

Not sure if you readers are aware, but the company is entering a new and interesting phase. I call it “The New Regime”. Back in October, the leaders and heads of the Studios stepped down after 30+ years of service, and then followed those closest to him. So for the last 8 months, Disney has been in a deep mode of transition trying to find new leadership and great projects. With a new President of the Studios, Rich Ross, President of WDPics, Sean Bailey, and President of Marketing, MT Carney, I think this company will face many new changes.

I have my own ideas as to what will happen and what could happen, but in this entry, I am writing a mockup email to Sean Bailey, President of Walt Disney Pictures. He will be the one responsible for what movies Disney creates for the next several years. From what I hear, he will do great and get this company back on track. While I have been temping, one of the biggest issues for me has been the contrast between the theme parks and corporate environment. I must say, the Studios is no where near as magical as I think it could be to work, and if I had any voice, I want him to be aware and listen to the youth of this growing company; this is what I would say…

Dear Mr. President,

I am writing you this letter today because, as you start your position as leader of the Walt Disney Studios, I want to make you aware of some areas I suggest that need improvement.

To start, “Congratulations” on your newly appointed role within the most astounding company on the planet. As the new President of the WDSMPG, I hope you will turn this company around and bring it back to the right track, which we seemed to have lost.

I have been a member of this company for almost 4 years now, and I do not dream of working anywhere else. I started working in the theme parks as a tour guide hoping it would get me into the company and I could make my way to the Studios. As of March this year, I have been doing just that. I would like to say that it is everything I have imagined, but I am saddened to say, I am going through a bit of Corporate Culture Shock.

I know I have been with the Studios a very short time, as have you, and I want to see this company reach its potential. I am not here to tell you how to do your job, but I want you to see it from the ground up. I want to represent the voice of the lower hierarchy, and I hope you listen.

First, I have started to notice that there is very little communication between the various facets of the company aside from the given Synergy department. I am talking about daily interaction and life on the lot. For example, Feature Animation does not talk too or really communicate with Live Action. We work across the street from one another, yet the work environments are two separate worlds. I am shocked to learn top execs from Live Action never heard of top execs at Animation. Isn’t this company built on the strength of synergy? How is it when a screening happens, say for Animation, the Live Action Cast Members never hear of it and vice versa? Or, how come one production department does not talk to another? We need this to change. We must communicate and be aware of each others’ presence in order to strengthen our projects, resources, knowledge and company.

Second, the physical work environment themselves are not in sync. How is it that Animation seems to uphold the tradition and passion of the heritage of this company and live action does not? For example, Animation has characters and drawings of Disney classic heritage all over the walls, celebrating where we came from. One instantly feels the connection and honor of the company just by walking into the building. However, Live Action has no sign of connection or brand loyalty. If judged from the outside, one would have no idea we worked for Disney unless he or she looked at my email signature. Where is the homage to our past, present, and future productions? We are built on a strong legacy, where is that pride?

If I have learned one thing from the theme parks, it would be to show brand loyalty and show it proud. Why do the Studios not uphold that? I want to see the characters from which this company was so strongly built. I want to see and feel a connection of happiness and pride with my fellow co-workers.

I was asked to through a party this week for work, and I was hoping to find pictures of the classic characters in a database to use as decorations and theming for the occasion. I was immensely disappointed to find this did not exist and no one wanted the characters in order to preserve its “professionalism.” Since when did the demeanor of our leaders become so unenthusiastic and indifferent? Mr. Bailey, we need more spirit; no ifs, ands or buts.

How are we to get that back? I think you know that answer; that is why you were chosen for you position. We need to go back to the basics. We don’t just need good films and projects, we need to remember where we came from and bring back the same classic stories we once made. That is where you come in. You are going to be the new voice of the company. I pray you find great content and great stories that will make our brand come alive again both on the screen and within its office walls. The Studios need to be reignited!

Lastly, I had read in the trades a few weeks back a quote between you and Rich Ross stating you want to bring new, young producers onto the lot. Well, I admire this concept, and I want you to know, some are already here, it is just they have no voice. I do not see the older generation of leaders mentoring and molding the youth of this company as much as they could. It seems the youth have no voice, which is quite the opposite from the theme parks. I would like to see the upper level executives work together more with those just starting their career. Our company has a renowned reputation on honing new leaders and pushing youth to work together as offered College Program, which I am an alumni. I think it is about time the Studios take responsibility for some of the leaders it has already branded through that program and young outside wannabes and teach as much as possible.

I know I may be a bit naïve and young, and who am I to voice such an opinion? Then I think who am I not too? I feel this company is so full of promise, and as it is taught in the theme parks, we need to respect the heritage and traditions where hence we came. Especially coming from the Studios, the Mecca of our company’s reputation, if we do not preserve the brand loyalty, communicate together on the principles of which we were founded, and maintain the childish eye of the viewer, I am afraid we may fall short of our previous accomplishments.

Please take what I have said into consideration. I want to feel pride among my fellow Cast Members in the Studios as I have at work. Our Corporate Culture can use a good improvement, and you have that power. I hope you understand where I am coming from and see some room for great changes. I am fully available and would be honored to talk about these changes with you if you are ever so willing.

I wish you the best of luck as you start your new journey, and I look forward to where we are going, just as long as we keep moving forward. Thank you for your time,

Sincerely,

Me

Culture and Improvements

(written for 6/11)

Well, my first full week as the new staff assistant in the physical production offices have ended. It actually went by quite quickly, plus the fact it was a great week. I feel as if I have been at this job now for weeks, when in fact it has been 5 days. I seem to know most of the people, and for the first time since I started temping, it seems I am actually able to joke and be funny with most of the workers and really be myself. I cannot tell you how great that feels. I am able to be loose and energetic just as long as I get my work done.

The work load has not been too much as they are easing me into this position. I have started it knowing there is no end date as of now. Until they fill this position full time, I am here. That could be either two weeks from now or it could be a year, as I have been warned. So, I know I am here for a while. I really do like the position, and I hope they consider me for it.

In short, I am the second assistant to two production executives and the kitchen manager. Have a said this already? I feel like I am repeating my words. Sorry if I am!! I just want to make sure you understand where I am these days.

Although work is good and slow, part of the reason is I am having serious computer issues. It is complicating everything with the fact I am still an active Cast Member in Florida. I need access to a computer system called SAP through our employee website, but I am technically "already registered" in the company's database, so I cannot have a CA id. However, I MUST have a CA id or else supplies cannot be ordered. So right now, they are trying to create two different HUB or Portal (company's employee website) ids for me to exist. That is complicating everything and I just hope they can solve it soon. It's not that I don't want to work, but it's that I cannot do anything until I have the proper access.

Anyway.... I guess all I have to really add about this week is that I am getting the hang of the floor. The layout of the floor is like its own maze; it is so complicated to get around and quite humorous when delivery men can never find the proper room #s and look like kids in a labyrinth trying to get out. We all get lost. But I am slowly getting it figured out. I am learning all about the travel documents for everyone in the cast from the assistant audio man to the lead actor. I am also learning about equipment rentals and budget deals among other things. Like I said, not very creative, but a necessary part of the process.

Anyway, I will give you an update next week about everything. See ya!

Creative Outlet

(written for 6/7)

Lately, I have been needing a creative outlet like crazy. I am not sure if you are aware, but I am a relatively person. Okay…very crafty. I love to scrapbook, create fun art projects and just express myself in an artsy way. By no means am I a painter, artist, etc, I just love arts an crafts. And if I do not do them after a while I get really antsy and I need an outlet.

I am getting to that point where I need the outlet. I have not done anything creative since I have been out here, and I need it! My scrapbook box is in Jersey, and I don’t have my supplies here. So last night, I reached my limit. I went to Michaels and spent 80 bucks on attempting to decorate my room in a different way.

I bought scrapbook paper of purple blocks and foam letters with various paints and cork board. I have decided to make a collage wall around my closet door. I am actually quite proud of it so far, but it has satisfied enough of an urge for the time being.

I am painting my favorite words and decorating them with ribbon and paint, so I can surround myself with positive energy to start each day. I am trying a new outlook on life just to start happy and positive and maybe something will come from it. I mean, I am doing okay now, so why not?

I have so many magazines that I have read, and I have little money, so I figure it will be the cheapest way to change the vibe of the room. I have no idea how long I will stay here in the apt, but I like where I am, and I love living with my roommate. But since I am unaware, I do not want to paint the room until I have a place of my own. I cannot wait for that day. I look most forward to buying the bed! Just saying.

Okay tangent, sorry. Yes, creative outlet… I have worked on my room wall for the last two nights in a row. I really like how it looks but it clashes with the current paint of the wall. I just hope it does not look to juvenile and not mature college grad. Oh well, it will do for now.

I don’t think I am NJ anymore…

(written for 6/5-6/6)

I had a huge volleyball weekend, and it felt great! I just love this sport.

Yesterday, Saturday, I volunteered for the AVP (Pro Volleyball League) at their tournament in Huntington Beach. I was so set and ready to see the top players play and have the best seats to do so.

Call was at 8:00am, and I was a ball shagger and scorekeeper. For those of you who do not know the term “ball shagger”, get your minds out of the gutter and understand that is the term to describe the person who retrieves the ball after each play.

I felt I was in the right place at the right time with the volleyball nets everywhere with a huge 20 foot inflatable volleyball.

I had a reality check in the morning because I could not have been anywhere else but California. I mean, next to the 50 vball courts, there was a surfing competition going on with a rock concert setting up on the pier behind me, with palm trees everywhere and girls in bikini or maxi dresses. Just when I thought it couldn’t get anymore Californian, I see a sufrer with dreads and half a surfer suit walk up to his VW green bus. I am no longer in NJ that is for sure!

For that, I felt like I bit of an outsider, especially next to the beautiful tan girls with Sunkist highlighted hair with the trophy boys where life seems so easy. I have never known that crowd, and always wanted to spend a day in that life.

Back to Volleyball. I watched about 10 volleyball games, but only worked one. It was a sudden death tournament since it was the 3 of 4 days now, but the game I scorekept for was amazing. Tall, athletic, beautiful men that I could watch for hours. Some were completely egocentric, but others were really nice and kind. The players would sign shirts for kids that came up to them after the games, and the players would hug and take pictures with the volunteers and refs. It was great sportsmanship everywhere.

One of my former floor mates freshman year at BU now works for the AVP and writes on all their matches for the website. I stayed with him most of the day and watched the top teams play. Wow they are good. The women especially are built, and have so much talent; I’m envious. I think one of the highlights for me was watching Misty May play, of the 2008 Gold Medal Olympic team. The Olympic men were there too.

I just wish the weather was better. We have reached this period of “June Gloom.” I have never heard the term, but it applies to LA most definitely. It means that the beaches, although it’s June, are pretty chilly and not nice. It was about 62 degrees and very windy. I was expecting 90, sunny, and hot. I was so cold, I had to by a 40 dollar jacket to warm up.

Even when I played today on the beach with the rec league I have joined, the weather has been unpleasant. I like the clouds so I can see the ball, but I want it to be warm! And the funny thing is, when I return to the Valley, it is hotter by a good 20 degrees with the sun shining. You would never know the beach was gloomy. Oh well.

This was a Pro-Volleyball weekend. I played a total of 3 hours, and watched a total of 10. Not bad. I love this sport, and this will remain in my life for as long as I can help it. Now, to get back in shape…that is the next goal. J

I am Pro-Volleyball. Are you?

Change of Circumstance

(written for 6/2-6/4)

Today was my the end of my three day assignment covering the desk of the assistant to the exec in charge of Special Effects. I was not sure what to expect, but it been a relatively stress-free assignment. I would have written more, but not much happened.

The exec was actually away in Hawaii for the start of Pirates 4, which starts production next week. I just had to wait for calls to come in and relay the messages via email, but I think 2 people called a day. So I basically hung out in the office, and the exec was really nice. I think I did a good job.

It seems like P4 is under way nicely, but that is just what I have heard through the grapevine. I really follow Jerry Bruckheimer on Twitter, and he posts a lot of P4 scenery, so it looks beautiful.

Anyway, I do have more news to tell you though! This is a lot more exciting. Outside of work, this week has been really an emotional rollercoaster. I am so tried as I write this because I have had very little sleep.

Okay, so I will back up a few days to last week. I don’t think I mentioned, but while covering on of the desks I met the Unit Production Manager (UPM) for one of our upcoming shows, and he asked me all sorts of questions: where I’m from, what I’m doing, how long I’ve been here, etc… I didn’t think anything of it, and I have seen him every single day since then. However, on Wednesday, he called me and asked me to meet with him. He asked if I would be interested in interviewing for an assistant postion that would start next week for the line producer of the film. Of course I said yes!!

The interview happened yesterday, Thursday, and it went really, really well. It was more of a conversation than interview. The man was so happy, bubbly, and just really interesting. He has been in this industry for more than 25 years. I felt like I had a HUGE chance.

Then I found out that the girl I temped for interviewed for the same position, and it was down to me and her. I was so nervous that I would get I would get it based on availability, but she has the experience. I would feel terrible if I took it from her, but also happy for me. It was a emotionally torn situation. We were told they would choose that night, but did not. Basically, I could not sleep at all last night because I really wanted to position. It is a great opportunity and a way to make great contacts.

I came to work today, and waited for them to tell me the results…alllllll dayyyyy looooong. Finally right before the end of the day, the UPM talked to me and told me they went with the other girl, but he wanted to tell me in person. Since then, it has all worked out. I was really bummed for myself, because it is just another rejection on top of a really hard year. But also, I was really happy for the girl because she has been waiting for two years to move on, and she has the proper experience.

I was honored just to be considered. If I had not been temping last week, this would not have happened, none of these contacts, any of it. I am just really proud of myself because I feel like I am making headway, slowly but surely…

But that is not it! Because her job starts on Monday, they need to fill her spot. So guess who takes it? Me!! That’s right, I will now be perm temping until they fill the position. I was told that can be a month or up to a year. So I have no idea when I will not be working, but I am! It is not a hire, but I am definitely here to stay for a while. Basically, I am doing the same thing I did with Marketing but for Production, in the department I want to be in. How much more can I ask? I am doing it! So, Disney, I am here, like it or not. One thing I ask, can you hire me?

Haha, seriously. I am really proud of myself. Who knew that in 2.5 months I would be in Production? I know I want to be in more of the creative end of it, but this is a great starting place. If I have this for up to a year, then I won’t need to be hired for that position, I can move up and on. So, as for now, I am the permanent Temp Staff Assistant for Walt Disney Pictures Motion Pictures Physical Production. Yea? Yea!

I look forward to what has to come, the adjustment to a whole new department, and the involvement on the upcoming films and projects as we enter a new regime of leadership within the company. Things can only move up. Plus, I don’t have to intern anymore, or at least for a while! Extra Bonus!

Plus (what more can there be right?), one of my best friends from high school has decided to visit LA for a few days. So I am going to pick her up in a few, and then drive to OC tonight. Big day tomorrow…even though it is the weekend…I don’t stop.

End of rollercoaster ride…for now. I think I am a bit dizzy.

An extension...

(written on 6/1)

So it felt like this weekend never ended. After work today, I was invited to attend a "viewing" party with one of the guys from the sports day on Sunday. He is Australian, and made his debut on WipeOut. He was having everyone from the last two days come over and watch it. I must say watching that show with 20 people is a lot more fun than by yourself; everything was a lot funnier! The group was a good group and I hope that I can continue to hang with them because they have all been really receptive of me, which I appreciate.

So about work. Today was my last day covering the girl's desk as she returns tomorrow from her birthday weekend. I have had a great time at this desk feeling pretty comfortable with the floor and meeting all the people I can. Everyone has also been receptive and open about having me there. There are no personality conflicts with the people I work with here as there may have been in other locations.

This has actually brought up a great point. One of the assistants approached me today saying he wanted to take a few days off for the rest of the week, and needed a temp to fill in...requesting me. :D:D

Of course! So I have another extension. Another 3 day stay on the production floor. Starting tomorrow, I will be working for the EVP of Special Effects, who has earned a strong reputation in the company. I hope it goes well. I am just thankful for my extended stay!

Thanks be to God!

Crazy Memorial Weekend

(written for 5/29-5/31)

This weekend was by far the most social weekend I have had since I came out here. I just had to mention a little bit.

So after work on yesterday (half day!), a fellow temp from NJ came over to my apt. She and I watched Sex and the City all day because my roommate wanted to to be up to date in time for the movie. I have never really watched the show, so this was a major task.

I am really glad to have met her because she can relate to my complete situation. Just like me, she moved out to LA from Jersey by herself to temp for Disney. She was offered a role in the production offices in the Product Placement department; I had also done a M&G with her boss a month ago too. Funny that. Anyway, she has been out here for 9 months, and is slowly adjusting to it. I have told her about my woes with LA, my insecurities and the struggles I have had on the lot since I have been here, and she completely gets it. I am glad I am not the only one. She, too, keeps a blog about her times here on the west coast, just not as detailed as mine.

Anyway, so Friday we watched SATC all day. Then Saturday was SATC the movie day with me, my roommate, and her friends. We all went out for a nice dinner, got dressed up, and then went to the Arclight Theater to enjoy this cultural event. I definitely felt like the odd man out since I have no real attachment to this show. I had no idea just how big it was for women and gay men! All the women were dressed as if to go out on a fancy date in their stylish outfits as well as the men. There were some transgenders there that were each dressed as one of the 4 women, and one man escorted "Carrie" out as Mr. Big. It was so funny! I was definitely involved in something different.

Then Sunday was another social day. I received a text from one of the girls from NJ I met at a mixer a month ago, and she invited me to her friends' sports days in the field. It turned out to be mostly guys in their mid to later 20s. It was really warm outside, and I as dressed like I was going to a picnic when I should have been wearing gym clothes. Oh well. These guys were all really nice and social. I hope we continue to be friends or at least hang out in the upcoming months. We played everything from whiffle ball, kickball, soccer, etc. it was great to be outside and active!

I had to leave the game early to get ready for a date I had planned for that night. This was my first date....in a looong time. The date went well, and I think I will see him again, but our schedules are busy, so not sure when.

So that brings me to tonight... Monday/Memorial Day. One of the guys I met at the Sports Day yesterday was throwing a pool party at his place and wanted me to come. It was really fun, perfect weather, and nice people. I had to leave early though because my roommate's friend was having a bbq as well, so we went to that.

This friend lives in the Hollywood Hills in a three story loft house..crazy cool! The party was full of a different crowd of people from hippies to artists. About an hour into the bbq, one of the neighbors pulled into their house and out stepped Olivia Newton John! She is close with the neighbors and was in town for a few days. Someone asked her to come up for a drink, but she kindly declined. Yay for random celeb sighting!

Shortly after that, we left that bbq and returned to the pool party, but it had died down a bit, so we returned back to our place. That is where I am now. What a crazy weekend right? It felt like non stop socializing... love it! Hopefully that will lead to a great week at work. :)

HAPPY MEMORIAL DAY EVERYONE. Thank you to the troops abroad. I am forever grateful for your service.

Oh, and bro, I am sorry I missed your college graduation. I was there in spirit. Congratulations on everything in life. I love you and miss you much. I hope to talk soon. Say hi to Savannah for me!

Temping in the Land of Production

(written for 5/24-5/28)

Week in Production at the Studios...CHECK!

Overall this week was pretty laid back, believe it or not.

From 5/24-5/25, I was interning. What more needs to be said about that other than I am the only girl in a 5 person office, not doing much, read a script, worked looong hours, and that's it. Done.

So from Wed-today, I was in Production! It went really well once again. This time, I was able to meet most or many people on the floor. I work next to the offices of the President of Production, who is a very serious man, but I recognize him from the research I've done the last few years.

My one boss, is actually from my neighboring home town, so go NJ! He is really neat and laid back. The other exec I cover for is a woman who is eccentric and a bit quirky, but never a dull moment in her offices.

This week, I learned the ins and outs on to how the floor works. I am seeing the execs that I met with on my Meet and Greets, and they ask me what I am doing here. Hhaha, I love to answer that question.

I am learning about the budgets for the films, some of the production deals, and various types of paper work. Not too exciting, but absolutely vital to the process. The others I work with are super nice and friendly. Not too many young faces so the culture of the company is quite different, but that is for another entry.

Luckily, I am coming into the floor at a pretty calm time period. With all of the leadership changes these last few months, there are no new projects coming through, so things are slow. I have taken advantage of this time and have started organizing everything from the kitchen to the supply closet, both are in need of some major reorganization!

I don't mind organizing actually, as it is one of my greatest strengths, and I find it quite soothing. Not only that, but organizing those main common areas leads to great networking chances and opportunities to be seen by others. I have actually met quite a few others with this tactic.

I wish I had something more exciting to say about the Production floor, but I am just getting used to it, and it has been calm on both sides. I act mainly as a support to the other assistants, who are not giving me too much work because I don't know the processes yet for them. At least I offer.

I can see myself staying staying in this position for a year or so, because it is meant for just that, an entry level position to gain a foundation of production. Well it is memorial weekend, so I will be back next week with more updates!

Back to Disneyland!

(written for 5/20-21)

So after a great day at work yesterday, today was just as good. My friend from Orlando flew into LA this week, and he and I went to Disneyland yesterday and today. We were joined by two of his other friends as well, and we had a great time. Although I am still not a fan of DLR quite yet, I can really appreciate it for its originality and history.

My friend and I spent most of the day in DLR and then went to California Adventure later in the afternoon. We rode all the classics without much of a wait. This is why I like temping, I am off during the week at times, and I can do this! Awesome!

But what set this trip apart was we stayed in a resort for the first time. We spent the night in the Paradise Pier, which was quite nice. I would not say that it was as pretty as WDW, but the service was awesome! We were the Magical Moment group for the day, so with that came free rice krispies treats in the shape of a Mickey, Disney classic character chocolates, and a view of the entire CA park. I were told that the World of Color would be practicing its test shows last night, but that was not true; it was Grad night for local students instead.

I cannot wait to see the WOC!! I am happy to be here to see it. It looks great from their setup. We watched them play with the platforms and some of the colors throughout the day. It will be epic!

I had to leave DLR early today, because I had to escape to the Sonny with a Chance taping back in Hollywood. The taping was great, and I really enjoyed the actors that were in the show. I actually sat next to the guest star's wife and we talked the whole time. She invited me to their church for the next upcoming weeks, so I will definitely meet them again. Who knows, it may just lead to a contact on the show with the crew. You never know. :)

After the taping, which was 3 hours long, I went straight to the 1940s party, which was great. i really loved seeing everyone dressed as if they were from another time, and everyone looked amazing. I think I could relate to how my grandparents were raised for the first time being that we were playing old Hollywood movies, with pin up posters on the walls, RatPack like men, and a country at war. Yea? Well it worked for the time. I met a few guys there too, and all were really nice.

Now I am tired. I am going back to OC tomorrow for my cousin's senior dance recital, so I will see what that is like. I look forward to it. Talk to you sometime soon. Night!

Needed: Emergency Temp!

(written on 5/19/10)

Wow, you would not believe what has happened today, and it feels so good! I still cannot believe it! After being down on my luck yesterday after that hard realization, I think God reached out to me and changed my luck. I was called in this morning to an emergency temp coverage for a girl I met over a month ago.

Let me back up. I got in contact with this girl from a former M&G contact in the talent department who forwarded me her information. We met for lunch one afternoon, and we realized just how similar we are. Both tall, blonde haired girl with blue eyes, a passion for Disney, and who were both Tourguides for the Theme Parks (I was WDW as she was DLR). We have the same story with the same ambitions, just that she is graduated in 2008 and has had her position for almost 2 years.

She is the Staff Assistant to the Physical Production offices for Walt Disney Pictures. :) In short, she carries the hats of multiple roles for the department. First, she serves as the 2nd assistant to two different executives: the EVP and SVP of Physical Production. Second, she is also the floor "kitchen keeper" and assistant to the productions on the floor.

I am not sure if I told you, but most of my Meet & Greets over the last two months have been on the same floor of one of the lot buildings. This floor carries the execs for Physical Production, meaning the logistical side of production like budgets, travel, schedules, post production, etc (the "non-creative" side). But not just those execs are there, but the production offices for the new films starting or currently in production. Usually, there are about 3-4 films located on this floor at all times. So to me, this floor is exactly where I need to be!

Therefore, when I received the call to come in for the girl for just the day, of course I said, "yes!".

It turns out that the executives I was working for, were some I had made plans in the upcoming weeks to meet with, so this was perfect! I was able to talk to them while temp and get paid! The day went pretty well, I did not need to cover much but answer phones, send some emails, and make paper deliveries around the floor. I could not believe at all that I was here. I just wanted it to last.

Although this floor is very corporate, meaning white walls, cubicles everywhere, and silent hallways, I felt like I could see myself here for a while. The people were nice for the most part, but all are so busy I could not really sit and chat with many. The funny thing was I am constantly being called by the girl's name because people think we look identical. Ironically enough, that is also my sister's name.

The day came and went, and by the end of it, I had a nice surprise. The girl will be going out of town for three days before Memorial Weekend next weekend, and they want to request me to cover. YES! OF COURSE! So starting next Wednesday, I will be back! I am on cloud nine. Then on top of that, I am invited to her themed 1940s party on Friday! Awesome!

So to treat myself and get ready for the party, I went to H&M, and had my first ever shopping spree! If you know me, you know I am not one to shop, but I do enjoy my summer dresses. H&M was perfect for this 1940s party, I bought about 10 pieces of clothing for it, knowing that i could wear all of it currently. I spent more than I wanted too, but for the first time, instead of freaking out about it, I could actually afford it! Is this what making money feels like? If so, I love this feeling.

Part of me misses those WDW minimum wage, penny-pinching days, but I will enjoy making and saving what I can, because this economy has taught me that it all can change in a second.

To that... I had a great day today! One of the best. I look forward to next week for work, and tomorrow for DLR because my friend from FL is in town! Until then...goodnight!

Stop the Drought!

Hello Fellow Readers!

It has been a looong time coming since I last blogged. A lot has happened within the last month that I cannot wait to share with you. I hope I did not lose you as readers, but do know that I will be updating you very shortly. In fact, right after I post this, I will be writing your updates. Thanks for sticking with me, and I did not mean to ignore the blogging, but you will see why. I am here to say, I am officially ending the drought! A rush of information is coming your way.

Hope you are doing well! Have a magical day!

Ashley