Clooney Sightings and Midwest Movies

At last, there's something hot going on in the Midwest. The weather is creeping above freezing and we're seeing stars. 


Just the other day my mom called and told me there was a George Clooney sighting near Race St. in Cincy. And now, I'm reading that he is shooting scenes at Xavier with Ryan Gosling and scouting locations at the University of Michigan. 


Wow! If I weren't so close to labor, I'd be heading out to watch or sign up as an extra. Hey, maybe I'll check it out anyway. 


If you're interested, more details can be found online


http://www.wlwt.com/r/26876145/detail.html
http://michiganacting.com/acting/auditions-casting-calls/ides-of-march-extras-casting-detroit

Where is the Love?

Is anyone else tired of all Valentine’s Day bashing? After watching a recent Glee episode, it occurred to me that more people should speak up in favor of Valentine's Day.

If you’re one of the people who just don’t get it. Listen up.

Many of us understand what it’s like to be single, lonely or dumped. Some of us even know what it’s like to have these things happen on Valentine’s Day. Others may be cynical. But, is it really necessary to trash a holiday that’s fun for kids while you’re stocking up on candy kisses and conversation hearts? If I’m in the holiday aisle with my kid and you see me, feel free to continue berating said holiday to your cell-buddy a few aisles over so my child doesn’t have to hear it!

Come on, is it really so awful to have a day dedicated to love and the many ways people can express it?

Most of us pro-Valentine folks just want to have a little fun. It shouldn’t bother you that we enjoy exchanging valentines amongst ourselves. Maybe our kids give us a reason to plaster doilies and sparkles all over a billion pieces of paper or we just enjoy the mid-winter candy fix. But, if it’s so bad, don’t buy the cards or candy, don’t bother with it at all. Leave the fun stuff to the kids, lovers and romantics.

Sure, you're entitled to your opinion that Valentine’s Day was made up by greeting card or candy companies. My opinion is different. It’s wonderful that my daughter beams while making cookies shaped like smoochie lip kisses and sending valentines; can we just have our day?

Sometimes it can suck to be stuck without something to do when you feel pressured. Let me help take the pressure off – treat it like any other day! Do what you like, stay in, stay crabby, or do nothing. It’s not like it’s a national holiday or anyone is required to celebrate. If you don’t like it, don’t bother celebrating.

It is like most of life, it is what you make of it. This year, it would be nice to hear a little more love. I mean, don’t we have enough hate going around these days? You don’t have to embrace it; just let those of us who look forward to it enjoy it. I’ll cuddle my family and share all the frilly cards and candies I can, while I can. You can have your V-Day slam fest, just don’t do it in front of the kids, please.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

18 Heart-shaped Foods for Valentine's Day (Babble) - So Cute!

I had to link you up with Babble on these adorable and delicious looking foods. So, if you're trying to come up with some fun or creative V-day treats, check these out. Enjoy!

NYT: Competition for Preschool

The NYT post on Preschool Competition sheds some interesting light on tot and parent preschool preparations. I have heard about this for years being a problem in highly populated metro areas, but it sounds like you can get involved with this sort of competitive schooling (and so early) just about anywhere. 


What's your take on this? Share your opinions and maybe we can help a few parents and kids. 

Granting Exclusivity - Thoughts from Ask Allison

Here is a Q&A about granting exclusive rights. Writers be aware of the ups and downs of an agent's interest in your manuscript. Read more here...