Coffee and OJ in Hollywood

Letting go of old energy

2011-12-02T20:55:00.001-08:00

Wow, moving is SO difficult. I just moved into my new place. I love it- it has so much potential and I cannot wait to make it my own. Two balconies, lots of light, gray hardwood floors...eek! I love it. :) I realized while watching the men I hired to carry my shit up to my apt that I have too much stuff! It made me think about all of the things I hold onto because it has some sort of significance for me...you know, I wore it to dance practice years ago, I used that glass as a kid, etc... Stepping back and thinking about how these items are no longer serving me at this point in my life journey allowed for me to respectfully let go of a lot of things. Now I have three boxes full of clothes, knick knacks, shoes, bags, and kitchenware that is going to Goodwill! It feels SO great to cleanse myself of the old energy. In with the new!

Put the texting away and make a phone call!

2011-12-02T20:50:00.000-08:00

Texting is great- I LOVE to text....but, it can ruin relationships. If someone is important enough to you and you are having a 'difficult' time with them- give them a call. It could save your relationship.

http://www.cherokeebillie.com/How_to_Ruin_a_Love_Relationship_with_Modern_Technology.html

http://www.topix.com/forum/city/kenton-oh/T6EJFSTB1SFM7CK8C

http://www.29secrets.com/sections/relationships/how-texting-can-ruin-your-relationship

2011-11-28T14:01:00.000-08:00

Visiting Animal Acres!

2011-11-06T08:20:00.000-08:00

The Love 24/7 members have decided on our next video! We are visiting Animal Acres, a beautiful animal sanctuary outside of LA. "Animal Acres is a Los Angeles farmed animal sanctuary and compassionate learning center dedicated to rescuing and protecting farmed animals through rescue, education, and advocacy efforts."
I'm so excited to film this video and show you all the beautiful lives that have been saved from slaughter through this organization. Let's all support Animal Acres.

www.animalacres.org

Project Love 24/7

2011-11-05T11:33:00.000-07:00

Filming this week for my new project, LOVE 24/7. I'll be shooting videos of random acts of love to warm your heart and put a smile to your face. I'm very excited about this project, as it's my baby. :) If you have any ideas for Project Love 24/7 or would like to be featured in a video message me! By random acts of love, I mean, surprising someone you love....visiting a hospital...giving out random flowers to strangers.....handing out compliments...visiting an animal sanctuary. The idea is to see the reaction and emotion in the person receiving the love as well as the person giving it. We are love. Let's live love! I've got a website that's been up for a few months, but I'm not ready to give the link out just yet. I want to make sure I have my videos to share first. Love you all my fellow earth inhabitants!

What a great way to live life

2011-11-04T10:01:00.000-07:00

I absolutely adore Jonathan Safran Foer. I read his book, Eating Animals, years ago and admire his passion and empathetic nature.

I'll miss my Papa forever. Til we meet again!

2011-11-03T15:31:00.000-07:00

My grandfather passed away last week on October 25th in his home. He got up in the middle of the night to get some food, warmed it up, had his teeth ready in his hand, and slipped away. They say he passed how most people hope to, peacefully in his sleep...so that is somewhat comforting. I miss him so much! He was a great man with personality, love, and talent. Luckily, he made a few tapes for me talking about his amazing life stories in the days before he died. I will treasure those tapes forever. I'm still kind of in shock, and it doesn't make sense. I am heartbroken, but I know time will heal all wounds. Losing someone I love just makes me realize how insignificant all these little things ppl worry about in life are. It has brought to light just how selfish people are, how rude we are to each other, and just how insane we all act toward each other. Let's try to inhabit this planet together in a peaceful way, because...in fact, we are all one.

Here is an article that was printed in Texas Monthly about Papa last year. I had it set up so that they would interview him about his life. He was an accomplished musician who played with the likes of Hank Williams, Chet Atkins, Patsy Cline, The Carter Sisters,and Lefty Frizzel. Willie Nelson called him a show off once, and he was a student with Les Paul; taught by Joe Woverton. Anyway, read the article. He's amazing!

http://www.texasmonthly.com/2010-04-01/webextra16.php

TRUTH

2011-10-16T10:35:00.001-07:00

The Future is Now

2011-10-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

What you put up with, you end up with. The future is now. Don't stick with people who make you uneasy or unhappy. Find the right ones for you. The right person at one point in your life could be the wrong one to hang out with or be with down the road...so pay attention. Pay attention to the red flags. Go with your gut. The Universe helps to guide you. It's when you resist that your ultimate happiness cannot be revealed. I love you all, Cathy

2011-09-21T21:14:00.001-07:00

Okay, I need to vent. There is nothing more annoying than when you ask a person who just happens to be an actor "how are you? what's going on?" ....and the only things they can talk about are the industry, what they're filming, a call back they might get, etc. It's irritating and almost always comes off as if you're not humble. C'mon, have more substance! You're giving us artists a bad name!

2011-09-21T17:04:00.001-07:00

Oh my god. I couldn't stop crying...

2011-09-19T10:37:00.001-07:00

Ahhh...breathe. Love. Tell someone you love them. Think positive thoughts. Dance in your room. Write a poem. Wear colorful clothing. Sing in the shower. Sing in the car. write a song. Rescue an animal. Care for a plant. Eat off my plate. Travel to Europe. Travel to Japan. Take a class. Crack more jokes. Write letters. Send cards. Believe in yourself. Believe in others. Help others. Give compliments. Trust. Go to therapy. Don't be afraid. drink tea. Eat your own plants. Go to the movies. Make a movie. Smile at a stranger. Pick up trash. Be light. Live with truth. Relax in a hammock. Cuddle. Drink more water. play. Exercise. Get a massage. Buy those shoes you want. Learn an instrument. Stop judging others. Laugh more. Just be.

Never a dull moment...

2011-09-16T17:14:00.001-07:00

We went out to The Edison the other night to celebrate my brother's move to NY but the place closed at midnight, so off to The Standard downtown we went. Here is what happened on the way there...

Epic roadtrip 2011

2011-09-15T21:40:00.000-07:00

Some photos from the roadtrip a few of us took to Vegas, Mammoth, Yosemite, and San Fran. Enjoy!

DEAD STOP in film festivals!

2011-09-07T15:53:00.000-07:00

A movie I filmed a few years back called Dead Stop is on a roll at film festivals!

It's at the Syracuse International Horror, Sci-Fi and Fantasy Film Festival for all of our friends on the East Coast!! Sept 9-11.

SUNDAY OCTOBER 2nd at 3:15
Big Bear Horro-Fi Film Festival
The Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center
39707 Big Bear Boulevard
Big Bear Lake, California 92315

AND

Shockerfest!

Umm... I haven't seen the movie yet, but just so you know...it's a boob double.

Painting = happy Cathy

2011-08-25T22:40:00.000-07:00

A few of my paintings :)

2011-08-25T22:39:00.001-07:00

There are many ways to raise your vibration including thinking positive and uplifting thoughts.

Everything in the universe is made of energy. What differentiates one form of energy from another is the speed at which it vibrates. For example, light vibrates at a very high frequency, and something like a rock vibrates at a lower frequency but a frequency nonetheless. Human beings also vibrate at different frequencies. Our thoughts and feelings can determine the frequency at which we vibrate, and our vibration goes out into the world and attracts to us energy moving at a similar frequency. This is one of the ways that we create our own reality, which is why we can cause a positive shift in our lives by raising our vibration.

We all know someone we think of as vibrant. Vibrant literally means “vibrating very rapidly.” The people who strike us as vibrant are vibrating at a high frequency, and they can inspire us as we work to raise our vibration. On the other hand, we all know people that are very negative or cynical. These people are vibrating at a lower frequency. They can also be an inspiration because they can show us where we don’t want to be vibrating and why. To discover where you are in terms of vibrancy, consider where you fall on a scale between the most pessimistic person you know and the most vibrant. This is not in order to pass judgment, but rather it is important to know where you are as you begin working to raise your frequency so that you can notice and appreciate your progress.

There are many ways to raise your vibration, from working with affirmations to visualizing enlightened entities during meditation. One of the most practical ways to raise your vibration is to consciously choose where you focus your attention. To understand how powerful this is, take five minutes to describe something you love unreservedly—a person, a movie, an experience. When your five minutes are up, you will noticeably feel more positive and even lighter. If you want to keep raising your vibration, you might want to commit to spending five minutes every day focusing on the good in your life. As you do this, you will train yourself to be more awake and alive. Over time, you will experience a permanent shift in your vibrancy.

Positive Thinking

2011-07-28T11:20:00.001-07:00

Our thoughts are not simply ethereal pieces of information that enter our minds and then disappear. The words and ideas that we think can shape our lives and drive us toward success and happiness or failure and distress. How you think and feel can have a profound effect on your ability to recognize opportunity, how well you perform, and the outcome of the goals that you’ve set for yourself. When you maintain an optimistic outlook and make an effort to harbor only positive thoughts, you begin to create the circumstances conducive to you achieving what you desire. You feel in control and few of life’s challenges seem truly overwhelming because it is in your nature to expect a positive conclusion. An optimistic mind is also an honest one. Staying positive does not mean that you ignore difficulties or disregard limitations. Instead, it means spending time focusing only on the thoughts that are conducive to your well-being and progress.

Positive thinking dramatically increases your chances of success in any endeavor. When you’re sure that you are worthy and that achievement is within your grasp, you start to relax and look for solutions rather than dwelling on problems. You are more likely to imagine positive situations or outcomes and disregard the thoughts related to giving up, failure, or roadblocks. What the mind expects, it finds. If you anticipate joy, good health, happiness, and accomplishment, then you will experience each one. Thinking positively may sound like a simple shift in attention – and it is – but it is a mind-set that must be developed. Whenever a negative thought enters your mind, try immediately replacing it with a constructive or optimistic one. With persistence, you can condition your mind to judge fleeting, self-defeating thoughts as inconsequential and dismiss them.

It is within your power to become as happy, content, or successful as you make up your mind to be. Staying positive may not have an immediate effect on your situation, but it will likely have a profound and instantaneous effect on your mood and the quality of your experiences. In order for positive thinking to change your life, it must become your predominant mind-set. Once you are committed to embracing positive thinking, you’ll start believing that everything that you want is within your grasp.

2011-07-27T12:42:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I know I promised a painting video and I haven't delivered yet. I'm working on it! I promise to get a video out within the month because next weekend I have two full days to paint. :) Any music suggestions? I'm thinking I'll either paint my ballerina in a previous post or go in a completely different direction - a sillhouette or something beautiful like that. I love me some ballerinas. haha Eek! I'm excited to start making more art videos for you guys! Thanks for the support and love-I'll have my art website up soon as well. xoxoxo

im a sponge- without squarepants.

2011-07-01T12:59:00.000-07:00

yeah yeah, I know I talk about love a lot, but it's something I feel a lot of. I'll always have love for you. It will drip from me like a sponge full of water. Nothing you say or do can take that away from me. You can be mean, say mean things, lie to yourself, or say goodbye, but I'll always love you. ALWAYS.

Beautiful...

2011-06-29T12:21:00.001-07:00

"Oftentimes we call Life bitter names, but only when we ourselves are bitter and dark. And we deem her empty and unprofitable, but only when the soul goes wandering in desolate places, and the heart is drunken with overmindfulness of self.

Life is deep and high and distant; and though only your vast vision can reach even her feet, yet she is near; and though only the breath of your breath reaches her heart, the shadow of your shadow crosses her face, and the echo of your faintest cry becomes a spring and an autumn in her breast.

And life is veiled and hidden, even as your greater self is hidden and veiled. Yet when Life speaks, all the winds become words; and when she speaks again, the smiles upon your lips and the tears in your eyes turn also into words. When she sings, the deaf hear and are held; and when she comes walking, the sightless behold her and are amazed and follow her in wonder and astonishment." -khalil gibran

2011-06-29T11:21:00.000-07:00

"Be fearless in expressing yourself"- without hurting others. If expressing yourself hurts other people, you're doing it wrong and it is a reflection of how you feel about yourself. Choose your words and actions wisely.

TDL wisdom

2011-06-29T11:14:00.000-07:00

People you feel drawn to reflect your inner self back at you, and you act as a mirror for them as well.

When we look at other people, we see many of their qualities in innumerable and seemingly random combinations. However, the qualities that we see in the people around us are directly related to the traits that exist in us. “Like attracts like” is one of the spiritual laws of the universe. We attract individuals into our lives that mirror who we are. Those you feel drawn to reflect your inner self back at you, and you act as a mirror for them. Simply put, when you look at others, you will likely see what exists in you. When you see beauty, divinity, sweetness, or light in the soul of another, you are seeing the goodness that resides in your soul. When you see traits in others that evoke feelings of anger, annoyance, or hatred, you may be seeing reflected back at you those parts of yourself that you have disowned or do not like.

Because we are all mirrors for each other, looking at the people in your life can tell you a lot about yourself. Who you are can be laid bare to you through what you see in others. It is easy to see the traits you do not like in others. It is much more difficult to realize that you possess those same traits. Often, the habits, attitudes, and behaviors of others are closely linked to our unconscious and unresolved issues.

When you come into contact with someone you admire, search your soul for similarly admirable traits. Likewise, when you meet someone exhibiting traits that you dislike, accept that you are looking at your reflection. Looking at yourself through your perception of others can be a humbling and eye-opening experience. You can also cultivate in you the traits and behaviors that you do like. Be loving and respectful to all people, and you will attract individuals that will love and respect you back. Nurture compassion and empathy and let the goodness you see in others be your mirror.

salsa salsa salsa!

2011-06-18T21:23:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here eating chips and salsa from Whole Foods. It's SO good. I could eat salsa just as it is...soup style but I know my tummy wouldn't be so forgiving. I haven't blogged much lately....I was discouraged after I found out someone from my past was stalking me online. I made my twitter private, made absolutely sure I knew everyone on my fb, and just felt odd about blogging for a while. I'm pretty much an open book and really enjoy my online life, so it was difficult for me to make things so private. Even if I don't have lots of readers, I still like to share :) LA life is same as it always was... I'm not much of a party girl so I don't go out much...I'd much rather curl up and read a book, paint, write, or make music. I feel that so much of life in the "Hollywood scene" is going out and making contacts....even if it is just knowing the other young Hollywoodians... I'm just not that into it. Don't get me wrong, I dig a red carpet here and there, but I don't enjoy clubbing at all. I've thought about bartending in the future, but the reality is that I don't think I'd dig the environment!
So, I have been on a creative streak for about a month- I started 7 paintings and completed 3. Whew! I would love to post them on here but am not ready just yet to show them to the internets space. mmmmmm another bite of chips and salsa.
In other news, I am going to be on a panel at Comic-Con this year along with lots of other ElfQuest gals. I'll also be introducing films at the iTV festival red carpet event coming up. Not bad gigs. :) I've never been to comic con and honestly, I'm not a big gamer/geek type of girl (although there are articles online saying I am). I've never even seen a WoW game --I've only played Grand Theft Auto and that was only to randomly shoot things, steal an ambulance, and run over pedestrians making a blood donut. haha....that was funny...
So, I'm sure I will be overwhelmed with people in costume and crazy fans of different sci-fi /gaming shows. we will see! Aight...well, time to go. xoxo

new sketches and paintings :)

2011-05-23T19:52:00.001-07:00

This is so cute! I'm going to make a painting like this:

I've been working with acrylic ink and water. I just throw the paint on the canvas and use my trusty spray bottle to let it drip. The dry time is quicker..especially with a hair dryer! hehe....I love how it moves on the canvas. In the past I would use water with acrylic paint, which works fine...but ink gives a grittier feel to it and a uniform consistency. I'm also experimenting with tracing paper to give my paintings more depth. I like to layer my paintings and by using layers of other things such as paper, I can strip it away to reveal past layers. Love it! I'll post a video/ photos with some new paintings soon!

Here is a quick sketch of the painting I plan to do next- don't laugh...I literally did it in 30 seconds!

Love is in the air!

2011-05-10T08:53:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to my beautiful friend, Liana Collie - she is newly married! Well, it's been about a week. She found her soul mate and best friend in her husband, Terry Collie. May they live a beautiful life together full of love and happiness! Check out their wedding video made by Minh Nguyen

This is how I feel today...

2011-04-24T11:40:00.000-07:00

FREE!

Oh life, you.... sneakin' up on me with drama.

2011-04-10T21:53:00.000-07:00

The last week was rather dramatic for me. I was tested in many ways. My anger, tolerance, and patience were tested for sure. When things go askew I am getting better at taking a deep breath, meditating, and moving on. We are all love. I am love. I will not allow those with mean spiritedness or deep insecurities in themselves to bring me down. I know the truth and that is all that matters. Other people's thoughts do not make a difference in the course of my life. That's all they are: thoughts...not reality. I openly and willingly let love in and I know it is all okay. I truly believe we are all special beings, and forgive anyone who has done me wrong. I forgive anyone who has an agenda devoid of love. I forgive those who direct negativity towards me. I do not accept it, but I forgive. If we are all to live in this crazy world together, we have to come from a place of love. We have to come from a place of understanding and kindness. There are always lessons to be learned and if we pay attention, we can see the beauty in these lessons. Even if an experience happens TO you - there is a lesson in it. Life is an amazing journey. It's an amazing experience that we are meant to see, touch, hear, and feel together.

Food With Love

2011-03-16T10:00:00.001-07:00

If we make food choices from a place of love and awareness we will nurture ourselves with the foods our body really needs.

Our bodies are like living temples, and deserve all the love and care we can give them. Amazingly flexible and strong, they allow us to experience the world. If we notice that we’re not feeling our best, that we’ve put on extra weight, or that our favorite clothes don’t fit, we can make the choice to be good to ourselves in a new way today.

There are times we become conscious of a deeper hunger that will not be satisfied physically. We can make a new, healthier choice for ourselves in any moment, regardless of the hour, day, week or month. And when we make the choice lovingly, we work from a creative place of improving our lives and nurturing the best within us, so there is no need to punish ourselves. From this place, we can be gently honest with ourselves about the reasons we want to eat certain foods. We can reach out to doctors to help us determine if our bodies are out of balance at a level that requires something other than basic nutrients. We can also reach out to our friends for support and to share the journey of health, which is just another part of our adventure on the physical plane.

When we treat ourselves and our bodies as we would a trusted and loyal companion, we keep our energy free from negative thoughts that would complicate our journey. Our bodies are not our enemies, and we are not fighting a battle. Instead, we are investing our love and attention into the care and support of a beautiful creation—our selves.

Life is Gooooooood

2011-03-14T19:44:00.001-07:00

I can't complain. Aside from certain things I have to deal with on a daily basis, life has been stupendous lately. I've been taking advanced jewelry making courses, toning my glutes (yes, i said toning my glutes), flying airplanes, hiking to see beautiful water falls, reading book after book, cooking new foods, and I started an acting class that I LOVE. All the while, I have a loving boyfriend and awesome friends to spend my time with. Damn I feel lucky! Okay okay I'm not writing this post just to brag. I have a point to talking about how awesome things are. It's all about your outlook. Once you realize that you have the choice to be happy or sad, working towards a goal or not, or to just spout out words or to take action....things will change for you. The realization that we control most of the aspects of our lives creates a spectacular shift in the way the world works for us. You can have what you want (within reason). I choose to be happy and to explore the world! What do you choose?

Oh no! I turned into an elf!

2011-02-24T12:34:00.001-08:00

Elf Ears make me happy. I kept mine on as long as possible after filming the trailer for Elf quest. The footage is now in post production and the final product will be out in a few weeks! Here are a couple of photos of my ears. :)

Dolphins make me happy

2011-01-31T21:12:00.001-08:00

Mark and I went to Dana Wharf with a Groupon gift from my beautiful friend, Anna Lauri. We didn't really know what to expect except that we would be on a boat looking for whales and other sea life. The last time I was in the water I went sailing and was so excited I almost peed my pants! So, we cruise out into the Pacific Ocean and all of a sudden the captain says "Well, we are in for a special treat, ladies and gentlemen...the dolphins are heading our way!" EEEKK!!! I LOVE DOLPHINS! There were hundreds and hundreds of dolphins swimming towards our tiny cruise ship, ecstatic that they were going to get to play in the wake of the boat. I had never seen anything like it. Dolphins were everywhere!

Untitled from cathy baron on Vimeo.

Needless to say, I was super excited! Not only were there hundreds of adult common dolphins, there were hundreds of babies, too! It was birthing season and tiny itty bitty cutie pie dolphin babies were playing in the water with their families. It was one of the most beautiful things I had ever seen.

After we saw the dolphins, we stopped by "Seal Rock" and got to see a few different types of sea life: sea lions, elephant seals, seals, and pelicans. They are able to get up onto the rock in the morning because of high tide, stay there all day until it rises again, and then go hunt at night. What a life! ;)

All in all, it was a beautiful day! Oh, and the Thai food after made it even better!

New items in the shop!

2011-01-21T22:15:00.000-08:00

New items in my Etsy store!

I have acquired quite a few vintage type writer keys and have been creating new pieces with them.

I'm absolutely CRAZY about them! Vintage is so lovely.

RIP Sooshi

2011-01-14T18:21:00.000-08:00

No words can describe how incredibly devastated I am right now. I just had to say goodbye to the sweetest kitty I've ever had, Sooshi. Saying I loved her is an understatement. She was my little child. She greeted me at the door, slept with me at night, and always wanted to be where I was. She was diagnosed with carcinoma in her liver and spleen and because the cancer was throughout her liver, surgery wasn't an option. Carcinoma doesn't respond to chemotherapy, either. We kept her alive and comfortable as long as we could without her quality of life being too poor. Today was the day....the incredibly SAD day. We had a mobile vet come over and sedate her and put her to sleep. Seeing my poor baby lifeless is traumatic in itself, but thinking she's around the corner or randomly wanting to say her name is worse. Sooshi was a huge part of my life. I can't stop crying- I know I will...but right now it just hurts so bad. :(

POINT and SHOOT

2011-01-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

Everyone knows I love photo shoots. There is something so uplifting about them. Becoming a character, an excuse to be sexy, being confident without judgement, getting dressed up...I don't know exactly what it is, but I like it! Luckily, my boyfriend is a very talented photographer and he loves photo shoots, too! Here are a few photos from our last shoot. The shots were meant to be for my commercial agent, but turned out to be more editorial.

I'm expanding my shop!

2011-01-11T12:30:00.001-08:00

I have started to make hair accessories to sell in my etsy store. Specifically accessories that could be worn by a bride. I have many friends getting married in the next couple of years and I have been a maid of honor three times so I have seen a bridal shop or two (or three or four,etc) in my time. ;) One thing that always bothers the heck out of me is seeing bridal jewelry that is WAY overpriced! I always think, "damn, I could make that myself." Well...I have acquired all the items and have been making my bridal accessory creations! I will be adding more every day so keep checking back in my shop. For a 15% discount enter the code 7HOLIDAY7 at checkout. :)
There will be feathers, netting, lace, pearls, and even watch pieces in some of my new wedding pieces. Happy adorning!

I have something to say...

2011-01-10T10:00:00.000-08:00

Never let anyone tell you that you cannot follow your dreams. Never let anyone tell you that you aren't good enough. Anytime someone gives you an impression otherwise that is said in a negative way...they are projecting their own view of themselves onto you. It's not reality. Don't let anyone tell you that you cannot be a leading lady because you aren't skinny enough. That is not true. It's absolutely not true. Anything is possible. Never let a bitter acting coach bring you down because he/she dumps their negativity onto your work and practice. Everyone has their own opinions about what you need to do to "make it" in this town (LA). That's all it is; their OWN opinion. Their brainthoughts that shouldn't mean anything to you if it isn't positive. There is room for us all. We can all be successful and achieve greatness with love and positivity.
When I first moved to LA I had so many opinions thrown at my face. I was even told by a manager that he had a gut feeling not to sign me because I look like too many others out here and I probably wouldn't book. Well...I AM. I'm booking because I have busted my ass and never give up. That's what you will get- opinions and rejection...but don't give up. It gets better and you learn from every encounter, mistake, and opportunity. More money will come to you and more opportunities will fall into your lap. Show up, prepare, and stay positive. Do not listen to the bitter souls that haven't learned their lessons here in LA. You are perfect as you are. There is nobody like you. Not one person on this planet is the same as you. Think about that....it's amazing! People want to see you because you are interesting and you will succeed. Hang in there. Embrace LA as if it's your child. Your baby that needs nurturing ;) Nurture this town and the people in it and you will see a different side to all of the fear and pain of pursuing your dream. You will see happiness and excitement. Good luck. Let me know how it goes...I'm rooting for you!

Best Friends are the best! ;)

2011-01-02T13:50:00.000-08:00

I have had many friends come and go throughout my life. Some I thought I'd have forever. People change. We all make stupid decisions sometimes and hurt each other...sometimes people don't have the capacity to forgive. There are other times when we just grow apart due to distance, life changes, or different lifestyles. I am lucky that I have found true friends that I trust and love with all my heart. It took a while, but it seemed that as I got older...friends just fell into my lap. I just click with people sometimes and can better recognize toxic friendships. I also used to want everyone to like me and this was the root of a lot of my sadness growing up. Some girls just didn't like me in high school. I had a few bullies- one girl, even a couple years ago, randomly saw me at a clothing store and made a point to make a snide comment. Of course, this woman has deeply rooted issues and her anger has nothing to do with me and everything to do with how she feels about herself. With all of that being said, there is one friend I want to talk about. Her name is Jenny. Jenny del Rosario is a one of a kind, genuine, human being. We met at a party at our friend, Kellan's house two Halloweens ago. I know I will be friends with Jenny forever. Not only is she super fun and outgoing, she has a huge heart. We aren't completely alike in all ways (ie-im vegan..she eats meat ;)) but, her open ears and open heart make her compassionate and understanding to anyone who is different than her. She's one of those friends that you can talk to for hours on the phone even if you're not a phone person (like me)! Jenny and I lean on each other when we are down and make an effort to see each other to have fun. Those are such an important aspects of a friendship. I believe, for it to work in any kind of relationship, two people have to be willing to meet in the middle and be willing to trust each other. Trust is something that is extremely hard for me. I have been burned by so many women over the years that I am naturally cautious. I don't feel this way about Jenny. Together with our mutual friend (jenny's bestie and roommate Victoria), we created a non profit organization called Pretty Good People. Jenny has a heaping desire to help others and actually does something about it! I admire anyone who has the drive to move forward. Jenny inspires me, makes me happy, and I would trust her with my life. I guess I just wanted to write something about Jenny because I don't think she realizes just how much she means to me. Jenny, I love you. I am always here for you when you are having a hard time or if you just feel like being silly. Cause girl, you know I loves to laugh and be an idiot! You're truly a special being and have made me a happier person just by being you. Yes, I'm sappy...but, I think it needs to be said. oh and call me....we need to play some kinect and eat some thai food.

My Vegan Dinner Party Cinnamon Rolls

2010-12-31T10:27:00.001-08:00

I had a super fun vegan dinner party at my place last night. I always overestimate the amount of food needed when I cook. I guess it's better than not having enough! The biggest hit at any dinner party I have are my homemade cinnamon rolls from scratch. I got the recipe off of veganyumyum.com and made my own modifications to make it a bit healthier. just a bit;) The rolls are made from scratch so you have to be patient and accurate with your measurements. I highly recommend making them instead of rolls with butter, eggs, and milk. You don't need to use those items to have a good cinnamon roll!

2010-12-27T20:42:00.000-08:00

I gave up coffee about 4 months ago so this blog should be called "Tea & OJ" instead- lol! BUT- since I DO drink coffee when I'm on set, I will keep the name. I had early call times before the holidays for the film, "Now", which caused me to falter and drink a few cups o' goodness.
So.... I want to talk about food. MMMMmmm...yummy yummy food. I like to talk about vegan food a lot because I'm vegan AND I want people to know that vegan food is delicious! Being vegan is definitely viewed as being eccentric by most people around the world. It's...umm... different, and because of that, it's feared even. It is always the topic of conversation when I'm out to dinner...but not because I've brought it up. People are interested, but don't always want to hear the truth behind my decision. I don't like talking about it while I'm trying to enjoy a dinner out with friends because my carnivore friends often end up feeling as if I'm judging them...and IM NOT! What I do like to talk about (and get asked about often) is what I eat. It's super easy being vegan. Let's start out with what I call my "staple items." Here are items that should be in the pantry or fridge at all times if possible.

1. black beans
2. olive oil
3. japanese soba noodles (great with stirfry and cook in only 3 minutes)
4. wheat bread
4. tortillas
5. avocadoes
6. tomatoes (or salsa)
7. onions
8. tempeh
9. quinoa
10. almond butter
11. vegan sausage
12. spinach
13. seitan
14. apples
15. bananas
16. tofu
17. jalapenos
18. red or green peppers
19. daiya cheese
20. frozen grapes

These are MY staple items, other vegans items will vary. I could make atleast 10 different meals with combinations of these food items. Except the frozen grapes; those are just for snacking on. They're like little slushies!!! Having mixed nuts in the pantry and chickpeas is a good idea, too- but I don't keep them around often.

I'm going to a vegan dinner party on Thursday night at a secret location. I'm making baja tacos, a pepperoni pizza, and cinnamon rolls- I'll be sure to post photos along with the recipes. Ciao!

Random thoughts

2010-12-27T12:05:00.001-08:00

I ran out of soap- so I borrowed my brothers Nivea for men body wash. OMG- let me just say that this stuff is the BEST smelling soap EVER. all men should be using it...and some women, too ;) I don't even care if I smell like men's cologne...it's amazing.

On another note....
I love to cook things from scratch. Cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, biscuits, breads, gravies, icing, etc... it's fun. ;) I am sick of hearing people say that they "love food too much" to be vegan. WHAT?! Vegan food is delicious and often more fresh and flavorful. I want to prove that going vegan doesn't mean giving up many of your favorite foods. For instance, I make killer cinnamon rolls. I got the recipe off of veganyumyum.com and have friends drooling for more. This morning I made biscuits and gravy from scratch- the gravy was made out of black beans, olive oil, and vegetable broth. SO YUMS! I'm having a vegan dinner party with a few friends this week and will be trying more recipes...I'll be sure to post photos and whether or not the recipes turned out to be good. (I'm sure they will) ;)

One of the most important things to know in order to move forward with happiness...

2010-12-22T08:46:00.001-08:00

Learning to accept the things that we perceive as wrong can be a difficult task for many of us. Often we have been brought up to accept that it is normal to feel guilty about our actions and that by doing so we will make everything seem alright within ourselves. Even though we might feel that we have a reason to make up for the choices we have made, it is much more important for us to learn how to deal with them in a healthy and positive way, such as through forgiveness and understanding.

When we can look back at our past and really assess what has happened, we begin to realize that there are many dimensions to our actions. While feeling guilty might assuage our feelings at first, it is really only a short-term solution. It is all too ironic that being hard on ourselves is the easy way out. If we truly are able to gaze upon our lives through the lens of compassion, however, we will be able to see that there is much more to what we do and have done than we realize. Perhaps we were simply trying to protect ourselves or others and did the best we could at the time, or maybe we thought we had no other recourse and chose a solution in the heat of the moment. Once we can understand that dwelling in our negative feelings will only make us feel worse, we will come to recognize that it is really only through forgiving ourselves that we can transform our feelings and truly heal any resentment we have about our past.

Giving ourselves permission to feel at peace with our past actions is one of the most positive steps we can take toward living a life free from regrets, disappointments, and guilt. The more we are able to remind ourselves that the true path to a peaceful mind and heart is through acceptance of every part of our lives and actions, the more harmony and inner joy we will experience in all aspects of our lives.

iStart a Fan War

2010-12-21T20:35:00.001-08:00

In case you missed it(or had no idea that it happened), I was in a recent episode of iCarly called iStart a Fan War. It was an hour long, special episode with Jack Black. Very funny and an awesome experience. :) Here are a few of the scenes:

Let's wrap up this year and stick it in the closet

2010-12-19T18:55:00.001-08:00

Change is good. Change is a must. I believe we must accept change in order to become what we are meant to be. As the year comes to an end, I find myself wanting to let everyone who has made my life better know how much I appreciate them. This task would be daunting as there are too many to count. Some people I will never even see again. Here's the thing...yes, I do chase my dreams and try to pursue many different things...but that's only because I am scared most of living a life of regret. I never want to look back and wish I had tried harder or not spent my life on a couch watching TV. I believe that the reason many people don't get out in the world and DO something they are passionate about is not only because they are scared of failure, but because they are scared of change. Come on people! Change is inevitable. It is here, now. I know that every single thing in my life has happened so that I could be where I am today. I am so proud of myself for the way I think, the causes I support, the people I let in, and the dreams I chase. I'm not saying I'm without fear....I just try to stay one step ahead of it. It's always chasing me---I just can't let it catch up! For the new year, I think I will make a point to change anything negative in my life. I will encourage others to be themselves and not follow a crowd. I will embrace my faults and work on the attributes that aren't doing any good for me and the ones I love. So...here's to change...here's to looking fear in the face and spitting...and here's to a happy happy new year. 2011 FTW!

Spreading the love...

2010-10-03T11:21:00.000-07:00

The McCruelty protest was a success! I was surprised with the amount of support from people driving by in their cars. We got many waves, honks, and praise for standing out there with our signs. We also got a few fingers and one guy said "don't worry about animals, people are starving," which, makes him sound ignorant because people are starving because we eat so many animals!! The amount of grain that is used to feed cows for mass production could feed the world. Something I kept saying at the protest was, EDUCATE YOURSELF. I really want others to educate themselves about what they are putting in their bodies; where it comes from, and what it takes to mass produce these burgers and wings. It's very hard to change people. All I/we can do is spread the love...spread the truth and hope others will be open enough to understand that supporting a death house like McDonald's is only helping the human race propel faster toward our own death. I recommend reading "The Way We Eat. Why Our Food Choices Matter" by Peter Singer, and "Eating Animals" by Jonathan Safran Foer. These authors do not preach a way of living, they educate. Don't you want to know what's going into your body? Nobody's perfect, but we can do little things to help. :) We ate at Veggie Grill after and it was delicious! Check out the VG=Cheeseburger - YUMS!
If you want to see more pictures from the demonstration, go here.

Giving helpless chickens a voice.

2010-09-29T16:07:00.001-07:00

In honor of Gandhi’s birthday and World Farm Animals Day on Oct 2, I'll be attending my first protest and I couldn't be more excited. McDonalds is one of the biggest fast food corporations in the world and they are also one of the leaders in animal cruelty. Millions of chickens' bodies are scalded/boiled alive. They are debeaked, poked, prodded, defeathered while alive, and tortured. The chickens that people are putting into their bodies are tortured meat. Our bodies should be sacred to us. Why would anyone ever want to put the carcass of a tortured soul into their system? If you'd like the cruelty to stop, please join us. Here is the invite. I hope to see you there! You don't have to be a vegetarian/vegan to want the cruelty to stop...you just need to have a heart. :)

FHM style shoot

2010-09-24T19:17:00.000-07:00

So, Mark (the boyfriend) and I decided to do a spontaneous photo shoot the other day that turned out great! He is so talented and I am so lucky that he likes taking my picture. :) I wanted to sexy yet classy/artistic/editorial type shoot and that's what I got. If you see these photos and want your own photoshoot, you can contact him here www.burmeisterphotography.com

Pretty Good People

2010-05-26T12:25:00.000-07:00

I have often felt a strong urge to help others in any way I can, to make some sort of difference in this crazy chaotic world. I have found two amazing friends that have the same pull. Together, we have created Pretty Good People! We basically want to do as much volunteer work, research, and good deeds as we can, and blog/video our experiences in hopes of helping people who'd like to make a difference decide which opportunities speak to them. (was that a run-on sentence?) So...we have created our blog, and attended our first volunteer day with Habitat for Humanity. My camera died early on and the only video device we had was Jenny's iphone, but at least we got some footage! Check out the video Jenny made!

I'm very excited for what is to come and hope you all will join us in our mission to make the world a better place!

I planted my first tree. A beautiful lemon tree in the community garden next to the home that we were building.

Here's Jenny with her avocado tree.

I hope you will spread the word about our blog and support us on our mission!

BCBG Fashion Face Off -

2010-04-13T22:17:00.000-07:00

So, this morning I get a link to this site in my email from a friend. Evidently I'm in a fashion face-off poll with Alexandra Daddario. I'm way behind on these numbers! I'm losing! NOOO! ;)

Fashion Faceoff: BCBG Geometrical Dress

NOM NOM NOM vegan life

2010-03-15T21:53:00.001-07:00

So most people that know me know that I'm a vegan. I also consider myself a foodie and love to try new things...as long as its in the realm of veganism. I decided to tone down my comments about being vegan on Facebook because I felt a bit of a backlash from it. I don't want anyone to think I'm judging them and I surely don't want people to feel uncomfortable eating around me. I do have urges to talk about how amazing it is to be vegan, though...so here it is- another vegan rant. :)

I have become a huge fan of juicing things. Carrots, apples, berries, cucumbers, peaches, pears, I could go on and on...
I usually have either a carrot apple ginger drink in the morning or a kale, apple, pineapple smoothie. I swear I have so much more energy throughout the day when I fill it with veggies and fruit. My mood is positive, my mind is clearer, and I just want to conquer the day! I'm still trying to find vegan cheese that I like. I am okay with daiya cheese- and some cheddar and mozzarella substitutes, but hopefully something even better will be invented that I can get my snack on with. I also recommend lemon water. Very refreshing when you first wake up.

I recently bought a book called "Vegan Cupcakes Take over the World" and let me tell you- the cupcakes that I've made from the book were spectacularly delicious! So far I've tried the basic chocolate with chocolate mousse frosting, the Vanilla Agave with tofutti cream cheese frosting, and the peanut butter with cream cheese frosting. Oh man, my mouth is watering just thinking about them! Next I think I'll try the
Boston Cream Pie cupcakes.

Being vegan isn't hard...it isn't hard at all...it's actually rather lovely. I enjoy knowing that I'm not eating animals and contributing to a horrible industry such as one with meat, and as a vegan, a whole new world of food is introduced to your life. Try it!

Unique Steampunk Designs on Etsy

2010-02-25T20:17:00.000-08:00

I have a new obsession with making Steampunk inspired jewelry. I spend a lot of time making each piece and I love that it's just one more way for me to be creative.
Here's a piece I made last night with a vintage watch movement mounted upon a silver filigree ring.

I find pieces to put together in random places: flea markets, garage sales, online sales, ebay, etc... My problem is that I want to give so many of my items away to friends! But, if I did that, I'd surely lose lots of money. I'm also a sucker for giving Twitter followers a percentage off. ;)

This bracelet took several days to make- I just couldn't make up my mind on where to put the gears!

Please visit my etsy shop and kindly heart any item you like! http://www.etsy.com/shop/cathybaron

LOVE

2010-01-30T12:55:00.001-08:00

Sexiest 71 year old I've ever seen!

2010-01-26T22:17:00.001-08:00

Wow, this woman has managed to find the fountain of youth. She is Peta's sexiest woman over 50- uuhh yeah! Id say!!! Makes me feel great about being vegan and (hopefully) being on the same path as her! She may look 40, but she's significantly older. What we put into our bodies really dictates how we look- you see meth addicts at 27 looking over 50 and vegans looking 40 at 71. Check out her interview here. Her name is Mimi and she's awesome.

Moooostache Party!

2009-11-09T21:22:00.001-08:00

I asked people to send me mustache pics on Twitter and Facebook. Here are a few! tweet me or FB me and I'll post yours, too. :) Be creative! Mustaches are fun!

JR May @jimbobmay

@caseymckinnon

Joseph Harvey Davis, Jr.

@jazmoore

@dmhunt7

@BADLATINO

@Chi_Mike

@joshgorfain

Franken's LA's vegan hot dog stand!

2009-11-01T18:48:00.000-08:00

Oh man, im so excited! I'm literally jumping for joy. LA has a vegan hot dog stand! Now I can finally enjoy the pleasure of walking out of a bar and impulse eating late at night after drinking cheap beer. You know that feeling...when you just want something fatty to eat.... I love it! I can't wait to track down this stand and scarf down this doggy goodness!
Thank you Frankens!!! xoxoxoxo, Cathy

I ain't afraid of no heights...

2009-06-22T10:20:00.000-07:00

Soaring through the sky!

2009-06-08T00:13:00.000-07:00

So today was that time of year again...my birthday. The older I get, the less excited I get about the birthday...BUT, I think I am going to do something crazy, exotic, exhilarating every year from now on. THIS year I went skydiving! I drove 2.5 hours north of Santa Barbara to a place called Lompoc to willingly jump out of a plane. I do admit, I was extremely nervous on the plane ride up. My tandem diver didn't seem friendly at first and didn't speak to me the entire ride up, which made me even more nervous. I'm thinking "does this guy want me to die...will he pull the chute??" But, it turns out he just keeps it calm before the jump and he's talkative later on. here's a picture of me before I jumped:

The instructor told me to keep my head back before we were going to jump and during the jump...so I didn't look down at all until I was falling from the sky.
The free fall is hard to take in. You really can't experience it all and remember what happened before the chute was pulled during your first jump. It was hard to breathe and my eyes were watering up in my goggles. All the while, the videographer is trying to get some sort of response out of me towards the camera! All I wanted to do was push him away. I do remember thinking I wanted the free fall to end and I wanted the chute to open. Mainly because it was hard to breathe.

BUT, once that chute is opened and you can talk to your instructor and float around in the sky...its just breathtaking! I could see the ocean and the mountains...aahhhh. I'll definitely do it again.

Earth School is in!

2009-05-22T22:53:00.001-07:00

A Life of Learning

Life is the province of learning, and the wisdom we acquire throughout our lives is the reward of existence. As we traverse the winding roads that lead from birth to death, experience is our patient teacher. We exist, bound to human bodies as we are, to evolve, enrolled by the universe in earth school, an informal and individualized academy of living, being, and changing. Life’s lessons can take many forms and present us with many challenges. There are scores of mundane lessons that help us learn to navigate with grace, poise, and tolerance in this world. And there are those once-in-a-lifetime lessons that touch us so deeply that they change the course of our lives. The latter can be heartrending, and we may wander through life as unwilling students for a time. But the quality of our lives is based almost entirely on what we derive from our experiences.

Earth school provides us with an education of the heart and the soul, as well as the intellect. The scope of our instruction is dependent on our ability and readiness to accept the lesson laid out before us in the circumstances we face. When we find ourselves blindsided by life, we are free to choose to close our minds or to view the inbuilt lesson in a narrow-minded way. The notion that existence is a never-ending lesson can be dismaying at times. The courses we undertake in earth school can be painful as well as pleasurable, and as taxing as they are eventually rewarding. However, in every situation, relationship, or encounter, a range of lessons can be unearthed. When we choose to consciously take advantage of each of the lessons we are confronted with, we gradually discover that our previous ideas about love, compassion, resilience, grief, fear, trust, and generosity could have been half-formed.

Ultimately, when we acknowledge that growth is an integral part of life and that attending earth school is the responsibility of every individual, the concept of "life as lesson" no longer chafes. We can openly and joyfully look for the blessing buried in the difficulties we face without feeling that we are trapped in a roller-coaster ride of forced learning. Though we cannot always know when we are experiencing a life lesson, the wisdom we accrue will bless us with the keenest hindsight.
________________________________________

go with the flow of life.

2009-04-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

Change. Change is good. Change also hurts when it comes to relationships. It's good to keep in mind that the universe presents obstacles, dilemmas, and distance in relationships for a reason. Sometimes it's to find out who your real friends are. Sometimes it's to help you and your partner to grow together. Recently I went through an ordeal that helped me to understand that I was harvesting and holding onto a toxic relationship. It wasn't working and eventually this person's anger,and eagerness to bring me down shined through. I'm grateful for this. I'm grateful that the universe protects me from toxic people. Yes, it hurts and I know I need to move on but I cannot always be nice to everyone and if I have learned one thing in life- its that I cannot please everyone and not everyone will like me. I just trust in the Universe and know that the right people will continuously be presented to me and the wrong ones will be weeded out.

The GiddyUp Gals

2009-04-07T22:52:00.000-07:00

Here's my latest creation:

Giddyup Gals from cathy baron on Vimeo.

the beautiful lady from vietnam in the nail shop

2009-03-02T20:29:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went to get my nails manicured. The woman who owns the shop is from Vietnam. Shes a beautiful 40 year old woman (who looks like she's in her 20's). She's 5'0 with a gorgeous skin tone and a beautiful, big smile. She told me that in Vietnam, the men don't like her because she's too short, her skin is too tan, and her mouth is too big. WHAT?! Of course, she said that here, in the states, men seem to like her better. ;)

My Relationship With Myself is Important

2009-02-26T10:05:00.000-08:00

Five Things

Our primary relationship in life is with our selves. No one else goes through every experience in life with us. We are our one permanent companion, yet we are often our worst critic. To remind ourselves of our magnificence, we can do this exercise: “Five Things I Like About Myself.”

Begin by writing down at least five things that you like about yourself. This is not the time to be modest. If you are having trouble coming up with a total of five items, you know that this exercise can really benefit you. Be sure to include more than your physical attributes on your list, since our bodies are only part of who we are. If you are still struggling with what to include on your list, think of what you like about your favorite people, because these traits are probably qualities that you possess too. Another way to complete your list is to think of five things you don’t like about yourself and find something about these traits that you can like.

Continue this process for a week, thinking of five new things you like about yourself everyday. At the end of the week, read the list aloud to yourself while standing in front of a mirror. Instead of looking for flaws to fix, allow the mirror to reflect your magnificence. You may feel silly about standing in front of a mirror and reading aloud a list of your admirable attributes, but it might just bring a smile to your face and change the way you see yourself. Remember, it is when you feel the most resistant that this exercise can benefit you the most. Because we are constantly looking at the world, instead of looking at ourselves, we don’t often see what’s magnificent about ourselves that others do. When we take the time to experience ourselves the way we would experience someone we love and admire, we become our best companion and supporter on life’s journey.

-DailyOm

Learning the Big Picture

2009-02-23T23:19:00.001-08:00

Learning From The Big Picture
Cycle Of Life

As we walk through the world, the people we encounter appear so different from one another. We see babies, old men, pregnant women, and teenaged boys. We know couples on the verge of marriage and lonely widows. We interact with toddlers and the terminally ill. As different as each person seems, they are all living the human experience. They are just at different places in the cycle that begins with birth and ends with death. Every phase of the cycle of life has its gifts and its challenges. Each stage is temporary and ultimately gives way to a new phase. This ephemeral quality makes each phase precious, because it will never last.

One of the wonderful qualities possessed by babies and young children is that they are unaware that a cycle of life even exists. They simply are present to wherever they happen to be right now, and they don’t give much thought to the past or future. Being around them reminds us of the joy that comes from living fully in the moment. On the opposite end of life’s cycle are our elderly role models. They are a reminder that each phase of life should be treasured. Time does pass, and we all change and grow older.

Being aware of the cycle of life and our place in it makes us wiser. As we develop a true appreciation for the phase we are in, we can savor it more. Difficult and challenging periods are inevitable, but – like everything that is a part of the cycle of life – they are temporary. When we are fully engaged with life, we get to savor and grow from each phase, and we are ready for the next one when it arrives. Fully embracing wherever you are in the cycle of life is the very essence to happiness.

-DailyOm.com

Should I show you this??? Ah, what the heck!

2009-02-22T17:00:00.001-08:00

I hardly ever go to myspace anymore. But I logged in today and looked around, wondering if I should nix my page. I forgot that I had uploaded videos over the past couple of years and saw that people were actually watching them! HA -- so, I have decided to post them on my blog.
Here's some clips of me practicing a dance routine about 4 years ago. It's a bit sloppy, but I edited it myself, okay..AND it's a hard dance to do!
dancing!

Here's a video of the tallest guy that has ever stood in front of me and acted a fool at a concert. I was there to see Walter Meego.
crazy guy at concert

cathybarondotcom

2009-02-20T16:53:00.001-08:00

I just updated some photos in the gallery. www.cathybaron.com
I'll be adding video soon!

Valley Peaks interview: Cathy Baron and Kellan Lutz

2009-02-20T09:37:00.000-08:00

Here's part of an interview that was filmed at our first wrap party for Valley Peaks. I just got my hands on it from my beautiful friend, Elvina Beck. (love her) Sorry about the bad quality. It was dark outside and then the footage was lightened. But, you can still see it so no complaining!!! I will post all of the interviews later if I'm allowed. ;)

Photography makes the world pretty.

2009-02-11T13:03:00.000-08:00

Yes, I admit...I love photoshoots. I do. (But I love photoshop even more)
Just thought I'd inform the world of some of my favorite photographers.
Kayvon Esmaili Kayvon is one of the most talented people I know. And, I have to say, pretty handsome ;)

ClickWest Photo
-John at ClickWest has taken my headshots as well as most of my friends. He has a great eye for backgrounds and lighting! Plus, he makes you feel super comfortable while posing for the camera!

Henry Jacobson
Brea and I have both had photoshoots with Henry and love his work. He's also a pretty cool guy with a hot wife. HEHE. (love you natalie

My Art Universe

2009-02-10T11:56:00.000-08:00

Ah, I love art. I tend to paint and draw buildings, dancers (mainly ballerinas), silhouettes, and occasionally just something completely abstract. Lately I've been doodling bicycles, trees, and faces. I'm completely driven by color. A vision I've been having for a painting I want to start on is a bunch of colorful buildings.... blue, orange, red, gold, green, turquoise..the works! - but with mixed media such as newspaper or string incorporated throughout, and abstract buildings ya know? :) - I have this pretty cool newspaper cutout that says "The World Needs More Love Letters" that I want to use- but I adhered it to a painting about 5 years ago so I'd have to rip it up to use it on my new one. I like to use rice paper for texture in paintings but I haven't done that in years so we'll see if I pick it back up again. I do know that I definitely want to start making videos of my paintings :) AND I definitely want to have a gallery showing of my pieces as soon as they are ready, too. Pictures soon!

Global TV and Valley Peaks

2009-02-09T12:08:00.000-08:00

Global TV http://www.globaltv.com/globaltv/index.html is doing an hour long special on Valley Peaks! They flew to Los Angeles from Canada last week to follow the VP boys around and get some great footage of how Valley Peaks is made. I can't even begin to tell you how exciting this is for the show! I had the priviledge to be in some of the footage, but I am most looking forward to the guys individual interviews. Tanner Beard, Kayvon Esmaili, Phil Donohue, and Phil Jessen are the geniuses behind the show and will give all of you a sneak peek into the world of Valley Peaks. As part of the documentary, we had a Valley Peaks wrap party on Friday to, well, celebrate the end of season one! Although, I was out of town (maid of honor in a wedding) when the photoshoot took place for the poster and I'm not shown in the picture...I did atleast get to sign it as part of the cast.

I am SO very proud to be part of this show and there has been nothing but GREAT feedback from fans and friends.
Here are some photos of the wrap party:

www.valleypeaks.tv

something i already know...

2009-01-29T10:01:00.000-08:00

I just read the entire story of the brazilian model who died of Sepsis, Mariana Bridi da Costa. Well, actually I read about 10 stories about it because I kept googling. So tragic. She was so beautiful and full of life. I sat here, looking at her pictures on her website and had this moment of disappointment in myself. Am I really doing enough to enjoy life while I have it? Am I taking care of myself as I should? I could do more. People are so fragile. I sit here and look at my hands typing and I see how fragile I am. How are so many of us able to escape harm as long as we do?? Sometimes i just feel as if i am floating in this strange world that isn't real and i need to wake up and realize that it is! Atleast for me...for me it is and I need to live in the moment as often as possible. Savor food, treat every moment as if it is a special gift. This is so hard to do, but for this year....it is going to be my goal. Treat every moment as if it is a special gift.

My picks for best restaurants

2009-01-25T11:48:00.000-08:00

I am a foodie. I LOVE to find restaurants/ cafes/ bars that rock my tastebuds. I've only been in LA for a year and a half, but here are my favorites so far for best vegetarian food in the Santa Monica area. In no particular order...

1. Bangkok West (Thai) -Santa Monica

2. The Counter (burgers) -- great veggie burgers! Santa Monica

3. Akbar (Indian) Santa Monica and Marina del Rey

4. Musha (Japanese) Santa Monica

5. Interim Cafe - Santa Monica

6. Abbots Pizza -- Venice and Santa Monica

7. Bulan (Vegetarian Thai) Melrose Ave.

8. Jack and Jills-- Santa Monica

9. RFD-- Santa Monica

10. Fritto Misto (Italian) Santa Monica

New Years Resolutions and things to get done in 2009

2009-01-04T12:48:00.000-08:00

guitar lessons

exercise regularly

put on music and dance every morning while getting ready for the day

drink more emergen-c

make WAY more money than I am now

tighten my backside

show artwork in gallery

skydive

buy and use a juicer

make an effort (this applies to everything)

tattoo maybe

make more lists

send cards to loved ones

make more phone calls

do 25 push ups and 100 crunches a day...atleast!!

learn final cut pro

make a short film

did anyone say demo reel???

It doesn't matter whether I live or die...

2009-01-04T12:41:00.001-08:00

It doesn't matter whether I live or die...the world goes on without me. This is a statement that I try and tell myself regularly. I can see how, to some, this may seem depressing, but to me...well, its inspiring. It helps me to let go of my egotistical thinking. Now, I'm not saying that I don't make an impact. Because I think everyones actions throughout everyday make an impact on everyone elses lives. If the guy in Burbank travels down to Santa Monica and cuts me off, preventing me from making the green light...I may have been saved from an accident-- or it could cause an accident. You see...what I'm trying to say is that we all have an effect on each other while we're alive, and for some death could change many lives, too. But the world keeps on going. It will always keep on going and people will keep thriving and the world will shine. So...there is no need to fear the unknown or to ever think that we are superior to anyone else. We shouldn't hold on to petty little things because -- well, Does it really matter???

Thanksgiving

2008-12-02T15:20:00.001-08:00

I had a wonderful Thanksgiving with my beautiful, talented, generous friends. I love how I have a halo in the picture!

Want to eat like a Nutritionist?!

2008-11-25T11:42:00.000-08:00

One thing you may not know about me is that have my B.S. in Nutrition. No, B.S. does not stand for bullshit ;) I have created a lifestyle of healthy choices and i works for me. I am often asked what I eat on a day to day basis or what buy at the grocery store. I have a friend, Tia, who called me one day and wanted to know what she should buy at the grocery store. She's so cute. :) The truth is, you have to find what works for you. I found joy in finding foods that I didn't know existed and experimenting with recipes. I still try to mix n match my foods. I'm also a vegetarian. I go back and forth being vegan, but I feel that's not fair for the true Vegans out there. So, although I'm not eating milk, cheese, and eggs all the time-- I still won't call myself a Vegan until I'm completely off of these items.
I figured I would start talking about food more since it is such an important aspect of all of our lives. So...here are a few rules that I live by:

1. Drink mostly water. And lots of it. It took a while for me to stop ordering a Dr. Pepper, or Diet drink when eating out or at the store, but trust me...its WAY better for you and you will feel and look better. You will also stay in shape or lose weight faster.

2. Don't eat meat. Yep. You heard me. No meat. Not only is it unhealthy (not including fish here although i don't eat fish either) but many animals are treated inhumanely in the slaughter process. You'll feel better and feel like a better person for giving this up.

3. Give up refined flour and sugars. White bread, cookies, cakes....gone. Now, I'm not saying don't ever eat them. But they should not be part of your day to day eating routine. Juice is in this category for me. Juices are high in calories and spike your blood sugar! http://womenshealth.about.com/od/fitnessandhealth/a/detoxdiet.htm

4. Pair protein with complex carbohydrates. This is a blood sugar issue. When you eat sugars it spikes your blood sugar and can leave you feeling a low when it comes back down. But, if you eat a complex carbohydrate (whole wheats and grains) with a protein you can avoid this and feel full longer. Complex carbs don't spike the blood as high and protein will act in bringing the blood sugar back to normal.

5. Small Portions people!!!!

6. Don't use butter Don't even buy it unless absolutely necessary i.e. Thanksgiving. I'm serious people...don't eat it. Cook with olive oil.

7. Vitamins: Co-Q 10, B-complex, Vitamin C, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Fish Oils or flax seed for your Omega3 and Omega6. Yep. these are all necessary and oh so awesome. Of course, your good ol' one a day will suffice for some of these such as the vitamin b and c.

8. Do things that make you happy. Live outside of the box! Paint a picture...dance in your room with nobody watching...act crazy! LOVE YOURSELF!

There are many other things that may be necessary in order to stay healthy, but these are some rules that I try to live by and have made me healthier and happier. :)

Thoughts on President Barack Obama and Prop 8

2008-11-05T14:21:00.002-08:00

It's going to be hard for me to explain how I am feeling today. The election is over...finally over...and Barack Obama is our next President. It feels like a dream..but -its real! I just looked through pictures on the Huffington Post website of people all over the world celebrating and crying tears of happiness over this victory. I've felt a sense of nervousness throughout the nation while Bush has been in office. And it seems now..that all this bad energy is being flushed away as a whole and now we can finally cry our tears of overwhelming joy for change. Obama reminds me a lot of Martin Luther King Jr....and I can only imagine what many African Americans around America are feeling about his win. Especially the older generation -- the people who have had to go through so much racial adversity in their lifetime...to see equality at its finest!!! It brings such outright JOY to my heart to see a Obama in office. He's poised, intelligent, passionate, and empathetic and most importantly...I believe him. I do think that one of the most important things we are to do as a race...a HUMAN race is to accept others regardless of beliefs, skin color, religion,or SEXUAL PREFERENCE---which brings me to my next topic. PROP 8.
It was truly a bittersweet night last night---finding out Obama won was fantastic....but as I watched the results slowly trickle in for Prop 8-- my heart dropped. How could this happen? How can we STILL be discriminating against others--HOW?!!!! This is 2008! Look at our past...look at EVERYTHING this country and our people have been through...its time. It's time to get over our differences and be compassionate. I have cried twice today about this because its just plain wrong! There are many different types of people on this planet. Nobody is better than anyone else. We are all composed of the same substance and we are all capable of greatness in our own way....but most of all--we are all capable of LOVE. Marriage is about LOVE. Not about a church. Marriage is a legal way (and for some religious)-- of showing your commitment. I know many people argue that in the Bible it says man and woman blah blah...okay...well, there are limits on religion you know? I mean there has to be! For this very reason...the law has to step in and put a cap on things that just don't seem right. The Bible also says eye for an eye--- but you cant just go and hurt someone without legal consequences. This is why the govt shld step in and re-evaluate what has happened here. Many voters have decided based on fear tactics and religion.....Now---how is separation of church and state still in the works if people are voting based on a religious belief? HOW? its not fair and something needs to be done about it. People do not CHOOSE to be gay...they just are. Bottom line. I don't understand how there is still questioning of this. If you don't understand something-- don't judge...go out and educate yourself. Ask a gay person! They will all tell you that it is not a choice. I also saw that the majority of people who voted yes on 8 were African American women and Hispanic men. Now, I also don't understand how....the people who voted for this and have been dicriminated against in the past can look themselves in the mirror knowing that they are continuing the circle of hate. Now--just MY opinion which I am entitled to...but it just doesn't seem right. Prop 8 takes away basic rights for a specific group of human beings in America and please.....let's do whatever we can to restore these basic rights to our fellow friends, family, and neighbors.

With all my love,
Cathy

David to the Rescue

2008-11-03T10:51:00.001-08:00

Last week I got a flat tire after leaving an audition for a show called Zeke and Luther. I only got about 3 blocks before hearing 'thump-thump, thump-thump' --
I do know what has to be done to change a flat, but I'm just not strong enough! I can't ever get the lugnuts off! I didn't have triple A yet so I called and purchased it but still had to wait 45 minutes for someone to arrive. The only person to stop and ask if I needed help was a guy named David De Luise.

He currently stars on the show, Wizards of Waverly Place, but he's also done numerous other shows and projects throughout his career. THANK YOU DAVID!!!!!!! He was able to get the jack working on the car, but we needed a special instrument to get the caps off of the lugnuts. So, he actually didn't end up changing the tire...but he put a wholelotta effort into helping me out...and I greatly appreciate it! Only in Hollywood, eh?

www.daviddeluise.com

Vegan Goodies

2008-11-01T23:10:00.000-07:00

I just made the most badass Vegan Pumpkin Pie!

Halloweeeeeen!

2008-11-01T15:03:00.000-07:00

This Halloween was a last minute decision on everything. I was finishing my costume as I was walking out the door at 10pm to meet my girlfriends. For the past three years I have made my costume so I felt it only appropriate that i make my costume this year as well to keep the tradition going. Michael's had a 70% off sale on all their fake fall leaves and vines so I bought a crapload and got to work.

I think it turned out so cute! What do you think???

Can you guess what I am...I even had a birds nest in my hair!

First we had dinner and drinks at Islands....in our costumes...hehe

Then we went to a party at a friends house in Van Nuys...

i completely agree....

2008-10-29T18:57:00.000-07:00

Of all the people I have ever known, those who have pursued their dreams and failed have lived a much more fulfilling life than those who have put their dreams on a shelf for fear of failure. ~Author Unknown

Obama Jack-o-lantern!

2008-10-28T23:18:00.000-07:00

I just spent the past two hours carving these pumpkins...but it was oh so worth it!

Check 'em out:

dream decoder...

2008-10-27T12:43:00.000-07:00

So last night I had a nightmare that I was trying to save all my dead animals from my childhood from a tornado. They all had something wrong with them and couldn't run fast enough from the winds. It was horrible!!! So, my friend, Liana Anderson (aka most beautiful woman on the planet) suggested I go to dreamdecoder.com and look up the meaning of it all. (couldn't find info on dead animals...just seeing dead people) this is what it said about tornadoes and seeing the dead...separately:

Tornado

To see a tornado in your dream, suggests that you are experiencing some extreme emotional outbursts and temper tantrums. Is there a situation or relationship in your life that may be potentially destructive?

To dream that you are in a tornado, signifies that you are feeling overwhelmed and out of control. You will be met with a series of disappointments for the next week or so. Your plans will be filled with complications.

To see several tornadoes in your dream, represent people around you who are prone to violent outbursts and shifting mood swings. It may also symbolize a volatile situation or relationship.

Dead

To see the dead in your dream, forewarns that you are being influenced by negative people and are hanging around the wrong crowd. You may suffer material loss. This dream may also be a way for you to resolve your feelings with those who have passed on.

If you dream of a person who has died a long time ago, then it suggests that a current situation or relationship in you life resembles the quality of that deceased person. The dream may depict how you need to let this situation or relationship die and end it.

To see and talk with your dead parents in your dreams, represents your fears of losing them or your way of coping with the loss. You may want that last opportunity to say your final good-byes to them.

To see your dead sibling, relative, or friend alive in your dream, indicates that you miss them and are trying to relive your old experiences you had with them. In trying to keep up with the pace of your daily waking life, you dreams may serve as your only outlet in coping and coming to terms with the loss of a loved one.

Richard MacDonald's "Born Of Fire: An Epoch In Bronze"

2008-10-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

Amelia and I went to Richard MacDonald's "Born Of Fire: An Epoch In Bronze" art gallery on Saturday in Beverly Hills and it was AMAZING. This man has such a gift. He captures movement of the human body in his sculptures that will blow you away. He uses Cirque de Soleil dancers/ contortionists as his models. Two of the men who model for him performed at the show. One of the dancers asked Amelia for her number and he's been texting her! HAHA! of course he is...amelia is gorgeous. I found these pictures up on WireImage so I took 'em and now they are here for you to enjoy.

Teen Vogue Fashion Show

2008-10-24T21:41:00.000-07:00

Went to the Teen Vogue Fashion Show and Party with Brea a few weeks ago. MGMT played! It was fun. Here are some pics:

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

2008-10-24T21:22:00.000-07:00

I really dig this:

Daily Activity to stir up life...

2008-10-24T20:08:00.000-07:00

I couldn't decide whether I should name my blog "This blog will change your life" or "Coffee and OJ in Hollywood"---and for now, I'm sticking with the coffee and oj. A big part of my blog is going to concentrate on doing something crazy and unusual everyday. Come back to see what's next on the agenda.

10/24 Tomorrow's challenge: crab walk down the sidewalk and get it on tape.