jaclynnicole-blog

[jaclynnicole-blog]

NEW TRIP 2022

I cannot believe the last time I decided to write was August 2021. So much has gone on since then but wanted to start off with my first trip away since COVID and the pandemic. I hadn’t been away for so long I’d be lying to say I wasn’t nervous about going away and getting sick. I didn’t purchase a plane ticket until I knew for sure what I wanted to do and it was to fly out to see Arielle Jacobs in The NEW Musical Between The Lines. Arielle Jacobs who is well known for portraying “Jasmine” in The Broadway Musical Aladdin. I came in contact with her through the virtual concerts I started (during the pandemic) through my online magazine and she helped get the word out about the very first concert which she was a part of alongside her husband and many other incredibly talented artists. I couldn’t thank her enough for what she did and honestly, Arielle was the inspiration behind it all for me. So of course I couldn’t pass up this opportunity to see her perform in NYC. I ended up staying with family/cousins in Newburgh and had such a wonderful time. My trip was planned for mid July, which finding the perfect date was NOT easy. I think it was meant to be and it was the official opening week of the show so couldn’t have been better timing. Summer was just starting and all I could think about was my first trip away in a long while. Beginning of June, headed up to Georgia to see my niece and nephew in their dance recital and spend time with them. My NYC trip was getting closer and I was getting more and more excited and anxious to just stay as healthy as I could before and during my trip. Days before my trip I only had one planned show to go to and was thinking what else could I see. Speaking with my cousin I had told her the shows I was interested in and go a surprise text message saying she had gotten two tickets for me to see two different shows with some of my other cousins. One being Six: The Musical which I had never seen and Into The Woods which was just starting their opening week on Broadway and was the talk of the theatre community (only supposed to run through August but is still currently running this Fall 2022). I was so excited three different shows and I was all set. The weekend of my trip was finally here, and I thought why not take a shot at the lottery to see some shows on the few days I had open and make the best of my trip? Well Saturday I got a text and email saying I won the lottery for Phantom Of The Opera for Sunday. The thing was I fly in Sunday and it was so close to when I would be coming in I took a chance anyways and claimed the ticket (Glad I did as it is now closing in 2023 after practically running on Broadway my whole life). I had seen the tour but heard so much about the original I was so excited! 

SUNDAY, JULY 10TH 2022

3AM my alarm went off to get an early start and make it to the airport in time. Wasn’t the airport I usually go out of so a bit further away. My dad and I arrived around 5:30AM and waited in the check in line. We finished there sometime after 6am and enough time for me to get past security to board my flight. I grabbed some breakfast and boarded my flight. Flight went by pretty quick and as I grabbed my luggage and headed outside, I spotted my cousin Eric ready to take me to their place in Newburgh. We grabbed some lunch and then unpacked. I changed pretty quickly as Phantom was an early evening Sunday show that started at 5:30PM. Purchased train tickets for the day, and headed out. The train ride to NYC was so beautiful. I got into NYC and took in Grand Central Station as I had never really gone out of there before (usually Penn Station). I arrived sometime after 3PM and ended up stopping by Minskoff Theatre where The Lion King has been playing on Broadway to see some young friends of mine I connected with online who were the current “Young Nala and Young Simba”. Then I headed around the corner 44th Street, which I have been many times brings back so many memories, and walked into The Majestic Theatre. Phantom was such a wonderful show and had the best front row view (lottery was $40). After the show, I headed out back to see if I could connect with any of the performers and happened to see Emily who portrays “Christine” in the show. It was a wonderful first night in NYC, and I was so glad I took a chance and saw another show. Before I headed back on the train; I grabbed a burger at Shake Shack for a quick bite. The train ride back to my cousins house wasn’t bad and was pretty early so all went well and I made it through my first day in NYC! My trip was going to be until Thursday, July 14th so my goal was to try and be in NYC everyday except my last day.

MONDAY, JULY 11TH 2022

Since I really didn’t have any exact plans for this day, I slept in and decided to just play it by ear but I had one other show in mind that I truly wanted to see as someone I connected with through the virtual concerts I held, Bianca was currently back as “Roxie” in Chicago. I didn’t head into NYC until early afternoon after having lunch and spending a little time with family. I walked from Grand Central to The Ambassador Theatre where Chicago was currently playing to see and inquire about tickets. I ended up getting a ticket for under $90 so I took it. It was an evening show, so I had plenty of time to walk around the area and just relax a little. I walked into a New York shop and bought a tote bag to help carry a few things and headed to find something to eat around the theatre so I didn’t have to walk much. Grabbed some quick food from a stand (chicken and rice) and sat at table nearby to eat. I had brought a change of clothes with me so I could be more comfortable during the day, so after I ate I headed to a place nearby to change and get ready to head into the show. Chicago is a classic musical that I had always heard a lot about but never had a chance to see. I was familiar with the music and loved every moment of the show. Bianca was an incredible lead and what full circle to be able to see her perform after she was kind enough to join more than one of the concerts I had hosted and I had gotten to know her through them. After the show, I was planning to say hi to Bianca but we had made plans to say hi the next day since I would be in NYC, Tuesday. As I walked back to Grand Central I took in the last two days being able to in the city on own and just taking it all in after being home for so long felt incredible.

TUESDAY, JULY 12 2022

Tuesday morning was pretty much similar to the day before just slept in enjoyed the morning with family and had a bite before leaving for the train station. Was seeing Six until later that evening but planned to be in NYC a bit earlier as I had a few plans beforehand. I got into the city late afternoon and headed back over to The Ambassador Theatre on 48th  to wait for Bianca to arrive so we could say a quick hi before she went into work. I of course brought the dress I wore the day before so I could take a quick photo with her. Bianca was kind enough to sign the program with her in it for me to take as a memory. It was so wonderful to connect with Bianca in person after talking online and meeting virtually. After the meeting, I headed over to where Paradise Square was playing to meet another talented performer Aisha who I had seen perform as “Anna” in Frozen on Broadway in February 2020, right before the pandemic closed everything down so definitely a special moment to re connect and I had something for her that was made back in November 2021 as she was supposed to be a part of a special tour. So glad I had an opportunity to see her. She stepped outside for a chance to say hi and for me to give her the gift. Then I headed straight for Six: The Musical to meet my cousin. I heard so much about Six and hadn’t seen it until Summer 2022 but definitely lived up to everything I had heard from others. One big concert (no intermission) what a great show and songs are written in a way that gives off the history and truth yet funny twist. After the show, my cousin and I headed to Grand Central and grabbed a bite to eat before leaving on the train back to family. I couldn’t believe I had been in NYC three days straight and the best day was yet to come. 

WEDNESDAY, JULY 13TH 2022

This day was one like no other and had so much planned and packed into one day crazy to think about. Family drove me and my cousin into NYC for the day so we can attend the shows we had tickets for. We left at a decent time and got into NYC just before Noon. We had plans to eat lunch and meet up with a Talent and friend who I had featured in my magazine in February 2022 while she was on The South Pacific National Tour. We ate at a nice Japanese/Thai place and just talked for a little enjoyed our downtime. Then we headed to 42nd Street Theatre to see the ONE show I had purchased a ticket for and was looking forward to all these months, BETWEEN THE LINES. I had heard all about this show for a few years now, but due to COVID, amongst other things got postponed but it made it to Off-Broadway soon enough! I was beyond excited to support Arielle Jacobs who was well known for being a part of the ever popular Aladdin: The Musical as Jasmine and took on the role in both Australia and then headed to Broadway up until the pandemic. I had connected with Arielle during the virtual concerts I had planned, and like I had mentioned in a previous blog, she was the one who inspired me to start them so how could I not support Arielle in what was the long awaited project and musical everyone was waiting for (Found out later the musical was professionally shot before ending in September 2022 and will be premiering on Disney Plus and have a soundtrack to go along with it soon!) We arrived early enough for me to purchase a few things at the merchandise table (for memories). We walked into the theatre a few minutes before the show started, took a photo or two and the curtain went up! What a wonderful show and message about how if you aren’t happy where you are at you create your own story. It is never too late to create your own happiness and do what you love. The cast was small and intimate which I loved and of course I had the best seat FRONT ROW! Loved every single moment of this show and the cast was phenomenal! I was so blessed and grateful this all worked out. After the cast bows we headed outside and I had a chance to re connect with Arielle (first met in person January 2022). Took a few photos and then my cousin and I headed to meet up with her dad for dinner at an Italian place a few blocks over. It was delicious. Next up, I headed across the street to meet up with another Talent I had connected with during the virtual concerts, Kelsey Connelly. She was one of the former “Meg’s” in Phantom of the Opera on Broadway. It was such a special moment getting a chance to meet and connect in person for the first time. Even though it was super quick and brief it was a moment shared and has a special place in my heart. I cannot wait to meet back up next time I visit NYC! I then walked to non other than 44th Street where The St. James Theatre is and onto the last show Into The Woods. The show everyone was currently talking about (and currently still running and has an extended run for quite awhile). I met back up with my cousin after of course visiting the merchandise table (can never have enough). Into the Woods was a pretty long show we got out around 10:30PM. We were picked up and headed back to their home to get a night’s rest before my flight in the morning. 

THURSDAY, JULY 14TH 2022

I woke up and had gotten done for the day and then headed to the airport for my flight back home to Florida. The flight coming back wasn’t too bad, except when we landed the weather wasn’t the greatest and we were stuck on the plane for about an hour before they finally let us off. This has never happened to me before and it was definitely not a moment I want to remember but what was the rush? I had no where to go and was just taking in every single moment of my trip by looking at photos and videos. My dad was there to pick me up from the airport and we headed over to Beef O’ Brady’s for dinner before heading home.

I cannot believe I had attended five shows in NYC in just 4 days! I was so exhausted from all the walking, had many blisters (and now scars) to prove it, but it was well worth every single second of this trip. I hadn’t been away and on a plane since February 2020 and what a special trip it was. 

Every single trip I take has always had unique and special moments that I will cherish for a lifetime.

[jaclynnicole-blog]

Sitting in my bedroom staring out the window watching the rain pour down as it has been all week here in what most call “sunny” Florida. The irony in that it rains quit a bit over the Summer. Listening to one of my favorite Musicals/Soundtracks, wearing some of my favorite Broadway Attire that I have purchased attending some of my favorite shows and just reflecting on what has gone on since I last sat down and written a post on this blog (August 2019). Almost one year since I took the time to write out my birthday experience and NYC trip I had last March (2019) which I now realize would be the last travel experience I had since everything has gone on this March (2020). Wow. that is really crazy to think about. March, being my Birthday month, I had plans to go to Disney to celebrate ON my actual Birthday (March 28th) which was quickly changed after COVID-19 started making its way around in March and everything was shutdown, including all theatre (Broadway, Tours, Local Theatres etc.). Around March 13th, Broadway announced their shutdown until at least April. We didn’t really go anywhere for the weeks leading up to my birthday. On my actual birthday we ended up staying in and just spending time with my parents and family who I live with (blessed to have been able to be around them at this time). My mom and I always shared a birthday month and my dad was not far off early April. At first I think many, including me, only thought it would a short temporary break from everything and not thinking much of it. Thinking back to December... right around the week of Christmas I had ended up with an on and off fever everyday for a week and along with that came a what felt like a never ending dry cough. I rarely have any respiratory issues but as you may know have other health related challenges I deal with everyday. We actually had family visiting that whole week I wasn’t feeling well, which I felt so exhausted but we rarely see them so I made the best of it and tried to enjoy them and also keeping my distance. the day they arrived drove to visit my grandma (my dad’s mom) who wasn’t doing so well herself and was in her early 90′s. She was always so healthy this just came out of nowhere and she was not getting any better. The day my family left a few days after Christmas, is when my mom started not to feel well and she had the same symptoms. Actually I woke up one morning to her sitting up on the couch and she had told me she slept there all night because she woke up not being able to breathe with my dad having to help her. It was for sure a scary moment. Soon after my family left, we had gotten a call and my grandma had passed away...It is definitely an interesting and empty feeling when you realize you have no one to call grandma anymore. My Nanny (my mom’s mom) had passed in 2015 after battling Alzheimer’s. Thinking back now definitely feel like COVID-19 could have been around a lot longer than just March that’s for sure. After all this happening in December, all hopes for a better 2020 was for sure on my mind. 

In January, I took my sister to see The Musical Aladdin in Tampa at The Straz Center (was her Christmas gift). We had a wonderful time and got to reconnect with an old friend I used to dance with at the same studio. I have two sisters and normally don’t get to see them much (one lives out of state). My sister in Orlando is the one who I went with and was so special because rarely do we ever spend time together alone. The carpet ride in the show is by far probably one of my favorite moments that has stood out from any theatre show I have seen. By the end of January, there was one moment I was waiting for since I would say October 2019 when we purchased tickets to see The Waitress National Tour. I had seen the 1st National Tour in Tampa with my cousin awhile back in April 2018 and fell in love with the musical and the music by the amazing Sara Bareilles and just knew I wanted to introduce my mom to the show. My mom rarely attends theatre unless I really mention a show so much she decides to go to keep me quiet LOL. So as part of my Christmas gift, we had planned to see Waitress together. On January 23rd 2020, my mom and I headed to theatre after picking up our tickets the day before. RP Funding Center in Lakeland, Florida is where we ended up. Flash back to March 2019 when I had saw a show there for the first time (since we moved only 15mins from this theatre) which usually from Tampa we are about one hour. I remember them listing the shows for the next season and hearing Waitress, I jumped out of my seat and kind of made a fool of myself sitting next to random fellow theatre fans (attending a show on my own) and just so happy and smiling so big about this knowing I would be able to see Waitress again and introduce this beautiful show to my mom. Flash forward to that night January 23rd. First time my mom was in this theatre (near our new home) and it had been a year since we went to see a show together, we saw “Anastasia: The Musical” on Tour in Tampa in April 2019 which was wonderful. Back to Waitress... My mom and I were in the the fourth row I believe all the way to the right of the theatre. They were wonderful seats and to see a brand new cast take on this incredible show was so beautiful. Enjoying our pies we bought, sitting together and seeing my mom was enjoying the show just as much as I was. Now this theatre is a little different and the show was only going to be here for the one night, and we took it all in. After the show, even though they didn’t have much time the wonderful cast came out the stage door and greeted every fan that was there to see if they would be able to get a chance to say a quick hi to some of the cast. I walked up to the little one Adriana who was touring with the cast for certain performances and chatted with her and her mom for a quick moment. I was a bit hesitant to walk up to some of the older cast members of the show (not the most comfortable making conversation with anyone new...) but little by little I did say hi and the last person I had gotten the courage to go up to was Bailey McCall, who was the current “Jenna” of the show and tour. I quickly said hi to Bailey and took a quick photo with her. What I would have said to Bailey if I had the courage to that night: Bailey truly took the role of “Jenna” and made it her own. The connection between her and the audience was unbelievable. The raw emotion Bailey put into her role was seen from the very first moment. I knew they had to get going pretty quickly but the whole cast stayed out as long as they were able and were so generous with their time.

Come February. The first weekend we ended up flying to New York for my grandma who had recently passed and there only three nights... that Sunday before had left I decided to head into NYC alone to see The Musical Frozen for a second time to see some of the young talented kids in the show who I had been talking with for a few years. Suri Marrero (”Young Elsa”), one of the girls in the show had invited me to meet with her after the show and I had ended up seeing Fiona (”Young Anna”) who had performed with Suri that night. What a wonderful memory from that night and to think back now my last professional theatre show I would see most likely for awhile (most likely one year at least). 

Ok so flash forward to end of March after my birthday... Things seemed to be getting worse by the day and being kind of told to stay in until further notice was at first not bothered by it much, but as everyday seemed to get longer and longer and the days just going by I felt like I for sure needed to start some sort of routine or something to keep me going. Especially since all photoshoots and anything related outside physically to my magazine was put to a hault like everything else. I didn’t realize how much I have missed taking photos and photography since I had stopped. When I first started my magazine, I had relied on someone else to help with photos and slowly little by little I had started doing my own photoshoots especially locally here in Florida. I decided to put out a submission request to have talent from anywhere out of state of Florida to submit their story for me to feature them on the cover (starting in April), which normally I do not do and have a separate spotlight and page I use to feature talent (as most who I feature on cover I usually meet in person and get to know them before doing anything.) So already I was adapting to something new. As the days went on, I came across a Disney Animator, Michael Woodside, who started posting how to draw videos of Disney characters. Every week day he would draw a new character. I don’t think at first I felt like I would enjoy it or let alone even draw anything close to a Disney character especially since I had tried it at Disney World (live) and didn’t even come close. It all starts with a circle. Really. I started with Mickey and ended with Minnie. Looking back I can tell and see how much I had improved since day one. He then took a break so I haven’t really drawn much lately, but I hope to get back to it soon. As I started taking on these drawings... come beginning of April and Broadway and theatre extended their shutdown and I just knew this was just not something that was going to go away anytime soon. I didn’t realize how much theatre has had an impact me in the last few years. Long story short, I didn’t really see my first professional theatre show until I was 19 in California, at a camp for girls with Turner Syndrome (19 was my last year and chance to attend the camp). They ended up taking us to see Wicked (2007) at The Pantages Theatre. Megan Hilty (”Glinda”) and Eden Espinosa (”Elphaba”) were incredible. That was the first time I was introduced to theatre physically (first time was Legally Blonde with Laura Bell Bundy on TV for an assignment in college). And my first professional show on Broadway was even later in 2015. Being born in Florida, it was for sure not often I saw any shows but I think all of this being introduced later and closer to my 20s makes me appreciate it even more. Also had found out Frozen would not be coming back to Broadway when everything settled and shows opened up. I was devastated and had a little cry but realizing afterwards how my last professional theatre show I had seen before this all started was Frozen on Broadway... that night now means more to me than I ever thought it would. I felt like I just wanted to help everyone in the theatre community from the talent on stage to those behind and in front of the stage and all around it. What could I do to help? Really at home? I was missing theatre and music so much and I would say every single person whether they realize it or not, has used music, theatre or something related that has helped them through tough times and not being able to go out for the little things and so much we take for granted this time at home has and still has made me think a lot. Being able to attend theatre is a privilege and is not something that anyone can just do. I have been blessed to be able to see various tours around and so grateful to have family still living in New York that I can stay with when I feel like I am missing theatre and New York. Not knowing when all of this would settle and things would be safe enough to even go out in general let alone see any shows wherever they might be was for sure hard to grasp. I had saw something that inspired me to try to help raise awareness and funds for an organization that helps those in theatre/arts and really anyone in Entertainment throughout their lifespan, The Actors Fund. Virtual Concerts and meetings had just started getting around and was something I saw an opportunity to try and use my platform and my online magazine to help and at the same time bring music and theatre to anyone around the world. What technology can do these days, is for sure something we also use for so many things but leaves such a huge opportunity to use our voice and platforms for good. I would say at first, it took me a good minute to figure out how I would go about this. Instagram was the app I was most familiar with and have seen many go live (video) before but rarely used it as again I am not the most comfortable in front of a camera or talking much. If I did go live it was to showcase the talent I was featuring and only focused on them. This was all so new to me, and something I was at first really hesitant about. I just still knew I needed to do something to help the theatre community. I thought about an all day concert and music on Instagram Live and to fit in as much talent as I could maybe just a short 10-15min time slot for each talent to perform one song and answer a quick question or two for everyone to get to know them a little. I started mentioning it to a few talent I had connected with through my online magazine and who I had previously seen on National Tours/Broadway etc. to even see if any of them would be be willing to lend their voice and take the time to do this during this time. I think one of the first few I had connected with was Bailey McCall and David Socolar who I had recently seen perfrom from the latest Waitress National Tour. Bailey and David were so sweet and so supportive and were for sure willing to join the concert. The first one was set for Saturday, April 18th. It all came full circle when I was able to connect with Christy Altomare (who I had seen perform twice on Broadway and had sang me Happy Birthday on my last trip to NYC) and she had said she would be able to perform at the concert. Arielle Jacobs (most recently came off of Broadway as “Jasmine” from Aladdin) had mentioned sending in a Press Release to Broadway World and so from there, the concert was well on its way to happening. Flash forward to the day before the concert I was all set and ready for the next day but also really nervous. The anticipation for sure had taken over with it all being so new and not knowing what to really expect. Re connecting with so many I had met and meeting a few for the very first time (I had been speaking online to for years). I just kept telling myself it was all for a great cause. Now at the time, Instagram didn’t have a Donate Button available during the live videos at the bottom of the screen while everyone is watching, but that had changed later on after the first concert. I was able to put the button in the story but overall the first concert was a success. I ended up in my room all day (and had so many who were able to participate) I didn’t really even have much time to eat. It was such a fun day of music and I would say the second it was over, I had this odd feeling inside of me. Not sure what exactly it was, but the big question was was I going to continue this once a month or just let the one month go as planned? Nothing was certain about the outside world and what was going on, and I decided that continuing the concerts once a month for The Actors Fund would be something that everyone could rely on and look forward to while everything else was at a stand still. I think consistency and routine is something every person needs especially right now. Working out a few little technical difficulties here within the first few concerts has for sure given me some challenges but overall, working on planning our 5th Concert now for August 22nd and it for sure won’t be one to miss. I cannot believe it is almost August already. Being so hesitant at first about these concerts and knowing I am not really one to make conversation or feel like it is easy for me (As you can see I am more of a writer than speaker) I have to say I didn’t realize how much these concerts have had a major impact on me personally. Mentally, at first not knowing what to really do with this time at home and being in one place for long period of time not knowing when this will all settle for sure has gotten to me... but planning these concerts has kept my mind busy and what a blessing it has been to be able to still focus on something I am so passionate about theatre and my magazine while being at home. Keeping me busy each and everyday and the consistency for sure has helped. I am always thinking of something more and what I can do to help others and to make each concert even better bringing those all around to one place. I do not know what the rest of the year 2020 holds but I do know that when theatre comes back it will be stronger than ever and the first show that I see (and anyone who is able to) will be one to remember. I for sure know there will be happy tears (from me) the first show I see out of this. For those in theatre and anyone that works beyond the stage my heart is with all of you each and everyday. Attending a show at any theatre in the near future I sure hope is not taken for granted. I for sure know that I will taking in every moment of the experience like it is my last. I know that may seem a bit harsh but even in life live everyday with no regrets. Do what makes you happy and never take the little things for granted. The past few months have taught me so much. 

“Music is The Universal Language” 

There are so many beautiful languages. We may not be able to speak all of them, but the one language we can all understand is music.”

[jaclynnicole-blog]

NYC BIRTHDAY TRIP (MARCH 2019)

Ok, so it has been awhile since I have written on my personal blog. Time to update and all that has happened this year. I cannot believe half of the year is over! Where did the time go? Well, the year 2019 didn’t really start off too well and was dealing probably what has been one of the hardest moments of my life. Our family dog, Romeo, (who had just turned 14 November 8th 2018) was diagnosed with Cancer in December... He seemed a bit better as we had a given him some pain medication to help but as soon as it ran out he was not eating or drinking... It happened so quickly and by the end of February we had to make the THE decision to put him to sleep. We had gotten Romeo my Senior year of high school so our first dog, Sonny, had someone to be around. I was super close with Romeo remembering every step of when we got him (Close to Valentine’s Day 2005). I cried myself to sleep the very first night without Romeo and will never every forget to this day still have this hole left in my heart...

This Birthday Trip seemed like one that was meant to be more than ever. As I sit here writing this blog post, I am listening to one of my favorite Musical Soundtracks, “Anastasia: The Musical”. It has a very special meaning to me and it all started last Summer (Read one of my previous blog posts).

As soon as I saw “Anastasia” for the first time, I knew I had to go back but this time I decided to plan a trip during my actual Birthday week and see the show on my actual Birthday. Mind you I was thinking this as soon as I got off the plane Summer 2018. In November, I started planning out my Birthday trip and knew I wanted to see “Frozen: The Musical” as an actual Birthday Gift so that is what my whole family decided to chip in on. I originally planned to see the show by myself but ended up seeing the show with my younger cousin Charlotte. Only fitting since she took me to see the 1st “Frozen” movie. My Aunt found a really good deal on tickets and we had the best seats ever! More on that later. as March was getting closer I knew I wanted to spend more than one day in NYC, especially sine I was seeing “Frozen” the night before my actual Birthday. Before I had even purchased a ticket, “Anastasia” announced that the show would be closing on March 31st, just a few days after my Birthday (March 28th). I definitely had a moment of sadness but I knew this Birthday Trip would mean even more now. Calling to get tickets was definitely a bit crazy I was afraid of not securing a ticket before it closed. I purchased a ticket which was one of the last deals I would fine last minute over the phone. There are two shows usually on Wednesdays on Broadway, so I asked myself what other show did I want to see that would be super special? “Prom: The Musical” had started on Broadway in November but had a long Journey before getting there and one of my former dance friends (we were swing partners) was a part of this Musical! I said “Ok, this would be perfect!” I quickly purchased a ticket and was set to see three Broadway shows my Birthday week! I was super excited as I have never been away on my actual Birthday!

TUESDAY: MARCH 26TH 2019

Come Tuesday, March 26th I was all set and ready packed for my week away. I was staying with my Aunt and Uncle who I always have a wonderful time with.My flight was at 7:30AM and I would get into NY around 10AM. My whole flight to New York, I finished up the rest of my book and biography of Sara Bareilles “Waitress: The Musical”. My Aunt picked me up and we headed back to their house. We had a nice lunch at the house and caught up. Mid day my Aunt and I decided to head to the stores. Later that night, my Aunt took me to a Chinese place that was super good! Was so great to spend time with my Aunt and was excited for the rest of the week! We headed back to their house and my Aunt and I sat down to watch an episode of “This Is Us”! As soon as we finished I got settled and ready for bed.

WEDNESDAY: MARCH 27TH 2019

It was nice not to have to rush out to NYC, but I would be there everyday if I could. I left for the train station around 10:30AM. Took the train into the City to get there between Noon and 1pm. I was set to see “Prom: The Musical” at 2pm. As I was on the train, I was texting my dance friend, Teddy, and asked about him coming out after the show, he sadly had told me he had something scheduled and wouldn’t be out. I took one shot and asked about seeing him quickly before the show. He said he could make that work as he would arrive at the theatre a bit later than some of the other cast members. I got into the City just before 1pm at Penn Station on 33rd. I headed over to 48th Street where “Prom: The Musical” was at Longacre Theatre. I was super excited to get a message on the way there that Teddy was able to say a quick hi BEFORE the show as he was going into the theatre. He waited until I arrived for a quick hi and photo. I was super blessed to be able to see him. I was at the top of the theatre but was super intimate and was still a great seat to enjoy the show! Before the show, I of course had to head to the merchandise table to buy a few memorabilia from the show I bought a key chain (I collect Broadway Keychains!), Broadway Program Playbill, and of course the soundtrack to the musical! The show started around 2pm, and ended around 4pm. This show was super powerful and loved all the dancing and choreography. What really stood out was after the bow, at the end of the show, the cast went right back into dancing.. As soon as the show finished, I exited the theatre and headed over to the stagedoor. I waited for Becca (who danced with Teddy in the show), to come out and introduced myself. I kindly mentioned that Teddy offered to sign and get a few other cast members to sign if I left it with someone after the show. Becca kindly asked me to leave it with Security and she would get it to Teddy later that day. I was so grateful to Teddy and Becca for helping me out. As soon as I got a quick photo with Becca, I headed back towards 44th Street area to meet up with my cousin Charlotte and her dad Eric for a quick bite before the second show of the evening, “Frozen”! We met at a fun little Japanese place near 44th Street and we caught up while we enjoyed a nice dinner. My cousin Charlotte and I have been very close since she was super little. I remembered she had taken me to “Frozen” the movie, so back in November 2018 I started planning my trip with her mom and we booked our tickets pretty quickly. I was super excited to take my cousin to see her very 1st Broadway Show! After we finished eating, we walk towards The St. James Theatre, where “Frozen: The Musical” was. Last Summer, I was quickly able to say hi to all four of the girls/talented kids who were part of this musical some from the original cast. We said our goodbyes to Charlotte’s dad for a few hours and headed into the theatre. We headed to the merchandise table to purchase a few items. I picked up my Playbill/Program with some amazing photos of the original cast which came with a keychain if we bought it online (Which I did while purchasing the tickets). Well, my parents did as my “Frozen: The Musical” ticket was a Christmas Gift from my parents. I also splurged and purchased a jacket with the “Frozen: The Musical” logo on it. We headed to our seats and were amazed how incredible seats they were! This is a quick story from when I was planning my trip. My Aunt messaged me and told me about two seats that were considered partial view right behind the conductor but one of my cousins had looked it up on a website to see what the seat view looked like, and guess what? The seats were perfect! So we purchased them because they were a lot cheaper ($57.50) than what the seats around it were (around $175). Back to being present at the show. My cousin and I got to the theatre pretty early, so we sat right in the front row and took in everything around us. I wished the conductor luck before the show and the curtain went up. I was super excited. Throughout the show, I would look over at my cousin and saw a huge grin and smile on her face just in awe of the show. I loved every second of it and seeing everyone, the costumes and every detail up close made it even better! There were some amazing special affects throughout the show and the snow coming down at the end topped everything off! My cousin Charlotte and I left the theatre with huge smiles on our faces. We headed to the stagedoor and had a chance to meet a few of the cast members from the show. My cousin and I said our goodbyes, once her dad had shown up and I headed across the street for one more thing I just had to do before headed back to Penn Station. The Broadhurst Theatre, where “Anastasia” went on every night was just across the street from The St. James Theatre which I was very familiar with from last Summer. Both shows finished around the same time so I decided to go pay a visit to the stagedoor since I knew the cast members were still out there signing. I waited until most had spoken to Christy Altomare (the lead “Anya”). I went up and I had mentioned to Christy I had come last Summer to see Nicole right before she left, and ran into her backstage. She did remember and then I told I was so sorry to not see the show tonight...I mentioned the next day was my Birthday and she wished me a Happy early Birthday. I quickly then mentioned it would be super special because I had a ticket to see “Anastasia” one last time on my actual Birthday and I would be back tomorrow. Christy had the biggest smile on her face and we grabbed a quick photo before I said “see you tomorrow!” I just couldn’t wait until my Birthday. First time being away on my actual Birthday. As I headed to Penn Station, I reflected on what had happened all that day. On the way back to my Aunt and Uncle’s place, on the train, I was looking at my phone and realized it was passed Midnight and my Birthday had actually begun! With a huge grin on my face I quickly got settled back at my Aunt and Uncle’s home and fell asleep after 1am.

THURSDAY, MARCH 28TH 2019

Birthday began waking up and headed upstairs to eat a little breakfast with my Aunt and Uncle. Although I wasn’t seeing “Anastasia: The Musical” until later that night, I still wanted to get into NYC a bit earlier as I had to walk back to 48th Street to pick up my Playbill/Program from the theatre “Prom: The Musical” was. I took the train back into NYC around the same and arrived sometime after Noon. As soon as I walked out of Penn Station I walked over to Sprinkles Cupcakes to get my FREE Birthday Cupcake (My fav Salted Caramel Flavor). Then I headed to 48th Street. Teddy did more than just him signing the Playbill and had most of the cast members sign the whole front of the program! It is super special and reminded me of the memories I had made the previous day. As I walked back to 44th Street I was thinking about where I could eat for my Birthday Lunch/Dinner. I did try to meet a few friends but nothing ended up working out, so I walked over to Buca Di Beppo (on 45th Street). I got my favorite all time dish I hadn’t had in what felt like years, pasta with chicken and capers in a spicy sauce! I just felt like having something I couldn’t eat back at home and treated myself for my Birthday. After finishing up my Birthday lunch, I headed over to The Minskoff Theatre where “Lion King: The Musical” was, and met up with one of the young cast members who portrays “Young Nala” in the Musical, Suri Marrero. We had connected on Instagram, Suri had done an Instagram Takeover for my online Magazine. Suri was performing on my Birthday night as she shares the role and they each do four shows a week, but I just had to see “Anastasia” on my Birthday (You will see why later in this blog post). I did get a chance to say hi to Suri and take a few photos with her in front of the beautiful theatre. Was super fun to meet Suri in person. This was all around 5:45pm so as soon as I finished I headed back to 44th Street and The Broadhurst Theatre where “Anastasia: The Musical” was. The doors open well before the show starts so I ended up going in and just taking in this theatre for the last time. I was on the second level this time around (1st visit I was about 8 rows back in Orchestra). The view was just as great and I still had a chance to get a an amazing video of the company’s bows (There were only around four shows left after the one I attended). Right before the I got a Facetime call from my Niece and Nephew wanting to sing and wish me a Happy Birthday, the show was about to start, so instead my sister took a video and sent it to me. During intermission of the show, I quickly took a look at the video. My heart melted with my Niece and Nephew singing me Happy Birthday. I also was sitting pretty close to the upstairs merchandise table so during intermission I was able to quickly take a look at what else I wanted to purchase from the show before it closed. I decided since I was planning to the National Tour of “Anastasia” in May, I made a quick decision to get the jacket with the “Anastaisa” logo on it. It is very thin and perfect for Florida weather to bring to inside places and very lightweight. Now the weather, in NYC, was a bit colder than what I was used to, but I still insisted on wearing my jacket outside after the show finished.The show started around 7:30pm so it finished around 9:45pm. As soon as the show’s curtain was down, I headed outside to the stagedoor. After about 10-15minutes some of the cast members started making their way out of the theatre. I was able to grab quick photos with many of the cast members (unlike my first trip to “Anastasia” I really truly just took it all in the very first time). Said a quick hi to Delilah who I had just found out that day I would be seeing as “Little Anastasia” on The National Tour as well she was going to join as soon as the Broadway company had finished. I gave Deliah a special ring I purchased for her, the understudy of “Little Anastasia” Annika”, and of course Christy. I truly couldn’t wait to see Christy again and explain how much she made an impact on me the second I met her last Summer even if it was just for a quick moment. It was after 11pm when the crowd kind of got smaller and smaller (as Christy made her way to talk, sign and take photos I mean with EVERY single person waiting). That was practically two hours after the show finished Christy was still out there enjoying every moment with her fans. As Christy got closer I got a bit nervous because I sort of knew what was going to happen but was a bit unsure as she was on vocal rest the whole week to take care of her voice for the very last week of the show. Christy approached me and at first wasn’t really looking at my face because my Butterfly necklace and “Anastasia” jacket caught her eye. But she then quickly realized it was me, from the day before, and said “isn’t it your Birthday?” I had said “yes” I handed her a very special “princess” ring I had gotten for a few members of the cast in the show to remember their family at “Anastasia”. She looked at me and said “This is your Birthday and you are giving me a gift?” Christy made sure someone was actually videoing her speaking with me as she was about to do something she does for anyone who mentions it is their Birthday the day of the show. Christy first asked how old I was, and when I told her I was 31 she had was like “ No way! You look like you are 25! I want your genes!” I quickly laughed (as I get that a lot) but she didn’t and at this moment still doesn’t know the whole story. I didn’t have a chance to mention I wrote her a letter last Summer mentioning a lot. I didn’t want to keep her and left soon after she went onto the last few of the crowd. I headed back to Penn Station with this huge smile on my face and kind of starting to tear up as I watched the video a very kind fan was able to take for me of Christy singing me Happy Birthday as I headed back to my Aunt and Uncle’s home after Midnight (my usual time).

FRIDAY, MARCH 29TH 2019

I woke up and had breakfast with my Aunt and Uncle. We talked about what were planning to do that day as they wanted to celebrate my Birthday a day later since I was in NYC the whole day on my actual Birthday. We decided on seeing “Dumbo” which had just began in theatres that day. After getting ready for the day, we headed up to the movie theatre. We saw “Dumbo” and headed out to an outside mall to make a few quick stops. Then we headed to an Italian place for my Birthday dinner. Of course I loved every moment getting a chance to spend time with family and was a great end to my Birthday week in New York. We finished up dinner and headed back to my Aunt and Uncle’s place. I packed up for the week and settled in for the night. Although I ended up going upstairs and having a late night talk with one of my cousins and Aunt. We had fun talking and catching up.

SATURDAY, MARCH 30TH 2019

The next morning I had an early flight out headed back to Tampa, Florida. The plane ride home I was reflecting on my whole trip and definitely shed a few tears realizing this trip was probably one of the most memorable trips that I have ever taken. Each trip I have taken has had their moments and memories but this one was just extra special. I have no clue when my next trip will be but visiting NYC is always fun and making memories (even if it on my own) won’t stop me from doing what I love.

[jaclynnicole-blog]

NYC TRIP JULY 2018

Ok, so this whole trip and reason goes way back a few years...

Through my online magazine I came across a young and talented girl who had recently been a part of The Grinch Tour and was moving onto something that I nor she knew would change everything. Nicole Scimeca had announced she would be part of the newest musical that had come to light, “Anastasia” as “Little Anastasia” and “Alexei”. I immediately connected with Nicole and was able to arrange a special interview during their rehearsals before the preview of the show started at The Hartford Stage in Connecticut. I couldn’t be there in person, but I had a very sweet and talented friend Chloe Lang who was able to meet up with Nicole for the Interview at The Theatre. Little did we know, Nicole and I would meet in person a few years later. Flash Forward a little bit to when I found out “Anastasia: The Musical” was moving to Broadway in New York City! Guess who ended up moving with the show and would be part of the Original Broadway Cast? NICOLE! I was super happy and excited for her! 

Ok ok, flash forward to 2018... “Anastasia made its Broadway Debut in Spring 2017 so over a year in NYC and the show was still going strong with Nicole loving every minute of it! Summer, I would say around end of June Nicole made a huge announcement that she would be leaving “Anastasia” to move onto filming for a Netflix Series, “Messiah”. I couldn’t have been more happy for Nicole but at the same time I flashed back to Nicole’s Interview and how I came to know her, and I realized I still hadn’t see her perform in the show. Yes being in Florida didn’t help any LOL . Well, I kind of made a spontaneous and last minute decision to purchase a ticket to see “Anastasia: The Musical” just to see Nicole. $156 later and around a $300 plane ticket I was set to go. My parents thought I was crazy and for a minute I was like “what did I just do?” but my TWO Day trip to NY turned into something I will never ever forget just wait...

So although I was only going for a short time, I decided to make the best of it. Started to see who else I could meet up with the one full day I would be in THE city. Thank you to my Aunt and Uncle who let me stay with them for the two days. My NYC Trip was planned from July 4th to July 6th. 

The start of my trip was super excited packing throughout the few days before. July 4th was more exciting then ever anticipating my trip and flight (which was later that night). I headed to the airport with my parents and we grabbed a bite to eat at P.F. Changs in the airport. By the time we finished we were done in plenty of time to catch my flight, but due to weather it was a bit delayed. I didn’t mind it just meant more time to just anticipate what was coming next. The flight was a little over two hours but we didn’t end up boarding until after 9pm. I read throughout the flight... Was working on the last Hunger Games book.My flight didn’t get into New York until after Midnight. I felt so bad for my Aunt and Uncle but they were so supportive and loved getting to spend time with them. 

So by the time I got to my Aunt and Uncle’s house I got settled in and didn’t get to sleep until after 2am. I couldn’t wait until what the next day/rest of the day LOL would bring. As I got up and ready for breakfast, I wasn’t sure exactly what time I was planning to be in the city but by 11am I had everything planned, went onto get ready for the day and head to the train station. My family lives on Long Island so the train ride to NYC takes around an hour each way not bad. I had done it before and was super comfortable this time around. We literally got to the train station and purchased my ticket just in time for the Noon pick up. As I was on the train, it brought memories back to when I went into NYC for the first time alone in 2015 and was determined to see “Matilda: The Musical” (Which turned out to be my very first Broadway show in NYC). I was definitely going back and nothing was going to stop me. 

I arrived in NYC around 1pm and set off to meet some dance friends of mine at a Hotel down 54th Street. I came off the train and was around 33rd Street and headed a few blocks to make it in time. I was heading to meet some talented young dancers, one who I had met back in Florida (One of my Magazine’s Cover Girls) Lilly Nugnes and Layla Goodwin (Dancer who I had worked with online and had helped me with some Interviews for my Magazine in NYC). I was super excited to catch up with Lilly and meet Layla for the first time as our connections truly came full circle. By the time I walked over to the hotel it was around 1:30pm. We chatted for a few minutes, took some photos, and sadly Layla had to head to her busy schedule during competition (but I was super grateful to have met Layla and her wonderful mom even if it was just for a few minutes). Lilly, her mom Lesley and I headed out to grab a bite to eat. We walked into The Melting Pot and had some salads and shakes. When we arrived back at the hotel, we ended up spotting another special someone, Jordan Matter (The Dance Photographer). Lilly and I go some photos with Jordan and then we said our goodbyes. As I walked down 54th headed to 44th, where I would be meeting Nicole and where The Broadhurst Theatre/”Anastasia: The Musical” I was grinning from ear to ear just happy to be back in NYC. I was born in New York but moved early on and was never able to experience The City the way I always wanted to. I made a quick stop at one of the numerous Starbucks in The City to meet up with a friend of mine, Natoli. We caught up and snapped a photo for memory. As I arrived at Broadhurst Theatre, around 3:30pm, I took in the surroundings and snapped numerous photos of The Theatre and “Anastasia” signs. I headed to Amorino (Gelato etc.) to meet up with Nicole for the very first time. I had time to just cool off and relax before we were supposed to meet around 5pm. As soon as Nicole and her mom walked in I immediately gave each one of them a hug, took a few photos, and then we just sat and talked for a bit. I explained how special this trip was and how I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to see Nicole in a show she had been a part of since she was 8 and was soon to be 11. As I explained I held back tears but was trying to take in every moment. around 5:45pm we headed to The Broadhurst Theatre and snapped a few photos in front of a few “Anastasia” signs. As Nicole walked into theatre for her call time, I met back up with an old friend to talk for a bit. Around 6:30pm we were let into the theatre, and I quickly headed to the restroom to change clothes and freshen up a bit. Once I walked into the actual theatre and found my seat, was around 8 rows back in Orchestra (Had to a decent seat to see Miss Nicole up close LOL). The show started at 7pm. Nicole started out in the first scene so it was super special. During Intermission, I stayed in my seat but was reflecting on the first half of the show and took in everything. The show ended around 9:45pm. “Anastasia: The Musical” was incredible from the costumes, to the set, the most talented cast Christy Altomare as “Anya” and the story behind it all. I do remember seeing the movie, I was so young. As I got up to head out of the theatre, I met up with Nicole’s mom and purchased a few items from the “Anastasia” Gift Shop. Once finished, we headed to the Stage Door and was let in with Nicole’s mom to get a quick On Stage Tour of the set by Nicole herself. On our way in, I spotted Christy Altomare (“Anya”) and asked if I could grab a quick picture with her. Then Nicole took me on the tour and we stepped onto The “Anastasia” Stage to take a few photos. What a special and moment thanks to Nicole and her mom. I had Nicole sign a few of the items I purchased and we headed out so Nicole could sign autographs for so many other amazing fans of the show. After we said our goodbyes I headed across the street to where “Frozen: The Musical” was and waited for the four young ladies who alternate the roles of “Young Elsa” and “Young Anna”: Zoe Glick, Ayla Schwartz, Mattea Conforti, and Mimi Ryder as I knew a few of them through my magazine and Instagram. As I was waiting, I realized I had forgotten to have Christy Altomare sign any of the items I purchased. I looked back thinking Christy had surely been gone by now 45mins after the show around 10:45pm. Christy was still there talking and taking photos with her fans. I was kind of an awe and shock at first. Christy signed and I headed back across the street to meet the girls. I was able to take a quick selfie with all four girls and was well on my way back to the train station to head back to Long Island. I waited for the next train which was around 11:35pm. On the train ride back, I had reflected on the day and couldn’t believe how fast it went and how many people I had a chance to see and meet. I had gotten back to Long Island well after Midnight to be picked up by my Uncle. I couldn’t believe the day I had and was exhausted. I fell right to sleep. The next morning I headed out to grab a bite to eat with my Aunt, Uncle, and one of my cousins Michelle. We then headed back to get my stuff and went straight to the airport. I sat at the airport a bit (we didn’t board until after 4:30 and flight took off after 5pm). I ended up arriving back home in Tampa around 7:30pm. On the ride home, I looked through some of the “Anastasia” items I purchased: One being the Big Program with many photos of the cast. I usually collect one with each Tour/Broadway Show I see so I couldn’t pass it up, although this one was super special. I turned the first page of The “Anastasia” Program and guess who was on the first two pages? NICOLE! Since Nicole was a part of The Original Broadway Cast of “Anastasia” she was in the Program! I also purchased an “Anastasia” Shirt and Key Chain. I held the “Anastasia” Key Chain in my hands and closed my eyes for a moment the second I was back home. I coulnd’t have asked for a better two days in NY. Thank you to Nicole and her mom for making my trip a memory that I will treasure forever.

[jaclynnicole-blog]

THE REAL EXPERIENCE X4

I couldn’t tell you how excited I was to request tickets to my all time favorite talk show, The Real again for a 3rd and 4th time! As soon as I booked my flight to California I just kept waiting for the month to pop up on their site to request for dates I would be there. My whole trip to California since 2016 was and still is all about working around attending The Real. No way I would visit California and not attend the show. My first experience at the show, as you may know, was amazing but this trip and experience was probably the most special. Why? Well, you will just have to read on to find out more! 

(PS I am listening to Adrienne Houghton’s CD New Tradiciones!)

On Tuesday, January 23rd 2018 (My 1st official day in California) I had gotten up to head straight to LA to head to Warner Brothers Studios to attend The Real Talk Show for a 3rd time (If you count my first two from my 2016 visit). The audience check in was around 10:30am. So my card they handed me at the start of the line, I think I was around 13th. Once through the check in, we got to just relax and chat for a bit. Said hello to the audience staff/crew members who immediately recognized me from my 2016 trip. They are all so fun to talk to and along the way met some new friends. I headed over to The Real Red Carpet and Step and Repeat for a few photo memories. As it got closer to heading in the more excited I got. Long walk to the studio but we made it in and first person I just had to say hello to was Bridget but I kind of held back until she started taking all of the audience members’ photos in front of the stage. That is one of many things I love about the show and crew. They are pretty open to allowing you to take photos of and around the set while waiting for the show to start and are just super friendly and open. I waited until my group, which was pretty much last. I was one of the last ones in line, and as soon as Bridget saw me in line she recognized me! Was so great to see her again and her energy and spirit is just so inspiring. To do what she does all day everyday takes a lot. Anyways, so we took a photo together which was very special and then headed back to my seat. I sat around the same area as always and was super excited for the show to start! As Bridget was warming up the audience, I just tried to take everything in. Once the show started, I listened and took in everything they spoke about. I do remember they did mention about following your dreams but how you should always have a backup plan. I immediately just wanted to break into tears because right now I am having a really hard time trying to find myself in the mist of what I truly am meant to do. Turning 30 next month, in process of trying to find a job (at moment kind of just need to take anything but don’t have much experience job wise (just kind of all over the place after taking care of my grandma for a few years and had gone through few preschool jobs and realized it just wasn’t for me). I do have a two year college degree just at the moment I feel stuck, and yes a lot of it obviously is me but I guess it kind of correlates with what Jeannie was saying too during the chat. I have never really been that confident in myself which in turn definitely has affected me. Ok ok, enough about me. So on with about the show. Once the show ended, I truly wanted to try to capture a photo with at least Adrienne who if you have read my previous blogs, I really truly admire and look up a ton. I kind of walked up to where Tamera was taking a photo and tried to catch her attention. I mentioned to Tamera that I run one of her fan accounts on Twitter and have been for years. She actually did know to a point who I was because i had recently written her giving her a heads up that I was coming to the show. After she gave me a hug, I quickly asked Tamera if I could take a photo with her. To meet her and be able to actually get the courage to say hi to Tamera, someone who I grew up watching on TV through my sisters was an incredible feeling. Then as I was walking towards the exit I spotted Jeannie and kind of caught her attention. Jeannie did recognize me from my recent posts on Instagram and my blog posts I had mentioned to her I wrote about Adrienne and the show. Jeannie then gave me the warmest hug. I again quickly asked Jeannie for a photo. Just as Adrienne was about to head out I asked if I could get a photo with her. As the audience walked out, we were handed our surprise gift which was the 2018 Grammy CD (Yes it is on my phone already!) As I was walking out from the show I looked back at my photos and realized this visit to The Real was one very special and probably most memorable one.

Wednesday, January 24th 2018 was again another full day in LA and my 4th visit to The Real. I started out meeting for a few photoshoots for my online magazine (At the moment more of a hobby) since the call time to attend The Real this day was a bit later, 12:30pm. The check in was basically the same as the day before, although on my card they gave me this time said #1. LOL! I was one of the first audience members there so it made sense. I was super ready for another day at The Real. I took more photos on the Step and Repeat and Red Carpet. As I we walked to the studio I couldn’t help but think back to the day before for some reason I just couldn’t get it out of my mind. They seated me again pretty much in the same spot on the right side of the audience. Bridget spotted me again, and I was really happy to see her smiling face again! Now this was the third show they were getting ready to film in one day and everyone was pretty exhausted at least I am pretty sure they were LOL! Bridget took photos of pretty much any audience member who wanted one, and again I went up in line to grab a photo with her. Once the show ended it kind of went by pretty quick, but I did happen to connect with Tamera again, and took a pretty memorable photo with her this second day that had me laughing so hard (It is my wallpaper on my phone right now LOL!). They handed each of us a water bottle that said The Real on it was was super special and knew I would definitely be using it as much as I could to keep these memories with me. Walking out one of the audience staff members yelled out to another saying “See you Monday”, and to think I was going to flying home then just really kind of made a bit sad to think the most anticipated part of my California Trip was over. 

I truly couldn’t have asked for a better two days attending The Real. Everyone who works at the show is super friendly and always feels like home when I come back. The Real I definitely can say is really my “Second Home”. I cannot say enough about how amazing and full of love each and every one in front of and behind the camera are! Bridget always makes me feel right at home and special every time I visit the show! The second I leave a taping I am always thinking about my next trip to come back to the show! I would be there everyday if I could! I could go on and on about this show and each individual who helps make it happen and are who I look forward to seeing work behind the scenes while attending the show! I admire how much energy Bridget brings to each and every show and audience member! Bridget pretty much remembers each individual audience member and THAT truly says something about her with all the fans she sees each and everyday! Each Co-Host brings something unique to the show! Adrienne I can relate to the most and seeing her overcome some of her fears this past year has truly inspired me! Jeannie the joy and smile she brings always seems to brighten my day and has taught me to stay positive no matter what you have gone through we all will come out the other side just fine if you just have Faith. Tamera I love hearing her perspective and her motherly advice. Although I am not a mother, her advice is always so inspiring and her voice and tone is just always so calming. Loni always makes me laugh and brings out the positive even in tough situations. Jennifer Ryan I admire your work and thank you for the support; it was so great to say hello at a recent taping! I cannot forget Evan for making me and all the audience members feel at “home” and although when I came to visit last month and hadn’t for over a year Evan still remembered me! Thank you all for seeing ME. I think The Real deserved its own blog post! Don’t you think?! I just feel something as soon as I arrive at the studios. I can’t stop thinking about the show and the next time I can come visit. My true wish is to spend my 30th Birthday, a Wednesday, at The Real in the audience but my Birthday is March 28th which is coming up very soon, so I doubt it will happen... My 30th Birthday... Dang really? I will be 30? 

[jaclynnicole-blog]

CALI TRIP 2018

So after the craziness of living in a rental all Summer 2017 into beginning of Fall, then staying with my sister and her husband in Orlando until October when our new house was ready to move into. For those of you that actually read my blog, you would know most of my California trips take place around September, but this was all postponed. By the time we moved in and got settled it was the Holiday season and I knew I wouldn’t be able to visit then...But I had an idea of when a good time to go was right after the Holidays...I booked my trip (In October) for my annual week trip to California for end of January 2018! Perfect to start off the New Year! 

Now my plans for my trip was the usual Photoshoots for my online magazine with my friend and photographer Ken...BUT I had to also work my trip around attending my favorite Talk Show “The Real”! The one thing I knew for sure was I was planning to attend the show at least two days in a row. Everything else time wise was planned kind of last minute with talents and availability. 

DAY 1: MONDAY, JANUARY 22ND 2018

As my trip started getting closer I got more and more prepared and everything started coming together! I was so excited to get back out there with kind of skipping a year I was so ready! Getting up at 4:30am was so worth it all! My dad and I headed to the airport around 5:30am. We got there just in time to grab a quick bite (Yay for Chick-Fil-A!). Went through security and made it onto my flight (One of the last ones! LOL!). My flight and times always seem to be the same exact flights so flight left Tampa airport around 7:20am. As soon as we took off started by keeping busy with music and reading the beginning of my book (The Hunger Games, yes I am little behind!). A few hours in I decided to start watching a movie, “Gifted”. Was a great movie I had wanted to see for awhile (Thanks Delta!). Tried to rest my eyes but definitely couldn’t fall asleep knowing the week full of plans! 5 hours later we landed at LAX! Walking off the plane I felt super excited for everything to come! I picked up my luggage at baggage claim and made myself comfortable in one of the chairs in the airport for a bit. It was around 10am so I had a bit of time to kill before my friend was going to pick me up from the airport. Around 10:30am I headed to the restroom to change into my Rising Talent Magazine Shirt and refresh before heading out as I had something super amazing and a special opportunity that literally had come up the night before my trip! As I got myself together, I reflected back to my 2016 trip to Cali and other trips each has been so different and this one was going to be just as unique and fun! So around 11:30am I got picked up and we headed to our first destination on location for a very special meeting with an young and upcoming Actress Mackenzie Hancsicsak,who many would recognize as “Young Kate” on the NBC Hit Series “This Is Us”! Yes, we were headed to their on location set! We got to our location a little after Noon...We ended up heading to eat lunch in the local mall before meeting. Mackenzie and her mom were willing to meet us in between during lunch hour so we although we didn’t have much time we fit in as much as we could in a short amount of time. Walking up into the trailer meeting Mackenzie and her mom was a special moment. I started out interviewing Mackenzie right in her trailer coming up with questions in my head. We then headed outside to snap a few photos of Mackenize for the cover. Many trailers around set we used it as a Behind the Scenes look and went with it. Walking around us were some of the other young talented actors from set, Lonnie Chavis and Parker Bates. We said hello and introduced ourselves in between our photoshoot. After we finished, we ended up talking with Mackenzie’s mom for a bit before leaving after 2pm. We headed to my friend’s house for the night to get ready for the long days ahead and went from there. Just relaxing for the night, I got prepared and confirmed everything and plans for the next day.

DAY 2: TUESDAY, JANUARY 23RD 2018

Well, part of this day and the next deserve its own blog post so I won’t go into too much detail here... Although I didn’t have to be in LA until 10:30am. We still left pretty early to be prepared for traffic etc. Couldn’t be late to what I had most anticipated 2016 trip, this trip and probably for every trip for now on. I was able to get tickets to my favorite talk show The Real. More details in my next blog post about the show itself and my experience at the show a 3rd and 4th time. After the show I had a planned Photoshoot with two young talents and at an outside location Grififth Park and the Travel Town Museum. Wasn’t too far from The Warner Brothers Lot that I was at for the talk show, so it worked out perfect. After 3pm we had set to meet. I was meeting Actress Shae Smolik who has been part of many movies among other projects and Singer Kacey FiField. We started out by taking photos and behind the scenes footage at The Travel Town Museum which had many trains and scenery that was perfect and different for my magazine. We then headed not far off to Griffifth Park for a few more photos and to film the interviess. Was super fun and loved meeting a few of the talents that I had been corresponding with for awhile online. Shae had recently taken over my Instagram to go behind the scenes of a movie she was filming on her last day with the movie. So when we finished it up was around 5pm and we headed back to my photographer and friend’s house and headed out to dinner with his wife and family. Was a long day but we made it work and I was super excited for another very jam packed day the next day, Wednesday. 

DAY 3: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 24TH 2018 

So this day was pretty similar to my Tuesday although it was kind of flipped, LOL! We started with Photoshoots at around 9am so we getting up at 6am was a must to make it out to LA at the right time. We were headed to the LA Skyline area for a few photos with a different a feel to them than we usually take. I again had set up two young talents at the same time. One was a talented Dancer Bella who I had come to know through Instagram. I had promised her next time I had come out to California I would meet up with her for some photos. The other young talent was Actress Scarlett Fernandez who is well known from ABC’s Soap Opera “:General Hospital”. I was super excited to meet Scarlette being I have watched GH since I was a teen and love Scarlett’s character. My photographer and I had grabbed a hot coffee before our long morning and met up with the young talents starting out with the interviews. Bella was first then came Scarlett. We then headed over to the LA Bride and Skyline to start taking photos for the feature. I had to finish before Noon to make it over to the Warner Brothers Lot for me to attend Day 2 of my favorite talk show, The Real. I would have gone everyday if I could but couldn’t make it happen. We said our goodbyes and I headed to Burbank to the studio . I was super excited to attend the talk show again I don’t even think I ate much LOL! Again, I will elaborate more about my second day attending The Real in its own blog post I promise as soon as I finish this one! Once I got out of the show it was pretty late and we headed back to my friend’s house. We two headed out for a quick bite and took in everything that had happened the past 3 days. I couldn’t believe it was Wednesday. Half way through the week already. Time definitely flies when you are keeping busy and having fun. When we got back to the house, I was actually relieved the next two days was just more relaxing for me and to prepare for the busy weekend planned before I left the next Monday. 

DAY 4: THURSDAY, JANUARY 25TH 2018

So I definitely tried to sleep in knowing I had no plans but I couldn’t help to think my trip was half done with already. I actually took the time to go through the photos from the Photoshoots we had done so far during the week by organizing and editing some on my own. Took half a day to organize it all but I felt much better afterwards. I then did some catching up on some of my daily shows like yes, the talk show I attended, The Real. But first I had to watch a full day of my Soap Opera, General Hospital. I knew I would feel much better knowing when I got home I wouldn’t have to sit and watch a week’s worth of two different shows from being away. 

DAY 5: FRIDAY, JANUARY 26TH 2018

So again Rest Day 2 was definitely more relaxing. I set aside the whole day to catch up on my talk show, The Real. I even made it to that present day episode which happened to be one of the ones they filmed that I attended earlier in the week (More about that in my next blog post). I couldn’t help but to look back to earlier in the week when I attended that episode and smile. I deifnitely appreciated my two days of relaxation as my 2014 trip I ended up catching a bad cold and wasn’t up for much. I felt this was much needed and a way to clear my head from the rush of everything all week. I prepared for the next day knowing we had a ton of shoots planned a a new studio Saturday. 

DAY 6: SATURDAY, JANUARY 27TH 2018

Our plans for the day consisted of four Photoshoots at a local studio. The talents weren’t set to show up until around Noon. We headed to the studio to get there around 11am to start setting up as we had each shoot planned with a theme. My friend and Photographer was super excited to use his Bentley for a few shoots and was the first thing we got in place (Of course we drove it there!). As he was setting up around 11:30am my first talent showed up, Kirsten Denina, a young Dancer who had won a contest I held through Instagram over a year ago. It was so great to FINALLY meet her! She came all the way from Vegas and was so patient in waiting for me to come out to California so I can meet her. She brought her winning item which was a Diva Dolly Light Up Makeup Case from an awesome company I have been collaborating with for a few years now. When Kirsten got there we started right away with her interview and she had even worn her Rising Talent Magazine Shirt she purchased last year from me. Once interview was finished, and we had set up for some basic shots in front of a white background, Kirsten was ready. Around 12:30pm the next talent showed up, Actress Ava Cantrell who I had been corresponding with her and her mom for a few years now. She showed up early to prepare for the shoot. Kirsten started her photos around 1pm and we would switch in and out with Kirsten and Ava. I slipped in an interview with Ava before she headed for some more photos. Around 1:30pm, Dancer Tiana Heaton had shown up for her 2pm slot. I had been talk with Tiana and her mom through Instagram for over a year through a project I had her do for my magazine, so it was super great to finally meet her in person as well! She too had a Rising Talent Shirt so she slipped it on to start with. I filmed her interview in the shirt, and then we headed over the background to do a few photos with the RTM Shirt and Tiana. In between we were working with Kirsten and Ava as well. In between all of this, last minute I was able to get Scarlett Fernandez and her mom to stop by for a few quick studio shots, since most were done in the sun and outside the first day. I am so glad Scarlett was able to make it to the studio (the studio photos came out gorgeous!) Soon after, a very talented Singer and our last talent set to come showed up Ruby Jay. Now Ruby and her mom had made plans to meet during my 2016 trip to California but it hadn’t worked out, so here we were making it work this trip! We got right into photos with Ruby and once finished we topped it off with an interview and a little bit of singing from Ruby. Did I mention each talent had at least two outfits they took photos in? Since Ava and Ruby were introduced to each other had become friends and Ava happened to still be there we all decided to head to a late dinner. We all decide don Lazy Dog a place I had gone to my last trip following another shoot. We all chatted and hung out for hours probably from 5pm to after 8pm. After making our way outside, we talked for a bit longer and ended up not heading home until after 8:30/9pm. By the time we got home, I think I would say the longest days of my trip we were beat. Many photoshoots in such a short amount of time. Realizing I only had one more full day left of my trip to California I was trying to stay positive and keep my mind off heading home. 

DAY 7: SUNDAY, JANUARY 28TH 2018

So this Sunday was something that came up last minute as well but I was super determined to meet two talented kids that I had been following on Instagram for a few years now. Kelei who had worked on a dance project for my magazine had recently moved out to Californiai, so I was super excited to work something out with her! Dancer Kylee Paige another young adorably talented dancer who I had also promised I would get together with for some photos the next time I came out. Before our scheduled time to meet both of them, around 1pm...My photographer and I met up with a talent and Actress Casey Burke well known from ABC’s “The Middle” for a little Mexican Lunch at a place I had been to my last visit. Super fun to get to know Casey who had done a few studio photos with my photographer but I definitely wanted to meet up to feature her on the cover, so we made it work after over a year of waiting LOL! So three more photoshoots to end my last day in California. At 1pm, we met up at my photographer’s work place for some awesome photos on some train tracks with all three of them. I started with Casey doing an interview right in the conference room. Then came the two girls and we took a few fun photos for memories and then headed out to start the photoshoots. I think it was around 3 or 4pm we finished with the shoot and I went back in to finish up the interviews with the two young talents. Once we said our goodbyes, it was time to head back home. Once we got back to the house, I immediately started to organize the rest of the photos from the last few days onto my flash drive and edit what I could. around 7pm we headed back out to pick up what I just had to have before leaving California, can you guess it? In N Out! YES! Couldn’t leave without it! Came back to the house, only to still work on the photos. I love looking through what went on throughout the week and all the amazing work my photographer and friend does to help me out. We always have so much fun and take in every opportunity we can. I think it was already around 10 or 11pm when I finally finished with what I felt I needed to do before leaving the next day. 

DAY 8: MONDAY, JANUARY 29TH 2018

Although my flight wasn’t until 10:30am, I again had to leave pretty early around 7:30am. I arrived at the airport a little before 9am. I printed out my boarding pass, turned in my luggage, went through security and then looked to grab some food. I am not really a breakfast person, so I grabbed a sandwich and headed to the seating area where they board. I was all set to go home, but truly did not want to leave. How fast my trip went by was probably the craziest part. Getting on the plan to get my mind off heading home, I quickly turned on a movie, “Home Again”. I think little by little I started tearing up because I knew this trip was over. Reflecting back each of my trips out to California have been super different but each one also has been really special in their own way. Every time I got to book my flight for my next trip out to California, I always feel unprepared, but as I get closer to the date everything always seems to work itself out. Trying to make plans with talent ahead of time isn’t always the easiest schedule wise but again things always seem to work out in the end. I even have a few talents set up for my next trip (Cross your fingers it all works out!)! Landing and meeting my dad at the Tampa airport I was super quiet, tired, overwhelmed. When I got home, I immediately unpacked and tried to catch up on a few shows before heading to bed. 

*BE SURE TO READ MY NEXT BLOG POST ABOUT MY EXPERIENCE BEING BACK AT MY FAVORITE TALK SHOW THE REAL!*

[jaclynnicole-blog]

F.E.A.R.

Ok, so I pretty much have been in active on my blog now for awhile... 

So I recently came across a quote that stood out to me and thought it would work for this blog post... 

“F.E.A.R. has two meanings:

Forget Everything And Run

OR

Face Everything And Rise”

So much has gone on this past year which is a major reason I haven’t traveled since 2016. I started off the year looking for a preschool job to give it another shot in February. To tell you the truth, I was a nervous wreck and was pretty scared and definitely had fear inside of me. Although I have worked with children before, I was hired as a full time teacher. This was completely different than my other preschool job as an assistant and had total responsibility of a group of children in a classroom alone. I was working right up until my 29th Birthday and after serious thought ended up quitting because the job just didn’t feel right and things were happening around me that made me really uncomfortable. I learned a lot from that job and experienced working two totally different places. I do love to be around children, but realizing childcare at least in a preschool is not for me. I also have been developing a huge love for photography this past year and have loved meeting rising talents through my online magazine to help share their story through photos!

Come April 2017, I learned we would be moving out of the childhood home (after 27yrs) I’ve literally known my whole life, at least from 2yrs old. Cleaning out the house and packing my things and helping my parents definitely was the hardest part of the moving. We then spent the end of Summer and beginning of Fall living in a rental not far from our old home. We moved into our new home in early October 2017. (If you’re wondering why I am 29 and still living with my parents? That I would say is a one of the major parts of this blog post.)  Independence is something I am still working on... In a way, it scares me a bit. My parents really never pushed me to become independent early on and wanted me to focus more on school. I went to a community college which allowed me to live home. Obviously, going away to college is where many start getting the feel for living on their own. So yeah independence is a big factor in my fear.

New fresh start, new beginnings. September is my time I usually try to go to California, but because of the moving my trip had gotten delayed. I FINALLY booked my flight to California for end of January 2018 and it will be here before I know it! 

With all this talk about FEAR, I can’t not mention someone who I always look to for inspiration and just someone who makes me smile, Singer and Actress Adrienne Houghton. So back in a few other blog posts I have talked about how Adrienne sings but she had mentioned she had stopped music for awhile because “she was afraid of what people would think of her voice.” As I am writing this blog, I am listening to Adrienne’s very first individual CD New Tradiciones which came out late 2017. I cannot express how proud and excited I was to hear Adrienne was putting out her own music! So yes at 3am I went onto iTunes to buy her album and to know all proceeds go to help rebuild Puerto Rico was such a wonderful feeling! Not long after, finding out Adrienne’s album went #1 on the Latina charts was something I will not forget. To see Adrienne overcome her fear with her husband Israel by her side who has encouraged her since they first met to embrace her beautiful voice. I then got to watch Adrienne perform again on of course my favorite talk show, The Real, but this time was different because Adrienne was performing one of her original songs which was super special and was such a huge milestone for her. I listen to Adrienne’s CD practically everyday and cannot wait to see what is next for Adrienne and her music! 

With that being said, my trip out to California starts on January 22nd 2018 when I fly out to LA. That whole week I will be working on photoshoots for my online magazine and of course in between working my trip around the talk show, visiting Adrienne and the girls at The Real at least twice, January 23rd and January 24th to be exact (Kind of ironic but January 2017 I got an email VIP offer to attend The Real again specifically for Janaury 23rd showing and was devastated I couldn’t make it) . With that whole week to enjoy my first love behind the scenes, my magazine, photography... When I do get home I really need to find at the moment, any job, to get myself back out there and continue to work on my magazine on the side. I just kind of at a weird place right now don’t know how to explain it. 

I cannot explain how in this past year to see everything Adrienne has accomplished and overcome is really inspirational. Adrienne has shown me that you should always keep going for your dreams no matter what anyone thinks. 

I am going to end this blog post with one of my favorite quotes and it is of course said by Adrienne Houghton herself.

“Find out what you are scared about, make peace with it and live fearlessly.”

[jaclynnicole-blog]

“THE REAL” EXPERIENCE

Ok, so before I start talking about what totally deserves its own post I have to begin by explaining how it all started. Well, I started watching a new talk show “The Real” during their 1st season in coincidentally in September 2014 (My California trip was planned for September of this year). This show stood out to me for many reasons which I have mentioned some in a previous blog post. For one, their theme song “This Is Our Time” stood out to me from the very first day. I actually have had it downloaded as my ringtone on my cell since the 1st season. In case you haven’t heard it here are the lyrics:

“This is our time Don’t waste another minute of it This is our time Grab ahold, it’s time to live it Starting right now, right now, right now, right now Its our life, we’ve got a choice It’s our time, so starting right now, right now, right now, right now Don’t waste another minute of it This is our time Grab ahold, it’s time to live it Starting right now, right now, right now, right now Its our life, we’ve got a choice It’s our time, so starting right now, right now, right now, right now Don’t waste another minute of it ‘Cause this is our time”

I’m sure you can see what I mean after reading it. To me, the song is sending a strong message to live your life in the moment. You can’t control some things that happen in your life but you can control how you react to it. Ok, now onto when I planned my trip to California, I immediately thought of trying to attend at least one of the tapings of “The Real”. I went onto their website put in two requests for the week of my trip. When I got the text saying I got tickets to attend two tapings of the show, I literally couldn’t keep it together. 

Now onto my actual trip to California. 

DAY 1 AT “THE REAL”

I got in on a Friday, but the first show taping wasn’t until Monday, September 19th 2016 in the afternoon. Literally, couldn’t stop thinking about the show since I had found out I was able to go. That whole first weekend of my trip all I could think about was attending the taping on Monday. The anticipation of being there in person and experiencing a show that I truly enjoyed and can relate to was incredible. So Monday came, woke up super early to get to LA for a few photoshoots for my online magazine. My photographer had to leave early; and I accidentally left my change of clothes in his car. So, around Noon, I luckily ran to The Gap and bought a few new shirts just for the show! Why not shop while out in LA? LOL! Check in at The Warner Brothers Lot was at 1pm; and I had never attended any tapings of a talk show before so it was all new to me. After check in, we waited awhile but they did have a Step and Repeat to take a few photos on for memories! Walking to the stage was quite a distance but it gave me time to try and take this all in. I was one of the last in line and when they seated me I was directed all the way to the right of the audience in the front. Which interestingly enough was closest to where the Girl Chat table is and I actually was sitting the closest to where Adrienne Bailon usually sits during that segment. I kind of think that was fate. If any of you have read one of my previous blogs where I talked about how much I felt Adrienne and I have in common, then you’ll understand in a bit about how special this day was to me. As we got seated, we were allowed to take photos of the set and in the audience BEFORE the show started (which I was so grateful for since most shows don’t allow.) As the theme song started, I sang along and saw the girls as they walked out. First out is always Adrienne, and my eyes immediately went to her. During Girl Chat, the first day I attended, they talked about relationships (which for me I can’t relate much because yes I am 28 and have never dated) but I still love listening to everyone’s views and opinions. Well, they started talking about weight insecurities and how you take it when a family or friend says something about your weight. I definitely can relate to that. Dealing with a thyroid issue I have, (Coincidentally Adrienne has mentioned on the show she deals with the same medical issue.) I am a bit on the shorter side and taking Growth Hormone had increased my appetite tremendously through my teen years. A lot of girls with Turner Syndrome struggle with their teen years specifically more physically among other issues. As they went on with the show segments I didn’t want it to end. As soon as I heard the theme song again, I knew the show was practically over. They did a few promos for the show and were almost ready to escort the audience out when one of the hosts, Jeannie Mai, came towards audience to wave goodbye, and I kind of quietly asked her if she could just let Adrienne know that I wrote a blog post about her. I just expected Jeannie to tell Adrienne later, but she turned around and called Adrienne over. I kind of was in shock as Adrienne then asked for the link to my blog. She pulled it up on her phone checked with me to make sure it was my page and then they had to go off set. I knew she would read it so I left the set in such shock and was a moment I won’t forget. I really didn’t want to leave the set as I had no clue if I was truly able to make it the next day (I didn’t have any plans for any photoshoots, and I don’t drive so getting a ride there was not certain.) I kind of shedded a few tears leaving the set. 

DAY 2 AT “THE REAL”

So after staying up late the night before trying to find a ride there (Was going to take Uber back to my photographer’s house). I found a ride through a great friend who happened to be available only part of the day. So Uber back was ok with me. Check in was 1pm same as day before, but I was even more excited to come back especially since it almost didn’t happen. I was one of the first there this time and was one of the first to be seated. I got to choose my seat and so many seats were open but what did I do? I ended up sitting in the same spot as the day before closest to The Girl Chat table and where Adrienne sits. As they girls took a break from their first segment, Adrienne I think had to look twice but she did recognize me in the audience. She did say thank you from a distance which meant the world to me. During their Girl Chat this second day was really funny because they actually talked about Uber and their ratings. Adrienne had quite a lot to say as she doesn’t drive, (Neither do I) So it was so interesting and what a coincidence they spoke about that subject when I was planning to take Uber back to where I was staying (Although some nice ladies in the audience I spoke to before hand offered to help me get back). Both days I attended Adrienne did come into audience for segments which was great to watch! As the show ended I was super sad, knowing I couldn’t attend their last taping (For the week) the next day, as I had other plans to be on a TV show set to interview one of the actors for my online magazine which was a huge opportunity for me, but I really would have loved to attend a third day. I have to admit I was able to take in the second day of the taping so much more as I was truly in shock the first day attending “The Real”. Attending the talk show tapings was such an incredible experience and memory I won’t ever forget! Thank you to the MC, Bridget who was super sweet and hilarious keeping the audience going throughout both of the shows! Next time I am out in Cali, I will definitely be attending a few more tapings of “The Real”. Well, as I write this blog I realize the episode that aired today, (Oct. 17th 2016) was the first taping of the show I attended! The second taping had aired awhile ago (Sept. 23rd 2016) which ironically I had to head back home from Califorina that day but had a chance to watch both episodes and of course broke down wishing I was right back in audience watching “The Real”. For one, all I wanted to do was give Adrienne a hug and tell her I meant every word of the blog post I wrote about her and hope to talk to her someday on a more personal level about everything. 

[jaclynnicole-blog]

CALIFORNIA TRIP 2016

WOW. So I cannot believe it has been over a year and a half since I have written a new blog post...

It had been almost two years since I made my trip out to California for my online magazine. It was definitely time to get back out there! Last minute planning I FINALLY booked my flight to Cali in August 2016! My week trip was planned for September 16th to September 23rd 2016! I was super excited and as it got closer my plans were coming together and was super excited for so many new experiences! Shopping for last minute needed items for my trip with my mom was a fun memory and created even more anticipation! Alright, now for the actual trip details!

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16TH 2016

My flight out to California was super early but I never mind the crazy flight times as long as I get a chance to visit! I got up around 4am and headed to airport for my flight at 6:50am! The five hour flight went by super quick after waking up an hour and a half before landing in Cali, I must have been super tired LOL! As soon as I landed, I picked up my luggage and waited for a few hours at airport, as my good friend and photographer who helps me while I am out in Cali, would be at airport later in day. It was a great time to relax and reflect as well as plan a last minute photoshoot that came up as soon as I left airport (Around 4pm) we headed to the park off Santa Monica Pier to meet up with Singer Maylin Fox for our first Cover Photoshoot during this trip! By the time we finished it was around 6:30pm and we headed to eat a burger place near Pier. By the time we headed back to the house it was after 9:30pm... I was exhausted and fell right to sleep but not after setting everything up for the next day! I had plans everyday for the week I was there and was bracing myself for a fun filled trip!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH 2016

First morning in Cali and it felt great! We had plans for two photoshoots around 10am close to the house. First up, was Actress Madison Leisle who was on cover of my magazine in March 2012 but I decided to start a new “Where Are They Now?” segment. Was so great to see and catch up with Madison again! Two hours later, Singer Laci Kay came into the picture, who I had met for the first time. In between the shoots, I interviewed the both of them and then we were done for the day! We used some trains and the edgy fell as the look for the photoshoots that day and it went really well! We headed to lunch at Islands Restaurant which was delicious! Then it was back to the house for the night but last minute plans I ended up meeting up with a Dancer I was planning to work with later in the week for a nice dinner. Was great meeting new friends and got me excited for the rest of the week ahead! My trip was just getting started!

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH 2016

This was my day to relax and I enjoyed it so much as I knew how much I had planned for during the week, especially after being a bit under the weather my last trip to Cali. I just hung out and enjoyed my day but not after grabbing a bite for dinner at Fazoli’s to end the night. Bracing myself for one of the busiest days the next day.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH 2016

So getting up early was super necessary for LA traffic but was so worth what was happening throughout the day! First up some photoshoots with a few talents out in Griffith Park! One girl Joelle Better is a Dancer and Actress who I have come to knew online for awhile and was excited to meet her in person! Singer and Actress Sara Rowe was the second talent I had booked for the day! I was so excited to meet her as well for the very reason of her being part of my magazine in a very big way! She has been helping me out with interviews, in Cali as one of my Junior Reporters! We met at park around 10am and got started with the photoshoot right away! Was so fun meeting up with them and seeing the girls interact with each other as they were familiar with each other and are good friends. Around 11:30 my photographer left and we stuck around to do a few interviews. Around Noon Joelle and her dad had so kindly dropped me off at Warner Brothers Studios to see a taping of my favorite talk show “The Real” but not after making a quick stop in The Gap to buy a few shirts for the taping LOL (Left my planned shirt in my photographer’s car.) My experience at the taping of the talk show was so much more than I can describe in words but I’ll leave that for another blog post because it was a super special day. Later on the day, getting out of the talk show taping around 5:30, a last minute meeting with Actress and Dancer Aubrey Miller and her mom. Was so great getting a chance to meet Aubrey and her mom as I had been talking to them for a few years and our meet ups never seemed to work out but was a great and unexpected memory! After heading back to our area, we grabbed some In N’ Out for dinner. Unsure about final plans for the next day I was up a bit working it all out.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20th 2016

I wasn’t sure I was going to make it a second show but I was able to get over to The Warner Brothers Lot through another friend of mine and was super excited to attend the taping again. Was definitely not expecting it to work out a second day! I’ll tell you more about the the show taping experience in another blog post, PROMISE! After the show taping I headed back to my photographer’s area and we grabbed a bite at a Mexican restaurant. The next day was one I was looking forward to my whole trip.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST 2016

So this day was a super special day for so many reasons. We were heading to LA again for the day and wow what a day it was! I had made plans to meet up with a great friend and Actress who I had been talking to online for a few years but have never met, Kelly Heyer. My photographer and I arrived in LA around 10am and decided to meet up at Lemonade just around the corner from The Paramount Lot! When Kelly arrived we immediately hugged and connected. It was incredible to FINALLY meet Kelly after so many years of talking. I grabbed a quick bite while there but the time went by so quickly. Soon enough we were saying our goodbyes. The next part of the day was definitely something special. A few weeks before my trip, I was invited by a young Actress and her mom to visit them on set. Let me introduce you to her... 5yr old Actress Maya Clark a super sweet and imaginative girl with lots of talent and works on set of Nickelodeon’s “The Thundermans”. I had been talking to Maya’s mom for over a year and was so glad setting up this interview worked out. So our meeting was set for 1pm at The Paramount Lot. We headed to the stage to meet and worked our way to Maya’s dressing room but not after taking in the set around us. After meeting and introducing ourselves, got right to work and headed to the living room set to start filming the interview. Maya was a trooper! After the interview, Maya showed us around set, while we took a few photos and filmed for my magazine. We took a break and walked around off set for awhile. We ran into some of the other actors on the show Kira Kosarin, Addison Riecke, Diego Velazquez, and Audrey Whitby who were all super sweet! I had a chance to take a photo with the group. Around 2:30pm, it was then time for the cast to rehearse for the week’s episode and we headed to the stands to watch it all. While walking back from another stage, Maya’s mom introduced me to her daughter’s set mom and Actress Rosa Blasi. Now this was one memory I will never every forget. Rosa was my very first autographs. When I was in high school I wrote her a letter while she was on “Strong Medicine” explaining how I was planning to enroll in the nursing program in college. She sent me an autograph back wishing me luck and it was so surreal to meet and thank her in person and. We then headed back to Maya’s dressing room to finish up her interview and talk a bit. This was such a special experience I can’t even begin to describe how much this opportunity meant to me (Thank you Aimee). After saying our goodbyes, we left the set. Fun Fact: Maya and I share the same birthday, March 28th! We then headed back to the house but not before having a nice dinner at The Shima Japanese restaurant.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22ND 2016

My last full day in California. I couldn’t believe how quick my week trip had gone by but I still had a full day planned and was going to make the most of it! We planned a few photoshoots at a local photography studio. We arrived around 10am meeting with our two morning talents, Rapper B’ Rayne and Dancer Hayden Calder. I heard about Brooke through music producer Andrew Lane, who yes if you are familiar with High School Musical, Hannah Montana and the Princess Diaries soundtracks as well as Lexi, his name might sound familiar to you. Brooke and her mom are the sweetest and it was a pleasure working with them at the studio! I have followed Hayden for awhile, but Dancer Morgan and her mom had gotten me in touch with them to set up a Photoshoot. Hayden is adorable and she just had the cutest outfit for the shoot! We had fun with the photoshoots and Brooke and Hayden definitely became great new friends! After the photoshoots we did the interviews in hair and makeup room and then wrapped it up for the morning. My photographer and I headed to lunch at Marie Calenders restaurant. Yes, if you are familiiar with the pies LOL! The afternoon photoshoot sessions started around 3pm. Dancer Morgan Landrigan and her mom who I had met up with for dinner at the beginning of my trip arrived and then DancerJessalyn Pearl Hall and her mom arrived. The girls alternated taking photos and had lots of fun in between the shoot. I filmed the girls interviews in the hair and make up room following the photoshoot. After finishing up around 5:30, I had made plans to head to dinner with Jessalyn and her mom. We ended up eating at Lazy Dog Cafe which was kind of ironic because she had her puppy with her! My last night in Cali was bittersweet. I didn’t want to leave yet, but I did miss home. I loved every minute of my trip!

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23RD 2016

I was up bright and early for my trip back home to Florida. Taking the shuttle to airport I reflected back on my trip, The flight back home was only 4 hours but I was still super exhausted. I managed to watch a few movies on flgiht “Mother’s Day” and “The Peanuts Movie” which happened to finish just in time for when I landed around 6pm East Coast time. I headed right to dinner with some family and friends. I ended up not arriving back home until after 9pm. I am hoping to visit Cali next year but lately it has been every other year... Praying next year works out because each of my trips to California has been memorable in such a different way!

[jaclynnicole-blog]

Reflecting...

I haven’t posted in awhile and after a rough start to the year and this past February, the one thing that gets me through it all is watching one very unique and different talk show, “The Real”. The show involves five very different ladies who share their unique point of views but also make you feel like you are casually talking to someone close to you. They always start with what is called “Girl Chat”, and I love it because I get to know more about each and every Co Host on the show. They all seem to make me laugh, cry, and practically express so many emotions within the first 15 minutes of the show. 

There is one Co-Host though that truly stands out to me. Maybe because I can relate more to her being so close in age? Adrienne Bailon a beautiful and talented Actress who also has a singing voice of an Angel. I have been following Adrienne since yes the Disney days, as she was one of the girls from the group The Cheetah Girls. I collected the CDs and there was a song that stood out to me because of Adrienne... A Spanish Lullaby that she took the lead on singing in Spanish and it touched me. I actually used to listen to it every night for awhile... Ever since, I have been following Adrienne’s career and have been such a huge fan of hers from what feels like ages. I am 26, so we are pretty close in age, and I now realize that Adrienne and I truly have a lot in common I don’t know where to really start. I know she has a love for New York for many reasons, one being she was born in NYC. Well, I was also born in New York. Although, I moved to Florida when I was two I still and always have felt connected to New York. If that wasn’t enough, there is still so much we share in common. I know Adrienne is around 4′11 in height, and I was always shorter than my peers. In grade school, I grew up getting picked on for how short I was. Even one of my middle school teachers had a nickname for me because of my short stature. I was known as the munchkin of the middle school making it through middle school not even hitting 4′11 and was a size two shoe for years. It was in my first year of middle school that I did get diagnosed with a condition Doctor’s call Turner Syndrome which my height played a small part in diagnosing me but deals with a lot of the “physical aspects” of middle school age. Went through so much in middle school with so many different emotions because of my lack of confidence. Even in high school I would get picked on in ways I don’t even want to elaborate on but I did end up taking Growth Hormone up until the age of fifteen. I am now just about 5′3 around my mom’s height. It did give me a bit of confidence but it did change my body in ways that I just miss being little in a way. Anyways, my point is I definitely can relate to Adrienne height wise as well. Especially when my two sisters One is 5′9 and the other is average height of 5′5. 

Watching “The Real” basically everyday, I came across the New Years’ episode of 2015 where they all were talking about New Year’s Resolutions. Which always gets me nervous in a way because it truly makes me think about everything I am not doing and need to fix. During this episode of “The Real”, Adrienne again stood out to me. Why? Well, the second she said she doesn’t drive and Tamera wanted to teach her that truly hit me in the heart. Yes, I am 26 soon 27 on March 28th, and I still don’t drive. Everyone always kind of ends up asking me why, and you know what? It is probably a number of different reasons, but one I kind of have to admit... I am scared. I would never admit that to my family in person but all of this out in the open here I truly hope Adrienne ends up reading this blog post.  

Ok ok. One more episode of “The Real” that really got my attention. When each of the Co-Hosts had to write out what they felt others had to work on or were wondering about. Again, when Adrienne read hers I just lost it and was in tears the rest of the episode. It basically was asking why Adrienne hasn’t put out a solo album of her singing. Especially thinking back to Adrienne singing through the bands she was in. When I heard she was scared of what others would think and how she kind of said she didn’t like the sound of her own singing voice really really got to me. I lost it as soon as she said all of that because; I truly believe she has a beautiful singing voice. From what I hear, I think she will coming out of her shell soon singing on her talk show and that really inspires me to believe that anyone can overcome obstacles as long as they fight to.

For one, been taking care of my 91yr old grandma for the past few years everyday while my parents work and things have recently changed. Now, I am in the process of trying to find a job at 26 with hardly any work experience, a two year Associates Degree from College. It isn’t easy trying to find something I will enjoy or won’t be stuck doing for the rest of my life. I kind of feel lost but Adrienne and her new talk show, along with the rest of her Co-Hosts, continue to inspire and make me laugh each and everyday. I truly hope one of these days I will have a chance to meet Adrienne and try to tell her all of this in person how she has impacted me greatly. Maybe I will try to visit one of “The Real” tapings one of these days? Being in Florida, I try to get out to California once a year to work with an online magazine I started a few years back. In 2016 will be 5 years since I launched it.  

[jaclynnicole-blog]

CALIFORNIA TRIP 2014

I cannot believe it is already October! Where has 2014 gone? All year I have been thinking about planning my trip to California! After all, I hadn't been out there since Summer 2012! This past year and a half was pretty challenging trying to find some local talent to fill in the months until my next trip. It was fun meeting so many new talents. Lately, I had been connecting with many Dancers! My plan was to visit Cali in the Summer of this year but that didn't work out, and it kept getting postponed! I was trying to figure out the right time to go when I realized something. Last year, I had asked a few girls if they could help me out interviewing at a special Fundraising Event (The Beat MS Dance Walk) that would take place in California. Let me introduce you to them: Scarlette Palacios, Chloe East, and Sarina Jassy. The main reason I asked these girls was because this event involved Dance and many guests attending are in the Dance Industry. I figured it would be so much fun for them because they would recognize many of the guests and also get to Dance while all raising awareness and funds for a great cause: Multiple Sclerosis! Well, over all my Junior Reporters did a wonderful job and had so much fun! Thinking about last year and how the event was in September... I still hadn't booked my trip to Cali this year, and it was the end of August already! I knew it would be a short trip mainly just to focus on Photoshoots for my online magazine . I definitely needed to take a break from planning one of my own events out in California (Still thinking about a special Benefit for Lexi in Cali within the next two years but need a little time off). Well, I got right to it thinking about The Beat MS Dance Walk, and I booked and confirmed my trip to California! After all this, I couldn't wait to FINALLY get away! Before I could even think and plan this trip, I had to focus on what came first. I managed to get another opportunity to interview on The Blue Carpet during the "Dolphin Tale 2" Premiere in Clearwater, Florida! I decided to invite my friends to the premiere I connected with through Lexi, Alexandra and her family. Alexandra is a beautiful Dancer and aspiring Ballerina. They came all the way from Texas for the Premiere! We all had so much fun that night but didn't get back to my home until after Midnight. The next day was even crazier as I tried to squeeze in a Photoshoot with Alexandra for my magazine! So, we were out all day and didn't get back until after 8pm that evening! After we said our goodbyes, it was super late, and I still had to finish packing last minute things for my trip to California, as well as work on a few things for my online magazine!

Ok, so here is where my California Trip really starts...

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12TH 2014

It was super early Friday morning, September 12th. Yes, my flight was at seven in the morning! Which means I had to get up at five in the morning to just to make it to the airport! I was so exhausted but somehow tried to sleep on the plane. When I arrived at LAX, I got my luggage, and I waited for my friend Olivia's mom to pick me up as I was staying with her my first night in Cali. It was so great to see Olivia's mom Jane, and we caught up a bunch in the car ride back to her area! As soon as we arrived in her area, Jane took me to the one and only In N' Out because I had never been. It was pretty early but we sat and ate burger, fries, and shake at 10:30am! LOL! Great memory but the day didn't end there! We arrived at her house, settled in, and then picked Olivia up from school! I got to see one of my friends I met back at my Magazine Launch in 2011! Olivia and Moni know each other! What a small world! I got to meet a few of Olivia's friends, and Jane drove us around to show me around their area! We hit Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach (So Beautiful), and Corona Del Mar! So many different areas but so breath taking! Loved taking pictures and spending time with Olivia, her friends, and her mom! Later that night, Olivia's family and I went out to celebrate Olivia's Birthday as it had just passed. They took me to Matsu Japanese Restaurant, a place they always go to with the family (So it meant a lot). By the time we got back it was 8pm, and I was ready for bed, LOL! I was exhausted but definitely had a great/busy first day in California! Loved catching up with Olivia and her mom as well as meeting her family!

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 13TH 2014

The next morning, I got up super early again, probably around six in the morning, and Olivia's mom took me all the way up to LA to attend the very special Beat MS Dance Walk! As we were riding in the car, we talked, and I was getting even more excited as we got closer! I was super excited to be attending a very special event put on by "SYTYCD" Dancer Courtney Galiano who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis about two years ago. Courtney is an inspiration to so many, and I was so honored to have an opportunity to get a chance to meet her this year. As soon as I arrived around 8:30am, I got my Press Pass, along with my Junior Reporters and anxiously awaited them arriving. As I was waiting for my reporters, Courtney was walking towards me, so I kindly tapped on her shoulder and mentioned my name. She then told me I looked familiar. I laughed a little inside but told her we haven't met but she has met my reporters at last year's event. Once she heard that she recognized who I was immediately, thanked me for coming from Florida, and gave me a huge hug! It was great finally meeting Courtney who I have been following for awhile. My Junior Reporters started arriving: First, Scarlette, then Chloe, followed by Sarina. It was so great to finally meet these three girls as I had connected with them again through Lexi and a Dance Collab I set up last year for Lexi! Throughout the event, I enjoyed meeting many of the guests my reporters interviewed last year and meeting so many new faces! I had a chance to make conversation with so many different people! Some guests I came across at the event were Kathryn McCormick ("SYTYCD"), Serge ("SYTYCD"), Katherine Bailess ("Hit The Floor"), Corbin Bleu (Actor & Dancer/"High School Musical") Katherine McNamara (Actress/Disney),and Ricki Lake. It was super hot out that day, but my reporters managed to interview many guests, walked, and danced for MS! They had a very busy day but they all had so much fun! By 1pm the event was over, and we all started to say our goodbyes. I walked over to Courtney and thanked her for everything.. Allowing my Junior Reporters to be a part of her event two years in a row, Being such an inspiration to me and so many others, and just over all thanked her for being so sweet. I was sad to leave but it made me want to start planning my trip back to Cali next year around the same time, WHY NOT? LOL! This event truly was my over all favorite part of my trip to California this year. After the event, Sarina's mom and the girls all met at Gladstones for lunch on the Water (Malibu Beach)! What a beautiful area and the food was great! After lunch, I managed to squeeze in a Photoshoot with Dancer Sarina for my magazine. My friend and Photographer was able to make it early enough for him to shoot a few pictures for me! My Photographer and friend offered to let me stay with him while I visit this trip to Cali, since he was helping me out with a few shoots would be easiest. After the shoot, we headed back to his area, and relaxed for the rest of the night. Which was a good thing, because I was starting to feel a cold coming on.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 14TH 2014

Now, Sunday morning was a bit more relaxing but we ended up leaving the house before 9am. We headed to The Santa Monica Pier and Beach area which was quite a car ride, but was the one place I hadn't been the few times I have been out to Cali. When we arrived, we headed towards The Santa Monica 3rd Street Promanade and just listened to the street performers do what they love. Was so fun to take everything in. Around 1pm, a few of my talents arrived for their shoots for my magazine! First up, was Dancer Larsen Thompson! Very talented Dancer who I met through a good friend, and she was also part of one of the Dance Collabs for Lexi. Then came Actress Livvy Stubenrauch who you all would recognize her voice as "Young Anna" in the beginning of the "Frozen" movie! She was so adorable and so fun to talk to! Last up was Actress and Singer Jame McRae! Beautiful Singer! All the shoots kind of collided and everyone got to meet each other! All the Photoshoots and Interviews were finished around 4pm, and photographer and I headed to a place to eat over at the Promanade. We then headed back to his area and relaxed for the rest of the night.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15TH 2014

I didn't have much planned this day for anything involved with my online magazine or made plans with anyone, so I just relaxed at the house trying to fight off whatever sickness I was getting. It was definitely an easy going day, and one I really needed.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16TH 2014

Again, I actually didn't have much planned for this day at all. Just relaxed at the house and had to a chance to think a lot just about my trip and what was planned next. That evening, my photographer and friend took me out to dinner at a place called Joey's BBQ! It was so good!

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH 2014

Now, this day was the last one I had any plans. I set up four Photoshoots for my online magazine at a studio with my photographer! I relaxed half the day and looking through pictures from the previous shoot, and prepped for the evening. We left the house around 3 in the afternoon and headed to Wonderland Studios a great place with so much character! I met a few new Dancers there that I had connected with again through Lexi and were part of the group Dance Collab in Orange County that I had put together last year! We started with Scarlette Palacios (One of my Junior Reporters). Then moved onto Areana Lopez (Beautiful young Dancer). We then got started with Dancer Mia Riley (Another talented Dancer). We ended up working with Chloe East (Another one of my Junior Reporters) last as we used two different backgrounds with her to correlate her outfits! It was so fun working with all of them and by the time we finished it was after 8 in the evening. Four hours of Photoshoots and interviews! We were all exhausted! We all headed to a very late dinner at The Cheesecake Factory! Where else? LOL! By the time we left dinner and got back to the house it was after 10:30pm. We headed to bed and awaited the next day.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH 2014

I basically slept in and then got ready for the day. Nothing really planning my last full day in Cali but decided to try and go through and get a few pictures in order from the Photoshoots Wednesday. Once I finished with that, I relaxed the rest of the day/evening. I still wasn't feeling all too well, and definitely was a bit anxious flying on a plane with a really bad cold.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 19TH 2014

The next morning I was up bright and early so my photographer and friend could take to the airport to make my flight which took off at 11:45am. My flight back home was a nightmare to say the least. Having a really bad cold which later turned into something even worse, and a mixture of the air pressure just didn't mix all too well for me. My dad picked me up from the airport and we headed to a very late dinner at Catches by my home. Little did I know my Aunt, Uncle, and two of my cousins were waiting to surprise me! I definitely had no clue but still felt miserable from the plane ride, the cold and of course jet lag which usually never bothers me. I had a busy weekend with my cousins but then was able to relax the next week and settle in back home. I got better and was up to working more on my online magazine.

I have to say my overall trip to California was super memorable and met so many new faces! I have to say attending The Beat MS Dance Walk, meeting Courtney Galiano, and so many other new faces was a day I won't forget and my favorite part of my trip by far! Courtney is an inspiration to me and so many others! I definitely hope to see her again soon! I have to thank everyone who helped me out especially Olivia's mom, Jane, my Photographer and friend Ken from KGR Photography for their hospitality and helping me get around Cali! What an incredible trip! Can't wait to go back to Cali again! :)

[jaclynnicole-blog]

"DOLPHIN TALE 2" BLUE CARPET PREMIERE

Ok, so again I apologize for not keeping everyone updated on what I have been doing for the past year and a half. While I am still at home helping take care of my grandma I still manage my online magazine and try to find any opportunity I can here in Florida. Well, if you flash back to 2011, there was one very big opportunity right here in Florida that I was able to be a part of. The "Dolphin Tale" movie was filmed in Clearwater, Florida and they ended up holding a red carpet event to launch the movie here as well as in California. Calling last minute, I ended up getting a chance to interview on the red carpet during the 1st premiere of "Dolphin Tale"! Was such an incredible experience because I had never been physically at an event to do what I love. I do have Junior Reporters out in California who have helped me. It was so special to have my mom there seeing/watching what I love to do and have a passion for.

So, when I found out they were filming "Dolphin Tale 2" back here in Florida in 2013, I got super excited already thinking about the premiere! They started filming "Dolphin Tale 2" during the end of 2013 and finished filming early 2014. All through the beginning this year I couldn't stop thinking about when the 2nd movie was going to hit theatres and when the premiere would be. In the Summer, I started planning my outfit for the premiere as I didn't have a chance to put much together for the 1st premiere. I decided on the color teal since it reminded me of the "Dolphin Tale" logo color. I fell in love with a beautiful teal dress I came across online. It came from another Country, so I decided maybe I can have someone I know make a replica of it and have it custom made. We started buy going to pick out fabric at the store in June, after a few fittings, the dress was actually finished in early July. I ended up wearing it to a special conference involving Turner Syndrome in Jacksonville since the theme was "Under the Sea" I thought the color went perfect. I invited my friend Olivia, who I met through Lexi, to come and perform for the kids at the Conference which went very well! We had so much catching up before hand and during that time.

Anyways, as the month of the premiere was getting closer I needed to contact the Media/Press to inquire about getting to interview on the carpet again! I had success and soon enough I was awaiting an email with all the information for the premiere! the "Dolphin Tale 2" Blue Carpet Premiere was set for September 10th at the same venue, Ruth Eckerd Hall, in Clearwater. I decided to invite a few friends of mine as I knew they had seen the first movie and loved it! When I asked the family if they were able to come out, they weren't sure yet, so I anxiously awaited an answer. When I found out my friend Alexandra who is a beautiful Dancer from Texas was able to come out with her mom and little brother, Aaron. I got super excited! We ordered tickets for the premiere, but this time we ordered special tickets that included attending the VIP After Party with some of the Actors! When I started getting information for the premiere, I couldn't help but look forward to the month of September! That was all I thought about! Hearing my friend and her family booked their trip just confirmed everything and got even more exciting! September 9th approached, and they arrived here in Florida. It was so late, we didn't get a chance to meet but the wait was finally over. We were told all Media/Press were to meet at the venue around 4:30pm and the carpet/interviews would start around 5:15pm. Alexandra's mom picked me up, and we headed to Clearwater early enough to grab an early dinner. We decided on a place called Besa Grill, a beautiful Mexican type of restaurant that was super yummy! After we finished our dinner, we went outside to take a few pictures by their beautiful patio set and were all ready to head to the premiere! Once we arrived, we headed to get our Media/Press passes and then headed to the Blue Carpet (which was inside this time, which we were all so grateful for LOL!) to set up. I had a few jobs for my friends: Alexandra would take pictures and her little brother Aaron would hand out some of the special teal and white bracelets I made for the Actors. We took a few pictures of our own and started prepping for the interviews. Once the carpet started with the Actors arriving, it went super quick and barely had a 1 minute to talk to each one. With major news stations standing next to me, it was definitely hard to keep up but we did it! By 6:15pm everyone started heading to their seats for the premiere of "Dolphin Tale 2". Before the movie, we got to listen to one of my very good friends Caroline Kole perform/sing two songs she wrote for the movies, "Winter" and "Hope"! They are beautiful, and she did great as always! It did storm again just like during the first premiere but since the carpet was inside it worked out well and this time we didn't lose power! LOL! With many introductions and a few videos, it was time to watch "Dolphin Tale 2"! The movie finished around 9pm. It was such a beautiful and inspirational movie just like the 1st but there were so many different topics in this 2nd movie! Loved every minute of it! As we walked out, one of our local news stations were interviewing guests about what they thought of the movie, and Alexandra's little brother and their mom got interviewed! How fun! We all headed to the VIP Party where some of the Actors would be just hanging out. I was excited as I didn't get to experience this after the 1st premiere! We walked in and explored around. There were appetizers, sandwiches and dessert everywhere! My favorite place was the main table where there were two dolphins made out of ice right in the middle! We then spotted a few of the Actors, asked for a few pictures, and made conversation. By 11:30pm everyone started to part ways and we headed back to where I live, which was an hour away. We had so much fun but the night went by so fast! It definitely was a night I will never forget and was so fun being able to share it with someone else! I did set up a Photoshoot with Alexandra, since she is a Dancer, and I had my online magazine I decided to feature Alexandra in my magazine for the month of October. So, the day after the premiere, I took Alexandra and her family to The Clearwater Marine Aquarium where some of the animals are from the movie. Before we explored the aquarium I took a few photos of Alexandra outside Island Way Grill which was right next to the Aquarium because the outside was so beautiful filled with flowers and brick. After the Photoshoot, I took them a mile away for lunch right on Clearwater Beach, Frenchy's! They loved it! We then headed back to Clearwater Marine Aquarium to explore the rest of the day! We grabbed a bite to eat before leaving the area and headed back to my house. Alexandra, her mom and brother came in and we all made conversation for over an hour and a half. Being 8:30pm it was super late and we said our goodbyes. Was so fun meeting Alexandra and her family! We made so many memories that will last a lifetime! Let's pray for a "Dolphin Tale 3"! Who knows? Maybe I will be writing about attending the third premiere in a few years!

[jaclynnicole-blog]

TRIP TO NEW YORK

Ok, so I just got back from my trip to New York! I was raised in Florida but was born in New York, so most of my family lives there. I haven't been to visit since 2010, but hearing I was going back was so exciting! A family member, one of my cousins, was getting married! My parents and I booked our flights earlier in the year. I was super excited about getting away, since I hadn't been able to get out to Cali yet this year. Here is where my trip to New York gets interesting. About two months ago, I found out actress Amy Jo Johnson just so happened to plan a screening of her film "Bent " at the Long Island Film Festival sometime in September! I couldn't believe this, as my family lives on Long Island and I was planning to be in New York in September! Waiting for Amy to announce the dates of the festival, I couldn't stop thinking about it! A few weeks before our planning New York trip, and I saw the dates listed for the Long Island Film Festival! September 6th, 7th, and 8th. My heart stopped for a second, as that was the exact weekend I would be in New York on Long Island! Then, I was waiting to find out the actual date of the screening as I had a wedding to attend and family to catch up with. I found out the screening of "Bent" was scheduled for Saturday, September 7th which happened to be the day of my cousin's wedding. I kind of just gave up the idea of possibly getting to see Amy again.

SEPTEMBER 5TH 2013:

As my parents and I were waiting in airport to board the plan to New York, I just had this feeling. Not sure what it was. We arrived late in New York, but we ended up going to a diner and talking with my aunt and uncle for awhile.

SEPTEMBER 6TH 2013:

On Friday, September 6th we met up with my mom's friend Carol. She took us over to her house, and we then decided to head out and visit a few places. Carol took my parents and I to a pizzeria near her house, and then we headed to Northport where there are many shops. I hadn't been there for years, but I do remember going with my whole family and Carol back when I was ten. So many memories. We headed back to Carol's house, and she ended up making an incredible Italian dinner for us. (Pasta with Sausage and Peppers! Yummy!) We didn't have a car, so Carol took us back to our hotel and got some rest before the wedding the next day...

SEPTEMBER 7TH 2013:

Ok, I admit I did say I gave up on the idea of seeing Amy again, but in the back of my mind I was still thinking there was a way. Especially after looking at the time of the wedding which was around 3pm but reception wasn't starting until 6pm. Knowing the screening of "Bent" was around 5:15pm, I mapped out the distance of where the film festival was. It turns out the Long Island Film Festival was only about 20 minutes from where the reception was going to be. I managed to convince my dad to rent a car, just for a day, so we could possibly leave the church and head to the hotel where the film festival was at. Saturday morning was a bit crazy as I was listening on the phone as my dad was calling a few car rental places. The first place he called had no cars left. The second place we called only had one car available. The hotel shuttle took us to the car rental place and the one car had a broken driver's seat. I mean come on really? Luckily, there was one other car they rented us. When we got back to the hotel, my mom and I decided to go for a swim in the hotel pool and head back up to hotel to get ready for the wedding. We saw my baby cousins on the way up. I missed them so much! They are growing up so fast! We used the rental car to get to the wedding, which was about 40 minutes from our hotel. The wedding was beautiful and was so great to see all my cousins again! As we sent my cousin and his wife off for their first night married, we all hung around the church and caught up with family. Then, my dad and I headed towards the Hyatt where the Long Island Film Festival was going on. It was about a 20 minute drive from the church. We arrived at the film festival around 4:45pm. I contacted Amy, and I told her I managed to get over to the festival! She wrote back saying she would meet me in the lobby. Amy showed up in the lobby, and we greeted each other with big hugs. Even Amy was like "what are the chances we would be in the same area the same weekend?" We caught up, and I introduced Amy to my dad. She thanked him for being able to take me to see her again. If she only knew what I had to do to convince my dad. LOL! After a few pictures, we said our goodbyes and my dad and I headed to my cousin's wedding reception. We left the film festival around 5:15pm and made it to the reception around 5:45pm. The cocktail hour was fun with lots of appetizers and getting to know a few new faces. We headed into the reception around 7pm and enjoyed every moment of that night catching up with everyone in the family.

SEPTEMBER 8TH 2013:

The next morning, we ended up deciding to keep the rental car for another day. I happened to set up a photoshoot with a very talented dancer from New Jersey, Natalie McKela! She danced at Abby Lee's studio for a season, and she and her mom drove four hours just to meet up with me for a photoshoot for my magazine! Although I didn't have the best camera/equipment to take pictures, the photos came out great and was so fun meeting Natalie as well as her mom! After the photoshoot, my mom and I spent an hour talking with Natalie and her mom in the lobby of our hotel. I couldn't thank them enough for taking the time out to come four hours so early just for me. Means a lot to have their support of my magazine. When they headed off, we got ready to head to my aunt and uncle's for a family BBQ! When we arrived at my aunt and uncle's house, my cousins were swimming, and there was lots of fun going on just catching up and relaxing. Towards the evening, when most went home, we spotted the ice cream truck "Mr. Softy"! My mom hadn't seen this truck since she was a kid and was so fun for all of us! We sat on the steps of my aunt and uncle's house just talking. We ended up staying until around 8pm, and then headed back to our hotel for our last night in New York.

SEPTEMBER 9TH 2013:

The next morning we got up and headed to the airport as our flight was at 11am. I was kind of sad leaving New York. I really wanted to stay longer but hopefully I will be back soon.

Looking back on this trip, I can honestly say it was one of the most unexpected trips I had ever been on. Just so much went on in such a few short days. I never thought I'd see Amy again, let alone less than a year from when I first met her. My New York trip was definitely a memorable one catching up with family and friends as well as seeing Amy again and meeting Natalie and her mom.

[jaclynnicole-blog]

ONCE IN A LIFETIME

  Ok, so I haven't been the most talkative person lately on my blog, but that is going to change. Everyone has that one person who you never forgot, whether they were an old friend or someone you saw on a favorite show of yours as a child. I have to say, Twitter has connected me with so many different people. A little over a year ago, I came across actress Amy Jo Johnson on Twitter. Seeing she had a Twitter, brought back so many memories I had as a child watching her on some of my favorite shows. I followed her on Twitter, hoping that one day I could connect with Amy through my magazine. Around August 2012, Amy posted about little girl in need, Lexi Haas. Amy has never met Lexi, but Lexi's dad was her gymnastic coach as a child. Lexi has what is called Kernicterus which is partial brain damage caused by untreated Jaundice at birth. She is now in a wheelchair unable to movie or talk much without assistance. What really is hard for me is to see how much she understands what is going on around her but just can't express her feelings in the same way many do. Amy caught my attention with explaining Lexi's story, and I just knew that I wanted to make a difference in this little girl's life. But how? I wrote Amy explaining how much I wanted to help... As I came to learn more and more about Lexi, I just wanted to help her even more. As I was spreading the word about Lexi to everyone I know, I was also thinking of other ways to help her that would have an even bigger impact. In October 2012, I contacted a music producer, Andrew Lane, and shared Lexi's story with him. He was so touched that he offered to write a song for Lexi with one of his very talented artists he represents. Soon after, Andrew sent me the audio version of "Lexi's Song". I couldn't hold back tears. Once I heard the words, I never stopped crying listening to it. The 14yr old artist (now 15) Macy Kate spent many hours in the studio co-writing with Andrew and it turned out wonderful! I couldn't wait to let Lexi and her family know about a very special surprise!

Lexi happened to be in California, in October 2012, and I set up a meeting with Lexi and her parents to meet Andrew at his recording studio. Her parents had no clue what was happening but were soon told about "Lexi's Song" and that it would be on iTunes for $.99. Best part? All proceeds would go to Lexi. Macy then sang "Lexi's Song" to the family in person. There is video footage through my online magazine which will melt your heart.

Amy loved "Lexi's Song" and of course bought it to support Lexi and her family. In December 2012, I met Lexi and her parents in person, which was truly life changing for me. I won't ever forget that day.

In early March 2013, I held a benefit for Lexi in Orlando, Florida. Macy, as well as a young artist, Olivia and my brother in law, Steve came out to perform for Lexi. I never told Lexi's family that Macy was going to attend. Hearing the shreak when I told Lexi her surprise was here, I could never get out of my head. Lexi had tons of fun but was overwhelmed when everyone had to leave. The benefit was successful, and many donations came in for Lexi.

Now, Amy knows how much I have helped Lexi, but in the end my goal was to meet her in person one day to thank her for introducing me to such a precious little girl. You know when you have a dream and of course only remember bits and pieces? Well, I did dream about meeting two singers I had started talking to a few years ago, and soon after I did end up meeting them. I never really started to believe that dreams did come true, until recently. I actually had a dream about meeting Amy in person. Soon after, I found out Amy was going to be in Miami for a screening of her new film "BENT" that she wrote, directed, and starred in. I spent a whole week trying to figure out how to get down to Miami to meet her, yes I am 24 and still don't drive. How was this going to happen? I had doubted this would work out and tried everything, even looked at flights... even though I had no money to even consider that option. I then got a call from Macy's mom about involving her daughter more in my magazine, and I ended up telling her about Amy in Miami. I then heard her say, "Miami? Macy and I were planning to go down there for awhile... I will consider going and let you know." My heart stopped, even though it wasn't a for sure thing, I just had this feeling. I prayed that it would all work out somehow. A day later, I got another call from Macy's mom saying that we were going to Miami! I couldn't believe what I was hearing, and when I got off the phone I was in tears. So, on Thursday, March 21st 2013, we headed down to Miami, five hour drive, and I couldn't have been any happier! When we arrived in Miami around 6pm, I pulled myself together and waited for Amy to arrive. I was so excited to finally meet Amy after following her for many years and to thank her for introducing me to Lexi. As soon as Amy saw me, she gave me a huge hug and thanked me for coming out to meet her as well as Macy. She complimented Macy on "Lexi's Song" and was very excited to meet Macy and her mom as well. We all are connected by Lexi, and it truly was a very special moment. I interviewed Amy for my magazine and just couldn't believe what was going on. We then went in to watch "BENT", and we all truly enjoyed such a special movie with a great message about friendship. I convinced Amy to hopefully have one big reunion with Lexi and the family sometime next year! I cannot wait! As we were leaving I said goodbye to Amy, but I truly didn't want to go... We stayed over night and headed back home Friday. Amy truly has always been an inspiration of mine with everything she has gone through with her career and family and even more since I found out about Lexi through her. I can't thank her enough for blessing me with so many new friends. This all wouldn't have been possible without Macy and her mom for taking the time to drive down to Miami. I will be 25 next week (March 28th), and I can't think of a better way to have celebrated my birthday early! Come on, tell me this all just wasn't fate? Was this all meant to happen? I am still trying to take it all in...

[jaclynnicole-blog]

BEEN AWHILE...

  I can't believe I haven't written an update for all of you recently. I apologize for not keeping you all up to date. 2012 was an incredible year...

In February 2012, I went back out to California to hold my second event and fundraiser, through my online magazine, to raise money for The Turner Syndrome Society (Which most of you know is personal to me). I had an incredible time being back out in the place where I am always inspired. The fundraiser was very successful, and so many young and talented people came out to support me as well as my magazine, The Turner Syndrome Society, and just to have fun. I raised over $1,000 for The Turner Syndrome Society and was definitely overwhelmed by all of the support.

Then, in July 2012, I was able to fly back out to California to attend The Turner Syndrome Conference they have every year. It just so happened to be in California last year, and I applied for a scholarship to attend, since I had never gone. Explaining that as well as raising over $1,000 for The Turner Syndrome Society, I was one of the chosen few who was picked to attend. Staying in Anaheim was definitely a fun experience. I even fit in photoshoots for my magazine along the way! Many young talent came out to me and had a blast. Thanks to KGR Photography for taking the time to take on five photoshoots in one day. I even did a few photoshoots on my own. A very sweet artist, Kerri Medders, came out on short notice to sing for the kids at the Saturday night princess dances. As a thank you, I wanted to do something special for her, and we did an on the spot photoshoot with her to spotlight her on the cover of my magazine! On my last day in California that Summer, I have to say I remember the most. Why? Well, two of the sweetest actors came out to meet me and actually let me take photos of them for my magazine, Lindsey Morgan and Erick Valdez. You might recognize them from the ABC soap opera "General Hospital". Even though they had other commitments that weekend, they still came over an hour away to meet up with me. As soon as they arrived, we headed over to Buca De Beppo, an incredible Italian restaurant, for dinner. I called ahead of time to reserve the booth in the kitchen to show how special it meant to me they were supporting me. We also had many pictures to remember that evening. We had a very nice conversation and heart to heart talk. I felt so comfortable around them. As soon as we finished dinner, we headed back to the hotel I was staying at to take on a few photoshoots. I put Lindsey and Erick to work videoing each other, while I took the photos. I don't think I ever laughed that much in my life. I really just let go and totally forgot everything that I had on my mind. It was so special working with an incredibly talented people. As soon as I finished the photoshoots, it was time for me to leave California. After saying goodbye, I remember Lindsey asking if everything was ok. I told her I was fine, but I guess she could see I wasn't myself. As I pulled away from the hotel, I tried to hold back tears...

In November of 2012, I was so excited to get a chance to see Lindsey and Erik again. This time they came to the state I live in, Florida! Seeing them again was such a great end to the year. Sitting in the room, while they answered questions for all of the fans, I just couldn't stop thinking about the past Summer I spent with them. I brought along a few gifts for Lindsey and Erik to thank them for everything they had done for me, since I connected with them online. When both of them came over to my table, they were so sweet but that day went by so fast. I was so grateful to see them again.

Overall, 2012 was such an incredible year and a lot of people came into my life that have really impacted me...

[jaclynnicole-blog]

WHY I SUPPORT THE LIFETIME SERIES "DANCE MOMS MIAMI"

Well, as I might have mentioned in a previous blog or two, I grew up dancing. I danced because it was something I enjoyed when I was younger, but as I got older I started to see how the studio and people around me just wasn't healthy for me.

Many compare the Lifetime TV series "Dance Moms Miami" to the show "Dance Moms", and I don't believe that is right. They are two shows with different types of  dancers, instructors, moms, and just normal people. Some of the kids and teens don't get that TV isn't always what it seems, even with the word "reality".

"Dance Moms Miami" really just stood out to me. Why? Well, there are many reasons. The show focuses on Stars Dance Studio and the owners and choreographers Victor Smalley and Angel Armas and a few of many of the competition team including: Hannah Epstein, Kimmy Kopke, Lucas Triana, Sammy Small, Mia Diaz, and Jessi Kennedy. I watch mainly to see the very young and talented kids dancing and doing what they love, but under what people want to see (the "drama"), I saw something different in this show and the dancers, instructors, and moms in it. Each kid is very supportive of the other, and they are all there for the same reason to dance. Beyond what happened in each episode of the first season; I was able to see how the instructors, Victor Smalley and Angel Armas, truly care about each dancer and see the potential in each and every one of them. Teaching anything to anyone, especially kids and teens, isn't the easiest thing. Like anything, things can get frustrating after awhile, but patience is definitely important. Victor and Angel teach these dancers not only dance moves, but morals and important messages that will stick with them for the rest of their lives. An episode really stood out to me where the instructors had the dancers sit down and talk about their insecurities (as one of the dances had a theme about overcoming their insecurities). To me, that was a very special moment that I haven't seen truly addressed on TV in the right way until this show. Each dancer brings something different to the show, and I really loved that. Hannah, a very strong willed girl who doesn't let anyone stop her from dancing and doing what she loves no matter what they say and brings artistry to every step she takes in dance and her performances. She is such an inspiration to me. Kimmy is very focused and is an amazing technical dancer. Lucas is the boy of the group and has the biggest personality that will make anyone laugh and smile while he shows off his many tricks and dance moves. Sammy is another dancer who brings lots of personality to the stage while showing off her awesome dance skills. Mia came on the show towards the end of the first season, but we all know we will be seeing more of her soon. Mia, is one dancer who takes on any challenge with grace and really shows how much she loves performing and entertaining on stage as do all of the dancers at Stars Dance Studio. Jessi is the oldest of the group, and who many look up to. Jessi brings leadership, support, as well as her years of dance experience to all of the dancers on the team and at Stars Dance Studio. Overall, I can gather all of this just from watching "Dance Moms Miami".

All the dancers and instructors love talking with their fans and making them smile. Each and everyday I see all of them replying and talking to their fans online and answer questions as well as giving advice about dance.

There are things that people take out of context without even meeting or knowing a person, so when people say things about TV shows, it gets under my skin big time. I decided to write this blog and explain what I truly see beyond what is happening on the episodes/show.

[jaclynnicole-blog]

A BLAST FROM THE PAST: CHILDHOOD MEMORIES & LESSONS

Just turned 24yrs old on March 28th (2012), and I was looking back at my childhood and the TV shows and music that I listened to and grew up watching...

Do you ever want to go back in time and just relive those moments?

Well, TV and movies today have changed a lot and not really for the better.

I feel like the shows back in the 90's that I grew up watching, actually made you feel like you grew up with the family ("Full House", "7th Heaven", "Boy Meets World", and another amazing show "S Club 7" series) and there were lessons to be learned in every episode and were awesome to watch with anyone and everyone no matter what age. It was something that really can't be done today with all the reality on TV and the comedy shows that are really blown out of proportion now.

"Full House" was one show I was addicted to even though I was born literally when the show first aired. From baby "Michelle" growing up learning to tie shoes and learning how to ride a bike to sisters bickering and growing up through middle school and high school challenges (prom) and teen issues all of it was involved and brought up in the show very well and proper for anyone to watch. Even the adults had gone through a lot that many families go through like being a single parent, and also even going back to high school as "Uncle Jessie" did in an episode to show that never giving up is something that is truly important no matter what. Starting from the very little things like learning to forgive someone to the importance of education and always remembering that family is definitely an important because they will always have your back; "Full House" was one TV series that made everyone want "The Tanner Family" to be their neighbors.

"Boy Meets World" was another great show that definitely had a lot of life lessons taught in each and every episode from the importance of education and learning, to teen boy and girl challenges and issues, as well as learning independence and how to cope with moving away and going off to college after gradation. One of the characters that stood out the most in this show was the very wise "Mr. Finney" who was a mentor to anyone he came across teaching them life lessons in a unique and interesting way. The show even brought up the infamous tests that students take to get ready to go off to college. It had lots of family moments that were enjoyed by all ages. It was a unique show that definitely had many lessons to even count them all.

"7th Heaven" made a huge mark on many for years as it is the longest running series television show to date. Another large family living under one roof who the world saw grow up before their eyes. Family from kids to teens to young adults the show definitely went through many situations that anyone can relate to. The show also brought it up in a way that anyone could understand and it also be a family show to where families could watch it together and learn together how to work out situations that come about that aren't really meant to be handled alone.

The "S Club 7" TV series was definitely different from many shows out there. It was based off a band that came together and was discovering themselves as well as music and their interests individually. S Club 7 band members included: Jo O'Meara, Rachel Stevens, Tina Barrett, Hannah Spearritt, Bradley McIntosh, Jon Lee, and Paul Cattermole. The show's first season taped in Miami, Florida but made its way to Hollywood, LA California where the 7 English band members were together getting discovered through their determination, hard work, and passion for singing. Starting out literally not knowing anything about the business (in the show) to making to to the very top in California and ending up in Spain showed what success the band had just by sticking together and their determination to succeed in what they love doing and all have in common. Each episode had the band performing at least one of their songs they recorded, and it gave the audience a very special performance to look forward to. The band taught many through lyrics like in the most memorable song "Bring It All Back" which the chorus caught onto me very quickly...

"Don't stop, never give up, hold your head high and reach the top. Let the world see what you have got. Bring it all back to you."

"Hold on to what you try to be, your individuality. When the world is on your shoulders, just smile and let it go."

"When people try to put you down, just walk away, don't turn around. You only have to answer to yourself."

Each song had encouraging and inspiring words that definitely stood out in my mind. The show was all about the band never giving up on their dreams and did what they had to (like getting jobs no matter what it was), to keep going for their dreams. Most importantly, sticking together through the rough times and eventually working it out and getting through what felt like rock bottom.

You don't see many shows now a days with music involved. Newer shows like "Glee" and "Smash" are great for young adults but not for kids and teens and really have they taught anything to the audiences? Music is definitely something that is a positive way to handle a situation when feeling down, upset, angry, etc... There are so many positive ways to handle situations that I'm sure every single one of you reading this and other individuals have gone through, and many of the shows I grew up watching like "Full House", "7th Heaven", "Boy Meets World", and the "S Club 7" TV series have taught to a huge audience and people around the world. The shows and movies today are so different and think have really messed with everyone's head and have gotten to the point where parental control and monitoring the TV shows the kids watch now is necessary.