Hall's mark

"I leave and heave a sigh and say goodbye..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 14:00:00 +0000

"For everything you've done, you know I'm bound... I'm bound to thank you for it."
~taken from Natalie Merchant's "Kind & Generous"

Today is my final day at the New Haven Register. After about 15 months with this newspaper company, I will be moving on to a new position at my college.

It's a bittersweet transition for me. On the one hand, I am thrilled to be returning to my alma mater to work alongside some of the people who inspired me for four years. It should be a wonderful experience and I will undoubtedly learn a great deal from them.

On the other hand, I have to leave some of the coolest, most dedicated and hardworking people with whom I've ever come in contact. The editors, reporters and staffers at the New Haven Register welcomed me with open arms last June. Not gonna lie - I was nervous about finding my niche.

Fortunately for me, these people are great. In an age where newspapers are struggling to keep up with changing times, the people at the Reg never struggled to keep it real. I meet a wide variety of personalities and interacted with some pretty awesome people. I've been very lucky.

I truly want to thank everyone at the Register who threw a kind word or smile my way, gave me support when I really needed it (especially in January), offered me friendship, made me laugh, gave me a chance... you have no idea what that all means to me.

Please stay in touch and know I'll never forget my time at the New Haven Register. The good, the bad and the ugly - I'll hang on to it all.

Thanks again, and rock on.

*blog title taken from The Sound of Music's "So Long, Farewell"*

"Even at my worst, I'm best with you..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Thu, 16 Aug 2007 19:39:00 +0000

The friends I mentioned last post were married this past weekend. I really had told myself that I wasn't going to cry, but man did I! It was so beautiful, they looked so happy and I was overjoyed to be with them at their joyous occasion. It was also humbling to have members of both familes come to me and say a simple "thank you" for introducing them five years ago. Trust me - it was my pleasure! Love you guys! Congrats to Mr. & Mrs. Bryan D'Onofrio!!

This weekend, I am seeing RENT for the 3rd time on Broadway (I've also seen it another time when the touring company came to the Shubert). Now is an extremely exciting time to see the show because two of the original cast members (Anthony Rapp and Adam Pascal) have rejoined the cast for a limited engagement. I am beyond thrilled! I'm going with my friend Ellen (hi there!), and we will be singing, dancing and crying the whole show. We went to see the movie together when it came out in 2005, and we cried then, too. I guess you can saw we are true RENT-heads.

Stay cool, enjoy the sun and take in the last summer rays while you can!

*blog title taken from The Rembrandt's "I'll Be There for You"*

"I've got to get a move on with my life; it's time to be a big girl now..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Sun, 15 Jul 2007 23:45:00 +0000

Two days ago, I mailed two letters which, in a way, blow my mind - R.S.V.P.s to my 5-year high school reunion and to the wedding of two of my oldest friends. It really doesn't seem all that long ago when I graduated from high school and (that same year) introduced the two people who are now engaged.

Let's backtrack a bit. Anyone who has read my blog before knows that I maintain strong ties to my high school. I was very involved while there - Student Council, newspaper, drama club, drama productions, teacher's aide, office aide, intramurals... you get the picture. I even worked as the summer school secretary for three years after graduation.

I cannot believe that it was five years ago I stood before the faculty, my class & their families and friends to speak of our memories and the future (for those of you playing the home game, I was valedictorian). So many things have changed in my life these past five years. I've graduated from college, lost people very dear to me, entered the work force, moved out on my own, gained new friends (and misplaced a few old ones)... but I'm psyched to head back in time and see people from my past, some of whom I haven't seen since graduation day.

My senior year of high school was notable for many achievements, events and memories. One of the brightest spots looking back, however, would have to be when I introduced Jane and Bryan at the Homecoming dance.

I've known Jane since first grade and Bryan since freshman year of high school. Jane and I went to elementary school together and while we went to different high schools (and later colleges), we stuck together and saw each other fairly often in the h.s. days. Many times in school, Bryan was my sarcastic partner in crime during English class or in play practice. The two of us together almost always spelled trouble.

I asked two of my friends, Jane and our other gal pal Sienna, to come to one of my school dances in January '02. Bryan also attended and I introduced hom to Jane. I watched as they talked and danced throughout the evening and shortly thereafter I accompanied them on their first date (seeing Collateral Damage). I was thrilled to see them stick together when college time rolled around.

Five years later, my friends are getting married. At their wedding shower a few weeks ago, Bryan's parents jokingly introduced me as "the one who caused all of this." It is a title that I'm glad to have.

The wedding is in August, the reunion in September. It's going to be an exciting few months!

Five year reunions and friends getting married - time sure flies when you're becoming an adult...

*blog title taken from Fergie's "Big Girls Don't Cry"*

"If you want something new, maybe I got what you need..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 18:40:00 +0000

I will be the first to admit that I was a huge American Idol fan. While I didn't see any of this past season (but good luck to you anyway, Jordin), I was an avid fan of the first 5 seasons. And yes, I cried when Kelly won season one.

I am also a baseball fan. Now this is not to say that I know every player on every team's name, number, position, stats, etc. I'm lucky if I know most of the Yankees, a few Mets and some other players' names from across the leagues. Regardless of my sports knowledge, I appreciate the game and enjoy watching it both live and on TV.

These statements being made, I felt that I should share two events that will highlight both of my aforementioned interests.

The New Haven County Cutters will be featuring two former American Idol contestants in upcoming game events. On June 29, Ace Young (season 5) will perform prior to the game. Then on July 19, William Hung (season 3) will dazzle audience members with his vocal stylings (don't worry - this is also a Thirsty Thursday promo day, which will probably be necessary after his performance).

If you want to check out these or any of the other awesome events the Cutters have in store this season, head over to their promotions page.

I just may need to make an appearance at Ace's gameday. Hope to see you there!

*blog title taken from "Alright" by Elliott Yamin (American Idol season 5, 3rd place)*

"How will I ever decide what I truly want to be? Doctor, lawyer, no - that's not me..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Thu, 24 May 2007 22:03:00 +0000

On Friday, May 25 (which is tomorrow for me as I'm writing Thursday night) I will not be at work. No, I'm not going on vacation. No, I'm not covering a story. I was asked to speak at my high school's first ever Career Day.

Now first off I should let it be known that I love my high school. In fact, I loved it so much that I worked there for 3 summers after I graduated. The friends I made there, both other students as well as faculty and staff member, are still very dear to me and I always try to get back there when I can.

Needless to say when I was asked to speak to 9th, 10th and 11th graders, I was thrilled. Look at me, 22 years old, going to speak at Career Day with around 30 other alums from all different years and backgrounds. Seems surreal to me.

I know that I wouldn't be where I am today (or who I am today) without the good folks at Marty Lu in Maspeth, Queens, NY. Tomorrow should be a blast.

I encourage all of you to give a little something of yourself back to the folks who got you where you are today, whether that means helping out at your high school or college, sending an old friend a letter to say hi and catch... whatever it is you want to do. After all, there is no future without our past.

Talk to you soon! And Happy Memorial Day!

*blog title taken from my college friends' band Camera Shy Paparazzi's song "Fake Diaries"*

"There'll be spectacle, there'll be fantasy, there'll be daring do and stuff like you would never see..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Wed, 02 May 2007 17:29:00 +0000

In keeping with my latest postings promoting community and local theater, there are two events at Southern Connecticut State University that are well worth mentioning.

Looking for something to do in the next few days? Check out SCSU's night of student-directed one act plays presented by the Theatre Department and the Crescent Players (those are the promo photos by
JMPixley you see throughout this blog entry). You can find the one-acts tonight thru Saturday - May 2 - 5 at 8 p.m. and May 4 & 5 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for non-students ($5 with your SCSU I.D.) and will be sold at the door. If you have any questions, call SCSU's theatre department at (203) 392-6100. For more info on the show and to get directions, check out Southern's event page. This evening of theater is a great way to support area students and to see what I've been assured is a quality event.

Less than two weeks from today, SCSU's Crescent Players, Student Government Association, Women's Rugby Team, SCSU Dance Team and other campus organizations are banning together to raise money for one of Southern's own. Student Cristina Cortese was diagnosed with stage four Thymic Carcinoma in January of this year. This rare cancer affects (among other things) her body's white blood cell production. Any battle with cancer is difficult due to its physical, emotional and financial toll, so SCSU wanted to help.

There will be a Variety Show on May 15 in the John Lyman Center for the Performing Arts from 7 -10 p.m. to help raise money for Cristina and her family. Tickets will be $5 and can either be purchased in advance at the student center from May 7 - 11, or at the door.

For more on this event, contact Elyse Williams. Students signed up for Facebook can look for the “Courage for Cristina” group.

I'll be at the Friday night one-acts and will try my very best to attend the other event. I hope you will, too!

As always, if you know of any upcoming community theater events, feel free to drop me a line or comment on this blog.

*blog title taken from "Hey, A Movie!" from The Great Muppet Caper*

"Curtain up! Light the lights!"

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Mon, 23 Apr 2007 17:32:00 +0000

I love theater. This is a love that has evolved in me since early childhood from a passion for film and Broadway (thanks in great part to my mother, who shares this love).

When I was in high school, I was a proud member of the drama club and participated in many theater productions as a techie - behind-the-scenes, stage managing, directing, even dabbling with some choreography. One of my best friends from high school took his love of drama to another level.

Erik Neilssen (also MLHS '02) is far more talented than I could ever hope to be. You see, Erik does it all - acts, writes, directs, produces... you name it, he can do it. Acting from a very early age, he has been in a myriad of shows and proven himself as a well-rounded thespian. Several years ago he had a vision for a community theater program which he has since made into a reality. I had the pleasure of seeing N.E.A.T. Productions' latest production this past weekend in NYC.

The group put on a double-feature radio show with H. G. Wells' The Time Machine and Jules Verne's Journey to the Center of the Earth. It was a joy to see high school and college-aged actors combining their voice talents, foley artist & musical skills, and that is the beauty of community theater. The show was great, but even better was knowing that these young theater lovers are able to practice the craft with their peers before a live audience. I think this is a wonderful opportunity for these young people to grow, both as thespians and as people.

I urge everyone to support school and community theater programs. I will be posting blog entries with information on upcoming productions as I hear about them. If you know of any upcoming local shows or auditions, please email me or leave a comment on this blog entry.

Since life is already filled with so much drama, why not enjoy some that is scripted?

*Blog title taken from "Everything's Coming Up Roses" from the musical Gypsy*

“To being an us for once instead of a them – la vie boheme!”

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 04:28:00 +0000

“Oh, I’m not… I’m just here to… I don’t have… I’m here with… Mark! Mark! I’m Mark! Well, this is quite an operation…”

When Mark Cohen sings these words in the song “Life Support” from the Broadway musical Rent, the audience gets a sense that at that point in the show the aspiring filmmaker is almost painfully unsure of himself (fellow Rent-heads know that he grows out of this as the show goes on). That initial insecurity, however, is not something I felt when listening to the man who originated that role – Anthony Rapp.

Rapp spoke candidly at Southern Connecticut State University Wednesday night for a pretty packed house in the Michael J. Adanti Student Center Theatre. The actor/singer/writer has been touring the country over the past year and a half to promote his book “Without You: A Memoir of Love, Loss and the Musical Rent” as well as the Broadway production and film adaptation. More than all that, though, he painted a moving scene of what it has been like to be a part of something that is almost as tragic as it is successful.

Back in 1994, Rapp was working at a Starbucks while trying to find work. He met with a new agent who immediately gave him a breakdown for an audition. It was for a workshop performance of a new rock opera called Rent. A skeptical Rapp auditioned with R.E.M.’s “Losing My Religion,” and although he accidentally skipped a verse in the song, he was asked to come back. He went on to receive the role of Mark Cohen for that workshop and would maintain the role for the Off-Broadway and Broadway productions of the musical, reprising it once again for the film adaptation.

Throughout the show’s evolution, Rapp befriended the show’s creator Jonathan Larson. The power of Larson’s lyrics resonated with the cast members and they poured themselves into Rent. On January 25, 1996, the evening of the final Off-Broadway dress rehearsal and the night before the show’s first preview, 35-year old Larson died of an aortic aneurism. It took everyone by surprise, and the cast (along with Larson’s family and friends) knew that they needed to make the show a great success to do justice to his creative genius.

Rent went on to win Tony awards and a Pulitzer Prize, and continues to enjoy great success as it nears the opening of its 11th season on Broadway. Rapp said that it is currently number seven in the top ten longest running Broadway musicals of all time. But of course, the show’s success comes at a cost.

“All of the elation of the show was tempered by the bittersweet knowledge that [Larson] wasn’t there,” Rapp told the SCSU audience.

He said that all of the original cast members (which include Daphne Rubin Vega, Adam Pascal, Idina Menzel, Taye Diggs, Jesse L. Martin and Wilson Jermaine Heredia) know that they are forever changed as a result of their roles in the show.

“It’s continued to be this gift in all of our lives,” Rapp said. “The success of Rent has really validated everything I believe in.”

When asked how it feels to be a part of such a major piece of theater history and contemporary pop culture, Rapp answered humbly. “It’s an honor.”

*blog title taken from Rent's "La Vie Boheme"*

"How do you document real life when real life's getting more like fiction each day?"

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Wed, 11 Apr 2007 14:05:00 +0000

I'd like to start off here by thanking all of you wonderful people who reached out to me after my last post (which, I know, was two months ago now; I'll be blogging regularly from here on out). It really touched my heart to receive such kind words and thoughtful gestures from those who read my posting. Thank you so very much. You have no idea what that means to me.

Picking myself up, dusting myself off, starting to push ahead - that's where I'm at right now. One of the events that will help me do this is something I want to tell all of you about.

At 7:30 p.m. this evening, Anthony Rapp will be speaking at Southern Connecticut State University's Adanti Center Theater. For those of you unfamiliar with his name, Rapp was one of the original cast members of the Pulitzer Prize & Tony award-winning musical "Rent." He has also appeared on stage in other productions (including "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown"), acted in films (including "Dazed and Confused," "Six Degrees of Separation" and "A Beautiful Mind") and released a studio album in 2000 called "Look Around."

The appearance at SCSU is part of his book tour for 2006's "Without You: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and the Musical Rent." Admission is free, and I encourage everyone to head there tonight. Even if you aren't a Rent-head, Rapp's talk has something to offer anyone who has ever been torn between great joy and greater sadness, or who has struggled to come to terms with who they are.

I plan to attend and will post reflections on the event later this evening. Hope to see you there!

*blog title taken from the title track of the "Rent" soundtrack, written by Jonathan Larson*

"In my life, I love you more..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 00:30:00 +0000

So much has happened to me since I last posted in early January that I scarcely know where to begin. I'm still not terribly chatty, the reason for which I will explain shortly, but I didn't want people out in cyberland to think that I forgot about you or my blog.

On January 28, 2007, my father's almost three-year battle with brain cancer ended. He was 51 years old, and had so much more life to live. Thankfully I was home in NYC that weekend, and was even with my mom in dad's room when it happened. I take some comfort in knowing that all of our family had been with him the day before and that he is no longer suffering, but those are indeed small comforts to be had.

I don't want to be a total downer and apologize if I've already dampened your spirits. Honestly, that is not my intention. I'll keep further details for my own personal writing, but I wanted to use this space to ask all of you for a huge favor.

Celebrate life.

If there is anything that I have learned over the last three years, it's that people spend so much time worrying about trivial things such as money, power, the opinions of other people and their own selfish desires that they forget to celebrate the life they've been given. Here are my suggestions for people to start celebrating life. (Please add to this list as you choose, and feel free to email me or add a comment with your own suggestions.)

Tell the ones you love how you feel today. Don't put it off because you think they already know - it's always nice to hear it again.

Do something you've always wanted to do. This could be anything from travelling to a dream location or calling an old flame to learning how to sculpt or reading War and Peace. Stop thinking about it and do it.

Write a letter to someone. No, not an email or a text message. I'm talking about actually pulling out a piece of paper and a pen, handwriting some sentiment and using the good old U.S. Postal Service to deliver heartfelt words to the person of your choice (in case it's been a while, stamps are 39 cents these days). You'll be surprised at what a release this can be for you, and what a joy it will be for the receiver.

Never forget who you are. Once a month, sit down with yourself and think about your life. Are you doing what you wanted to do? Are you living where you wanted to live? Are you the person you always hoped you'd be? If not, find a way to get there, or at least to get a little closer to your destination.

Life is short, people. Make sure you live it.

That's all for now. I'll check back in soon.

Thomas Hall, 1955-2007
"Though I know I'll never lose affection
for people and things, that went before,
I know I'll often stop and think about them;
In my life, I love you more."
~The Beatles, "In My Life"

*blog title taken from The Beatles "In My Life"*

"And as our lives change, come whatever..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 04:11:00 +0000

Many apologies for being away so long, good friends. It's been a bit of a rough time for me over here, and I want to start by thanking everyone in my life - family, friends, coworkers, etc. - for being so supportive and helping me along. I'm extremely lucky to have such caring people in my life, and I hope all of you reading have a similar support system in your lives. If you can, please send some good vibes to my family in NYC - they could use all the positive energy they can get these days.

So happy belated holidays to you all and happy new year. Has 2007 started off well for you thus far? I've never been one to make a new year's resolution, but some of my friends made great ones. I've heard people wanting to better themselves this year either by improving their health or by seeking professional betterment. Kudos to those seeking a better tomorrow!

On a completely unrelated note, I'm getting back in touch with people I first befriended in my first few years of life, i.e. folks I first met in first grade and kindergarten. Crazy stuff, I tell ya, but fabulous. These are people who knew me for my early formative years, we went to different high schools and colleges and are now reconnecting and discovering each other again after a few years apart. It's kind of like a reunion, and is actually pretty great. Quality stuff, and very therapeutic to be in touch with people who knew you when life was still innocent and unjaded.

Have you stayed in touch with friends from your younger years? Did you reconnect with pals after years apart? Share your tales!! I'd love to hear them!

*blog title taken from Vitamin C's "Graduation (Friends Forever)"*

"Love me two times, I'm goin' away..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Fri, 08 Dec 2006 15:54:00 +0000

Today marks two major anniversaries in world history and pop culture.

Had he not died in 1971, singer Jim Morrison of The Doors would have been 63 today.

And it was 26 years ago today that former Beatle and peace proponent John Lennon was shot and killed by a crazed fan in NYC.

I'm sure there are many more important things that happened this day in history. But for me, these 2 stand out as events that changed the course of the world (granted, both in their own way).

I urge everyone to take a moment today to listen to some tunes from The Doors, The Beatles and/or John Lennon and reflect on the world around you. Think about life, love, peace and forgiveness. Maybe if we all can spend a few minutes today doing this, the positive vibes will reach the world.

And yes, I know - I, like John, am a dreamer. But I'm not not the only one...

*blog title taken from The Doors' "Love Me Two Times"*

"Time is much too short to be living somebody else's life..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Fri, 01 Dec 2006 17:53:00 +0000

Today is World AIDS Day, and I just wanted to take a minute with you to show my support of everyone around the world dealing with this disease.

Please visit the site I've linked to below for facts and information about HIV and AIDS.

And remember that times like these we want to remember "people living with..., not dying from, disease" (from Rent's "La Vie Boheme"). Show your support for this and countless other worthy causes.

We're one world, and we are all in this together.

*blog title taken from Des'ree's "I Ain't Movin'"*

"They settle down as man and wife to solve the riddle called married life..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Mon, 13 Nov 2006 20:03:00 +0000

This past summer, two people I went to high school with were married. Then within the last few months, two of my friends got engaged. There are low-to-mid twenty-somethings getting engaged and wed all around me, and it's got me thinking - am I missing something?

I thought the trend over the last twenty years or so was to get married a bit later in life (30s, at least). That's what I had seen, and I was fine with that. I'm not saying that people who are making the earlier decision are making a bad choice. I'm sure for some people it is perfectly timed, and other people will realize that no amount of time or waiting would make their union work. I just think that there is something I'm not seeing.

Growing up, I remember hearing girls talk about the perfect wedding and how many kids they wanted. Some people even had baby names picked out and ready to go. I never thought about those things. From a fairly young age, I was focused on making a life for myself. I wanted a successful career (and to me, success does not mean $$$) and to establish myself as an independent person before even considering joining up with someone else.

Does this make me a bad person? Should I not want to make a life for myself rather than establishing a life with someone else? I'm not saying I never want to get married, but I think that it's more important to be your own person and understand your life direction first. Otherwise, how can you hope to be successful as a unit?

Help me out here, folks. What are your thoughts on the younger marraige issue? What do you see as a good age range for marraige? Does age even matter, or is it more about the people? And please tell me, am I wrong?

*blog title taken from Cole Porter's "It's De-Lovely"*

"525,600 minutes, how do you measure, measure a year?"

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Fri, 03 Nov 2006 18:57:00 +0000

Another year, a higher number, but what really has changed?

Yesterday was my birthday and while I don't claim to be a fountain of knowledge at 22, I wanted to take a moment to share how my life has changed over the last year.

This time last year I had finished midterms in my second-to-last college semester and was pretty carefree. I hadn't started to freak out about finding a job yet because I still had a full semester ahead of me. Life with my roommate was pretty fun. My sister just had a baby boy. All of my commitments made visiting NY more difficult than in previous semesters. My part-time job was going well (QU Learning Center was my life for three years), the campus newspaper was doing really well (QUChronicle.com) and my personal life held its usual amount of soap opera-esque drama. It was business as usual for a student with senioritis - procrastinating, hanging out with friends, and wanting to both get out quickly and stay in college forever.

Fast forward to the present. I live in my own apartment. My nephew just celebrated his first birthday. I have a job here at the wonderful New Haven Register and with the full-time work came full-time bills and responsibilities. My personal life has less drama than it did last year, but with me it's always an adventure. And I cannot begin to tell you, as bizarre as it sounds, how much I miss midterms. Well, maybe not the exams exactly, moreso the college life. I didn't know how good I had it.

I've always been a fairly responsible person but now I think I take life more seriously. I pay bills as soon as they come in to avoid late fees; I try not to use my credit card unless I have the money to pay it off; I don't spend on myself very often with the exception of food, which I even try to budget accordingly. I try to get home as often as I can to spend more time with my family, but work and life don't allow for as much of that as I'd like. I don't go out like I once did (although I was never a huge party animal, I had my fun). Many of my friends are either still in school or also doing the real world thing so it's tough to coordinate schedules.

Even though aspects of my life may have seemed easier last year, I'm glad for what the year brought me. As long as I continue to learn about life, I think I'm moving in the right direction.

How has your life changed in the past year? Sharing is caring, folks, so comment away!

*Blog title taken from the Broadway musical Rent's "Seasons of Love"*

"When you get to my door, tell them Boris sent you..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Tue, 31 Oct 2006 00:16:00 +0000

Who else loves Halloween? I mean, how can you not enjoy watching adorable children dressed up as their heroes or favorite characters?

I have wonderful memories of trick-or-treating as a child. Growing up in Queens, NY, Halloween was an adventure. Apartment buildings were great for kids because in just one "house" you could knock on dozens of doors. My sister and I joined our friends from school to traverse the area. When we were very young, the two of us sometimes had matching costumes (my mother has photos from our year as a pair of dice). It was fun, and I always loved being able to walk around with the "big kids." Another favorite part of the day was that when I was younger, my father would dress up and surprise us when we came to our apartment. He was definitely a crowd favorite, and made a wonderful vampire.

During high school I spent my Halloweens helping my mother and grandmother hand out candy. There were some costume parties but didn't go door-to-door. Then at college I attended the parties held by a community service group for New Haven kids, reporting on the events for the campus newspaper.

I never lost my love for this day, and still find it to be magical. I wish everyone a safe and happy Halloween - TRICK OR TREAT!

*blog title taken from Bobby Pickett & the Crypt-Kickers' "Monster Mash"*

"I can understand how you'd be so confused. I don't envy you..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Thu, 05 Oct 2006 20:58:00 +0000

I've decided that even when life is getting me down, when things are bad and I just want to tear out my hair or curl up and cry, I still wouldn't trade my life for anyone else's.

There have been a number of difficult and trying times in my life that have brought me near my breaking point. Some of these times I was lower than I'd ever been, and didn't know how I would make it through.

But looking back at those times, I see that they have made me grow as a person. Heartache, pain, stress, death... I've faced these things and more, and came out a stronger individual. Sure, I wish some of these things never happened. How wonderful life would be if nothing devastating ever happened.

And how pointless, as well. Without the bad, how can we appreciate the good? We wouldn't even know what was good without points of reference.

My family is facing tough times ahead. I'm doing my best to hold it all together and have a wonderful support system of people who care about me. Times like these remind me of my favorite poem, which I will share with you at the end of this entry.

Feel free to comment if you've experienced tough times which made you a stronger person in the end. I think it's important to share these situations so we know that we aren't alone.

The Rainy Day
by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

The day is cold, and dark, and dreary;
It rains, and the wind is never weary;
The vine still clings to the moldering wall,
But at every gust the dead leaves fall,
And the day is dark and dreary.

My life is cold, and dark, and dreary;
It rains, and the wind is never weary;
My thoughts still cling to the moldering Past,
But the hopes of youth fall thick in the blast
And the days are dark and dreary.

Be still, sad heart! and cease repining;
Behind the clouds is the sun still shining;
Thy fate is the common fate of all,
Into each life some rain must fall,
Some days must be dark and dreary.

*blog title taken from Meredith Brooks' "B!#(h"*

"Never wear your destiny outside your smile..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Thu, 28 Sep 2006 01:08:00 +0000

There are so many things that I have learned over the last four years that no institution taught me.

People are an invaluable resource, and we rarely take the time out to express how much we care. It's not that we are being selfish or don't appreciate the people who get us through each day. We have just become too busy to share these feelings on a regular basis.

I'm very fortunate to have people in my life from various stages of my development. There are people I talk to who I have known for anywhere from a few months to nearly 22 years. And regardless of how long I have known each person, they are all precious to me in their own ways.

I've been thinking about this a great deal lately, and wanted to share my appreciation with the blogging community. My family is going through some tough times right now with health concerns and other issues. Without the network of people I have the extreme pleasure to be a part of, I could never make it through.

Take some time today, and everyday, to share your feelings with people who matter to you. If not for these wonderful beings, we couldn't achieve our potential and would never be in control of our own destiny.

*blog title taken from Des'ree's "Strong Enough"*

"Cuz I feel so mad, I feel so angry..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Sat, 23 Sep 2006 20:40:00 +0000

I just returned from a performance of Twelve Angry Men at the Shubert Theater in New Haven. WOW.

I've loved this drama for years. Theater is something that I have enjoyed for as long as I can remember. When I was in high school my English class acted out "Twelve Angry Men" rather than just reading it (I was Juror Five most of the time, but I believe I was fortunate enough to spend a day or two as Eight).

I've seen (and loved) the 1957 movie version of the play, and it has always held a special place in my heart. Today, seeing it on stage for the first time, I love it even more.

These actors are brilliant, led of course by Richard Thomas and George Wendt. Randle Mell was brilliant as Juror Three, and all of the other actors are to be commended. They found a way to make me laugh, feel compassion, grow angry and be genuinely moved in less than two hours, something that most films cannot do.

I think the entire audience was moved by this compelling drama which deals with the nature of racism and justice in modern times. Even though it was set in 1954, the same ethics and principles hold true today - if we can erase prejudice from our hearts, we can seek truth from the world.

Bravo!

*Blog title taken from Boxcar Racer's "I Feel So"*

"I'm holding out for a hero..."

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Tue, 12 Sep 2006 23:38:00 +0000

I saw my friend Ray today for the first time in 10 months.

No, I'm not just a terrible friend who neglected him for almost a year. Ray (or should I say, Lance Corporal Raymond Mattson) is a proud member of the U.S. Marine Corps, and has been stationed in Okinawa, Japan. I last saw him in November '05, and have been corresponding with him via telephone, AIM and MySpace while he is away.

Ray and I met my junior year of high school. I was a teacher's aide in his Spanish class, and then student director of a musical which he landed a leading role. We grew close, and have been close ever since.

I'll be the first to admit that I didn't want Ray to join the Corps. I was worried that he would be sent to war (which he still may) and get hurt - or worse. I hated the thought of him being so far away, and didn't want to have to figure out the 13-hour time difference every time I wanted to call him. Selfish? Yes, but I'm sure you can sympathize.

I'll also say that I have strong opinions about the ongoing war and political policies currently in place. I won't share these, however, for the sake of my journalistic integrity and for Ray, but they are still in my heart.

With all of the aforementioned info, you can imagine how excited I was to see him today, if only for three hours. I drove to NYC last night after work and had to return to CT today for a night shift at the Register, but the journey was well worth it.

Even though I didn't want him to be a Marine, I'm still so proud of Ray and all that he has accomplished. I can see a definite change in him, but deep down he's still the guy I know and love.

So to Ray, and all of the other men and women who are serving this great country of ours, I say a profound and heartfelt, "Thank you." Every citizen owes you all a debt of gratitude, and I will gladly be among the first to pay mine.

--title taken from the lyrics to Bonnie Tyler's "Holding Out for a Hero"--

The day the towers fell...

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Mon, 11 Sep 2006 13:00:00 +0000

I was in third period PreCalculus at my high school in Queens, New York. From our classroom windows we could see the Manhattan skyline, but us "city kids" took this for granted. We never even gave it a second glance on a normal day. But this was no ordinary day.

The dean of students came into our classroom without knocking, interrupting our lecture. She whispered something into the teacher's ear that caused her to run out of the room. That's when the dean told us.

The second plane was about to hit as she said the World Trade Center was under attack. She didn't know much more at that point but urged us to remain calm.

An announcement was made that we would still switch classes until further notice to try and maintain some sense of normalcy.

Televisions were on in every classroom that was so equipped, and radios and TVs were brought into the cafeteria. Role boundaries were broken as teachers and students comforted each other. Nothing we learned that day came from textbooks.

The glorious NYC skyline was quickly being replaced by a dark cloud. In Government class, the teacher said she needed some air. She went out onto the roof only to rush in a few minutes later - she watched the second tower fall.

A heavy cloud spread out over the city that day, and didn't leave for a long time. Smoke billowed from where the towers once stood...I saw this as I went home for weeks and months after.

That day and the days that followed were dark days in New York City and around the globe. Many students at my school were directly affected by the tragedy. My eyes were opened that Tuesday, and I hope they never close again.

On this fifth anniversary of one of our nation's starkest tragedies, tell people that you care, take nothing for granted and, above all, make your life an example of what could be if we could all just open our hearts to the idea of peace.

"All we are saying is give peace a chance." (Lennon/Ono)

Could someone please pass the Korn?

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Tue, 05 Sep 2006 23:30:00 +0000

Remember that Family Values Tour show I had mentioned a few entries ago? 'Kay, now remember the insane wind and rain that the area saw this past Saturday? Yea... that was the day of the show. The outdoor show on Jones Beach on the Long Island Sound. See where I'm going with this?

All of the images in this blog are courtesy the cell phone cam of Jesse Elgarten, the valiant man who helped both another femme and myself endure high winds, crazy rain and a three-hour rain delay (he was also fabulous as a chauffeur -- you rock!). Above, you see the Long Island Sound raging over the side of the venue. The top section of the Nikon at Jones Beach Theater - where we were supposed to be sitting - was closed due to dangerously high winds after four bands played.

This is the other side of the venue as the water continued to rise. Delays between bands increased and we knew that something was going on. A major powwow of roadies, stage hands and assorted other rock tour folk gathered on the stage. The equipment was getting soaked even with the plastic coverings that had been brought on stage, and the waves were crashing precariously close to the mixers.

Here you see the entire front section of the venue... flooded. The water rose to the height of chair seats, and that section was closed off as well. At 4:30 p.m., they announced a three-hour rain delay. When we returned at 7:30, the show was cancelled.

Hopefully they will reschedule. We did, however, get to see Bullets and Octane, Deadsy and 10 Years (Bury your Dead came on before we arrived). The three bands I saw totally rocked, and even with the insane weather, I had an awesome time.

Now I'll just hope that Korn, Deftones and Stone Sour reschedule something cool (I'd love to see more of the other bands on the tour, too, but I can only hope so big). Craziness!

In response to my last comment...

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Fri, 01 Sep 2006 18:58:00 +0000

Thank you for your comment, whoever you may be. I wanted to say that I would love for the blogs to become the new forum for our readers, as TownTalk once was. The variety of topics discussed under our blogs offer you, the readers, a chance to engage in discussions with both the bloggers as well as each other. And if we aren't talking about something that you want to discuss, then let us know. We'd love reader input and encourage you to share your thoughts with us.

Please do comment and send messages to the bloggers. We would be more than happy to chat!

I look forward to respnding to you soon!

Also, please check out NHRegister.com for a call out for submissions from you, the readers, to be a part of our "Remembering 9/11" section. I hope that you will take part in this interactive memorial that we will launch starting sometime next week.

Time for tunes

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Tue, 29 Aug 2006 23:30:00 +0000

As of next week, I'll be at my new apartment for 2 months and still have yet to put stuff up on my walls. In the lyrics of a Sum 41 song, "motivation, such an aggravation." (I will probably reference many song lyrics in blogs to come, just to give a head's up.)

In case I haven't mentioned it before, I love music of a wide array of genres. This coming weekend I will be attending the Family Values Tour at Jones Beach in NY. I've never been to a show such as this, so I'm super excited. I believe its' an all-day event, with some opening bands and then the frontrunners Stone Sour, the Deftones and Korn. I find it most amusing that my last concert was Ringo Starr and his All-Starr Band which featured (among others) Sheila E., Billy Squier and Richard Marx in addition to the former Beatle. I think I'm a bit eclectic... what do you think? ;-)

That being said, if you have any music you'd like to share with me, please do so. I'm into most everything, from classic rock and '60s pop to today's rock, hip hop and r&b. And I have a very open mind, so I'd be interested in anything you want to share. I already turn to friends and my fellow blogger Pat Ferrucci for his musical mentions, but the more the merrier!

Also, keep an eye out for an upcoming message where I will need your help for a project I'm working on!

Back at the Pilot Pen

noreply@blogger.com (Nancy Hall) — Thu, 24 Aug 2006 21:04:00 +0000

I was able to return to the tournament action again today in time to catch two of Russia's finest tennis players mid-set, as seen from the top of the main court in the photo above. Svetlana Kuznetsova defeated Elena Dementieva two sets to one.

This was the first time I saw a tennis match in person. Sure, I had watched them on TV whenever I flipped by one, but I never stopped to really watch it. I was fascinated.

These women were running all over the place, playing hard and hitting balls that I would run away from. The sounds of agony at a mistake, the cheering of the crowd as a player scored... it gave me a new appreciation for the sport.

And the fans... they came in all shapes and sizes. I was impressed at the age range, from small children to older adults who were completely engaged in the action.

Play on, Pilot Pen!