Just a quick follow- up from yesterday’s blog about my going to the social media “awesome” week for the game show The Price is Right. While I can’t divulge any details about the show results, it is safe to say that my garage will not need to be cleaned out for any additional vehicles to reside.
It was a fun day and rather longer than expected. We arrived at 8am and left after 2pm. We only filmed one episode that will air on January 27th. In the interest of educating any future attendees of the Price is Right, I have compiled a list of Do’s and Don’ts.
1- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing
2- Bring sunscreen- you will be outside for a large part of your day.
3- Don’t forget your ID
4- Bring your own lunch and drink – it is very expensive to eat their food.
If you park in their suggested parking lot be prepared for a rather steep payment. Note that there are no parking vouchers, so you pay in full wherever you park.
There are some really nice people who are in the audience. Newsflash: this can be a very good networking opportunity – so pack a few business cards! We met people from all over the country, including a whole bunch of Mary Kay Cosmetic representatives who were attending a local convention! If you are not a social butterfly then bring a book. They take your phones rather early in the waiting process.
Remember that the odds are not in your favor to be chosen, but for those that do hear the words, “Come on Down!”, it seems to be a hoot of an experience!
Below is the tweet of a pre- show photo with hubby and friends. I dressed as the “Queen of Tweet”. Our “interviewer” thought that was funny. My shirt says “TeamDrew” as my original outfit was “flagged” for possible advertising. Apparently @LouiseASL and #411Voices are known brands! OY!
And in the end…
Sorry, can’t tell you the outcome of the day. But, do catch the Social Media Awesome week for the Price is Right! Final note, if you are in Los Angeles and interested in attending a taping of a television show you may want to check out the On Camera Audiences website to see available shows and dates.
It all started with an email asking if I wanted VIP tickets to the Price is Right and to participate in their upcoming Social Media Week! Sounded fun. Why not!? That was about a month ago and now I am addicted to watching the show and “studying” for the “just in case” I get picked as a contestant during tomorrow’s taping. I looked and looked for help on how to “prepare” and found very little advice except from a fun blogger who did win.
What I have learned so far on my own won’t be very exciting to report – yet. Yes, they like to give away a lot of cars and there seems to be required jumping and screaming involved by every chosen contestant. And, that the more “over the top your personality is” then the more likely you are to be chosen.
Sneakers and t-shirts decorated with Price of Right references appear to be the outfit of choice, so I took to decorating a few shirts for my teammates (Hubby and a couple of friends) with a hashtag #TeamDrew ( a reference to host Drew Carey). I also ordered a second shirt with my Twitter handle @LouiseASL and #411Voices as the hashtag- but not sure that it will be allowed. So, I too may adorn a #TeamDrew tomorrow during the taping. I also bought a few obnoxious head bands and one crown. Apparently those with decorative headbands or crowns get chosen as contestants, or so it seems! So I have plenty of selection for our team, including the bright red and sparkly headband to the right
To date, hubby and I have watched over a dozen episodes. Trying to be more aware of the games and techniques used by those obviously more seasoned at this game than the two of us. I must give kudos to the Price is Right procurement team as the trip to Space Camp had me jumping for joy – as if I won it!
I also have found myself wandering up and down the supermarket aisle with much more care than ever. What is the price of baby food these days? Ketchup? Pancake mix? I always buy on sale, but those prices are not helpful when it comes to guessing correctly for this show! In other words, if you are a thrifty shopper you may be handicapped from winning … A brand new car!
I plan on chronicling my adventure, from a ‘social media – educational perspective’. It will be a bit tricky to take photos, as my beloved social media tool of choice, aka my iPhone, apparently is prohibited for use and needs to be handed over to security before entering the studio.
Stay tuned for at least a Part Two – which will either be the next chapter or the “we didn’t get picked as contestants” blog. Either way- I promise to make it educational and entertaining. Wish us luck! Gotta go… I need to make one last trip to the grocery store to learn the price of paper goods!
There are few television shows that I watch with such enthusiasm as Downton Abbey! I became a fan shortly after it first aired five seasons ago and haven’t missed an episode since. I have laughed with every sarcastic line from the Dowager Countess of Grantham (played brilliantly by Maggie Smith) and cried with each unexpected death of key players (Poor Lady Sybil Grantham and Mathew Crawley.) Rarely does this one hour drama miss a beat – as one would expect as Masterpiece Theater series on PBS
Elizabeth McGovern (Lady Cora Crawley) today was at the Tournament of Roses Parade on the award winning Downton Abbey float sponsored by PBS! And if Elizabeth McGovern looks familiar you may remember her from shows such as Three Moons Over Milford, Ragtime and even the award winning feature, Ordinary People.
Maggie Smith has been in more than 59 films and television programs. (via IMDB) However, for many it is her role as the Dowager Countess of Grantham that has brought her the most widespread recognition in the United States. Although I bet others will say it is her role in the Harry Potter movie series as Hogwarts’ Professor Minerva McGonagall that has made her beloved among fans.
The very strong willed head butler, Carson, is played by Jim Carter who happens to be married to a Hogwarts “staff” member – Dolores Umbridge! (For those who are not Harry Potter fans she played the role as the Ministry of Magic! And yes there seems to be a bit of cross-over with casting Harry Potter actors or relatives in Downton Abbey!)
Downton Abbey is a goldmine!
How many Downton Abbey related products are available for purchase on Amazon? If you guessed 14,218 then you would be correct! Yes, my friends you can buy everything from books to clothing to even dozens of autographed memorabilia just by clicking on to Amazon!.
Note if you have missed this program no worries … the full set of episodes are available on Amazon’s Prime videos. The UK episodes are purported to have a few more “additions” to the US versions.
Curious about the little ones’ that are roaming the set as Sybby, George and Marigold – the grandchildren of the Lord Grantham? Well, you will be happy to know that they are just as adorable off the set as on screen. Here is an article I found on TIME with info about these little cherubs. And another from The Daily Mail (UK). Gosh they are so darn cute and yes twins play the part of George Crawley!
And, what about Season 6 (no spoilers here) – Well for me I will have to wait and see where this story will journey and soon come to an end. Yes, the show producers have announced that Season 6 will be the last. (Commence tears) But fear not, as before the directors says, “It’s a wrap to Season 6” we will be offered one shining final memory as George Clooney is purported to make an appearance during this season.
Yes, I am breaking blogging rules for this last post of 2015. I haven’t researched a topic or written 300-750 words with great SEO. No polls. No great Vlog or photo essay. I am not going to write a passionate essay nor offer ways to practice #SocialGood.
Simply, I just want to take a moment to wish all who read Where Learning Meets Laughter an AMAZING 2016! May your year fulfill your dreams and wishes.
Today a question by a blogger was posed on WORDPRESS – “What was your favorite post that you wrote in 2015?” That is a tricky question. The posts I enjoyed writing or felt had the most “impact” were within the “social good or philanthropy”. But, interestingly the post that had the most direct readership (from WordPress directly vs. a “third party”) was a fashion blog – a topic I rarely discuss.
So – which blogs made the list with readers and which were my favorites here on Where Learning Meets Laughter?
Dear Burlington Timeswas written in March 2015 as a response to a published letter to the editor titled: “Signing Specialists are aDistraction”, by a Mr. Muccolini. Apparently their reader had taken issue with sign language interpreters who help convey information during public and media events, but “distract” hearing people. (Sigh) After Mr. Mussolini authored his letter to the editor my Signing Families inbox was beyond full with requests to “do something” – so I did.
My response was passionate and very well received. Sadly, Mr. Mussolini or the paper issued a response to my letter to the editor. At least I had the gumption to “do something” – social good triumphed!
Tyler, Justine and Joey
A little fun at the Vanity Fair photo booth with iJustine and
Having a great time at VANITY FAIR event with Tyler Oakley, iJustine, and Joey Graceffa
YouTubers with hearts of gold and mad social media skills!
When you get to spend time at a Vanity Fair event with iJustine, Tyler Oakley and Joey Garceffa it is a day like no other! These YouTube sensations taught me a lot about social media from the eyes of millennials. Have to admit I bow with respect to all as they are accomplished authors on top of having loyal fans and profitable YouTube channels. It was a pleasure to meet them during OSCARS 2015 (actually, I had met Justine prior, but we didn’t have a chance to really connect until last February.) Here is my blog about this fun and funny experience!
Hurricane earthquake disaster damage ruined house
Luna
#SocialGood
When I get an opportunity to promote a #SocialGood cause or company that is dedicated to helping others, it makes my heart sing. Here is a list of many of the social good blogs I penned from 2015. Please take a minute to get to know these fabulous people dedicated to helping others in our communities and worldwide.
Louise’s note: I am loaning my blog to a very special mom who is the matriarch of three teens. She openly will tell you that they all are very amazing people in their own right. However, the middle child has struggled with schizophrenia as a child and now as an adult. That has made the familys’ home life topsy-turvy. Not just during the holidays, but all year. Perhaps her sentiments will resonate with other families’ who also struggle with mental illness.
Please help me welcome Rhia Roberts to my column and the holiday card that she has penned for her family and friends and now all of you.
As you know, this has been a difficult year for us as our daughter transitions from Childhood Schizophrenia to Adulthood Schizophrenia. And so, Christmas cards may be late…or even non-existent! But to remind you you’re in our thoughts, I’ve written you a poem…
‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; All the stockings are hung and the kids fast asleep And dreaming of old Santa, and snow six feet deep.
And the turkey is stuffed, and the table is set,
And the work is all done, and all deadlines met.
While, perhaps, this scenario is true at your place,
in my home and my world, this just isn’t the case!
For I’m running around like a chick with no head
Getting everything done before going to bed.
Before going to bed? Ha! That outlook is bleak-
Because my kids aren’t sleeping, NO, they’re at their peak!
With unwritten Christmas cards still scattered around,
And unwrapped Christmas gifts still piled high on the ground-
In the spirit of telling the truth – no holds barred –
My stupid turkey’s not stuffed, but still frozen hard!
And although there are things that I do very well,
Shopping…baking…cleaning…are my versions of hell!
But don’t worry about us and please do not fear,
Our Christmas will be happy, as usual, this year.
Our dinner may be ruined, our chores not complete-
At least our tree’s standing – though our house isn’t neat.
And though some of our gifts may still be at the store,
You’ll get a warm welcome if you knock at our door.
For we have family, and friends, and people who care,
Who understand our plight – and STILL want to be there.
To us, that gift is worth more than silver or gold-
It’s invaluable to us, when all’s done and told.
For raising a child with schizophrenia is hard;
There’s no relaxation; you must be on your guard.
The worst is that feeling of deep isolation,
And loneliness, and fear, and pure desperation!
Because this is an illness that many can’t ‘see’
They question OUR parenting and veracity.
So, to every one of you who held your belief,
In the midst of our despair, you brought us relief.
So now, hear me exclaim, ‘ere I drop out of sight,
“Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!”
Happy Christmas, to you and yours, too Rhia. Thank you for sharing.
As a present from me to YOU please find in this blog a FREE download of my 10 FAVORITE SIGNS intended for beginner or novice sign language learners. The ASL photography are for sharing and printing.
The same signs found in the downloadable document also are included in these open captioned sign language videos from my YouTube Channel (Please go check out my channel and many other sign language videos!).
As I type this blog I am watching CNN news reporting from the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) about the terrorist threat that forced their schools to close today. Luckily, students were not in session, thus avoiding a massive evacuation across an entire city. But, what if students had been in the classrooms, including Deaf students who use sign language to communicate? Would our school staff and emergency responders been able to evacuate all safely?
Knowing a few words in sign language can save lives.
So, I am asking on behalf of those who are Deaf or use sign as a preferred mode for communication if you would take a few moments to learn a few signs.
The video below is a quick intro to sign language terms used for evacuations. The video is not captioned as it was intended for hearing people who do not know sign language. Many of the same words are provided with captions in photos, below. You are welcome to copy the photos in this blog below and share with others. Consider these photos FREE SHARE.
If you are a member of a Fire Department, Police Department or Ambulance Corp. and wish a free Sign Language for Emergency Situations DVD with an emergency communication card (by Signing Families, 2010), please connect by sending an email to INFO >at< Signing Families <dot> com. Please provide details of where you work. This offer is good until January 15, 2016 to the first 25 agencies that connect. Only one per facility, please.
LASTLY…
Note: Remember that instructional materials and quick courses should not be considered a replacement for a qualified sign language interpreter.
Tired of mall parking lots or endless waiting in line? Feeling overwhelmed by online shopping – especially Amazon? Need help this holiday season for ideas that are not the “same old, same old”? Then you have stumbled upon the right blog to direct you to some great gift options.
There was a time when women had limited career choices and often found income by selling beauty products or home goods, such as Tupperware or Mary Kay Cosmetics. Now with the calendar turning to 2016 women are continuing to sell these products, but there is a distinct change. Instead of the reward being a bit of “pocket money” these women are making some serious income. And, the selection of products is outstanding and millennials will enjoy them as much as baby boomers!
Anita Garcia
I introduced you to Anita Garcia in the Part One of my blog about the women entrepreneurs from Beach Cities Breakfast Club (BCBC). What I didn’t relate was that she has been selling Tupperware for more than four decades. YEP! That is 40 years of selling these timeless home products! Tupperware maintains their tried and true product line, yet introduces fresh ideas on a regular basis. Tupperware of 2015 is not your mother’s (or grandmother’s) company. Want to revisit the land of Tupperware? Connect with Anita by clicking here!
Mary Kay Cosmetics also has a reputation of empowering their representatives to be self- reliant entrepreneurs and smart business women. Lori McConnaha is the BCBC rep for Mary Kay Cosmetics and well on her way to receiving the infamous pink cadillac. Now I must admit that I was not a consumer of Mary Kay until I met Lori. But, now I have an insane addiction to their mascara and eye cream! In fact, Lori and her Mary Kay cosmetics are the what the411 Voices social media correspondents use to look camera ready on the red carpet! Lori is so popular that we have to reserve her months in advance for special occasions and you can, too! She creates the cutest gift certificate packages when you give a make-over to a special someone! Connect with Lori for special events hair and make-up
Lori McConnaha, Mary Kay rep and stylist for 411 Voices – on the red carpet for the FRIEND MOVEMENT with Jennifer Ettinger and Louise Sattler
Often our 411 Voices has a need for a photographer. We only make one call – to Joy Daunis from Joyous Photos in El Segundo. Another longtime member of BCBC, Joy has an eye for snapping a photo that depicts in a single shot the essence of an event. Recently, she photographed for our group the Asian Film Festival the Global Change Gala event. I loved how she captured the “action” during this Red Cross Benefit. Joy also loves to photograph reunions and family group photos – which is a gift I gave my hubby last year. Also, know that Joy can offer lessons on how to work that camera you got as a holiday gift. Here is Joy’s contact info: http://www.JoyousPhotos.com
Photo of Kimberly Cheng, host of the Global Change Gala for the Red Cross during the Asian World Film Festival. Photographed by Joy Daunis
Your special someone likes bling?
Lyn D Jewelry, owned by Lynette Vandaveer, offers one of a kind pieces of wearable art at very reasonable prices! I love Lynnette Vandaveers’ vision of creating beautiful creations. Her heart and soul pours in to each piece. Lynette has an active website that showcases her jewelry.
When it comes to fashion I must admit that I have another addiction to confess. I love CABI clothing. First because of the uniqueness of the designs and secondly because the clothing has a lasting quality. Although CABI can be touted as a bit “pricey” the reality is that these clothes will outlast nearly anything else in your closet and still be “trendy”. Plus, where else can you buy clothing and get the help of a great fashion advisor such as Kathy Gonzalez! This dynamo knows how to pair the right clothes to the right person. CABI is a gift idea for the hard to buy woman in your life… Order that coveted gift certificate from Kathy buy clicking here. By the way I LOVE the zigzag jacket that just arrived at my door this week!
And… to wear UNDER those fabulous CABI clothes are Ruby Ribbons foundations who are sold by BCBC member Tracy Farman. They have special camisoles that take the place of cumbersome bras. Also, their lace undies and other clothing pieces are so stylish. Again… I may need a 12- step program to help save me from my Ruby Ribbon addiction!
A GIFT FOR YOUR HOME
Linda Straley is a decorating genius! I had her in my home to help “erase the beige” and before I knew it we were living in shades of teal and purple! What a difference it made and she can help you, too! In fact – give a gift certificate to yourself and maybe to someone who you know would love to facelift their living area but doesn’t usually treat themselves. AND…Linda also sells amazing sculptures and functional pieces of art. Her chandeliers rock!
Now if you live in the Beach Cities consider giving loved ones gift certificates to these great places.
The FACE PLACE and MORE offers personalized facials and hair removal. Owned and operated by seasoned professional, Linda Hirsch, this is THE place to go for pampering! Linda’s facial (with a neck massage) is fabulous for forgetting holiday stress! Her prices are very reasonable and well worth every penny!
Located in El Segundo, CA
After your fabulous facial – walk to HAIRLINES where you can continue your pampering with hair styling by the incomparable Geri Dahl. Not only do you get great service here but, you are treated to the luxury of hanging out in a funky designed salon that pumps out the best of Motown! (Sing – a – longs are optional!). While at the salon treat yourself to her FABULOUS hair products. (The conditioner is divine!) Geri makes info videos, too!
GIVE THE GIFT OF CARING
Last but not least is a very special gift option from FirstLight HomeCare.Chanel Garcia of BCBC has often said that Firstlight offers services beyond what other agencies provide. Here are some examples:
New Mom assistance. Firstlight will bring a care giver to the home to help mom out. Even take care of the simple errands or watching older children.
Post-operative care. Just back from a stay at the hospital and need an extra hand to help around the house, do errands or drive you to appointments?
Respite care. This is HUGE. Imagine giving parents who care for adult children with Autism a day of respite. Even a few hours. This would be huge in helping to rejuvenate those who have much responsibility.
Helping seniors. Give your elderly relatives the gift of assistance with everyday living needs or special care.
Special events. Need an extra helper to care for an elderly relative during a wedding. Firstlight can help.
If you have questions or would like to learn how to access a gift certificate contact Chanel Garcia.
Senior care, respite care and new mom assistance – a gift certificate from Firstlight Homecare can make a huge difference this holiday season!
That leaves me.
Yep… as the social media marketing member of BCBC, I represent a larger group of professionals- 411 Voices. Our media marketing services are extensive. We also have a full roster of experts who are nationally known media personalities and speakers. Check out our full portfolio at 411Voices.com
and a couple of friends) with a hashtag #TeamDrew ( a reference to host Drew Carey). I also ordered a second shirt with my Twitter handle @LouiseASL and #411Voices as the hashtag- but not sure that it will be allowed. So, I too may adorn a #TeamDrew tomorrow during the taping. I also bought a few obnoxious head bands and one crown. Apparently those with decorative headbands or crowns get chosen as contestants, or so it seems! So I have plenty of selection for our team, including the bright red and sparkly headband to the right
CABI can be touted as a bit “pricey” the reality is that these clothes will outlast nearly anything else in your closet and still be “trendy”. Plus, where else can you buy clothing and get the help of a great fashion advisor such as Kathy Gonzalez! This dynamo knows how to pair the right clothes to the right person. CABI is a gift idea for the hard to buy woman in your life… Order that coveted gift certificate from 
Linda Straley is a decorating genius! I had her in my home to help “erase the beige” and before I knew it we were living in shades of teal and purple! What a difference it made and she can help you, too! In fact – give a gift certificate to yourself and maybe to someone who you know would love to facelift their living area but doesn’t usually treat themselves. AND…Linda also sells amazing sculptures and functional pieces of art. Her chandeliers rock!
