Passing through South Dakota for the first time... and then back to Colorado!

Well it's been grand to be back in Colorado again is all I can say.  The past week has been a much needed breath of fresh air.

I did what I needed to do in South Dakota, including turning in my Ohio license and getting a new one.  Kinda weird but yes it does seem I am a SD resident... but still I'm gonna just say I am traveling through no matter where I may be at the time.  It's better that way.

I drove through the Black Hills and that was without question the highlight of the SD visit.  Pretty hills and not too much of a grade anywhere, so I can see why the scenic byway is popular with bikers.  I stopped at Deadwood, bought a shirt and the most sparkly belt I've ever had.  

It happened to be their Octoberfest celebration, though there weren't too many tourists out drinking so it took me a while to actually pay attention to this.  I suppose if you like to drink and gamble, SD and little historic towns like this might really do it for ya.  I'm neither of those things, so I was just biding time.  

I tried to visit Mount Rushmore but the fog was too thick to see anything more than a faint ghostly image even from the pathway, up as close as allowable.   

Mount Rushmore through the cloud cover

With my BMV tasks completed, I headed SW quickly and arrived in Fort Collins, CO the next day.  It was funny to be a stop at all, because years ago I'd lived there briefly and hated it absolutely.  There were no dispensaries back then, and it had never been a friendly town in my experiences.  It was nice to be able to hit n run it for supplies and food.  

Then I headed up the hill, into those beckoning mountains, towards Hot Sulfur Springs Resort & Spa.  I didn't really think about it, but let the navigator take me via the most direct route... which happened to be through the Rocky Mountain National Park!  It had been the mid to late 90s since I'd been through the park, so I went ahead and got a 7 day pass (I COULD still go back tomorrow if I wanted but will refrain for gas costs!).  The RV wasn't too terribly happy with me for pushing us on through the park as fast as I did.  I should have taken more breaks for all the grades and hard work the engine had to do.  I did stop at the highest point to take a pic of the sunset and the Continental Divide on the horizon.  Very pretty!

at the highest point in the drive thru Rocky Mountain National Park

I'd been to Hot Sulfur Springs once before last year and it was a great stay of more than 3 days.  I didn't realize it before, but there is a public park/campground (no hookups) right on the other side of the train tracks from the resort.  That was brilliant as all I had to do was walk a few paces and go soak or come back home in a flash.  I bought a 2 day pass so I could relax properly.  And by the way, I like the train though most folks complain about it cause they don't know of it in advance.  It comes along often and sometimes it takes quite a long time to pass by (3.5 minutes on one count!).  

While there, I worked on a few costume pieces for others but mostly tried to get my foot to heal... the poison oak I'd gotten 2 days prior to leaving my Mom's was a terrible companion to bring along!  It was a lovely visit and would have been improved upon only by taking a 2 hour trek further NW into the mountains to Strawberry Park in Steamboat Springs... but I could not justify the extra expense so instead headed back towards the front range.  

if you look closely you can see the rainbow that happened at dusk

I passed through Central City, Blackhawk and Idaho Springs on my way to Nederland and then to Boulder.  All of these are places I like to pass through and this trip was no exception as the day was clear, sunny and warm.  There was a Stain Wise dispensary in Idaho Springs that I happened to drive by, so I stopped and looked them up and walked back to it.  

Stain Wise Site:
 http://strainwise.com/

Nice place, but almost out of flower save some high CBD stuff which I had never tried before - it's specifically for pain relief, not a head high.  My neck, head and back thanked me very much for trying it out!  I'll be sure to always have at least a little CBD strain around from now on.

I stopped at Silver Stem Fine Cannabis in Nederland and finally found a product I'd been wanting to try for a long time but had never had access to before called Foria. 2 ingredients: coconut and cannabis.  I bought the bigger bottle cause who knows when I might run into it again but I wasn't taking chances.  Anyhow, great product - does exactly what it claims to do.

Foria Site:
 http://www.foria.com/
Foria Facebook page:
 https://www.facebook.com/foria

Silver Stem is a wonderful little dispensary right by a coffee shop with a great patio to sit and take in the day.  And I believe their special was the best deal I've gotten so far this trip, and excellent product as well.
Silver Stem in Nederland Site:
 http://www.silverstemcannabis.com/


Of course, I'm always littering my business cards at dispensaries and offering my services as a PR person or someone to make appearances for them at festivals and places where they'd have a booth or want to flag down people.  Ya never know.... I could come up with some fun gigs later from it, as most shops are happy to get the card.  

The last few days, I've spent in and around Boulder.  One of my favorite local spots up the hill has been a home site for me of late, though I've been a prudent girl and not tried to press my luck and stay after dusk (though in prior years, without an RV, I was able to sleep here all night several times).  It's a special spot, though right off highway 119 and heavily traveled by tourists, fisherman and rock climbers.  It was peaceful enough for me to finish the sewing I had to do and enjoy the mountain.  At night, I found a spot to park in town that is right by most everything I need... who knew it could be so easy!?!?  

I am in Colorado Springs again and am happy to see my Zodiac extended family!

Philly, Burlesque & Beyond, Godflesh & Eagles of Death Metal

There is much to write about regarding the trip to Philadelphia a few weeks ago. Thankfully, I left just before the Pope arrived and was not there while he was in town, though preparations were already slowing up traffic in town. 

For Monday night, I had bought tickets to see Eagles of Death Metal with the intent of meeting Matt McJunkins and Jeff Friedl - also members of the Puscifer clan and several other projects.  I'm happy to say, my goal was accomplished!  

with Jeff Friedl, Matt McJunkins and Beth Kellner of The Roddenberries

Eagles of Death Metal FB page:
 https://www.facebook.com/eaglesofdeathmetal?fref=ts&ref=br_tf

Puscifer:
www.puscifer.com  


I was also booked to perform with the Drunken Piano Band at the after party, one of many events in the Fringe Festival.  I was basically gogo dancing to a live improv band.  
 

gogo dancing with The Drunken Piano band

It was complete fun, if not a bit chaotic and a "fly by the seat of your pants" kind of a night.  

Both Jeff and Matt were completely down to earth and a joy to chill with during down time.  They stayed to sit and see a bit of what we all did with the Drunken Piano group.  It was so wonderful to meet those guys in person finally!  They were given biz cards of course, and I once again offered my services up.  I told Jeff I'd see him in Denver soon when Puscifer plays there.  I look forward to sharing more of my road adventures and treats next time we meet.


    But I digress.... back to the Burlesque & Beyond portion of the adventure!!


Wednesday night I was again a gogo dancer for the band The DEAD SEXY SUPREMES.  I'd not gotten to my storage in Columbus in time, so I left without many things I wanted to bring, more costumes being on that list.  So I quickly whipped up an outfit from a remnant I bought just because about a week before. 

make shift costume for gogo dancing with The Dead Sexy Supremes

Another huge treat for me Wednesday was getting to see Godflesh perform live - a first for me!  It gave me chills, it was so intense and grand.  I was super happy to run into the 2 men after their set, give them cards and tell them what an honor it was to finally see them perform.  I love this venue for run ins like this!! 

the view from between dressing rooms at Underground Arts... and GODFLESH playing!!!

 Godflesh Site:
http://www.godflesh.com/




Friday  I got to perform 2 numbers, the FOX and my Weed #. 

Then the Roddenberries played and were AMAZING! It was my first time seeing them play live and they did not disappoint!  Check this out:
 https://youtu.be/6E6afT-bfbg
Facebook Page:
 https://www.facebook.com/TheRoddenberries?fref=ts



Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday nights I was an honored spectator, delighting in the various acts and entertainment offered.  

I got to see my good friend John Fahres, who set up the GoFundMe campaign to help me after the RV fire.  Thank you John for coming out Monday and Friday!  Always lovely to see you and happy you got to see the Fox finally.

Saturday I hung out with an old, dear friend from Columbus who lives in the outskirts of town.  Thanks Jeffrey for spending time with me and going out to your first burlesque show with me!  Peekaboo Revue is an excellent way to get introduced to the art form!
Peek-A-Boo Revue:
https://www.facebook.com/ThePeekABooRevue?fref=ts

I also saw my weed advocate and comedian friend Nikki Allen Poe and his lovely lady Kitty... it'd been too long for sure!
https://www.facebook.com/nikkiallanpoe?fref=ts

I always have fun with this group of folks in Philly and this trip was no exception.  A big huge thank you to Late Nite Cabaret & Scott Johnson who invited me back for this week long end to the Fringe Festival. I was grateful to be able to attend, watch and join in the fun!  I was asked to return next year to which I had to reply, "Of course!"

Thank you Scott for keeping Burlesque & Beyond going!  It's the ONLY FREE festival of it's kind, so please attend next year if you can and show them some love!

Late Nite Cabaret:
https://www.facebook.com/latenitecabaret?fref=ts


And thank you to the venue for hosting such amazing talent on both stages!
Underground Arts:
 https://www.facebook.com/UndergroundArtsPhilly?fref=ts

Cleveland and Pop Will Eat Itself

My head is still reeling as it's just a few hours post show.  

Amazing is the word that comes instantly to mind.  I had wanted to see this band live for 20 years and tonight, while the super moon was invisible behind a shield of clouds, for me the magic was inside the Agora.  

With much anticipation, I paced about the place and waited while 3 opening bands did their thing.  When the time came for PWEI I was SO ready, as were they!  Sound and energy were all on point.  The crowd was FAR too sparse which I tend to lay on the venue's head for lack of enough local PR (I see this often).  The local supporting bands members did a fine job with the diverse set list with both new and old tunes with all manner of stops in between.  It's not often I must be right up front for a band these days, but for these guys... Hey Yeah!  

                                   

After the show, I think of the Hollow costume in the RV and run out to gather up a bag with some of that fun stuff in it.  I settle on just showing them the panties which sparkle with swarvoski crystals PWEI across the front of them.  Graham Crabbi took a photo, which I hope will get posted online so I can have a copy, and said he'd not seen anything like that before.  Perfect reply.  That's what ya want was my response.  I met Mary Byker a minute later and left the men with my business card and the thought planted that I would LOVE an excuse to come to the UK and if ever they should see a need for me... I was at their disposal.  I wished them safe travels and tried hard not to gush like a fan girl too much as I thanked them again for coming to perform for us.  

All in all, I couldn't be more pleased right now.  SO MUCH FUN!!!



Last year's performance of my burlesque number for "Hollow" at Trauma

Progress!

A lot of good news has gone undocumented here so let's get to it!

I've settled with the insurance company and have a replacement RV that I acquired earlier this week.  I only was able to replace it so soon due to a good friend stepping in and facilitating, otherwise I'd still be looking.  

So a big thank you Kerry!  By the way, he's done some great work on my Jimmy the last few weeks too so I've gotta mention his shop and say if anyone in this area needs a good, honest, proficient shop this is where to go:

K&N Automotive
 119 S College St
 Piqua, Oh
 (937)778-9926
Web:
 http://www.knautomotive.com/
Facebook Page:
 https://www.facebook.com/pages/K-N-Automotive/192537146233?fref=ts



And in other news, I'm awaiting confirmation of some details still but I'll be in Philly performing at Burlesque & Beyond again this year.  Dates are Sept 15-19th.  I love the people there and can't wait to return! 
Facebook Page for Late Nite Cabaret with info:
https://www.facebook.com/latenitecabaret?fref=ts







And I have to shout out a huge THANK YOU! to everyone who has helped donate to the fund to get my ride and life going again!  So far we have raised $1700 of the $5000 goal and it's just wonderful!  I am ever grateful to everyone who donated and also my good friend John for starting it up for me and maintaining the fund page and all that goes with it.  I feel honored by such good friends all around!

I still need to replace my computer and a few other little things, but mostly everything is settling down after the smoke of the fire has dissipated now.  It's grand to have a little house on wheels again - and especially such a well taken care of unit where everything works!  I'll be trying to book shows out West and still looking for that elusive job out in nature.  But now that I have a good RV, it's much more likely that I can be in the type of remote places I really dig.




Oh.... and did I mention yet... Puscifer tour!  I've got a ticket for the Denver show.  
Facebook Page with tour info:
https://www.facebook.com/PusciferMusic?fref=ts

GoFundMe and waiting on the insurance process...

Little has gone on of late but here are the updates on my current waiting status....

While we all wait on Union Police to complete the fire report, there is little to be done.  Apparently, once the insurance company gets the report, they will offer me a payout... I've no idea what amount it will be.

Here are the pictures I took of the wreckage in daylight at the tow yard.  Hard to believe it still.

BUT some good news is that my good friend John Fahres took it upon himself to start a GoFundMe to help me get a better RV this time.   I am most grateful to have such good friends!

http://www.gofundme.com/MissTheresaTourRV


And while I wait, I have been looking at a RVs online.  There is an auction this Friday that I'm going to but not sure if it's too soon and the money won't be there yet.  If that is the case, I'll keep looking at other options, but the next auction is in a month.  

Time flies by and I am still in Dayton, Oh where I began.

Fire

There is no good way to announce this so here it goes - there was an engine fire a few nights ago that raged thru the entire RV.  I got out with my purse.  Most things were in storage for upcoming repair work.  But also because there were some new leaks that developed around the shower/back bed area and I wasn't taking chances that items could get damaged.  I had all my costumes in storage as I had no shows coming up at all (this is a sad thing in itself).  I lost my computer and speakers, MiFi Jetpack, Magellan Navigator, and then everyday clothes (2 suitcases), towels, bedding, kitchen stuff/food... everyday basics, all of which I will have to list in detail for insurance today.  Much paperwork to send off to the claims adjuster asap.  Hoping it all goes swiftly.

So far this is the only pic I took... I was too upset to do more than snap this shot once the fire was out and day was breaking...

The goal will be to get another motor home and get back out West as soon as I can.  

Stepping down from the Collective & other misfortunes...

This past week and the following weekend were a bit trying to say the least.  

I shall go in chronological order to keep it simple.

Tuesday last week I was with my Mom and she finally insisted upon pressing me for an answer to what happened with my Dad and I.  We were in the car when she asked... and I was cornered.  I had no intention of sharing this information with her, as her health isn't the best and this is just one more thing to add stress and concern.  And something to alter the way I was seen and dealt with... it just made things a bit more strange than I cared to handle. 

 

FYI in a nutshell: there were years of regular, inappropriate sexual education from my Dad that I only found out about via FasterEFT about a year and a half ago. 

Whew!  There it is out there in print for the first time for general consumption! Since she brought it up and other immediate family members now know, I don't mind sharing it.  My Dad won't ever get online and I have no intention of talking to him, as it's just not necessary.  

Anyhow, this "chat" put me in a weird frame of mind.  My Mom wants to know what he did and talk more about it, which I don't really wanna do.  There are many, many extenuating circumstances beyond the main issue and it's all just been a bit too unsettling and disconcerting for me.

And more fuel for my angst: 

At some point during the week, I was asked if I'd like to perform at a venue that I have publicly stated MANY times that I will never frequent or support.  This friend should have known better but apparently I'm supposed to forget my past, forget my WORD to myself and compromise to get a gig??? NO.  I politely declined and reminded her why.  A few of my Collective mates have been comfortable performing at these few venues I will not frequent and that is their choice and I honor it, in spite of how I feel personally.  I have not said anything about it to them or asked them not to perform at these places as I have no right to do so, nor would I ever ask such a thing.

OK then, fast forward to Friday.  Lots went on and I wasn't feeling the best with OH allergies kicking my ass into sleep very early that night. 

During the day, I attended a friend's wedding in the park and shot video for her (soon to be edited and delivered I promise!). I hung out with my nephew Michael and his lady Cole. Though it was a bit of a stressful day for them and some other friends in attendance, it went fairly well. I was there partly to lend support to him and was happy to do so.  I left the park so tired that I didn't make it long into the night before crashing out at my Mom's before midnight.  

That night around 3 a.m., I missed an important text and call from one of my best friends across the country who was in much need of support.  I inadvertently hurt her feelings by not being available. This helped lead to the next series of events which snowballed out of control fast..... but I jump slightly ahead of myself. 

So Saturday was another busy day before the show in Columbus.  

My oldest brother's birthday was the next day so I made sure to get him a card before leaving Dayton. He is the one who rescues me with his skill and know how when car issues crop up by the way! 

I met a few friends for tea upon my arrival in cowtown, trying to assess how things with the Columbus Burlesque Collective had been going in my absence.  What I heard was not unexpected but disappointing: that discontent had gone unchecked and problems developed with a few members and nothing was really being done about it. Silly me... I wanted to help so said I'd try to talk to the pertinent parties and see if we couldn't make things OK.  

But let's let that portion of the tale simmer on the back burner for now... 

because it was then time for the show at Shrunken Head with the Ooh-La-Las: "Girls, Gags and Giggles!"  I always have a great time at this show and this night was no exception.  

I had a bonus of my old best friend from school being in town for just one night with her brother.  By the time she arrived, she had just missed my last number by 10 minutes.  But it didn't matter... all that mattered was she made it and we got a few hours to chill because we hadn't seen each other in many years.  

While sitting with her, I saw that a follow up text had come thru an hour prior from my good friend I mentioned above whom I'd missed.  It let me know things were not alright without her directly saying it; but passive aggressive words came thru loud and clear.  I couldn't handle it so put the phone down to deal with it Sunday.  

Sunday.... the day of explosions

Ok here comes the real trouble.

I tried to set up a tea date with another Collective mate to discuss issues... one of them again being invites to perform at venues I won't support, but also the division I mentioned above.  It only led to texting and typing and no resolution and NO meeting set.  I gave up on trying to help at that point honestly.  I said I'd try to mediate but found this was beyond my usually high patience levels, which were waning fast.  So that left me feeling more frustrated, more angry and not heard.

Next I try again to reach my good friend across the country and tell her I was sorry I was busy when she tried to reach me.  I got back a few curt texts saying basically that a bunch of friends were being cut loose... but the words were not so kind. In my mind, there was no mistaking the message to fuck off.  

This moment was pivotal for me.  I fell into the comfortable Ohio angst even more and didn't bother to try to rise above it this time.  A failure of which I am not proud.

I wanted to see what would happen if I posted a preemptive plea to the Collective to please never book a show with our group name behind it and the two specific venues I referenced above. The point was: do what you will with your other groups and individual appearances but please, out of respect to myself and a few others that had been injured, to refrain from this breaking open of old wounds.  

That post was NOT well received by at least one person - but honestly when I read the words "liar" I stopped reading replies to my post, of which there were many.  

I quickly stated I was done.  I removed myself from the group page and stated I was not performing in the next two Collective shows (which were part of why I was staying in town so long!).  I took myself off the Collective's blog page and it looks like I was never there now... but I feel the void. 

A not so funny side note that I discovered while tapping on the Collective falling out: my Dad used to threaten me to keep silent about what he did to me by saying, "I'll tell them all you're a little liar if you tell." When I recalled this, I burst into tears and tapped till they subsided.  But the trauma isn't totally dealt with yet... just too much for me to process all at once.  BUT it helped me understand why I was triggered so strongly and angrily by the one Collective member who called me a liar when I had not lied (she took exception to one word I used and ran with it). 

So I should thank her here for putting me in touch with that, as she and I are not friends anymore so I can't just tell her. But I'm sure the info will get to her via the blog and others reading it.  Sorry... you had no idea you were "playing my Dad" did you???!!  Nor did I, till too late and for that I am sorry. I normally DO react way better - but we can't always be the bigger person and rise above, even when that is all we really want.

Monday came and I sent a group message to a few of the people in the Collective for which I had parting words - some were harsh and some just wanted others to heal their wounds.  I was terribly hurt, broken and didn't waste words being kind.  More angst followed that day due to my treating others as harshly as they treated me. I wasn't my usual nice self and boy people didn't like that, nor were they ready for it! 

I felt I had no other choice but to walk away from a group that I'd invested SO much love, effort, money, time and will into supporting.  But it had started to deteriorate as groups with strong, creative egos are prone to do... and I could not support it anymore.  The Collective mission was being trampled just a bit too much and I just couldn't stomach it... not after being on my own for 6 months and feeling the lightness of being solo and away from OH melodrama.  

So that is it for me and the "group" scenario.  I just won't do it ever again, not for anyone. I HAD been doing it to keep the ideals of my good friend alive and well... and when she turned away from me I felt no more obligation to it.  I know it has hurt friends and for that I am sorry. But I am NOT sorry for my actions, however harsh they may have seemed. Believe me I say I went lightly with my deep disappointment and my words, as I wanted to be more severe. My heart is broken from the experience.

The ONLY saving grace that lifted my spirits has been a visit with my good friend Glenn Pine and shooting some amazing images of the Monarch costume last night. Here is one teaser image:

Now I am clamoring to leave OH but have a few commitments keeping me here. Glenn, who is ultra-handy with skills and equipment, is going to help work on the over-cab area of the RV so it'll not be leaky and actually be usable space. My nephew and his friend are going to look at the plumbing next week, and fingers crossed they can get some new lines run and things literally flowing.

Friday I head to Louisville, KY to help judge the Burlypicks KY Regional Competition, so if you're in the area don't miss the show!

Event Page:

https://www.facebook.com/events/1550500131867205/

OHIO days....

Back in Ohio and the days are sticky and green and tree pollen floats by like snow. It's not my favorite place in the world, but the people I've missed and it is grand to see them again.  


I've had some good times this past weekend with 2 Blowfly shows and It's Boob Thirty!  

Video snippet from Blowfly's Columbus show at Double Happiness last Saturday:

Some images from It's Boob Thirty! 

Photo by Glenn Pine

Photo by Glenn Pine

photo by Glenn Pine

There are about 6 more weeks here to go. I have another show this Saturday in Columbus with the Ooh La Las at The Shrunken Head... Girls, Gags & Giggles is always a fantastically fun time so don't miss it!

Event page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/968017549898057/?ref=22&source=22 
Promo Video:
https://www.facebook.com/MonCherieEntertainment/videos/872874872774030/?video_source=pages_finch_main_video




I'm starting to plan the production of the Columbus Burlesque Collective's set at ComFest next month.  We have a prime time on the Live Arts Stage at 9p on Friday June 26th... consistent with last year's set time so fingers crossed our fans will be there.  

Web Site for ComFest:
http://www.comfest.com/ 

Event page for the Collective's set:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1608120206098463/?hc_location=ufi 


I'm making a trip to the Burlypicks in KY May 29th!  So if you are in the area don't miss the show and come say hello!

KY Burlypicks Event page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1550500131867205/ 


It also seems like a few friends have the skills and can help fix a few RV issues while I'm here so that is wonderful!  

It's really a bad time of year to be in OH and living in an RV full time... with no A/C. It's only gonna get more intense as the days go by, cause the heat is really yet to come.  By the time the end of June rolls round... I'll be dying to get on the road back to CO and fast!!  

Traveling back to OH...

Ah well, it was bound to happen... a trip home.  I have one last show this Saturday in Colorado Springs then Sunday evening I hit the road from Denver.

The next few days will be busy like the last couple with sewing.  I'm debuting a new number on Saturday and will be furiously working on the costume up till the last minute, as it was a last minute decision.  I also have a little sewing to do for others to keep my time full.

Sunday I'll be attending the CO regionals of Burlypicks to support my friend Kougar DeVille.  If I'm a good girl, I'll leave for OH right after the show... but I may stay over a night and hit Indian Hot Springs in Idaho Springs before I leave.  There are NO hot springs anywhere near where I'm going.

Last week was a very lazy, restful time spent at Cottonwood Hot Springs (first visit) and then a day and a half at one of my favorite places Valley View Hot Springs.  I took a tumble while leaving Cottonwood and fell, which led to me going to soak more the next few days. Thankfully I wasn't as injured as I could have been sans the soaking.  Still, it put a damper on a few things as I had to rest and take it easy.  Grateful to be as mobile as I am and basically not hurt badly!  I met a handful of interesting folks at Valley View and saw MUCH wildlife.  A pair of grey squirrels were foraging near one of the pools, which I dug.  There were mule deer everywhere that seemed quite used to the people.  It's such a nice spot!

I've been able to book a few gigs back in OH, though none on the way back or in the general region yet.  It'll be good to see family and friends, swap things out of storage, see my DR and then head back to CO.  I can't stress enough the need to stay out West.

Back in Colorado Springs....

I'm already happy I'm back in Colorado Springs with friends.  After the last few weeks of being in places that didn't really suit me, then getting sick on top of killer allergies, it's a welcome relief here.


My last few shows in New Mexico were a lot of fun and there were some images that came in after my last post, so I felt I needed to share some of them now. 


The next images are from Burlesque Noir's Dangerous Show on March 28, 2015 at Launchpad in Albuquerque, NM.

Images courtesy of Max Woltman Photography.
Facebook Page for Max Woltman Photography:
https://www.facebook.com/maxwoltmanphotography?fref=ts

the FOX

Kitsune tails and all...

Lady Justice

attempting to be "good bedfellow" with the money snake

who can only be slaughtered in the end

But there were more than a few photographers present, so here are some other shots!


Photos courtesy of Match Stickmon.
Facebook Page for Match: 
https://www.facebook.com/match.stickmon?fref=ts

the FOX

image by Match Stickmon

the kill shake

a last tease.

Justice is blind... and gets a helping hand taking her place

Lady Justice and the snake's first bite...

More images courtesy of Evil Elvis Photography.
Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/EvilElvisPhotography?fref=ts

Blind Justice

getting ready to reveal that leg...

I also have some good FOX video footage that I have edited from this show - video courtesy of Mega Ultra Studios.
Facebook Page for Mega Ultra Studios:
https://www.facebook.com/MegaUltraPro?fref=ts

The FOX:

The second show at Launchpad the next weekend produced some fine images as well! 

Here is the Facebook gallery that producer Kelly Fernandez posted of images from Paris A GoGo Burlesque Revue's Labyrinth into Graceland show - photos courtesy of Aaron Sweet:
https://www.facebook.com/kelly.fernandez1/media_set?set=a.10204597032818599.1073741834.1017751683&type=1&pnref=story 




And now on to current events....

I'm getting ready for my last show that I have booked.  I've not been seeking gigs so that I can be available to get a "real job" as soon as possible.  There are STILL 2 festival notifications up in the air for CO and PA, but I am not counting them until I hear an acceptance or denial.  I've had the first job interview in more than 10 years earlier this week, which was nerve wracking.  I'm not too hopeful on hearing back on that one and have many more to send off resumes for this weekend.  I'm still hoping to get a workamper position someplace that I will like and at which I can properly perform the duties required. I haven't been out working with the public in so long that I'm not sure if I can even do it or for how long or any other details, but I have no option but to try.  I've gotten a few calls from the ad I placed in workamper, but so far they are in areas that I don't think are going to work well for me.  These are very stressful days.

OK so back to the fun ideas!  The show next Saturday is at the Zodiac Venue & Bar next to The Green Line Grill.  I love these folks so am really glad to be back again!  The show producer Echo is an excellent friend and fellow performer as well as being a pleasure to be around. If you need to book some excellent entertainment or require unsurpassed stylist assistance, I highly suggest my friend Echo:
Facebook Page:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100007947098773&fref=ts

If you're in the area please come see us! I'll be vending during the show and performing my Torchwood tribute number near the end of the show.
Facebook Event Page:
https://www.facebook.com/events/784714661613221/?ref=3&ref_newsfeed_story_type=regular

And after this show... who knows eh?  My immediate plans are to stay in this region and see about a job nearby.  The only thing I am sure of right now is that I must stay on the quest for a job.  I'm not sure where it is or when it will take me away. I'd love to know soon and just get on with it.  The dream job at the store in Jerome may call for me one day... but I feel it's not now and I must wait for it.

New Mexico

So I left Phoenix in a rather downtrodden state of mind.  I stayed a little less than a week this time, as my hopeful plans fell through.  In reality, it ended up that I didn't need to make the trip out of the way at all.  But it WAS good to visit with my friends Aida and Tom again. 

And while there, I finally started up my Etsy shop for The Traveling Showgirl.  
Link to my Etsy Shop which is still in its infancy stage:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheTravelingShowgirl?ref=hdr_shop_menu


When I rolled outta town I was determined to get away from the big city, be in nature and get away from the majority of the people.

I looked at the road map and decided to go a route that took me in the direction I needed to go but a lesser traveled path that lead to Faywood Hot Springs, NM. 
Web Site for Faywood:
http://www.faywood.com/
They had a hiring sign up so when I drove up I asked about it.  I was going to follow up on that but found out over night that the dust and the mesquite plants in the region just kicked my allergy ass too much.  I had a headache after a few hours from the mesquite alone, so it's not a place I could call home sadly... nice as it is!  I was tickled to find about a week later this video that my friends from Isis Queen from the Barb Wire Dolls had made while at Faywood!  

Isis Queen of Barb Wire Dolls gives a tour of 

Faywood Hot Springs

Next I ended up in Gila National Forest at the suggestion of Aida.  It was a long, winding drive through many narrow roads and it took a lot longer than I originally figured it would.  But as you can see by the videos I shot, I think it was worth it.  

I hiked to a natural hot springs off the river which forced me to cross a river a few times. That in itself was VERY challenging for me... with the no swimming and all that. But I'm happy to say I did it.  I didn't end up staying too long in the springs though as the light was growing long and the trail back was not something I wished to undertake in the dark... or alone it turns out.  There was a family I'd seen in the parking lot before the hike.  I kind of followed them to the springs since I didn't really know where I was going exactly and we all soaked together.  They were a very nice bunch of 3 out exploring the Silver City region. When they left the springs, so did I.  I believe I could have managed on my own, but honestly I felt better with them there with the water crossings.  But this time I left my gym shoes ON!  They are still very muddy but at least they dried in a few days... ha!


I dry camped at a site I'd found earlier on my way to the springs hike.  It was fairly quiet though there were a few others camped there as well.  The climate was much cooler for the higher elevation, so soon as the sun went down it got downright cold.  I was in fur hat and had a long fur coat covering my fur blanket... and was still cold.  Nothing like a severe change in temps from the sweltering, dry heat of Phoenix eh?!  


I headed to see the Cliff Dwelling ruins later than intended, but I did make it so that is all that really matters.
FB Page for Gila Cliff Dwellings:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Gila-Cliff-Dwellings-National-Monument/153184661361723


I documented the trip save for a few chats with volunteer rangers up at the ruins themselves. 

I didn't want to put anyone on the spot by just showing up with my camera rolling.  I talked to two nice rangers, the second named George.  When he saw me, he gave me the strangest look... and I couldn't figure out what was wrong, or why he was confused by me. Then he asked if I was Marie.  Apparently, I am a look a like for a good friend of his who doesn't even live in the country... hence his confusion at seeing me appear all of a sudden.  It sparked a good conversation and he showed me some special things that you only normally see if you take a proper tour.  I felt very special just being there but to have such a nice meeting made it even better... so I at least took a pic with him for posterity's sake.  

Talking with George, one of the volunteers at The Gila Cliff Dwellings

the stairs leading up into one of the bigger dwelling areas...

at the top of the stairs and moving forward...

and then looking down to your right....

one of a few informational placards....

and another.

 ...then this little pretty butterfly was feasting on fresh pollen on the walk back.

After the hike, I stopped at the the Gila Hot Springs Campground where I could plug into electric and hit another local spring nearby that night.  Ah... a shower too!!  Quite the luxury these days!



I had no cell phone signal at all for two days, so when I did reach the edge of the park lands I had several messages.  One of them was a follow up to my application at Riverbend Hot Springs in Truth or Consequence, NM.  
Riverbend Web Site:
http://www.riverbendhotsprings.com/
I was to stop there that afternoon and was quite rushed to press on and meet them. As it turns out, it wasn't the right spot for me after all as they have a resident cat AND are doing some renovation/expansion which involves new building materials that I can't be around for long.  But they are very nice there and the manager gave me a free soak for making time to stop and meet them... so that was nice.  SO hot though!! Turns out I'm more of a mountain springs girl at heart.  



Then I was headed to my immediate, final destination of Albuquerque.  It was a town that I had only previously driven through en route to other places, so this was my first chance to explore it a bit.  It was a bit cooler than Phoenix had been but I was again in the desert valley... and I didn't feel too well for it.  I had much last minute costume repair and updating to do so was busy the whole day Saturday leading up to the show with Burlesque Noir.  
Burlesque Noir Web Site:
http://burlesquenoir.com/


The Launch Pad is a nice venue with a good sized stage and the show went very smoothly due to the professionalism present all around.  Fun was indeed had by all and the night simply rushed by! 
Launchpad Web Site:
http://www.launchpadrocks.com/



Afterwards a handful of us headed to the Rebelle household to chill and view the video of the show we just completed.  I left at 5:30am and was more than wiped out the next day from the night's adventures.  Big thanks to Holly Rebelle, David Rebelle and ALL the members of Burlesque Noir for having me!  It was a pleasure!




By the way, I can't let mention of the Launchpad go by without noting that my good friends from West Virginia - Karma To Burn - played there recently.  It's amusing that in the last few months we've separately performed on the same stages in different towns.  So in fond memory of the recent Denver, CO show, here is a snippet of their show - the 3 new songs on the set list:

Karma To Burn Web Site:
www.K2Burn.net


On a totally separate note, yesterday came the announcements of who got accepted or not into BHOF.  My Monarch routine sadly didn't get in.  My mistake I'm still working on getting over is that I should NOT have entered it for competition but simply to perform.  There were over 500 applicants and less than 20 competition spots.  Still, even knowing it was a true long shot, it still got me a bit down seeing the news.  

I'm currently awaiting results for the Colorado Burlesque Festival submissions too... so fingers crossed they want pro butterfly, burlesque style activism at their event! The Pennsylvania Burlesque Festival notifications are yet to come out but should be coming soon.  I have chosen to NOT apply for more festivals or actively try to book gigs in lieu of finding "real" work that will regularly pay bills.




At the moment, I am killing time just outside of town where I can park for 3 days without being asked to move I'm told... it's kind of a busy stop though, with lots of other people.  But beggars, and believe me I am a broke bitch, can't be choosers.  I'm trying to live cheaply for a few days until the show this Saturday which is again at the Launch Pad funnily enough.  This time I play with Paris A Go-Go Burlesque Revue on April 4th so if you're in the region please stop and say hello!

Event Page on FB:
https://www.facebook.com/events/1560120114237155/?ref=22&feed_story_type=22





My next stop is Colorado!!  Which makes me happy for many reasons.  

I will meander over mountains and through Pagosa Springs as I have a job interview at The Springs Resort! I just got the call today and am hopeful it might be something right for me... we'll see!
The Springs Web Site:
 http://pagosahotsprings.reachlocal.net/?utm_source=ReachLocal&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=HotSprings


After that brief visit, I'll be working my way towards Colorado Springs where I have my last booked show of the moment with the lovely Echo at the Zodiac Venue & Bar!

Event Page on FB:
https://www.facebook.com/events/784714661613221/?ref=22&source=22 
Zodiac FB Page:
https://www.facebook.com/zodiacbar?fref=ts


I can't wait to see all my new friends there again!  I'll be working a vending table until I do my Captain Jack Harkness/Torchwood tribute number near the end of the show. I have the goods that I have made for sale but also lovely, sparkly jewelry my sister Jeanette has crafted (I'm kind of a traveling sales girl... but I'm not very good at it yet/so far).  I'm hoping to have a link to her new Etsy Shop to share with you all SOON!