FUN – Page 2 – Girl Who Would be KING on Life, Style and INSPIRATION.

Laurent Pascal Studio

My friends and I were invited to the opening of the Laurent Pascal Studio in Palm Desert last week. We had so much fun meeting new people over delicious appies provided by Lulu Catering and wine/cocktails at the open bus bar. That alone was great, but to have a DJ, photo booth and a few professional photos on top of all that was unexpected and made the evening even more fun.

Laurent is a professional photographer who’s originally from France, and possibly because of his French upbringing, he has an appreciation for women; especially for those of us over 50. And we couldn’t be happier because nowadays, being over 50 (or 60, 70 and beyond) can be quite fabulous because as women age, we tend to step into our power. It’s unfortunate that we have to wait this long for it to happen, but we do get wiser with age so that’s a plus.

As Laurent says “there has never been a better time in history to be a woman over 50! Let’s celebrate that beauty doesn’t diminish with age.” I couldn’t agree more!

So his special portrait series called 50 over 50 is a unique one-of-a-kind photo shoot experience which is basically an exciting, pampering, indulgent adventure, custom tailored and focused on YOU!

Every one of us is unique, so why not share that? We all have different shapes and sizes, different tastes, backgrounds and views on life. Laurent has captured them all.

As he explains on his website: he asks each woman to think about how we want to be captured. It’s about so much more than just taking pretty pictures. He and his team hope that the experience provides an opportunity for women to reconnect with themselves and see the beauty and spirit the way others already see us. They take the every-day woman and offer an unforgettable celebrity-style, magazine photo shoot.

What’s new and really great too as that Laurent is now starting to shoot people and their pets.

**Tammy** with her two Bichons **Angel & Brad**. Bailey at the bottom belongs to another friend and, not wanting to be left out, got out of his collar and jumped in at the right moment.

We were just fooling around at the start. I was about to sit in the middle but Layla took that spot away from me. Some want to be front and centre.

I forgot how much fun photo booths can be.

This photo brings me joy and makes me laugh. We’re just happy that the photo booth didn’t tumble over as it was shaking when Tammy tried to assemble herself with 3 fluffy friends.

To Book:

https://laurentpascal.studio

And as you can see; women over 50 and beyond, can be quite silly. Proving that women everywhere just want to have fun

FUN

Modernism Week Vintage Trailer Show

Get a glimpse of what it’s like to travel like a stylish vagabond.

Channel your inner wanderlust spirit.

I had a wonderful time wandering around this weekend-long event of showcase trailers, displayed on an empty lot in downtown Palm Springs.

This curated ticketed show has always been a hit during Modernism Week. It’s an amazing assortment of vintage trailers from all across the country with unique history, significance and style. I’ll let the rest of the photos speak for themselves. You’ll see some of the interiors too.

Life is about accepting the challenges along the way, choosing to keep moving

forward, and savoring the journey. Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart

Life is a daring adventure towards an unknown future. Its beauty depends on how much you enjoy the journey. – Debasish Mridha

So Enjoy it!

Photos: d. king

FUN

The ART of IMPROV: Saturday Night Laughs

We had an awesome evening last night with the Comedy Department. It was a special Halloween themed night watching improvised performances by seasoned comedians. Plus they handed out candy to their SOLD-OUT audience.

These THEATRE SPORTS & SECOND CITY alumni know that the revival of live Comedy is more welcome than ever before. Making people laugh is a full-time job for them. But it doesn’t come across as a job – as they seem to really enjoy what they do while interacting with the audience.

And they do this in another Vancouver little hidden gem of a night club. Located in an entryway corner of the Park Pub on Davie Street by gorgeous English Bay in the West End. I had no idea it was there since they’ve only been in this location since May. Sidenote: the menu is very good too which is a big plus.

These days you’d have to live in a cave to not be aware of all the tremendous chaos that’s going on in the outside world so if we can fill a few hours with laughter and connection it makes our little world a whole lot better.

The Comedy Department has quickly become the new standard of professional comedy in Vancouver at The Show Cellar with hilarious weekly shows from start to finish. Audiences have come to expect non-stop, fast-paced hilarity and unexpected twists based on audience suggestions, and a uniquely interactive experience that continually receives 5-star reviews on Google and TripAdvisor.

Founded by veteran comedy performers, Denise Jones and David Milchard in 2021.

Photo: Denise Jones and David Milchard, photo by Farrah Aviva

After decades of experience doing live improv comedy shows, performing alongside some of the best comedic giants in North America, Denise and David realized they wanted to make comedy their full-time job and started The Comedy Department. They also craft custom comedy entertainment for corporate galas and special events and bring the improv mindset to the workplace fostering cultures of communication and collaboration.

Comedy Department Co-Creator and Performer, David Milchard has been bringing laughs for 25 years and his passion for it still burns brightly. “During the pandemic I realized something: I can’t live without improv and live shows. And I believe most people underestimate how impactful improv can be. The improv mindset is a powerful tool for communication, connection and growth and I’m driven to help our communities experience the benefits of it.”

It’s with that in mind that the Comedy Department is expanding into improv classes. The Comedy Department is excited to announce upcoming comedy classes designed for everyone, from beginners to seasoned performers. Their experienced instructors will guide students through the art of improv and comedic storytelling. These classes are designed to enhance communication skills, build confidence and to develop the ability to just live and respond in the present moment.

ABOUT DENISE JONES

Denise Jones is a Leo-nominated film and tv actor and Canadian Comedy Award winning performer. She is the former Artistic Director of the Improv Centre where she co created and directed smash hit shows to sold out crowds. She has performed in thousands of shows all over the globe with Second City Theatricals, the critically acclaimed Comic Strippers, Princess and Crystal Cruiselines and alongside legends like Colin Mochrie and Ryan Stiles. She is also a member of the teaching faculty of Vancouver Film School’s Comedy Project. You’ve seen her on film and tv in projects like Preggoland with James Caan and the BFG, directed by Steven Spielberg.

ABOUT DAVID MILCHARD

David Milchard is an award-winning actor, writer, director, producer, comedian, improviser, and digital creator. A Second City and Vancouver TheatreSports League alumni, he’s performed in comedy festivals across North America including Just For Laughs, Bumbershoot, and the Chicago Improv Festival. A member of the critically acclaimed international hit touring show the Comic Strippers (Canadian Comedy Award Winner) you’ve seen him on Altered Carbon, Psych, Girlfriend’s Guide to Divorce, Fringe, The Flash, Supernatural, Robert Redford’s The Company You Keep and Tim Burton’s Big Eyes. David, co-creator of the award-winning viral web series, Convos With My 2-Year-Old on YouTube (125 million plus views). David produced Corner Office (2020 Tribeca Film Festival starring Jon Ham and Danny Pudi and directed the feature film F**king Idiots (2020 VIFF /Montreal Independent Film Festival).

Now offering two time slots (at 7:30PM and 9:30 PM) recurring weekly on Saturdays following. Get ready to bring big laughs to your next corporate special event or into your coming weekend! The Comedy Department

Photos: d. king

FUN

Thrills, Chills & Cocktails

Always a winning combination don’t you think?

Such was our evening last night at the opening of “THE SHINE.”

Presented by “THE BEAUMONT STUDIOS ARTS SOCIETY“ which aims to advance the public’s knowledge and interest in the Vancouver art scene through participation in events and artistic exhibitions.

“THE SHINE” is described as a Stephen King themed burlesque and cocktail bonanza. I cannot say for sure which part I found most intriguing as it was all so well put together.

It was my first time at the studios so I had nothing to compare it to, and no expectations – which turned out to be a big surprise in a gorey meets glam kind of way. Lots of twists and turns (literally) in a pre-Halloween scary celebration of some of the “King of Horrors” most iconic figures from “THE SHINING,” “CARRIE,” and “MISERY” – three of my personal favourite creepy movies of all time.

The evening started with a lineup outside the studios before being let in. My first thought was this might turn out to be a bit of a let down. But thankfully it turned out to be the opposite.

Once inside, we were greeted by the infamous Annie Wilkes character from “MISERY” (played by Kathy Bates in the movie) handing out two drink tickets while the novelist character of Paul Sheldon (played by James Caan in the movie) is typing away frantically at an old fashioned type writer. Do you remember this line from the movie –“God came to me last night and told me your purpose for being here. I am going to help you write a new book” – because Wilkes didn’t like the ending of his latest book. Still gives me the creeps.

Then we were led into the first themed room (of three) to get our first cocktail served up by a clown who dropped a bit of blood on top for colour. And it went on from there. A little burlesque, another cocktail served up by Lloyd, the iconic bartender from “THE SHINING,” the eerie twins from the Overlook Hotel did a twisty-turned cirque-like performance, Jack Torrence (the Jack Nicholson character) makes a vaudevillian and villainous appearance, and finally; the prom scene from “CARRIE” including that bloody pail.
Don’t want to give too much away because this extravaganza is on until October 27^th. If you reside in or around Vancouver you should really try to get a ticket for something unique, refreshing, campy and utterly spellbinding. The talented group really outdid themselves. Fab, Fun, Entertainment.

A Bit About the Beaumont:

This place exists to inspire and engage artists, designers, and creative small business owners with space, events and opportunities to work together, play together, share, learn, create and produce art and artistic projects and engage with the community around it. It is a place for the public to engage with art, learn from our artist community and appreciate creativity for what it brings to our lives.

The Beaumont was established in 2004 by artist Jude Kusnierz, as an open and supportive environment for a wide variety of creative professionals. Being a full-time professional artist for over a decade, Jude’s goal was to create a unique environment where artists, like herself, could work in a beautiful, safe, reasonably priced, positive and upbeat environment, a place that would offer opportunity for growth, mentoring and cross-pollination of ideas and business.

Photos: d. king

Tickets for upcoming events:

https://thebeaumontstudios.com/

FUN

Who’s Laughing in 2023?

Lol – We are! And it feels so good. And at uncertain times such as this, and in general; we could all use a good belly laugh. So I went Underground.

I went to Underground Comedy club last Friday; a perfect name for a club that’s located underground. and enjoyed two hours of non-stop laughter with my new friend Hayley and her funny friends. I met Hayley in Montreal where she was a bridesmaid at my cousins wedding. Bonus: she lives in Vancouver and works part time as an actress and comedian (do we know anyone who works full-time in either of these fields?). Back in Vancouver we ended up getting together at my place along with my sister and laughed non-stop. She’s hilarious.

Remember laughing all the time as a kid? As adults we’ve become more serious and laugh a lot less. But laughter is healthy for our immune systems. You can add years to your life and improve your emotional health just by seeking out more opportunities for humour. There’s a lot of scientific research to back this up, but the simple fact is that when you laugh (and even smile) you release endorphins, which have many positive physical effects. It helps to lighten up a bit, even if just for a few hours.

Hayley is a doll who can get away with being a bit raunchy in her act.

Hayley emcees up and coming comedians trying to perfect their material at Underground Comedy in Gastown from 7-9 pm every Friday. A professional show where the cities best comedians drop in to perfect their sets starts at 9:00 pm. Acts from Netflix, CBC, Just for Laughs, Canada’s Got Talent, HBO, etc. Some of the amateurs are working their way up to pro. The dimly lit place was jam packed but we were able to get a seat and a decent glass of wine.

I have to give these people credit because it takes guts to get up there and put yourself out there and be wide open to criticism. Timing is very important and we’re a tough crowd to please. All the best comedians started somewhere. I remember seeing Howie Mandell at Yuk Yuk’s in Montreal when he was just starting out. He had a gift and obviously the makings of a star.

If you want to check out this small but classy and quaint venue located in the heart of Downtown Vancouver here is the link:

It’s directly downstairs (underground) from **rosette** – a British-inspired Pub.

For more info: https://www.ugcomedy.com/

When was the last time you went to a comedy club? Or; when was the last time you really laughed?

FUN

Pet-a-Palooza – Day of the Dog

My two canines took me to this huge event in Vancouver’s hip Yaletown district yesterday, and it made me reflect on how canines are replacing children in the lives of many.
Also; how couples who’ve become empty nesters can gain companionship, love and affection from having a pet. In this case; specifically a dog. Judging by the attractions, booths and tents purposely laid out for dogs and their owners, it is clear that it has become a big business too.

I don’t think dogs want to run on a treadmill or get dressed up in a superhero costume as much as their owner wants them to.

However, having said this, my two got leid right after getting blessed under one of the tents. Then we went for lunch.

My blessed pair, but I’m even more blessed to have them.

Treadmill for dogs – which could come in handy when the weather is really crappy – and provided you have space.

If you were to choose between having a kid or getting a pet, there are some pros and cons. Kids are fine at first but they can be unpredictable. Pets prefer predictability.

Let’s look at the CONS: pets don’t last as long, like kids, you can’t depend on them either to look after you when you get old and dogs need walks for frequent bathroom breaks.

The PROS: pets provide a purpose without the sacrifices required for raising a baby. No need for changing diapers in the early stages, they stay affectionate much longer than kids do, they’re unselfish, need minimal supervision, aren’t always on their phones, you don’t have to pay to send them to University or for weddings, they eat less, don’t do drugs and never talk back.

One of the new cars where the air conditioning automatically gets turned on when it gets too hot outside.

This is Diesel. He won the “***running of the bulldogs***” contest but I’m not sure whether he’s French or English.

Pawpsicle anyone?

Photos: d. king

https://www.petapaloozawest.com/2023-attractions-yvr

FUN

Montreal Monday Mood

A splattering of photos from our joie de vivre trip in Montreal.

Pre-wedding celebration at the home of the bride and groom – Shanny & Pete.

My siblings and I attended the weddings (plural because our gorgeous Irish/Italian cousin Shanny married a very nice Indian man named Puneet (or Pete as we call him) so there was first a modern Indian style wedding at the Hilton followed by a more traditional wedding at Jardin Royalmount the following day. Jardin is a sophisticated outdoor/indoor venue for hosting private events and special occasions for hundreds of guests. The whole setup is quite beautiful. Prior to these two weddings there was a private party at their lovely home situated across from a lake for close friends and family members.

After these celebratory events we spent a couple nights in the Laurentians at my cousin John’s house in Estérel on the lake. It was amazing. I loved re-visiting the quaint little village of Saint-Sauveur for all the shops and bakeries. I got to also re connect with an old friend at her country home and lastly, my childhood bestie over dinner on my last night there at the Rib ‘n Reef; a Montreal favourite steakhouse. We reminisced about the past, caught up on the present and talked about what the future may hold. I can’t describe how wonderful it was seeing her after so many years. All I can say is that if you’re truly connected with someone, the time and distance doesn’t matter when you meet up again. You just pick up where you last left off. But back to the reason we went to Montreal in the first place….

The catered event had various food tables with all kinds of seafood including lobster rolls, a pizza bar and bartenders hired from the Ritz Carlton no less (the iconic hotel where Elizabeth Taylor married Richard Burton) serving up any kind of cocktail you can imagine. Also a DJ. So so much fun.

Lisa getting henna on her hand. I did the same. Photo: d. king

Shanny & Pete with her dad John and his *Fiancée* Stephanie. Photo: d. king

Stephanie + Tyaa (Shanny’s sister). Photo: d. king

Indian Buffet (one of several tables with amazing delicious delicacies). Photo: d. king

With Lisa, Stephanie, cousin Liz + Lucia (who married our uncle Chuck and now lives in Florida)

Stephanie + John (Lucia + cousin Frankie behind them) Photo: d. king

The celebrated couple Pete and Shanny. Photo: d. king

More photos and stories to follow including Old Montreal, Barbie Expo and Canada’s most luxurious day spa.

FUN

Summer Breeze

Summer doesn’t last forever so we soak up the remaining sunshine while we can. Ideally with no pressure and no major plans.

My appetite for movies is like my appetite for food – a little bit of this; a little bit of that but with variety. This summer I’ve watched more movies in theatres than any other I can remember in recent history. All the films I’ve seen were good for different reasons. However they all have one thing in common; they’re all about impossible missions achieved by an action hero and a supporting team.

Mission Impossible (part one) for sheer edge of your seat action entertainment, special effects and because Tom Cruise is so good in it. I like his message at the start of the film. He appears genuine in wanting to get people back to big screen movie houses. I can see why. This one is definitely meant to be seen on the biggest screen possible.

Sound of Freedom, based on a true story, is an excellent film with a powerful message. It’s been sweeping the box office. It’s unfortunately a real life under the radar drama about ruthless child traffickers and a dangerous mission to save a child in the Colombian jungle with time running out. It is not without controversy but then again; what movie isn’t these days? If Barbie has endured some controversy, you can only imagine what this can mean. Anyway, this film sheds a light on a delicate subject most of us don’t give much or any thought to.

An interesting fact is that this film was finished in early 2018, was bought by Fox, but then when Disney acquired Fox it immediately shelved the film. Right away, that gave the movie a kind of forbidden, subversive appeal. Eventually, the distribution rights were sold to Angel Studios, a company in Utah that produced the historical drama The Chosen. Since Sound of Freedom started showing in theaters, some viewers have alleged instances of sabotage intended to prevent them from seeing the film. Good luck with that! Before the end of this month Sound of Freedom broke $100 million in revenue. It’s not as graphic as one might think given the story line as the film maker took careful precaution so as not to incite pedophiles – thank goodness for that. We got the gist of it anyway and it’s not a feel-good movie but it brings awareness to what went on and what’s been going on behind closed doors and open borders for a long time. It’s nothing new but this movie brings attention to an uncomfortable matter.

The real Mission Impossible was to get the atom bomb before the Germans did. My only complaint about Oppenheimer is that it could have been shorter in length. I didn’t expect to like this historical movie as much as I did; but I did – especially in 70mm. It’s not so much about the making of the atom bomb as it is about the man behind the movie title himself. Everything about this film is well executed; the story (the book was about 800 pages long – no wonder the movie is 3 hours!), the directing, the acting, the cinematography, sound and editing. I think it covered all Oscar worthy bases. I suspect it will win at least one award.

Last but not least (okay, maybe least) is Barbie. No; I was not going to miss this movie especially after seeing the trailer. Of course I went with a few like-minded ex Barbie playing women friends and not all of us were wearing pink and yes; it was all women in the audience. There might’ve been a few Kens but if so I didn’t notice any. All I can say is that it was just sheer guilty-pleasure entertaining fun. I think the casting was spot-on – I mean how can you go wrong with Margot Robbie playing Barbie and Ryan Gosling (with a six-pack that didn’t go unnoticed) playing Ken. I’m over everyone making such a big deal about this movie and the messages it represents. Take it for what it is everyone – just a very cute movie with awesome sets and a message that by now should not be something new. Yawn!

As for the rest of the summer, I’m off to Montreal for a family wedding (more on that later) and for my siblings and me – somewhat of a family/friends reunion. It will be a bittersweet trip as the last time we were all there was along with my late husband to celebrate our auntie Ada (our mom’s only sister) with a surprise 80th on a Tiki boat in the Laurentians. She’s since passed as has our uncle Chuck (our mom’s only brother) from a shockingly unexpected heart attack last year. His wife will join us. Instead of being told we should “move on” after a tragedy or death, I prefer to instead move forward because moving on just doesn’t seem appropriate.

Other things I’ve started this summer was a book club over breakfast with a close friend (we’re starting our second book), getting another dog and heading up a monthly cocktail club to explore some new and old Vancouver establishments. Simple pleasures at this time is what I like best. No apologies.

How about you? I hope your summer is going well and I’ll be back here sometime soon. Enjoy! XO

FUN

Shania Twain: “Queen of Me” Concert Tour

Let’s go Girls!

This will give you an idea of **the fan base**. Photo: D. King

Can’t beat the energy of a crowd of crowd pleasers at an uplifting concert with an outstanding performer with a story to tell. Such was last night’s gathering of dressed up girls and the dazzling performance by one Shania Twain and company at her “Queen Of Me” Tour.”

It takes a village. Aside from the obvious fact that Shania is beautiful and extremely talented, she is surrounded by world class musicians and a stage production staff who set up what can best be described as a glittery Las Vegas style production. Not surprising, as she had a prior residency in Las Vegas.

Rock, Country, Country Rock and bridging the gap in between:

Twain received the Music Icon award at the 2022 People’s Choice Awards. As the top-selling female country pop artist of all time, Twain was honoured for her record-breaking career which has spanned over four decades. With enormous hits like “That Don’t Impress Me Much” and “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!,” Twain has expertly bridged the gap between country and pop music, leaving an everlasting impact on the music industry and pop culture.

Shania and Live Nation have announced that $1 of every ticket purchased to Shania’s “Queen Of Me” Tour will be donated to SKC. Established in 2010 by Shania Twain, SKC provides services that promote positive change in children’s lives in times of crises and economic hardship. SKC provides children with one-on-one consultations, academic support and group activities, as well as nutritious snacks and meal programs where needed, all while in the safe, confidence-building environment that is the Shania Kids Can Clubhouse. These children are learning the skills to cope with and overcome family hardships which, in turn, improves their ability to succeed in school. For more information about Shania Kids Can, please visit: www.shaniakidscan.com

Watch her Documentary: Shania was not without family hardship. Her life story and what it took for her to own her power and rise above adversity and despair is as heart breaking as it is compelling. She is so deserving of her fame and fortune. She works hard for the money. And she’s generous.

Photos: D. King

FUN

Canines & Caftans

What a perfect way to end a near perfect season in Palm Springs. A Margaritaville Yappy Hour to benefit Animal Samaritans complete with canines, caftans, cocktails, appies, music and water sprinklers surprise! Some pics: