30 November - Write an Original Song. En francais

For as much as I have been surrounded by music since I was a child, I have never had the courage to write a song. I would try my hand at poetry, but would become a bit uptight in letting my ideas flow when I knew the goal was to set words to a melody. I alone prevented any seed that may have had the chance to grow, to even be planted.

A few weeks ago, the sun was out, transforming my spirit and attitude. It served as my morning cup of joe. As I was driving, I was visually aware of gorgeous candids around me that should have been captured on film. And I heard a melody in my head that accompanied what I saw.

Fortunately with iPhone's "Voice Memo" application, I held onto that melody and started to hear more. Inspired by a period film featuring Edward Norton which I had recently seen, I wrote lyrics to match a somber tone. I could hear it in 3/4 time with a beautiful flamenco guitar accompaniment, a la Sting's "La Belle Dame Sans Regret." This is one of my husband's and my favorite songs. The last element that would complete my vision was if it were sung in French.

I visited my friend Patrick, who moved here from Nice, to help me translate the lyrics. I have a Minor Degree in French and had the fortune to resurrect and practice in Paris a few years ago. But I quickly forgot and the vernacular became quite rusty. Patrick spoke the words first, then I followed. (Apologies in advance for the gum.)

I then contacted an old friend, incredible flamenco guitarist Peter Baime. Peter studied in Spain with legendary gypsy guitarists Diego del Gastor and his nephew Paco del Gastor. Peter won an Emmy Award for one of his original documentary scores for PBS. He has toured all over the U.S., Puerto Rico, Europe, Canada and Mexico, and currently is a faculty member at two universities as well as the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music. He continues to work on special projects. It was my fortune and honor to collaborate with him on this project.

To document this collaboration, friend Shanel referred me to Amelia Coffaro. When I visited her site, viewed her candids and listened to her philosophy on capturing artists in their element, I knew I wanted her involved as well.

Lastly, as always, I phoned my trusted friend Jim Reith to engineer and produce. Peter suggested we record simultaneously and not on separate tracks to complement the nuances in the moment. This means we record the song in full each time and choose from the different takes. Anytime we made a mistake, we had to start over. We did change the ending from what I initially intended. Hesitations are noted in my delivery, but I will keep these imperfections in the recording as it holds authenticity of the moment.

What started as a relatively simple but fearful task of writing an original song, grew into a wonderful collaboration. In rehearsing with Peter, he added such interesting melodic changes just by suggesting I sing one half-step higher or lower in certain areas. His additional intricacies evoked emotion as I sang. And in working with Amelia, I gained a new friend. She added quite a personal element to the process. I typically only use one static photo, but in looking through what she captured, it behooved us all to use as many as we could. In this process, I also had to learn Mac's iMovie software. An unexpected piece in the puzzle, but a necessary and rewarding effort.

The progression of the project felt very natural. It always helps to have trusted talent as partners. Thank you to all involved.

For more information on Peter, please visit http://www.wcmusic.org/.

For more information on Amelia, please visit http://www.ameliacoffaro.com/.

For more information on Jim, please visit http://www.beathousemusic.com/.

23 November - Back to the Classics

Over the Thanksgiving holiday, I noticed my brother-in-law Bill had dropped Ayn Rand's The Fountainhead by the front door. We had been emailing each other over the past few months about his leisure reading as of late, not pertaining to newspapers nor trade publications on the auto industry. "This summer I took a departure from my typical business and leadership book binge and have gone back to the classics. I have read Hemmingway, Salinger, London, Huxley, Fitzgerald, and am currently mowing through Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina. Even returning to some old things can help you grow."

So very true. Bill is an incredibly intelligent and philanthropic person. To say he is a gem and that we are lucky to have him in our family is an understatement. The first time Bill really made an impression was the morning of my father's passing. We traveled as a family to take care of the funeral obligations. We were still in shock and were trying to order floral arrangements. For some reason, I recall confusion and frustration escalating in dealing with the clerk. Bill stepped in and took control. He was the only one among us who could. In seeing his command and nipping through nonsense at a very difficult time, I could tell he would be a good partner for my sister - a rock to find comfort in and build a foundation.

He heads the manufacturing division for a major auto manufacturer. He is well-traveled and knows metropolises like the back of his hand. In fact, it was crazy to see him in Tokyo several years ago, of all weekends and of all people. He was our guide. And behind the graduate degrees, family man and success, I was surprised to have learned of his quiet charity. When we would exchange names at Christmas, he would ask his Secret Santa to make a donation in his name. When we visited their home years ago, he was busy with a Junior Achievement group that he mentored through curriculum and business projects. He also built homes for Habitat for Humanity and served at the local church. These are things family members are probably still unaware of to this day. True humility looks for no applause. These little things I would hear about our quick-witted brother-in-law held him more dear to our family.

In our most recent corresponding, he inspired me to follow his lead. To read a classic. In going to the library, I was a bit sheepish to ask who some classic authors indeed were. But to my surprise, the two ladies as well had to consult files and lists to offer suggestions. The only one available was Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights. I was excited to begin. So much so, that I became mesmerized with even the Introduction by some Diane Johnson, the Biographical Note from Emily's sister Charlotte, then the Editor's Preface -- all parts I normally skip. I am not a very patient reader. The tale must grip me enough in the first chapter to hold me through the rest. So I was amused that I learned more about the author than I anticipated.

Emily was one of six children who moved to a village in Haworth, England in 1820. Her father was a reverend and their new parish home, Haworth Parsonage still stands to this day. The hills and moors of the land behind them is the backdrop of Wuthering Heights, a fictional gloomy estate. Emily's mother and two older sisters passed on due to illnesses. The remaining four children, Emily, Branwell, Charlotte and Anne all lived only until their early 30s, dying from alcoholism, tuberculosis and complications during pregnancy.

I did not realize Emily's sisters Charlotte and Anne were authors as well, penning Jayne Eyre and Agnes Grey under the names of Ellis and Acton Bell. Emily was the third brother, Currer. They were "brothers" for fear of judgment and stripped credibility simply because they were female. Unfortunately, Emily died a year after Wuthering Heights was published and was met with poor reviews.

In reading the book, I found myself confused at first knowing the author was a woman, penning under a male alias but with feminine insights. Was it believable at that time? Critics said no. Some of the thoughts were also controversial and a bit edgy. I kept a flowchart to keep the characters, respective ancestries and roles in order. The style of writing compelled and engaged the reader, though staying engaged was necessary in order to understand everything in context. I also noticed interesting details like the overuse of colons within one sentence. As a lover of grammar, I did not know this was "legal." I enjoyed Bronte's way of capturing little nuances in the relationship dynamics as well. The storyline itself was a bit challenging to follow. The love that developed between the orphan Heathcliff and Catherine, the daughter of the family who raised him, was rich and complicated. Catherine married another, Edgar Linton, for advancement in society, though she loved Heathcliff. When she passed away, Heathcliff went mad. His growing vindictiveness for all who wronged him juxtaposed with his love for Catherine was...complicated, e.g. locking up Catherine's daughter to force her to marry his son in order to acquire the wealth of his arch enemy, Catherine's father. Oy.

It was interesting to imagine what life might have been like at that time -- everyday speak was proper; the writings were complicated, Shakespearian and poetic - all based on simple living and a finite amount of knowledge for that timeframe. Limited knowledge in what existed - travel, other cultures, medicine and technology that would have prolonged lives. But back then, death was just an accepted turn of events. Women's subservience in treatment, to the point of having to alias under a male counterpart in order to receive due judgment. The opposite of these are all privileges and freedoms we enjoy now. I contemplated on what were epic accomplishments for that time period versus what we take for granted. Truly times have changed; I wonder if we appreciate how far we have come. I, for one, need to be reminded of that.

Indeed, Bill, going back to old things can help us grow. Thank you.

16 November - Improv at Second City

My friend Jean speaks in a thousand different accents, impersonations and affectations. My favorite may very well be the articulate and hostile Puerto Rican. Jean is not shy to have a full conversation with me -- with accent and attitude -- in the middle of a salon, grocery store, car....
The first time I met her was working on friend Shanel Regier's fashion show years ago. I could tell she had an impeccable work ethic, not above any menial task, nor below any strategizing. She seemed serious. And humble. Dead ringer for Rachel Weisz, if you ask me. She articulates well her ideas but is not a "theorist." She rolls up her sleeves, gets down to the nitty gritty and accomplishes what she sets out to do. She does not talk about the talk about the talk, like most; she is a do-er. And it's rarely about her.

A straight shooter, Jean keeps her balance by singing her heart out at karaoke, and takes inventory by cleansing and spending a few days in solitude. An interior designer by day; an unabashed character and smart wit otherwise. She shared with me that acting was one of the possible directions on her list when choosing what to pursue for her college career. I thought Jean might be the perfect contender to join me at Second City's Improv class.

Her spontaneity in saying 'yes' took us to my old stomping grounds - Old Town, Chicago. When I worked here many moons ago, I remember watching Kamehachi move in across the street. It took the place of the former Blue Room, where my would-be husband and I would play in a trio upstairs. I would order my edamame and unagi roll, then eat my lunch at the school I volunteered at around the corner during my lunch hour. Driving around North and Wells resurrected forgotten and priceless memories...an unexpected gift that evening.

When my husband and buddy Chris suggested we take this drop-in class, I of course thought with an amenable ease, "Improv? Hysterical. Why not?" But driving down and now a few blocks away, Jean and I started to get anxious. We parked across the street at Treasure Island and walked to Second City's Training Center in Piper's Alley. Headed to class on the 4th floor, we met up with 15 other students from all different levels in acting. Our teacher Joe had us stand in a circle for our first warmup. It was called "Shootout." We learned everyone's names. As one name was called, that person ducked. The two people on either side had to be the first to shoot the other person out of the circle. Then the gap was closed.

We did three-line exercises between two people which focused on the starts of scenes and dialogue guidelines. And everyone had to do these exercises. We formed two lines, performed our scene, then switch to the opposite line so we had turns starting and reacting to the dialogues. The rules were to avoid questions and avoid focusing on the actual activity. One person started dialogue with any topic, the second person answered, the first finished the idea, the second person closed the scene with a nonverbal reaction.

Joe then added components to develop comfort level, reacting to environment, using emotion and reacting to your partner in a follow-up exercise called "Exploring the Silence." We continued with the formula of three-line exercises but were given an environment...bank, Starbucks, zoo, etc. We acted in silence for 30 seconds, being aware of our partner's actions and expressions. We found that we fed off each other to help shape the scene before any dialogue was inserted. We then added depth to the spoken story line - all in three-lines.

Another exercise was called "What Are You Doing?" This was quick-paced and gave us practice in being physical and speaking without worrying if we made sense. First person would start with an activity -- taking a shower, sweeping, roller skating, etc. The second person would ask at any time, "What Are You Doing?" First person would call out any activity OTHER than what s/he is doing, and the partner had to act it out. The next component added was that the activity had to start with the letters of the people next in line. For example, behind me were Terry and Mike, so my partner and I would call out tasks such as, "Training Monks!" These mini skits were hilarious, as one who had S and A yelled, "Selling Armpits!" leaving his partner perplexed but comedically carrying out the scene. Another added component was the receiver had to deliver a line of dialogue to accompany the random task.

In debriefing with this room of strangers who quickly became friends, we learned that silence is golden. If we sat and listened, watched, fed off one another's energy, it can affect our reactions, thought and expression. We learned to follow our instincts, as well as step out of our comfort zone. We found people to be funny without being funny, or having a sense of humor when they are naturally serious.

Jean and I did our own debriefing afterwards, over a nice late meal at Flo. In the aftermath, Jean shared, "As we were in one of the circle formations, I felt this pit in my stomach. For me the feeling was not of nausea but of anxious excitement – the urge to be involved and to perform. I began to shift my weight from one leg to the next until I was in an all out sway. I remember catching myself doing this and thought, 'I must look like an idiot.' Then I looked around the circle and about 10 others were making similar moves. This is a feeling that I have not sensed since I was performing on stage in High School and it was great to have that feeling back again. I forgot how much I love that adrenaline rush. I think the love of performance comes from within certain people and is a difficult thing to truly teach."

Couldn't have asked for a better partner to experience this with. Thanks, Jean.


Joe teaches at Second City and Columbia College. He is currently working on a project - writing a sketch every day for one year. This is based on his belief that there is no such thing as writer's block or not enough time to write. All 365 sketches will be produced June 3 thru June 10 at Strawdog Theater, Chicago. For more information, please visit, http://www.biteandsmile.blogspot.com/.

For more information on the class, please visit http://www.secondcity.com/.

9 November - Segway into Individuality

"Arrested Development" is one of our all time favorite shows. My husband lovingly gave me the full series a few years ago for my Christmas present...then he didn't see me for two days. I watched all episodes back to back - same pjs, same blanket, same couch. One of the most hilarious characters on the tele - across the board - is Gob. I belly laugh until I cackle and cry...his chicken dance while singing "ka ka ka ka kaw"; his whistling "s"'s from a broken tooth; his constant yearning for his father's approval; wearing a fake eyebrow on his cheek from hugging a father figure who has alopecia and... his mode of transportation? A Segway.

I always wondered how difficult it was to ride those motorized adult scooters. I also thought it was quite the humorous site to see Chicago police ride them around the city. My husband and I laughed in brainstorming a blog entry comparing a Harley, Vespa, then ultimately, the Segway. But a tad overambitious within a week.

I researched where I could even find one to try and was thrilled to find Chicago offered tours. 3-hour commitment? Why not? Time to make time. Since I love learning the origins of a city and its anthropology, what better way to learn, meet some kind folk and tool around? I tried recruiting my hilarious ad guru raconteur Kyle, but he kindly declined with a sardonic chuckle, "have fun with half of Gary, Indiana."

I found four different companies, and went with my gut - Chicago Segway Tour. The owner Demetris was quite responsive and seemed to run a tight ship. His instructors and guides, Joe, Brian and Scott were fun, respectful, informative and efficient. We met across Navy Pier at the Lake Point Tower building. There were about 12 of us and were taught the mechanics of the machine, equipped with computer and all.

I stepped up and started to giggle with my protective helmet on. Joe explained the Segway is controlled by the pressure or weight on your toes and heels. The handlebars only control turning left and right, not forward or backward. If you want to slow or stop, you simply lean back then center your body. And if you continue to lean back, you will go backwards. It seems extremely rudimentary but necessary to process, as there are no brakes and yet no standing still. If we find we are at the maximum speed of 12 mph, the computer will automatically tip the Segway back, causing it to stop. After 20 minutes of lessons and getting comfortable in the warehouse, we were ready to head out into the city - real streets, construction, bikes and people.

Within the two hours, we stopped at different points such as DuSable Harbor, the Art Institute of Chicago, Museum Campus (Shedd Aquarium, Soldier Field, Adler Planetarium and Field Museum), Buckingham Fountain, Queen's Landing, Millenium Park.... We learned interesting tidbits along the way. It inspired me to learn more about these places, so I researched them when I returned from my excursion.

In no particular order, morsels of trivia included... Lake Point Tower, whose previous residents included Tom Cruise, Halle Berry and NOT Oprah, is the only building east of Lake Shore Drive and is erected on stilts. Chicago has the highest population of Poles outside of Poland. The horrific Chicago Fire of 1871 ruined 2,000 acres of land in only two days, killing 300 people and leaving 1/3 of the population homeless. After the Fire, many of the debris and ash were pushed towards the lake, changing the shoreline from Michigan Avenue to east of the Buckingham Fountain to Queen's Landing. It was interesting to note that under all the land that we toured that day was based on debris from the historic and epic fire. Queen's Landing was named after Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip's visit to Chicago's International Trade Fair in 1959. It celebrated the city as an international seaport and was the first time British royalty came to Chicago. Buckingham Fountain was gifted to Chicago by Kate Buckingham. She dedicated it to her late brother, Clarence. It is modeled after the gorgeous Latona Basin at King Louis XIV's Palace of Versailles. The water represents Lake Michigan and the four sea horses represent the four states touching Lake Michigan. Lastly, an interesting art installation, The Agora, resonated with me a bit. It was a cluster of 9-foot tall sarcophagus-like iron sculptures. The agora in ancient Athens, was a gathering place or marketplace where the artist contends spawned art, philosophy and theater. These sculptures are headless and armless bodies facing different directions. The artist says, "Every crowd is like a headless organism."

Based on the artist's childhood and history, I believe this particular installation had underlying tones with war in mind. She witnessed tragic events as a child and refers to standing alone and facing the world within these headless towering sculptures.

But I process her statement: every crowd is like a headless organism. In a country where freedom of speech, expression and thought is an emphatic part of our culture, do we act like a headless organism when acting as one? Mindless? Is that a good or bad thing? I guess it depends on what the "act" might be. I sure hope that these years of supposed progress in creating, in technology, in stepping outside our own convictions to seek an open mind is not forgotten if our natural, subconscious inclination is to allow an external vacuum to navigate what we believe. That the introduction and evolution of what is supposed "truth" in objectivity, whether it be journalism or non-fiction anthology, has become null and caves to social dynamic waves that come and go with ebb and flow. Then there are people who scream their individuality, demanding attention for being unique. They try so hard to stand apart and guard their extraordinary mark in the world...just...like...the next....person. Perhaps not so unique.

Huh. Interesting installation to say the least. Little did I know I would have some philosophical inner monologue regarding the rhythm of our society and its social dynamics from riding on a Segway. But as art is and as art does, it evokes thought and is open to any individual's interpretation. Mine was simply that these randomly positioned headless and armless bodies represent the global society. The faces, shells and words may not necessarily matter. Body position, direction, intention and action is what drives the truth within in individual and a group. And we may try to maintain our individuality, but also look to each other for inspiration, which then creates the next idea. To me, this cluster of bodies includes many different souls that think on their own but co-exist, hopefully coming together when needed.

Altruistic, I know, but everything, including perspective, is a choice...as I ride away in a cluster of Segways headed in the same direction.

For more information, please visit http://www.chicagosegwaytour.com/.

26 October - Ummm...Did You Say 'Poll' or 'Pole' Dancing?

I have known my dear friend Mindy since the first grade. She was the kickball champ. The athlete. The captain of the cheerleading squad. Contrary to popular belief, possibly the most painfully shy person of the school. As a woman, she had been through several trials of anguish as well as being a rock for those around her over the past 15 years. And through her incredible care for her husband, parents and children, maintaining their insane schedules, her community service and a few major physical problems, there has never been a complaint. Quite the contrary -- she typically recounts each new "story" with a laugh. Her sense of humor and adventurous spirit coupled with her ability to lend a compassionate ear in the middle of a pub... these are the traits that attract many. Her humility and incredible work ethic not only commit her to seeing things through, but she picks up the pieces for a stranger and helps him rebuild. She befriended a woman living in a hurtful relationship and with little means. Mindy mentioned in passing that she dropped off bags of groceries on her doorstep anonymously. Till this day, none of our friends even knew. Proof in wanting nothing in return. On the outside, one might see her life as intact and one to be aspired. And it is. But only because it is well-deserved.

I wanted to see Mindy do something for herself. Part of this year's journey is to inspire or help others to try something they might not try on their own. When I asked Mindy to list a few things, she came back with one that caught me offguard. Knowing her hilarious and intrepid nature, I processed the suggestion and sputtered, "'Poll' dancing? or 'pole' dancing?" Oy. The first thought that came to mind: Taboo. Kinda made me reach for the Purell and want to take a shower. Second thought: I'll blog about HER.

I realized it had been nine months since I asked her that question. It was time to pull the trigger. As I thought about it, I wondered what made me shy or embarrassed to try? Am I abandoning my own philosophy of experiential living? Why should I judge without having any knowledge base? I asked what inspired Mindy to think of this of all things. She simply said she remembered seeing a woman in excellent shape and asked what she did as a workout. Good thing our triathlete friend Yvette and her sister were game too. Crazy Yvette, who takes us all back to our college days, looked at me and said one word: GiggleFest.

In researching this potential bonding experience, my friend Lisa recommended Sheila Kelly's "S Factor" in Chicago. Looking at the site, it actually seemed...professional. The attire was typical yoga or workout clothes. We arrived at the studio and found the sitting room full of students. It was relatively quiet as ladies filled out paperwork and kept to themselves. None of us knew what to expect.

Our instructor, this tiny beautiful woman whose sweet voice and respectful demeanor, made us laugh and feel comfortable straightaway. Monique led us into a room with 12 pilates mats laid in a circle, low red lights and no mirrors. "This is a non-judgmental facility, ladies." She explained that we as women tend to critique and break ourselves down. There would be none of that here, thus, no mirrors. The purpose of this workout regimen is to empower. It was feminine. The "S", was not for Sexy or Stripper. It replicates the S curvature of the female form. These movements are circular and fluid versus the linear movements of regular cardio workouts... atypical to the curvaceous form.

Monique continued to explain how the founder, actress Sheila Kelly created the curriculum from her research on a role as a stripper. Because there was no formal training, she had to learn hands on. Noticing the cut physique of her "research subjects", she too began to see her body transform. After having children, Sheila wanted to get back into exercise, bought a pole and started dancing for herself for an hour each day. Friends began inquiring of her regimen, thus began her teaching.

As class began, we spent a good amount of time introducing ourselves and understanding what the class was about...its origin, everyone's names, what brought us here, feeling comfortable with one another. The warmup was about stretching and letting go, getting lost in ourselves. The slow movements and eyes closed were not sexual, but sensual...dare I say spiritual, and almost emotional. The first half of class is dedicated to building up the core and upper body strength. We learned movements like the "flirt", the "fiddler", the "cow" and "cat", and the "s-walk" of slowly dragging our toe and crossing the mid-line. We then learned our first pole trick, the "firefly", where we grabbed the pole, hooked one foot around, fell and let the other foot follow, keeping the knees open while we spun around the pole. It was more difficult than it looked. It was playful. And we laughed at ourselves like little girls and cheered the next lady on.

Lastly, our instructor danced for us. Wow. It really WAS dance. She incorporated some of the things we learned. The movements were slow and deliberate. She climbed up the pole with grace, ease and such fluidity, almost like a cat. Her movements were fluid as she spiraled downward like a ballerina in flight. It was lovely. At the close of class, we talked of what to expect in the following levels. Everything works at the individual's pace, where the learning curve is like a merry-go-round. We continue to work on what we learned while adding on and building our strength to the next level.

Monique shared with us "none of us [instructors] are strippers. I am a speech pathologist and work with children. I have my hair pulled back and glasses on. And this is my only workout regimen." It was important to note this. I realized I made some inappropriate assumptions - these ladies were professionals, just like the rest of us. These were accountants, moms, saleswomen, medically trained women, even an aerobic instructor from another studio. She added, "But this [class] is what I do for me." Monique expounded, "This is a journey. This really is a journey of transformation. I get to help these women evolve and see their own bodies transform."

Aside from walking away (and craving Carnevor's BLT wedge salad), we talked about our impressions of the class. If we take away our own discomfort and judgments, just like anything, we begin to see things in a new light. I walked away thinking this was an art, an exercise regimen that brought about femininity with the power to hold our own body strength.

Juxtapose that regimen to my upcoming class: boot camp. Perhaps when this 8-week session is over, I may just treat myself to a little me time and take another form of body transformation at the S Factor.

For more information, please visit http://www.sfactor.com/.

19 October - Photography: Behind the Camera & Behind DaLa Photography

A few years ago, my husband bought me a digital Nikon D40 for Christmas to resurrect my love for photography. I refrained from using it for six months -- pure intimidation. Exploration on something that has too many bells and whistles has to happen on my time. And I still shoot in the "auto" setting. I have taken photography classes in the past, but they seemed to focus more on developing in the dark room. I wanted to learn more about the upfront process -- the foundation in taking a great photo.

As I perused my Facebook news feed, I caught a glance of a phenomenal photo from friend David Larson's album. I knew David from working on fashion shows together, as well as in his previous life as a proprietor in the restaurant business. Now photography? He certainly showed natural ability for only shooting intensely for six months. How did he transcend from neophyte to developing his level of caliber in a short amount of time?

I asked him if I could observe a client photo shoot, then try to direct and style my own shoot -- operative word being "try". I walked in to his Fifth Ward studio. He and his model fiancee, Jemme, were all ready to go. Prompt and efficient. Lights, camera settings and background were set. Pretty impressive. I began to ask elementary questions about the equipment...the soft box and its diffused lighting, the ring light which gives the model a surreal healthy glow, the color temperature of the camera, etc. We looked at software programs like "Capture One" for post effects, before Photoshop. David was careful to underscore he is no expert, but again, I was drawn to his style, not his tenure in the industry. I commend him for his humility and zeal for pursuing his passion at this stage in his career.

After college, he took the normal route in the corporate world of sales for 10 years, then turned toward the entrepreneurial path in owning restaurants and bars. As a successful proprietor of Sauce, Terrace Bar and Camille's, he then opened a finance company...all the while in between, purchasing cameras, equipment and lights. "Ever since I was in high school, I wanted to be a fashion photographer in New York, but it was just a pipedream. I didn’t know what it required and there were too many barriers of entry without digital technology...."

But when he and Jemme started dating, his pipedream transformed to reality. Just as he encouraged Jemme's career in modeling years ago, she encouraged his shift into photography. "I've had the opportunity to observe the best photographers in the world, picking up their styles and techniques. This particular shoot today is for Henry Hall Jeans, a new denim company in Finland." I asked how he prepared for shoots. "It depends. This one is very specific, mainly product shots. But for lifestyle or editorial shoots, I make sure I understand what the clients want. Then I make sure the clients understand and commit to what they want. Sometimes it's a collaboration -- what are their goals? What are they looking for? Then I select wardrobe and the type of lighting. Lighting is key. You could have the same exact pose and model, but there's a fine line that could make the shot look silly or classy just because of the lighting."

David's entrepreneurial spirit lends to his appreciation for hard work and dedication behind startup companies; his goal is to help them succeed. One of those clients is local underwear company, Pooghe. "Pooghe has a bright future. It's fun to shoot for a product you believe in."

He accredits his acceleration in learning to having access to a stellar model in Jemme, but also to photographer and now business partner, Dan Bishop. He considers Dan his mentor in every sense of the word. "It’s funny how I went about pursuing photography. I bought the studio first, then a nice camera. Dan laughed at me because I already had all this equipment. He knew I wanted to be successful but had to lay out the pieces. If I had any questions, he wouldn't just tell me how to fix it, he would ask 'what don't you like about this photo?' and help me figure it out so I would learn. He is not only a jack-of-all-trades, but a king-of-all-trades. He is constantly learning and reading owner’s manuals and puts pressure on himself to be on top of the learning curve. Dan is a student of it all."

As we continued to chat, David wrapped up the shoot and I was ready to have a go. I had specific ideas in mind. My vision was playing more with the contrast, black and white, and seeing other sides of Jemme emotionally. He and Jemme were so supportive and patient in understanding my ideas, going through wardrobe I brought and showing me the difference in lighting positions. This process took time. I dressed her up, put her in position, looked through the lens and snapped the photo. I have to say, I am quite pleased with how these turned out.























As I looked through the lens to capture the shot though, I wondered what was behind the woman on the other side of the camera. Jemme has a calm and quiet disposition about her. I was surprised to learn that this once-upon-a-time manager of a tanning salon also happens to have an amazing singing voice. Laughing, she reminisced, "When I was a kid, we lived in an apartment complex. At night, I would sing a Mariah Carey song out the window at the top of my lungs with all my emotional might."

As I continued to ask her questions, she was extremely professional, holding poses, understanding the inner narrative in my mind of what I wanted to see through the lens. I asked her what goes through her mind during shoots. "I have grown more coordinated. I think about 'don't pop your butt out, suck your tummy in, don't curl your toes, and make sure your face looks hot'.... I always picture myself in a different place... And I think I can pretty quickly switch from one emotion to the next. I always felt comfortable doing that. People tell me I'm very animated."

I could easily understand what David meant now in the ease of working with Jemme. She is comfortable, confident, patient and not at all a prima donna. When asked of her most difficult shoot, she recalled working with Renee Jacobs. "I was out in the middle of the desert, 30 feet in the air, standing on top of teeny areas of jagged rock. There was nothing between me and the ground. Renee was so nice about it and said, 'do whatever you want.'"

Regarding one of her most amazing shoots, she recalled photographer Sylvie Blum from Germany, known for her artistic nudes with live lions and tigers. "Not only did we get amazing photos out of the shoot, but she is such an incredible person -- one of the best people I have ever met. But I will say with David, I definitely feel the most comfortable in my sexier roles when he's behind the camera."

Fortunately, David and Jemme have a dynamic working relationship, as well as personal relationship. His first show at Moct premiered at this most recent Gallery Night in Milwaukee. It was also David's birthday. "The owner Sini called and saw postings on Facebook. He asked if I would be interested in showing my work. I didn't know at that point what I would display, but I thought it would be fun to have Jemme as part of the process of my first show. So I came up with a mini series of artistic nudes of her."

With two new magazine ventures in the works, I can only imagine good fortune will come to this humble and hardworking couple. I believe vision leads you down your destined path, and positive begets positive. You can see David's current work through December at Moct, 240 E. Pittsburgh Ave., Milwaukee.

First show premiere on your birthday? Quite a gift and accomplishment. Happy birthday, David, and many more to come.

For more information, please contact David@DaLaPhotography.com.

For more information on luxury base-layer apparel, please visit www.pooghe.com.

For more information on Henry Hall Jeans, please visit http://www.henryhalljeans.com/.

For more information on Moct, please visit http://www.themoct.com/.

12 October - Flying High, Beathouse & The Iron Horse

A chopper. Who knew this is where I would find myself this week?

My friend Burkle had been asking me since early summer to go skydiving. It was something I looked into when I was in my early 20s -- pre-family and pre-responsibilities. I kindly declined, particularly after recalling a story where a wife bought her husband a skydiving excursion...and...let's just say it ended horribly. Nope, not worth the risk. Though I wondered if that fear should serve as the catalyst as to why I SHOULD do it. Uh...clarity again, please. Nope, still not worth the risk.

I contemplated what was the closest to being in the air as well as something I had not yet done. Helicopter ride. And actually take the reins. I began researching helicopter excursions that could fly my husband and I during dusk, overlooking Chicago's skyline. Between his crazy schedule and available airports to fly from, I realized I might have to go it alone. After much research, I came upon Chris Laskey from Midwestern Helicopters. Whew. Available two days from now? Perfect! Kenosha versus Schaumburg or Midway?! Even better.

The weather was gray and drizzly. I was a bit trepidatious. But flying beside a pilot with 46 years under his belt who prefers flying in this weather told me I was in good hands. When I arrived, Chris had this ease, confidence and calm about him that dispelled any fears. His disposition also allowed me to be my silly and curious self, as I had so many questions. Chris began with explaining the basics of flying..things like the difference of the wing between a plane and helicopter. The helicopter creates its own air movement, thus the ability to hover. We reviewed the terminology, different levers and parts -- two rotor systems, avoiding torque, collective pitch, trim, pedals and the cyclic. We discussed what each part is responsible for in the equation of movement. Lastly, we reviewed the commands of handing over the reins while in the air: "you have the controls"; my confirmation "I have the controls"; then his additional confirmation "you have the controls."

We then proceeded to the hangar. I was introduced to the Robinson R22...smaller than I thought. But stellar. Chris wheeled the aircraft outside. As we climbed in, we reviewed a checklist of making certain the controls and both systems worked (in case one failed while in the air.) We started the engine, put on our headsets, talked to the tower and began to ascend. We were floating. The closest to freely touching the sky was rising up into the air in this 2-seated helicopter, where a piece of glass separated me and the light drizzle. It was simply beautiful.

Leisurely. Calm. What surprising solace traveling 1500 feet above sea level at 90 miles per hour. The clouds prevented us from ascending any higher. After reviewing again the roles each lever, pedal and handle played, I was ready to have a go. The collective pitch ascended and descended the body; pedals turned the nose left or right; the cyclic tilts the rotor system which controls the direction and speed of our flight. Each movement was deliberately slow as the aircraft was extremely sensitive to the slightest nudge. I could feel I had to overcompensate a bit in the foot pedals due to the wind.

In order to become a licensed pilot, one must fly 50 to 60 hours ...at least I have my first 30 minutes. One needs flight ground instruction which covers rules on what is allowed and prohibited, weather conditions, where you can and cannot fly, etc. "Everything in America is regulated by licensing. In other countries like Russia, you have to answer where you are going and why. In the United States, we are allowed more freedom, but also more responsibility. If you violate any of the regulations, you lose your license. Period."

The second part in getting licensed is taking a written test by the Federal Aviation Association. The third is a 2-part exam with a designated examiner. The student is tested orally then must perform the maneuvers. How long it takes to actually achieve the license is dependent on how much the student dedicates to fly time, which should be 1 to 3 times per week. The financial commitment may reach approximately $12,000 to $15,000 in total. I thoroughly enjoyed my lesson, gave him a tip, which he initially refused. He called me a troublemaker followed by "but 'cha probably heard that before." We said our goodbyes and I assured him I would be back.

I followed this excursion with another fun task - recording session at Beathouse Music. I was so happy to see that Jim had reunited two of my favorite vocalists and client for this project, Erin, Ameerah and Ky. We goofed around per usual, but the synergy made for quite a productive and efficient session. Looking forward to the following reunion once more.

The week ended swimmingly with our wedding anniversary celebration at The Iron Horse Hotel. I met up with my husband, caught a cocktail before a relaxing dinner, then retreated back to our room for a comfortable night in. Happy Anniversary, hon.

Solitude at 1500 feet in the air; utter joy in a reunion of friends; connection and inner peace at this stage in marriage. All beautiful things...so very grateful.

For more information on Midwestern Helicopters, please visit: http://www.midwesternhelicopter.com/.

For more information on recording studio Beathouse Music, please visit: http://www.beathousemusic.com/.

For more information on The Iron Horse Hotel, please visit: http://www.theironhorsehotel.com/.