December 8, 2012

Day 30: Wrapping It Up

Because this was the first time I’d ever blogged, I thought it’d be appropriate for the last day to be dedicated to reflecting on what I’ve learned from this new experience. Here were the highlights for me from the 30 days.

1. I learned that these 30 days turned into about 97 because I got busy! I didn’t realize how time consuming it would be to do 30 activities and also write the blog, take pics, and assemble the entry. It’s a lot of work and I was surprised.              2. I learned that being a perfectionist is too exhausting. I’m over it.                      3. I learned I’m organizationally challenged.                                                        4. I learned that the city of Los Angeles is truly a wonderful place to live. I think I take it for granted sometimes.                                                                             5. I learned I really just hate running -already knew this, but now I’ll admit it.         6. I learned my fear of heights is even worse than I thought.                                 7. I learned I’m more brave than I ever knew-even a little bit of a dare-devil.          8. I learned that it’s difficult to write when you’re not in the mood or feel uninspired. Day #30 was two months late! Oh well, it wasn’t perfect and that’s ok. 9. I learned that DisneyLand has a payment plan option if you want an annual pass but it pains you to shell out $400-600 at one time for it.                                      10. I learned that real friends are the ones you can pick up with like no time has passed even if much has.                                                                                  11. I learned that every birthday should be celebrated with the wonder and excitement of a 5 year old-especially when you’re tempted to celebrate your 29th five years in a row ;)                                                                                         12. I learned that I need and want to have a mentor.                                          13. I learned that I really miss singing and it’s something I want to focus on again. 14. I learned I’m a terrible liar. Poker would not be a good career path for me.       15. I learned practice is essential. Beginners luck is a fluke and will only take you so far.                                                                                                                    16. I learned coffee (caffeine) is not a good idea when you’re about to fly across the pier on the trapeze. My nerves don’t need any more stimulation.                                                                                 17. I learned that it’s just as important to forgive myself for my mistakes as it is to forgive others.                                                                                                     18. I learned that jeans without stretch are not my friend.                                       19. I learned that it really is a gift to play a character in a project that means something to people years later. I’m very grateful.                                             20. I learned that having a strong group of friends is vitally important for me. So thankful.                                                                                  

I guess the most important thing I took away from this experience was the reminder that every day deserves to be celebrated. It’s up to me to slow down and make time to do what’s most important to me because the day truly is what I make it.  More than ever, I want to live life to the fullest. I sincerely wish the same for you!  Thank you for following me on this journey  xo Lacey

November 15, 2012

Day 29: The Ultimate Adventure

It was my worst fear but the ultimate adventure!

I’ve wanted to skydive since I was a teenager but thought I’d never in a million years have the guts to go through with it. I tossed and turned over whether or not I should confront this fear and crazy desire to jump out of a perfectly good airplane from 12,500 ft. I decided it was now or never and there really was no better way to end my #30in30. 

My friend Shea also wanted to jump, so we decided to to do it at Lake Elsinore with Skydive Elsinore.

After signing a mountain of waivers and paperwork, we were outfitted in our safety gear and equipment.

Then I was introduced to Mike; the instructor with whom I’d be tandem jumping.

Mike quickly caught on that while I was very excited„ I was also completely terrified. He joked the whole time about how this was his first day on the job and he was excited to have me with him for his 4th jump. He later said he’d actually jumped so many times he stoppped counting at 12,000. He was awesome!

It was almost our turn to board the plane. I love how I’m trying to smile but you can see the fear.

The plane ride up was the hardest part because of the anticipatory anxiety. I looked out the window and saw that we were so incredibly high. When I looked down at the altimeter on my wrist, I realized we were actually only at 3,000 feet! My panic about my fear of heights began to set in. Were we really going to jump from 9,500 higher? Really?! Why? This seemed plenty high enough! I thought I’d enjoy the experience once I was off of the plane, but I worried they’d have to surgically pry my fingers off of the door to get me out of there. I have to say though, it was interesting that while my anxiety and panic was on the most intense level, it was also the most calm I’ve ever felt. Maybe the intense fear had nearly sent me into shock, but I was practically numb. This is sounding like a fabulous time isn’t it?!

Before I know it, I’m up close and personal with Mike- literally sitting in his lap with our bodies strapped together. I made him pull the safety harness incredibly tight to ensure there was no way I would be slipping out. I had him pull it so tight I was also barely able to take a breath but that was fine by me. I was sure I wouldn’t remember to breathe anyway! Once we reached nearly 13,000 feet, the door is pulled up and people just start disappearing through the sky. My brave friend Shea and her instructor approach the door first and were out of sight in 2 seconds. Oh goodness, this meant it was our turn. Mike and I awkwardly scooted to the door. There I was, standing with my toes hanging over the edge of the plane. I looked down those 12,500 feet and thought to myself, if I can do this, I think I can do just about anything. I thought, I’m going to leave all of my fears and insecurities behind in this plane and just jump. I’m jumping into this next decade of my life with a new found confidence and joy. If I can find the courage to face a fear this big, how could I ever be scared again of the every-day obstacles I face in my life? Sorry to sound dramatic with my deep thoughts, but it’s not every day I jump out of a plane. 

We are at the door. We sway three times like we practiced on the ground, and the next thing i know, the wind is enveloping every inch of my body and lungs as I’m free falling 120 miles per hour through the open sky!  Don’t I look so brave and like I’m having a blast?! Well, not exactly…

I’m not gonna lie, I was terrified! But, once I got past those first 10 seconds and found my breath again, it was THE MOST exhilarating experience. It was incredibly fun!!!! I can’t accurately articulate the sensation of plummeting towards the earth at such a great speed. It’s a mixture of floating and being underwater on a roller coaster while in a tornado. It’s surreal to say the least. I screamed, laughed, reminded myself to keep breathing and tried to look cool for the camera (very unsuccessfully). The hat is super sexy right?

Once the parachute was open, it was so quiet. It was just Mike and I falling through the beautiful clear sky. I felt incredibly small.

I’ve really never felt more free. I got choked up as I realized I’d just stood toe to toe with one of my greatest fears! There’s something very intense about not only facing  a huge fear, but also putting such trust in this complete stranger to whom I was strapped as we fell through the sky. It’s a powerful thing. I know he’s only doing his job when he tandem jumps for thousands of people a year. But Mike, I’ll always be grateful for how you took care of me as we safely descended through the clouds. Thank you to the amazing woman who took the pictures and video. Thank you to the whole staff at Skydive Elsinore who made sure that my skydive was a great experience. Thank you to Shea and Amanda (who was nice enough to drive us there because I was too nervous)

What I learned… I’m a person who likes to fix things and be in control. When you fall out of a plane at 120 mph, you relinquish all control. God forbid something were to have gone wrong, there would have been nothing I could have done to fix the situation. I was completely trusting that we’d be safe and fully surrendered to simply enjoy the experience.

I won’t be taking risks like this with my physical body on a regular basis and I’m NOT encouraging you to either. But metaphorically, I realized that in life in general, I’d like to “let go” more often. I’ve always been a perfectionist which is counter intuitive since I know perfection is something that’s impossible to achieve. All I can do is my absolute best and at the end of the day, that has to be enough.  Since the skydive, I’ve certainly felt more free. Whenever I’m in a situation that causes me anxiety, I remind myself that I stood on the edge of that plane and leapt off. I didn’t resist and try to hold on. I didn’t over analyze and talk it over with everyone I know. I didn’t talk myself out of it because of my fear. Instead, I let go of all resistance, and allowed Mike, a trained professional, to lead the way. My job was to focus on enjoying this exhilarating, once in a lifetime experience. I’m so glad I did. It was incredible. 

 No resistance, just faith….

October 16, 2012

Day 28: Karaoke

How is it possible that I come from a musical theater background and yet I’ve never done karaoke?  My friend Jonathan, who is a very accomplished singer/songwriter, thought this was just an abomination so he organized a fun karaoke night. We went to the type of karaoke place that offers private rooms. I really enjoyed this because we could sing our hearts out without feeling self conscious or judged.

Amanda was brave enough to kick off our spectacular night of music with a country song. She has a really lovely voice and was fully committed to this bold choice so I give her credit.

Then Jonathan grabbed the mic…

 BOTH mics

After he and Brenden did an awesome duet, he showed us how it was done with some show-stopping performances from RENT. He has a fantastic voice!

Then Jonathan and Ali and I did some pretty hilarious duets.

We sang everything from Katy Perry, to Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, and Vanilla Ice (Ali can seriously rap) and I, of course, had to slow it down with some Les Miserables. I was in the show when I was a little girl and who doesn’t love a walk down memory lane. I’m a sentimental dork, I know:)

I’ve never laughed more or had a better time.  Now I want a karaoke machine at home. Or better yet? My very own karaoke ROOM!  I know what I’ll be asking Santa for this year…

October 15, 2012

Day 27: The Gretchen Wieners

My good friend Danny Franzese and I were in the film Mean Girls together. He played Damien and I played Gretchen Wieners. When he told me that his friend plays on a mens kickball team named after my character, I just had to see this for myself! Over the weekend, Danny and I had the chance to meet them before their game.

They made me my very own team shirt!

The adorable design is a toaster strudel with their team name The Gretchen Wieners written out in “icing.” I love it!

Thank you so much for making me feel very special! You are all so sweet and funny and I feel honored. If I may be so bold to say, you boys have definitely made “fetch” happen. ;) Sorry, I couldn’t help myself xo

October 4, 2012

Day 26: No Makeup

Today’s post is dedicated to all the women who support me, especially the young ladies.

I’m tweeted constantly by young women, usually in middle school or high school, saying things like, “I’ll never be pretty like you, or have hair like yours. I’ll never be ‘perfect’ like you, I hate my hair, body, face, etc.” It breaks my heart because I am NOT perfect in any way shape or form.  As much as I appreciate a compliment — which I’m terrible at accepting, by the way, because there’s a whole list of things I’d too like to change about myself physically — it truly disheartens me when I see tweets that young girls “hate themselves” because they don’t feel they fit the description of what the media has decided is beautiful or “perfect.” 

I’m saddened by the number of body image issues and eating disorders that seem to run rampant in young woman today. Why are teenagers getting boob jobs and Botox? I think the chase to reach this insanely unrealistic standard of beauty has gotten out of control! Just the other day, as a gorgeous girlfriend of mine was looking at a picture we took on my phone, she said, “Wait! I don’t look like that on Instagram! What happened?!” While this comment is funny, it’s also kind of scary and made me think. Because technology is ridiculously amazing, we can literally Photoshop and edit pictures on our phones to make ourselves look “better” in an instant. This is all fine and fun until suddenly a normal, unedited photo of myself scares me! Will we never be able to look at a normal picture of ourselves again and think it’s acceptable?! I think it’s a dangerous spiral.

Because here’s the truth. I’m FAR from perfect and I too look very different without makeup and hair extensions etc. It’s taken me years to get to this place, but I’m finally okay with that! As I’ve gotten older I’ve become much more concerned with health and happiness than physical beauty but I still have my own insecurities — lots of them actually! It’s just a little worrisome that an industry, which I love so dear, can make woman feel less-than. But I’m a willing participant in the entertainment industry and I don’t want to be a hypocrite, so please allow me to be clear.

Being a story teller is my passion so I’m incredibly grateful to be an actress. As an actress, I am a part of creating a fantasy, if you will.  I truly enjoy playing in this world and I love the glamorous side of my job. Being all dolled up for a shoot can be really fun, but it’s not how I look when I wake up in the morning! There are a lot of hair extensions, makeup, fake eye lashes, spray tans, and sometimes even photo-shopping. As long as it’s within reason, I have no problem with any of it. I’m also from the South where I was raised to always leave the house ”with your face on” so you won’t see me turning down makeup unless it’s necessary ;) But it does make me sad when I think that some young girls out there may not realize all that actually goes into shooting the cover of a magazine, or appearing on film. So in an effort to be real and honest I thought I’d show a candid picture of myself I took this morning on my iPhone without makeup. I had literally just washed my face and thought, well, normally this would be my nightmare but not today. No instagram or filters. Just me :) 

I’m not being a hero here, “Ohhh you’re so brave, Lacey, you went without make up!” I realize it’s not that big of a deal to most people, but the fact that these types of pictures usually end up on a website in some unfortunate, mean article probably titled The Good, the Bad and the UGLY — Stars Without Their Makeup! makes it a little scary and new for me. However, I do think it’s important to say that we all look different without makeup and hair extensions. There’s nothing wrong with you. You’re beautiful just the way you are. I don’t mean to sound cheesy, but believe it or not, the man in my life actually prefers me fresh faced and natural. I used to think he was just being nice and couldn’t possibly mean that, but I believe him now. And when I realized that I was completely comfortable being bare-faced in front of him, I also knew he was the one for me. Besides, real beauty resides in a place no one can see anyway — the heart.

So ladies, please do me this favor. The next time you look in the mirror, please don’t waste your time dissecting every little thing you think is wrong with you. Stop being so harsh and judgmental! We wouldn’t treat a friend in a such an unkind way so let’s not treat ourselves in this way. Instead, focus on the things you love about yourself. Realize that the things that make you different are the things that make you, YOU. There’s only ONE of you. LOVE HER!

October 3, 2012

Day 25: Reconnect with an old friend

When I made my list for #30in30, reconnecting with my friend Tom, with whom I’d lost touch, was on the list. As life took me away in a different direction, I’ve always regretted that we fell out of touch. As months turned into four years, the embarrassment of having let so much time slip away kept me from calling him which only made me feel worse. I had a new phone number and no longer had his number so I thought I’d drive to where he might still work and just leave him a note. Once I returned home from the party in Vegas, I was going to make every effort to reconnect. All this back story is so you understand that Tom had been on my mind and heart all week and I really looked forward to hopefully catching up with him soon.

Cut to: I’m at my party in Vegas having a great time when my sister comes running over with a guy standing next to her. It’s very loud and very dark in this nightclub so it’s a little disorienting. It takes me a second to take in who is standing in front of me, but low and behold it was my friend Tom! What were the odds?! The combination of him having been on my mind, the timing of it all being incredibly surreal, and because I’d just really missed him, the moment completely overwhelmed and I burst into tears. There I am, in the middle of this crazy party, crying! Pull it together woman! It was so embarrassing. Everyone came running over to see why I was upset but calmed down when I pulled it together and let them know it was a happy cry! Once I composed myself, Tom and I were able to catch up and make up for lost time. We exchanged numbers and made plans to catch up properly when we were both back in LA. Seeing him was a wonderful birthday present.

It felt serendipitous that I had made these plans to reconnect with him in Los Angeles when he just so happened to be in Vegas visiting family. He said he saw the poster for my party but thought it might just be for publicity and I probably wouldn’t actually be there. He decided to give it a shot and came to the party anyway. I’m so glad he did! We were both thinking of one another and desiring to catch up when we found one another in Vegas! What are the chances?! It’s funny that when we make well intentioned plans, they sometimes just magically unfold. This actually happened a lot this month with regards to my #30in30 list.

What I learned… People who really care about you never stop. Real friends are the ones with whom you can pick up right where you left off no matter how much time has passed. Love ya Tom!

 I realize I sound like an AT&T commercial but if you’re missing a friend right now, pick up the phone. Reach out :)

October 3, 2012

Day 24: The Party

I’ve only had a few birthday parties in my life. The first one I remember was when I was turning five. The party was at McDonald’s. That particular McDonald’s location in Mississippi had just gotten a ball pit in the play ground “play place” and I thought it was the coolest thing to ever happen. The next party I recall was when I celebrated my 15th birthday at Planet Hollywood restaurant in Beverly Hills. It was 1997 and I remember we all did the Macarena. Over and over… oh yeah. Ten years later I celebrated my 25th at a restaurant/bar here in LA and had a blast until we all got jay-walking tickets at the end of the night. I felt like a criminal haha! Three years after that I celebrated my 27th with a few friends in Vegas, but then spent my 28th and 29th quietly here at home. Normally, I prefer a fun dinner or something mellow, but this year was different. I was turning 30 on the 30th and I was going to celebrate my ”golden” birthday in style. Gallery Nightclub at Planet Hollywood casino in Las Vegas was very generous and threw me a huge bash this past weekend. 

My sister Crissy was able to be there which meant the world to me.

 Also traveling from the South were childlhood friends

 and some great friends from LA!

 

After dinner, I did a wardrobe change which felt very J. Lo or Beyonce of me! Really though it was just because I’m a total klutz and I inevitably spill my drink at every meal and didn’t want to ruin my party dress. After changing, we all gathered in my room so we could all walk to the club together.

Before we left, I took a second to look around and got a little emotional. I was just incredibly touched that so many of the special people in my life had traveled all that way to celebrate with me. For me. I felt so loved and it really meant a lot. 

Now, here’s the thing, whenever I go out to a club, which is an extremely rare occasion, I’m usually more comfortable being the girl who stands off to the side and holds everyone else’s bags. But not this night. No, no, no. My friend Nicki said it was her goal in life to get me dancing on our little stage at some point.

Well friends, she clearly didn’t have to try too hard! From the moment we walked in we were dancing until we literally danced the night away! I’ve never moved so much in 5-inch stilettos. Wow and Ow! Everyone sang, laughed, and danced like there was no tomorrow. All of our legs were incredibly sore the next day, but it was well worth it!

Nothing makes me happier than to know that those around me are enjoying themselves and having fun. Let me tell ya, mission accomplished!

The next day we shared a ton of funny stories of the night’s adventures and had a good laugh. Thank you so much to everyone there who took such great care of us and showed my friends and I such a fun night! Thank you to all the fans who also came out to celebrate. Thank you to all of my wonderful friends. I’m grateful for your presence in my life! 

I must say, it was quite a blast to step out of my usual routine and ”let my hair down.” I know this was a special night that I’ll remember forever. My “golden” birthday was exactly that. Golden, xo.

October 1, 2012

Hey! I realize my #30in30 seems like false advertising because my birthday passed and I’ve only finished 22 days of activities :/ Truth is, I just got busy! I was enjoying blogging about this past month so much so I’ve decided to finish out the 30 days even though it’s past my birthday. Thanks for following along with me! Xo

View more on WhoSay »

September 28, 2012

Day 23: “Pawn Stars” Pawn shop

I’m a huge fan of the History Channel show Pawn Stars. I’ve probably seen every episode at one point or another. I’ve been to Vegas many times, and I’ve always wanted to visit the store in person, but never have. So after picking up friends from the airport, we drove straight down the strip to find the famed store. Apparently, everyone else in Vegas had the same afternoon plans! Outside the store, which looks much smaller in person, was a line of people that wrapped all the way down the sidewalk, around the building, and into the parking lot. Because it was so hot, and the line was so long, we decided to not attempt to go inside, but just take some pictures outside instead.

We were disappointed that we didn’t have enough time to wait to go inside, but it was still really fun to see the actual store. Maybe one day we’ll get to meet Chumlee, Corey, Rick and the “Old Man” But for now, we’ll just catch them on the History Channel :)

September 27, 2012

Day 22: Donny & Marie Live Vegas Show

I’m in Vegas kicking off my birthday celebration with my amazing sister Crissy!

When I was on Marie Osmonds talk show last week, she surprised me with tickets to her live show with Donny here in Vegas at the Flamingo Showroom.

The show was phenomenal. I had no idea that they’ve both performed in such a vast variety of musical genres. They featured songs from Broadway shows they have starred in, as well as the classic from their albums which were everything from country, opera and pop. Both Donny and Marie spend an incredible amount of time dancing on the stage while singing. I was tired just watching! Their stamina is admirable. Her costumes for the show were stunning. She later revealed that her daughter is the designer. Impressive! Purple seemed to be the theme of the show. I was so proud that I just so happened to have worn my sparkly purple sequined shirt. Vegas Baby!

My favorite part of the show was how engaging they were with the audience. They are so beloved by their fans and they take great measure to show their gratitude.

One woman , probably in her fifties, was freaking out over Donny like a 13-year-old girl at a Justin Beiber concert. When she rushed the stage, he gave her a hug and apologized for being sweaty. She them rubbed the sweat from his brow all over her bare arms, swearing to never wash again.  It was quite a moment. 

The Osmonds were gracious enough to chat with my sister and I after the show. They really are special people. If you’re in Vegas, you must check out this highly entertaining show.

Thank you Donny & Marie!

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