What a week it has been. Actually, three weeks.
Our dear friend Adrian is now on the heart transplant list. For some reason (we had a bad connection so we lost this bit of info) the insertion of the machine to help his heart pump is not considered the best idea for him now. We had a long talk with him the other day from his hospital room. I hope we can speak to him today, as well.
I’m still shocked about the show I was involved with not moving to Broadway. The cast had received notices that contracts were coming and that it was a done deal. There is so much disappointment among cast members – and me. I’m in a conflicted position on this one because I know the reason why it didn’t move forward and it involved someone I know and love, so I understand both sides of the story. But, on a personal level, I lost out on income I was counting on. So I understand, but I feel a little anger, as well.
So yesterday, I attended a zoom meeting hosted by an online Blythe friend. Her guests were the two women, mother and daughter, behind the account Play From Your Heart. They make the most whimsical hats and accessories for Blythes and I’ve long been an admirer. They live in Germany. Hearing their backstory was inspiring. They were speaking to us from their studio, surrounded by their magical creations, and I was so grateful to be there. So grateful. I needed some magic and whimsy. And I got it. I thanked them for that, briefly mentioning it had been a tough couple of weeks, and the opportunity to play, to visit with people who are creative and charming, and also to be with like-minded Blythe lovers – well it was just what the doctor ordered. I almost didn’t go, but I ended up logging on at the last minute.
Wren attended because she is wearing one of their creations. The beret.
I want to buy a couple of their wonderful hats for Blythe dolls but will have to save up for those. The reason Wren (and Lily) get to share this little hat is because it’s smaller and less expensive. I love it.
Anyway, I desperately need an escape these days and the girls and their world provides that for me.
I’ve considered selling Wren and Lily because we could use the money. But every time I look at them, I see those beautiful faces, the worried look on Wren’s face that reminds me so much of me as a little girl, and I can’t. Yesterday, as I was telling Don about the zoom meeting, I was holding Wren. He took her in his hands and said how much he loved her face and eyes. Then he held Lily. And then he whispered, “Don’t tell the other girls, but these two are my favorites.” I told him I had been considering selling them. “You need to put that idea out of your head,” he said.
So that’s that. At least, for now.
Stay safe.
Happy Sunday.
Linda says
I truly feel bad for the cast members that the income from Broadway was theirs sole income. Thank God that is not you and Don.
How do they survive?
Never count on money until it us in the bank is my motto.
Claudia says
They survive on unemployment as do most actors when they’re not employed.
Stay safe.
Elaine in Toronto says
Oh, dear, Claudia, I think you would really regret selling Wren and Lily. Don is right. Don’t even think about it. Look at that sweet face. She does look ever so cute in her hat. I checked out the site you mentioned. So many lovely things. It’s very sad that your broadway show was cancelled. That decision will have a big impact on so many creative, talented people. Praying Adrian will havesuccessful heart transplant surgery soon. Stay strong. So lucky you and Don have each other. Hugs, Elaine
Claudia says
Yes, that is our most important prayer – that Adrian gets his transplant soon.
Stay safe.
Chris says
Something so simple as Wren’s adorable outfit put a smile on my face this morning. Love everything about it from head to toes. Too many days of late have been a bit tough and nice to find a little something, something to smile over. Thanks for sharing and no, I wouldn’t be giving her up, she is just too sweet.
Claudia says
I know! She has the sweetest face.
Thanks, Chris.
Stay safe.
Olivia says
Don’t sell Wren and Lily. I would instead sell one of your Maxfield Parrish paintings. I hope everyone disappointed with the show not going to Broadway goes on to do something even better. Prayers for your friend needing the heart transplant.
Claudia says
Oh, I wouldn’t sell my Maxfield Parrish paintings! Not even a consideration.
Stay safe.
kathy in iowa says
sad you are having such troubles.
glad you were able to participate in the blythe zoom, that you and don got to talk with adrian and you have the technology that allows such things to happen.
and especially i am glad that you and don have each other.
praying for you both, adrian and everyone else.
better days are ahead.
kathy
Claudia says
Yes. We are no different from others. Everyone has stress at the moment, whether it’s monetary, or illness, or worry, etc. We know we will be guided to make the right decisions.
Stay safe, Kathy.
kathy in iowa says
yeah. i wish and pray it wasn’t so, but unfortunately everybody does have something. sorry for what you have to deal with.
and yes again to being guided about decisions. :)
happy, safe sunday.
kathy
Claudia says
xo
kaye says
I hope your friend receives a transplant soon.
Wren is a keeper…she wants to be with you at Mocking Hill Cottage..it is written on her
lovely, lovely face.
Take Care,
Kaye
Claudia says
Aw, thank you, Kaye!
Stay safe.
Vicki says
Wren is just particularly adorable and you have her dressed adorably as well.
Claudia says
Thank you, Vicki!
Stay safe.
jeanie says
What a sweetie. And I don’t know if I’m talking about Wren or Don!
Claudia says
Both!
Stay safe, Jeanie.
Nora Mills says
I have my small collection of four Blythes thanks to your influence, and they give me a lot of comfort and fun. I managed to make a sort of clunky beanie and sweater which was satisfying. For so many reasons that you share with us Don is such a wonderful guy. I hope when the door closed on this production, another one will be opening soon. We too are freaked out about the lack of snow. I’ve lived in New England since 1981 and I’ve never seen anything like this. I hope you and Dan stay safe and warm.
Claudia says
I hope another door opens quickly!
Yes, I’ve lived in PA, MA, and NY – all since the late 80s, and I’ve never seen a year like this one.
Stay safe, Nora.