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Another foggy morning. It’s still quite humid here and will be for the next couple of days.

Okay. This is a news post – good and bad.

First:

Yesterday, in the middle of what was already a stressful day – more on that later – my sister texted me to say that Little Z’s assistant – the young woman who stays by his side at school to help him navigate the process – had been diagnosed with Covid and the school had called to say that Z had to be picked up and quarantined until next Monday or after a negative Covid test. My brother-in-law went to get him and then searched for a place where he could have Z tested. Florida – as we all know – is a damn mess because of their idiot Governor, so trying to find a place to be tested was very difficult. Nevertheless, John found one and Z was tested and he tested negative. Mere really wants him in school; he wears a mask the entire time he’s there. They will keep an eye on him and if he shows any symptoms, he’ll get tested again. The assistant usually wears a mask, though Mere has seen her without one, and neither she nor Z wear a mask at lunch because they’re eating. I asked Mere if the assistant had been vaccinated and Mere informed me that in Florida, you can’t ask that question because it’s private information. Even though the assistant is working with Z every day. The school couldn’t even tell Mere who had exposed Z to Covid, though Mere knew because she had been in contact with the assistant.

Needless to say, Z has had respiratory issues since he was a baby and this sent us all into a tailspin until we heard that, so far, he’s tested negative.

Please hold him in your thoughts. He’s too young to get vaccinated and the school system he’s in has not mandated masks yet.

Second:

After a long two weeks of uncertainty, I have some news to share with you – I’m going to do the dialect coaching on a film! My friend and former student Jim Parsons contacted me two weeks ago about a film his production company, along with two other production companies, is producing. Jim is also acting in it and it’s being filmed in NYC. It’s based on a true story of a couple, who happen to be gay, and their relationship as they navigate the tragedy of one of them getting cancer and, eventually, dying. The two leads are played by Jim and an actor from England named Ben. Hence, the need for me, because Ben needs to sound very American.

During the past two weeks, I’ve read the script, communicated with the production office, and then at the end of last week, I had an hour long Zoom session with Ben, to see how we worked together. He was also going to work with another coach on Sunday, so my getting the job was really up in the air. I liked Ben enormously. He’s fun and quick and smart. I thought we got along well, but you never know, do you? So I was worried. And like I do often, I thought it just might be better if I didn’t do the job. Away from home for 6 weeks, long, long 12 hour-plus days, I’ve never done film before, etc.

At the last minute, there was a snag. I thought it might not happen. Yesterday, I spoke with the Line Producer – he handles the budget – a couple of times and, again, I thought I might have to withdraw. In fact, that was my first thought yesterday morning – “You need to withdraw from the project.” Thankfully, I sat on that and waited to hear from them. I spoke to the Line Producer who handles the budget a few times and we worked it out and I’ve got the job! It pays well – much better than anything I’ve done in the theater – and they’re going to help me with expenses as I have to find some place to stay while I’m in the city for 6 weeks – from October 27th to December 10th.

I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to finally – at the age of 68 – get a film credit and, more importantly, to work on a beautiful project with Jim.

If this isn’t a reminder that great things can happen at any age, I don’t know what is. Don and I are over the moon. He’s so happy for me. We stood in the kitchen after I told him the news and just stared at each other and then I started jumping up and down.

And Jim. We’ve known each other now for 23 years – his class had just received their MFAs as Don and I were about to move East. I went to see their showcase in NY not long after we moved here. It’s not as if we’re in touch all the time, we aren’t. But long ago, he told me about a project that he might want to work with me on that involved a dialect. It never happened. But he’s loyal, Jim, and many, many years later when he had a project that needed a coach, he immediately contacted me. I cry just thinking about it.

Anyway, my friends, there will be more on this later. In the weeks before filming starts, Ben and I will be working together via Zoom so that when he comes here, he feels prepared and ready to go.

Whoo hoo!

Stay safe.

Happy Wednesday.

Comments

  1. Fingers crossed and positive thoughts sent to Little Z. What a nightmare. So glad he tested negative.

    And what fantastic news for you! We are thrilled for you. (I say we, because when I read your post, I just had to tell my husband…lol!) This is such a great opportunity for you, I’m sure the housing will fall into place somehow. Woohoo indeed! ;)

    • I’m so excited and I got a note from Jim today who, if possible, is even more excited than I!

      Thanks, Donna.

      Stay safe.

  2. Hope Z stays safe. How stressful for all of you!
    Congrats on the job! How exciting for you! We will look forward to hearing all about it!

    • Very stressful. So far, I haven’t heard anything today. Fingers crossed.

      Stay safe, Ellen.

  3. Congratulations on the new job!! I am sure you are one of the best dialect coaches in the business. It always helps to get work because this will most likely lead to more work for you. Wonderful news to hear in the morning! Little Z will be in my thoughts and prayers today. He’s a gem!

  4. Oh Florida….! I’m projecting white light around your nephew.
    As for the new gig, Congrats!!! Some good news for both of you.
    Ciao.
    Deb

    • Praying he stays well and that this mask situation can be resolved. And, of course, thinking of the assistant who isn’t feeling at all well right now.

      Stay safe, Deb!

  5. I hope all goes well for your family in FL. It makes me angry that so many people put others in danger for their own selfish reasons and their stupidity. I am done with them.

    I does make me very HAPPY about your new job! It made me tear up..tears of joy.

    Take Care,
    Kaye
    Park City, UT

    • I am so angry with them!

      Thanks for the good wishes, Kaye. I’ve cried off and on since yesterday.

      Stay safe.

  6. Congratulations! Happy for you and looking forward to seeing the film some day.

    I’ll be keeping Z in my thoughts and hope he stays well.

    Take care!

  7. Congratulations! Your excitement for your work is so evident in this post! I look forward to hearing more about the details as you share them. Prayers sent for Z. You are right about Florida, what a mess.

  8. I am so happy for you in your opportunity to work in film! Congrats!! Out of the darkness and into light.

    I will keep Z in my prayers. Florida–I don’t understand people who risk others and their own lives.

    All the best
    Marion

  9. Praying all is well for Little Z. Congratulations on your wonderful news, it’s great that you’re back working after these uncertain times.

    Happy Wednesday

    • Yes. Work is usually rare these days, so I am very grateful for this opportunity, Dee Dee.

      Stay safe.

  10. We live in Florida and have a daughter that teaches and two young grandsons in school here so we understand fully the frustration and concern your sister’s family is feeling. This governor is a constant source of disgust and disbelief. Great news about your new endeavor. I agree, you are never too old to have a new dream!

    • Never too old.

      And I echo your thoughts about the governor. All of this because he wants to run for president.

      Stay safe, Janet.

  11. Will keep positive thoughts for your Little Z. Glad he is okay.

    I am so happy for you and Don!!! Congratulations!

    The next campaign slogan for DeSantis: DESANTIS FOR DEATH. He is a disgrace.

    From your friend you’ve never met, Chris

    • Exactly. That’s the campaign slogan everyone should use.

      Thanks so much, Chris.

      Stay safe.

  12. Praying for Little Z to stay healthy. I’m glad the test was negative.

    I’m so excited and happy for you! The job sounds great. Congratulations!

  13. So very happy for you getting the job on a film!! As for Mere and little z, I wish they did not live in Fl.! What a jerk that governor is. In my opinion he is responsible for a lot of illness, suffering, etc.

    • I wish they lived here, for all sorts of reasons! DeSantis is responsible for deaths, pure and simple.

      Thanks so much, Judy.

      Stay safe.

  14. Congrats for this new great opportunity! And after that job you can go to Paris!!!
    Ref.: Little Z: These are the ways I don’t understand some american attitudes at all.
    Stay safe!
    Helga

    • Paris might be next year. I’d sure like to put a little aside for a trip, Helga!

      I don’t understand these people, either. It’s as if my country has become some place I no longer recognize.

      Thanks, Helga.

      Stay safe.

  15. Hi,Claudia! Your post brought tears of sadness for your family in Florida and happiness for your good news. Life! xo

  16. Wow! First of all, Little Z and family will be in my thoughts. Thank goodness for a negative test, and I hope that continues. I also hope that a vaccine for the 12 and under kiddos isn’t far away. They don’t deserve all the suffering they’ve had to go through with covid.

    Second, huge congratulations on your job on the film. As a fan, Jim Parsons has always seemed like he would be a nice guy, and your comments confirm that. I’m so glad for you because you’ve commented many times that you would like to work, and yay for this. You deserve it.

    • Jim is one of the finest and nicest people I have ever known, so your instincts about him are right on the nose, Jayne.

      Thanks so much.

      Stay safe.

  17. Wow — what a post and a lot of news. I will be sending every bit of positive energy to Mere and her family that Little Buddy stays Covid-free. I know how much they were loving this assistant (at least at the beginning) and that is tremendously challenged, especially with a child who has lung issues. I’m glad the first test was negative. I hope it stays that way.

    You’ll be working with Ben Aldridge! He’s going to be (or rather, is, since it’s shot) Matthew Venn in the first of the new Anne Cleves series, “The Long Call.” (A wonderful book if you haven’t read it — I love her work. It will be a terrific series, I think. It airs this fall in the UK and I’m hoping Acorn/PBS or Britbox pick it up for US distribution.) And of course Jim Parsons, which has to make you smile big, given your past connections. Meanwhile, you’ll be working for the first time (or maybe second) since all this came down. I am just thrilled for you. And even better that they will help you with the temp relocation expenses. Elation!

    • Praying that he stays well, Jeanie.

      Yes, Ben is a great guy and he was also in Fleabag, which I saw when it first aired. I watched his reel and remembered him. He was very funny. He is also in a Marvel Comics series playing Batman’s father. Another American accent! He couldn’t be nicer.

      I wrote Jim this morning to thank him and he wrote the most beautiful note back. I think he’s even more excited than I am! I love and adore him.

      Stay safe, Jeanie.

      • Well, I’m elated for you. The timing is great — I’m sure the income is welcome. But just being back at work and with someone you like and admire and respect — well, that’s sheer gold.

        You stay well, too.

  18. How wonderful for you! I’m so sorry to hear about Z. I was just reading an article about our local schools. One high school and an elementary school has students with covid. My five year old grandson just started kindergarten this month. He isn’t at the schools with the outbreak but I know it is just a matter of time. I am so scared for the children. I will keep Z in my thoughts. Please keep us posted on his progress.

    • It’s such a source of worry for so many parents. And then when you add in a Governor who doesn’t want kids wearing masks (I could smack him) you feel powerless.

      Thanks, April.

      Stay safe.

  19. Congratulations! I am so happy for you! What a wonderful opportunity.

    I am sorry to hear about little z. Florida is a horrible mess. After going almost 2 years without seeing my mother, who is in independent living in Florida, I just traveled to see her. I was a wreck about flying, Florida, etc., but am now out of self quarantine and she is fine and covid free.

    • I’m glad you could visit your mom, Pam. But it must have been stressful, given the state of Florida. You’ll notice that Don and I have not visited there even though we would like to.

      Thanks so much.

      Stay safe.

  20. Congratulations Claudia, such super news!❤️❤️
    Little Z and family are in my prayers.
    Take care.❤️❤️

  21. Positive thoughts going to Little Z and all his family. Florida’s governor is a
    murderer.

    Congratulations on your film work, I am so happy for both of you. Well deserved
    Claudia.

  22. Aw, these times are such a rollercoaster ride!!!

    Great news about the film, though. The Florida problem just gets worse and worse. Too bad we will be headed there…soon?…really mixed feelings about that.

    • I bet you have mixed feelings. It isn’t a good place to be right now.

      Thanks, Shanna.

      Stay safe.

  23. The situation in Florida is a disgrace and affects all of us but especially the young children who live there. I will keep Little Z in my daily prayers.

    Congratulations on your new job! So exciting! Please keep us posted on your experiences doing this!

    Cindy

    • Thank you, Cindy. I appreciate you keeping Z in your prayers and thank you for your kind thoughts on the job.

      Stay safe!

  24. It’s too bad Z’s assistant doesn’t work for you as you can definitely make vaccination status a requirement of employment. Hopefully he will stay healthy and Covid-free.
    CONGRATULATIONS!!!! I know that you are not ready to stop working and this job is such a well-deserved opportunity!! It will be great recognition and I can’t wait to see your name in the credits!!!

    • She’s provided free of charge by the Board of Education.

      Thanks so much, Becky, for the congrats. It will be pretty neat to see my name on the screen!

      Stay safe.

  25. Sending positive thoughts for Z.

    Congratulations on landing the film job. What an accomplishment, at any age!

    • Thank you, Cindy!

      Jim reminded me that he is now the age I was when we both moved East. 20 years!

      Stay safe.

  26. So worrisome for Meredith and family concerning Little Z. Sending out positive vibes!

    And YOU, Claudia…magnificent! Jump over the moon a few times, this is special indeed! Will Don be able to visit you while you’re in NYC?

    • Yes, he will. I imagine he might come for a weekend. Maybe we’ll alternate weekends! Me at home one week, Don in NYC the next.

      Thanks so much, Wendy.

      Stay safe.

  27. I am so happy for you and your job! What a wonderful adventure! I do hope Little Z is okay. Florida is so screwed up.

    • It’s terrible in Florida. Just terrible.

      Thanks so much for your kind thoughts, Jane.

      Stay safe,

    • Thank you, Terri.

      Praying for Little Z and, at the same time, very happy about this new opportunity.

      Stay safe!

    • Thank you so much, Mary!

      We’re holding Little Z in our prayers.

      And I’m very excited about this job.

      Stay safe!

  30. So much love and many prayers for Little Z. xo And Congratulations to you Claudia! I am so excited and happy for you! A new adventure and job wrapped into one! Woo Hoo!

    • Thank you. I haven’t heard anything from Mere today, so I assume he’s feeling okay. Fingers crossed.

      Thank you so much for your congratulations, Mo!

      Stay safe.

  32. Will keep your sister/family and little Z in my prayers. My daughter is a teacher’s aide for special children and is required to wear her mask at all times when she is around her student. Our county here in Calif. is very lax about mask wearing ( won’t rant on vaccination %) but what is with some people??? We should all do our best to protect each other!
    So happy about your job. It will be something to look forward to watching the movie.
    Best wishes to you and Don.

    • Thank you, Linda. Bless your daughter and everyone who is dealing with all of this while trying to educate and protect children.

      Stay safe!

  33. First of all, prayers for little Z and the assistant too. My oldest granddaughter (17) works at a local amusement/water park in the summer and was exposed to covid last week. She has tested negative but still has to quarantine for 10 days. She could be vaccinated (and should be!) but they just hadn’t got around to it despite my reminders.

    Congratulations on the job! I enjoy anything Jim Parsons does so I will look forward to this film.
    Stay safe

    • I”m glad she’s tested negative but this delta variant is nothing to mess with!

      Thanks so much, Marilyn.

      Stay safe.

  34. That is wonderful news! When you are good people want you. How exciting is that? It must be uplifting to again have a professional job.

    So sorry about Z. I am sending positive thoughts that he is COVID free and able to return to school.

    Yep Desantis is sad.

  36. Keeping Z in my prayers. This Covid is such a hard journey and now our little ones are on the firing line without vaccines. Scary.

    So very happy for you to have this opportunity. I know how much you like and admire Jim Parsons and this sound like an amazing experience for you. A film credit, Yay You!
    Hugs!

  37. Keeping little Z in my thoughts and prayers. Hoping he is able to return to school safely!

    Also. many happy congratulations on your new job! So very exciting for you. I think Jim Parsons is a terrific guy all around :) You will definitely be an asset to the film. YAY!

  39. Haven’t responded in a bit as I have just been feeling overwhelmed by everything going on in the world. But….this post….I just had to respond and say how very thrilled I am for you to have gotten this opportunity! I can’t wait to read all about your journey!
    Prayers for your nephew! I truly don’t know which governor I despise more, Fl or TX. Either way both are responsible for so many lives lost. I hope everyone remembers these times when they go to the polls.

    • They are indeed responsible for lives lost.

      Thank you for your good wishes, Donna.

      Stay safe!

  40. Praying for little Z to remain negative! I’m so sorry he was exposed. And a hearty congratulations! To you on the great job opportunity!

  42. Claudia — hope Little Z remains virus-free — last week, our fam got a scare when our baby grgirl (age9) was exposed to a positive case (another child/afterschool care). she had to quarantine for 6 days, be tested (neg results), back to school on day 8. of course, too young for vaccine but she is very careful re: mask, washing hands, etc., but all of us had a very tense 6 days (altho, she had no symptoms). just hoping/praying that beautiful young man suffers no problems. great news about film work — do you remember all of your coaching tricks??? very glad for you. staysafe/healthy

    • I’m so sorry you had to go through that, but I’m happy all is well.

      I just coached via Zoom about a month ago, so yes I remember. I’ve been doing it for 35 years, so it’s in my bones.

      Thanks, Linda.

      Stay safe.

  43. First, congratulations on the job! I hope your husband can go with you to New York, and maybe even get some work of his own.

    Second, I’m sorry to hear about your nephew. Here’s hoping that he stays healthy.

    Third, I live in Florida. Yes, it is a mess. Yes, the governor is an idiot. Fortunately, I live in a county that has defied his orders against masks in the schools. My daughter is in her senior year and I was hoping it could go well for her. Unfortunately, I work in higher education, which is not defying the governor on masks. Going to work the past year has been an adventure. We were already dealing with the fallout of his stupid, ill-informed decision last year: https://edscoop.com/florida-gov-desantis-wipes-out-30-million-online-learning-budget/ That situation worked itself out, but not without a lot of difficulty for a lot of people.

    • I’m so sorry! That is terrible. He’s an idiot who wants power, and doesn’t give a damn about his constituents.

      Mere’s school district has yet to defy the governor.

      Thanks Bridget.

      Stay safe.

  44. Sending up prayers for Z and Mere.
    So happy for you to be working with Jim. You both seem like sweet souls. Enjoy !

  45. Congratulations on wonderful news! That is terrific.
    And for Z: what a scary time. My best friend has a 19 year old, non-verbal, son who has autism. He can’t tell her when he is unwell, which is an added layer of complexity.

  46. Congratulations on the job. You will be fabulous and well what’s not to love about Jim Parsons; he’s a lamb. Sending many, many prayers for Little Z and your sister.

  48. Hi, Claudia,
    Whew! So much in your post. I hope all continues to be good for Z. Not going on a rant about
    Florida, but I hope things will remain steady for him and his family.

    Wonderful news about your job. Congratulations! I am so happy for you.

    Re where to live in NYC, if a place on East 75th Street is something you might be interested in, a very dear friend lost her husband recently and she’s thinking of selling her apartment on it. If you might be interested in renting, I’ll speak with her and then give you her info. No worries, if not.

    All the best,
    Caroline

    • Thank you for that offer, Caroline. So far, I think I have a possible airbnb through a former student. If it doesn’t work out, I’ll let you know.

      Stay safe!

  49. Little Z’s well being is surely causing you all quite some concern .May Mere and family be calm and Z stay truly well through all of this.
    Congratulations Claudia on your new assignment!!! It sounds intense (but is time limited ) As I see it they are fortunate as in addition to your skills you have so much to offer just as you are!
    You may need to rest up♡I’m happy for you!

    • Very intense! I worry a bit about those long days, but I’ll get through it – there will be so much to observe!

      Thank you Grace.

      Stay safe!

  50. Whoo-who, indeed! I’m so happy and excited for you. I love positive news and this is just the best. Lucky Ben to have you as his coach. Such good news! Words fail me so I’ll just go do my happy dance for you!

    I’m hoping that little Z stays healthy. Nothing is guaranteed, but although kidlets are getting the Delta variant, they are usually relatively mild cases. Nevertheless, I hope Z stays covid free. I feel for parents in Florida as the school year begins. I hope vaccines are approved for the younger children soon so I can relax and not worry so much about my grand-daughter.

    Let’s all stay safe and healthy.

    • My sister constantly worries about school. They are not nearly as careful with masks as they were last year. The desks are closer together. And as you can see, she had reason to worry.

      Thanks so much Roxie.

      Stay safe.

  51. Congratulations! Such exciting news about your job!!

    Like your sister, I too live in Florida and my 4 grandchildren live here as well, all are too young to be vaccinated. I live in fear everyday for their safety. I’m disgusted with our leadership in this state.

    • I can’t write what I would say out loud about DeSantis. I despise him.

      Thanks, Jen.

      Stay safe.

  52. Stupendous news! Out of this bleak time a wonderful opportunity for you. I’m posting late because this deserves continuous celebration. 8-))
    Please excuse my vicarious enjoyment in this.

    My thoughts and prayers continue for your extended family and Don and you, especially now for Z, to keep him safe from Covid.

  53. Sending positive thoughts and prayers Little Z’s way.

    And huge congratulations to you! I hope finding a place to live while working doesn’t prove too difficult.

    • It looks like it just might be taken care of. I’ll know more tomorrow.

      Stay safe and thanks, Linda.

  54. I just got on to look at blog posts and just read all your news !!! And it is GREAT news (and also that little Z wasn’t having any symptoms today either). I am tickled pink for you and just read today’s post too and saw you have got a wonderful offer for a place to rent for the period, plus this job helping with that expense – this is a WIN WIN for you. And I guess I am one of those that are too cautious but even though I am fully vaccinated, I have never stopped wearing masks in public, I still social distance and I sanitize / wash hands ALOT. I guess I prefer to err on the side of caution. I understand kids to better in actual school but keeping further apart, fully masked would be safer with this very contagious variant. I hope Z continues to stay negative! Take care and stay safe. Again – such wonderful news!!

    • Thank you, Dawn! It’s pretty exciting news. I just finished working with the British actor and he’s lovely,

      Stay safe!

  55. That is such wonderful news about you working on the film! I’m so happy for you. Congrats, Claudia!
    And sending prayers for little Z…

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