Oliver National Tour 2008

A Fond Farwell from Akron, Ohio

2009-03-03T06:37:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe it but the tour is actually over. After 104 shows in six months it ended with the final three peformances in Akron, Ohio. Our three amazingly talented and professional young boys did not even miss a show! In the beginning of the tour everyone assumed the kids would get sick with this type of travelling but our guys proved to be of healthy stock. They didn't even catch the stomach virus that seemed to be very contagious and felled quite a number of cast members. The final performances were one show on Friday and two on Saturday. We had the cast party on Friday night at the hotel after the show. Mikey decided to dress up in his christmas clothes. He looked very handsome. We felt very bad for Quentin's (Oliver) Mom whose plane was cancelled Friday and was trying so hard to make it to the Friday show. We were so happy she made it to the cast party and was there for the final two performances on Saturday. She was very sweet giving Missy and I both pearl necklaces and earrings for watching out for her men on tour. She purchased them while on a business trip in Hong Kong. Mikey enjoyed chasing baby Spencer around at the cast party and had fun taking pictures of and with everyone. Since they still had two shows it did not hit him that the cast party was a goodbye party. Zac (Fagin) was very encouraging telling Mikey that he has the capabilities of becoming the next "Billy Elliot" if he works hard on dance and complimented him on his improv skills. Chaz (Mr. Bumble) provided some sound advice to him to keep him grounded. Ashley told him to make sure he has fun being a kid and playing with his sister. Rhiannon (Nancy) thinks he would be a great "Flounder" in The Little Mermaid and Mikey thinks she would be a great Ariel. I think he is just an amazingly loving and beautiful son and that is good enough for me. During the final performance Missy started first with the tears. I was glad I was sitting in front of her and not next to her. Her whole family was there to see Colin (Dodger) in his final performances in Oliver. We were sitting in front of the sound board so the crew guys gave us crazy hats to wear for the final bows. After the show we wore them back stage and the boys immediately stole them from us. I was doing fine until Mikey broke down and got everybody going with the tears. The real thing that got us all was baby Spencer saw Mikey crying and reach out to hug him with a cry himself. That did it! Tears were everywhere. Erin and Ashley both tried to reassure Mikey by putting their cell phone numbers in his cell. Erin text him on the spot that she missed him already. We continued our crying fest in the lobby of the hotel when Missy, John and I had to hug each other goodbye. The boys had a group hug that just made us cry more. As I reflect on this amazing journey I realize how fortunate we have been to have such good people as Missy, John, Colin and Quentin on this journey with us. I really feel we became a family that looked out for each other and hope we will remain life long friends. Missy became like a sister and John like a brother. Touring is very hard at times and to have someone to support you on the road like these two wonderful people did, helped me to stay on the "bus" when I thought about returning home early. Of course we also had our "Chaz." I couldn't abandoned him either. Mikey will miss all the cast but particularly his ladies. I don't know how their hair will survive without him. (LOL) He had his rituals: Erin and Mikey's special dance backstage during "As Long As he Needs Me." (Erin told me she finally let him lead.) On the bus after the show he would unravel Michele's curls that she needed in the show, give Erin new hair dos, put Rhiannon as his screen saver and tell Ashley all about his life and dreams. Of course he is devasted about leaving baby Spencer whom he became very close to. He told me he will miss Spencer most of all. I also don't know what he will do without Missy who he stalked regularly. I do know that we travelled to 35 plus States and Canada, visited Mt. Rushmore, Garden's of the God in Colorado, went on top of the St. Louis Arch, had a toga party, a school dance, 80's roller rink party and had some amazing times. I wish all the cast members much success and I know they have very bright futures because they are all sooooooooooooooo talented. The memories will last a life time and I hope the friendships will as well. Regarding my memory of this tour: "I WILL KEEP IT AS A TREASURE TO LAST MY WHOLE LIFE LONG............." Love and good luck to all of you. Love, Sue and Mikey
P.S. Don't forget to scroll down to see the photos and if you want to read the archives.

Reading, PA

2009-02-27T06:54:00.000-08:00

Mike (Dad) and Maria (Mikey's sister) joined us in Reading, PA. Maria was so exicted to see us as we were to see her. Mikey showered her with presents that we picked up along the last leg of the tour. We had a really, really, really, quick bite to eat at a diner before going to bus call to the theater. Maria was exicted to ride the bus and had a great time playing with Jeremiah (the tutor.) She had fun with the paper bag puppet he made. Baby Spencer was so cute learning Maria's name right away and say Hi every time he saw her. At first they weren't sure of each other because they were both competing for Mikey's attention. We enjoyed front row center seats so Maria had an unobstructed view of the show. Mikey was standing right in front of us when singing "Food Glorious Food," and "Be Back Soon." He couldn't help but crack a smile. He asked Maggie the wardrobe lady to allow him to wear his original red jacket for Maria. She gave him a brown jacket that was big on him about two months ago because the red jacket was tearing easy but Mikey really loves the red one. He was so happy to wear it again. Maria wore her red Christmas dress so that she could take a picture with "Nancy" (Rhiannon) who wears a red dress in the show. Maria loves when she sings "As Long As He Needs Me...." Although sitting up so close last night she really got a kick at of Fagin (Zac). Since she met most of the cast out of costume she as really studying who was playing who as the show went on. She kept asking me "Who plays Fagin." No one ever guesses Zac plays Fagin once he takes his makeup off. After the show Mike and Mikey went to get us Dunkin Donuts while Maria and I had some girl time together. She wore her new ""Ariel" night gown to bed. Today we had to part for two more days. I gave her a giant stuffed pink little pony to hug on the ride home. She promised to pick us up at the airport on Sunday and is so happy we are coming home. Now we are on the bus heading toward Akron, Ohio. We had to pick up the crew on the way because there bus broke down last night. They will really have their work cut out for them once we arrived.
We have to rush to get them there so there will be no lunch stop today. The boys will not be thrilled but it is just another part of tour life. "Be Back Soon."

Houghton, Michigan- Happy 100th Show!

2009-02-24T21:41:00.000-08:00

Happy 100th show to the Oliver National Tour 2008-09 cast and crew at the Rozsa Center! It is truly amazing how many shows were performed with such energy and talent as we traveled this great country and Canada. I am so proud of all of you. I have never saw such a talented group of people. It is hard to believe there are only four more shows to go and we won't be seeing everybody on a daily basis. Mikey will be in serious withdrawal, especially without all his ladies and tour brothers. Well to continue documenting this extraordinary journey I will report on todays activities. We spent the morning doing Math and then we met Baby Spencer and Clare by the pool for some water fun. The pool had all glass window from floor to ceiling so you could see all the high mounds of snow while swimming or sitting in the hot tub. Spencer was having a lot of fun in the kiddie pool with Mikey and I gave him few swimming lessons which he seemed to love. We had fun playing "Ring Around the Rosie" in the big pool like I use to do with Mikey when he was little. All I can say is this little boy has brought a lot of joy to everyone on tour. His giggle is something else and very contagious. A little later John and Q arrived and joined us all in the pool fun. Missy arrived in sweats wishing she had a bathing suit on so she could sit in the hot tub. While we were enjoying the pool and hot tub some of the cast made a makeshift sled and enjoyed some sledding. After showering we ate dinner at Apple Bees again because it was the easiest place to walk to with all the snow on the ground. Mikey completed three more sketches of the cast and gave Quentin (Oliver), Chris (Bill Sikes) and Will (Mr. Sowerberry and Dr.) their sketches on the bus. He did a special one for Quentin where he drew him in three different costumes on one page and included his different props throughout the sketch. Chris's was very interesting because it was the murder scene and her drew only Nancy's legs to depict the body. He really captured Will in his Funeral Scene costume and the expression on his face. Once again I cannot believe how talented he is in the art department. Michigan has mounds of snow everywhere and on the way to the theater we passed some amazing snow sculptures. One was even a giant snow castle.....that is how much snow accumulates here. Everyone from the cast was so happy to see the posters at the theater and programs actually had our cast on them. We all fell in love with the poster and the theater was kind enough to get us copies to bring home. Mikey was excited his photo was in two places even though he hates the one photo. I of course love both photos. After the show some of the cast went to Apple Bees. To celebrate Mikey's 100th performance in Oliver, I decided to treat him to a late night dessert. We enjoyed a delcious dessert that was absolutely to die for. It was a small chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce. The cake was warm and drizzled with chocolate syrup and vanilla. I could not finish mine but Mikey took care of that. (Okay I know if I am writing about dessert I will really need to check into Weight Watchers as soon as I get home.) Tomorrow we have an 630am load with a 7am roll so I should be really be sleeping instead of writing this but I want to keep it up our last few days. Once I get home I know I will have little time to do this. We are heading to Elyria, Ohio again as a stop over on the way to Reading, PA. We are looking forward to Reading because Maria (Mikey's little sister) and Mike (DAD) are coming to see us. Until tomorrow...................

Goodbye Merrillville, Indiana and Hello Houghton, Michigan

2009-02-23T20:19:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed the rest of our stay in Merrillville, Indiana. On Saturday we shopped at the Mall and thanks to Colin (Dodger) Mikey now likes Abercrombie. We bought him a pair of plaid shorts and a couple of tee-shirts that cost an arm and a leg! I am convinced they are so expensive because of there shopping bags. I'm not kidding you.....did you ever see them? They have thick wide cloth handles and a big picture of a perfectly muscled male model. I think you're paying for the bag instead of the shirt. Thank goodness I was literally saved by the bell when John called us during shopping to meet him and Q at the movie theater to see "Hotel Dogs." I told Mikey we can't shop anymore because we had to hurry to get to the movies. The walk from the Mall to the Movie theater was brutal. It was freezing, windy and a little dangerous. Nobody in any of these States we visit believe in side walks so you are literally risking your lives as you walk around. Crossing the street is a hazard. With snow everywhere and my boots still not ready for wearing thanks to the bus burglar, I was not a happy camper. However, the walk was worth it because we really had a few good laughs at the movies. I really knew I wasn't in New York when the ticket price was only three dollars and the price even included free popcorn. The soda refills were even free. After the movies we met up with Colin and Missy for dinner. (They had decided to skip the movie and keep shopping!) We ate in a place near the hotel called "Sheffields." The food was good but once again the walk was so cold. I really miss the warm weather states! After dinner we all enjoyed the pool and hot tub. After the pool we ran into Chaz and Allaggio and got in trouble for talking in the hallways. So an impromptu PJ Party sprung up in Missy and Colin's room. Chaz (Mr. Bumble) got into the spirit of things and came in his blue silk robe. Mikey made himself right at home in Missy' s very comfy bed. (LOL) Missy broke out the thirty dollar a bottle white zifandel that she bought at Olive Garden the night before. (She asked to buy a bottle of wine without asking the price!) I tried to refuse the wine but she made me have some! We had some fun and Chaz is always fun to be with. Mikey and Chaz were discussing who would get to be Nancy if a boy got to play her. Fierce competion between those two for the role! Chaz was also still traumatized by what happened to him when he went to a Catholic Church that day with some of the other cast members. Chaz is not Catholic but really missed Church so decided to go with other members of the cast. He wasn't sure if he was supposed to received communion but thought it would be disrespectful if he didn't. He asked the other cast members what to do and they told him how to hold his hands to receive but did not tell him to put the host in his mouth right away. So while we is walking back to his seat with the host in his hand one of the Woman who was giving the wine out chases him down and asked him if he is catholic. When he says no she actually grabs the host out of his hand and chastises him and the cast members he was sitting with. Poor Chaz, we tried to tell him not all Catholic's behave that way. Some of the parishioners actually came up to him and said they were sorry to him. On Sunday, there was a matinee show and the parents really had fun because we sat in the front seats dead center trying to see if we can break any cast members. Mikey spotted us right away during "Food Glorious, Food." We tried to break him but he just smiled from ear to ear. Erin and Will spotted us and tried to sell us some sausages. The parents were also excited when we bought soda and popcorn and the cashier gave it to us free because we were wearing backstage passes. I can tell you this is the only theater that did that for us. After the show there was a Question and Anwser with some audience members. Mikey was thrilled when the moderation stated "He heard one of the cast members got started when they tried out for their talent show in kindergarten without telling his Mom." So Mikey told his story.....he was so cute and I think the audience got a real kick out of him. I was amazed how poised and confident the three boys were while anwsering questions from the audience. The parents also enjoyed listening and learning from the adult cast members when they anwsered the audience's questions. It was also good for the boys to hear. Mikey really enjoyed it. After the Q and A we went to dinner with the Nims, Araujos, Rhiannon (Nancy) and Chaz (Mr. Bumble.) to "Red Lobster." Missy and I had steak with lobster tails that was unbelievably good. (VERY RITZY) The desserts were also awesome. We had good food, good company and good conversation. Today, we had to be on the bus at 730am and we arrived in Houghton 845pm. A long bus ride but everyone made the best of it. After school we watched the movie "Clue." The kids all seemed to really like it. Then the adults, kids and parents played "Catch Phrase." It was the music edition. Everyone had a lot of fun guessing the songs. When we finally got off the bus there was snow everywhere on the ground and we trekked to AppleBees after dropping our luggage in the room. Tomorrow we can sleep a little because the show is not until the evening. Only 5 shows left! Until tomorrow..................

Good Morning from Merrillville, Indiana

2009-02-21T08:57:00.000-08:00

We arrived in Merrillville, Indiana about 330pm yesterday afternoon. The bus ride felt short compared to the day before. On the way here we stopped for a nice lunch in Apple Bees with Missy, Colin (Dodger), Rhiannon (Nancy), Chaz (Mr. Bumble) and Zac (Fagin.) Rhiannon had to do an interview about the show with an Indiana newspaper as she ate via phone. The reporter asked her what she was eating. I was very impressed in how she anwsered the questions the reporter asked. I was glad we had the opportunity to lunch with them because we only have a week left. In many ways this tour was very long and in other ways it seems it went to fast and I can't believe there is only one week left. Zac says he may have an Oscar party on Sunday which could be a lot of fun. After arriving at the hotel yesterday we had a chance to relax a little before going to dinner with John, Q, Missy, and Colin. The receptionist at the hotel warned us about purse snatching the the mall area so we decided to leave our purses at the hotel and just take a credit card. (John really did not want to leave his purse! LOL only kidding.) The hotel has a Mall which is a short walk but to get there you have to risk your life crossing some highways. Of course there are no sidewalks. We walked to Olive Garden which must be the most happening place because we were told it was a hour wait. The boys were not thrilled with this and their faces were a study in brooding! Missy and I were determined to eat there so we decided to wait and have a glass of wine. The restaurant bar was in the same area where everyone was waiting except that had a low iron fence to separate the area a little. The boys were not to happy when they were told they had to wait on the other side of the fence and could not be near the bar. Hey, with there brooding face it worked for us to have them 3 ft away from us! Even when we left the people were still crowding in waiting. The meal was delcious and it turned out the wait was only about a half hour and the boys ended up loving the place as we knew they would. The meal put everyone in a good mood again so when we went back to the hotel we all went in the heated pool and hot tub. The kids had fun and the parents relaxed. Today we are all sleeping a little late before we plan to go to the mall. It is snowing so the walk maybe even more challenging today. I will let you know later................Now I am helping Mikey with Math.

Elryia, Ohio

2009-02-19T20:02:00.000-08:00

Today was a long bus ride. We left Maryland at 9am and arrived in Elyria, Ohio at around 830pm. If any one sees the tin man tell him I need his oil can for my joints! The kids worked hard in school on the bus today and then everyone watched the movie "Ghost Busters." We stopped for lunch in Cracker Barrel where Mikey bought Maria a big pink Easter Bunny that sings: I Love You a Bushel and a Peck, a Bushel and a Peck and hug around the neck...... He plans to give it to her next week when they come to the show in Reading, PA. We went through just about every kind of weather on our drive here: Hard rain, snow, sunshine, fog, sunshine and snow again. The bus stopped to gas and we went into a Pilot store where Jen pointed out to stuff animal puppets: A monkey with a shirt that said "Cheeky Charlie," and a dog that had a pirate hat that said "Captain." Since Charlie is the role Mikey plays in Oliver and Captain is the role another cast member (Allaggio) plays I could not resist buying them the puppets. They will be forming their own puppet Fagin's Gang with Missy's puppet that sings the Carpenter's hit song, "Close To You." Once we arrived I spoke to the front desk about the best place to eat at this late hour and asked how far a walk it was. We caught a huge break because she offered to use the hotel van to drive us to Apple Bees and pick us up from there in an hour and a half. I was so happy because we were tired and hungry and it was snowing. We had a nice dinner with Q and John and now are relaxing in the room. Now I am going to bed. Good night!

Hello from Salisbury, Maryland

2009-02-18T21:46:00.000-08:00

Today we actually travelled through the Bronx on the way to Maryland. I was very tempted to hop off the bus and go home since we were so close. I am a person who never likes to break a commitment so we will finish this out. Only 10 days to go and 6 shows left! The bus ride today was longer then planned. We only had an half hour lunch and sat with Chaz (Mr. Bumble and Rhiannon.) They are fellow New Yorkers and were tempted to jump out at the Bronx too. I think as much as we all can't wait to get home everyone is getting a little melancoly about leaving each other. Once we arrived at the hotel there was only about a 45 minutes to shower and eat before bus call to the theater. Mikey at some Mac an Cheese (thank goodness the hotel had a microwave in the room.) Quentin and John were excited because Q's two Grandmothers, Grandfather, friends, and his adorable sister Reina came to the show tonight. Q's friend Eric who is also 11 years old is a member of the Virginia Opera house. Talent kids are all around! Reina was Tiny Tim in a Christmas Carol in Virgina's Regional Theater this past Christmas. Reina and Mikey hit it off at the auditions and now everytime she visits the show they are like long lost friends! They are less than a year apart so I think they think alike! She is a lot shorter than Mikey but was able to pick him up when he could not pick her up. He is so skinny! I got to meet Gayle's (Q, Mom) mother and father for the first time. They really enjoyed the show and it was nice talking to them in the hotel lobby. Well, I would really like to tell you a little about Maryland but I can't because now, I have to confess that I did not go to the show tonight because...............you guessed it....................LAUNDRY! I couldn't put it off anymore. The good news is: I think I will not have to do anymore laundry on tour. I have enough clean clothes to last until we get home. This exites me to no end, especially since I have a brand new front load washer and dryer just waiting for me at home!!!! Now those of you that read my blog know I have been traumatized by visiting certain laundromats along the way so you will know how happy this makes me. I made the most of my night getting all the laundry done and then packing my final bag to bring home. Mikey and Maria are coming to Reading, PA on February 26th to see the show and I plan to give him all the luggage except what I need for the two days in Akron where the show closes. This way we can travel light at the airport. Tomorrow we travel to a stop over in Elyria, Ohio on the way to Merrillville, IN. So we will be travelling without shows for two days and then have a Golden Day before they perfom a show in IN. Three days without shows! After that we will travel to Houghton, MI for a show. Goodnight!

Springfield, MA

2009-02-18T21:26:00.000-08:00

On February 17th, we arrived in Springfield, MA. We joined the Nims and Araujos for our normal food mission. Luckily he was not freezing because we had to walk a little over 1/2 mile to find decent food. The walk was interesting because we had to walk under an underpass by the bus terminal. The boys were very excited because they saw so many discarded "Gin" bottles that they began to count them as we walked. ( In the show Fagin tells "Charlie" (Mikey) to shut up and drinks your gin! Mikey usually smiles and shakes his head up and down holding up the gin bottle. This always causes the audience to laugh. Fagin later gives Oliver (Quentin) gin and he spits it out.) Hence why they enjoyed counting real gin bottles. All I can say is Springfield needs to send sanitation to clean up the mess! Anyway....as usual we were not sure where we were going when we spotted a visitors center. I think the old guy in there was thrilled....it appeared we were his first customers in years. He gave us directions to a great Italian Restaurant that was only a few blocks away and a few blocks from the theater. Missy quickly called Clare the tour manager to tell her we would not be on the bus and would walk to the theater for the show. We really enjoyed the food which had huge portions. Q had plenty of pizza left over so they boxed it for after the show. Last night the parents got to meet Jen's Mom who was very excited to see Jen perform as Dodger. Colin (the normal Dodger) is this amazingly generous boy who let his understudy go on. so her Mom can see her. Jen did an amazing job and she was so fun to watch. I sat behind Colin and Missy and really enjoyed watching Colin's face watching Jen and Missy's face watching Colin. He was so happy for Jen and proud of her and I could tell how proud Missy was of Colin. After the show Colin was very sweet giving Jen a chocolate rose and today Mikey gave her the sketch he drew of her. He only has a few cast members left to sketch and he has been doing amazing work. In addition to sketching the cast in their costumes he now has begun sketching some of the ladies as "Me Dolls." Theses sketches are suppose to capture their personality. He did one of Erin (Ms. Sowerberry) and she has posted it as her profile shot on facebook. Stacie loved it so much she put a special order in and he sketched he as a "Me Doll." He put many of the themes of the tour in that sketch. (Oliver Marquee, Bail Bonds, Walmart, Drugs, Searching for cellphone signals, etc.....) Now it is off to Salisbury, Maryland

Our last day in Lowell, MA

2009-02-16T20:35:00.000-08:00

Today Mikey and I went to the local Dunkin Donuts for "Brunch.") It is the same place we went to yesterday that has only a few tables. Apparently there is a group of seniors that regularly hang out at the tables and were not to thrilled with newcomers taking their seats. So we ate fast. (LOL) Then we shopped at CVS to get these chocolate covered pretzels that Mikey discovered yesterday and loved. After that we went to get him a haircut so his hair is nice when he returns to school on March 2nd. It was a little scary when the hairdresser used a flow-bee to begin the haircut. Never seen anything like it! Thanks goodness he looked pretty cute when it was finished. After our stroll we were going to swim and go in the hot tub but it was closed for painting. I thought they meant for the whole day but later found out from Q and John that it later opened. We spent the rest of the afternoon working on Math and Religion and then went to dinner in the hotel with John and Q. Missy and Colin enjoyed their "Golden Day" having room service delivered to the room. Today, Mike and Maria went to O'Neils to celebrate my sister's (Aunt Mary) birthday. Maria is feeling better and sounded wonderful on the phone. I hope to see her next Thursday in Reading, PA. Until tomorrow........................Good Night!

Good Evening from Lowell, MA

2009-02-15T19:30:00.000-08:00

After sleeping a little late today we went to Dunkin Donuts to breakfast with Missy, Colin, Q, and John. We did try walking to a diner but it was closed. Then we walked to the Lowell Memorial Auditorium for the matinee show. Missy and I met a little boy named Brendan and his Mom in the ladies room. We noticed how enthusiastic he was about ACT I so I told him that we were the mother's of Dodger and Charlie. He was asking us a bunch of questions about the show and his Mom was asking us about touring life. Then we parted because Brendan was anxious to get his popcorn before the show started again. After Act I, Brendan and his Mom found us and asked if could meet the cast. We promised him that we would try to get some of the cast members to meet him. If was pretty funny because he especially wanted to meet Jack Dawkins and asked if Missy was his Mom. Missy and I were so fried that we forgot that "Dodger" is Jack Dawkins. It took us a minute. Mikey was the first dressed so I brought him up to meet Brendan. Then Brendan wanted to meet Mr. Bumble so I tracked down Chaz. He was so excited to see Colin and kept telling everyone that is Jack Dawkins. He gave Mr. Bumble a big hug. He told us his favorite part was when Mr Bumble bangs on the coffin and shouts "Oliver....are you in there." He did a good impression of Mr. Bumble. I tried to track down as many as the cast as I could for him but there was a reception at the theater so we did not get everyone. He was very happy in the end because he also got to meet Rhiannon (Nancy), Quentin (Oliver), Melissa (Bet, Charlotte), Allaggio (Noah). The cast all signed his program for him. Brendan is an awesome boy who thoroughly enjoyed the show and we were all so happy to meet him and his Mom. After we said goodbye to Brendan we went up to the reception where they had drinks and food. The cast mingled with some of the audience members that came to the reception. The boys always enjoy chatting with audience members. After the reception we went back to the hotel and did our typical "Drop and Go" routine. We drop all our bags and then go find a place to eat dinner. We enjoyed the Italian restaurant we ate in last night so much that we went back tonight. Chaz (Mr. Bumble) joined, John, Q, Missy, Mikey and I for dinner. Colin choose to chill in the hotel room. We all had fun chatting with Chaz and laughing with him at dinner. After dinner we return to the hotel where Mikey has been sketching like mad. He gave his sketches of Fagin, Mr. Sowerbury, Bill Sikes and Noah to Zac, Will, Chris and Allaggio today. He also did a phenomenal sketch of Erin shopping. The details were incredible. Tonight he drew Quentin and is working on something for Stacie. Right now we are in the hotel room and Q very excitedly just knocked on our door to tell us that Oliver Twist is on Channel 2. So guess what we are doing.................I must be out of my mind but we are actually watching Oliver Twist the movie. HELP!!!!!!!

Morganton, North Carolina to Lowell, MA hAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

2009-02-14T19:37:00.000-08:00

LOVE IS IN THE AIR.......EVERYWHERE YOU LOOK AROUND.......HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!We spent two nights in Morganton, North Carolina. It almost felt like a day off because the kids had the whole day off until bus call at 5:45pm. We were very excited because the hotel was right next to Walmart and Denny's. I bought Mikey a new Mario Party Game to replace the one that was stolen when a burglar ransacked and stole items from our tour bus. Last night Mikey and Q played little cupids on the bus for the cast: Mikey gave out crazy colored Valentine's Day socks and Q gave us all Valentine's Day hearts with candy. Somebody also secretly decorated the bus with red balloons and crape paper while the show was going on. As of last night the secret Valentine's Day decorator was not revealed. Mikey bought baby Spencer a farm shape sorter that Spencer loved. I went to take it off the bus for him to help Clare and he pointed and yelled like I was stealing his toy(LOL).....so I had to take Spencer off the bus too! He is really too cute. We also had the pleasure of meeting Missy's sister Cindy and her husband Gary who came to the show last night and stayed at the hotel. We really enjoyed our time getting to know them in Missy's room after the show, especially since Missy supplied the "Zin." LOL. Gary was doing a good job trying to convince me to move to Tennesee and I was trying to get some secrets about Missy growing up from Cindy. (Missy threw a pillow out me!) Today we flew to Boston to get to Lowell, while the rest of the cast has a two day bus trip to get to Lowell, MA. Lucky my NYPD ID got me on the plane since my license is still lost. Maria's medicine is working and she is feeling better every day. Today, I sent Maria a rose plant and Sad Sam and his girlfriend Honey. (Stuff animals.) Honey has a red bow in her hair. My Mom told me that when the florist delivered them Maria said, "This is the perfect Valentines Day present." I am so happy she liked it and only wish I was home with her. After arriving in Lowell we went with the Nims and Araujos to an early dinner at a nice Italian Restaurant for a Valentines Day dinner. The food was delicious. Then we were all full and exhausted and retired to our rooms to relax. Tomorrow they kids have sound check at 1:30pm. There is no night show and we are off on Monday and staying at this hotel. The hotel is nice and has an indoor pool and hot tub which we plan to use tomorrow and Monday. I want to congratulate my sister Maureen on passing her "Wall Street" test. Only 20% of the people taking the exam passed. I am so proud of her. Well I hope everyone is having a lovely Valentines Day! XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOOXOXOXOXOOXOXOXOOX

Good Riddance to Jinxville!

2009-02-12T10:52:00.000-08:00

We had another really rough night. Maria's cough persisted even though I have been nebulizing her regularly. The cough kept waking her up. For the past couple of days she would wake up and tell me "Momma can I tell you something? I'm sick." It broke my heart. I was really upset when they had to leave for the airport and we had to get on the bus. I felt so bad. Mike and I did not get a wink of sleep, I also felt bad for him having to travel alone with Maria when she was feeling so poorly. He just told me they landed in New York and he is going to take her to the doctor. I told Maria to call Mommy to tell her what the doctor says. Jacksonville just continued to be Jinxville for me. If Maria being sick wasn't hard enough about 4am in the morning my nose started to drip as if it was a faucet. (Sorry don't mean to be gross just illustrating my point.) The misery continued this morning when I discovered my license missing this morning. The kids and parent are being flown to Boston on Saturday to avoid a two day bus trip. I am hoping I can fly on a plane without my license, if not we will have a long bus ride ahead.

Jacksonville Blues!

2009-02-11T17:06:00.000-08:00

Hello from my hotel room in Jacksonville. Maria is still sick and I have been staying with her 24/7. Mike took Mikey, Colin, John and Quentin to the movies last night without us. They went to see Coraline in 3D. They all loved it. Last night was another tough night with poor Maria coughing all night. We were supposed to take her to see the 10am show today and had fifth row dead center seats. Unfortunately, she was too sick to go. I felt so bad for her because she was looking forward to seeing the show again. She really likes "As Long As He Needs Me." She perked up a little this afternoon so we went to Apple Bees for lunch. I thought getting out of the room and into the Florida sunshine would be good for her. Turns out it was not a good idea. The cough made her feel like she had to throw up and she would keep wanting to go into the bathroom or sleep on my lap. She is sleeping now peacefully and I hope she feels better since her and Mike travel back to NY tomorrow. He will be bringing her to the doctor first thing. Today when the cast got on the bus for the morning show they discovered the bus was ransacked and Mikey's DS and all his games were stolen. Colin had money taken out of his wallet and everyones stuff was opened and thrown around. They threw the ALL liquid detergent from an over head bin and the cap broke and the sticky liquid spilt on my seat and floor area. I am really hoping it is not in my boots. I am out the point that I can't wait to leave Jacksonville....it is starting to feel like Jinxville to me. I had such high hopes for the good time we would have here. Mike and Mikey are at the evening show and I have to start packing for the long ride tomorrow. Everyone pray that my little angel feels better soon.

Hello from Jacksonville, Florida

2009-02-10T13:17:00.000-08:00

"Reunited and it feels so good." If only Maria felt good....poor baby. Mike and Maria joined us in Jacksonville. We spent a nice relaxing day at the beach yesterday. It was sunny and in the 70's. Clare arranged for the bus to take us all to the beach. The boys had a great time becoming Florida Polar Bears. Their tutor Jerimiah joined them for some cold fun in the water. They enjoyed the water and the sand. Mikey and Colin buried Quentin and turned him into a Mer-Man. Little Spencer joined them later to play in the water and sand. His laugh could be heard loud and clear all over the beach. Poor Maria starting coughing the night before and was so exhausted she slept the whole time we were on the beach as well as in the restaurant. We ate at a place called "Sneakers." Everyone was exhausted after the beach and since we had a late lunch we just skipped dinner and relaxed in the room. Poor Maria had another tough night and she has been sleeping most of today. I feel so bad for her because I know she would have enjoyed the beach. Mike and Mikey went to the Museum of Science and History on a school field trip with the tutor and Nims and Araujos. They enjoyed the Planeterium at the Museum. Mike is now taking Mikey to see his old Naval Base. He was stationed here 30 years ago when he was in the Navy. I am hoping Maria feels up to going out later for some dinner and a movie.

Clemson, South Carolina

2009-02-08T14:13:00.000-08:00

I am writing this from the bus as we head to Jacksonville. The show was in Clemson, South Carolina last night. Lucky the hotel we stayed in last night was clean and had great beds. It made up for the night before. Everybody really needed a good night sleep after losing so much the night before. After the show last night we were happy KFC was opened since nobody was hungry for dinner before the show. We are so happy to be heading for Jacksonville where we will reunite with Dad and Maria. They are visiting us on tour this week. They are already at the hotel waiting for us so I keep hoping Larry our bus driver steps on the gas a little harder! I talked to Maria on the phone and she is so happy. Last night Maria and Daddy went to see Willy Wonka at the Rockaway Theater Company. She wanted to see Reilly playing the role of Charlie. Today we had lunch at Walmart in South Carolina and then I found the perfect bathing suit and cover up for Maria. I was so happy because I have been looking for a new one for her. There was only one problem......apparently where we were in South Carolina has some "Blue Laws" that will not allow them to sell items other than from the grocery section until 130pm. They let you browse in the store but when you go to the cash register you can't buy the items. I miss New York where the city never sleeps! They did allow me to buy Maria new princess underwear. Apparently you can buy groceries and undergarments before 130pm. I tried to get the lady to sell me the color t-shirts I picked out for myself under the theory that they are undergarments but she did not buy the theory. Guess I will be shopping in Jacksonville. I am excited they we will have a car to get around in. The tour is really winding down now....only twelve more shows. I am thrilled we will be home for good soon but another part of me is panicking about going back to all the responsibilities of "real life." Sitting on the bus with nothing to do is very peaceful at times..............

Statesboro, Georgia

2009-02-06T21:46:00.000-08:00

Hello from Georgia. We were suppose to stay in the Ramada but unfortunately for us they some how lost the reservation for the whole cast. Sooooooooooo.....we are staying in a hotel that is giving me flashback to the Galveston Hotel. It is one of the hotels where the cast rather sleep on the bus then in the hotel room. I personally have not seen any bugs this time but other cast members have seen some in their room. If that isn't enough keep me awake there is a gang of youngsters having a keg party and blaring loud music from there car right outside my hotel room door. It is not bothering Mikey....he is out like a light. Missy and Colin showed us there room where everyone believes the strange brown spots on her ceiling may be from......let me put it this way....number 2! Yes, number 2! (LOL) I tried to make her feel better and told her it could be rust from the ceiling fan, after all....what are friends for! Ordering dinner was also interesting. We had a "Sonic" drive thru next to the hotel. Only one problem.....no car. The have all these separate parking spots with speakers to order. We stood where cars normally pull up to park and then the waitress brings the food out to you. It was pretty funny after the show when half the cast were standing in all these spots ordering. We had some excitement before the show. Fifteen minutes before show time the theater had to be evacuated. The fog machine caused to much smoke in the theater and the fire department responded. Mikey was nervous at first but quickly got over it once outside. The cast all had to go outside in various stages of make up and costume. Chaz was the best in his robe, as was Stacie with her long bloomers. Rhiannon was caught with curlers in her hair. Jen and Erin had fun posing in front of the fire truck as did the boys. The show was delayed by a half hour or so but then finally went on. Mikey and I worked on Math during intermission. I now remember how to determine the Greatest Common Factor and equivalent fractions. We both liked these better than long division! Now I am trying to decide if I should leave the television on to block the noise or to try going to sleep with the noise. Neither option is great for a light sleeper. On a better note I spoke to Maria today. She had a pancake PJ party in school today. Daddy helped the kids make the pancakes. She really had fun. Tomorrow Mike is taking her to see Reilly in "Willy Wonka" at the Rockaway Theater Company. Reilly is playing Charlie and Mikey is so happy for her. He called her today before the show to tell her to "Break a Leg." I can't wait until Sunday because Mike and Maria are joing us in Jacksonville, Florida. We have a couple of days off there and two shows. So we will have time to spend together and they will also be able to see the show again. Okay I am starting to ramble so I will say goodnight......

Where HAVE I been?

2009-02-06T10:32:00.000-08:00

Well since I last wrote we have been to Springfield, Ohio, Williamsport, PA, Ogdensburg, NY, two locations in Canada: Kingston, Ontario and St. Johns, New Brunswick, HOME and Gainesville, Florida. It is really hard to keep up when you are doing one nighters and then the computer did not cooperate in Canada. Of course when I was home I did not want to do any writing. I will try to do a quick recap of the places. In Springfield, Ohio, the show was peformed at the Clark State Peforming Arts Center. Erin went on to play the role of Nancy in front of her home town audience and Michelle went on for Erin as Mrs. Sowerberry. Ashley filled in and did an awesome job as "Old Sally." We were staying at the Court Yard Marriot and her parents gave a reception for the cast after the show. A good time was had by all and we thank Erin's parents for being so generous. They also had a huge cake with the cast photo on it. Mikey was very excited to get the piece with the picture of him in his pirate costume. I told him I can finally bite his head off without feeling bad. Mikey was acting like the papparazzi at the party with his new camera. I am not sure we will be posting some of the pictures on facebook! In Williamsport PA, the show was held at the Community Arts Center. Aunt Terry (Mike's Sister) came to see the show and stayed over with us in the Genetti Hotel. We got lucky and had a bigger than normal room. Q wanted to know how come we got a suite! It wasn't a suite but it was a nice size room. We had a nice dinner with Aunt Terry and then after the show she treated the parents to a carafe of wine in our nice room. John and Q came briefly but had to leave when the pizza man was looking all over the hotel for them! (LOL) Aunt Terry really enjoyed the show and told Mikey she was so happy she got to see him. We loved having her. It is so much fun to have vistors on tour. In Ogdensburg, NY, Colin's Dad visited along with other family members and friends. It was snowing and looked like a winter wonderland. Then it was off to Canada in the snow storm. It got really exciting when we crossed the border and Melissa was taken off the bus because she had "Bedazzle" pepper spray. Her Mom gave her the pepper spray and painted the can pink. She also wrote some interesting sayings on the can. I am sure she made the Officers day and he had a story to share that day. They confiscated her bedazzle and let her return to the bus without to much delay. I would like to say we saw a lot in Canada but all we saw was:SNOW, SNOW, SNOW! In St. Johns I was wishing it was nicer weather because they offer "Whale" boating tours. Unfortunately, we were not there in nice weather. The snow piles were about 6 to 7 feet high and there were no side walks. The hotel had a restaurant so we did not venture far because when you walked in the street there were huge puddles. When cars drove by there would be a wave of water coming at you. Mikey and I flew home with a bunch of the cast from NY on Sunday. We had to get up at 3am but were home by 11am. We were very excited to be home and when Maria came running at us in the airport screaming I knew the money spent on the tickets to return home was worth every penny. Mikey got to spend time with Reilly and Janna and see some of his classmates by the school yard. He really enjoyed spending time at the Rockaway Theater company and seeing all his friends rehearsing for "Willie Wonka" which is opening tonight. Reilly is playing Charlie and Mikey is so proud and excited for her. Time home was short but we tried to do a lot. Mikey's cousins Luke and Maria and I got to spend some girl time together. After picking her up from school we had lunch and then went for manicures together. Mikey and Maria had an afternoon of playing with play-doh together and had fun wrecking my kitchen. Mike and I got to go on a date with Maureen and Al to Zum Stamtisch while Mikey and Maria played at Aunt Mary's with Kasey. Kasey baskeball team beat Mary Louis Academy! Since Mikey was kidnapped by the Charles family on his last night home, Mike and I took Maria to a nice dinner at Prima Pasta. Of course first we had to go and buy a "Washing Machine." I still cannot believe with all my laundry troubles on the road that when I went home my washer broke. Somebody up there has a good sense of humor! Yesterday, we flew back and joined the rest of the cast in Gainesville, Florida. Of course Florida in under a "Freeze." The show last night was in the Phillips Performing Arts Center in the University of Florida. Chaz (Mr. Bumble) was very excited because his Dad was coming to the show. Mikey and Colin (Dodger) participated with some of the adult members of the cast in a Q and A with the audience. Mikey and Colin were given hand held microphones to hold and their smiles were beaming from ear to ear. They were very cute and really enjoyed talking with the audience. One member asked Mikey what his wires were for in his hair and on his back. He was really funny trying to explain it. "He told him it was to make his voice lounder." When another audience member asked how the kids got involved in shows, Mikey told them he tried out for his talent show in kindergarten without telling his mom. He told them "My mom heard about it in the bagel shop!" Actually his kindergarten teacher (Mrs. Smith) approached me in the deli, but I was standing next to the bagels (LOL) . He also told them about how our Mr. Bumble (Chaz) told him about the auditon. It was so funny because Chaz walked in just as he mentioned him. Missy and I turned red and almost fell over when a gentlemen stood up and told us he reads our blogs and complimented us on them. I really felt guilty about being behind in my writing after that. This is probably why I am feverishly updating it today! We were teasing the kids that we had fans! Today, we had a nice lunch at Ruby, Tuesdays (Don't ask me where) with Erin, Michele, John and Q. Missy and Colin ditched us to grab the sales at the Mall. Now we are back on the bus on the way to Statesboro, Georgia. Hopefully, we have a place to sleep. Clare is trying to straighten out a snafu with the hotel who forgot we were coming today!

Goodnight from Kalamazoo, Michigan

2009-01-24T19:15:00.000-08:00

Today, Mikey performed in a Matinee at West Michigan University. The cast was thrilled to see a huge billboard advertising Oliver on the highway. It has the picture of Colin and Q from "Consider Yourself." Missy has posted it on her facebook. The theater was huge and had a full house. After the show we went to dinner at Brewsters with our tour family (Missy, John, Colin and Q.) We trekked back through the snow singing songs from the 70's and 80's. I was on a brief roll actually knowing who sung some of the songs. Tonight the Da Vinci Code is on TV and Mikey is totally facinated with it. I told him make sure he does not quote the theories back at St. Frances De Sales School (LOL). He spoke to his Dad on the phone so he could understand the plot better. Now I am getting ready to pack again because we leave 830 tomorrow morning for Springfield, Ohio. It is very cold here and I think it is going to be even colder there. Mikey has been working on his sketch of Zac playing Fagin. I think it is his most interesting one yet. He had Zac posing at intermission in the green room so he could study his makeup. He is becoming a very serious artist! I will be very happy when I don't have to pack every night and drag luggage every morning. The tour is starting to wind down. One of the crew today said we have 21 more shows left. It seems so little a number yet March seems so far off. Tomorrow we are in Erin's (Mrs. Sowerberry and Old Sally) hometown and her parents are throwing a reception for the cast after the show. Everyone is looking forward to that. We just spoke to Maria and Mike a few minutes ago to wish them good night. I can't wait to tuck my little girl into bed again. I am looking forward to flying home for a few days the first week of February. I miss the other half of my family sooooooooooooooooo much!

Hello from Kalamazoo, Michigan

2009-01-23T19:03:00.000-08:00

Today, we had a more human bus call (11am). This is good because several of the cast members are under the weather. I am happy to report that baby Spencer is feeling better. We all felt so bad for him yesterday afternoon. He bounced back pretty quick last night and was having Mikey chase him down the hotel hallway. Mikey has been giving him all the love an attention that he can't give his baby sister Maria. Mikey has decided to follow in Colin's footsteps and start learning from Chris (Bill Sikes) how to do pushups, pullups, situps and jump rope. He is very funny because he thinks he has already gained muscles and decided to show them off by carrying Clare's big suitcase up the hotel stairs last night. (One of those hotel's we hate: no elevator.) It was only a three hour drive to this hotel in Kalamazoo, so if felt like a piece of cake compared to all the long rides we had. After Mikey finished his homework we went with Colin, Missy, Allaggio(Noah) to grab a bite to eat. This is another state that does not believe in sidewalks. There are snow piles 5-6 feet high so walking in the street was a little scary. We always seem to have to risk our lives to find food on this tour. We went to a nice place called Brewsters which luckily was not to far of a walk. It is suppose to get even colder the next few days so I am not looking forward to that. I think that Brewster's walk will feel longer once the temperture drops. Missy and I stayed back tonight to do laundry. It is a sad thing when the most exciting thing is that the hotel has a washer machine and dryer. It is amazing how quickly laundry piles up and you just don't want to miss an opportunity to do it when you can. We are happy that we are in this hotel for two nights. These one-nighters are wearing. All you do is pack in the morning, upack at night and then pack back up again the next morning. The worst is that I haven't been able to fall asleep lately until 230am. It wouldn't be so bad if I could sleep on the bus but so far it has been a struggle. Mikey is still loving every minute of it and still has the glow on his face when he is performing. I can see he is going to have a tough time when he has to say good-bye to the cast at the end of the tour. He has been presenting each cast member during the tour with a sketch of them in costume. He finished his sketch of Colin's (Dodger) and gave it to him the other day. Colin has it hanging up on his bus window. I am truly amazed at the details he puts into his sketches. I told him he has to pick up the pace with his sketching because the tour is winding down. I am really pleased by all the sketching he is doing. He has been creating characters for plays that so far are only going on in his head and not written down. He has his "DS" with him but he mostly sketches. This kid got talent from somewhere....but it certainly wasn't from me! I was happy to talk to Maria who was excited about a sleep over at Uncle Jim's and JoJo's house. she told me about all the fun she had at cousin Skye's house. She played with Luke, Johnny and Skye on the trampoline. She loves going to Skye's! Mike is preparing for another Polar Bear Party with his work friends on Sunday. You would think New Day was enough for him, but no he is crazy! Mikey should be arriving back from the show any minute now, so I will say good-night.

Muncie, Indiana

2009-01-22T18:30:00.000-08:00

We left Iowa and are in Muncie, Indiana. The front desk man in Iowa told us the big news in Iowa was that a cow froze to death when the cold front moved in. That is until the Oliver National Tour arrived! We woke up and there was a great review of the show in the daily newspaper. Not too much happening in Muncie, Indiana either. We are here for a one-nighter. We arrived at the hotel and Mikey jumped right into the shower. While in the shower the light above it popped and started to smoke. (I guess he may have hit one of his high notes,LOL.) We were lucky because at first we did not realize what the noise was and that there was actually glass in the tub with him. The hotel manager was nice and immediately changed our room. After "Mike Check," Mikey was thrilled to participate with other members of the cast in a Q and A with students at Ball University. It was a lot of fun for him. I think we hit another theater with a phantom in it. Either that or it followed us from the hotel room. There were some sound problems with the opening number "Food Glorious Food." You couldn't hear the beginning of the song as the kids marched out. Later the lights went out on stage. Baby Spencer and a few of the cast members got sick. Hopefully, tomorrow everyone will feel better. After the show the kids got to meet their California tutor's (Kevin Moll) parents. They came to see the show and wanted to say hello for Kevin. Kevin was a great tutor for them and would share his "Rumis" game with them. When Kevin left to tour he forgot "Rumis" and the boys have been so worried about getting it back to him because they knew it was special to him. Many of the kids he has tutor have enjoyed the game. Unfortunately, the game box got a little beat up being stored under the bus with the luggage since it has been under there so long. However, it is finally in safe hands. Colin saved the day by running to the bus and working hard to find the game so that Kevin's parents can give it back to him. Kevin's dad called Kevin in Californina and each of the boys got to talk to him. They all looked so cute while they were talking to him on the phone. I had to tell each of them to hurry up because our bus was about to leave us. We also bid a fond farewell to Clare's (tour manager) mom. She traveled with us for a week to spend time with baby Spencer. He really seemed to enjoy her visit. On another front: Shout out to my nephew Sean on getting into St. Francis Prep High School!

Hello from Burlington, Iowa

2009-01-21T19:31:00.000-08:00

"Oh, there's nothing half way about the Iowa way to treat you when we treat you which we may not do at all......We can be cold as a falling thermometer in December if you ask about the weather in July and where so by-gone stubborn we stand touching noses for a week and half and never see eye to eye.............." (For you Music Man fans).
I guess you can guess by now where we are. "IOWA." We arrived here for a one-nighter. The hotel is nice and has a hottub and pool. John, Q, Mikey and I had a lovely walk through the snow piles to get something to eat. (apparently IOWA does not believe in side walks) Thank goodness after Waukegan, Il nothing else seems cold. The walk actually felt good after spending so much time on the bus. Not too much going on today. Iowa's landscape looks very flat and varied from a wheat colored barren grass to areas with white snow. Of course where we are staying the ground is covered with snow. The people were getting a little mad at us for walking rather than driving. Since we did not have the luxury of having a car we paid no attention to them. Tomorrow we have a 7am bus call and are heading to Muncie, Indiana. Love to all. Mikey and Sue

Hello from Missouri

2009-01-20T19:30:00.000-08:00

Our wonderful tour manager (Clare) gave us time to stop at the St. Louis Arch yesterday. We were so happy because we passed it in our travel several times but never had the opportunity to stop. The kids enjoyed getting in the elevator that looks like a little spaceship with 5 seats and riding to the top. The Arch is 650feet and overlooks the Mississippi River. You could see the city and the river from the top of the arch. You could see the ice floating in the river and you could also see the stadium. Mikey was using his new camera to snap photo after photo. He layed on the ground under the arch and took photos. We are happy again because we will be staying in the same hotel for tonights again. We had a nice dinner in the sports bar and rested the first night because there was no show. Today, Mikey and I enjoyed having the heating swimming pool all to ourselves. After swimming went to the Mall with Missy and Colin. Q and John went to the Mall ahead of us. We enjoyed eating dinner at Panera Bread and then it was time to go to the show. I stayed back because I wasn't feeling so hot and also to get some laundry done. Tomorrow we are off to Iowa. Goodnight!

Hello from Paducah, Kentucky

2009-01-20T19:20:00.000-08:00

We feel like we have landed. We are actually in the same place for two nights! What a pleasure. The cast threw a "Middle School Dance," for Colin (Dodger) because they found out he missed his dance while on tour. They all dressed how they did when they were in Middle School themselves and also acted out the part. Colin was so thrilled that he went back to his room to get spiffed up himself. Mikey just loved every single minute of it. I felt like I was on the set of "Saturday Night Live." See the video Missy posted and you will see why. The girls in the cast all danced with the boys while Ashley played Sister Mary Catherine and made sure they kept room for the holy ghost. Will was teaching everyone the electric slide. Fun was had by all. Will post pictures soon. I thank the cast for caring so much about the kids and being so great to them!

Evansville, Indiana

2009-01-20T19:15:00.000-08:00

Can you believe Mikey is really in Indiana! "Not Louisana, Paris, France, New York or Rome! But........Indiana, My Home Sweet Home! Okay, I know I am corny but I couldn't resist since his last part before being in Oliver was playing "Winthrop" in Music Man. This has been some week since returning on tour. Basically we travel 300 plus miles during the day and then arrive in time to grab a quick bite and go to the theater. We are looking forward to Paducah, Kentucky because we will actually be in the same place for two nights! Hooray!

Walking in "Memphis," AGAIN!

2009-01-20T19:03:00.000-08:00

We were all thrilled to be "Walking in Memphis," again on a stopover to Waukegan, Il. Everyone was so exicted because Matt David and the cast of the Drowsy Chaperone were staying at the same hotel. Matt was our orignal "Mr. Brownlow," and left to be in the Drowsy Chaperone. The cast all had dinner in BB Kings and everyone really enjoyed the music and seeing Matt. Baby Spencer and a fun time dancing to the music. Mikey enjoyed his dance with Rhiannon and some dance moves with Ashley. It was fun shopping on Beale Street again. I bought myself a ceraminc Elvis to hang on the bus but unfortunately he only lasted a morning before falling to the floor and breaking. I still have him from the thighs up! Colin and I were in rare form doing our impression of the "Blues Brothers"(Can be seen on Missy's facebook.) I swear I wasn't drunk....I was just so.........happy to be off the bus! Our next stop was Waukegan, Il. What can I say except that is was minus 20 degrees. The kids did get to meet the cast of "Oliver" from the local theater company. They were putting their show on in a couple of weeks and came to see the show. The kids seem to enjoy talking to each other. Following Waukegan we travelled to Lima, Ohio. Rhiannon broke her finger so Erin went on as Nancy, Michele went on as Mrs. Sowerberry and Ashley played "Old Sally." They all did a great job and the show was very interesting to watch. These ladies are all so talented to be able to step in at a moments notice and perform so well. It was also special for Erin because her parents and friends were able to see the show. On the the next State...............

Hello from Galveston, Texas

2009-01-20T18:35:00.000-08:00

Hello...........I'mback. Sorry I have been to cold and exhausted from the one-nighters that I have not had any inspiration to write. After Disney, Mikey and flew to meet the cast in Galveston, Texas. I was blown away by the devastation that still existed there. It brought back so many memories for me of losing my own home. We were lucky enough to have such wonderful neighbors, the Rockaway Community and the NYPD to help us. This community they all were wiped out and here it is 4 months later and the devastation is still everywhere. We saw miles and miles of coastline where just the pilings of houses remained or just the frame. Stores with no insides, cars still stuck in the mud, debris still strewn everywhere; big hotels with holes in the walls on the upper floors and people trying to rebuild again. I spoke to the owner of the grocery store across from the theater. He told me he lost all his inventory but was determine to get the store running again. He gave me a copy of how his store looked in the newspaper at that time. They were lucky in that they were able to throw out everything they had and get the store back opened that same week. He said the water by him was 9 ft and a few blocks away it was as high at 17ft. He told me before the hurricane the downtown area would be packed with people and you couldn't even find a spot. Today we say hardly any people except for those he came to the show. One women in the store told me her house was finally knocked down today and she was hoping to rebuild. While I was in the store I witnessed the store owner give free cleaning products to someone so they can clean their home. It was clear to me as they spoke to me that they felt it as clearly today and they felt it that day. As the women spoke to me about finding somethings in the debris perfectly find and other completely gone it brought me back to when we had to throw out the things from our house after the plane crash. I felt like I was back in time speaking to this women. I just wanted to hug her. Seeing a whole beach community wiped out like that made me a little nervous for Rockway. I hope this community finds the strength to rebuild itself. It will be some task. To take my mind off this sadness we had a very interesting hotel. All I can say is it felt like we were in an episode of "Cops" the tv show. The hotel had the best view of the Gulf of Mexico but that could not make up for the rest. It should have been called the "Double C" hotel. (Criminals and Critters) The cops were there regularly and while we were eating dinner we got to watch a live foot pursuit. Just to make everyone a little extra nervous....the Cops did not catch their man. The criminal element around the hotel I could deal with.....(although I wish I had my piece and handcuffs) it was the critters inhabiting my nightstand that made me stay awake all night. Let's just say the hotel's floors and walls moved and it had nothing to do with a hurricane. The hotel owes me money for my exterminating skills. We were so happy to leave Galveston. We got to shorten our trip by taken a ferry. The cast enjoyed being off the bus. We even were thrilled to see some dolphins and huge pelicans. However, we left Galveston driving past some of the most devestated areas. It was very sad.

Disney

2009-01-13T13:11:00.001-08:00

Okay I am behind in my writing due to all the one nighters. I haven't felt very inspired. Let me finish off Disney and then get back to the tour. Disney was a blast and exhausting at the same time. Maria was very thrilled to meet Goofy and Daisy Duck. She also had a lovely chat in cave with "The Little Mermaid" Ariel called Maria her "Little Star Fish." She really had the most fun playing in the sprinkler with the other kids near Ariel's cave. You can spend tons of money but it is still the simple little things that kids like the best. We met Uncle Charlie at Magic Kingdom and after going on the "Peter Pan" ride the groups split. The boys went off with Dad and Uncle Charlie to "Space Mountain," and Maria and I did things she would like. We went on Dumbo, Winnie the Pooh, met Ariel, and saw the awesome 3D Movie:"Mickey's Philharmonic." If you never saw this make sure you do. It was so good that we went again with the boys and they loved it. Maria really loved Minnie's House and enjoyed playing in the kitchen. We all went on Goofy's roller coaster, even Uncle Charlie. During our stay we went to Hollywood Studios and Epicot. At Hollywood studios we all rode the "Tower of Terror," even Maria. The lady behind her was cracking up because every time the elevator went into free fall Maria would fly up a little in her seat and her hair would fly. The boys really loved the Rocking Rollercoaster. Maria and I saw the "Little Mermaid" live show and we all went to the "Beauty and Beast" show. Mikey day was made when he got to fight "Jack Sparrow." They were doing a live perfomance outiside the "Pirates of the Carribean ride." Mikey was one of the kids selected to participate. All the kids were giving sword fighting instructions and a phrase to say to trick the pirate they would fight. The kids all fought Jack's assistance and then when it was Mikey's turn, Jack Sparrow tells him "Your going to fight me." He really loved it! Johnny got to talk to "Crush" the turtle in the "Voyage of the Little Mermaid." The turtle taught him how to say "Totally Sweet." We walked our feet off and would swim every night when we went back to the hotel. The boys really enjoyed the late night swims and snacks. A good time was had by all! Mikey and I had to go home and then fly back to the tour the next morning. Scroll down to check out some pictures.

Hello from Disney in Orlando, Fl

2009-01-05T20:34:00.000-08:00

I have come to to conclusion that I am definitely out of my mind. Instead of spending our week off at home like a sane person would who has been on the road since September I am at Disney. Don't get me wrong, I am loving it, every minute of it.....it is just that my feet hate it! We arrived here today and everything went smooth. Disney even gets your luggage from baggage claim at the airport and delivers it to your room. The villa we have is great. We have a huge bedroom with a master suite. There is a separate room for the Jacuzzi Tub, a huge seperate shower room, and walk in closet. It also has a living room, kitchen and suite for the kids. The kids have two queen size beds, a dressing room with large counter and sinks as well as their own bathroom. The kids were a bit exhausted from the early travel since they were all too exicted to sleep last night. We all fought our tiredness and had a lovely dinner at the Yatch Club followed by the Epicot firework displa. Mike, Mikey and Sean even made it for a late night swim. Maria, Johnny and I lost all energy and chose to stay in the villa. Maria enjoyed "Its a Small World" and John and Mikey kept snapping away photos with their new cameras. At lunch Uncle Mike encouraged all the boys to ride the toy stick horses that the restaurant had. They all lined up and rode them around the room. Maria loved it, Sean and John were a little embarassed but were good sports. Mikey of course was the last one to put his horse down. The meals have been great and we plan to meet Uncle Charlie and conquer the Magic Kingdom for real tomorrow. Have a Magical Night! Love, Sue and Family PS scroll down and look left to see pictures.

Happy New Years from Wisconsin and Happy Birthday, Missy!

2009-01-01T21:21:00.000-08:00

Schmeil, Schmazzle, Hots and Pepper Corporated! We're gonna make it after all...........We landed in the land of Laverne and Shirley! Unfortunately I forgot my winter coat in sunny Florida. It was almost cruel sending us from Florida to here. We went from 80 degrees to 3 degrees. I was silly enough to leave my winter coat on the tour bus in Florida. So here I am in fridge temperatures without a coat. (Can I get credit towards my Polar Bear membership.) We landed here about 4pm on New Years Eve. We are staying in a beautiful hotel with real comfy beds and have two days off without a show. For New Years Eve we went with our tour families (Missy, Colin, John and Quentin) to a nice Italian Restaurant right across the street from the hotel(Thank God, since no coat!) We were amazed that we got seat right away since when we called around they would not take any reservations. The food was delicious and then we went back to Missy's room to celebrate her birthday and New Years. We celebrated NY Time and then Wisconsin Time. Missy's husband Steve sent her a bottle of Champagne which she so kindly shared with John and I. (Thank you, Steve) The kids had a fun pillow fight which can be seen on facebook. There are other interesting videos on facebook from the night which I will not describe! Let just say the Champagne got to me! I presented Missy with her birthday present....an official Morley Polar Bear shirt. She is now an honorary member until she really joins us, hopefully, next year. Mike gave us a full report from home and sent pictures of the Polar Bear party. He said it was really freezing and his thumbs hurt for two hours after the swim. We have been doing the Polar Bear party for the past six years on New Years Day since we live right by the beach. This year Mike bought two big polar bear statutes to put on the stoop to welcome those that came to the party. This is the first year it has been so cold. This year separated the men from the boys and the woman from the girls. In my house the teenage girls went in while the teenage boys couldn't bring them selves to jump in. GO GIRLS! (Kasey, Jessie and Mariah) Maria told me she was very cold just watching and that Daddy thought she went in because JoJo wrapped a towel around her over her coat to warm her up. Mikey and I really missed being there today. Missy and Mikey both wore their Polar Bear shirts today. I guess if we wanted to show Mike up we could have jumped in the Great Lake nearby the hotel but that just would have been crazy! Tomorrow the boys don't have a show until the evening so it is like having another day off. We really look forward to down time, especially when we are in a nice hotel. Now that I have caught up with all my posting...........my fingers hurt! Happy New Years to All and to All a Good Night! Love, Sue and Mikey ....P.S. Don't forget to scroll down and look left at all the new pictures I added!

Hello from Sarasota

2009-01-01T20:58:00.000-08:00

We were sad to leave home but Sarasota, Florida was a great first stop to help cheer us up. It was sunny and in the 80's. The Sarasota Marina Hotel had a beautful pool with an outdoor Tikki Bar. I finally got a Pina Coloda in the sunshine. We had a round to celebrate Missy's upcoming birthday in the sunshine. The sun really felt good. Mikey enjoyed the pool, especially after Ashley joined him. It was so nice beside the pool that we (Missy, John and I) decided to have Pizza delivered and eat right there before the show. Our room had a little terrace that looked out at the water inlet and the beautiful boats. We were happy to have Mike's Aunt Eunice and family come to see the show. It was great seeing them. On December 30th we were really happy to see Uncle Charlie. He lives in Sarasota and joined us for breakfast. We then sat by the Marina and Mikey and Uncle Charlie walked on the dock looking at all the boats. Uncle Charlie really enjoyed the matinee and then we went to Apple Bees for Dinner. We really enjoyed our day together and then Mikey had to go an perform in an evening show. Uncle Charlie was very sweet when he called me later to tell me what a nice day he had with us. We are happy he has decided to join us for a day in Disney when we are there next week. I really like Sarasota, especially how warm it was in January. I procrastinated packing for our trip to freezing Wisconsin. But the show must go on...................

Home for the Holidays!

2009-01-01T20:28:00.000-08:00

Mikey and I were thrilled to go home for Christmas. Maria and Mike picked us up at the airport on December 21st. There were tight hugs all around! We knew it would be a crazy fast week but we were determine to get the most at of it. On Monday we went upstate to see Grandma and Aunt Eileen for Christmas. We had a lot of fun exchanging presents and catching up with each other. On Tuesday I visited the beauty parlor to get rid of the "Skunk" look! Wednesday I shopped, wrapped presents and then the family went to Aunt Mary's for Christmas Eve dinner. It was delicious. Christmas morning opening the presents Santa left was so much fun. Mikey pretended to faint when we told him about Disney and of course Maria had to do the same. The kids loved all the presents. Daddy made us some waffles for breakfast and then we had to clear the presents out of the living room to make room our guests. On Christmas the whole family came to our house and at some point I stopped counting how many seats we need for dinner! The little cousins had lots of fun opening presents and playing in Maria's room. Nana made delicious spiral hams and Uncle Artie contributed by making a leg of lamb which seemed to disappear quickly. Thanks Mom for all the wrapping and cooking because I could not have survived without your help. It was fun tell cousin Johnny that he was going to disney with us. I wrapped a shirt I bought for him in Mt. Rushmore. I told him I know you wanted money but I thought this shirt was better. You could tell as he looked at the shirt that he rather have money. Then I told him to read the note I wrote. It said" You will need to wear this shirt in a very special place in two weeks. See below for clues. On the paper was stickers of Mickey Mouse. His face was priceless. He seem to be afraid to guess so I finally told him it was Disney. He did not believe us at first and kept asking "Are you serious." The day after Christmas we took Mikey and his friend Reilly to see "Young Frankenstein." Before the show we ate at Ruby Tuesdays. The kids absolutely loved the show and Mikey has not stopped singing the songs. I apologized to the cast in advance! Some of them are verrrrrrrrrrrry interesting and not necessarily age appropriate! LOL. The next day was his actual birthday and we had a few of his friends and family members over to celebrate. He really enjoyed playing with his cousins and Will, Michael, Brandon and Caroline. He misses all of them while he is away. It was so good to see Mary who shamed me into updating this blog. Maria enjoyed playing with Alex. Sunday was our day to pack again. Maria and I stayed in our PJ's all day. It was hard leaving Mike, Maria and Nana again. Knowing I would be home in a week to take Maria to Disney got me through it. Not sure what will get me through when I have to come back after Disney. I guess I'll take it "One Day at a Time."

Hello from Melbourne, Flordia

2009-01-01T19:49:00.000-08:00

Okay sorry I have not written but so much was going on. The next few posts will be catch ups. We were in Melbourne Florida December 20th and Lakeland, Florida before that. During that time the Cast made time to rehearse Christmas Carols. They made time in their busy schedule to go Christmas Caroling at a Nursing Home for the residents. John was so happy to be part of the Choir! The residents seemed to really enjoy it. When the cast was done with Christmas songs they decided to give their audience a taste Oliver. They really enjoyed hearing the cast perform a few numbers. Mikey, Colin and Q were happy they could finally participate in Oom Pah Pah! (LOL) On December 20th, Mikey and I were so excited that Uncle Bill, Aunt Loretta, and Aunt Loretta's sister Dolly came to see the show. Aunt Loretta surprised Mikey by visiting him in the dressing room. It was so nice to have company on the road. We had great seats and then Uncle Bill treated us to a nice dinner in a place near the theater that looked like a tikki hut. Mikey really enjoyed the chicken wings. Aunt Loretta and Mikey had great dessert with bite sized brownies and banana fosters. Unfortunately, we really had to rush dinner because Mikey had another show to perform in that night. Since this was our last night before going home for Christmas all the Secret Santa's were revealed and the gifts given out. Mikey's Secret Santa (Clare) gave him his current favorite movie S.T. and some yummies. My Secret Santa was Ashley and she gave me some of my favorite things. She along with Erin also had the most festive and creative outfits for the holiday party at the pool after the show. Mikey was the Secret Santa to Erin and he really was so happy he picked her. He had so much fun buying presents for her. I had Adam and had fun leaving him presents I thought he would like. Colin had Chaz and tortured him by making him read clues that led him to other people who had the clues that would reveal his final present and secret santa. We all had lots of fun but were so glad we are going home. Zac, Chaz, Ashley, Mikey and I all had a nice lunch at the Outback while we waited for our return flights home. I was very excited to be proofed when I asked for a Bloody Mary. I don't think I have been proofed in 20 years. I was so excited I called Missy to tell her. Hope everyone has a Happy Holiday season!

Hello from Destin,. Florida

2008-12-17T17:35:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday we went to the Oakoloosa Beach. (okay I admit I have to check the spelling but it is close.) The one thing I am truly amazed about here is the color of the sand. It actually looks like snow. In fact when we arrived most of the cast thought it was snow. It looked just like the snow in Colorado. I never seen such white sand and I have been to plenty of beaches all over the world. They had a cute boardwalk with restaurants and shops. Missy finally found the Oysters she has been craving but she is paying for it today. After having a nice lunch we went to all the little shops while the boys played at the playground on the sand. They really needed to burn up some energy after all the bus time they put in this week. Unfortunately the fog rolled in when we got there. Similar to when we went to the beach in San Luis Obispo, CA the fog did not stop the boys from rolling up their pants and going in. Needless to say, Colin and Mikey when home with wet, sandy jeans. The one thing there that really weirded me out was they had a crashed plane on display in front of the entrance area. I know it bothered me because I had a dream last night that I was trying to sell my house and when the people came to see it black clouds formed and fell into the water causing a giant wave that hit the house. Can any dream experts out there let me know what they think..............Today the cast sang Christmas Carols and then some Oliver songs for residents of a nursing home here. The residents really enjoyed the show. One women loved it so much she grabbed my hand as we were leaving and asked "When are you coming back." The kids really enjoyed doing it. Mikey had reindeer ears on, a flashing christmas necklace, a red flashing light on his nose and a stuffed rudolph on his waist. (He didn't get into to much-LOL) After the nursing home Mikey had understudy rehearsal and enjoyed playing Oliver in the "Funeral Scenes." He really enjoyed getting to sing "Where is Love." They ran through all the scenes twice so he was happy to sing it again. I know I am his mother but I couldn't believe how he knew every line and how well he delivered them. The show is going on now and I am in the dressing room catching up on this blog. We leave here tomorrow for Lakeland Florida and then on Saturday we will be in Melbourne for two shows. Aunt Loretta and Uncle Bill will be coming to the show in Melbourne. We can't wait to see them. Then the big day comes: Sunday, when we go home. We are counting the days. "Be Back Soon." Love, Sue and Mikey

Lafayette, Louisiana to Destin Florida

2008-12-15T20:38:00.000-08:00

We have finally landed! After a week of sleeping in different hotels in different states every night we have arrived in Florida. We will be here in the same hotel for 3 whole nights! This is a good thing because the bus rides this week have been driving me crazy or as the muppets would say: "I got cabin fever." Plus we hit a string of hotels with no washing machines. Last night we had a show in Lafayette, Louisiana and us parents were so desperate to do laundry that we actually did not go to the show. We thought we had a great plan since there were two washers and dryers. The only problem was one of the dryers was broken. We find laundry is generally the biggest challenge on tour. So it took us a little longer than planned but we all got it done while the rest of the cast was at the show. Today stopped for lunch in Biloxi and drove past some cool looking swamps that the boys enjoyed looking at. Tonight, after arriving in Destin, Florida the cast had Christmas Caroling practice and Missy and I took a walk to the beach. We wanted to make sure our legs were still working after sitting so long on the bus. We had a good laugh when Missy heard some kind of animal in the bushes and grabbed me. I was just hoping it wasn't an alligator. The cast will be singing Christmas Carols at a nursing home this week. They all truly sound amazing together. Since we had the night off the usual suspects went to "Outback" with us. It was a pleasure since we did not have to rush our meal for a change. Now Mikey is reading his book and I am typing this. We just got our flight home information so we are very excited. We should be home in Rockaway by 4pm on Sunday. Mikey got homesick for the first time last night and told me he really misses Maria and Nana. He had to call his Nana to tell her. I think he is really exicted about Christmas and can't wait to get home to help decorate the tree. He has been keeping himself busy by sketching all the characters for his new show: Pirates of the Carribean take on the roles of the cast in Oliver. They are very interesting and detailed drawings. He also came home from the show last night and decided he wants muscles. He showed me how he can do push ups and sit-ups and wondered why he did not see biceps or have a six pack right away. LOL. Tomorrow we hope to take the kids to the boardwalk for lunch once they are done with school. Now it is time to turn the lights out. "Be Back Soon!" Love, Sue and Mikey

Hello from Oxford, Mississippi

2008-12-13T21:40:00.000-08:00

Hello from Mississippi. Today we traveled from Baton Rouge to Oxford for an 8pm show. We left Baton Rouge at 9am and I think everybody is starting to feel tired from the one night show and being in a different city every day. Today I was so tired I actually think I fell asleep a few times on the bus only to be quickly awoken by my sons feet. Apparently he moonlights as a break dancer in his sleep; one that does 360's and high kicks. He woke me up everytime and never woke up himself. It was amazing that no matter where I put my feet he managed to find them in his sleep and somehow managed to kick me right across the aisle of the bus. At first I thought he was messing with me, especially when I tucked my feet in front of me and he still got me. Then I watched in amazement as his feet went up in the air with a little spin and kicked the tutors feet whose seat is across the table from his. Jeremiah's feet were actually up on the table so he had to kick up in the air to get him. He managed to wake his Mom and tutor and still remain sleeping. If I wasn't so bone tired this would be funny! We finally arrived in Oxford around 3pm. After dragging the luggage up a flight of stairs, ( we hate hotels without elevators) we had an hour to relax before dinner. We had dinner with our tour family: the Araujos and Nims in Apple Bees and then got back on the bus to go to the theater. The theater was on the campus of the University of Mississippi and we were able to watch from good seats tonight. It is always better when we get good seats because it is fun to see all the actors expressions during the show. Allaggio struggled a little playing Noah because his ankle was still swollen but he did a great job. The fight scene just had to be modified a little. Ashley did a great job filling in for him as "Captain" in Fagin's Gang." She is real fun to watch and her expressions are great. The theater was a great host to the cast, providing snacks, drinks, cereal and animal crackers. Mikey especially loved the "Rice Krispies." They had a "green room" that looked like a living room so it was fun when everybody gathered between there scenes and chatted. Everybody really appreciates when there are couches and space. I think just about everybody misses there couch. The bus seats just are not the same. On the bus ride back it was fun to watch Jen help Chaz's secret santa decorate his seat on the bus. His face said it all when he got on the bus and saw the blue garland with snowflakes along with the big red stocking. He was very thrilled. On another note I was happy to talk to my baby girl "Maria" today. She told me a whole list of things that she want to do with me when I get home. They include: Playing Princesses, Reading a bedtime story, Christmas Shopping, Christmas Decorating and watching a movie. I can't wait to do all of them with her. Only one more week to go... Yipee! Now I must go to sleep since the bus call for the morning is 7:30 and we are heading to Lafayette, Louisana. Love Ya, Sue and Mikey

Baton Rouge

2008-12-12T23:23:00.000-08:00

We boarded the bus 9am today after having breakfast at TGI Fridays. The beds last night where to die for so it was hard to get up. The hotel was very nice and different looking. We wished we had more time in Memphis. Sorry Elvis....I did not get to Graceland. The bus ride was quiet all morning since most of the cast really enjoyed Memphis and needed some sleep. Even though the ride was shorter than the past two it was still long. We are all getting "bus fever." This part of the tour is going to be rough because there are many one nighter's coming up. That means travel and show the same day. Not looking forward to it. The days begin to merge into one. Good thing I have this blog to keep track. We arrived in Baton Rouge a little before 4pm. Mikey took a quick shower and then we dined with the usual suspects: Missy, Colin, Q and John. We enjoyed going to Cracker Barrel because it was the first time we ate in one on this tour. (Something different!) You really start missing home cooked meals when you are on the road. After a while all the menus look the same and you don't know what to eat. Mikey and I had something very different for us: Chicken and Dumplings in a cream sauce. He really loved it and ate the whole thing. After eating it was back on the bus for a 10 mile bus ride to the theater. While the kids did "Mike Check" before the show, the parent explored down town Baton Rouge. After being on Beale Street in Memphis, 3rd Street in Baton Rouge seemed boring. Not much was going on. We stopped at a pub where Missy was happy to find a beer called "Purple Haze." John tried Purple Haze and I happily resisted it and had a Pinot Grigio instead. We then went and watch the show. Poor Allaggio hurt his ankle and we are hoping he is okay by tomorrow. Tomorrow we have a 9am bus call and travel to Mississippi for a show. Seems crazy since we drove through Mississipi today and now have to go back. That is show biz! Have a goodnight. Love, Sue and Mikey

"I'M WALKING IN MEMPHIS..........."

2008-12-11T21:46:00.000-08:00

"I'm Walking in Memphis.....with my feet.......okay I love that song but for the life of me cannot remember the second line. I definitely think I have early Alzheimer; I use to remember everything. After two days of very long bus rides we arrived in Memphis, Tennessee. Everybody was looking to blow off some steam especially since there was no show. Luckily we are staying in the heart of downtown only 2 blocks away from the famous "Beale Street." The home of the blues. Beale streets is three blocks long with about 30 stores, clubs and restaurants all lit up with music blaring from each of the restaurants trying to lure in patrons. After browsing the shops we couldn't decide which place to eat. We actually went into one place, sat down, got menus and then after looking at the menu walked out. Lucky we did because we ended up eating at "BB Kings" where a live blues band was playing and we had a blast. Many of the cast members, unplanned showed up at the same place. The lead singer noticed the kids dancing and enjoying the music upon the balcony and made some comments about it. (because they are so shy! ) Later, Mikey made a sign and was waving it "Sing It To Me" The kids decided to go in front of the stage and dance so she can read the sign. By the end of the night Mikey, Q and Colin were sitting on the stage with the lead singer hugging them and introducing them as the cast of Oliver! She really made their night when she came off stage and danced with them. Q busted a few moves on her! You could see it in theire faces how much fun they were having. We also had scrumptous meal of BBQ ribs and baked beans. The ribs were so good we ordered more. Mikey really loved them. Tomorrow we continue our trip to Baton Rouge and have a show at night. We all really regret not be able to stay in this City. Graceland and the Civil Right Museum are nearby but unfortunately we did not have time to visit. Mikey was very happy to hear from Reilly and was talking to her while in BB Kings. He is really exicited that she got the part of "Charlie" in Willie Wonka at the Rockaway Theatre Company. He really got a kick that they both are playing a role where their names are Charlie. We are praying they have a March show so we can see it when we get back. Well time to go to sleep......Be Back Soon! Love, Mikey and Sue.

Farwell to Rapid City....Hello to Missouri

2008-12-10T21:17:00.000-08:00

We bid a fond farwell to Rapid City, South Dakota also known as the "City of Presidents." They have statutes of the former Presidents on almost every corner in Rapid City's Main Street area. My favorite was JFK and John John. I think Mikey's favorite was Pocohontas since he had me take a picture of him kissing her. He was disappointed when she did not come to life and discovered for the first time in his life he wasn't really a prince. (LOL) Since we were in Rapid City a few days we were able to swim and relax in the hot tub, shop in the cute town, do laundry, dine out and of course as I wrote yesterday fulfill a dream. Mikey and I were also very happy to find a verizon store because we both broke our phone holders. I also needed to up the texting on the plan since my husband discovered how to text. (LOL) The first night we arrived we went to a cute restaurant that was called the Fire House Brewing Company. It was beautifully decorated for the holidays; fire truck and all. Q and John's dessert was so big Mikey had to help them eat it; they still were not able to finish it all. Yesterday after returning from Mt. Rushmore we browsed all the cute unique shops until we could barely walk back. When we walked back to the hotel Missy was like the "General" marching ahead at a fast pace while John and I could barely move our legs anymore and had to order them to keep moving or risk freezing to death. I definitely took my car for granted all these years. "Seriously, Never Again! Today was a really long bus ride. It took us about 12 hours to get to Missouri for a stop over on the way to Baton Rouge. We were so happy to get off the bus and go to "Arbys" for dinner. Then we browsed the truck stop stores hoping to find some secret santa presents. Now Mikey just finished reading a chapter in his book. He is reading "The Maze of Bones-The 39 Blues. He is really enjoying it and is laughing out loud. We talked to Mike and Maria several times today. They are busy decorating the house so when we come home we will only have to put the ornaments on the tree. We are counting the days until we come home. Well I have to go night night now. Bus call is 730am. Love, Sue and Mikey

Mt. Rushmore---Need I say more......

2008-12-09T19:48:00.001-08:00

Today was a dream come true for me. I only wish Mike and Maria were with us to share this truly awesome or as the kids would say....GI-NORMOUS experience! Thanks to our fantastic tour manager (Clare) the cast went to see Mt. Rushmore today. We were really worried last night because it was snowing and we were not sure if we would be able to go today. However, we woke up to bright sunshine and and the weather was perfect. It is truly a remarkable site and the sky was the bluest I have ever seen. To think that one man's idea developed into this beautiful monument. My first thought.was....How did this actually get created? It seems like a miracle and I never really thought about it before. Luckily there is a museum at the site and we all watched the video in the little theater there. The video explained the history and how the sculpture was made. It took 14 years to get the project completed but only 6 and one-half to actually do the carving. There was a lot of politics involved and fund raising to get it completed. What amazed us all as we watched the video was how they used dynamite to blast and shape the granite. Even when some of the faces were carved already they utilized dynamite to make the rest. Truly amazing stuff. The project began in 1927 and was completed in 1941. It cost just under one million dollars to create which was a lot of money at that time. Most of it came from the government. The orignial idea by Doane Robinson was to carve Sioux Chief Red Cloud or Lewis and Clark. When he contacted sculpturer Gotzon Borglum to actually create the monument, Borglum had his own lofty and creative ideas. He was very patriotic and felt that the men whose actions helped to create this great nation should be the ones carved into the mountain. He died a few month before the project was completed and his son took over until the project was completed. One thing I found real interesting was how Mt. Rushmore got it's name. Between 1884 and 1885, a young lawyer from New York named Charles Rushmore kept visiting the area on business and spent time with the locals. He really gained the respect of the locals and was fond of one particularly impressive granite mountain. One day he asked his guide "What is the name of that mountain?" His guide responded, " Never had any, but now-we'll call the damn thing "Rushmore." We also had great fun as we were leaving. Chaz's(Mr. Bumble) secret santa left him a note that he had to do Shoopoopi from Music Man at Mt. Rushmore to get a present. Well he put on quite a show and luckily I video taped it because Mikey joined in to do the "Shoopoopi dance." What a memory.....not many people can say they did the "Shoopoopi at Mt. Rushmore! Scroll down and look to the left to check out more photos. I also added more to facebook album under Oliver-Mt. Rushmore......Love ya, Sue and Mikey

Ft. Collins, Colorado

2008-12-06T11:19:00.000-08:00

On Friday night after the show we went to the Pool with Q and John. The boys were thrilled to find baby Spencer already in the hot tub with his Grandma and Grandpa who were visting. We all had a lot of fun playing with Spencer. Spencer apparently was having a lot of fun to because when his mommy and daddy took him out he demanded to go back to the pool. The boys were really happy when Rhiannon and Brendan joined the hot tub party. They love their leading lady! Since we have been here since Wednesday, Mikey is now best friends with most of the waitresses in the I-Hop across the street. On Saturday, we got to do some shopping in Wal-mart. The hotel was kind enough to allow the shuttle to take us there and back. We are having a lot of fun with Secret Santa. The show last night was great and we think the ghost returned for a brief moment when the set staircase wouldn't budge for a scene change. We were really wondering how the cast would handle it since a lot of Consider Yourself takes place on the stairs. Bart saved the day donning Chaz's costume to fix the problem; with the cast dancing and singing all around him the audience did not realize there was a problem. The boys are beginning to get spoked by the ghost and are a little jittery in the dressing room. They keep hearing noises and seeing curtains move. Of course Zac (Fagin) got them good yesterday and Chris said he never heard such a high pitched scream as Mikey's and that Colin and Q almost jumped into each others arms (LOL) Today we were happy to be woken up by Maria and Daddy's phone call. There is a two hour time difference. Maria's cough is all better and they are on there way to the Children's Christmas party at Daddy's work. She was excited that she may see Santa. Mikey is really excited about going home for Christmas and his birthday. I am counting the days until I can hold my baby girl again. Today is a beautiful day here in Colorado. It feels about 50 and the snow is starting to melt. We enjoyed breakfast with Q and John at I-Hop and Mikey and I are relaxing, reading our books until bus call at 1pm. That is all for now...................Love, Sue and Mikey

Ft. Collins, Colorado

2008-12-04T09:09:00.000-08:00

Thursday, December 4th---Morning
Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow! We arrived here December 3rd. Mikey and I send a shout out to Aunt Mo.....Happy Birthday! It has been snowing since we arrived and it looks like a winter wonderland. I have a feeling there will be a major snow ball fight later. Ft. Collins is a college town and we are right next to Colorado State University. We haven't had a chance to explore much since the kids had a show last night and are in school now. Last night's show was unbelievable. We think there is a phantom in the theater. The first act had so many things go wrong. Mikey jacket got stuck on top of the bridge's fence during "Consider Yourself" and he could not free himself. It took Chaz and finally Chris (Bill Sikes) to free him. His jacket was ripped up the whole back. The big monument that Mikey pushes out with Jen wouldn't stop moving when its' wheel broke. Another member of Fagin's Gang (Jen) had to go to the hospital when she fell to the floor off Alaggio's shoulder during "Pick a Pocket." Thank goodness she is only bruised and did not break anything. There were many other bloopers that I will not mention. I do believe there was a ghost in the house. We have been watching every show for months now and never seen so many things happen.

Thursday, December 4th- Evening
After school Q, John, Mikey and I walked in the snow storm a few blocks to a wonderful sandwich place called "Which, Which." We had a lot of fun on the way there and back. Mikey took a few snow baths after he kept throwing snow at the parents and did not heed our warnings. John got him on way there and back. I got him on way back after he hit me with snow, one time too many. After lunch we had to go to the theater for brush-up and under study rehearsals. The cast worked hard and it was interesting to see Adam, Mikey and Michelle do the "It's Your Funeral" scene. They did a great job. I thought Mikey looked adorable in the hat but then again I am his mother. The rehearsals went longer then expected so we had to grab a quick bite at I-Hop and then the boys had to be back at the theater for tonights show. Hopefully the Phantom got everything out of his system last night. I pooped out after being at the theater all afternoon and John kindly offered to take Mikey so I could do my laundry. Early reports from Mikey and Missy after Act I are that the Phantom must be resting. Act I was great tonight. They just called that they are on the way back and we all plan on going into the swimming pool and hot tub to unwind before bed. The kids worked hard today so we agreed we would let them swim tonight since they did not have a chance the last two days. I will be going to bed happy since I got all my laundry done without having to go to a laundromat. (Ah, the little things in life.) "Be Back Soon." Love, Sue and Mikey

Bye to Kansas, Hello to Ft. Collins Colorado

2008-12-03T14:43:00.001-08:00

Sorry to say clicking my heels together did not work! I am still on tour. I think Mikey stole the real ruby slippers so I would stay with him on tour. (Either that or for himself. ) After seeing Kansas landscaping from the bus I think I know why Dorothy ran away. Miles and Miles of barren looking flat dry land with hardly any houses. We saw a lot of cows and the kids got excited seeing windmills. Every once in a while I would see a lonely looking house in the middle of no-where. Mikey did manage to find Dorothy, however not in human form. Plenty of ornaments, t-shirts and statutes. I had to hold on to my purse! He still loves his "Wizard of Oz." His singing "Over the Rainbow" in front of the whole school in kindergarten is what led to this tour! After we were finally off the bus we had a nice steak dinner at "Montana Mikes." (even though we were in Kansas and not Montana) After dinner we went shopping for some "Secret Santa gifts." Mikey is really into it, only problem is he want to buy everything he sees. I am exicted to be back in Colorado. We arrived in Ft. Collins, Colorado around 230pm today. There is some snow on the ground and some light flurries. We have a show tonight so we are heading off now to I-HOP. We will be here until Sunday......."Be Back Soon!" Love, Sue and Mikey

Ft. Smith, ARKANSAS To Kansas

2008-12-02T07:59:00.000-08:00

THE WIND BEGAN TO TWITCH THE HOUSE TO PITCH...(IF ONLY I HAD A HOUSE!) We are on the way to Kansas now. When you look at the window it feels like you are in the middle of no where. You see cows and flat brown grass that looks thirsty for water. We have no show this is just a travel day because it takes two days to get to Ft. Collins, Colorado. Let me fill you in on yesterday. On Monday, December 1st, we began our day travelling on the bus to Ft. Smith, Arkansas. Or as the cast members like to say, "Ar......KANSAS! On the way the tour manager allowed us to stop off to shop for some secret santa gifts. Everyone had fun picking out little things they thought their person would like. Everyone is getting into the spirit of Christmas and their bus areas are getting creatively decorated. Mikey decorated our areas with colorful curly ribbons. Missy bought him a stick on rudolph decoration so he decorated his window and he put candy canes around the picture he hung up of him and Reilly. Mikey has taken to wearing his rudolph antlers with bells everywhere. It's getting fun because everyone is now finding little surprises on the seats or in their dressing rooms. Mikey was a little perturbed that my secret santa delivered a gift before his had a chance too. I got an Advent Calendar which will really help me keep track of the days. I keep forgetting what day it is. Mikey's Santa surprised him by leaving a gift between acts in his dressing room. It was a Christmas Ornanment filled with bubble gum. He loved it. The bus ride took about 8 hours so when we arrived at the hotel we had only time for a quick shower before going to the theater. The positive thing about the bus ride is that I did get a lot of On-Line Shopping done on the bus, until my battery died. I really have trouble sleeping on the bus so I usually go on the computer or read. All I can say is thank God I can read or I would really lose my mind since unlike mostly everybody else, I can't sleep on the bus. I envy Mikey. He goes out like a light for hours and I wind up staring at him in jealousy. He does however take after Nana in that he needs a dramamine if he has to read on the bus. The same kid that can go on every scary ride in Six Flags will get nauseous if he reads on the bus. The Theater fed the cast dinner before the show. Another nice meal that the cast really appreciated. Mikey really liked the bananna bread pudding and asked me if Nana knows how to make it. Of course he also liked the chocolate cake. The Theater had about 1400 seats and the parents watched Act 1 and then tried to relax in the dressing room. (That wasn't happening after the kids all ate chocolate) (LOL.) To give Clare (tour manager) a break I kidnapped her baby boy, Spencer during Act II. He spent part of the second act in the dressing room with the boys all entertaining him and giving him rides in the laudry basket between their scenes. Spencer and I had fun walking the the long hallways together and I took him back stage to see Jeff the drummer drum at the end of the show. He is such a cute little baby! I think he is really learning from his dad Bart and the crew about moving things too the right spot. He was so funny moving the laudry basket around the dressing room and then announcing "there" when he thought it was in the right spot. Well we are on the bus now stopping off to sleep in Kansas on the way to Ft. Collins, Colorado. Mikey is on the look out for "Dorothy" and I am hoping to find the "Wizard" so I can go home!" Either that or I am going to try clicking my heels together and say "There is No Place Like Home." That line from the Wizard of Oz has taken on a new meaning for me. I feel Dorothy's pain! Love You All! Sue and Mikey Scroll down an look left to see some new photos.

Goodbye to Orange, Texas!

2008-12-01T08:04:00.000-08:00

Not to much to report. The hotel was nice but did not have any food places nearby. The hotel had a nice fireplace and couch sitting area with a Xmas tree. Next to it was the breakfast dining area. The first night we arrived we decided to make this area our home and ordered Italian Food with the Nims and Araujos. We all enjoyed sitting on a couch and watching the flat screen TV. It was nice because it felt like we were in someones living room instead of a hotel. The cast performed two shows at the Lutcher Theater in Orange Texas. The theater treated the cast really well providing home cooked meals and freshed baked:cookies, brownies and cakes. I really loved those cookies! Mikey couldn't get enough of the brownies and they seemed to give him a blast of energy while on stage. (LOL) Yesterday the cast and crew all picked the names for the "Secret Santa." We will all give secret little presents in the next few weeks and your secret Santa will be revealed at the end when we exchange bigger gifts. The kids and adults all are excited. The parents were also excited to get the laudry done. These are the little things that exicte you on tour. We bid a fond farwell to our Mr. Brownlow (Matt) who left us Sunday to join the cast of the Drowsy Chaperone. Adam did a nice job as understudy yesterday while the new Mr. Brownlow, James gets ready to take over the part. We will miss Matt, especially at any future roller rink parties! After the show we traveled 2 hours to Conroe,Texas so we would have a shorter travel to Ft. Smith, Arkansas today. Last night, Rhiannon joined the boys in the back of the bus for a DS Marathon playing Mario Party. All four DS's were in fast action with fingers flying and a lot of laughter, grunts and groans. This was good for the boys because it made the ride go by faster. They really all are amazingly good kids on the bus. I started to Christmas shop on line beacuse I will have very little time once I get home to prepare. Christmas dinner is at my house, Mikey's birthday is two days later and we have to visit our family upstate. A lot to do when we have to fly back to Sarasota, Fl on December 28th. Yikes! Trying not to panic. "Be Back Soon!"

McAllen, Texas

2008-11-28T09:42:00.000-08:00

GOBBLE, GOBBLE, GOBBLE! Welcome to summer! The weather in McAllen was in the 80's! The first thing we did was go to the pool for a swim. It was wonderful to lay in the sun. We spent November 26 and November 27th in McAllen. The kids had a show on Wednesday night and then were off for Thanksgiving. Mikey and I along with some of the early risers in the cast layed by the pool enjoying the sun and swimming after breakfast. Of course I called some of my friends and family to rub it in since it was so cold back home. We missed Dad, Mikey, Maria, Nana and the rest of our family. Especially the homemade stuffing, turnips, mashed potatoes, etc.... Our tour Manager Clare arranged a nice dinner for the cast and crew at a different hotel. It was in an atrium. We sat at round tables with piano music playing in the background. The dinner was a buffet with a carving board for turkey and roast beef. The buffet included glazed ham, sweet potatoes, stuffing, brocolli, potatoes, rice, etc.... The dessert bar had wonderful cakes and fruit. Ashley (dance captain) gave a beautful speech that was appreciated by all. Although everyone missed being home we really enjoyed eating together with our cast family. Since we had an early dinner and it was so nice out we all went back to the pool. It turned into some pool party with just about everyone getting thrown in the pool at some point. Those hiding got squirted with the garden hose. Missy was thrown in coverup and all. Efrat was thrown in chair, boots and all. It was a lot of fun. Mikey and Colin really got into it and helped plot some of the drownings. Zac and Chaz proved tough to throw in but they eventually got hosed. Michelle even tried to get Zac off his lounged chair to dance with her to give the guys an opportunity to get him. The more she danced the more he resisted. (LOL) After a really fun pool party we went up to pack for the trip to Orange, Texas. I am writing this from the bus where apparently they don't pave the roads in this part of Texas. We just had border patrol agents board the bus and ask for everyone's ID. Nobody was happy because they all had to be wakened up for this. The agents took one look at the junk on the bus and left. If was pretty funny when Stacey popped out of the bathroom and the Agent was standing right there. Well all I have left is that Texas has stretches of really flat land, very different from the mountains of the West Coast. To all my family and friends who I did not get to speak too....I hope everyone had a beautiful Thanksgiving! We miss you all. Love, Sue and Mikey PS Scroll down when reading because I added some photos on left and entries from the days I missed.

Waco, Texas

2008-11-28T09:22:00.000-08:00

For those of you dying to know......No, I did not get to visit the "Compound." After Dallas we went to Waco, Texas for two days. The cast was not crazy about the stage because it was really small for the set. Let's just say some funny things happened at times during the show because of the adjustments needed. We got to me John's friend Max and his beautiful daughter "QQ." They came to see Q in the show and have been friends for a long time. John and Max did some male bonding in the Gazebo and payed the price a little the next morning. Missy and I did some girl bonding the night of the first show when we cut out on the guys during intermission. The kids dressing rooms were a little small so Missy and I found a nice place across the street called the "Green Room" to hang out during the second act of the show. We had intended to go back for the second act until we discovered this place. It had nice linen table cloths and small tables with candles. We enjoyed drinking from real wine glasses. (I think John was going to file a missing persons on us when he did not find us in the dressing room after the show. ) Missy and I busted two college students having dinner. They were supposed to be at the theater to watch the show as part of a class assingment. They said they weren't theater people so skipped the second act to have dinner. They pumped us for info on the show so they could write their papers. We took John to the Green Room the second night and were a bad influence on him, he skipped act two too! The kids really enjoyed the hotel in Waco because he had a beautiful atrium with a indoor pool. The pool was surrounded by plants, trees and a Gazebo. they enjoyed eating their lunch in the Gazebo and taking a swim before returning to school in the board room. I was happy because I got so wash done without having to go to a laundry mat! The weather was also fabulous.

Medieval Times, Dallas

2008-11-28T09:04:00.000-08:00

We were a little tired on Sunday after going to Six Flags the day before so we had a lazy day in the room until dinner time. For dinner we went to Medieval Times with Colin and Missy. John and Q went to the Dallas Cowboys game. Medieval Times was really a lot of fun. The adults liked it was much as the kids. You enter this castle and take photos with the knights or princess. Your tour the gift shop and then go into the dinner theater. Mikey bought a knights shirt and wooden dagger. Maria picked a princess headband and she looked beautiful in it. It is a big arena with movie seat type chair but with a long counter in each row. We had dead center seats third row up. They were perfect. Each area is given a knight who wears a certain color to cheer for. We had the black and white knight but unfortunately, despite losing our voices cheering for him, he lost the first joust. We did not take it well. Okay, I tooked it the worst and when the other knight dared someone else to fight him I screamed "I'm Coming!" The waiter got a kick at of that. The knights are on horse back having jousting matches, sword fights, etc... Mikey turned to me and said "this is even better than six flags!" That was quite a statement since he loved six flags. The meal is served during the show in metal dishes with no forks. They try to make you feel like you are in the Middle Ages when people ate with there hands. We had half a chicken, baked potato, apple tart and ice tea. Okay....I an fibbing, the parents had beer! Perhaps that is why I shouted to the Prince at the end, " I love you Prince!" It was really fun cheering for your knight and waving your flag for him. We all had crowns on her heads and would wave our flags like crazy when our knight road by us on horseback. It was a perfect ending to our too brief vacation in Dallas. It was good for Mikey because he just studied the Middle Ages in Social Studies and for Dad becaue he is in the middle of reading Robin Hood. Maria and I just loved it!

Six Flags Over Texas

2008-11-22T22:30:00.000-08:00

On Friday we went to Six Flags with other members of the cast and crew. A great day was had by all. We were so lucky because almost all the rides had no lines. I discovered that both my kids are fearless when it comes to rides. After being greeted by Bugsbunny and friends we began to explore the park. The teacup rides were fun for all and everybody (including Missy) was able to ride without turning green. The Pirate ship almost did in Colin but he was a trooper. His face was priceless and it was touch and go for a moment with those below him watching closely (John, Melissa and Dave) hoping he did not lose his cookies! Maria totally amazed us by going on some scary rides like the "Pirate Ship, a rRollercoster that turns sideways and is supposed to be like a scateboard, a flume rollercoaster, etc.... She giggled like mad and loved all of them. She got very upset and insulted when we hit the first ride that she was not tall enough to go on. It was a bucking flying cow ride that whipped around. At the end of the day I asked her which was her favorite ride and she told me it was the "Cow Ride." When I said, "But you weren't allowed on it," she said, "Yes, but it was my favorite." Mikey went on every rollercoaster he could find. I was very surprised that Dad was keeping up with him on the rides and then at 4pm
Dad pushed his luck to far. They both went on the batman ride and then decided to go on a second time and invited me. Let's just say you need a good lung capacity to ride because you scream the whole way and when you get off you think "What the heck just happen!" The ride is a rollercoaster where your feet hang. (No floor) You go upside down and sideways and every other way. When your on it you can't tell if your upside down or not. I survived it thanks to the tips from John and Mikey. Well, this ride finally did Dad (Mike) in. We had to leave him in Johnny Rockets to recover. When we check on him he was slouched down sleeping in the booth and all you could see from the outside window was the cowboy hat on his head. (LOL) He looked line a drunk cowboy. We ended the day with Mikey going on the "Titan" rollercoaster with Michelle five times in a row. He had to get a new partner after Batman knocked off Dad and Mom. Maria really enjoyed meeting the different characters along the way and took pictures with: Scooby, Superheroes and Taz. Maria ended the day with going on the Carousel and "El Sombrero with Dad. She also met "Tweety Bird" and was a little upset because Dad did not have the camera. She was also upset with Tweety because he did not say "Tweet, Tweet." Mikey bought red Superman Cape for him and a Pink Super Girl Cape for Maria. I was glad to go back on the bus and relieve the stress on the feet. This was just a great day!

Sixth Floor Museum

2008-11-22T22:01:00.000-08:00

On Thursday we went to the Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas. The museum is located on the floor of the building where Lee Harvey Oswald shot JFK from. The boys teacher gave them papers with questions on them that they had to get the anwsers to during the visit. When we entered the museum they gave us all headphones with a recorder. As you went through the exhibit you listened to the narrator and could stop the audio on your recorder to read the displays and watch the various interesting videos along the way. The boys seemed as facinated as the rest of the country with the possibility of a conspiracy. Mikey who is nine, was totally facinated trying to understand what conspiracy meant. I tried to explain that he should review the facts and evidence and then form his own opinion instead of being swayed in either direction. There were plenty of peddlers in the street selling papers about the "Conspiracy View." He asked me if "Nana is conspiracy?" (LOL) I told him to ask her. The boys got a discount on some newspapers from one of the peddler who believed in the conspiracy because they noticed his money blowing away and picked the dollar bills up for him. It was really interesting being there on the eve of the 45th anniversary of JFK's death. You could look at the window where Lee Harvey Oswald look while shooting the President. They also had the FBI's model of the scene (buildings and all.) It was very sad especially when you reflected on the tragedies that were still to befall this family. Watching the videos that contained parts of JFK's famous speeches really gave you a sense of how he inspired a nation. We also visited the grassy knoll and stood on the spot where the President was killed. They have an "X" spray painted in the street on the exact spot. We also saw the jail building where "Jack Ruby," the man who killed Oswald was incarcerated until his death of cancer three and half years later. This trip was a school field trip for the boys and because of that we all really read everything and went slowly through the museum at times helping them find anwsers to their assignment. We all agreed this was the first time we really read everything in a museum. It really took time to get the anwsers but in the end we all enjoyed learning so much. Then we visited the shop on site and Maria bought a stuffed doll of Jackie and Mikey picked out little JFK and Jackie figures. Of course when we got back to the room they both created an "Opera" led by Mikey with their toys. It was a little disconcerting hearing four year old Maria singing with her Jackie doll "My husband's been shot." I guess they will retain what they learned for a long time.

Howdy from Dallas!

2008-11-20T18:04:00.000-08:00

The Morley family was reunited in Dallas last night. We were very happy to be together again. Maria and Mike flew on two planes to get to us. It was the first time Maria flew since she was two months old. Mike said she was good as gold and the Stewardess even smuggled some cookies to her. We dined with the Araujo's and Nims last night at "Denny's." Today we went with some of the other cast members to the Dallas Zoo. (Thank you, Clare and Will.) It was a gorgeous perfect Zoo day. It was sunny and just the right temperature. The kids and adults all enjoyed themselves. We witnessed the "Lemur's" doing something that we had to cover the kids eyes and then when another Lemur showed up it appeared that a huge arguement or "domestic incident" was happening. They were making some wild, loud and strange noises that Colin taped with his cell phone. The kids really liked going on the monorail and seeing some of the animals found in Africa. Alaggio and Chaz joined us for our last round of seeing animals and on the monorail. We had a great number of laughs with them especially when the Rhinocerous decided to poop in front of us! Maria really loved the Zebra and Giraffes. Mikey's favorite were the Pink Flamingos who were quiet when we came into the zoo and were making some real noises as we left. We also saw reptiles and some huge snakes. Maria decided she need to give Colin a personal tour and grabbed him by the hand to show him the different snakes. Elizabeth and Ira witnessed a snake ingesting a rat and filmed it. She shared the video of this with the kids on the bus ride back. (YUCK!) We then went to dinner at Sal's Pizzeria and Restaurant where I had the spiciest spaghetti sauce ever. ( I guess they make it hot in Texas!) We sat right next to a table full of Dallas Sheriffs. I could not miss this photo-op and told Mike to see if they would take a photo with him. Will post it later. Now we are relaxing in the room and just enjoying some family time. Maria and Mikey are having fun playing together and are putting on some play with his action figures. Until tomorrow.......................

Midwest City, OKLAHOMA!

2008-11-18T16:39:00.000-08:00

"OKLAHOMA, WHERE THE WINDS COME SWEEPING DOWN THE PLAINS.......AND THE CORN IS AS HIGH AS AN ELEPHANTS EYE.............." I have been dying to write this because I love the musical "Oklahoma!" As my poor neice and nephew know. Kevin and Jess the "Cowboys and the Indians Should Be Friends!" I really loved when the cast started singing it and having fun with it on the way to the theater. There was a lot of energy on the bus tonight so the show should be very good. Mikey is getting ready for the 730 show at the Rose State College Theater and then we return in the morning for a special 10 am performance for the students. Today the bus ride was not too bad, the scenery was filled with cows, cows, cows. We stopped for lunch at "Fridays" in Tulsa, Oklahoma on the way to Midwest City, Oklahoma where we are staying the night. We had a little time to relax at the hotel before the show and now are just hanging out in the dressing room. Tomorrow after the show we will travel to Dallas where Mike and Maria will meet us for a mini vacation. That all I got!

Hello from Lebanon, Missouri

2008-11-17T19:56:00.000-08:00

We loaded up the bus today at 730 and hit the road at 8. The travel felt really long today despite the stops. (The joints just ain't what they use to be.) The kids were happy to eat lunch at KFC and then we stopped once again to get gas. I don't think the convience store at the gas station knew what hit them. The cast raided the store, playing with the stuff animals and puppets and having a good old time. The kids just enjoy the playful cast members so much. There were different puppet show going on! We arrived in Missouri passing the St. Louis Arch again about 12 hours later. Mikey really loves that Arch and I am glad John and Missy got good photos (which I fully intend to steal ) since I did not have an oil can for my joints and could not move fast enough to take a picture. I did discover on this long bus ride that I have no control and cannot be trusted with Sweet Tarts. I ate a whole big thing of them all by myself within a half hour. After eating them my tongue felt like it got a facial with rough scrub. After school the kids and cast (that were awake) watched the movie "Wallie," courtesy of Q and John. When we arrived we quickly scouted out a place to eat and enjoyed dinner at "Gary's Catfish Restaurant" right near "Route 66." Now we are in the hotel room. Mikey is working on his homework and I finally have my legs stretched out laying on the bed writing this blog. Since I am fading fast I will say "Good Night." Kisses to Maria, Mike and Nana.

Hello Again from Toledo, Ohio

2008-11-16T15:42:00.000-08:00

We are at the theater waiting for the final show to begin. This is the last of six shows here. We just came back from a nice dinner at Jeds. The Moms gave John the afternoon off so he could do manly things like watching football. This worked out well because he went to the restaurant early and placed our orders so we would all have time to eat between shows. The timing was great as the food arrived as soon as we sat. I asked John how the football games were and rubbed it in that the NY Giants were 9 and 1. Go Giants! We all really loved the "Bucko Mucho" Steak at Jeds. Mikey's insisted on getting his own steak seemed to disappear in seconds. The matinee was crowded as all the shows here were. We are truly amazed when we watch and the professionalism of the kids and other actors when things don't go exactly right. Today Fagin's chest of jewels spilled on the stage and it was something to see how he worked it into the act and later the kids picked the stuff up as if it was part of the show. Nobody would know but us because we watched it XXXXX times! Mikey enjoying sketching some of the cast between acts during the matinee. He sketeched Ashley in costume during Oom Paah Pa and Rhiannon as a mermaid. I think he hopes she gets cast as Ariel once Oliver is over. It has been nice sleeping in the same bed for a few nights but sad to say we will be back on the bus again tomorrow headed for a long trip to Midwest City, Oklahoma. We can't wait until Wednesday when Mike and Maria join us in Dallas. We miss them so much. Well got to go to the show........................

Greetings from Toledo, Ohio

2008-11-15T10:36:00.000-08:00

Rain, Rain, Go Away, Come Back Another Day, the Oliver Cast wants to Play! It has been raining here for two days.....I mean really raining to the point where Q and I bought boots from the store and John bought boots and a poncho just to make the trek back to the hotel more bearable. (Poor Mikey, no boots in his size.) We arrived here Thursday, November 13th and after the show Mikey, John, Q and I went to have a bite to eat at "Jeds." Many of the cast members showed up in the same place and we really had to keep the boys at our table to give the cast some grown-up time. The boys really like hanging out with the ladies of the cast. At the recommendation of the waitress we had the best steak we had in a long time and the price was very reasonable. It was so good, Mikey starting stealing pieces off my plate and keeps asking to go back so he can have his own. (As many of you know this is a kid that doesn't like to eat that much.) The boys were really impressed with all the flat screen televisions in the place including in the booths. For a little while they deserted John and I to sit in a booth that had one of there shows on. On Friday John, Missy and I brought the kids to Friendly's for an early dinner before the show. We were all very bad in that we could not resist the desserts. Although Colin and Missy were better in that they shared their dessert. I had an Apple Pie Carmel Sunday and was not about to share with ANYONE! It was as good as it sounds. Today it was raining so hard when we trekked to breakfast at Brandy's Diner. I was very jealous of John's new poncho and wished I had bought one for myself. It is really nice being in one place for five days but we wish it would stop raining. It could be worst I guess, it could be snow.....then again, I think I rather walk in snow then this soaking, windy, rain. There are six shows here so the cast is very busy. We enjoyed having an almost day off yesterday because they did not have to go to the theater until 7pm. John, Q, Mikey and I risked getting wet and took the hike to Miejer's Department Store so the hotel walls did not close in on us. (Boy... will I appreciate my car when I go home.) The store was like a Super-Walmart and we got some good stuff that we needed (and some we didn't) including the boots mentioned above. I found a great buy on the shoes I was looking for and Mikey picked out a nice, cute, pretty gymnastic's outfit for his sister. He also made a deal with me to do an extra page of Math in a practice book I bought for him if I would get him a Star Wars set. Mikey and Q were really having fun playing with them at dinner yesterday and breakfast today. It was nice watching them just being kids and having fun. With there imaginations put together it was quite a production. They had a lot of energy in the show last night and an audience of about 2,000 really enjoyed the show at the Stranahan Theater. It was packed both nights so far. John and Q had guests in the audience and the kids really enjoyed the compliments they recieved after the show. Today, John, being the gentlmen he is, gave Missy and I an afternoon off and took the boys to the theater for us. That is why I have time to update this blog. I am really enjoying alone time in the room as I am sure my buddy Missy is. Mikey just phone me from the theater very excited to tell me that Spencer (the tour manger's 13 month old) is so cute and that he is having crawling contests with him in the hallway. He was very excited that Spencer hugged him for a long time. I think Mikey misses his little sister's hugs. Mikey and I are getting excited because Dad and Maria are flying to Dallas on Wednesday to spend five days off with us. We plan to make it like a little vacation and tour Dallas including going to six flags. I just got off the phone with Maria and she is very excited. She also has big news in that she got a new haircut today and I can't wait to see her. Today is my niece Kasey's birthday and nephew Sean's graduation so Maria is happy to be going to their party. Mikey and I wish we could be there and we called them both yesterday to congratulate them. I still can't get over how proud I am of Kasey making her High School JV Basketball Team. She is awesome! Well since I am starting to babble I will say goodbye for now.....

West Virgina

2008-11-13T07:37:00.000-08:00

"Country Roads, Take me Home....To a Place....I Belong....West Virgina......Blue Ridge Mountains, Shannondoah River.......I have been singing this song since I was a kid and finally .......after 12 plus hours......I HAVE ARRIVED! Now..... I can't get the song out of my head. "Mountain Mama....Take Me Home.....Country Roads." Not too much to report because we did not stay here long. The bus trip was pretty long but the New Yorker's can't complain because everyone else travelled from New London, picked us up in New York City and continued on to West, VA. They had 3 hours more on the bus then we did. We have a new bus with a table in the back for the kids to do school. There was a little confusion because the bus had a different number of seats and was configured differently but it is all settling down now. Everyone's seat is beginning to look like there living room again. (Only I don't have my Ocean View,my Plasma TV, Piano, big chair with Maria on lap.......and......why am I on this bus again?) Mikey and Jerimiah(tutor) really seemed to enjoy table when school was not in session. J helped Mikey tie up his Indiana Jones action figures and had them hanging off strings, saving the girl. Mikey had a whole production going on, with a sign and all. He also enjoyed sketching at the table but by the end of the trip he lost his cookies.....because the ride was really long it finally got to him. The next day we had a night show and the theater patrons invited us all to a reception at "Club Luna" next door to the theater. We had some great "Chinese Food." One of the theater goers told Mikey the ancient history of the club which really facinated him. Rhiannon really got Mikey and Q's eyes opening wide with her tales of energy and ghosts. The cast enjoyed talking to their fans and each other. We had some crazy dance moves going on at times. We have some great pictures which I will post later. Although I have advanced my skills since coming on tour thanks to Missy and John, I still have not mastered getting the photos from camera to computer. Hoping John will show me on this part of the trip now that I have bought the wires to my camera with me. The theater itself was very old and beautiful having been built in 1928. You could envision the "Phantom ofr the Opera" being present. Missy, John and I watched the whole show for the XXXXXX time but are still really enjoying it........some of us to much last night.....LOL,LOL,LOL,LOL, LOL, LOL,......and I mean literally......... Missy and John know what I am talking about! All kidding aside, we enjoyed seeing Ashley perform as the "Strawberry Seller" ....she did an amazing job. I forgot to write last time that we have some new members. We have a new Tour Manager (Clare with her beautiful son Spencer and husband Bart) and a new bus driver (Will). Andrew has also left to perform in 42 Street and we welcome Adam to the cast. We wish Tyler, Kim, John and Andrew good luck in there new gigs and will miss you. We are on the bus now on way to Toledo, Ohio for a few days........."Be Back Soon!"

New London Report

2008-11-13T07:03:00.000-08:00

We had a nice time in New London. My friend Lori took the ferry over from Long Island to see the show and is in serious competition with Aunt Eileen for being Mikey's number one fan(if you don't count me.) Mikey really appreciates these two favorite ladies of his for traveling to see him. Mom (me) really appreciated that her wonderful husband gave Lori and I, a "Girl's Night Out" and we had some wonderful steak and frozen drinks at the OutBack. Back home we always go out for a birthday dinner because our birthdays are only a few day apart. This time we also went to a birthday lunch and Lori tried her first Shepard's Pie at the Irish pub across from the theater. It was nice chatting and catching up. I also got to introduce two women I greatly admire and appreciate: Lori (my old travel buddy from FBI days) and Missy my new travel buddy. Lori enjoyed meeting Missy because she has heard all the bad things (LOL) I have been saying about her! I think Missy has the thumbs up from Lori and she feels better about me traveling now. It was nice having Mike (Dad) and Maria (sister) on the road with us even if it was brief. Maria really loved the show again and when I asked her what her favorite part was she did an amazing performance for a 4 year old of belting out "As Long As He Needs Me." I think Rhiannon better watch out.....I have a future "Nancy" on my hands. I caught all the Dad's (Mike, John and Steve) bonding at intermission during the afternoon show. John seemed really happy to be with the men for a change! Mike (DAD) got a little taste of being on the road and how we have to go on food mission. When we tried to eat at the Outback between shows we were told there was a 45 minute wait and obviously we could not do that so we had to find another plan. We could see a Pizza Hut across a few highways which normally Johnn, Missy, the kids and I would have to find a way to hike too. We were lucky to have Mike's car, boy did it make a difference. The Araujo's and the Morley's enjoyed Pizza together and the two Dad's enjoyed coloring the placemats( where is Missy with her camera.) On Saturday the food mission began again when we tried to go to the Diner that we went to the day before only to find out it closed at noon. We then walked to a Pizza Place and sat there being ignored for 10 minutes when nobody else was even in the place. We took the hint and left and were very happy with the Irish Pub. (Mike got a tast of what we go through with the food missions.) On Sunday the New Yorkers left the rest of the cast and were able to go home for two days. This gave Mikey the opportunity to see "Prisoner of Second Avenue" at the Rockaway Theater Company with his Dad. They both really enjoyed the show! Congrats to David, Jodee, Peggy, Michael and cast. He also got to see Reilly again.
Another plus about being home on Monday was we got to see the newest addition to our family. My new nephew was born that same day. He is also my Godson:Jack Alexander weighed in at 10lbs 11 oz and 23 inches long. Maria was a little upset because she was to young to go uedp to the hospital room but we promised Daddy would take her to see him next week. My niece Kasey also received the awesome news that after grueling tryouts she made the JV Basketball Team of St. Francis Prep H.S. We are so exicted and proud for her. She worked hard to get on the team. My sister Mary can stop biting her nails now! It was tough leaving home again and I miss my baby girl and her daddy already!

Back Too Soon!

2008-11-07T19:36:00.000-08:00

Hello from New London CT. We are both happy and sad to be back. It was so good seeing all our family and friends back home. The first week was very sad. The morning we arrived home my stepfather passed away and the whole family mourned his loss. The funeral did bring our large family all together in one place. I thank all our friends for their condolences, thoughts and prayers. On the lighter side I was thrilled to be home to spend time with my beautiful daughter Maria and my handsome husband Mike. Mikey had fun trick or treating with his friends Kayla and Caroline and then going to Alex's party. He had fun running into his class mates while trick or treating. He loved being a hippy from the 60's and nobody recognized him! Maria was the Wicked Witch from the Wizard of Oz (green face and all). He also was surrounded a couple of times when he visited the school yard as his class was getting out. It was great to see all his friends. He did complete most of his to do list. Homework being number one! He visited his friends at the Rockaway Theater Company and Setting the Stage. He really enjoyed telling his friends about tour life. He got to watch the dress rehearsal for Prisoner of Second Ave. (Thanks, Kerry, Reilly and Peggy). He also went bike riding with his friends Will and Michael(I had heart failure!) I got to play princessess with Maria, go to lunch with Denise, Caroline and Reilly, clean out closets, shop for new clothes for her, get my eyes examined (should have had my head examined instead!), go on a date with my husband, dine out with girlfriends \(Thanks, Jo, Lisa and Marge), enjoy a homecooked birthday dinner (thanks Mom,) do laundry without paying.....you get the idea. I miss home already! There are three shows this weekend in New London. The drive from Rockaway was really not bad. It took us 2 and one-half hours but it was all I95 and the leaves were all beautiful with the colors at Peak. My friend Lori is taking the ferry from LI to see the matinee tomorrow and we are very excited to have company. Okay time to say goodnight!

Good Afternoon from Florida

2008-10-26T10:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we all had the day off. We slept late, went to the Waffle House and then to Kmart. Then most of us slugged out in our rooms enjoying the rare day off. We began packing all our stuff up on the bus. Your seat really become like a home. People have curtains, rugs, blankets, sheets, pillows, pictures, cup holders, drawings, flowers, extension cords, stuff animals, books and organizers. It is amazing what everyone can accumulate so quickly to make a small space your very own. We are getting a new bus when we return so we had to buy some tubs to pack all this stuff in and leave on the truck until we return from the break.

After being lazy all afternoon, we went with John, Missy and the kids to dinner at a place called "Two Guys." The Banana Pudding was good and we gave John some toys for his birthday to keep him young. I think he liked the "Parchute Soldiers" better than the "High School Musical headphones" but I can't be sure. After dinner the kids engaged Rhiannon, Melissa and Dave in a mean game of Uno. I think everyone tried to cheat but Rhiannon and Dave. The kids really had to keep their eye on Melissa and busted her with several cards tucked into the couch. The game was never ending so we had to finally call it quits so we can go back to our rooms and pack up.

Now get ready for another gross story from the road. After packing, Mikey and I were reading our books in bed when he stood up screaming on the bed. (In High Soprano) The biggest, blackest, thick legged, spider we ever seen decided to walk across his bedspread and say hello to us while he was reading in bed. I guess the Spider was saying good-bye and wanted us to remember our time in Tennessee. Either that or he was trying to make Mikey the new Spider Man! I had the wonderful job of killing this Spider. I knew if I did not kill it, I would not be able to sleep all night. Unfortunately, once you see a spider on your bed, you don't sleep anyway and when you do you are fighting spiders in your sleep.
Anyway, everyone is really excited about flying to their homes tomorrow for ten days. The kids are doing school on the bus right now on the way to Tallahassee, Fl. The tutor has given them all assignments to do during the break to keep them up with their school work. We have a show tonight and then the theater is throwing a small reception for the cast. We have a 430am bus call to the airport but who cares....we are going home! Mikey has a long list of things he wants to do when he gets home: Go to Blockbuster and rent two movies. Make Popcorn. Go on a bike ride with Dad. Play with Maria. Visit all his cousins. See all his friends. P--P in his own house. Go to the Movies. Sleep without spiders. Etc... That is it for now.....

Good Morning from Pembroke, Tenessee

2008-10-25T08:03:00.000-07:00

We are enjoying our day off and Mikey is sleeping in after helping Q's family celebrate John's Birthday after the show. The kids had a blast and Q's little sister Reina, Mom and friends gave us a little show singing "Green Eggs and Ham" from Seussical. The Araujo family is very talented and Mom and Reina are currently in Seussical in their home town of VA. As much as I love Oliver, it was great to hear a different song. The kids also entertained us with their version of Mama Mia until we got a noise complaint and had to close down the show! Q had many friends from his local theater (Hurrah Players) and family come to the show last night and then helped celebrate John's Birthday. It was so nice to meet John's Mom. She raised such a good son I couldn't wait to meet her.

I think I am finally over the laundrymat. After that we got to watch the understudy rehearsals and I was so proud watching Mikey play Oliver. It was the first time the understudies got to rehearse and there was little warning or prep. He did great. Sometimes I have to remind myself that he is only nine years old. You could really see how excited he was for the opportunity and so happy to be on stage with some of his favorite ladies (Erin as Nancy, Ashley as Bet and Jen as Dodger.) We got a real kick out of seeing how the other actors played the characters.

Today we plan to shop at Kmart and start packing our stuff up from the bus because we will be flying home early Monday. The shuttle will take us to the airport around 430am and should be in NYC by 1105. I can't wait to be able to read bedtime stories to Maria and sleep with my husband again in my own bed. Well it is time to shop....

Horror at the Laundrymat

2008-10-23T20:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know I told you in the last post that Missy and I would be on a mission to find a laundry. Little did I know what a mission it would be. I am sorry to tell you that we found one. Boy-Oh-Boy did we! Of course it wasn't easy. We asked the hotel shuttle driver to bring us to what we thought was a good laundry. She took the scenic route instead of following the directions we gave her. When we finally found the place it was closed. We thought thank goodness because we did not like the look of it. Of course we did not give up looking for another and luckily, I thought at the time....I have a back up plan ( having been a girl scout.) I had an address for another laundry that I looked up on mapquest. When we finally found it the shuttle driver was afraid to let us out.....(with good reason.) This place made the other place look like a palace. Just glancing in our instincts told us it was not a good place to be. But being the good Mom's we are, we were really determined to get the laundry done at any cost. The first clue that made us think maybe we were better off with dirty clothes and no undies was the sign that read: "Only the attendant can call 911." As a former cop, I have to say this was a very interesting sign to read, let just say the hackles were raised up on my neck. Undeterred we forged on and proceeded to put our clothes in the dirtiest washer machines we ever saw at $4.00 a wash no less. Hey, dirt doesn't come cheap! Then we began to read the rest of the signs: "No Drugs because Mr. Lyle will prosecute." "Drinking allowed only with shoes and shirts on." (We speculated pants were not needed.) "Patrons must stay inside." Then Missy noticed there was actually a bar in the laundrymat and decided this place was so disgusting we needed a cold beer to get us through it. I tried to protest but she would not take no for an answer. Rochester ladies are tough! Since I am not a beer drinker, I was hoping she was talking about one of the small nip bottles, but she insisted that in this place we needed a pint each. Since this would be my second beer in about twenty years (I won't say who made me drink my first on this tour but you can probably guess) I figured she was right...in this place I needed it. So we proceed to sit at this brown picnic type table and drink our beers as the people in the place looked at us like we were from MARS. Missy asked me if I was trained in self-defense and I told her I use to be but wasn't sure I could still lift my legs high enough. Then we strategized our defense plan should we need it. She suggested fingers in eyes and I suggested breaking the beer bottles if necessary and using them as weapon. If only I had my piece! Oh, the fun we were having! It just doesn't get any more glamorous then this! Then Missy gets up to check on her wash and I notice we have company at the table....not just any company but the brown,disgusting, cochroach kind moving across the table and blending in with the color. As I quickly jump up and grab our beers....God knows we really need them now, I notice another one crawling on the floor...sorry to be so disgusting but this story needs to be told so I don't have nightmares. Needless to say there was no more sitting for the next hour and we stood tap dancing (better than Andrew) in front of our washers and dryers. Thank goodness the dryers got so hot that our fingers burned touching the clothes. We figured nothing alive was coming out of the dryer. The shuttle driver agreed to come back for us....we think cause she wanted to make sure we were still alive. When she came back she told us her boss said "Don't tell me you left those ladies at THAT laundrymat." I can tell you we were so happy to see her and be out of that place we tipped her very well. I have to say the Mom's went above and beyond today to give their little stars clean laundry. Goodnight and pleasant dreams......I am trying not to itch just thinking about this. I think I have PTS from it......Can't wait to do laundry at my own house on Monday. I think I am going to kiss the washer and dryer!

South Carolina

2008-10-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone. Last night the show went great and John, Q, Mikey and I tried to get some Wendy's afterwards. AS usual the food mission was difficult. After going in the open door the cashier decided they were closed, somebody was suppose to lock the door and they are only serving the drive-in customers. We tried to explain we did not have a car and the boys were hungry...couldn't you pretend we have a car. Of course they were heartless and did not care that our kids were hungry after performing. It turns out it was a good thing Wendy's kicked us out because we then ran into Chaz, Rhiannon and Melissa who invited us to eat with them at the Ale House and had a much better time. It was a nice restaurant with good food and we all had a nice time sharing all our thoughts.... I hope Rhiannon's ears are okay after Mikey and Q kept chatting to her at dinner and on the walk back. It was also great, as always, sharing a meal with fellow RTC member Chaz. He is very supportive of the boys with there acting and the parents really appreciate him. Chaz and Nancy had an exciting morning promoting the show on a TV station. Chaz also was in the local paper here after he gave an interview to them while in Binghamton. He is a SC native so they wrote about that. Mikey is very excited today because they are having understudy rehearsals today and he gets to play Oliver. He is really looking forward to working with his fellow understudies and interested to see how they all play their roles. It should be a lot of fun for him. Missy and I will be on our other favortie mission: searching for a laundrymat while they rehearse so we don't have to come back from the break to dirty clothes. We will be home this Monday and I can't wait to see Maria, Mike and Mom. I miss them so much. Love to all.

Greetings from South Carolina

2008-10-22T07:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, late afternoon we arrived in South Carolina. It is sunny and nice, not to hot, not to cold. Missy, John and I took the kids to a nice restaurant for dinner since we were sick of eating in the chain food stores. Mikey and I had a steak with baked potatoes that tasted delicious. Q was very cute when he ordered Sir Lion not to be mixed up with (sirlion.) LOL. After dinner we walked back to the hotel passing some very historic streets in South Carolina and a really old cemetary. We saw the Captial building and the Supreme Court. As we walked we read the plaques that dedicated different streets to former Generals that fought in the American Revolution. You felt a real sense of history as you walked. When we went back to the hotel the cast surprised Rhiannon (Nancy) with an engagement party in Zac's (Fagin) room. They were very creative with rose petals all over the room and beds as well as nice pink balloons. The boys had a lot of fun throwing the rose petals when Rhiannon entered the room. Chaz did a good job keeping her busy until it was time and we thought Alaggio would have a heart attack guarding the door until she came. He looked like a father pacing the hospital floor waiting for his child to be born. (LOL) Quentin was showing everybody his dance moves and although Erin tried I think Q wins the dance challenge. Rhiannon told us all about Brendan and their first date and courtship. After, that "We all fell in love with Brendan. We all wish Rhiannon and Brendan a "Happily Ever After." They are two really nice people and deserve loads of happiness. After about an hour we had to drag the kids out of the party to do their homework. The sounds in the hall told me the cast somehow manage to continue the party without us.

We will be here in SC until Friday morning where we then start our trek to Tallahassee, Fl. We have shows here tonight and tomorrow night. We are free during the day, except the kids do three hours of school. We are getting closer to coming home and we can't wait. Next Tuesday, back in Rockaway! Scroll down and look left to see some photos. That is it for now........................

Greetings from Richmond, VA

2008-10-20T18:34:00.000-07:00

The bus trip wasn't too bad today. Mikey was happy to catch a glimpse of the Washington Monument. We arrived safely and Missy, John the kids and I began our search mission for food. It is becoming a ritual. I think we are all getting tired of eating out and since we had so many choices tonight (which is rare) it made it very difficult to decide what to eat. We went in Panera's and could not decide so we walked out and then finally decided on Mexican. Then we received the delightful news that there is only one washing machine in the hotel and two buses full of people that need to do laundry including me. Guess I will wait until next stop. I really hope I don't dream about a laundrymat again. Although last night I dreamt I knew how to disco roller skate again. I was sad when I realized it was only a dream. Mikey and I just reviewed his Science Chapter on Adaptions:Structural and Behavioral. It doesn't get any more exciting then this! I had a choice between trying russian raspberry vodka or studying Science. Of course being the good mother that I am we studied Science. Now I know that a kangeroo's pouch is a structural adaptation and a spider making a web is a behavorial adaptation. Which by the way are inherited unlike a dog learning to sit which is a learned behavior. Now I really wish I chose the vodka! Okay, I am losing it! Only 7 days to homecoming. Goodnight!

Binghamton

2008-10-20T07:39:00.000-07:00

It was a family weekend in Binghamton. Mikey's family and Colin's (Dodger) family came to see the show for the first time. Rhiannon (Nancy) got engaged to Brendon. There was happiness and love all around. Mikey and I were so happy that Maria, Dad, Aunt Eileen and Reilly Ann Charles were with us this weekend. Maria hugged me for 10 minutes straight and I loved every minute of it. Aunt Eileen gave Mikey his first bunch of flowers since doing this show. Maria loved her new dress and dolls that Mikey bought for her. Reilly's Mom sent cookies and they were a big hit. They couldn't have disappeared more quickly if a magician did a trick. On the first night the families all got together in Colin's Aunt Cee Cee's room. It was nice meeting everyone. Maria had a great time playing with Q and Colin. Mikey and Reilly were in a world of their own and acting like two peas in a pod. On Sunday the kids had two shows. Reilly loved seeing the dressing room and even got to see "Mike Check" before the show started. The kids seemed to know they had a special audience and really performed their hearts out. After the matinee, Colin's Dad, Steve arranged a nice dinner for the families at an Italian restaurant near by. Quentin and John our adopted road family of course joined us. The boys had to be back early for the second show, so John graciously took them back so Missy and I could spend more time with our families. Reilly and Mikey got a little choked up saying goodbye....but that was no real surprise with these two. Reilly requested that if we go on Tour in the future please look for girl roles for her as well. She asked if she could hide on the bus and travel with us for a week. I was tempted to say yes but I figured her sister Devon would be upset. She is really sweet and Mikey is lucky to have such a good friend. Maria and Mikey hugged each other tightly and Mikey's tears started to flow. He got through it knowing he would be home in seven days for a break. Maria was a trooper but made me promise to do puzzles with her when we came home. I told her to mark the calendar every day so she knows when 7 days is. She told Mikey he did a good job as "Charlie." She really enjoyed the show although we thought she would fall asleep in the first act because her cough kept her up the night before in the hotel room. She seemed to perk up when she heard the song "That's Your Funeral." She loves that song for some reason. She was able to keep awake until just before the murder of Nancy, thank goodness she fell asleep before that. It was hard saying goodbye to my handsome husband and darling little girl and I can't wait to see them next week. Mike plans to drive us to New London Ct to extend our break. Hope some of the other family members can make the trip and see the show. This is the closest we will be to home. Now we are back on the bus and heading for a stopover in Richmond VA. We are traveling to South Carolina and the next show is Wednesday. Before I sign off, there is a rumor as we leave Binghamton that a tree is missing and that this city will never be the same since Cee Cee and friends had a night on the town! My only regret is that I could not join them! That is all for now............

Greetings from Owensboro, Kentucky

2008-10-16T10:52:00.000-07:00

We are finally...........off the bus! The kids enjoyed watching two movies on the long bus ride. "The Little Rascals and Hocus Pocus." As much as I love Bette Midler, I have to say HP was really bad although everybody seemed to enjoy it. Last night on the way here we stopped at the Columbia Mall in Missouri. Mikey was very excited to buy his sister Maria a dress for the upcoming Matinee in Binghamton. We both miss her so much and can't wait to see her. He also loved seeing the huge Carousel inside the Mall and was wishing Maria was there so he could go on with her. Mikey was also very excited to see the Arch in St. Louis. Unfortunately, it was to dark to take a picture and we passed it too quickly. Everyone is happy to be at the hotel here, especially since it is surrounded by so many places to eat. This becomes so important when you are on a bus tour. The first question is always "Is there any place to eat around here?" Some of the places we stayed you really had to go on a mission for food. The second important question is "How many, if any, washers and dryers are on site?" Of course the first from the kids is usually, "Is there a Pool?" It was nice sleeping in late today but when I woke I was dreaming about going to the laundrymat. Then I found out Missy beat me to the washer this morning...my dream must have been a premonition. She kindly added a pair of Mikey's sweats to her load and I thank her! We enjoyed having breakfast with John and Quentin at Denny's and not having to get right on the bus when we finished. The kids are in school now and there is a show tonight at River Park in Kentucky at 7pm.

On Way to Kentucky

2008-10-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

Last night, after a long bus trip where the cast helped entertain the kids playing games (or the kids entertained the cast, depending on whose perspective,) we arrived at the hotel almost at 1am last night.Erin was the lucky winner of the cast pool money for guessing correctly what time we would arrive. Missy and John were really close.....but no cigar! I was soooooooooooo looking forward to jumping right into bed but after playing treasure hunt to find our room we discovered the toliet did not work. After dealing with the toliet on the bus...I really wanted a working one in the hotel! We had to find our way back to the lobby (thank goodness we left a bread crumb trail). After Tyler graciously helped us get assigned to a new room it was a new adventure to find the actual stair case that led to the 2nd floor. Since the last two hotels did not have elevators I have to really thank the crew for helping the tired cast and parents. The crew came through for the second night in a row. Thanks David for helping the night before and Walter for saving the day yesterday because at that time of night the luggage feels about 300 lbs. I have to say the three boys have been exceptionally good on the bus and I am very proud of them. Three hours is usually spent on school with the Jerimiah, the tutor. He usually lets them take a nap before beginning school on these long bus rides. After school the kids have been reading, playing their computer or DS games and chatting with the other cast members. Mikey is really looking forward to seeing his sister, Dad and Aunt Eileen in Binghatom this weekend. He sends a shout out to Reilly and wants his friends and family to know he will "Be Back Soon." Now we are back on the bus on way to Kentucky. Driving through some cloudy weather but we left the snow behind in Montana with the bears. We are expected to arrive sometime after 9pm. We have a show tomorrow night so we will be able to rest in the hotel all day tomorrow. That is all for now.

Related Blogs

2008-10-14T19:32:00.000-07:00

http://olivertour08.blogspot.com/

http://olivernationaltour08.blogspot.com/

Mikey-Oliver National Tour 2008

2008-10-14T18:41:00.000-07:00

Hi all. Don't faint, but I am so bored on this bus right now that I have decided to try to create a blog to document the rest of Mikey's tour. We have had quite a few days. We had a great time in Casper, Wyoming with the cast's 80's Roller Skating Party. Everyone got into the spirit of things and my hair made me look ten feet tall. Mikey was very cool looking with his DA blown hair and Jordache Jacket that Missy, John and Erin helped him find in a thrift store. Mikey had a great time and just let me say that I finally realize as my birthday is fast approaching that I can no longer Disco Roller Skate like I use to. After surviving barely going around the rink twice I turned the skates in for my sneakers! All this fun was followed by the bus trip from hell the next day. Missy, Mikey, Quentin, John and I all managed to get varying levels of food poisioned at the same time on one of the longest bus rides ever. The bus broke down on a Montana (I think) Mountain in the middle of a snow storm next to a tall sign with a Bear on it that said "Grizzly Encounters." It was very comforting in the dark. We were on the bus sick from 8am until about 1am. We are feeling much better now and the show yesterday was great in, no pun intended, "Great Falls" Montana. We are now on a 3 day bus trip to Kentucky. We passed by Mt. Rushmore but did not have time to stop. We will arrive at the hotel in Sioux FAlls Iowa tonight and then continue on tomorrow. If I am rambling it is because I now live on a bus! Will post photos once I learn how. Please see facebook for now. Love to all. Sue and Mikey