Hello world! Welcome back to another blog and the final weekly highlights of 2023! Here is what I got up to in prep for the festive period.
Monday: To start off the day I watched more of Saturdays semi final of Strictly Come Dancing. As always I knew who would be out but it’s good to watch it so that I can get the day off to a good start, even if I did wake my dad up with the tv on abit louder than normal. But I couldn’t help it when Layton and Nikita got another 40 for their Charleston, and to a song which I predicted as well.
I then made my way to work, which was a decent shift. It always is on Mondays. After I finished work, I then had my usual nap and took my dog for a walk before I had my lunch. During my lunch I had a phone call for a potential new day job. I didn’t really know what it to expect at first and I’ll be honest… unless if you count using a word document, I’ve not done any admin work before. But I know there’s a first time for everything and as I’m writing this, I’m meeting with them next Tuesday to talk about what’s on offer. This was the followed by watching the rest of Strictly Come Dancing. Yes I may have ran over my schedule but I don’t regret it, as sometimes your body may need that extra rest or time to wake up.
I then listened to the start of a recording from my acting class. This is so that in prep for next session, I can note what I like. And because it was the final class coming up, it was now more important than ever to recap on it. I then moved onto learning lines for my I'm a celebrity sketch and a self-tape I wrote myself. But I made the decision to film it after Christmas, as even though the storyline it's inspired by may be at its peak, I don't want to overwhelm myself and exhaust myself before Christmas. This was then followed by another session of Yoga, where I feel I was in the position in some of the poses, but I continued and a well needed session it was.
Soon afterwards I scheduled the next day whilst I listened to an Act On This broadcast, which was then followed by watching coronation street from 6th and 8th December. I dread to think what Daniel will do after he finds out a big secret from Daisy and Ryan. I get that he's heartbroken, and that what he plans to do is not the best thing. however, when you maker Daniel Osborne angry, there's no coming back, and after seeing the spoilers, it's all going to get heated. I also hope that Evelyn doesn't get into too much trouble which involves a canine companion. I get that she's passionate about it, especially if it was her Cerberus (her old dog), but how she's dealing with it is not the best way. After seeing the spoilers, it looks as though she will get herself into more trouble.
I then watched the I'm A Celebrity final. Even though I knew who won through social media (and a well deserved winner they were) I knew I had to watch it with it being not on for another year after that. And what a final it was, as whilst I wasn't sure about it at first, the final really made it up for it. I then ended the day with checking my socials and learning some more Korean.
Tuesday: To kick off today I started with watching Mondays addition of Doctors. I think with the power of persuasion Rob has given someone a reality check and that not everyone is happy with the secret dinner held for Al. With it being the last week before Christmas as well I hope we can leave it on a good note.
I then made my way to the gym. I managed to do some boxing for a second time on the lunch bag. It may have not been great but I grave it a good go. And that’s what it’s all about. On the way back I rehearsed some lines for a sketch I was going to film later on along with my lines for my self written self tape. As soon as I got back I applied for some jobs on Spotlight (with some of the ones I wanted also being subbed by my agent) and I filmed my sketch. I wasn’t surprised that I missed a couple of subs as I was under the weather. But then I thought that for every job I miss there will always be something greater. And that’s the mindset I’m keeping up.
I then sorted out my payouts for the site and also the promotional side and then I rang Steve Watson about the project. But he said that another one of my colleague couldn’t make it so we had to reschedule. However after abit it miscommunication we managed to come up with a plan. As I’m writing this it’s literally making my brain explode again. But I know now I’ve come too far to back down now. This also gave me the chance to set up my Go fund me page and my call out for a role in my film.
To settle for lunch I watched the first episode of Squid Game: The Challenge. I’ve been meaning to watch this for ages as I’m a huge fan of the original series. And it lived up to its expectation, and I think it featured tasks that wasn’t in the original series which I think it’s what made it brilliant. And with the second series now casting I’m tempted to do it. Thankfully you don’t actually die when you’re eliminated so that’s always a bonus.
To kick off the afternoon I did a mixture of things. These included emailing a few more creatives about what I’ve been up to and messaging my group about the film. I know I don’t want to be too harsh but I also need to put my foot down and be honest with everyone. This also gave me a new found respect for people who are not only directors but leaders in all jobs.
I then took a few moments to run through some day jobs and doing a few surveys. This was then followed by watching the rest of a Daz Black video whilst learning some lines. This video was where he reacted to Andrew Tate and the way he gives his view and how men shouldn’t be like Andrew himself is incredible. if anyone has not seen it I highly recommend you do, and yes it’s long one but the detail he goes into is so worth it in the end.
That evening I then had another meeting for my film. Once again it was a small turnout and whilst I’m not there to judge anyone, I fear that some who have not been in touch have recently have backed out. So during the meeting I made it clear to let me know ASAP how committed you are otherwise I may potentially need to recast some parts. But I’m going to learn to also have fun with it, as that’s what it’s mainly all about.
Soon afterwards I decided to chill and watched Gogglebox (but not before my dog decided to sit on my sisters head as you can see above and later on when she was tired after a long day of being Margo). They reacted to it all, from Strictly to new show The Couple Next Door. I’ve been meaning to watch that show for a while as it looks amazing. And with the clips from Gogglebox it has literally drawn me in more. I then finally ended the day with checking my socials whilst scheduling tomorrow and learning some Korean. I knew that tomorrow would be a challenging day, but sometimes you need to step outside of your comfort zone to achieve great things. And that is what I intend to do.
Wednesday: To start off Wednesday I watched Tuesdays addition of Doctors. I was so happy Bear was able to help someone with their identity even if it meant his wife having to find out the hard way. I then went to the gym. As before I managed to do some boxing which has helped me to de stress a lot. But on the way there and back I just simply took in the fresh air and it was definitely what I needed. And with my project coming to ahead exercise was now crucial for me.
After walking my dog and nudging my agent on some jobs on Spotlight, I managed to have a 1-2-1 with one of my cast members. I think it went really well, as we managed to get in depth of her character, the costume she would wear and any other additional information. It’s moments like this where once I know what to get out of it it’s definitely more enjoyable.
As I had plenty of time on my hands I spent the rest of the morning editing my I’m A Celebrity sketch. And I was pleased with the result. It took a while but the final product looked amazing. And with the coming out show tonight, this could not have been done at a more perfect timing. During lunch I watched a new series called The Couple Next Door. I’ve seen snippets of it on Gogglebox, and already I was so intrigued to watching this thrilling series. Already after episode 1, where it was both heartbreaking and surprising, I’m glad I started it.
This afternoon didn’t go as planned. Originally I was meant to be going to the venue to record a promo for my film. But because of issues beyond my control I couldn’t go. So a new arrangement must be done, but I need to make sure I’m okay with it all. But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel overwhelmed by it (thanks Adam the autistic brain). So I calmed down by gathering some day players roles and scenes from Hollyoaks and Doctors and learnt a script that needs to be sent in by the next day. I know it was a rush as it was posted 2 days ago, but I think as long as I now my lines and be instinctive with my objective (which is to engage people) then I should be all good.
After watching episode 2 of Squid Game: The Challenge (with the rest of it being watched later on) I then had my acting class. This was the final proper session for our livestream and it actually went better than I expected. I think all I need to do is recap some notes on the recoding and then gather my costume for the big performance. I’m nervous but excited about what’s to come but also reproved as it’ll give me 2 weeks to just relax and recuperate for the holidays.
After class I got ready for bed but not before as always checking my socials and learning some more Korean. I managed to complete my daily goals and once again I was proud of myself as I didn’t get the chance to these past few days. It the relive I felt was incredible. I also scheduled tomorrow, where after a chat with my dad he insisted on making the recipe. I was concerned as I may have passed on my illness to him, but he insisted as it gives me a break. It’s moments like this where I’m grateful for my father as yes even though he is a little bit poorly he’ll still make sure that he takes any extra pressure off me as and when he can.
Thursday: To start off the day I watched Mondays addition of Hollyoaks. Now I’ve never met Jacqui McQueen before, but now I wish I had. She sounds like she’s had it just as bad as Mercedes. But the advice she gave was actually decent for once. Maybe Mercedes did what she did because she was scared to allow herself to be happy. I do relate on thy topic as there have been many times where I could have happiness on a romantic level but I was scared to commit. But now I’m learning that whatever happens happens. I’m 23 years old at the end of the day so I have my whole life to find the person for me. And when I do I want it to add to my life.
I then made my way to the gym. Sadly I couldn’t do any boxing due to a private session, but I had a good workout all in all. It was also weird as there was someone who I feel should represent GB in the next Olympics and there have been many occasions where I wanted to say hello. But thanks to Adam the autistic brain, my social cues were not quite clear. But if I do seek him again, I may ask one of my dads friends (who often comes in) or my other friend from the gym to help me out. On the way there and back I learnt my lines for the self tape my agent subbed me for. When I got back it seemed to have paid off. Despite the tight squeeze I managed to get it in, and fingers crossed everything falls into place.
Soon afterwards I had a mammoth session of updating my contacts table and also emailing some more creatives. This is just to let them know what I’ve been up to before I break off for the holidays, telling them about the livestream and when I need to contact them again. Although after my teacher mentioning last night that we may record it a different way, I’m slightly conscious that those who I’ve emailed will not be able to access it. Either way I’ll announce what’s happening on my social media handles.
I then moved onto finishing my book “Thieves”. I don’t think for me personally it gave me the wow factor, but I’m glad it read it, as the reason why one of the main characters did what they did was understandable. Maybe not the right way but I did see what they were coming from.
Soon afterwards I moved onto Thursdays addition of Hollyoaks. I do hope that Yazz doesn’t do the dirty on Tom, as originally I thought Tom may have some input on why she’s doing what she’s doing, but I fear that she’ll possibly break his heart again. I hope she doesn’t but I fear it’s happening. And Zoe is also getting suspicions on Warren when questioning about Mercedes. Little does she know though…
I then watched the first part of Wednesdays addition of Doctors whilst I had my lunch. This was a little touching, as Nina helped a patient going through their first Christmas without a loved one. That’s something I never really understood but now that as I’ve got older I realised that now that my mum is gone she’s never coming back. But I know I’ll always have her in my heart. I then made my way to work. On the way there I noticed one of the guys who got drunk on the way back from Nottingham last week, and that was spooky. I didn’t know whether to wave or ignore him as he was quite explicit. But then again maybe it’s the alcohol talking.
After getting some stuff and noting some more jobs on Spotlight, I started work. This was actually a decent shift for once, as after not feeling well last week the day off was much needed. I also had one of the security guards to make sure I was okay which was really sweet of them. It’s moments like this where he’s you wouldn’t want to mess with them but they do have a heart of gold. I also saw a gym goer who I haven’t seen in a while, and I have a feeling he’s taken. Which a shame as he looked cute and I thought he had potential, but me breaking up a relationship for my own feelings is not my personality. But I at least want him to be my friend.
As I got back I had my tea whilst I rang Steve about the plans for tomorrow. And now I seriously need to get their biogs and photos in, and I’m aware they also have lives, one of which is in panto. But I think with my template of mine it should be all good. I then of course ended the day with checking my socials and learning some more Korean. I only did one session tonight knowing that it would make me tired and that I have a long day tomorrow.
Friday: Before I went to work I had a very productive morning. This included updating my budgeting table, posting my I'm A Celebrity sketch into 3 of my social media handles (Instagram, X (formerly known as Twitter) and TikTok) and messaging a colleague about my project and replying to those who are interested in my film. I was quite proud of myself for it, as its moments like these where whilst I'm still working a day job, I need to look at what I can do before i start and when I finish. This was a fine example of that.
I then started work. It was a better day today, as I saw someone who goes to my gym shopping (I was going to say hi to them but I was int he middle of a job) and after speaking to my line manager and the branch manager about sharing my go fund me page, it has been a better day (touch wood). During lunch I drafted out my reviews of the shows I’ve seen for my blog, which I’m going to post over the holidays.
Soon after work, I went to the Flying Circus to film a promotional video for my go fund me page, hoping to get some more donations in the process. Now its all starting to feel real, and I couldn't help but shed a tear or 2 during the filming. I was surprised that I managed to hold it back, as normally when I start crying I can't stop. But I held it together and with the help of editing it together, we can get more donations coming in. This was then followed by walking my dog and doing some yoga when I come back to help me calm down after a chaotic day.
I then watched Thursdays addition of Hollyoaks whilst I got ready for tomorrow. It’s clear that Felix is adamant that he’s done looking for Mercedes, and I really don’t want Carter to mess Maxine around, and that I still think that she and beau are the better match. However regardless of Carter if I was there I can’t make them do anything they don’t want to do. I also thought that Vicky got the surprise of her life when she meets a new visitor.
I then settled into the evening with watching the first night of the world darts championships. I’ve only watched 2 games as I need to be up early tomorrow but already I’m intrigued by what they have to offer. But Rusty-Jake Rodriguez definitely struggled, but I guess that comes with the pressure of playing on the first night. I then finally checked my socials and learnt some more Korean with my dog being a brilliant help as you can see below. I competed 2 of my daily goals but not all of them. So I did small lessons as a recap.
Saturday: To kick off the day I listened to the first part of an act on this broadcast. This one was about goal setting, which gave me some real indication on what I would like to achieve in 2024 and how to get there. I then made my way to work and surprisingly I wasn’t tired. Maybe it was the excitement of this afternoon.
I then made my way to Nottingham. Although at first I thought I wasn’t going to make it there due to my original train getting delayed. Thankfully I only just managed to get an early one which got me into the city centre safe and sound. I decided to make the most of my visit and bought myself a pulled pork cob and a sweet treat. Yes it may have cost a lot but it’s not very often I get to go to these places so it was alot of fun.
Soon afterwards I went to the theatre royal to watch the pantomime. This was Dick Whittington and I went with one of my friends from the workshop and one of my actors who was in Salad Days and also in my film. This was a show to remember, as I love a good pantomime. The music was brilliant, the jokes were on point and there were a lot of gags which linked to a work beginning with D (which to give you a clue it’s in the name of the show). All in all, it was a good show and I may do a review of the show very soon.
I then headed home. If I’m being honest I wanted to stay in Nottingham longer, but after the incident on the train last time and that I was up since 5am that morning, I didn’t want to take that chance. And I was right to get an early train as other than someone who think either was merry or high, it was quiet. As soon as I got back, after walking my dog I settled into the evening with watching Thursdays addition of Hollyoaks. I’m still gutted that Maxine hasn’t given Beau a chance, as even though she likes Carter (who deep down may like John-Paul but thinks it’s a sin), Beau would be the better match. However I also know that beau is not the type of person to make Maxine like him, so yes he’s gutted he may missed his chance again, but I also know that he’s not selfish.
I then watched the being session of the darts whilst I had a takeaway. I’m amazed by the talent seen at the Alley Palley, including Jamie Hughes and Keane Barry (who had a lovely Irish accent). But now that Keane had Michael Van Gerwen to face it’ll be a tough old match. But I have a feeling on who will win. But let’s face it, if anyone gets to play against Michael van Gerwen it’s going to be an honour anyway.
I then rounded off the evening as always by checking my socials and learning some more Korean, and squeezed in some YouTube clips. But I only did one session of it as I was very tired from being up since 5am. This may meant dropping out of a table, but as long as I kept that streak up then all is not lost.
Sunday: To kick off the day I watched the final episode of Doctors before the Christmas period. This really gave me some perspective, as someone who was their waiter told the doctors about the reality of his job, and that sometimes the smallest things are the most magical. I also hope that Rob gets out of his situation safely after the ending, and that it doesn’t become a long term thing. However with the show ending next year this may be the beginning of the end for Rob and the doctors of Letherbridge as we know it. I then of course went to work. This was surprisingly a better shift as not only did I manage to get all of my jobs done but I managed to draft out my new years sketch. Now all I need to do is film it next week and then it’ll be ready to go for the new year.
To kick off the afternoon I watched the afternoon session of darts whilst I listened to most of last weeks actors workshop recording in prep for Wednesday. The matches in this game were insane. Lourence Ilagan was incredible as even though he didn’t win, his finishes were out of the water. But Joe Cullen had to be my favourite. Not only is his walk on song fantastic but joe he plays is so intriguing. I’m kind of hoping he wins the whole thing. Yes Luke Humphries is the favourite, but you never know what can happen.
After posting my act on this review of Catherine Willis, I then brain dumped stuff for the final week before Christmas and scheduled the next day. This was whilst I listened to the rest of the act on this broadcast on goal setting. And I managed to list some goals for next year, which took a while and I’m wondering what is the most doable, but as long as I get my Tom done first the rest will follow shortly. This was then followed by walking my and a much needed yoga session.
I then kicked off the evening with watching Fridays addition of Hollyoaks. I couldn’t believe that after the last episode Carter is still hiding from who he really is. Yes maybe he is genuinely scared to come out, but the way he thinks and using Maxine just to hide it is not the way forward. I also wonder what peri wants with Raynes old phone. As even though I’ve seen in an article where she confesses everything, I wonder what she has confessed to. I was going to spend my evening watching the darts, but it wasn’t the matches I want, so I decided to watch the first episode of Changing Ends. I’m not too sure what to make of it at first, as it was only 30 minutes long, but I’m willing to give this series a go as it’s about the life of a young Alan Carr.
I then did a mixture of thing before the match between Fallon Sherrock and Jermaine Wattimena. These included checking my socials, setting up my Christmas cards to write tomorrow and learning abit of Korean (where I finished my daily goals later on). The match itself was intense. I was disappointed with the results, as without giving anything away, I had my favourite to get through. But then again anything can happen in the world of darts. But there are other games to look forward to for the rest of this month, like the game with Martin Schindler (who I won't like is kind of cute). I'm looking forward to this game, so in some ways I'm glad my favourite didn't win as I would be stuck between the two. And just in time for me to binge on.
What have I learnt this week? Whilst this is the month to get ahead of everyone else by January (which I feel I have done), it’s also important to reflect on how far you’ve come and be proud of who you are. Yes I’m not where I need to be at the moment, but as long as I rinse and repeat everything, I can’t go wrong.
See you in the new year. But keep a look out as during the holidays I’ll be posting some reviews of more tv shows for you to add to your playlist in the new year, along with films I’ve seen, shows I've seen and how to make the holidays comfortable for those who have got/have been affected by autism and what you can do to help.
Until next year…
This is the Autistic Actress Signing off :)
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