So. Apparently, it takes at least a month and a half living in a hotel in Times Square in NYC until you come up with a contract for an entire union of actors. In some ways it is like being a juror that can't talk to anyone and has to be cautious about anything you say outside the courtroom. Even though both sides were in a News Black Out, that didn't stop certain leaks from happening on both sides. The important thing after all was said and done and signed, is that a rare form of solidarity, something I have not seen in many years as a union actor, prevailed between AFTRA & SAG. It is truly the template to carry forward.

Aside from our negotiations, there was down time when we had the opportunity to go out and explore New York. My thrill came first from seeing the half of my family that I ADORE (I wished my man was here to meet them... I missed you somethin' awful Shmook:(). My male & female first cousins are both teachers, and my male cousin and his uber cool wife have a little boy and girl (my second cousins who I consider more like my niece & nephew) who are absolutely perfect. Yes, I am biased- but since I live in LA LA Land and used to cast kids as well as act with other kids myself... I KNOW perfect kids when I meet them.

Another perfect little cousin is on the way too. She is quite a beautiful little girl from far off & my female cousin will be a fabulous mother. She's amazing with children and is a 2nd grade teacher in the Queen's School system & I believe she will encourage self- confidence and self esteem in her new little princess in the healthiest of ways and especially in teaching her what strength & independence truly means.

My Aunt rocks, My cousins (all 6 of them) rock. I am very blessed. I hope I do land a job in NYC because I would really love to be there more often as the kids get older. Particularly as my cousin goes through the new experience of motherhood. So amazing and beautiful.