Hello Everyone!
Bear with me while I figure out exactly what this blog will be. It may be a hodge podge of ideas because that seems to be my make up. But, either way,the point is to be able to reach out to each other. So, here we go.
I continue to be blown away by the amount of love, passion and compassion that flows through my email. I've always appreciated the support of you fans but never more than I have in the past few months. The news that GL was canceled was shocking and devastating. Even when you know a show's struggling, you hope for the best. And, I believe, we were on our way to some interesting story.
Regarding the Otalia story, I've heard from fans from all over the world and varying belief systems, who've said their hearts and minds have opened to new or different ideas. And, recognize the common thread amongst all of us, love. Asking interesting questions: Where do we find hope? What is real love? What does it look like? What is a family? What is happiness? True joy? It's been inspirational for me to hear such great words.
We at GL have been given plenty of pats on the back over the years, but the truth is it's we who applaud you. For your dedication and on-going support. And for just being down-right great!
I have LOVED playing Olivia! Yes, she can be a bit whacked but I always knew there was a blooming heart underneath it all. I consider the Otalia story to be one of my proudest accomplishments. If, in any way, I've touched a life, a thought, or at least served as some kind of distraction for those who need to look away for a moment from a hardship they're dealing with, I am grateful. It truly has been my privilege.
For those of you who have never written a fan letter but have started, THANK YOU! For you who have and continue, THANK YOU! Your voices are powerful. They've certainly touched me.
I will continue to love and support Guiding Light, no matter where it goes!
Until next time...
Crystal
Bear with me while I figure out exactly what this blog will be. It may be a hodge podge of ideas because that seems to be my make up. But, either way,the point is to be able to reach out to each other. So, here we go.
I continue to be blown away by the amount of love, passion and compassion that flows through my email. I've always appreciated the support of you fans but never more than I have in the past few months. The news that GL was canceled was shocking and devastating. Even when you know a show's struggling, you hope for the best. And, I believe, we were on our way to some interesting story.
Regarding the Otalia story, I've heard from fans from all over the world and varying belief systems, who've said their hearts and minds have opened to new or different ideas. And, recognize the common thread amongst all of us, love. Asking interesting questions: Where do we find hope? What is real love? What does it look like? What is a family? What is happiness? True joy? It's been inspirational for me to hear such great words.
We at GL have been given plenty of pats on the back over the years, but the truth is it's we who applaud you. For your dedication and on-going support. And for just being down-right great!
I have LOVED playing Olivia! Yes, she can be a bit whacked but I always knew there was a blooming heart underneath it all. I consider the Otalia story to be one of my proudest accomplishments. If, in any way, I've touched a life, a thought, or at least served as some kind of distraction for those who need to look away for a moment from a hardship they're dealing with, I am grateful. It truly has been my privilege.
For those of you who have never written a fan letter but have started, THANK YOU! For you who have and continue, THANK YOU! Your voices are powerful. They've certainly touched me.
I will continue to love and support Guiding Light, no matter where it goes!
Until next time...
Crystal
Denise writes:
“…I hope you get this e-mail. I am 44 years old and I have followed your career thru the years…..I just wish I could be like you. I am 44 years but overweight a lot. Can you please give me some tips on looking as good as you do? I stopped smoking and it was hell. I lost my brother, he was 38 and my best friend Linda to colon cancer and my beloved cat Brittany who was 16 years old. I wish I could have kids, but my husband of 19 years and I cannot have children. Love the storyline and I hope they keep Olivia and Natalia together….”
Hi Denise,
Wow! It sounds like you've suffered a lot of loss. My heart goes out to you. I do have to congratulate you on giving up the cigs. Extremely hard to do, but absolutely the best thing for you.
I'm so glad you're enjoying the story. I'm having a great time with Jessie. Very proud of GL. As far as health tips go (prefer using the word "health" than "beauty"), I'll let you in on a little secret.
I was an overweight kid. What can I say? A Velveeta and mayo sandwich made me happy. I got tired of kids teasing me so I started running ( honestly, it's was a notch above a fast walk), but it made a difference. I slimmed down and gained a little confidence. Of course, the kids who teased me still found reason to tease me, but at least I felt better about myself.
As I've gotten "not any younger", I still run, play with my kids, whatever keeps me active. I've also learned to eat well: lean meats, veggies, fish and the occasional margarita! (I believe that falls into the citrus category). And, a litte Velveeta mac and cheese every once in a while won't hurt. God, I hate total deprivation!
Trust me, it's a daily battle. If I can do it, you can. You've weathered a great storm, You're strong. Do something wonderful for yourself.
Melissa writes:
“…I have been a fan since I saw you on Days of Our Lives. I read something recently that you said and I wanted to thank you. You said that for the longest time you didn’t think you had talent to do anything and that you didn’t think you were pretty. I have felt this my entire life, and seeing where you are today gives me hope that maybe my dreams will come true too. I have wanted to be an actress for a long time, but never thought I had the talent so I never pursued it………Here’s to hoping! Thank you for helping me and many other young girls who were insecure and overweight as children realize our dreams. You are truly an inspiration. Thank you from the bottom of my heart….”
Hi Melissa,
Thanks for your letter. I'm happy you want to pursue you dream! Why not? I firmly believe in the old saying, which goes something like this since I can't remember exactly how it goes…it's those people who stay determined and never give up that succeed. All you need is a passion. Sounds like you do! I think being an actor is a privilege. I still find myself looking around the set thinking, "I can't believe I get paid to have this much fun!".
Certainly, when I was on DAYS, I didn't have the fortitude or the confidence to appreciate that. My friends from Tennessee used to say to me, "Crystal, you're just an amoeba of a person right now. Now real shape to ya.". After I finished cursing her under my breath, I got what she was saying. I just didn't know who I was yet and that scared me. Thankfully, sometimes with age comes stretch-marks...uh, and wisdom. My acting coach the great Sanford Meisner, once said to my class, "It takes twenty years to become a good actor.". Back then it was devastating. Now, it makes sense.
You have to grow into yourself, own your skin and then you have it to offer. Break a leg, Melissa!
Cassie writes:
“…I absolutely love your work. You are the reason I tune into GL. I wonder if you could shed some light on a situation I have a problem with. I know you are the mother of two beautiful boys. I am the mother of a beautiful little boy named Blake. He will be two on May 11, 2009. I feel my partner Gayle and I are good mothers, but there is something I have a problem with that I thought maybe you could help me with. Our son has a terrible temper when he is told no or when something is not the way he thinks it should be. I was wondering if you have ever had this problem with either of your sons and of you have how did you handle it or get through it?….”
Hi Cassie,
Oh, yes I understand! Being a mother really is the hardest job out there. By the way, love the b-day. My eldest, Jake, is May 11 too. He'll be nine. And I don't mean to be a downer, but he still has bad reactions when he hears the word "no". But, at two, it's a little more intense, eh? First, know that he sounds perfectly normal for a two year old. It's that time of exerting one's independence while at the same time trying to stay close to mommy. It was about Blake's age that I remember feeling like I should save for Jake's therapy fund because I was either going to be the best good-enough mom out there or I was going to seriously screw him up! We decided to go the "time-out" route. It was a struggle. Takes great patience on the parent’s part. There are books on this method, btw.
Tell him what isn't acceptable and he'll be getting a time out for two minutes (one minute for each year of age) if he doesn’t stop the behavior. Raise one finger and say "one", two fingers and say "two", three fingers and say "three". Hopefully, he will have stopped but you're probably not going to be so lucky in the beginning. If he goes past three, he in a time out. No toys or tv. And, here's the really hard part, you have to keep
all emotion out of it. Oh, I just wanted to die! But, ya know, after awhile all I had to do was raise a finger! Hope that helps, but I'm sure you and Gayle will figure it out. It's all about what's best for him
P.S. I also found that a glass of wine (for mommies!) helps!
Susanne writes:
“….I met your father when he worked for us. He talked about you all the time, it was right around the time you got married and started having kids. I am writing because I saw you on Guiding Light and I thought about your father and I just wanted to say hi! I hope everyone is well. You Dad is a very nice guy…….”
Hi Susanne,
I'm so glad you got to meet my Dad. And thanks for sharing that. I think my Pop is a special guy and will certainly pass along your Hello! All the best to you!
Ashley writes:
“…The Otalia storyline has opened a lot of closed doors for people….not many storylines can open up with this type of dialogue regardless of the storyline. The way this story has been written is so true to life and people have opened up about their personal struggles because of the visibility….people crave visibility and representation. When you see yourself onscreen it tugs at your heart, and that is just what Guiding Light has done. I appreciate that. I completely relate to the character of “Olivia”…she’s strong and she knows what she wants and knows how to get it…but then someone steps into your life and turns the person you thought you were for a real trip. This story is about love. This story is about family. This speaks at all the feelings that I have gone through. This story is brilliantly written. This story deserves to continue on……”
Hi Ashley,
One of the things I've enjoyed most about this storyline is hearing about the journeys of others like you. It's a lucky thing for an actor to tell a story that touches people on a personal level.
We're here to entertain, but every now and then we get to tell a story that has an impact. I've heard from so many people who've told me about similar struggles. First of all, THANK YOU!
It means so much to me that you're willing to share your stories with me. I've wept at some of the letters I've received. I've shared them with my EP and HW. I feel hopeful that with a story like the Otalia story we can open a few minds and hearts to the very basic idea that love is universal! Label-less Kind! Decent! Let's move it forward.
Julie writes:
“….I’m writing to you today to thank you for your outstanding work on Guiding Light as Olivia Spencer……I’ve only started watching recently, but have already caught up on the history between Olivia and Natalia…..Ms. Chappell, thank you so much for embracing this storyline. It’s plainly evident that you are playing Olivia Spencer for all she’s worth, that you are giving this storyline your all, controversy or no, same-sex romance or no. It’s fairly obvious to actual gay people when a straight actor is holding back, but you are truly acting in a believable fashion and combined with the chemistry you have with Ms. Leccia, the two of you make the feelings between your characters almost palpable…..It’s a pleasure to want you on Guiding Light as it was on One Life To Live….”
Hi Julie,
Boy, you're just throwin' the love my way, aren’t you? Well, thanks Julie! I've had a lot of fun in the past ten years on GL.. Two on OLTL. And three on DAYS. Let's see, that would make me...forever 35! Whew! (Always trying to fit into a better demographic, ya know?)
Seriously, it's been a blast and partly because of fans like you. I can't begin to tell you how fortunate I feel. I hope to keep Olivia alive as long as I can. She's been an interesting and fun character to play. Thanks so much for taking the time to send love!
David writes:
“…How does one begin to thank you and goodbye to the cast and crew of Guiding Light? There are so many families that bonded over this show and this was due to the many talents in front of and behind the cameras…..You should all hold your heads high because you all made this world a better place by your talents. An American institution has been shattered today and I want to let you know how much you have touched my life. Your fans will fight to see this show continue and we support any endeavors the future brings to all. …..All that we send into the lives of others comes back into our own. This outpouring of love and support was given to us and now return to you…”
Hi David,
All that we send into the lives of others comes back into our own--always loved that, David. Guiding Light is an American institution and will live on somehow.
I know all of us at GL feel very proud of our show. We've worked very hard under difficult circumstances and we're better for it. GL may look a little different than it used to, but we've found the heart of it again and it's beating strong! Thanks for your support and encouragement! Know that it's greatly appreciated. Keep the Light Shining!
Yvonne writes:
“….I just read about the proposed cancellation of Guiding Light. I’m a 32 year-old German. I never heard about GL before the Otalia clips on YouTube got my attention in December last year. Since then I am totally addicted to this storyline…..I just want to let you know that there are many European viewers who are addicted to GL and would love to watch the soap on the internet or on a European tele-station…”
Hi Yvonne,
I have LOVED hearing from fans all over the world! Must say I'm lovin' YOUTUBE for bringing us all together. And I'm sure we would love to make this show in Europe!
I will be forever grateful for being one half of the Otalia pairing. First of all, I have a terrific leading lady in Jessica Leccia. But the global connection to this story and
these characters has been a joy! I hope we can continue to tell this story in some capacity. My very best to Team Germany!
“…I hope you get this e-mail. I am 44 years old and I have followed your career thru the years…..I just wish I could be like you. I am 44 years but overweight a lot. Can you please give me some tips on looking as good as you do? I stopped smoking and it was hell. I lost my brother, he was 38 and my best friend Linda to colon cancer and my beloved cat Brittany who was 16 years old. I wish I could have kids, but my husband of 19 years and I cannot have children. Love the storyline and I hope they keep Olivia and Natalia together….”
Hi Denise,
Wow! It sounds like you've suffered a lot of loss. My heart goes out to you. I do have to congratulate you on giving up the cigs. Extremely hard to do, but absolutely the best thing for you.
I'm so glad you're enjoying the story. I'm having a great time with Jessie. Very proud of GL. As far as health tips go (prefer using the word "health" than "beauty"), I'll let you in on a little secret.
I was an overweight kid. What can I say? A Velveeta and mayo sandwich made me happy. I got tired of kids teasing me so I started running ( honestly, it's was a notch above a fast walk), but it made a difference. I slimmed down and gained a little confidence. Of course, the kids who teased me still found reason to tease me, but at least I felt better about myself.
As I've gotten "not any younger", I still run, play with my kids, whatever keeps me active. I've also learned to eat well: lean meats, veggies, fish and the occasional margarita! (I believe that falls into the citrus category). And, a litte Velveeta mac and cheese every once in a while won't hurt. God, I hate total deprivation!
Trust me, it's a daily battle. If I can do it, you can. You've weathered a great storm, You're strong. Do something wonderful for yourself.
Melissa writes:
“…I have been a fan since I saw you on Days of Our Lives. I read something recently that you said and I wanted to thank you. You said that for the longest time you didn’t think you had talent to do anything and that you didn’t think you were pretty. I have felt this my entire life, and seeing where you are today gives me hope that maybe my dreams will come true too. I have wanted to be an actress for a long time, but never thought I had the talent so I never pursued it………Here’s to hoping! Thank you for helping me and many other young girls who were insecure and overweight as children realize our dreams. You are truly an inspiration. Thank you from the bottom of my heart….”
Hi Melissa,
Thanks for your letter. I'm happy you want to pursue you dream! Why not? I firmly believe in the old saying, which goes something like this since I can't remember exactly how it goes…it's those people who stay determined and never give up that succeed. All you need is a passion. Sounds like you do! I think being an actor is a privilege. I still find myself looking around the set thinking, "I can't believe I get paid to have this much fun!".
Certainly, when I was on DAYS, I didn't have the fortitude or the confidence to appreciate that. My friends from Tennessee used to say to me, "Crystal, you're just an amoeba of a person right now. Now real shape to ya.". After I finished cursing her under my breath, I got what she was saying. I just didn't know who I was yet and that scared me. Thankfully, sometimes with age comes stretch-marks...uh, and wisdom. My acting coach the great Sanford Meisner, once said to my class, "It takes twenty years to become a good actor.". Back then it was devastating. Now, it makes sense.
You have to grow into yourself, own your skin and then you have it to offer. Break a leg, Melissa!
Cassie writes:
“…I absolutely love your work. You are the reason I tune into GL. I wonder if you could shed some light on a situation I have a problem with. I know you are the mother of two beautiful boys. I am the mother of a beautiful little boy named Blake. He will be two on May 11, 2009. I feel my partner Gayle and I are good mothers, but there is something I have a problem with that I thought maybe you could help me with. Our son has a terrible temper when he is told no or when something is not the way he thinks it should be. I was wondering if you have ever had this problem with either of your sons and of you have how did you handle it or get through it?….”
Hi Cassie,
Oh, yes I understand! Being a mother really is the hardest job out there. By the way, love the b-day. My eldest, Jake, is May 11 too. He'll be nine. And I don't mean to be a downer, but he still has bad reactions when he hears the word "no". But, at two, it's a little more intense, eh? First, know that he sounds perfectly normal for a two year old. It's that time of exerting one's independence while at the same time trying to stay close to mommy. It was about Blake's age that I remember feeling like I should save for Jake's therapy fund because I was either going to be the best good-enough mom out there or I was going to seriously screw him up! We decided to go the "time-out" route. It was a struggle. Takes great patience on the parent’s part. There are books on this method, btw.
Tell him what isn't acceptable and he'll be getting a time out for two minutes (one minute for each year of age) if he doesn’t stop the behavior. Raise one finger and say "one", two fingers and say "two", three fingers and say "three". Hopefully, he will have stopped but you're probably not going to be so lucky in the beginning. If he goes past three, he in a time out. No toys or tv. And, here's the really hard part, you have to keep
all emotion out of it. Oh, I just wanted to die! But, ya know, after awhile all I had to do was raise a finger! Hope that helps, but I'm sure you and Gayle will figure it out. It's all about what's best for him
P.S. I also found that a glass of wine (for mommies!) helps!
Susanne writes:
“….I met your father when he worked for us. He talked about you all the time, it was right around the time you got married and started having kids. I am writing because I saw you on Guiding Light and I thought about your father and I just wanted to say hi! I hope everyone is well. You Dad is a very nice guy…….”
Hi Susanne,
I'm so glad you got to meet my Dad. And thanks for sharing that. I think my Pop is a special guy and will certainly pass along your Hello! All the best to you!
Ashley writes:
“…The Otalia storyline has opened a lot of closed doors for people….not many storylines can open up with this type of dialogue regardless of the storyline. The way this story has been written is so true to life and people have opened up about their personal struggles because of the visibility….people crave visibility and representation. When you see yourself onscreen it tugs at your heart, and that is just what Guiding Light has done. I appreciate that. I completely relate to the character of “Olivia”…she’s strong and she knows what she wants and knows how to get it…but then someone steps into your life and turns the person you thought you were for a real trip. This story is about love. This story is about family. This speaks at all the feelings that I have gone through. This story is brilliantly written. This story deserves to continue on……”
Hi Ashley,
One of the things I've enjoyed most about this storyline is hearing about the journeys of others like you. It's a lucky thing for an actor to tell a story that touches people on a personal level.
We're here to entertain, but every now and then we get to tell a story that has an impact. I've heard from so many people who've told me about similar struggles. First of all, THANK YOU!
It means so much to me that you're willing to share your stories with me. I've wept at some of the letters I've received. I've shared them with my EP and HW. I feel hopeful that with a story like the Otalia story we can open a few minds and hearts to the very basic idea that love is universal! Label-less Kind! Decent! Let's move it forward.
Julie writes:
“….I’m writing to you today to thank you for your outstanding work on Guiding Light as Olivia Spencer……I’ve only started watching recently, but have already caught up on the history between Olivia and Natalia…..Ms. Chappell, thank you so much for embracing this storyline. It’s plainly evident that you are playing Olivia Spencer for all she’s worth, that you are giving this storyline your all, controversy or no, same-sex romance or no. It’s fairly obvious to actual gay people when a straight actor is holding back, but you are truly acting in a believable fashion and combined with the chemistry you have with Ms. Leccia, the two of you make the feelings between your characters almost palpable…..It’s a pleasure to want you on Guiding Light as it was on One Life To Live….”
Hi Julie,
Boy, you're just throwin' the love my way, aren’t you? Well, thanks Julie! I've had a lot of fun in the past ten years on GL.. Two on OLTL. And three on DAYS. Let's see, that would make me...forever 35! Whew! (Always trying to fit into a better demographic, ya know?)
Seriously, it's been a blast and partly because of fans like you. I can't begin to tell you how fortunate I feel. I hope to keep Olivia alive as long as I can. She's been an interesting and fun character to play. Thanks so much for taking the time to send love!
David writes:
“…How does one begin to thank you and goodbye to the cast and crew of Guiding Light? There are so many families that bonded over this show and this was due to the many talents in front of and behind the cameras…..You should all hold your heads high because you all made this world a better place by your talents. An American institution has been shattered today and I want to let you know how much you have touched my life. Your fans will fight to see this show continue and we support any endeavors the future brings to all. …..All that we send into the lives of others comes back into our own. This outpouring of love and support was given to us and now return to you…”
Hi David,
All that we send into the lives of others comes back into our own--always loved that, David. Guiding Light is an American institution and will live on somehow.
I know all of us at GL feel very proud of our show. We've worked very hard under difficult circumstances and we're better for it. GL may look a little different than it used to, but we've found the heart of it again and it's beating strong! Thanks for your support and encouragement! Know that it's greatly appreciated. Keep the Light Shining!
Yvonne writes:
“….I just read about the proposed cancellation of Guiding Light. I’m a 32 year-old German. I never heard about GL before the Otalia clips on YouTube got my attention in December last year. Since then I am totally addicted to this storyline…..I just want to let you know that there are many European viewers who are addicted to GL and would love to watch the soap on the internet or on a European tele-station…”
Hi Yvonne,
I have LOVED hearing from fans all over the world! Must say I'm lovin' YOUTUBE for bringing us all together. And I'm sure we would love to make this show in Europe!
I will be forever grateful for being one half of the Otalia pairing. First of all, I have a terrific leading lady in Jessica Leccia. But the global connection to this story and
these characters has been a joy! I hope we can continue to tell this story in some capacity. My very best to Team Germany!
19/11: Hey! I finally made it!
Well, it's been insanely busy. Can't believe it's the end of November. I'm working alot at GL. Hopefully, you'll inlike what we're doing. By the way, I know I set out to create a blog involving motherhood only, but now I realize a part of my motherhood stuff is my work. So, feel free to talk about anything you'd like.
My boys are amazing. Jake is loving second grade. He's already received 2 awards, Excellent Progress in School. It's my right to brag. Dylan has transformed from a more conservative thinking type to talking up a storm. He's doing great.
I'm going to wait a bit for some story to air before I say too much about it.
Hope you have a great Thanksgiving!
Love,
Crystal
P.S. Bare with me, I'm computer challenged and at times life challenged.
My boys are amazing. Jake is loving second grade. He's already received 2 awards, Excellent Progress in School. It's my right to brag. Dylan has transformed from a more conservative thinking type to talking up a storm. He's doing great.
I'm going to wait a bit for some story to air before I say too much about it.
Hope you have a great Thanksgiving!
Love,
Crystal
P.S. Bare with me, I'm computer challenged and at times life challenged.
16/05: Posting Comments
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All comments are monitored and we ask that you please respect and preserve the integrity of this blog by keeping your comments clean, on topic and appropriate for all ages. Members who continually post inappropriate comments will have their account suspended.
If you have any questions or require assistance in using this blog, please contact Jennifer@Crystal-Chappell.com.