One Final Act of Kindness

This is a very personal post.
I'm sorry I have not been updated my blog in the last few weeks.
As many of you have heard, on Saturday, May 9th, around noon, my father Daniel Charles Hennessey passed away. He died of sudden cardiac death while driving to dialysis on a beautiful day just 1/2 a mile from home. Though he had been very sick over the last 10 years, it was very sudden and unexpected, and shocking to us all. But in the wake of his death, I, and my family, have come to see so much beauty and a multitude of blessings that we would have never ever expected to accompany such a tragedy.

Though not easy, there was a lot of wonderful moments we experienced that following week as we prepared for his funeral. On Thursday, May 14th at 11am, we sang his favorite hims, recounted the funny, sometimes wonderfully irreverant stories of his youth, read his profound poetry, and shared the grief over the moments we would not get to share with him. But through it all, it was evident that he was not far away. I know he is in a better place. I am certain that I will see him again.


I want to share with you a very personal excerpt from a journal entry I wrote shortly after his funeral:

I believe in Christ...
I know it, though it may not always be in the forefront of my mind. It becomes an involuntary part of my daily life like breathing or blinking. But there are distinct and profound moments in my life that I have been so overwhelmed by this knowledge that I can never deny it...
One moment was my first time at the temple when recieving my own endowment,
and the feeling I felt as I entered the celestial room.
Another was when i was a teenager, reading the scriptures, worried for the well-being of my sister Mary who just that night told me that she could never be forgiven for her sins... I read King Benjamin's words and knew with such certainty that not only would she be forgiven, but that she would be made totally whole and new...
And she has.
Just a week ago, I experienced it again at my fathers funeral. I was emotional throughout the service, cherishing his humor, his love and spirit, but at the close we sang one of dad's favorite hymns...
"I Know That My Redeemer Lives."
I could hardly move my mouth as I was flooded with the greatest awakening of knowing that I (me!) i truly know that MY redeemer lives. That is my testimony. And what an incredible gift for my earthly father to give me. . . a final reminder that the plan of salvation is real, that we will be together again with our Heavenly Father.
I am so grateful for those moments, and so, as I continue breathing and blinking, I will also be believing.
Thank you, Daddy.


I am so lucky to have had such an incredible father, who I know was proud of me. I am so blessed to have had so much kindness shown to me and my family as we dealt with his loss. To those people I wish to express my utmost gratitude! And as I was not able to finish my own Act of Kindness Challenge, I dedicate the kindness that was shown to my family as the final gift, and to bring that project to a close. I hope to show kindness to those around me every day of my life, and I aspire to bring the warmth and life to a room that my father always did. I will love him and miss him til the end of my days, and I look forward to being with him again.
Families can be together forever.

A View from the Bridge. . . the Brooklyn Bridge

Most of you already know this, but I am on vacation in the Seattle area, spending a extra long (and long over due) break with my fabulous family! But, in the middle of this 7 week trip, I went back to New York to sing in a charity event and shoot a few clients that I had already booked. I ended up overlapping with my friend Debbie's visit to the city. So, we met up one day and took a walk to the Brooklyn Bridge to get some shots. Unfortunately, the rain and clouds blocked most of the light and limited our shots. But I was able to squeeze a few in before we headed for Dumbo and a lovely little dinner! Thanks Debbie for an awesome night, and I look forward to your next trip to New York!




How Vintage does Debbie look, trying to stay warm with her pashmina?






This is a terrible shot, but the only one I got of the two of us!

The WICKED Truth: When good people do bad things!

Coming up very soon, I will perform two shows in promotion of the book:
The WICKED Truth,
When good people do bad things
by Suzanne Ross

We have been gearing up to do these events for nearly 6 months now, and I am so delighted to be heading out to the midwest on this mini-book tour!

The two dates are :
Friday, May 15th, 7pm
The Cooking Studio at Whole Foods Market
Metcalf, 7401 W. 91st Street, Overland Park, KS 66212

Saturday, May 16th, 2-4pm
Barnes and Noble Booksellers,
3333 Oakview Drive, Omaha, NE 68144
phone: 402.691.4557.


It will be just me on the 15th, and the author, Suzanne Ross, will join me for the event on the 16th. She has written an incredible book that really helps to understand the deeper themes of the musical WICKED, and has given me an even deeper appreciation for it's parallel's to my own life! I will be performing several songs from WICKED as well as discussing the book and my experiences with the show.

If you are anywhere near these locations, I'd love for you to come out. There is no charge, but seating is limited so you should arrive early. The book will be available for purchase there, and Suzanne and I will be available for autographs following the event. I look forward to seeing you there!
For more information check out:
www.TheWickedTruth.com

Dance En Masse

There have been a few of these types of things happening out there in the world. . . large groups of dancers all moving together in a public location surprising unsuspecting pedestrians. I just came across this one in a Belgium train station, of people dancing to one of my favorite movie musicals of all time. . . The Sound of Music.
This makes me so happy!
Take a look and have a smile!

I'm Kind of A Big Deal. . . in Japan

So, remember how I told all ya'll about a show I put together in New York. Well, I never got around to posting the videos. . . til now.

So, for your enjoyment, here are a few of my faves.
It was such an amazing time, and I am so grateful to my talented sista's for doing this with me!
(Christine Dwyer, Lara Janine & my ru-bu-fu Jen Talton)
And none of this would have happened without the incomparable Katie Thompson, who astonishes me every day (did I mention last week she performed at the White House for the First Lady and the New Cabinet? Yeah, I know her!)
Oh, and of course I must shout out to Barbara Anselmi who stepped in to play for half our show the night before the concert!!! Thank you Thank you!
So, without further adieu. . .

Our opening Number, was an idea in my head that was genius-ly brought to life by Katie and the girls. . .


Here's my emotional moment. . . a pop cover written by Marie Digby, it's "Miss Invisible:


Lara and I both played Elphaba in Wicked in Japan. So, we decided to battle it out to discover who is "The Best Elphaba Ever."


We decided to pay tribute to the iconic and life altering music of En Vogue. . . of course in our signature style!

I wasn't going to post this because I'm a perfectionist, but this one's for Erin. It's a little song for my family's new settlement in the Pacific Northwest. I may not drink it, but it sure is funny.
Here's Starbucks, by Michael Mahler:

Closing out the show, we had to give it up for our genius musical director KT!
So, here with one of her original songs is "I Will. . . (Kick Your A**)"
Disclaimer: This song has minor profanities that may not be suitable for all audiences. . . ie to my nieces and nephews, stop watching now ;)

Act of Kindness #25

Sometimes teaching a lesson in church can be very difficult. It can be overwhelming and humbling. So, yesterday at church, I helped the teacher in every way I could. I spoke up, I helped her write on the board, led a discussion group and prayed for her. I hope it helped.

Next To Normal

Yesterday was quite possibly my favorite half day in New York ever! It was the most beautiful weather, I saw the most incredible show, and hung with one of my favorite peeps. Too bad I only had half a day!

I got up early with my former cruise ship roomie and stunning dancer, Ann Skufca, to get General Rush tickets to the hottest new Broadway musical "Next To Normal." And we got the last two!!! This is a brilliantly original musical about a family struggling to keep it together while the mother battles with bi-polar disorder. A bit of a rock-operetta, the music is captivating, and the performances just mind-altering! We're talking some serious Tony's people!
Now, I must disclose that this is not a family friendly show, and it is an extremely heavy and dark musical, but the beauty that it embraces is just stunning. I laughed for sure. I cried about 7 times. I left feeling so inspired and moved and thoughtful.

That is the beauty of art, to move you like that! And to combine that with the most beautiful sunny blue skies, 80 degree weather, Red Mango fro-yo and good company, and you got a little piece of heaven right there!

Act of Kindness #24

It has become a bit of a new tradition for me. As I leave New York City from JFK International Airport, I give away whatever leftover subway passes I have. Yesterday as I passed through the gate for the AirTrain I handed my remaining weekly unlimited ride pass to one of the people heading into the city. It often confuses people, and since it is New York, you can see them trying to figure out if it's a scam. But I just tell them how much is left, tell them to enjoy, and head on my way. It's a good way to start out a trip.

Act of Kindness #23

Being handicapped in New York City means that you are uh-ma-zing! In such a challenging city for even an able-bodied person, I am always blown away when I see someone with physical limitations navigating these mean streets!
Now, everyone knows that that fastest way to get around in New York is the Subways, and though there are a few stations that are handicap accessible, someone who is handicapped still must rely on the kindness of others to use them.
On Friday, I almost went on my way, before I realized this. A woman in a wheelchair was waiting outside of the turnstiles for the emergency exit to be opened. (It must either be opened from the inside or buzzed open by the station attendant. But he was pre-occupied. . . and even then, it is very difficult for a wheelchair bound person to pull open the heavy iron doors. ) I noticed in time, went back and held open the door. The rockstar went by in her wheelchair and I just admired. I hope if I am ever challenged physically that I will meet the challenge head on like her!

Act of Kindness #22

If you've ever walked anywhere in New York, you know that you cannot take a step without being asked for spare change. I often find myself in such a hurry, and so accustomed to hearing these pleads, that the voices become background noise as I scurry down the streets. Well, I decided to pay attention. I committed to giving change to anyone who asked me for it until I ran out. I was able to give to four different people, each time looking them in the eye. They seemed very grateful for change that I give little thought to, and would have just thrown in a jar when I got home.

Act of Kindness # 21

Last night I swung by the birthday party of my brilliant genius composer friend Jon (www.jonathan-reid-gealt.com/) As I left, I was walking toward 42nd to catch my train uptown, and a woman in front of me dropped her lipgloss as she ran for the cab. She had no clue she had dropped it, and I wasn't sure if I could get it to her in time, but I picked it up and ran it back to her.
Now go check out Jon's music. . . my favorite it "Quiet" sung here by my genius fellow Elphie Cassie McIvor, and here by another genius friend, also from Wicked, Natalie Weiss. Enjoy!

Act of Kindness # 20

I discovered a new website for niceness, and they have some very innovative ideas for doing nice things! It's called Do One Nice Thing.
They introduced me to this very very simple way to spread some good.

FreeRice is a website where you play vocabulary games, and for every question you get right, the sponsers (who have little ads at the bottom) will donate 10 grains of rice to the UN World Food Program to help end world hunger. Not too difficult, right.

Join me and let's feed some people around the world!

Act of Kindness # 19

Tonight I performed in a charity event at Don't Tell Mama's in NYC for Project Open called "May The Schwartz Be With You!" It was an amazing event, and I had so much fun hanging with Broadway legends who I number as friends!

As my act of kindness, I held the door open for the (slightly rude) waitress every time she was walking by, and especially when she was carrying buckets of ice.

I also got to take pictures with some precious fans (a ten year old girl totally made my night when she came to give me a hug!)

And I guess doing a charity event in the first place is an act of kindness on it's own.

I'm feeling very blessed.
Pictures from tonight soon to come (possibly with a little video!)

Act of Kindness # 18

Today is my birthday! I am 28 years old. Whew! Time flies when you are having fun!

Thank you to everyone who has sent me videos, sung me songs, sent me messages and spread some serious kindness in my life today!!
I am so grateful!

I arrived in New York pretty early this morning, and as I made my way around the city with my luggage in tow. . . I had to go straight from the airport to rehearsal.

While waiting for the subway, a woman seemed to be confused. I asked her if she needed help, and was able to give her good directions to get on her way.

And then I was on my way.

Act of Kindness # 17

As I headed through the airport last night, I noticed a very long line at Security. As I know this is everyone's favorite part of traveling, I decided that this would be the perfect place to spread some kindness. As I went through security, I allowed 2 people to go in front of me. I noticed right afterward that the same generosity was being circulated throughout the room. Unlike usual, everyone was patient, no one was complaining, and I saw a guy helping the person behind him with their bag. Love it.

Rachel Smith

I met Rachel at my church in Inwood just about 2 years ago. Before I actual met her, I was introduced to her voice. All you have to do is sit in the congregation and listen to hear her big beautiful voice ringing loudy through the chapel! A graduate from NYU, she is a up and coming Broadway star! A couple weeks ago, she came by my apartment to get some new headshots, and fun shots too. Rachel has to be the most adventurous person I have ever shot with, even climbing into a construction dumpster outside my apartment to get the raddest shot! Take a look at our incredible shoot!











Okay, can we talk about how amazing this graffiti is . . . on the side of my apartment!

Check out Rach's broke down doll shot. . . Tyra would be so proud!

Prepare yourself. . . . This is the one! She climbed into a dumpster to get this shot!
She also had a herd of construction workers whistling and watching the whole time!
GET IT!

Act of Kindness # 16

When I was about 18 years old, I got a job as a server at Applebee's. That lasted all of 2 days, cause I was a spoiled fine dining type of girl. But over the years, I've come back around to the novelty and the neighborhood style of this prolific eatery. In the last few years, it's become a tradition for my mom, two sisters and me to have a girls' night out at Applebee's when I come to town. It's central, it's cheap, and let's be honest. . . it's delicious!
It was only in these last few years that I discovered my Grandpa Bob creates the recipes for the desserts at Applebee's (and Costco, etc.) As the owner of Real Food Baking Company, his delectable desserts are licensed out to large corporations across the country! So, last month, he not only sent me a couple desserts in the mail to try out, but a gift card to Applebee's to try them out in person!
Combining my favorite things, tonight Girls' night met Grandpa Bob's desserts~
We gorged on Chocolate Chip Cookie Sundae, Maple Butter Blondie, and Triple Chocolate Meltdown (the clearcut winner as we fought over the last bite!)
At the end of it all, we had $10 left on the gift card. So for tonight Act of Kindness, we gave the card (wrapped in a little note) to our waitress, asking her to give it to someone who might need or enjoy it. She responded that she had the perfect person in mind for it!

Here's just one picture to make you salivate!

Act of Kindness # 15

Are you a blog-stalker?
UrbanDictionary.com defines blog-stalk -
to secretly read someone's blog with the express purpose of learning more about them without their knowlege.

I am a blog-stalker.
For a while now, I have been following the blogs of a couple incredible photographers who make me want to not only be a better artist, but a better person.
For today's act of kindness, I decided it's time to stop stalking and tell them how much their work has inspired my life, and how I look forward every day to see what they will post.
Check them out and get a little light in your life!

Jasmine Star Photography Blog: www.jasminestarblog.com

Amelia Lyon Photography Blog: http://www.amelialyon.net/

Act of Kindness # 14

I found out about Goods For Goodness Sake through my favorite blog Operation Nice.
Their site is all about where shopping meets philanthropy.
Goods for Goodness' Sake donates 100% of profits to customer-selected charities through the sale of products created by small businesses.
So today, I bought this cute handmade and personalized notepad and magnet set, sent it to someone I love dearly, and selected the charity Stand Up for Kids as the charity of my choice.
I am so excited about this website, and the opportunity it gives us to give not just once, but twice at the same time.

Act of Kindness # 13

I was driving on the way to pick up my Dad from dialysis and a car infront of me was waiting to make a left turn through some crazy traffic. I waited to let the car turn in front of me. I smiled and waved, and the driver smiled back.