Hello universe.

I am sitting in the Sheraton Universal Hotel in Hollywood, California. Enjoying the amazing company of at least 100 Stormtroopers. Some in full armor, some in parts of armor and the rest in their specific garrison gear. After a very early morning dress rehearsal, I am so happy to be hanging out with all of the fans. At 3:00 PM P.S.T. the German and Italian Garrisons had their New Year and the UK Garrison sang in the New Year an hour later. (HI Paul!!)

I spent yesterday down here in the lobby and went to bed fairly early. I have spoken with people that I have met through 501.com, FanForce.net and the StarWars.com blogs. I can't thank them enough for the support they have shown me. I've had such a blast with all of these people. The guys have been working their butts of for the Parade tomorrow, and let me tell you they look AMAZING!!

This morning at 4:00 AM we traveled to Azuza where our floats are parked and also where the judging happens. I went into makeup for an airbrushed white face and traditional red Naboo Queen markings. Next went the hair and the first cloak. On the upside my cloak is nice and warm, the downside is that it's so heavy I can barely lift my arms to wave. My arms are already sore from the 10 minutes I was on the float. I have a great handler that will make sure I make it onto the float with out too much trouble. (Thanks Debby!!) Once the judges inspected the float and made their decisions I was able to head home. But before I got to hit the showers we stopped at the practice field where the fighting 501st and the Grambling State marching band we're having their final dress rehearsal. George stopped by to take a peak at what his army was looking like and I think he was impressed.

When I finally got back to the hotel I was able to get the rest of the white make-up out of my hair and ears. At about 1:00 PM we made our way over to Bob's Big Boy (a must stop eatery when visiting Hollywood) for our first meal of the day. They have the best Chili Mac on the west cost. Last night we ate at Henry's Tacos, my favorite taco place EVER!! Tonight is the Star Wars Spectacular dinner with Steve Sansweet, that should being most entertaining. The 501st has taken over this hotel and the wedding parties are not quite sure what to make of it.

A few quick shout outs to:
*John aka: Blasty and his special Gamorian.
* Joslyn for being the best handmaiden in the parade!
* Mary Franklin, I have only seen you once this weekend but Thank you for an amazing opportunity!
* Chris, oh your 3PO costume...amazing work!

P.S. The best camera angles for the parade is the coverage featuring Bob Eubanks and Stephanie Edwards. It's the CW here in LA, who knows what channel it might be in other places. Look for that coverage though or you might not see me.