FNL: Report from the Background

It's been pretty quiet in here lately. (Thanks, I do have a gift for understatement.) So, here's an update...

I've had a few opportunities in the last year or so to work as an extra on the TV series Friday Night Lights, as much of it shoots here in the Austin area. Couldn't fit it into my schedule on most days, but last Wednesday I decided to get in on the action.

I'd hoped to work as a Coach, but the only slots left for my type and age were for Parents. I showed up at the ersatz home of the Dillon Panthers, ready to shoot a scene where parents rally for their "sons" as they're bused off to an away game.

We waited as Panther cheerleaders engaged in the shoe-polish ritual:

It was cloudy most of that morning, until around 11 or so when the sun decided to remind us that it might be October, but central Texas doesn't really see Fall until at least November. Between takes and multiple camera setups, I tried to shield my face from the solar onslaught --- I'd left the sunscreen at home. By the time we were done waving and cheering (mostly in pantomime), I knew without even looking in a mirror that my mug was going to be lobster-red.

Just before the final command of "check the gate" from the 1st AD, things changed a bit:

Nice timing, cloud cover. Sure, maybe you looked threatening, but you didn't even produce any rain to cool us off.

On an up note, Kyle Chandler ("Coach Taylor") was kind enough to say hi as he hurried to wardrobe. Reports of his being an exceptionally nice guy are confirmed.

Weight Loss Going Well.....

Well...it has been tough but the weight loss and workout plan seems to be paying off. As you can tell from the before and after photos progress has been made......abs coming around and the clothes (ok, bikini underwear!) seem to be fitting better....Hope all is well with everyone and you have enjoyed my progress report......ok, its someone elses turn to keep us all up to date on family happenings......

Take care,

Mike

007 Status: Revoked.

Read all about it.

One last thing.....I am now on a diet and just wanted everyone to see the "before" photo !! I have hired a personal trainer to drop the pounds and this photo was taken of "me" right after my first workout and as you can tell I have a long way to go....excuse the "bikini" underwear but they make me feel sexy and the shoes help me to look taller.....wow! Imagine how I will look when that mid section is a firm six pack....I will keep you posted with updated pics if you like?? Take care all and wish me luck !!

Mike

Forgot to add this pic.....

Jonathan Houston - Baseball

Jonathan had a great year as a freshman at Arkansas Tech University this year. Started as a freshman, batted .339 , 3 homeruns and was named to the Gulf South Conference 1st team All-Conference.....He has decided to transfer and play one year of junior college baseball. He was offered a full baseball scholarship to Northeast Texas Community College in Mt. Pleasant, Texas adn will play there next year. For you Texas family members (thats most of you!!) he will be playing in your neck of the woods some...Alvin Community College, Blinn Community College, Angelina, Wharton, San Jacinto, etc......I will get his schedule on here as soon as it comes out . The hope is that he will have a good year and be recruited to a Division I school like, Arkansas, Texas, A&M, Oklahoma, Sam Houston ,etc....Lets keep our fingers crossed......enough bragging, just wanted you to know.....

Stifler's MOM !!

Gee little brother....hanging out with Stifler's mom!! Man I am jealous....Congrats on the role....Keep us posted on your happenings. Anything new on the video game voice over ??
Mike