Ok, here’s another  confession. I’m currently reading “The Time Traveler’s Wife”…and really enjoying it. I know that’s not earth shattering, but I’m always slightly embarrassed to publicly read anything considered “chick lit,” especially if it’s stamped with big old “Now a Major Motion Picture!” starburst. But, it was recommended by a couple friends whose opinions I really respect. One, who happens to be pursuing a PHD in post-modern literature sheepishly admitted, “I…I really liked it.”

Henry, the main character, time travels throughout the span of his life, sometimes visiting his future self, sometimes going back in time. He’s unable to control when he vanishes and where he ends up, which poses many logistical problems. Much of his travel is brought on by high levels of stress, and one of the few things that helps keep that under control is running.

I thought a lot about this the other night while jogging in the park, and what I nightmare I become when I don’t get regular exercise. Last Thanksgiving my mother and stepfather were in town for 3 days. Between shopping, cooking and family time, about 4 days passed before I got out for a run, and it was definitely making me bitchy. Eventually my mom was like, “Go for a run. You’re scary.” Once I did all the little annoyances that come with intense family visits didn’t seem like such a big deal. I was much more pleasant to be around.

So, as I tromped along, thinking of stress-induced time travel, I came upon a big scene at one of my favorite Park Slope landmarks: The Pavilion movie theater. The current structure was built in 1928. If you read any online reviews, you’ll see that not everyone shares my affinity for the place. It’s old, small, kind of run down…but there’s something very comfy about it’s kitschiness. I like the old marquis, the smaller screens and the fact that there aren’t any expansive escalators bringing you to theater #27.

That night, instead of herds of movie-goers, I found a full-on film crew, lights, cameras, trailers and people with earpieces barking at onlookers:

This isn’t totally unusual.  A lot of film production happens in my hood – the brownstones and tree-lined streets are pretty picturesque.

But, what’s “The Tunic Look?” A new indie film starring Kate Winselt? Is Brad Pitt here? Once I got home I headed straight to my computer and looked it up on the Brooklyn blogs.

Ok, they’re shooting a Sears commercial. For tunics. I only a feel a LITTLE silly for ogling like tourist and taking pictures.

Agenda for today: cupcakes and cardio. I’m going to head for the gym in a bit, but have also committed to making cupcakes for a friends housewarming party. If you ask me, one cancels out the other and I’m all geared up for a perfectly balanced Saturday!

Filed under: Cake, Running, exercise