Gal on the Prowl - the one with Jazzercise.
- hungrycatmedia
- Jul 24
- 4 min read
Hi my FURRocious friends,
This month, I’m pouncing back in time to share a little slice of my own story, and remind you that you never really know where life (or your next gal pal) will come from.
Some of you know I’ve spent years prowling around the Dallas film scene and I've met some real gems! One of those shining souls is my friend Susan Hamilton. Susan is one of those multi-talented wonders who does all the jobs; Production Designer, Location Manager, Producer, you name it, she’s probably rocked it on a set somewhere in Dallas.
I first met Susan during a pivotal moment in my life. The summer after my divorce, I found myself in a minor car accident. Navigating something like that alone, smack in the middle of a life upheaval, felt almost unbearable, but I knew myself well enough to realize that letting the sadness spiral was NOT an option.
So, what did I do? I decided to make a film. I discovered the 48 Hour Film Project was coming up in just one month. On a hunch, I texted my director and cinematographer, and somehow, in the magic of 2017 technology, they both replied “I'm in” at the exact same time.
Long story short:
We locked in the wedding venue where I’d once said “I do.”
We pulled my old wedding dress out of the closet (the bride character needed a gown, after all).
We got “Mystery” as our genre, and by the end of the weekend, our bride had met her dramatic end in the lake; her water burial doubling as a redemption arc for both the dress and the location.
Our film won the City of Dallas and took us all the way to Paris for Filmapalooza the following spring.
I share this because sometimes the best, most life-affirming friendships are born out of unexpected chaos. The next time life gets messy or your plans take a wild detour, remember: there is always room to stay open to the PAWsibilities.
This Month’s Featured Feline-Friendly Guest is Susan Hamilton!
Susan serves as the Director of Membership at the Denison Chamber of Commerce, where she helps local businesses thrive and brings people together in creative, impactful ways.
She also wears a producer’s hat, creating films that shine a light on the stories that matter most. And when she’s not championing entrepreneurs or crafting cinematic magic, you’ll find her embracing the joy of jazzercise (which she swears is the most fun you can have while working out—cat ears optional)
Recently, Susan has been navigating the profound loss of her father, who was her greatest inspiration and best friend. She spent years visiting him daily, making joyful TikTok videos that captured his larger-than-life spirit. Now, she’s learning to rediscover herself beyond the role of daughter and caregiver.
Join me in giving Susan a big virtual high five (or paw bump)!
What have I been up to this past month? For one, I’ve been learning all about my rights around work injuries; so many new terms (like “ombudsman,” which sounds fancy but basically means someone who helps you figure out your rights).
And because life loves to keep things interesting, my identity was stolen back in 2023. Plot twist: apparently, my clone out in California used my name and Social Security number to “earn” $18,000 in 2022. The IRS is now demanding I pay $8,000 in taxes for money I never saw. It’s made every tax filing since look like an extra full litter box. SO much ick!
Thankfully, I have the world’s most unflappable CPA. While I was busy mentally cataloging every terrifying thing the IRS can do, like seizing your bank account, my CPA kept reassuring me we’d sort it out. And we will. Stay tuned for updates on The Great Identity Theft Saga. Until then, stay CLAWsome!
Love & Purrs,
Jessica 🐾
P.S. I joined backstage which is a casting group because I was inspired to take on a hobby (THX Susan). One company needs someone who has gone through identity theft to tell their story...I'll keep you posted. Maybe even that can turn into something good...?
Leotard or leg warmers? You can only pick one to wear to your next jazzercise class. 😸 Reply with your choice! Bonus points if you send a photo!
Also, do you enjoy the emails? Send feedback. It's lonely being alone creating things with no feedback...my cat is of no help.
🚨 EVENT ALERT 🚨
FURR my Prowlers! I'm doing a special podcast for my PURRthday Month with guest LeeAnne Locken !!! This show will be filmed a the dallas studios with a LIVE audience! If you want to be there, nab a ticket. You can bring a friend if there is space. This is currently private and invite-only. See you then!
P.S. lots of love to my sponsors who make everything PAWsible:
😺
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