Slappin' the Watermelon
Publish Date: May 11, 2010

Today I flicked off a watermelon.
I must admit, after working on a scorching hot studio set, I was proud to do so.

There are few things more trying than attempting to say the right thing, do the right thing and be in the right place at the right time, in an uncomfortable (HOT) environment.

However, with that said, my day ended on a high note.
      
Recently, the Texas Watermelon Association asked me to be the face and voice of GO TEXAN, producers of the best watermelons in the world. I accepted, knowing that I would soon have to begin shooting several commercials in English and Spanish for all to see.

I showed up fashionably late at Cardell Cabinets, a new and brilliantly done showroom in San Antonio, ready for make-up and wardrobe. However, no one notified me that I'd be working on a set with no air conditioner. I don't know about you, but I sweat and I'm not happy when I'm hot ... who is?

(I later learned that having an air conditioner running while trying to film a commercial is a huge no-no)

Needless to say, by take 10 of commercial spot number one, I was more than ready for a break, and had the urge to strip off my long-sleeved shirt and throw it in the trash can. All I wanted was air ... cold air ... but as I sat in front of the fan, my contacts began to dry, only causing my heart rate to excel.

Now that I sound like a complete drama king, I will say that I eventually cooled down, both physically and emotionally and completed day one, with Cevallos Brothers Productions and their crew.

I'm thankful, for their hard work and dedication to get the job done right, without fail.

Today, I can add to my list that I've slapped a watermelon and made it my ... ok, enough said.
I also learned that hearing your director say "Mark that a PG" means that I just did a nearly perfect commercial, meaning "Pretty Good."

For those of you looking for that perfect watermelon, look no further! Log on to www.texaswatermelons.com or shoot me an email to score the perfect melon.    

Here is the recipe of the day:

My one note is that ONE SHOULD NEVER, EVER, EVER, EVER, buy Harissa sauce.  It's easy to make and canned products are awful!

Harissa Sauce

5 red peppers, roasted

1 teaspoon cardamom, ground

1 teaspoon coriander, ground

1 tablespoon cumin, ground

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 bunch cilantro

3 cloves garlic

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Place all of the ingredients in a food processor and purée until smooth.  Adjust seasonings.  Refrigerate until needed.