Such an amazing evening with the one and only Rosie Perez! She came through Atlanta and stopped by Tree Sound Studiosfor an intimate dinner, reading and discussion about her book:

Handbook for an Unpredictable Life: How I Survived Sister Renata and My Crazy Mother, and Still Came Out Smiling (with Great Hair)

. The conversation was moderated by Tree Sound Studio's GM (and Rosie's longtime friend) Mali Hunter who made it clear from the start that we would not be talking about "that TV show on ABC..." Of course, she was referring to The View where Rosie Perez joins Whoopi Goldberg and Rosie O'Donnell as a new host.

I just got a copy of Rosie's book and I can't wait to dive in, especially after last night. When the book was first published, Rosie experienced a wave of negativity and backlash. Not having read the book yet myself, I'm not entirely sure what about - though I have an idea. Everything changed, Rosie explained, when Piers Morgan called her up, said" I understand your book and I want to you discuss it on my show." After that interview, apologies and praise flooded Perez.

There were plenty of laughs last night as well. Rosie had everyone in stitches with her story about the first time she appeared on Soul Train. This was hysterical. At home, Rosie said, she had all the dance moves down. It's easy when watching from your television because you make no mistakes. That was not the case when the moment of truth arrived. The Soul Train producer counted her down, 5-4-3-2-1 "GO!" It was time to show off your dance skills through the line. You've only rehearsed this moment one thousand+ times. Rosie got a brain and body freeze. The cameras were on her but she couldn't remember the dance steps so she improvised. Rosie made a new dance up from the moves she remembered and went through the line, nervous as hell, anxiety ridden and dry heaving. When she reached the end of the line, feeling a sense of relief that it was over, she was turned around and pushed back through a second, unexpected time!

Cats, dogs and children are all philanthropic causes for Rosie Perez. I've always been a fan of hers but I've gained even greater respect after listening to the story of her life. So inspiring and with all of her success, Rosie remains very humble. [And yes, I'm so excited to see a Latina on The View!!]

What does the future hold for Rosie Perez, in addition to all the wonderful happenings currently on her (very full) plate... She's headed to Broadway to star in Larry David's "Fish In The Dark."

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