This year's fan event had sunny weather and happy fans from all over the world. I can't begin to tell you how many actors were so touched by their interaction with all you devoted fans. I even think some of the newbie actors were floored with just how big this event was.

Day of Days is also a great opportunity to bring the cast together. A lot of people don't realize that unless there is a storyline that brings their characters together, a lot of these actors don't see each other on the set. It allows the cast to catch up with one another.

Backstage was abuzz with the actors who were busy going in and out, grabbing food and drinks before heading off to their next interview or autograph-signing. But, despite all the craziness, there were a lot of laughs going on. Events like this are never seen as work, but as opportunities for the actors to say "thank you" for all of your support. Days of our Lives would not be what it is today without the fans.

I hope you all continue checking back for my latest Day of Days interviews with the cast, actors' Q & As, and more!

Thanks, again!

These are some of fun photos taken from the event, enjoy!

Days Insider: What do you think fans are in store for with the return of Vivian?

Louise: You know I haven't seen that many scripts in advance, so the fans are in for as much of a surprise as I am! I mean, I can tell you the obvious, that Vivian is going to set her sights on getting her revenge on Carly. Which is interesting, because Vivian is being woven in with characters I've worked with before. Then again, I'll have some interaction with the younger crowd on the show. I'm just kind of winding my way as I turn each page. I honestly don't know where my story line is going.

Days Insider: Is it as much fun as it looks playing the bad girl?

Louise: It is always so much fun! I've never been good playing the kind of nice girl. Don't get me wrong; I'm a nice person in real life. But, when you play the bad girl, you are given liberties to do things that you would be either shot at or knocked out if you did in real life. It's always fun to be a sort of hell-raiser.

Days Insider: Well, you do such a good job at playing the bad girl.

Louise: Well, thank you. I look forward to seeing how it appears on TV in the upcoming weeks on the show.

Days Insider: We all are looking forward to seeing how it will play out with Vivian's return to Salem. Welcome back!

As always, I love reading your comments. Please share with me some of your favorite Vivian Alamain moments and what you are looking forward to most with her return to Salem.

Here's a picture at Taylor Spreitler's birthday party...

Anyway, last weekend was Taylor's sweet 16 birthday party in Hollywood. I went with Molly and met up with Mark Hapka, Nadia Bjorlin, and Brandon Beemer. I wish I had a party like that at 16! She had this huge Fender guitar cake I thought was SO cool. They were spinnin' a good playlist, so Molly and I busted out our moves on the dance floor while Mark, Nadia, and Brandon were studying our skills. Haha.

As of now we're on another week hiatus and getting ready for next Saturday, November 7th for Day of Days!

Who is coming?!

Days Insider: Are you getting any advice here about motherhood? (For the few of you who do not know, Ari is pregnant in real life.)

Ari: Yes, yes, yes! I really enjoy the advice, too. I love being around children, but still haven't had one of my own, yet. I used to work at a mommy and me-like gymnastics class when I was 17, my high school sweetheart got me the job, and talk about a rewarding job. I taught four month olds to seven year olds in different levels of classes. I felt that gave me a good boost into a little of what motherhood is like. I have my personal ideas of what kind of mother I'd like to be and I've talked to my girlfriends on their own mothering skills. I'll lift ideas from them on certain things. I do know for sure I believe in setting your kids up to succeed. I try to be as positive of a person as I can, already, when I wake up day to day, and I want to inject that into my daughter and future children, you know, in case if I have a litter; then again, I don't know how work will feel with me carrying a litter! It's always great to ask for advice, because how else are you going to learn anything?

Days Insider: Are there any secrets to handling such emotionally heavy scenes like the ones you have been dealing with recently?

Ari: I don't know if it's as much of a secret, as it is just being prepared as an actor in this kind of genre. We have film actors come here and say to us they don't get how we can do this level of acting day to day. It's easier when you have a short stint on our show. I think the only secret is to know your lines every day. If you have to keep thinking about what your next line is going to be, how are you going to be able to pull an emotion in, too? As tough of a teacher as he was, I got that from Stephen Book, who is a really great teacher and he's so right. You think about memorizing your lines and sure, as an actor, of course you have to do that, but he always said, "If you don't know the words, you CANNOT play." That's been stuck in my head since his classes. Then, here, when you start doing the scenes it all comes together. The group of actors I work with are wonderful, we go to lunch together, we hang out after work together, and the trust has been established; I think that's when those tough scenes really take off. That's the secret, I guess. It was a long story and don't know if there was a definite answer in there, but there you go!

Days Insider: We have seen your character evolve throughout the years in Salem, do you have a favorite storyline of all time?

Ari: The run right now is by far my favorite. But, if I was to go and look back at storylines, I can say I loved working with John Aniston. I loved our scenes. Once we established who we were, those fighting scenes were great. His one-liners were classic and the constant bickering was so much fun. John is such a funny man and he delivers the best funniest jokes as Victor Kiriakis, while keeping a straight face. I couldn't tell a joke as good as him to save my life, because he's so good at it. Looking back, I think our characters were married for four years, so anything that had to do with John Aniston is one of my best times. During those years, I loved when Nicole was trying to sneak out through her bedroom window and Victor catches her and walks up to me and I'm thinking he's going to yank me back in, but instead he pushed me right out the window. All of this rehearsed, of course, but the look on his face when he does it was priceless. I felt like a cartoon character in that scene.

As always, thanks for checking out the blog and leaving your comments about the interview. As promised, you are in for some fabulous scenes involving Ari, James, and Alison that will keep you glued to your television screens for days to come.

I wanted to sit down and chat with Ari and talk about her current heavy storyline and how much her character has evolved throughout the years in Salem. Keeping in mind that Ari is one of the most sincere actresses I've ever met in this business, it's always a pleasure to sit down and catch up. She's always welcoming and while interviewing her, you can't help but forget that you're there doing a job and not just having a conversation with a friend you haven't seen in awhile. Hope you enjoy the first half of my interview and look forward to the second half next week!

Days Insider: Do you prefer emotional storylines like the one you are currently working with or more of the lighter stuff that you had earlier?

Ari: I think it depends on what the story is and how you are going to take it and run with it. I love a challenge, but the fluffy stuff is fun and it's a nice comedy relief for us, because we don't get to do a lot of comedy on soaps. But, as an actress, throw whatever you got at me. Challenge me.

Days Insider: The scenes that you and James have been shooting have been amazing. Do you do a lot of rehearsing beforehand, or just go with your emotions as soon as you start filming?

Ari: I think now that James and I have worked so much together, we have earned a certain amount of trust with one another. We'll discuss certain things about the scenes, because we both come in with strong ideas. We try not to tell each other what we will do, just go with it. Not a lot of actors are like that, they like to be more prepared. Of course, when the scene calls for something physical, you have plan ahead. But, when it comes to emotional fights, I'd like to think we both like to surprise each other. There have been times when I'm like, "Woah, I didn't see that coming," and then I throw it right back at him.

Days Insider: How have has it been acting with the babies? (Sydney is played by twins.)

Ari: You have to make sure you have a connection with them outside work, and I spend time with them. I play with them beforehand, just to get them comfortable with me. That really helps, because now whichever baby I have a scene with, she just comes to me. Boy do they let us know when it's time for a break, but most of the time, they are a dream to work with and I feel fortunate that they like me.

Hope you enjoyed the first half of my interview with the always-lovely Arianne Zucker. Make sure to check back next week as Ari talks more about dealing with emotional scenes and one of her favorite storylines of all time. In the meantime, feel free to share with me your favorite Nicole Walker DiMera moments throughout the years on Days of our Lives.

Days Insider: Now that you are back in Los Angeles...? (Crystal moved back to L.A. after she wrapped up "Guiding Light," which was filmed in New York.)

Crystal: Well, it's been great being back. Michael is from here, so it's been nice for him, as well. I totally forgot that it's sunny here all the time. When you get used to New York weather, especially lately, it's a bit of shock coming back to L.A. and seeing sunshine in your daily forecast.

Days Insider: What has it been like being back on Days of our Lives?

Crystal: I've been having so much fun and I'm working with such a great story. I love my character, she's evolved and she's edgier. She even has a sense of humor, thank God! I'm having a blast working with Peter again, and Michael, and sharing scenes with Kristian. I'm just having a lot of fun.

Days Insider: Is there a certain direction you would like to see Carly Manning take?

Crystal: You know, I just like characters that get in trouble. I think Carly is very passionate about things and sometimes that leads to getting herself in trouble and in return, I think that is a lot of fun.

Days Insider: Is there an actor or character that you look forward to having more scenes with, this time around?

Crystal: Well, I'm mostly coming back to the show with a new cast, so I look forward to sharing scenes with a lot of new people. With Peter, it's like trying on a pair of comfortable shoes, I enjoy sharing scenes with him. And I have never gotten to work with Kristian, so I look forward to working with her. Then we have Louise Sorel coming back as Vivian and I expect some great stuff with her and that will be a blast.

Days Insider: Looking back, do you have a favorite storyline from Carly's past?

Crystal: I was given lots of good ones, but the big one that people recognize me most for is the buried alive story. I mean, how often do you get to do that, as an actress? I am also a fan of all the romantic stuff. I think that's what I like most about Days is they are great with telling US stories. It was also great to do the Bo and Carly love story back then. I remember our Aztec wedding that we actually really shot in Mexico, which was fun. I have a lot of good memories from back then.

Days Insider: Well, welcome back! I'm glad you are having a lot of fun and I'm sure fans will be eager to see what they can expect with Carly's return.

Crystal: Thank you!

I am sure you are anticipating Crystal's return on Days as much as I am. As always, leave comments on where you'd like to see Carly's storyline go and whom you would like to see Crystal share scenes with. I have a feeling we should expect a lot of shake-ups in Salem when October rolls around.

Not just because my scenes had a lot of dialogue, but also because they were emotionally demanding and required a lot of focus to put a character in the shoes of a teen father. You see, Chad finally finds out about the baby... yes I know, I know.... it's been long overdue, but soon you'll get to see Chad's true colors after finding out Mia's secret.

In case you were wondering, the United States has the highest teen pregnancy rate, and has reported 745,000 teen pregnancies each year! That's a random, but alarming fact of the day for you. Even though I'm not a teen father, I still got to experience a small taste of it. Being a teen father is one thing, but being a teen father and not knowing about it is another. So when that bomb does get dropped on Chad, he has so many things going through his mind at once, he's putting the pieces to the puzzle together, he's understanding why she's been acting the way she has towards him. I don't think any teenager is really prepared for that kind of news, and most may think it won't happen to them, but trust me it does. I feel extremely blessed to be able to play this character, I get to experience things I never would in real life. During those two weeks of constant taping I learned a lot about myself, about my character, and the actors I work with. I had some amazing scenes with Taylor, Ari, James, and Alison. They are fantastic to work with... DOOL fans are in for a treat!

During the break you can guess I slept a lot. Recovering from my hectic schedule. LOL! Molly and I went to the Emmys and had a blast!!! I was so stoked to see DOOL win some Emmys. Molly looked so beautiful, she really did, and I felt so lucky to be there with her.

We also went to the beach with friends. Molly and I were being taught how to skim board, but that mission was a failure. Seriously, it has got to be the most difficult sport in the world... mad props to the kids that can pull that off!

Alright, everyone, thanks so much for taking the time to read what I have to say, you all have been so awesome!!! If you have a Twitter, follow Molly and I :) @scusecaseyd @mollydollyy

Take care,
Casey Deidrick

*Editors' Note: For more information about teenage pregnancy, prevention, facts and news please visit www.sexreally.com

Keep checking back with the Insider blog for fun updates about the ceremony, the dinner and more importantly, the after-party.

Hope everybody enjoyed the show. Let me know what you thought about the winners, the fashion, and seeing your favorites at the ceremony!

This is Tamara's Emmy from last night. I didn't expect it to be so shiny, but it made for an awesome centerpiece at our banquet dinner after the ceremony.

Whaaaat's up DAYS' fans??

This is Casey Deidrick (Chad Peterson). I know some of you are probably thinking to yourself..."Who?" or "Oh, that tall creep who knocked Mia up!"

Well, that's okay, it's understandable... hopefully by me writing these weekly blogs and uploading some of my favorite photos, I can connect more with you loyal DAYS fans! I'm crossing my fingers. Anyways, some very exciting stuff will be coming up soon, with this little love triangle I got going on here, between Will, Mia, and I. Maybe some of you remember your teenage romances?? Well, I am sure they don't involve babies being sold on the black market, or baby swaps, or any of that jazz. But when you find your first love, I'm pretty sure you'd do just about anything to win him/or her back... am I right? So, don't write Chad off just yet!

These past few weeks I've had a crazy schedule with taping the show, and have been dealing with some pretty heavy scenes. In case some of you don't already know, I've been spending a lot of my time with my co-star and beautiful girlfriend Molly Burnett (Melanie Layton). She and I have been causing some chaos together, along with co-star and homey for life, Mark Hapka.

Molly, I just have to put it out there, is the most amazing person I've ever met. And I couldn't be happier being with her.

Let's see what else has been going on. Oh yeah, my band played a show last night. For all you metal music fans, check out my band, A Dreadful Fall, on our MySpace page.

Ok, I'm going to go meet up with Molly to see "The Time Traveler's Wife." I just wanted to say thanks to whomever decided to read this, I know you all have busy lives, but seriously thanks for checking my new blog out. And even if you don't like my character on the show, or the teenage storyline, I just wanted to say thank you for watching.

Everyone have a great week! I love my DOOL fans!

Mark Levin: I found out about my nomination from the supervising producer of the show. He had just downloaded the information off the Internet and told me about it as I was walking past him.

How long have you been with "Days of our Lives?"

Ted Polmanski: I've been with "Days of our Lives" since 1992. Prior to that, I did "Santa Barbara" and "Generations." I also have done various primetime and daytime shows.

Mark Levin: I have been working with "Days of our Lives for almost seven years. Prior to "Days," I spent 20 years as a director of photography for primetime television series and specials. During the 1980s, I was one of the lighting directors for "General Hospital," during the Luke and Laura period.



Sounds like these two guys have enough experience with daytime drama to know what the fans want to see on television. It's nice to finally see them be rewarded with an Emmy nomination. I'll be keeping my fingers crossed for Mark and Ted, as well as all the 12 other categories "Days of our Lives" is nominated in, and I know you will, too!

How did you find out you were nominated for a Daytime Emmy?

Dan Olexiewicz: I was working on the stage when the news came that our department was nominated for an Emmy. It was a pleasant surprise.

Tom Early: I heard from Dan Olexiewicz.

Danielle Mullen: I found out the news from Dan.

How did you start your career on "Days of our Lives?

Dan Olexiewicz: I actually worked for the show on two separate periods during my career. The first time I joined the Art Department was after working as art director for a TV commercial. The second time I rejoined after working on several feature films.

Tom Early: I began my career at "DOOL" 18 years ago. Before my time here, I freelanced as a decorator in films and decided to find something more stable.

Danielle Mullen: After working as an interior designer, I worked at a prop house for a couple of years and met a previous decorator on "Days," who referred me to the production designer, Dan Olexiewicz.

Did you always have aspirations to work in entertainment and design?

Dan Olexiewicz: I was hooked after watching the first "Indiana Jones" movie. I was impressed by the way the designer created a visual world within the context of the film and I knew I had to be part of this fascinating process.

Tom Early: Yes, I have always wanted to work in the arts. My major in college was illustration. I continue to draw and paint and I view decorating as an extension of my training.

Danielle Mullen: I went to school for interior design and worked in that field in Dallas and Atlanta. I moved to Los Angeles and found out about the Art Department and knew it would be perfect for my personality.

What is life like on the set of "Days of our Lives?"

Dan Olexiewicz: It is very fast-paced and exciting and every day brings a new design challenge or goal that must be accomplished.

Tom Early: It's stable, there is always something happening. The spirit on the set is truly like a family, a great group of people.

Danielle Mullen: Each day at "DOOL" has its own new challenge filled with tons of interesting moments.

There you have it. Life as an artist on the set of "Days of our Lives." I would love to have a job that allows me such creative freedom to do the job that I love. And clearly this crew is doing something right, they received an Emmy nomination. Remember to check back for my next installment from the Road to the Emmys.

I had so much fun covering the latest photo shoot for the soap, mostly because all the cast participating was so entertaining. The shoot had great weather, which is so important when dealing with lighting and time as an issue. Of course, when everything works out so well on a photo shoot, it naturally puts everybody else in a great mood. Check out the picture I took of James and Ari below as an example. I love working with these two because they always know how to have fun while patiently waiting for their call time.

On top of great weather, I also was able to hang out and get to know two of the newer faces to the show, Casey Jon Deidrick and Mark Hapka. Both guys were more than outgoing and seemed to fit right in with the seasoned pros on the set.

Casey was cool enough to let me do a quick interview with him using my FlipCam and then I was able to talk to the never shy Bryan Dattilo in between photo takes. I'll make sure to upload all of my video footage from the photo shoot this week, so you can see for yourself.

Hope you enjoy some of the photos I took while covering the shoot. As you can see for yourself, great weather, great timing, great attitudes and great faces always make a photo shoot like this a lot of fun to work with.