The “reality” of reality TV is this…  It's a hard decision to make; to put yourself in the public eye and live a time in your life under a microscope.  It opens you up to judgment that, at times, you find yourself ill-prepared for.  And although seeing some of the negative comments can be hard, it’s all part of the process.  I am happy to discover that there are those that would go out of their way to show kindness and support… avoiding the judgments and stereotypes… formulating their own opinions and be willing to base them on a bigger picture… a picture that is not always shown in its entirety.  It speaks volumes about their character!  My most heartfelt thanks go out to those who’ve done just that.   John Mayer said it best.  "Say what you need to say."

I've been receiving tons of emails and messages from my fans addressing some of the "myths" that are out there on the wonderful world-wide web.  I appreciate everyone's support.  I know my defenders are out in full force!  I wanted to post a blog to address some of the common ones they are defending.  So, here it is… straight from the source.  For those that are willing, this blog may be an eye-opener and a revelation that sets some of the records straight.  For others, they will attack my words and attempt to twist them.  For the latter, I am convinced that it wouldn’t matter what I had to say anyways.  Some people formulate opinions and will often stick by and defend them despite new facts.  This blog has not been written for them.  I am writing it for the ones that are willing to be open-minded; that they may have a better understanding.

1)  Myth:  I look down on and talk bad about “strippers.”

 Fact:  I don’t look down on or think I’m better than anyone.  That doesn’t mean that I agree or approve of the actions of everyone around me.  I don’t expect everyone to agree or approve of all of my actions either.  I have never said anything bad about ANY person that works in a Gentlemen’s Club (strip club).  You will NOT hear anything of the sort come from my mouth.  Please formulate your own opinions.  Remember, just because someone says something about another person, doesn’t make it a fact.  A wise quote I once read:  "Believe none of what you hear and only half of what you see."

It is my belief that this misunderstanding has come about due to editing.  On several occasions, I was asked about my occupation.  In attempts to explain it, I had to also explain how being a “stripper” is different than what my job is (since it was regularly being compared to that).  Explaining that there is a difference does not mean that I believe myself to be better… just different.

2)  Myth:  I am on “Rock of Love Bus” to promote “PENTHOUSE.”  That’s why I always wear a “PENTHOUSE” shirt in interviews.

Fact:  I am on “Rock of Love Bus” because I auditioned and was cast on the show.  I accomplished getting cast for the show like every other cast member.  “PENTHOUSE” did not put me on the show or have anything to do with me being cast for it.  After I was cast, “PENTHOUSE” and the “Rock of Love Bus” producers agreed to cooperate.  The “PENTHOUSE” affiliated merchandise I wear on the show is called “product placement.”  There are many other approved products you see on the show: “Pepsi,” “Beautiful Disaster” clothing, “Ed Hardy” clothing, “Affliction” clothing, alcohol brands, hotel names, bar names, etc.  “PENTHOUSE” is just another approved company. 

As for my interview “PENTHOUSE” tank top, all the cast members were asked to attend our first interview segment upon arrival to the set.  Afterwards, our outfits were collected and we were informed that we would be wearing that same outfit for EVERY interview for the course of the show.  That is so they can place your interview segments anywhere they want throughout the show.  It’s called continuity.  Every girl is wearing the same outfit.  Mine just happens to be a “PENTHOUSE” tank top.

3)  Myth:  I won “PENTHOUSE Pet of the Year” because I went on “Rock of Love Bus.”

Fact:  I knew I was “Pet of the Year” before I was even cast for the show.  The producers of “Rock of Love Bus” wanted to reveal the news on the show.  My “Pet of the Year” issue was January 2009.  It was on stands in December 2008.  “Rock of Love Bus” began airing January 4, 2009.

4)  Myth:  Bret doesn’t have as strong of a connection with the girls on this season of “Rock of Love.”

Fact:  This season was filmed on the road during a live tour.  Due to this, we did not have as much access to Bret as in past seasons.  I believe that is the basis for the viewers’ misunderstanding.  I can speak for myself in saying that there are several one-on-one conversations I’ve had with Bret that never made it on the show.  Drama and trauma make better TV than good conversation.  So, that is what you see.  Remember, days of filming are edited down to a 40-45 minute episode.  You only see fragments of the big picture.  When Bret references a “connection” with a particular girl, you can rest assured that he has developed one.  The viewer just hasn’t always seen those connections being built.

5)  Myth:  "Strippers" and "Burlesque Feature Entertainers" are the same thing.

Fact:  A "stripper" or a "house" "entertainer," as I like to refer to them, is a lady who is affiliated with a specific Gentlemen's Club or "strip club." I am a national touring Las Vegas-style Showgirl. My list of credentials and accolades is what makes me marketable to venues throughout the country. I have choreographed theme shows. I have high end, elaborate, custom-made costumes and props. I employ stage assistants, djs, and mc's to execute my shows. I perform at some of the top clubs in the country, including mainstream venues like "The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino" in Las Vegas. I am paid for each stage performance. After each stage performance, I autograph and sell merchandise for my fans. My income is not based on tips and lap dances, like you'd see with "strippers" at a strip club. Although removing clothing is in both job descriptions, this is where the similarities end. Some would say that I do what "strippers" do, but "strippers" don't do what I do.

6)  Myth:  I am there to promote myself and am not interested in Bret.

Fact:  I have nothing to promote.  I am already established in my field to the highest level.  I have an established fan base, website, and career.  I went on the show because I have a lot of the same problems and issues dating I believed that Bret may have.  I always have to question motives and intentions when someone is interested in dating me.  Bret and I have a lot in common.  We both are established in our fields, we both have children that are the center of our lives, music is in our lives and part of our upbringings and backgrounds…  My intentions towards Bret are not something I believe I need to defend.  In this area, his opinion is the only one that matters.  I just wanted to let everyone know that what you see is not what you get when it comes to reality TV.  There is always more than meets the eye.

If there are any other questions you have regarding my appearance on “Rock of Love Bus,” please leave them as a comment on this blog.  I’ll be happy to answer them.

QUESTIONS:

1)  "Nee" complimented my makeup on the show and asked what products I use:

Nee... thanks for complimenting my makeup. I'm a little spoiled in this area, since I've been lucky enough to work with some of the industry's best makeup artists. I pick up tidbits everywhere! I use "Smashbox Healthy FX High Definition Foundation." I also use a lot of "MAC" products. Their "Studio Fix" compacts are wonderful, especially if you like a powder foundation. "MAC" lip liner color "Subculture" is a great neutral lip liner I use every day. Good luck on the makeup hunt sweetie!

2)  "Sage" asked what hair products I use.

You're a doll Sage! I use "Paul Mitchell" Strength Shampoo and Conditioner. As a conditioning treatment, "Fekkai" Protein Rx is wonderful! I use it at least 2 times a week. For extra shine after styling use "Big Sexy Hair" Big Shine spray.

3)  Tina Prewitt McMahon asks:  "Can you be a Penthouse Pet of the Year and still be able to pose in Playboy?  Even though they are both competitors in the same market."

No, you cannot.  I actually worked for "Playboy" first.  I did many shoots/layouts and "Playboy TV" projects with the company.  "PENTHOUSE" recruits models from multiple experience levels and backgrounds.  They review submissions regardless of past affiliations with their competitors.  Many "Playboy" models, like me, have gone on to have amazing careers with "PENTHOUSE."  However, with "Playboy," that is not the case.  They like to recruit amateur models who have not posed nude prior to shooting with them.  There are several "Playmates" that are also "PENTHOUSE Pets," but they shot with "Playboy" first.

4)  "Kitty Kat" asks:  "I would like to know how you keep your body in such good shape?  Any tips or advice you can spare?"

You're actually going to hate me for my answer, but I'm being honest.  I don't have to do much.  I am blessed with good genetics and a high metabolism.  Mindy and I drank TONS of wheat grass on the show, that helped a lot!  I do Pilates for my core strength and flexibility exercises (yoga and stretching).  My work, in general, is very physical.  So, I get a workout from that alone several times a week.  I have established a moderate cardio routine.  It's tough.  Especially when you're on the road a lot, like I am.  But, consistency is key!  If you aren't consistent, it doesn't matter how much you do or how hard you try, you won't see results.  I advise starting slow.  Get up every day and do SOMETHING.  Walk around the block, stretch out, regulate your meals and calories, and drink TONS of water... the more you do every day, the easier it will be.  Good Luck Girl!

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Hope everyone is enjoying the show!  It’s been a wild ride!  I am now in the top 3 on the show, and we are ALL BRUNETTES!!  Keep watching “Rock of Love Bus” on VH1.  New episodes premiere every Sunday at 9pm!

Proud to have my fans on “TEAM  TAYA!!!”

Xoxo, Taya ....
 

"Rock of Love Bus" with Bret Michaels... the season has begun!  For any of you who may have missed it, the first episode will air all week on Vh1, and there is a really interesting show review blog at this link:

http://blog.vh1.com/2009-01-05/rock-of-love-bus-recap-episode-1-third-times-a-charm/

Thank you to everyone who's already commented or messaged me to show your support!  I'm breathing a little easier now that the first episode is behind me and I'm ready to Rock... and "roll!"  On the Blue Bus, "roll"... get it!?  Ok... lol

In connection with the season premiere, VH1 has created pages for each of the girls at the FamousVh1Friends website!  I will be accessing this page regularly to upload new pictures, videos, blogs, etc.  You will be able to keep up with all my show happenings and message me directly!  SOOOO much fun and craziness to come... DON'T miss an episode!

Here's the link to my page at the site:

URL: http://www.famousvh1friends.com/personality/view/118034/tayaparker

Make sure you stop by, create your own page to interact with the Vh1 Personalities, and add me as a friend!!!

Hope you enjoy the show!

xoxo, Taya

Wanted to post a super quick blog to update my friends and fans...

I know I never had the chance to formally announce my newest and most amazing accomplishment... so, here it is for those of you who haven't already heard the news...

I'm your "2009 PENTHOUSE PET OF THE YEAR!"

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all the love and support you've shown me through the years!  Your devotion has paid off, and I am proud to be your "Pet of the Year!"  My new, "Pet of the Year" issue is on stands now (January 2009).  Soon, autographed copies will be available at my website!  Also, keep a look out for the upcoming issue of "The Girls Of Penthouse," as I will grace the cover and centerfold of that as well!  LOTS of great things to come in 2009!  PROMISE to keep you posted!  Thanks again!!!

Also...

I am going to be on the new season of "Rock of Love" with Bret Michaels.... "Rock of Love Bus!"  The countdown is on for the season kick-off episode.... ONE week away!  Premiers January 4th (9pm) on VH1!  Please show your support by watching and leaving feedback for me and on my new fanpages (on my top friends)!

Thank you all again!  I hope your Holidays are fantastic and blessed!

Lovies and Kissies....

YOUR Taya XOXO

UPDATED... AGAIN : DECEMBER 4, 2008

TOMORROW NIGHT...

I'M ON TV AGAIN REPRESENTING "PENTHOUSE" AND ITS NEW OWNER, MARC BELL...

WATCH ME ON "EXTRA" TOMORROW NIGHT!!!

DON'T MISS IT!!!

UPDATE TO "NEW NEWS": NOVEMBER 17, 2008

I'm onstands now in the newest issue of "PENTHOUSE Magazine" (December 2008) along with all the other 2008 Pets in the "Pet of the Year Playoffs" pictorial!  Thank you to everyone who has shown their support for me this year as I await the announcement of the new "2009 PENTHOUSE PET OF THE YEAR!"  I'm soooo nervous!

If you purchase the December 2008 issue of PENTHOUSE now you will receive a 2009 PENTHOUSE calendar featuring all of the 2008 Pets!  I am Miss January 2009!  Pick yours up today!

Wednesday nights (11pm) on "FUSE" there is a new reality show airing called "Redemption Song."  Justine Jolie (2008 "Pet of the Year Runner Up") and I appear on an upcoming episode.  We help the recording contract hopefuls learn about style and how to prepare for a photoshoot!  A little tension arises but a lot of sexy fun too! 

***THIS EPISODE OF "REDEMPTION SONG" AIRS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2008 - 11pm/10c ON THE "FUSE" NETWORK!

Also, I am heading back out to L.A. tomorrow for a taping of an upcoming segment for "EXTRA!"  I'll let you know when it will air!

SOOOO many exciting things are coming up for me!  It looks like 2009 will be even more amazing than this year has been, and that is very hard to imagine!  I have you all to thank for your continued support and encouragement!

ORIGINAL POST BELOW: AUGUST 8, 2008

I had to take the time to send out a quick update...  I am receiving so many messages and emails asking me for this information.  So, I thought I should take the opportunity to update my fabulous fans on the new happenings in my world...

First off... upcoming and current layouts to watch for:

"Stilletto Magazine" (Cover, Centerfold, and article/interview - August 2008)

"The Girls of Penthouse" (layout - July/August 2008)  ON STANDS NOW!

"Penthouse Magazine" (10 page layout with Angie Savage and exclusive article/interview with Jonathan Ages - September 2008)  ON STANDS NOW!

"The Girls of Penthouse" (Pet Confessions with Taya Parker - September/October 2008)  ON STANDS SEPTEMBER 2, 2008!

Also...

I just returned from LA where I shot an interview for "Entertainment Tonight!"  I was chosen, along with 3 other Penthouse Pets, to speak on behalf of "Penthouse" and its new owner, Marc Bell!  It is scheduled to air Friday, September 12, 2008!

Copy and paste this link for some cute paparazzi coverage of our night on the town with "Entertainment Tonight" after our filming!  Clip appears at Celebrities.com!!

http://celebrities.com/stories-from-el-woody/marc-bell-and-the-penthouse-pets-hit-the-town/

I'll send some more updates soon....

It's been a very long week!  Time for some sleep so I can jump in again first thing tomorrow!

Kisses and Thanks...

LOVE my loyal fans and friends,

Taya