j-flamingo reflections

A Lesson in Conceptualization: Steve Jobs 1955-2011

2011-10-19T19:12:00.002-05:00

"Efforts to conceptualize the history and structure of the universe were already running into trouble because . . . the universe was not as uniform as had been assumed" ~John Noble Wilford

This ability

of Steve Jobs

to conceptualize

yet more than that

to create from a point defined

in abstract

brought to life

in a practical solution

unwasted

useable

life-altering

something to covet

technology in the palm of your hand

one for the books

another to entertain

three for the money

all in amazing connection

from stars to glory

trailing bytes

transforming dots

willingly giving a place

to the ever inventive

"i"

as a miracle

portrayed from efforts of many great minds

thinking alike

yet differently

being motivated by an unusual visionary

mindful of genius

teaching us all in the end

of dreams coming true

changing how we communicate

think

create

write

all within a lesson

formed from an "i"

to conceptualization.

Thank you, Steve Jobs.

We will remember.

***

*photo credit: http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/technology/2011/10/06/steve-jobs-dead-pioneering-apple-founder-dies-aged-56-115875-23470343/

**note: I posted this at dVerse~ poets pub which is an amazing place to be captivated by other poets. Go ahead, read what they're sharing or join in!

Let's Talk Tech: Feed 101 (Guest Post)

2011-09-30T07:10:00.006-05:00

I feel a connection/sparked by a glance/your eyes/I want to talk to you/know you/but we are strangers/i look different/same within we remain
#micropoetry by me, Julie.

Today, I'm happy to bring you a guest post from my online friend, Rainy. How you can find out more about her is at the bottom of this post. Please take a minute to visit her, say "hi" and thank her for her ideas.
After all, relax, read up and let's talk tech!

Feed 101

Feed is a service which allows a blog author to easily notify about blog updates. It is sometimes collectively called “RSS” or “Atom”, but that is mistaken. Those are actually different types of feed services. Regardless of what type of feed you use, the end result is the same.

People can subscribe to feed in numerous ways. They might use a service like Google Reader, which centralizes all their subscriptions online. Or they might use their smart phone, or even software which supports it, such as some e-mail clients.

Feed is also handy for syndicating. For example, the famous Technorati website utilizes blog feed to keep profiles updated. The popular Blogspot blog roll which shows the latest blog posts of links in its list also relies on feed. In fact, feed is working in the background more often than you might realize.

If you'd like to use feed to keep up on your favorite blogs, first decide what service you would like to use. Google Reader is a great place to start. Next, visit the blogs you wish to follow and look for their “Feed”, “RSS” or “Atom” option. The button usually has a “broadcasting” symbol. Copy that link into your reader and save it. Now you can visit the reader to see all the new blog posts for each blog you added, instead of visiting each website individually or flooding your inbox with newsletters.

If you'd like to add a feed option to your website, don't worry—it's easy! Most blog software has it built in. For example, at the bottom of a Blogspot blog, you will usually see a link that says “Subscribe to posts”. That's the feed. If you use Wordpress, the feed can usually be found by visiting www.yourdomain.com/feed/.

You can also use a free service like Feedburner. Just burn your feed once and follow the directions. You will not need to burn the feed with every update. Only once is necessary.

There is a few disadvantages with using feed. Most feed services do not have a counter of any kind, so there's no way of knowing exactly how many people are subscribed. Feedburner does count, but it's better to consider it to be approximate and not exact.

Also, just because you offer Feedburner doesn't mean everyone is using it. People who know how blog software works may opt to not use Feedburner and instead use the built-in one, which won't register anywhere. So, as with most things, it's probably better to rely on your hits counter than trying to track how many people are subscribed.

That aside, feed is an awesome service which makes life as both a blog author and blog reader much easier.

Do you use feed to follow blogs? What service do you use?

***When Rainy Kaye isn't plotting world domination, she enjoys coaching others about it on her blog http://www.rainyofthedark.com.
She also likes fluffy kittens.

**Credit: Thanks to Find a Kitten for this image.

Poem: Within Pain

2011-09-23T17:59:00.003-05:00

Thinking back
when you feel pain
it hurts
highly affected
hard to believe
how it hurts so much
Answers may not be visible
meds may not be correct
turn your world around
keep finding a way past the pain
Don't give up
Look and see
someone is reaching out
to wish you comfort
as you have waited
find a dream
feel solace
know that friends care
find within hearts
love
that may ease some
pain
Remain hopeful.

D9: #Novelpi ~ The space between thoughts...

2011-09-09T23:52:00.001-05:00

I need space to think at times. There are so many things to do or to say so I need to feel like I can. I’m tired yet wide awake. I’m not sure where that fits in this grand scheme of my plans. I feel selfish when I feel like this. I feel frustration and sadness too. It hurts when I am angry and I don’t mean to hurt anyone ever, at all.

I love you but then I’m not sure if I really can enough. I need you yet I want my space. What is this all supposed to mean? This is a process of figuring out that at times you have to do what’s best even if you feel differently. Yet, navigating this can be so hard. I’ll find a way to understand you without judgement and this might help. I’m sorry is the simplest way to say it but it is also really hard. I want to quit at times but that really isn’t an option because it would lead to different problems and a whole set of others too. Instead, I look inward and dare to wish forward. In the end, it all changes and comes to a finish line which is hard to determine.

***
For #Novelpi, word count: 254 ~ Still writing and still learning!

D8: #Novelpi ~ A Flower

2011-09-08T13:35:00.001-05:00

I crept down the moonlit path. I didn't look too far ahead or to the sides. All around the thick air I could feel the immensity in waves of destruction. This feeling I could not shake even if I wasn't sure it was true. I dared not look around. I kept moving.Through all of this effort, a thought raged inside, to keep me focused toward the relief I needed to come. This was most important.

A massive feeling of doom threatened to overtake my heart but I managed to stave this ominous feeling by taking a minute to find a flower. I bent down to look at it closely. It was small, barely visible in the dust. Yet it peeked through the dirt in its purple and white brightness. It brought a smile to my lips as I realized that those colors were my school colors. I reveled in the memories of meeting the creature at this moment. I didn’t know why but it was happening in my memory now and I felt so relieved instead of the anxiety that a moment before had been upon me.

Looking forward enhanced the beauty of the experience and that’s when I had seen the flower. Yet looking back in the windows of memory had helped control my frustration that a critical moment like this with so much destruction had delivered. This had been my whole world but now it was no longer. My memory windows would have to work harder to replace this scene set before me. I closed my eyes for minute to think. I didn’t pick the flower. I left it there and I hope that it will bring hope to the next eyes who might see it. I hope they look and find it visibly there. I felt it would bring them the same hope that it did for me. This image in my mind felt wonderful.
***

For #Novelpi, word count: 283 ~ I'm still hanging on and processing many thoughts.

D7: #Novelpi ~ Favorite Music: Matchbox20 & Rob Thomas

2011-09-07T17:50:00.001-05:00

Anyone else fans of Matchbox20 and/or Rob Thomas?

I am! Here's one of his performances of Cradlesong at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta, GA, on September 30, 2009.

Also, a superb Matchbox20 song. Bright Lights performed LIVE for Hard Rock Orlando.

Since I love an excuse to write, talk, research, listen to or learn about this band, I signed up to write articles for a fan site called Matchbox20Plus. Right now, you can vote for them as "Best Fan Site." I'm enjoying writing for this site! I'll continue to improve and I appreciate their patience with me as I learn the ropes.

For #Novelpi today, I did do better about getting down to the business of writing although my word count of 426 felt low, I'm still meeting my goal. I signed up for a goal of 250 words per day but personally I'm aiming for 500 words per day.

Last but not least, here's my poem about Rob Thomas as a singer:

This is for you, Rob

Wait - be prepared

to stop exactly on the spot

where I am

as the music starts

identify

Rob's strong voice

already listening

I start to feel

elevated ~

Then again as I watch

Rob's performance

I'm reminded from

lines on his face

'bright lights' in his eyes

it's his ever-pounding heart

what's inside his blood

escaping from his soul

as he shares fragments

of himself

proving how much

this element called music

means to him in his life

willingly sharing

this kind fervor

with his fans

allowing them to feel

his elation ~

Realizing

after all those

long days

always

it's the fans

giving you

time

to keep creating

what you love

most.

Thanks for the music

and here's to even more!

***

D6: #Novelpi ~ Poem: Clarity

2011-09-06T13:49:00.004-05:00

Find a way to fight past the confusion
leave behind
old suitcases
battered shoes
from streets of tiny rocks
combining to make a pathway
to finding treasures of the soul
wasting away
words that meet us in the middle of our minds
until a picture is formed from their image
stolen secrets of time
faded deep inside our memories
as a beaten drum
returning a constant beat
glorifying a dedication
to return to who one might long to be
finding time
capturing lines
in flight of fancy
concluding slowly and spreading out
to meet the wind
as the shadows roll in
looking for a way to join
the blue skies
in traveling away from cluttered thoughts
to remain in clarity.
***

I enjoyed the process in my mind as this poem took shape. I may be biased but I'm happy with the way it turned out.

For #novelpi today, I felt as if I put off my writing time and then barely squeaked out 428 words. I didn't like the way that felt. I had started to feel better about being regular in my writing even if my word count is low I'm happy when I don't procrastinate. I'm looking forward to doing better!

D5: #Novelpi - Poem: Neglectful Me

2011-09-05T08:55:00.002-05:00

Days as this

tend to feel

wasted

as time is erased

during neglectful moments

exasperated

with a realization

Is this who I am?

Unmastered

unqualified

unmotivated

harnessing consequences

of unfortunate situations

piled up

ever widening paths

meant to be straighter

easier to navigate

finding empowerment.

Instead, haunting peace

entrapping negativity

beginning to believe

this is a way days are meant to be

testing

until comprehension

boils inside us

where the very sense

of change

of hope

of love

of fulfillment

might enchantingly exist

finding residence within minds

once neglected.

***

That's the poem that came out of this unfortunate frustration since I didn't get my writing done as I had wanted. As far as #novelpi goes for today, I neglected to complete my word count task coming in way under 100 words for the day. So, this is strike one & hopefully my last.

If I may, use my freeze ray to stop my disregard and start over tomorrow.

Enjoy a clip from the movie Despicable Me:

Freeze Ray~"I'm havin' a bad, bad day..."

Also, I decided to share this poem for the first time on dverse poets pub ~ Be sure to read all of the talented poets already posting there or feel free to share your own poem if you'd like.

D4: #Novelpi ~ Poem: All I Can Do

2011-09-04T18:42:00.001-05:00

It hardly seems fair
that I can't be true to myself.
I don't measure up
to expectations or standards
placed before me.

I would like to be
loyal
honest
but it always seems cut short
painfully aware
that I'm not.

All I can do
if I even know what to do
is to believe
is to live
as I know truth.

My perceptions are all quite skewed
I've created this reality
I need to belong to it.

Once again, I realize
it hardly seems fair
confusing even
that I just can't be who
I really might be.

***

#Novelpi's Word count for today: 704, 6:41 p.m. Central.

I'm still writing away and it has been helping me feel happy to make this time for myself to write and purge the thoughts from my mind. I'm not necessarily structured or focused yet so I'm writing on various topics. Writing has always been cathartic for me and I sense the way it moves me inside. Basically, my thoughts keep swimming and evolving in my mind where I personally enjoy feeling them dwell. Most of all, I need to write and share them with you. Thanks for indulging me!

As I've thought about this writing process today, it reminds me of this video from Rob Thomas, who is my favorite singer & songwriter, where he talks about what songwriting feels like for him. I love what concepts and insight he shares in the video about writing in general and it has stayed within my mind. I even think it has helped me feel motivation to continue writing many times. Maybe you'll gain something from what he is saying also.

D3: #Novelpi ~ Today was a Notebook day!

2011-09-03T07:41:00.001-05:00

Day 3 of #Novelpi was a notebook day. I ended up needing to use my trusty pen and paper to come up with some notes and thoughts for a miniature word count of 320. I am glad to be recording and putting my ideas down on paper though!

I've been working on practicing writing some health articles so here are a few thoughts from my notes:

Have uplifting thoughts about my body and realize it as a miracle!

Remember to stay active for inactivity brings weakness.

As I am healthy in my eating habits, my family will benefit from naturally gaining a desire to maintain their health as well.

Many times, we know what we need to do to maintain our health but it is hard to do alone. Often, it really benefits to receive help from others but before they would know to help us we need to simply ask them.

My friend, Delores, told me her daily affirmation and I like it so I'll share it with you:

Today is the first day of the rest of your life. What are you going to do with it?

D2: #Novelpi ~ Making Progress

2011-09-02T07:13:00.000-05:00

During Day 2 of this challenge with Novel Push Initiative, I felt a complete rush of wanting to write and create. I wish I could have spent a lot more time writing. So my word count today isn't bad at 1041.

Here's a couple of excerpts from my writing today:

First, Colby's story is starting to really take shape:

Red feathers swirled around slightly turning pink and making Colby feel sick to his stomach. Each day wasn’t easy transforming from cardinal to himself again but he understood now without question the importance of doing so. It was vital to be able to communicate with the Cardinals and their world. Colby sensed that it would make a difference, in time. His patience crept along slowly like mud waiting for more water to be able to move along faster.
“In time,” he thought, “our world would be renewed and vivid again as in the tales of old.”
How Colby longed for this change to actually happen even though his faith dwindled that he would live to see this time happen. For now, it was a nice dream.

***
Second, I recently joined SparkPeople again in an effort to maintain my healthy living. I wrote a blog there about my first bike race if you'd care to read it!

A Comfortable Poem

2011-09-01T06:36:00.002-05:00

Comfortable

gathering by the side of a stream

silently sitting there

together

side by side

As the rush of water

tucks emotions into corners of our minds

hoping to wash away

the bleak

empty restless spaces

our mind forms at times

from the sullen and the free

Will you comprehend me?

Most importantly

triumphantly

we were meant to be

friends

as comfortable as can be.

*written for #Novelpi (Novel Push Initiative) Day 1: 607 word count. Check out 5-rings for more information on NPI. I'm participating in this challenge for the next two months and so I plan to update you on my progress hoping you'll enjoy any of my writing tidbits that will come out of this. Thanks for reading!

From Barbie to Rapunzel: Persona Poetry (thoughts from #poetparty)

2011-06-18T11:04:00.009-05:00

Imagine, if you will, what would a conversation be like between Barbie(tm) and Rapunzel? It might be interesting, right?!? Well, from the place of your own imaginings of that conversation gives a little insight into what I'd like to share with you today.

On Sundays, I look forward to the twitter chat called #poetparty. As I have followed this chat, I have learned so many ideas, thoughts, and basic knowledge on poetry. I also feel that I catch a unique glimpse into the minds of poets. Not only has it strengthened my desire to write poetry but also wamt to learn poetic forms and to read more poetry as well. Of course, it helps with my love affair with words too. I can't help but be inspired!

This past Sunday, June 12th, the #poetparty chat was on Persona Poetry. When I first heard about this topic, I realized I didn't understand the full meaning of what they meant by this term. Call me old-fashioned but I first consulted my rare 1980 Edition Funk & Wangnalls Desk Dictionary, which is one of my favorite dictionaries, where persona is defined as

A character in a drama, novel, etc... [L, person]

After this, I asked people around me, i.e., my husband & oldest daughter, for their insight into what they thought persona poetry might be which became a nice discussion on the idea that it would mean for poetry to be considered reflective and who would be characterized as the voice of the poem.

Next, I searched Google, as most do nowadays and found this description:

The speaker or voice of a literary work, or in plainer words, "who's doing the talking."

I enjoyed his idea of how it is applied to the poem in a nuetral sense.

Another basic idea of persona poetry is not to confuse the narrator or speaker of the poem with the author. For this type of poetry, the poet is imagining what it would be like to write a poem as someone or something else. Many examples were given such as writing in the form of a film/movie character, pop culture character, natural elements like flowers, trees, etc... There are many types of 'persona's' that a poem can be written in. The consensus was that quality mattered with this type of poetry. If a persona poem is well done that it is worthwhile to enjoyably be read.

One of the examples brought to light right away in the discussion was a poem being written in Barbie's voice. This caught my eye and I thought it was funny because to me Barbie is more than a doll, she's a character that I created in my mind when I played with her as a young girl. For hours, I used to play Barbie dolls making elaborate story lines all with set and costume design included. In my mind, Barbie can be anything she wanted to be which was usually right where I wanted to escape to in my young mind. So, for me she's not silly, or unintelligent but rather quite the opposite of that. So, honestly, I don't have a problem with Barbie being written into a persona poem. I am among the minor in this category, dare I admit this though, but I feel I can find value even in the most unexpected people or places. Key point is if I'm being willing to learn, for myself at least from them, anyway.

I wrote a prose piece from the mind of Barbie which I'll share with you here:

From the mind of this girl, I feel alive. She makes me live within her. I am somebody. It's not about how I look or what she even dresses me in. It's about the moments that she makes me feel successful. I am not just her doll but her dreams. I feel a connection each time she opens her closet where I exist and she lets me live. I feel real. I need to talk with her to let her know what she's brought into my life. I feel her communicating with me. I say the words that she longs to tell anyone who would listen. I am listening. I love her ideas on something special. I can't deny that I'd miss her if she ever went away. Most girls her age, no longer care for me or even have time to play with me anymore. She hides from the world to do so because her love is so great for our story line. I've been living her movie. I wouldn't trade it for another realm. I see from her mind what she could be. I am what she is afraid of - perhaps that is even being famous. Her definition of success is actually quite simple which makes it lovely. I love her kind heart and this make-believe world we live together. In time, I know it will end. Perhaps, it will be time to grow up and I hope she'll have the opportunity that came in her dreams. If I can let her feel, even briefly, that those dreams can be real I've done what I hoped to as her doll. Most of all, I want her to feel free to dream. In one day, she can really do all that we have had so much fun pretending. What she doesn't realize now, is how soon she'll grow up. It isn't far away. In her mind, I know we'll always be friends because her imagination holds her deepest desires and hopes. This means a lot. It is something I know she won't give up. I know in the way she treats me, holds me, dresses me. I am well-cared for so others in her life will be too. I am glad to have this glimpse into this girls heart. I am happy that she treats me as her friend. I like the characterization that she evolved for me. I will be the part of her memory that she may turn to when times become rough. I've been here for her. She knows this and in this way - the beauty is all of ours to share. Stay with your dreams - dear girl!

***
Another persona piece that I realized that I had written was a square dance motif that I wrote as a book review for Rapunzel's Revenge by Shannon Hale. See what you think here. I'm biased but I rather liked how it turned out. Aren't you curious now? ;)

Now, there's a little insight into persona poetry. I've realized now that I like it and want to write more besides I think I have used persona poetry more than I realized in the past. Let me know what you're thinking about it or share one of your favorite persona poems in the comments. Thanks!

NaPoWriMo #30: Epic Evanesce

2011-04-30T10:17:00.001-05:00

Mysteries unfold
unraveling shadows
of dark mixed with light
creating a shadow
in my thoughts
concerning me
to ponder

Why you're coming back again
frightening me since I know
you never left my heart
I don't want to hurt
the way I did once
when you cast your fiery darts
my way

I need to find peace
without you
this is not the mystery
I expected
cast into the shadows
of my life
wondering what happened
in this unfortunate realm

Abounding weakness of my soul
not feeling courage
to conquer
or escape
love only deepens
a penetrating wall
meant to withstand
letting you in again

Find stillness
mimic peace
remarkable journey
trying to come away
but only realizing
how near I am to
complete devastation
ruin or chaos
because my heart won't forget
how you empower me
by continuing the beauty
held within your words

My memory beckons
as it has recorded
long since felt you near
as it never forgets
how to internally
shed a tear
contemplate
reverberate
reverence the fact
that I have the issues
you never did

I want to heal
when it hasn't been an option
for me
you feel whole
I feel broken
where I fool myself
into believing
upon the waters
I won't be swayed
rocking silently
into a watery grave

Breaking down
melting away emotion
long overdue to be
overcome by powers
yet to seek
discovered
in our tender friendship
relations joined through
knowledge alone
an evanesce of minds
power unconceded
form a tiny throne

A Kingdom

Our castle in the sky.

NaPoWriMo #29: Imperfect Rain

2011-04-29T11:22:00.000-05:00

I thought we were
in a place
where if you or I
told our true feelings
we could feel the difference
even if we felt offense

We could forgive-
move forward
to remain friends

But the rain came
and it could not
wash away the pain
guilt or sadness

I wish
the rain could heal
just like the earth smells
so clean
right after rain

Then we could start
over
begin again
bathed in our imperfections
and be blessed by

LOVE

again and forever.

NaPoWriMo #28: An Ode to Joan of Arc

2011-04-28T11:55:00.001-05:00

In the darkness
the stars sat still
amongst the sky

A horse adjusted his footing
breathing out
slightly whinged
Faintly
in the stillness
A soldier
had his head buried
between his legs
sobbing

An altered life
his would be forever
As his Captain
Sweet Captain
was killed

Never in his life
had he been inspired
as much as he had
when she would speak

He could hear her now
as a voice of thunder
in his mind
Rumbling
inside of him
He felt sick
He questioned everything
He trusted no one

Where would his life lead him now?

What would happen to her brilliant army?

Couldn't they see how courageous all of his fellow soldiers had been in the face of such devastating cruelty and war?

The fight needed to be fought
but was the price too high?

His questions
His thoughts
of her

What she did
would not stop
He felt his soul
had changed

He had to do what he could
to remember her now
because they would not

This would not be an easy task
as so many
felt she was evil now
but he knew
which gave his heart
a moment of peace
that the tale
of the great

Joan of Arc

would have to be told!

*More info. & photo found at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joan_of_Arc

NaPoWriMo #27: Light

2011-04-27T14:19:00.003-05:00

Light...

Only you-

Only me-

Wherein you have released light within me

Only you

will get it back

Only you

can immerge from the foundation

Failure to see

Failure to listen

Only love whoever I am

Do not accept as readily as you imply

Have you become intolerant of me?

Even so much that it hurts

Although there is still light in me

You will never see it

I have no choice

I sense this loss

responding only by having to move on

beyond your shadow

creeping up along

out of the night

finding a way

through to embrace my own soul again

to know

to learn the lucid secrets of the light

Only you

will not notice

as I rekindle again

essentially fire

resilient as ever before

because one truth remains

I am

Only me.

NaPoWriMo #26: Short & Sweet

2011-04-26T17:42:00.002-05:00

It is a big hill.

One should climb to the top.

Sit here.

Be still.

Remember and love.

Cherish and remind.

Hold on.

Don’t fall down or I’ll have to come tumbling after.

NaPoWriMo #25: Her Flower Garden

2011-04-25T16:44:00.000-05:00

Tiny droplets clung to the window
for a small second
then raced down unevenly
The rain felt comforting
Look at the crimson flowers
in her garden

Smiling
they would finally be watered
without her assistance
It had been a long series of events
that placed her in her new living arrangements
her miniature flower garden
had been one of those things
to do for her to make her feel like
she had a place here

Filling to the brim with
Wildflowers-
Lilies -
Roses-
Daisies-
Among her favorites
were her distinguished
and prized
Orchids

All these flowers combined
to create a spiritual
evolution
of beauty
intensified by each flower
simply magnified
and resilient
although these conditions
seemed harsh and unrealistic
which might make them fragile

Instead they grew
resisting opposing forces
and finding their own magical force
growing through cracks in sidewalks
or up from the rocky soil
and even lining the fencing
white pickets and all
forming a new way
making a mixed-up garden
seem complete
with even the tiniest of flowers
peeking through the edges of
larger flowers

This garden may only last
for a rare season
but for her
with death fast approaching
it was her season
to make them live
so that something would make her feel alive
and find a way to grow
in the toughest of circumstance

If anything else
would be so pleasant
the lingering scent
and floral beauty
would capture her heart
helping her soar to the heavens
where she would no longer want for a garden
as there it would be eternal
always appreciating
how much effort and work it may take now
to make her garden whole
lively
ever-blooming
before the sun dried up
each flower
crumpled to a new discovery
a rare complexion
of vintage proportions
found in a new way of looking
at what beauty means through
the form of a withered flower

So many lessons to learn
places to go
but her garden
was her solitude
after a life well-lived
this was her final resting place
or at least she hoped
for one friend
to plant flowers
upon her graven bed
Then even in death
she would smell the lingering scent
all the while
imagining the image
of how the flower looked like
from her perspective

To her, this simple garden
meant eternity...

NaPoWriMo #24: One Wish for Getting Old

2011-04-24T16:40:00.000-05:00

Using writing prompt: Write about how getting old is hard and tough...

When I am old and worn,
and there are days I cannot move as I once did.
I am hopeful,
I will still remember all the things I ever loved,
all of the activities I loved to do.
I'll do only what I'm able now
thinking as I always did of my
shining love for others.
I may not be able to do
what I'm used to doing which will bring
frustration.
I believe
my glorious spirit will be still the same.
I'll long for youth that I did not keep
myself so busy that I did not reach out to others.
Perhaps, I'll feel regret.
I worry that
you will look upon me differently.
I may become a stranger.
Please look real hard and deep inside
you may feel my presence within.
Most of all, don't forget me,
don't neglect my spirit
somewhere deep inside, it has
one wish
which will be all I'll ask of you,
my dear young man...
Bring me His precious Sacrament
of my Savior, Lord and King.

Have a very Happy Easter!

NaPoWriMo #23: Time and Space

2011-04-23T23:48:00.001-05:00

Mystical space

vast and open

creeps upon the shadow of free time

tells us of eternity.

Yet, when people achieve an opportunity to fly

into the universe, we call Space

they do not feel alone.

Time is perchance, an illusion

although we follow it

we live by it

to the fact that it can control,

even run, our lives.

And yet in our moments of time

here on earth,

we can feel ever so alone.

NaPoWriMo #22: Choose to Love

2011-04-22T17:06:00.002-05:00

I sometimes feel like I am a no-one.
As if it is easier to loose my friendship
than to gain it or desire to keep it.

Just walk away
She's not worth it anymore
She doesn't deserve my love

As if love is something that you can change,
give up,
or have conditions upon.

What is a real friend anyway?
Who is this?
Don't we all get hurt?
What is she to you?

Can't everyone feel
lost
lonely
confused
at any given moment.

In the end,
after losing my friend,
I can only hope
that I am not the monster
others may see
but I know who I am,
who I want to be,
even if it's buried deep within me.

Today, I may feel like I am a no-one.
Tomorrow, I will still
choose to love.

NaPoWriMo #21: Evoke

2011-04-21T10:49:00.002-05:00

Diversity is needed to

teach us tolerance.

Can we love and not hate?

Can we see without blindness?

Evoke, our feelings -

Difference

makes life fun

Interesting.

NaPoWriMo #20: Control

2011-04-20T13:44:00.005-05:00

Even though many do not
I must conrol my temper
somehow
some way
since it takes energy away
I don't want to let go of
I'd rather feel I could start
all over again

Control

It seems simple
It's one of the hardest things
especially when you feel so much
Is this normal?
It seems so random
bits of small frustrations
makes for so many complications

Control

Can it be done?
Reach a point of self-mastery
I've seen it in others
not in myself
It's a struggle
until the end

Control

How much do we really have in this world?
Only sets of experiences
basic obervance
tells us of other choices
affecting us
repeat circumstances
always come to happen
often it feels like
déjà-vu

Control

I want it to be part of my heart
yet utterly it feels like chaos
choices apprehend
driving madness
forcing defeat
in some small way
regaining courage
to keep trying
maintaining a foot hold
on part of the path

Control

the intuition of the heart serves
as a healing stone
a helping aid
some semblance of control
revisited through a mechanism
finally
partly being tamed.

NaPoWriMo #19: Coffee Shops

2011-04-19T14:29:00.000-05:00

It seems ridiculous that I like coffee shops
when I don't even drink coffee!
But it's true!

I like the smell of coffee
I enjoy the fact that I always
dream up something to write
while I'm in the shop.

I enjoy saying "Hi"
to people who might be there
catching a tiny thread of a conversation
echoing a glimpse of their reality
Or observing someone sitting quietly
I feel relaxed.

I do enjoy a good cup of hot chocolate
Or an icy Italian soda
even a bottle of water
they don't even mind-
"May I interest you in a cookie or desert?"
"Perhaps this one time."

Smiling ~
looking for the familiar faces
of my writing group
always a chance to learn
and join in the fun
as you read where their writing takes you
all within the bounds
of the coffee shop.

After all, it doesn't seem so silly now-
Instead, it feels a part of my nonsensical
authentic
writing life.

NaPoWriMo #18: Release

2011-04-18T13:30:00.000-05:00

If only
I felt comfort enough
so I could release
all my innermost
wants
desires
needs
through poetic words
that I love so much
so deeply
pain
released in ease
of conversational poems
reclose in grief
Still needing closure
I need to come free
although undone
I feel better
after a few rounds of words
poetically spoken
in want or desperation
Still, I ache for more.

To feel most beautifully alive means to be reading something beautiful, ready always to apprehend in the flow of language the sudden flash of poetry.

~Gaston Bachelard (1884–1962), French scientist, philosopher, literary theorist. "A Retrospective Glance at the Lifework of a Master of Books," Fragments of a Poetics of Fire (1988, trans. 1990).

NaPoWriMo #17: Pictures of You

2011-04-17T18:13:00.004-05:00

Pictures of you

are in my head

beautiful

priceless

exisiting

as a memory born

for all time

never to be forgotten

always

to be recalled

as if by magic.

***

Beautiful inspiration:

Pictures of You by The Cure - Live in Wembley Arena in '91

"Love, by reason of its passion, destroys the in-between which relates us to and separates us from others. As long as its spell lasts, the only in-between which can insert itself between two lovers is the child, love's own product. The child, this in-between to which the lovers now are related and which they hold in common, is representative of the world in that it also separates them; it is an indication that they will insert a new world into the existing world. Through the child, it is as though the lovers return to the world from which their love had expelled them. But this new worldliness, the possible result and the only possibly happy ending of a love affair, is, in a sense, the end of love, which must either overcome the partners anew or be transformed into another mode of belonging together."

~Hannah Arendt (1906–1975), German-born-U.S. political philosopher. The Human Condition, pt. 5, ch. 33 (1958).

NaPoWriMo #16: Balletomane

2011-04-16T15:41:00.000-05:00

He stands straight with
a practiced firmness,
Softly a melody begins,
now he performs.

Every step precision
carefully unites with music
telling a story
in vibrance of color.

Movement
perfectly molded-
the definition of the soul.

Embraced together as one.

He is a dancer,
a ballet dancer.

***

*Balletomane - as defined in Webster's Dictionary means: a devotee of ballet-a person devoted to ballet-a ballet enthusiast.

My inspiration:

Stuttgart Ballet Kameliendame Male Solo Marijn Rademaker

I wrote this as a memory from within my own realm of experience and in recoginition of my cousin, Matt, who has studied ballet in Boston, Mass. Miss you!

NaPoWriMo #15: Honestly

2011-04-15T16:05:00.000-05:00

Honestly...

I'm not a very honest person
I don't tell everything about myself
to very many people
I'm embarrased
Or I just don't want people to know everything
there is to know about me.

Some things I'd rather cover-up
Or keep to myself
Once I met a magnificient person
who was different than me because
he was so honest with everyone.

You knew
You understood
what he thought or at least
you felt you knew.

So, I confided in him
As one person who could know me very well
because I was honest
since around him
He let me be that way
Loving truth
while gaining trust.

Somehow, I sabotaged it
certitude divided
now our friendship is messed up
sadly...

My soul exposed to him
he truly knows
yet communication has ceased
confined in limits
hurting me
freeing him
My soul feels broken
and
I miss him-

quite honestly.

NaPoWriMo #14: Mental Twist

2011-04-14T11:44:00.002-05:00

There is a pain

a twist inside

I don’t understand

buried deep within

I can feel it now

almost as if it were

hidden in the shadows

amongst tiny crevices

yet its twisted and creeps up

through my heart

spiraling, tingling

a hurtful sensation

physically sick

“Anxiety, they tell me

Calm your nerves.”

I can’t - -

I don’t understand why

I thought my life was going great

I thought I was easy going,

Even optimistic

What do you mean, I’m not?

“Medication, that’s what you need

Then it will go away

You’ll function again.”

I try, but it’s strange

and new - -

Actually, I can’t think

I feel

numb

Perhaps before I could

feel

but I’m forgetting about

before

All I know is

I just hurt - -

There is a pain

A twist inside

I don’t understand.

NaPoWriMo #13: Worthwhile Thoughts

2011-04-13T12:32:00.003-05:00

I wish you could know
feel the way I see you
I walk strong
I dig deep
infecting your mind with my insecurities
which you kindly help me realize
are not worthwhile thoughts
You refresh me to know
that I need not feel insecure
just worthy because of how much I try
working that I may be so precious
compatible with you
Open up to me
in time I’ll return the favor
I want to let you in but I resist too often
out of fear
As you respect and love me
I will do the same for you
I can’t control or help all I feel
I don’t want to either
***

NaPoWriMo #12: Amicable

2011-04-12T10:32:00.005-05:00

A gentle conversation
tender words
soft tone of your voice
pierces a depth in my soul
I was afraid anyone could reach
to hear you means so much
whimsical delight
I’ve needed this for a while
whether or not laughing settles in
I can’t think clearly
I can’t feel honestly
I scream at my depths
The empty parts
I trust you to
gently prod then wait
for me to fill
being amiable
I’m scared
you haunted me
you nurture me
take me away from my mundane world
If only for a little while.

***

Notes: amicable implies being well disposed; amiable is acting well disposed and amiable is commonly applied only to people - though sometimes it is used for occasions, while amicable is not applied to people at all but to human interactions and their outcomes; amiable first meant 'kind' or 'lovely, lovable' and amicable first applied to things and meant 'pleasant, benign'
from Thesaurus.com

This explanation of these words inspired me in writing this poem.

NaPoWriMo #11: Connect the Dots

2011-04-11T11:01:00.002-05:00

Now that our world
Is full of connectivity
How do we connect the dots
From mark to line
All of this technology
Can be confusing
Which can't always replace the humanity of being face to face
At times it seems it does
Feeling as real as being there
Bridging the gaps between
What otherwise might be overlooked
Other times loneliness might feel more severe
When no one seems to acknowledge
What you care about
Other things unexpected
Do not go unnoticed instantly
As feeling, showing, being
Take on new meaning
We're wide open yet very close today
In this vast world
Making it seem smaller
Through dialogue
Than ever before
By perception of script & thought
Becoming absorbed
Into cyber space
Dotting the world
With shared minds.
***

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

NaPoWriMo #10: Wedding Cake

2011-04-10T11:09:00.000-05:00

Wedding cake
Slice by slice
Eaten up

First serve the bride
Then the groom
Set in beautiful motion
Their happiness doth contain
The sweetness of the cake

As served to the wedding guests
Did you chance to get a piece?
No, I did not.

I remember it was pretty
Didn't you?
Yes, I loved the cake.

Reminisce about the cake you had
Or the one you hope for
All serve a purpose
In the way of dreams

Take off the top
Set aside
Keep it for a frozen year
Yet most do not
For after three long months
They want this memorable cake
Can't stop thinking about
The flavor
Or the frosting
Wondering if it will last a year
So, unable to resist temptation
Eventually
They'll eat it too.
***
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

NaPoWriMo #9: Told In Three Words

2011-04-09T09:14:00.001-05:00

Certain circumstances conceal

Helping hearts heal

Resting red robin's

You yourself yawning

Seeing suffering stop

Letting lies live

Envious eyes enamored

Rising remembrance ruins

***

Being both beautiful

Of outstanding onset

To tell tomorrow

Happiness has happened

***

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

NaPoWriMo #8: Everyone Deserves a Love Poem

2011-04-08T00:24:00.002-05:00

Mystified by beautiful elegance
Vanquished at times shed through tears
Magnified by the sheer mystery of the dance
Somehow one finds a way
To a heart that is pure

Within these heavenly hearts
Love is captured
Ever needed
Found so lovely
As a heart that
Loves

Each has a shining moment
That we feel
Or we dare to hope
That there is an
Us

Forever speak
Gentle words of wonder
Piercing effortlessly
Like a cupid's comfortable arrow
Binding one heart
To another

In these tender moments
An unspeakable gift
Unstoppable emotion overtakes
Those beautiful hearts
As they become
Ever continued

Eternally united
to the magical realm
Of possibility
To reason with the heart
Reaching avid desire
Completed true love

No matter who you love
One reason
Honestly matters
Where magic tells
That everyone deserves
A love poem

Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

NaPoWriMo #7: My First Haiku

2011-04-07T06:04:00.004-05:00

Majestically pouring over rain

As a waterfall greets

Midnight comes into the dawn

***

Photo credit (by my nephew) found at:

http://theos-kengen.deviantart.com/gallery/?offset=24#/d3bco2i

NaPoWriMo #6: A Double Feature - Rare Beauty & A Siren's Duet

2011-04-06T04:31:00.006-05:00

*Note: Today, I'll present to you two poems. A Double Feature. One poem that I've completely written myself and another that was a spontaneous effort on Twitter that I wrote with Mr. Lewis(a.k.a. @Mr_Perphekt). I liked the way it turned out so I wanted to share it with you in its full-length version. I've included his information so be sure to look Mr. Lewis up. Perhaps, you'd like to follow him where he can be found online. His written lines will be in quotes & my written lines are regular form. I hope that will help you to see who wrote what. Neither poem is related one to another. They are both ultimately random happenings. Thanks so much for reading today.

***
Rare Beauty

From within the room,
I stared as a gem of rare beauty walked in.
Often I wondered about him and
What his feelings truly were for me.

I knew how much I cared for him.
I deeply wanted him to know.
It was plutonic yet I longed to be close.

As I searched his eyes, I wanted to see into his soul.
I knew we could be friends if only
He knew I understood his pain, his love
And if this friendship would be
allowed without restraint from others’ feelings.

Somehow, I knew him already from afar.

Suddenly, as if no one else was in the room
I felt him near me – standing there.
He kissed the top of my head.
Had I imagined it?
No, I felt the warm sensation, I was sure.
He softly turned and left my side gently –
without words.

I ran after him to say something, anything -
but there were no words big enough
for this gesture that had changed me.
I gave him a hug and we said our goodbye’s –
until we meet again.

Now in my dreams I still wonder about him
And what he might be doing
And if we can be friends
But this time I feel
I know
Like a gem of rare beauty
He cares for me too.

***

Poetic duet w/ Mr. Lewis (@Mr_Perphekt)[4/5/11] http://twitter.com/#!/Mr_Perphekt
http://acevloon88.tumblr.com/

A Siren's Duet

The brilliance of stars ~ shooting across the skies ~ also ~ cannot be hidden

Brilliance~in your eyes I try to hide~From emotions~Cast into the darkness~Sunk like in the ocean

In this ocean~one can feel the vast depth~endless torment or glory~never to tell~all its secrets

All consuming~Glory~Personified by mermaid song~Dark rhythms~control the tides even flow

In stillness~first notes of a mermaid's song~beautified movement of tide~seemingly waving thru shadows~of each wave

Crest rise~Shielding mermaids prying~eyes~Addicted song~Like sirens~Fight against the rocks n waves

As if floating~away from haunted song~fear drives to souls~weeping~wishing~for mermaids not to go~with the sea~come back to me

Haunted songs~Linger in minds~Driving souls crazy from human confines~Ship sails aimlessly~Across the cryptic~Sea

Travel rough&worrisome~unknown destination~songs enter voices~among human confines~to sing~for long freedom~across a lonely sea

Long forgotten~Voices search the barren~sea~Chasing memories and ghost~Long forgotten humanity

powerful voices rise~echoing among forgotten ocean~yielding ghosts that torment~forgiving ones who seek~searching in hope

Tortured souls~Forever hating those~That dare intrude their misery~Hopeless n lostVoices echo pointlesslyAcross the jagged rocks

If only~a purpose could be known~daring not in vain~against redemption~swept up in agony~an eternal trip~must in desolation end
***

Photo credits:

Double Feature:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/26425820@N06/

Mermaid:

fanpop.com

Gemstone:

birthday-horoscopes.net

NaPoWriMo #5: Wild and Free

2011-04-05T00:05:00.001-05:00

I take more than I should from you
I keep you away from your never ending world
Together I see more than I ever did alone
This is beauty in all its complexity and truth
Help me walk through the guilt and anxiety
to overcome and stay in your presence
to taste your sweet seeds of friendship
that will grow wild and free
for my soul to harvest.
***

I found this quote on Twitter so I wanted to add it to go with this poem. One could say it was inspired:

All good things are wild and free. ~ Henry David Thoreau

NaPoWriMo #4: Sight

2011-04-04T01:20:00.004-05:00

On the sight of the peacock
green blue purple fluffy feathers
reminded the old man
of a time
he could see more clearly

To see is such a gift
more challenging
since not all seeing
requires eyes
as much as it does
a soul

At times, his thoughts produced
frightening episodes
that could not be seen
only felt

Unknown is his future
Unseen also
Unaware of what paths
he could take
or where he'll want to go

What he has seen
with his quiet eyes
unspoken
from dust
that echoes
refrains
left behind
in his memory

Gentle as peacock feathers
floating in the wind
he reminds himself

Hush, hush
be quiet
ever still
intently looking
all around
discovering peace
with his eyes

For what he sees
in the peacock feathers
his mind recalls
a time he could see
more clearly

Or so he felt nostalgic
from his perception
produced by his sight
on this particular day
held within a peacock eye

---

*photo by Daniel Fluck found at: http://www.colblindor.com/2007/06/13/colorful-peacock/ and here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/57065621@N00/1917355413/

NaPoWriMo #3: Imperfection

2011-04-03T00:03:00.002-05:00

Carefully, look inside
a glass darkly
as a moment is gone
missing out
selfishly
not letting go
giving in
to malevolence
one final time
all the while
being indignant

Swallowing me up
to where aching grows
like weeds after rain
in expectation
no longer requiring
to be around
accordingly

Be attentive
Become accomodating
or willingly
lose yourself
in that moment
of imperfection
sweetly speculating

Will this be torment?

NaPoWriMo #2: Under Fire

2011-04-02T00:02:00.000-05:00

In the trenches
under fire
the only thing
to cling to is a memory
although vague
while fading quietly
as the rain falls
washing you away

I wish
the pain would leave
instead
If I could bury it
in the trenches
deep
so deep
where it is hard
to feel hurt
question the loss
of one always to cherish

Even as the clearest
memory fades
or the pain subsides
into the fire
consumed
gone
until only
ash remains.

NaPoWriMo #1: Other Than the Truth

2011-04-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

Balancing courage
on the tip
of insight
does not help
overcome overwhelming perspectives

Look deeper
sometimes thinking
true is not actually true

Often truth is
reality before eyes
in what a person
actually does every day

Not what they are doing
or wanting them to do
more than that

Looking deeper
what is seen
they are doing
a lot more
than ever realized
could be done

Look away
never see the truth
for what it really is
missing out
on lovely beauty
enchanted
by what the person
has to give

Caught up with pride
failing to see
hear
or feel
how indeed
actions
thoughts
deeply hurt others

In the end
beware
of false insight.

Once Upon A Time...

2011-03-31T08:20:00.001-05:00

there was a little girl who fell in love with words. She wanted to learn as many of these words as she could, she wanted to learn what they meant, she enjoyed manipulating them into different forms - creating poetry, stories, lyrics and even Art. If she could find a pen, she would write them down on almost any surface. Mostly, she filled up notebooks & kept filling them up.

If she didn't find time to write them down they spilled into her thoughts. Daydreaming words into all kinds of glorious ideas of what she could say, how she could write it in a way that others would love to read. Although, she was known as a young girl, as being painfully shy she knew the truth inside of her because words had always been her truest friends. Words turned into stories and her most favorite would be the poems that came too. These stories always brought characters patterned after her obervations and discussions with others. During her play time, she rehearsed many of these stories as she staged plays with her Barbie dolls cast as the perfect actresses.

She also payed attention to the elderly through service and kinds visits to those living around her. On her favorite afternoon, she would talk to her Grandma as much as possible, since after all, Grandma was the oldest writer she knew, about writing and the characters that her Grandma was working on in her books. Even now, she can't remember all of the conversations now but she realized how Grandma inspired her. Besides writing, yet it fit perfectly in her plans to keep writing, she also looked up to her Grandma, who was such a happy, positive person. She exemplified how to treat others kindly, how to be social and how to work hard. She reflected on this many times now since these simple conversations, board games & even writing sessions together.

Her goals have never ceased and seeing them on the path in front of her but she felt that she had not been reaching in the right places or high enough. In her delicate heart, she would like to change that route now. For through her feelings, at least writing some of these thoughts down helped her start with that. After all, she needed a place to start so that she could feel like building a castle. With poetry month coming up, this will be as good as any. Once a day each day. Write a poem. She would like to share with you a bit about life, sorrow, history and wittingly hopes that you gain a sense of the person that she is and what she tries to live to be each day. So, hopefully you will find more good than bad and perhaps that will help you understand how much this dear girl loves people and what she sees in her everyday observations. These are her dreams and desires, she may fall short but perhaps someday you will know what she was all about anyway. You see, long ago, in an elementary school far, far, away, she started writing in her free time as even as soon as in the third grade. Experimenting with words, as she liked to think of it. As time became years she started to feel more confident in her writing. So, in sixth grade, she wrote a poem about the Cherokee Indians. She had learned about them in school and wanted to express from her heart what they went through.

Can you guess who this little girl represents yet?

Yes, even myself and the purpose of this fairytale is to let you know a little bit of my background as a writer and as a poet. I have long since misplaced and lost the original poem but that single experience still means a great deal to me. I remember how it felt to win an honorable mention for it. How incredible it was! How much that made me feel that somehow I may have brought an awareness to people's eyes about the Cherokee "Trail of Tears." I want to keep that up and I have a little here and a little there. I will continue in that regard. I will write. I am a poet. I am an Artist too. This is me. This is truly who I am. I hope you believe.

Get Ready, Get Set, Go April!

2011-03-29T08:06:00.006-05:00

As many of you know, April is one of my favorite months of the year. One reason is that it is National Poetry Month! I celebrate this by carrying a poem in my pocket, reading poetry, writing poems, going to poetry readings, entering poetry contests, and this year I'm going to do what I've been wishing to do for a few years now. I'm going LIVE! Right here at J-Flamingo Reflections. One poem every day for the month of April. Wow! It will be a challenge, of course, but I'm excited I'm finally up for it. I'm going to plunge in and actually make sure this happens this year. I hope you'll enjoy reading what I have to share this year. Also, my book reviews will be reflecting the poetry books I'll be reading as well. So I hope in some way during the month of April, with my humble attempts, you'll be exposed to poetry! One more thing, I've signed up to read one of my poems in the Talent Show at my church fundraiser this year so this will be one more way to celebrate poetry month. Be sure to vote for which poem that you'd like me to read by leaving a comment! Thanks! *Note-Bullwinkle Cartoon found at: russellheimlich.com

Poetry from My Purse - Finding the Miracle

2011-02-27T22:31:00.003-06:00

Here's a poem that I found written in my purse. A while back, I had explained that I would post these from time to time. I did tweet the first few lines as Micropoetry on Twitter recently and I thought it would be nice to include the conclusion. What do you think?

As darkening waters existed over my world
I hoped to find the miracle that could bring me in from drowning
To treasure me, keep me safe
Even if only by listening to me
It unloads my hurt
opens my soul
makes me vulnerable
makes me love
I like the way that feels
Don’t leave my life
Don’t stop calling
No matter what you think
I may say
I’m here for you
The truth remains
through your presence
you brought me joy
and saved me from drowning.
***

In the Meantime...

2011-02-17T09:12:00.005-06:00

I've been working on several articles, writing projects and a scrapbook project too. Also, I have a lot going on, as everyone does, in my real life that has had my time so my poor blog has taken a hit from my attention. I have several posts in mind but haven't put them up yet. I'll get to it, eventually. So, just to let you know I'm still around I thought I'd put up a few quotes from the movies my children have been watching lately.

Monsters vs. Aliens:

News reporter: Once again, a UFO has landed in America, the only country UFOs ever seem to land in.

Whatever mad scientist made you, he went all out.- Dr. Cockroach

This place is an X-file, wrapped in a cover up and deep fried as a conspiracy. There will be no contact with the outside and there never will. -General W.R. Monger

I don't want a poster, I want a real kitten, in a real tree. -Susan

Don't think of it as a prison, think of it as a hotel you never leave because it's been locked from the inside. -General W.R. Monger

The President of the United States: Somebody think of something, and think of it fast!

The Incredibles

A simple Thank You would suffice...

Helen: E, it's great to see you, but I gotta tell you, I've got no idea what you're talking about.
Edna: Yes, words are useless! Gobble-gobble-gobble-gobble-gobble! Too much of it, darling, too much! That is why I show you my work! That is why you are here!

Mr. Incredible: No matter how many times you save the world, it always manages to get back in jeopardy again. Sometimes I just want it to stay saved! You know, for a little bit? I feel like the maid; I just cleaned up this mess! Can we keep it clean for... for ten minutes!

Dash: That was the best vacation ever! I love our family.

Rick Dicker: We've frozen all of Syndrome's assets. If he even sneezes, we'll be there with a hanky and a pair of handcuffs.

Elastigirl: Settle down, are you kidding? I'm at the top of my game! I'm right up there with the big dogs! Girls, come on. Leave the saving of the world to the men? I don't think so.

Surf's Up

A winner is someone who doesn't knock me off my surfboard; Tank's definitely not a winner.
Little Penguin

I hope the cameras are rolling because you're gonna want to watch it over and over.
Cody Maverick

My brother was the big egg, I was the little egg.
Cody Maverick

Lani, we're in the shower! Ask me whatever you want.
Cody Maverick

Dude, she's totally into you! She called you crap!
Chicken Joe

Tank needs fuel.
Tank Evans

You know, we've known each other way back since, like... yesterday, I think it was.
Chicken Joe

My reason behind this is because I love to hear the words written in the dialogue. It helps me giggle and dream about being on a writing team for one of these movies. Wouldn't it be fun to write a movie script? I imagine how fun that it would be to sit there with a group of fellow writers and banter out a script! Well, maybe it's not really like that, I don't really know, but I can dream. Plus, I'm starting to gain a small sense of that through Twitter. It's a rich source for the writing, music, Arts and poetic communities. I've met some wonderful minds through the thoughts that these people are sharing there. I enjoy following many people and there is just something about those 140 characters that I love! No more...it just fits with my creative mind, I think. Anyway, it's helped my writing a tremendous amount and I'm crazily writing every chance I get now. For that, "I'm eternally grateful."
Also, if you have a few moments, check out my articles here on Matchbox Twenty Plus to read what I've been doing in the meantime...apart from not keeping up with my blogging.

Don't worry though..."I'll be back!" :D

Teaser Tuesday: The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle

2011-01-18T08:37:00.004-06:00

"Something rumbled somewhere deep and near. The tower trembled like a ship run aground, and answered with a low, stone wail. The three travelers cried out, scrambling to keep their feet on the shuddering stairs, but their guide pressed on without faltering or speaking."

pg. 154 in The Last Unicorn by Peter S. Beagle

Lessons while making Potato Soup and belated New Year's Resolutions

2011-01-16T22:22:00.001-06:00

Today, as I prepared dinner which was one of our family favorites, Potato Cheese Soup, I was thinking about blogging as I often do, believe it or not, so I knew it's about time I broke the ice on this blog and wrote something even anything! As many of you, I have been invaded by the business of living my life. So, anyway, here's a little update about my life currently:
I tend and care for my own children and I'm currently running a small daycare on the side. I have one full time little boy and several part time with Tuesdays and Friday's now being my busiest days. It has been such a learning experience for me in caring for these children but I am actually learning a lot from them!

During the week, it feels like I have twin boys as my son and the one I tend are the same age being only one month apart in their birthdate's. I have discovered a simple fact about children that I now realize can help with the dynamic of my approach to helping them grow up. A lot of times, it is traits that I sometimes find annoying in children that also tend to be wanted traits in people as adults. People who are driven, busy, high powered and make it possible to get things done around them seem to be desirable for being able to succeed. It's all about how I continue their approach to growing, learning and dealing with the problems children need to overcome. How I overcome a challenge is so much of the battle I face in my everyday life. Adjusting is necessary in so many of my situations. Finding the right adjustment to wield the power I have within me is important in helping development in a child. This has helped me and I give my best effort each day in small ways to work with each child I care for. Limits are set, consistent efforts and follow through are helpful, and a schedule. Each day I have a new opportunity to improve which I find, thankfully, I need to do this a lot. Starting a new day can be nice.
Another thing I have been doing this year is making an effort to write down my thoughts each day in a creative way using poetry, prose or through a story. I've found that I thoroughly enjoy writing micropoetry. This is often found on Twitter which means you are sharing poetry in 140 characters or less. I love this exercise which has challenged my brain and I feel it is fun!
Recently, a friend has encouraged me to write a novel in prose so this is a goal I've set for 2011 as well.
Another goal is to find a way for myself to get back to formal education. I'm enjoying looking into the opportunities that can be available to me but it will be a lot of hard work. I finally feel that I am ready for this challenge.
Also, I've been making huge efforts to keep my house tidier this year. I think I do better and life runs a bit smoother when I can feel better in my surroundings.
Last year, I did a lot of things and I'm sure that I acheived a lot but I didn't formally write out my goals out or even set them in a post as I did the previous year on this blog. So, I didn't feel I had anything to gauge my success with so in the end I feel I have missed out on that in 2010. This year, I want to see my progress and how much I grow so that's why I decided that it's better now than not at all to set some New Year Resolutions and I thought of all of this, and so much more, while making potato soup today.

Here's a re-cap of my goals this year:

1. Continue to maintain and improve my efforts in dealing with my children and others on a daily basis. Make efforts to connect with them.

2. Write down my thoughts each day using a creative method. i.e., poetry, haiku, short story, prose, essay, etc...

3. Write a novel in prose.

4. Find a way to continue my formal education.

5. Keep my house tidy. Clean and organize too.

6. Read 25 books and write reviews for each.

7. Learn and improve speaking in another language as I'm a bit familiar with Spanish and German but know neither very well.

8. Continue my blogs. Don't re-invent but continue each one to the best of my ability. Let's face it - I like each one too much to give it up entirely. Goal: 2 blog posts per week.

9. Work on staying in touch better with my brothers, sisters and in-laws. Simple acts of kindness through e-mail, letters, facebook, phone calls and blogs. Work on family history projects and see if they'd like to as well.

10. Continue to develop my artistic abilities in papercrafting, scrapbooking, and rubber stamping.

Teaser Tuesday: Going Bovine by Libba Bray

2010-12-14T07:48:00.003-06:00

Hosted by: MizB of Should be reading
*Anyone can play ~ Find your current read, share a quote from a random page plus do tell what you're reading.
*Remember, you are always welcome to share your teaser in the comments as well.
*For more details be sure to look up how on the links above.

My teaser:

"So let me get this straight-we're guiding our path based on a matchbook cover?" Gonzo asks.

~Going Bovine by Libba Bray pg. 146

Top Ten Tuesdays: Favorite Places To Read (Or Maybe Not) Plus a Wish

2010-12-07T08:49:00.005-06:00

I enjoy the Top Ten Tuesday days hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. I haven't participated in a while so I thought I would today. The topic is Favorite Places to Read and since I read pretty much everywhere I thought this would be fun to consider all of those places. I'm going to add, Or Maybe Not, because there are a few places that although I have read in that location they aren't my favorite places to read. I'll explain as I go along. Also, I've added, Plus a Wish, which is a place that I haven't read yet but I would like to someday.

Favorite Places to Read

In my big puffy recliner chair is my ultimate place to read but I don't mind any comfortable armchair or couch either.

In front of a captive audience which is usually my kids for now but I hope that when I'm not so busy I'll be able to volunteer to read to children wherever I'm needed.

At the library, although I tend to get distracted easily there because I can't limit myself to reading from just one book.

In a bookstore sitting on one of their chairs or I have been known to sit right on the floor reading away a few minutes.

In a cafe sitting at their cute table and with a cup of hot chocolate it's even better!

On a big rock settled by the lake that I happened to find just sitting there waiting for me after a 2.5 mi hike up the mountain - yes, I really did enjoy this recently, can't you tell? It's a known fact for a fishing trip, my husband fishes and I read.

At the beach even if it's sandy, I like the feeling of being outside by the water. Even by a stream or a river will have the same effect.

On a park bench while my children play happily at the park on a glorious day!

Or Maybe Not

In Moving Vehicles: (of course, using common sense I don't mean while driving!) - Although, I know I'll never learn and somehow I always do attempt to read on long road trips but I have found that it gives me a headache. This is where I'm very happy for audio books and although I have to make an effort to concentrate, in order to follow along, I've listened to some great books this way. Plus, you can drive and listen to an audio book safely.

In the Bath: Let's face it - I'm too afraid of dropping my book into the bathtub. I can't relax thinking about ruining the book which defeats the purpose of the bath, right?

In my Bed: Yes, my bed is comfy and I do read there but that's the problem. You see, if a lay down to read I inevitably fall asleep reading sooner rather than later.

Plus a Wish

On a beach in Hawaii comes to mind right away for a more dreamlike experience but for a more realistic version would be in a cozy bay window with lots of pillows if I had one. I suppose I could remodel but then that would take up my money to go to Hawaii.

In the end, it's about you as well. Where are a few places that you love to read? Or Maybe Not? Or Wish To? Feel free to let me know in the comments or join in and write your own post. I'd love to know what you're thinking!

Teaser Tuesday: A Doll's House by Henrik Ibsen

2010-12-07T04:49:00.005-06:00

Krog: What do you mean by that?
Mrs. L: You said you were like a shipwrecked man clinging to some wreckage.
Krog: I had good reason to say so.
Mrs. L: Well, I am like a shipwrecked woman clinging to some wreckage-no one to mourn for, no one to care for.

pg. 52-53, A Doll's House by Henrik Ibsen

Original manuscript cover page, 1879

Image from Wikipedia

Be In Touch

2010-12-06T07:19:00.006-06:00

Before Facebook or Twitter and before digital T.V. happened, I was a bit of an avid T.V. watcher with the local channels. I must admit that of all the channels I still really miss PBS the most and still make an effort to see some of my favorites from their shows online as they share them. I also was a fan of ABC's World News Tonight with Peter Jennings. I felt a uncomplicated sadness when he departed from this world in 2005 and from his anchorage on the news. His final sign-off still poignant in my brain because of its honesty and YouTube where I can view it and re-live that simple minute from time to time - "The journalist who doesn't value deeply the audiences loyalty should be in another line of work." I've not kept up with whomever is reporting now either. Since I was in high school, I was also a bit of a news junkie and interested in journalism in general. My Grandpa Hatch wrote human interest stories for a local station and I remember having conversations with him about different stories he thought about writing. I loved that he wanted to celebrate the goodness of humanity by writing the stories that should be told more often. So, as you realize, I basically used to enjoy watching the show 20/20 when Barbara Walters and Hugh Downs were hosting it. I enjoyed the stories they covered and always in anticipation I expected the closing line of the show: "We'll be in touch so you'll be in touch." I'm not sure why but that line was somewhat comforting perhaps because I knew that it was coming. For some reason, it caused me to reflect on what I would report from my own life and I felt even then that I needed to write down those reports. Sadly, I didn't always take myself up on that task. I'm still working on a remedy for when I fail to write because the truth is I do enjoy writing. I need to make it a significant part of my daily life and see where that leads me. I'm tired of missing out because I forget what's been happening around me because I didn't write a little something down. So, now's the time for me to change that and here's my way of making a come back to stay in touch with you.

We'll start in November where I had an excited and roaring start with NaNoWriMo only to fizzle out in the end toward an epic FAIL to make it to the 50K deadline. Even though I didn't make it, I'm still amazed with the writing I did do and what came out of attempting this goal. I was able to enter three poems I wrote into a poetry contest and I'm looking forward to seeing if anything comes from that. This definately helps me not feel like a complete failure and the writing I did does not feel like a waste of time at all. I'm alright with it and even like some of it. In fact, I look forward to my third attempt at NaNoWriMo next year. "Third times a charm," right?

Another significant thing that happened in Novemeber was the passing of my father-in-law, Melvin, on Nov. 9th. I still remember readng the text from my husband about it and feeling unbelief. Even though he was eighty-two, it felt so unexpected. I still remember reading his daughter Martha's facebook status when I heard the news: "Exactly one month to the day of my mother's passing, my father passed away. I like to think that it was because he was missing my mom too much." This affected me deeply and I can't explain it. Perhaps because I was looking forward to working with him on a family history project for his dear Clara. Since her death, he had seemed very urgent about it and I could feel his urgency but I didn't reciprocate it back to him like he deserved. I was worried about other non-essential things I realize in hindsight. His efforts to encourage and help me were huge and he fulfilled them right away. He wasn't waiting around, he mailed me what I needed to make sure that this project would happen. Now, I need to fulfill my end of the deal. I'm working on that including the grieving process. Most of all, even though I miss my parents-in-law, I am quite happy that they are together in heaven for their upcoming anniversary of 60 years of marriage this month. I'm learning the depth and scope of their lives and the difference they silently made in their efforts to help others as much as they could serve them. There are many things I hope to continue learning about their lives. I only lived close to them in the first four years of my marriage and I wasn't always as great in the gratitude department when I had that privelege. Looking back, I feel very thankful that they have been a part of my life and my children's lives. I know that we will continue to remember them.

Our birth is but a sleep and a forgetting:
The Soul that rises with us, our life's Star,
Hath had elsewhere its setting,
And cometh from afar:
Not in entire forgetfulness,
And not in utter nakedness,
But trailing clouds of glory do we come
From God, who is our home:
Heaven lies about us in our infancy!
Shades of the prison-house begin to close
Upon the growing Boy,
But He beholds the light, and whence it flows,
He sees it in his joy;
The Youth, who daily farther from the east
Must travel, still is Nature's Priest,
And by the vision splendid
Is on his way attended;
At length the Man perceives it die away,
And fade into the light of common day.

~William Wordsworth

NPI: FAIL plus Life, Death and NaNoWriMo Part 2

2010-11-01T13:54:00.006-05:00

October has now come by and went so fast. I signed up for the NPI (novel push initiative) but FAILed out after only 14 days. Honestly, I can't pinpoint one apparent reason I just crumbled. Since then I've kept up with my writing through poetry and plotting my next course for NaNoWriMo in November and a new editing job that I'll be starting too. Emotionally, listening to music has been my complete solace at this point. I'm so glad for that as it has been so helpful to me.
My mother-in-law passed away on Oct. 9th. She found out that she had leukemia on Sept. 27th. It infested her and her death came quickly for those of us that weren't by her side to help with her hospice care. I'm very grateful that I was able to attend her funeral. I appreciate the efforts of many who were able to help me be able to go. I will not forget their kindness. I still can't believe that Clara's gone some days but I am so grateful that I knew her in my life. I know I'll find this out even stronger in the months to come. Time, in its existence and as a healer is such a unique notion when it comes to death. For the first four years of my marriage, I felt close to certain aspects of Jared's family as I lived near my mother and father-in-law at the time and then our family was whisked away to TX where we've started again here. Clara always called to express her love to us and to remind us to write and share an experience with the family in the "Carter Chronicle." I hate to admit now that I wasn't always happy or excited about doing this. Now, I've come to understand how valuable the written word really is and that is it all we have left of our legacy when we die. As a busy young mother, writing these little stories are the only journal I kept during this time. Now, I'm franctically trying to find copies of these letters to piece this time of my life together for my own reasons and life history. This is what I remember most of my mother-in-law, her devotion to her faith and her family, her love and insistence that we stay in touch as a family. I hope we always will.

Clara holding my daughter Grace on her birthday in 2005.

Please forgive my possibly infrequent posts during Nov. since I'll be participating in NaNoWriMo and also starting to edit a huge document that I've undertaken and plan to do my very best job. I'll be around eventually. In the meantime, look up some of my poetry under the Pocket page and hopefully you'll enjoy it. I'll add more poetry as soon as I can since that is one thing I'm very consistent in writing.

NPI: Day 10

2010-10-10T23:53:00.003-05:00

Day 10 word count: 218, 11:55 pm CT, I'm really cutting it close but I've been edgy all day. I think this shows in my writing. I don't like what I wrote yesterday or even today but I did write something down so I suppose that it isn't a complete failure. I'll continue to do my best with the Novel Push Initiative exercise even though I will be traveling to my dear mother-in-law's funeral now. I have very mixed emotions as most anyone does in these times. I seem to feel a whole range of emotions and I have to deal with those. At times, this can work with my writing or against it. It's against right now. Words are not flowing or coming to me strongly. I need to clear my thoughts.

I'm sorry but I feel I don't have anything cool to share from my writing yesterday. Bear with me and I'm sure my muse will come back. Thanks!

NPI: Day 9

2010-10-09T22:29:00.002-05:00

Day 9 word count: 92, 11:39 pm CT, I'm sorry it's not in me tonight - I'm a jumbled mess but I feel it will come later. I'm not giving up just give me a moment.

Words from Day 8 -

Looking forward enhanced the beauty of the experience and that’s when I had seen the flower. Yet looking back in the windows of memory had helped control my frustration that a critical moment like this with so much destruction had delivered. This had been my whole world but now it was no longer.

NPI: Day 8

2010-10-08T23:56:00.002-05:00

Day 8 word count: 321, 11:41 pm CT. This was a bit tough to write through tonight. I admit it felt like an exercise that I wasn't super excited to do. I had wrote some things on a notepad earlier and felt it at that time but didn't finish until now so it lost its excitement for me. I should have taken the time to write more in that notepad. It reminds me that sometimes writing chooses me and I can't put it off.

A tidbit from Day 7:

A close bond formed without touch or even closeness only moments of brief conversation. Happiness in those moments were sweet. Better than candy, more like a strawberry. Still sweet but so much better for him in the end. This is what he would treasure now and cling to.

NPI: Day 7

2010-10-07T23:35:00.002-05:00

Day 7 word count: 324, 11:58 pm CT, sorry I didn't get this recorded in time. Frantically and honestly, I'm working through this scene which is tough to convey in the way I was hoping for. It's ok but I wish that it would feel differntly as I wrote it. Sometimes I'm amazed at how emotional I can be to my own writing and then other times almost detached. I'm really learning of what a process this is for me and it truly is nice to write things down. I'm starting to feel the breathing of writing. I love it!

A little something from Day 6:

She wasn’t strong enough now. She reached out in times of need to imaginary friends. Those that felt they would help her but that was a fantasy because their realities were skewed even more than the depths of her own. Unimaginable but realistic.

NPI: Day 6

2010-10-06T23:59:00.003-05:00

Day 6 word count: 336 11:44 p.m. CT

I'm squeaking in - whew - barely making it but I did!

Insight from Day 5:

It could be a coincidence but it is not an accident. It is in these moments that the power of purpose is felt. Lay down in the field of daffodil’s and feel a dream within you want to burst through the doors of your soul. The sun is comforting and the experience is rejuvenating. It will liven your spirit!

NPI: Day 5

2010-10-05T23:34:00.003-05:00

Day 5 word count: 537, 11:24 pm CT

I feels to me right now that writing can be such an emotional roller coaster. I've had so much on my mind that I've had to take the time to write it out. This feels like a break in my WIP but it seems necessary for my emotional well-being. In the end, I hope that these thoughts will help a future WIP in some small way. If not, it has been great creative writing practice.

A thought written from Day 4:

In the never ending years of dreams and living, one starts to realize that all we have to share with others is our time. This is what matters. This is what we all want and desire. To share time with others. A simple act of gathering together to share a meal and eat together does more than nourish the body, it enriches our soul. The basic need of eating coupled with the basic desire to spend time with others and feel loved is precious. This is why we must reach out. We must never ignore love. In the end, it is all we have.

NPI: Day 4

2010-10-04T23:58:00.002-05:00

Word Count: 456

Ok, so I'm frightfully close to the deadline tonight. I couldn't think of how I wanted the scene to work out. Then after talking to a friend, I realized I had to put to the written word what was really bothering me tonight. Once I worked that out, I was able to get some words to the page. Personal pain is important, even hard to deal with, but necessary to work through. Just like when I have a block, I just have to write through it. At least, that's what I hear works best and I hope that's the case.

A quote from Day 3:

More than he realized, he helped her too. She was too quiet to let this be known but her heart felt it. Secretly, she hoped that his heart felt what she couldn’t say. The few times that she had opened up would have to be enough for now. In time, things might be different.

NPI: Day 3

2010-10-03T22:32:00.003-05:00

Day 3 word count: 1020

I have to admit that I didn't expect this many words today. Cool! I feel I'm doing alright so far and I'm learning that I really need practice writing dialogue which is not coming naturally for me. I've been afraid of this for a while. I plan to just keep writing it, even if it seems bad, and hopefully that will be enough to push through and get used to it eventually. I do admit that I like the ideas forming in my current WIP.

Here's a snipit from Day 2's writing:

Lightly - ever so lightly - the rain fell upon the grass.
It watered each tiny strand
it refreshed the earth
to nourish it
and bring to life the effects of Spring
.

NPI: Day 2

2010-10-02T20:09:00.004-05:00

NPI(Novel Push Initiative) Day 2: 404 words, 7:22 pm CT, not too shabby today. :)

So far, so good. I wrote later in the day today which may happen on the weekends, I think. During the week, I'd like to stick to my morning writing routine. Today, I wrote more feelings from an idea racing around in my head. In the back of my mind, I hope to develop this into a WIP(work in progress) that I'd like to keep developing.

As promised, here's a tidbit of my writing from Day 1:

For when the heart is lonely, it is hard to feel anything else. She longs for the simple solution such as a phone call, a letter or could she dare even hope for the gentlest of an embrace. It almost feels like a frightened cat is tormented within her tortured heart. Musical lyrics come rushing back to soothe her angry soul. It will happen, one way or another.

NPI: Today is the beginning...

2010-10-01T08:50:00.004-05:00

of the Novel Push Initiative. I'm happy to have discovered this through Twitter and I look forward to participating. So far, so good as I'm off to a roaring start this morning by writing 884 words. My goal is 250 words per day and out of those words I just typed up about that many are most likely quality words so I'm feeling great for today already! Yippee! I'll be updating here and on Twitter on how I'm doing with this challenge during October. Perhaps, I'll share a few samples or teaser quotes as well.

I'm also happy to have found a wonderful writer and writing partner on Twitter, Shadow, who has really boosted my spirits during September. She has given me the confidence through her efforts of inspiring me so I felt that I could finally give a contest like this a try as well. Thanks so much, Shadow! I'll be looking forward to your encouragement!

Also, my friends Robin and Carrie have once again been coming to my Scrapbooking group and their encouragement for me to write is helping so much! Even just talking about writing has inspired my imagination too. Carrie is so sweet to text the word "write" to me once a day to prompt me to remember to do so - perhaps with something I said. Robin is an advanced writer and I just found out that she'll also be doing the NPI challenge too! This is going to be great!

Wow, all of this will definitely gear me up for NaNoWriMo this year! I'm looking forward to attempting this challenge that was so elusive for me last year where Erin was my hero with accomplishing that last year. And don't let her fool you, I think what she wrote last year during NaNoWriMo rocked! Way to go and meet your goals, Erin!

I'm also hoping to participate in another writing group again. I've missed that. I hope that it will go well. It may vary how often I can go because the times they will be meeting conflict a little with my schedule but I will make an attempt to go as much as I am able.

Writing equals happiness for me!

Writing quotes:

The act of putting pen to paper encourages pause for thought, this in turn makes us think more deeply about life, which helps us regain our equilibrium. ~Norbet Platt

It is necessary to write, if the days are not to slip emptily by. How else, indeed, to clap the net over the butterfly of the moment? For the moment passes, it is forgotten; the mood is gone; life itself is gone. That is where the writer scores over his fellows: he catches the changes of his mind on the hop. ~Vita Sackville-West

And by the way, everything in life is writable about if you have the outgoing guts to do it, and the imagination to improvise. The worst enemy to creativity is self-doubt. ~Sylvia Plath

So often is the virgin sheet of paper more real than what one has to say, and so often one regrets having marred it. ~Harold Acton, Memoirs of an Aesthete, 1948

The role of a writer is not to say what we all can say, but what we are unable to say. ~Anaïs Nin

Writing is a socially acceptable form of schizophrenia. ~E.L. Doctorow

Most of all, this is what I'm aiming for myself since I will be making every effort to write each morning:

Writing became such a process of discovery that I couldn't wait to get to work in the morning: I wanted to know what I was going to say. ~Sharon O'Brien

Top Ten Tuesday: Favorite Fictional Couples in Books

2010-09-28T09:48:00.005-05:00

At first, I wasn't sure I could think of very many fictional couples but it turns out as my mind wheels get moving this morning, I can! So, today's topic from Top Ten Tuesday at The Broke and the Bookish is Favorite Fictional Couples in Books. Here's my list:

1. Marianne Dashwood and Colonel Brandon from Sense and Sensibility - This is one couple that I root for right from the beginning as Colonel Brandon is introduced and I hope for Marianne to "see" him. There are a lot of ultimate couples(many will be naming one from P&P which I agree with too) in Jane Austen's works and that is such a credit to the way she can write about love, relationships and all of its natural complexities.

2. Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter Series - I loved the enchanting progression of this naturally unfolding relationship in the HP series.

3. Chris Nielsen and Annie from What Dreams May Come by Richard Matheson - This whole relationship is so complex and intricate which is hard to explain.

4. Mick Webber and Cara Jones from Pickup Games by Marcia Mickelson - This is a fun modern-day romance that might be unfolding at an office near you. So true to our day.

5. Sir Percy and Lady Blakeney from The Scarlet Pimpernel - A classic example of how much do we really know about the one we love?

6. Scarlett O'Hara and Rhett Butler from Gone With the Wind - One of my favorite, although confusing, relationships that made me feel deeply to tear me up emotionally.

7. Fred and Holly from Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote - I love the way the narrator (dubbed "Fred") slowly realizes how much he cares for Holly but her reaction to his affection may deny her what she had been looking for all along.

8. Forrest and Jenny from Forrest Gump by Winston Groom - I love the ideals that Forrest romanticizes about Jenny from the beginning but their relationship path was anything but an easy path. An example of how individual choices can affect love life.

9. Irene and Young Jolyon from The Forsyte Saga by John Galsworthy - After so much tragedy on both accounts, it's wonderful to finally have a unique and happy love relationship here.

10. Aragorn and Arwen in The Lord of the Rings - I love the whole triangle of Aragorn, Arwen and Eowyn actually. I liked all characters and felt I could feel what they each hoped for in love.

Teaser Tuesday(16): Between the Wingtips: The Secret Life of Birds

2010-09-28T08:23:00.007-05:00

My teaser:

Some egrets catch fish by spreading their wings, probably to shade the water surface to prevent distracting reflections - if you have ever tried to count your toes underwater when the sun is shining, you will know the feeling.

~Between the Wingtips: The Secret Life of Birds Photographer: Brutus Ostling Text: Magnus Ullman

My thoughts:
I love learning about birds! This non-fiction book is filled with photo's and information on a variety of birds. It's very beautiful!

Hosted by: MizB of Should be reading
*Anyone can play ~ Find your current read, share a quote from a random page plus do tell what you're reading.
*Remember, you are always welcome to share your teaser in the comments as well.
*For more details be sure to look up how on the links above.

One of my favorite gigs: Dewey's Read-a-thon Cheerleading

2010-09-26T22:38:00.003-05:00

“The greatest gift is a passion for reading. It is cheap, it consoles, it distracts, it excites, it gives you knowledge of the world and experience of a wide kind. It is a moral illumination.”

~Elizabeth Hardwick

It's coming up and time for one of my favorite gigs during the year. I love signing up for cheerleading those who read in Dewey's Read-a-thon. It's scheduled for Oct. 9-10 this year. It's a 24-hr. read-a-thon just like in the good old high school days when I did this type of reading marathon with my friends. Now, that I'm older with more responsiblities I'm only able to sign up as a cheerleader at this time. I do love to read the blogs and let them know that I'm rooting for them. Not to mention, I'm able to get a few more ideas for books for my ever-growing TBR list on Goodreads.

Go, readers, Go!

Top Ten Tuesdays: Favorite Book Quotes

2010-09-21T16:12:00.004-05:00

Ilustration by John Howe

How could I pass this one up?! I can't because I really love quotes especially from books! Head on over to The Broke and the Bookish to look at even more great quotes!

Here are some of mine and I'm sure that I have even more tucked away but 10 will be fine for today:

1. Marguerite suffered intensely. Though she laughed and chatted, though she was more admired, more surrounded, more f^eted than any woman there, she felt like one condemned to death, living her last day upon this earth. The Scarlett Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy

2. "We sit in the middle of the cafeteria, a fish bowl crowded with minnows,
guppies, tetras, mollies, and angelfish. Sharks circle their prey.
Lesser spiny eels bump their noses against the glass, looking for the
exit. Bits of fish flakes and strings of poop dangle in the air.
Lime-green algae slicks the floor." pg. 105, Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson

3. Pg. 21: He laughs again. Why does he do that? He is more curious than I am. "You're a tough critic, Jenna Fox. I create art because I need to. It's just something in me. Like breathing."
How can a pine serpent be in him? Especially one that will not last. "This will be gone by tomorrow." ~The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson

4. Algernon: I really don't see anything romantic in proposing. It ... is very romantic to be in love. But there is nothing romantic about a definite proposal. Why, one may be accepted. One usually is, I believe. Then the excitement is all over. The very essence of romance is uncertainty. The Importance of Being Ernest by Oscar Wilde

5. “You think I have no feelings, and that I can do without one bit of love or kindness; but I cannot live so: and you have no pity.” Jane Eyre
By Charlotte Brontë

6. “Well, for instance, when I left her today, she put her arms around me and felt my shoulder blades, to see if my wings were strong, she(Mademoiselle Reisz) said. ‘The bird that would soar above the level of plain tradition and prejudice must have strong wings. It is a sad spectacle to see the weaklings bruised, exhausted and fluttering back to earth.’” ~The Awakening by Kate Chopin

7. There's a kind of tenderness that's only possible in the predawn hours, a blue-gray, lonely tenderness that comes from dim lights and sleepiness and immense quiet. A kind of tenderness and a kind of hope. I've always found it hard to feel angry in the half-hour before the sun comes up, ....(pg. 187) ~Love Walked In by Maria de los Santos

8. ...the thing is you can get used to anything you think you can't, you
want to die but you don't, you can't, you just are Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott

9. It is not only the white man who breaks the sixth commandment…. Evil and ugly things have been committed against the will of God on both sides. The Light in the Forest by Conrad Richter

10. The Road goes ever on and on
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow, if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,
Until it joins some larger way
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien

*What type of quotation is your favorite? I love ones that are thought-provoking and give me a reason to commit them to my memory.
Thanks so much for reading my Top 10 today!

Teaser Tuesday(15): Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

2010-09-21T15:19:00.004-05:00

My teaser:

It was now the sweetest hour of the twenty-four:-"Day, its fervid fires had wasted," and dew fell cool on panting plain and scorched summit.

~Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte, pg. 279

My thoughts:

I found this book at a thrift store and I loved its vintage quality. Can you imagine paying only .45 as the going rate for this book at one time? On the inside, it seems that this book was printed in 1968. Plus, it's true on the cover as it's One of the world's great love stories.

Hosted by: MizB of Should be reading

*Anyone can play ~ Find your current read, share a quote from a random page plus do tell what you're reading.
*Remember, you are always welcome to share your teaser in the comments as well.
*For more details be sure to look up how on the link above.

Top Ten Tuesday: Top 10 Books I'm Dying to Read!

2010-09-14T13:14:00.001-05:00

Keep in mind that naturally I have a very loooooong TBR(to be read) list and it's a challenge to choose only 10 from so many choices. Plus, as a bonified bibliophile I'm always on the lookout for more! So, I'll put my Top 10 choices down of ones that have been on my mind recently.
Remember, if you'd like to read more Top Ten choices or participate in making a list of your own, check out The Broke and the Bookish for yourself.

1. Evermore by Alyson Noel - At times, all it takes is a little background information from the author herself to get you excited about reading a book! The only secret I keep/is immortality. ~Emily Dickinson

2. Clockwork Angel (The Infernal Devices, Book 1) by Cassandra Clare - I absolutely love the cover of this book! Plus, it is set in Victorian London and I love that era. Magic is dangerous--but love is more dangerous still.

3. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins - I'm sure I'm cheating a bit here because I've read about the first 5 pages already but I haven't had time to immerse myself in this book yet. I'm dying to see how things will end and I have to admit I'm a bit afraid of how it will turn out too. Whereas Katniss kills with finesse, Collins writes with raw power. -Time Magazine

4. Bink & Gollie by Kate DiCamillo and Alyson McGhee - I enjoy reading her books and so do my children. This fun new book is a collaborative effort and should come out later this month but it may take some time to get my hands on one. Funny, ebullient ... two friends, three adventures.

5. Murder at Mansfield Park by Lynn Shepherd - I've been hearing all sorts of great things about this book! As you know, I love Jane Austenish stuff so this is right up my alley. This is a superb retelling of the Jane Austen novel in which the house at Mansfield Park becomes the scene of one murder after another.

6. The Seventeen Second Miracle by Jason F. Wright - After I heard Jason F. Wright speak once at Time Out for Women, I've been a fan of his books. I look forward to this one! To the teachers who believed.

7. Beautiful Creatures (Caster Chronicles #1) by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl - I know very little about this book but I like the premise and the fact they collaborated to write it. So cool! In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything.

8. Riders of the Purple Sage by Zane Grey - I'm always so excited to start a new year of reading in a local Classics Book Group I attend. This is the first book choice of 2011. I happen to like Westerns once in a while and this seems like pure classic. Perhaps more than any other novel, contributed to the concept of the American West.

9. Lords of Finance: The Bankers Who Broke the World by Liaquat Ahamed - This book will most likely take me a long time to read but I hope that it will be very interesting. With penetrating insights for today, this history of the world economic collapse of the late 1920s presents unforgettable portraits of the four men whose personal and professional actions as heads of their respective central banks changed the course of the twentieth century.

10. Sophie Scholl and the White Rose by Annette Dumbach, Jud Newborn - Ever since I read The Silenced by James DeVita I have been interested about Sophie Scholl. I haven't found the time to read this version of her story yet and I'd like to. "We will not be silent! We are your bad conscience!" they exhorted the German people to stand up and fight for freedom.

Let me know what books have been on your mind and what you've been dying to read in your comment! Too bad, making and finding time to read all I want can be a complex project of itself but I'm content to keep trying! Eventually, I'll make progress, read and learn something in the process which makes all the difference. Reading is so worthwhile.

Also, if you're interested in book blogs like I am be sure to check out Book Blogger Appreciation Week going on this week! You'll find lots to read from these amazing book bloggers and enjoy reading their blogs in the process. Be warned: reading book blogs can become addictive! ;)

Teaser Tuesdays(14):Evermore by Alyson Noel

2010-09-14T08:58:00.005-05:00

My teaser:

"Normally, I'd do anything to avoid a place like this. A place so congested with the random energy of people, their bright swirling auras, their odd collection of thoughts."

My thoughts:

I had to choose this quote after feeling the crowd of people from last night's energy! You see, I feel so lucky that I was able to attend a book signing event at the BookPeople in Austin, TX. I heard Alyson Noel speak and hearing her story of how she came about writing this book convinced me to buy it! I hadn't realized that she would be there so I hadn't thought of buying her book. I can't wait to read it! It was so nice to meet her even if only for a couple of minutes. I love how she signed the words "peace*joy*love" in my book too. I wish everyone the same. Thanks for reading my teaser today!

Introduced to me by: Bookworm Barista
Hosted by: MizB of Should be reading

*Anyone can play ~ Find your current read, share a quote from a random page plus do tell what you're reading.
*Remember, you are always welcome to share your teaser in the comments as well.
*For more details be sure to look up how on the links above.

Journal Entry: Reflection of 9-11

2010-09-11T06:28:00.001-05:00

It’s hard to believe that it has been 9 yrs. since that fateful day. I don’t always realize it but I am still affected by the experience, by the emotion that seized me as I watched a plane dive into the World Trade Center on TV. At first, I was driving down the Interstate listening to the radio after taking my husband to work. I heard what I thought at the time was a commercial for a movie and I remember thinking “That sounds like a bad movie, I don’t want to see it.” At the end of the segment, it was repeated so it dawned on me that it was news not fiction. It worried me. I rushed home to watch TV news. Up to this point, I was curious how an accident like this with a plane could even happen. I had to find out so I trusted what was being said on TV. Safe in my home, I tuned in and in just a very few minutes another plane hit a second huge tower in New York. I was stunned. How could this be real? I already wished that it wasn’t. People - real people were dying even jumping to their deaths. It scared me. I was gripped with a feeling that I couldn’t shake that my husband would eventually be deployed to war. This was real. It wouldn’t be something that an American President would be able to ignore. Life around me was changing. Tears still well up in my eyes, even now, as I truly think of the magnitude of this day and what has happened in my life since which in comparison to those lost is insignificant. I will never forget.

*This picture above was taken when we welcomed our husband/dad home from his deployment in Iraq. (Nov. 2005)

Random Supplement to Words I Love

2010-09-09T15:45:00.006-05:00

On Tues., I filled out my top ten words which was so much fun to think about. Now, I've been seeing lots of words everywhere that I like. I also found more quotes to supplement the words I originally chose for my first list. So just for fun, here's a few of those findings:

Ability:

In a search for the words uncanny ability, it brought up a story about a cat who fortells death in a nursing home and funny piece from SNL from the famous Tina Fey portraying Sarah Pallin.

Persuasion:

"You have widely mistaken my character, if you think I can be worked on by such persuasions as these. How far your nephew might approve of your interference in his affairs, I cannot tell; but you certainly have no right to concern yourself in mine."
- Chapter 56, Pride and Prejudice, ~Jane Austen

“The universe, they said, depended for its operation on the balance of four forces which they identified as charm, persuasion, uncertainty and bloody-mindedness.”
~Terry Pratchett

“In a republican nation, whose citizens are to be led by reason and persuasion and not by force, the art of reasoning becomes of first importance”
~Thomas Jefferson

“Advertising isn't a science. It's persuasion. And persuasion is an art.”
~William Bernbach

Love:

A bell is no bell 'til you ring it,
A song is no song 'til you sing it,
And love in your heart
Wasn’t put there to stay -
Love isn’t love
'Til you give it away.
~Oscar Hammerstein, Sound of Music, "You Are Sixteen (Reprise)"

"Gravitation is not responsible for people falling in love." ~Albert Einstein

"If a man walks in the woods for love of them half of each day, he is in danger of being regarded as a loafer. But if he spends his days as a speculator, shearing off those woods and making the earth bald before her time, he is deemed an industrious and enterprising citizen." ~Henry David Thoreau

"Love is a promise, love is a souvenir, once never forgotten, never let it disappear." ~John Lennon

Fantastic:

"Fashion, by which what is really fantastic becomes for a moment the universal.”
~Oscar Wilde

“One of the great things about books is sometimes there are some fantastic pictures.”
~George W. Bush

Thinking about my favorite words has been a fun exercise for my brain. As you can plainly read, it's been a bit humorous too. :D Be sure to find a reason to smile or laugh today!

Top Ten Tuesday: Words I Love

2010-09-07T13:50:00.003-05:00

Since I love words and quotes so much I thought I would combine the two today for The Broke and the Bookish Top Ten Tues.: Favorite Words. Here’s my choices which may be subject to change on any given day but for today these are the words that came immediately to my mind that I love, especially the way they sound!

1. Ability ~ " 'I never cheat at cards.' It was true, if one ignored his uncanny ability to keep track of every card in a deck. Some people didn't."
p 10 "A Hellion in Her Bed" by Sabrina Jeffries (ARC) Found in Teaser Tues. at In the Hammock blog.

2. Ludicrous ~ “I could feel his muscle tissues collapse under my force. It's ludicrous these mortals even attempt to enter my realm.”
-Mike Tyson

3. Intensity ~“Personally, I experience the greatest degree of pleasure in having contact with works of art. They furnish me with happy feelings of an intensity such as I cannot derive from other realms.”
Albert Einstein

4. Lovely~I think that I shall never see
A billboard lovely as a tree.
Perhaps, unless the billboards fall,
I'll never see a tree at all.
~Ogden Nash, "Song of the Open Road," 1933

5. Influence~The way you think, the way you behave, the way you eat, can influence your life by 30 to 50 years. Most people believe that aging is universal but there are biological organisms that never age.
Deepak Chopra

6. Fantastic~“Until we're educating every kid in a fantastic way, until every inner city is cleaned up, there is no shortage of things to do.”
Bill Gates

7. Truth~"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife."
- Chapter 1, Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen

8. Imagination~"A lady's imagination is very rapid; it jumps from admiration to love, from love to matrimony, in a moment."
- Chapter 6, Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen

9. Persuasion~“Character may almost be called the most effective means of persuasion.”
-Aristotle

10. Deceive~"It is very often nothing but our own vanity that deceives us."
- Chapter 24, Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen

Now, it's your turn - think about your favorite words and share them with me!

Teaser Tuesdays(13): Unwind by Neal Shusterman

2010-09-07T07:13:00.003-05:00

Introduced to me by: Blue Duck Book Reviews
Hosted by: MizB of Should be reading

My Teaser:

"Sure enough, the safe is open wide-but it's not entirely empty. Inside is the bracelet, its gold and diamonds looking even brighter against the ugly gray steel of the empty safe."

pg. 161 in Unwind by Neal Shusterman

*Anyone can play ~ Find your current read, share a quote from a random page plus do tell what you're reading.
*Remember, you are always welcome to share your teaser in the comments as well.
*For more details be sure to look up how on the links above.

A Quote About Art

2010-09-02T07:01:00.000-05:00

Recently, I went to two local Art museums and I saw this quote on the side of a building close-by one of them so I snapped a picture. I enjoy thinking about this essence that it seems to be relating about Art through this quote. I wonder how you might relate or what you may think of this quote. I'm curious so let me know.
Sent on the Sprint® Now Network from my BlackBerry®

Teaser Tuesdays (12): Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

2010-08-31T10:03:00.004-05:00

Introduced to me by: Blue Duck Book Reviews
Hosted by: MizB of Should be reading

*Anyone can play ~ Find your current read, share a quote from a random page plus do tell what you're reading.
*Remember, you are always welcome to share your teaser in the comments as well.
*For more details be sure to look up how on the links above.

My Teaser:

"Izzy scrambles over me. I squeeze the chub of her stomach and get one last squeal out of her before she jumps off the bed and dashes out the door."

- Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver, pg. 271

My Thoughts:

I had to share this quote because I loved the way this scene felt in the book. Beautifully carefree!

~Thanks for coming by today!

Teaser Tuesday(11): The Magician's Elephant by Kate DiCamillo

2010-08-17T07:35:00.005-05:00

"Deep within herself, the elephant said this name, her name, over and over
again."

pg. 95 The Magician's Elephant by Kate DiCamillo

My thoughts:

Honestly, I've been quite excited about reading this ever since I read this review from Chris over at Stuff As Dreams Are Made On... I'm enjoying reading this to my kids and we're making an effort to get it read before school starts. Very enjoyable!

Impromptu Flowers

2010-08-16T07:05:00.000-05:00

I thought it would be fun to share a few photos of flowers I've seen all around with you. I hope it brings you a smile today!

It seems like I'm like everyone else with the basic fact that you have to take those impromptu trips to the grocery store. If I can avoid it or send my husband, I will. I don't like to go shopping. Lately, I discovered something that has been brightening my day when I do go to that dreaded grocery store and it is the flowers! Many stores have a small flower department and I'm finding that I enjoy taking the time to look at them. It would be fun to buy all the flowers I've been looking at but that's not economically possible. So, one day I started taking pictures on my phone of the flowers and I found that I liked looking at these pictures later. I still don't enjoy going shopping all the time but I do enjoy looking and snapping a picture of those pretty flowers!

People from a planet without flowers would think we must be mad with joy the whole time to have such things about us. ~Iris Murdoch, A Fairly Honourable Defeat

Top Ten Tuesday: Most Dislikable Characters

2010-08-10T14:19:00.006-05:00

Today's top ten over at The Broke and the Bookish is very interesting because it is about the most dislikeable characters you find in books. You remember, the ones we love to hate, maybe even give us nightmares, or make us feel strong feelings like anger, madness or frustration over. Don't worry, I didn't have time to expound on each character too much about why I didn't like them so you'll need to discover that for yourself by reading about them either in my reviews or in the book itself.

1. Ray from Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott

2. Meursault from The Stranger

3. Angel Clare in Tess of the D'Urbervilles

4. Uriah Heep and Murdstones from David Copperfield

5. John Willoughby in Sense and Sensibility by J.A.

6. Heathcliff in Wuthering Heights

7. He Who Must Not Be Named (L.V.) in the Harry PotterSeries.

From Non-fiction:

1. Roland Molineux from The Devil's Gentleman: Privelege, Poison, and the Trial That Ushered in the Twentieth Century by Harold Schechter
2. Ted Bundy from The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule
3. H.H. Holmes from The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America by Erik Larson

~Random mentions from others that came to my mind as I wrote this up, since I haven't necessarily read these books yet they're not in my top ten, but because I've heard about them before:

Rosamund from Middlemarch
Ellsworth Toohey of The Fountainhead
Emma Bovary of Madame Bovary
Sue Brideshead in Thomas Hardy's Jude the Obscure

Do you remember any of these from my list? If so, what did you think about them - maybe you even liked them? Otherwise, be sure to tell me what villianous or disagreeable character first comes to your mind in the comments. I can't wait to hear who you pick!

Creativity in Book Reviews

2010-08-06T07:34:00.007-05:00

I've started participating in a Thursday meme over at Chrissie's Corner called Radiant Reviews. Basically, this is a meme where you link to any one of your book reviews that has been lacking attention and you bring it up again in the hope that others will see and comment on it showing other bloggers some love as comments really are a vital part of the blog. I love this concept. It's also a way to celebrate book reviewing that takes time and hard work. I've been having fun hopping around to different book blogs and reading their reviews. I'm noticing differences in review style, presentation, what they like to read and it amazes me how unique we all are when it comes to reading and reviewing books. For the most part, I like what I see or I wouldn't keep reading book blogs. I do love book blogs!
I like the creative diversity that can be found in book reviewing. I know I'm as guilty as anyone to falling into a rut and reviewing books in the same way over & over again. I'd like to remedy that. Once in a while, though, I've been inspired by the book to come up with a creative book review. So, I've tried to go for it and use that inspiration. By doing that, it really helps me feel like I've accomplished something. I feel it is important that book bloggers strive to use creativity with book blogging. After all, I think our creativity is what sets us apart from reviews that we could easily find and read on other venues.

Here are some creative things I like to find in book reviews online:

Write from the heart and use original short & sweet summaries. If I want a summary from the publisher, I can usually find on the back flap or read it at a site like Amazon. I like to see what the reader's point of view was while reading the book.
Use an occasional different format: a Q & A, a table, poem or prose - something that is unique once in a while that fits the book and feels inspired from it. Of course, these reviews take a lot longer to write so it is ok if they don't show up very much but they are sure fun to read when they do!
Please let me know if you're going to spoil it. For me, book reading is an experience and I don't want to know a whole lot about a book going in all the time. I like something that will tease me into reading the book. So please, use a spoiler alert, so it's my fault, not yours, if I keep reading the book review and it spoils the book for me.

I realize these are pretty basic in book blogging and this is just my opinion so you don't have to take my word for it anyway. Instead, read other book blogs and see what you think.

Would you like to see more creativity in book blogging? What creative things do you like to see when it comes to book reviews? Do you even read book reviews?

Leave a precious comment and let me know. I'd like to see examples of your favorite book reviews too. :)

*This post was inspired from the #bblog discussion on twitter.

Tweets to ponder:

@SRMcAvoy "Thankfully, we can all find books we love if we read, read often and read deeply." From his disclaimer on book reviewing.

@leewind "If everyone goes home and writes to the trends, then the vampires win." -- Justin Chanda

@markfergbk "let's make sure that love of books is one of the most vibrant messages on the Internet" (roughly) #bookbloggercon

@WritersRelief "Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep." ~Scott Adams

@deadwhiteguys "Not a fan of all-review blogs- I can walk through B&N and read blurbs if that's all I wanted..prefer more conversation.."#bblog

Thanks for reading!
This post is also an official challenge to all book reviewers to show us what you've got and use more of your own creativity in book reviews. I know you can be visionary!

Top Ten Tuesday - Favorite Book Characters

2010-08-03T18:26:00.007-05:00

I love these thought-provoking top ten list questions from The Broke and the Bookish! Today's question is:

What are your top ten Favourite Book Characters?

1. Charlotte from Charlotte's Web - She is the first character that I remember thinking I wanted to emulate her characteristics when I was young. I loved her spider web messages filled with kind thoughts, her love and acceptance of Wilbur, her wisdom and courage to be a good friend to someone completely different from herself that she didn't have to invest in but she did anyway.

2. Emma Woodhouse from one of Jane Austen's masterpieces is so unforgettable. I love how clever, happy and even oblivious she is yet she lives without abandon and her intentions are so enchantingly dear. She is so fun to read about and see portrayed in movies but you can't really capture her magnificent persona along with how misunderstood I imagine she truly is .

3. Jacob from Twilight: kind, gentle, a good listener, romantic, yet not perfection just a great attitude that is progressing as best he can through his suprising twist of fate in his life. Being a bit spontaneous is helpful too.

4. Joe Mack from Last of the Breed by Louis L'Amour. I loved his MacGyver type mind, willingness to never give up even in the midst of hindering self-doubts. I just haven't forgotten his journey he faced in this icy frontier.

5. Pablo from Reasonable Doubt by Marcia Mickelson. Confident, charming, helpful, sophisticated and very interesting. I enjoyed this portrayal of a modern gentleman.

6. Professor Severus Snape from Harry Potter. I love the many depths of his character and the way he kept surprising me all the time. Simple, profound and so unique. I felt so much for the many qualities of this character - good and bad. In fact, every time I see a crow now I think of him. I'm not sure why I just do.

7. Lily Bart from The House of Mirth. I enjoyed reading about her and all of her faults, difficulties and hardships. She amazed me with her brutal honesty yet surprised me with her frustrating sensiblities at times. I wanted to see how she would react to the situations unfolding all around her.

8. Eowyn from The Lord of the Rings. She is so courageous, brave and spirited. She didn't worry of what others thought or what she was supposed to do. She took action in spite of warnings not to react. Her loyalty is fiercely not to be forgotten.

9. Beth March from Little Women. She changed the world from her bedside with her broken dreams and dashed hopes but this didn't stop her from loving and caring the people who meant the most to her. She shared all she could with what she was given. She wasn't afraid to say any way she could what was most important. She is a truly beautiful character.

10. Percy from The Scarlett Pimpernel. He's a legend! He speaks fluidly, flowery and is basically very fun to be around because, let's face it, he knows how to work a crowd. He is one extravagant thing yet quite another altogether. A master of disguise and not your run of the mill hero.

Thanks for reading! I'm a bit late in posting but my scheduling of this post had issues today. Sorry. These are the first memorable names that popped into my head from all the different books I've read. I know there are more but I'm glad to have been introduced to and to have read these characters in books. I love to think of them from time to time. Plus, these books are perfect re-reads just to live within the boundaries of these characters lives again.

Radiant Reviews - Thursday Meme

2010-07-29T07:05:00.000-05:00

5-Squared: The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy

You may read this book review of mine if you haven't yet since I decided to participate in this Thursday Meme at

Radiant Reviews at Chrissie's Corner

Perhaps you'd like to share one of your book reviews that you've worked so hard on as well. Or head on over to read others. Beware: you'll probably find more books to add to your TBR(To Be Read) list! Have fun & leave a comment to let the writer of the reviews you read know you've stopped by because, as always, comments are what makes blogging so fun!

Thanks!

Top Ten Tuesday(1): Favorite Books

2010-07-27T18:19:00.005-05:00

I discovered this on Lu's Book Blog and I realized that I love to follow The Broke and the Bookish on twitter so I thought I'd participate in her meme: Top Ten Tuesday. Today's top ten is

What are your top ten all-time favorite books?

1) The Light in the Forest by Conrad Richter - This is the first classic literature that stands out in my mind. My mom suggested I read it when I was young and complaining of boredom which that adds to the meaning that comes behind reading it for me. Isolated, human fragility, and perceptive are just some of the words that describe it and give you a sense of this book. Simplistic yet well done.

2) The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton - I was completely captivated and really enjoyed the main character, Lily. There are many quotes that I love in this book.

3) The Lord of the Rings - The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien - I like all of these books but I really do love a beginning of a story and this is one of those rare perfect beginnings.

4)Uglies by Scott Westerfeld - another one that I love the series as well but this is another awesome beginning to entertaining characters and a dystopia novel that will have you questioning everything you know in the world he created and the one you're in now.

5)Charlotte's Web by E.B. White - This really was one of the very first books that I ever loved. I still have my very worn and tattered old copy of this book. I love to talk about this book because I think there is so much to it.

6)The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath - This book is one of the saddest books but I loved the imagery and amazing language within its pages. Plath is poetic and I like her style!

7)Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling - Honestly, I love the whole series but I'm choosing this one since it is the one I've re-read a few more times than the others. I just love Dobie!

8)The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Emmuska Orczy - I love the legend of this book! It is silly to some but has depth and layers of meaning to me.

9)The Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens - This is a "must-read" each Christmas or at least most of them and if I don't get to read it I make sure to see a film adaptation of this book.

10)The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson - This book is fresh in my mind and I just can't forget about it so I'll add it here. It's one of those that changes in your mind after you read it and already, I feel I'm due for a re-read.

Is 10 all I get? I know that there are many more books that I love than this but this is my list for today.

***

Ok, I can't help it so I cheat since three more entered my mind before I published that I have to list, even if just for myself:

11) A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L'Engle

12) The Diary of Anne Frank

13)When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

Thanks for reading through all of this!

Just for fun: Right now, see if you can quickly think of a favorite book and leave it in the comments. List the very first one that comes to your mind. GO!

Teaser Tuesday (10): Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

2010-07-27T08:57:00.003-05:00

For a brief moment, time stood still. Not really still. It sort of danced and shimmered in place, the lights flickering and dimming before reappearing. If that moment had been a real thing, it would've been a butterfly, flapping and fluttering toward the sun.

~pg. 236 in Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

My thoughts:

In this book , the imagery is amazing! I have felt moments like these, perhaps even many times but wouldn't attempt to describe them - only feel them and let them pass. This is an incredible description that I will ponder as it will forever be fused into my memory now.

Poetry from my Purse

2010-07-23T05:34:00.001-05:00

True to form for a writer, I always have to carry good old-fashioned paper and pen around with me so my purse is actually a Franklin Covey planner. I've thought about getting a new purse recently but I can't part with this one. I've had this similar style now for about 10 yrs. & I like that I have something to write or doodle with. I used to carry a calendar too but haven't been this year since I didn't order a refill or find my usual F.C. cheapo ones from Target. I've found that I like having lots of paper instead. So, as I was changing the paper and cleaning out all of those old receipts this time around, here is a poem that I wrote in my purse. Perhaps, this will be a regular feature for every time I clean out my purse.
What about you? What do you find hiding in your purse, on a napkin, a receipt or an old notebook lying around? Feel free to share it if you'd like or let me know what you think when you have a minute. Thanks!

***

Of the Every Day

Rough water
lighthouse
sharp rocks
slashing waves
continuously cut
break apart
only until the elements
beat it down
so much until it
ever surrenders
to the sustaining light

Instead of rough water
reflecting light
being compelled to surrender
giving then receiving
as a lighthouse
I prefer to stand
to bask in the light
to stay off the beaten path
like a beacon
swimming in calm seas
finding the beauty
in the common
the misplaced
surrendering to the honest spirit
of the every day.

***

by J.A.C.

A "Soundtrack of My Childhood"

2010-07-21T04:58:00.002-05:00

I remember that my Mom loved to listen to Starry, Starry Night by Julio Iglesias.

My dad loved Manheim Steamroller a lot - especially at Christmas.

I've grown to love Classical, mainly because of my Grandpa Hatch letting me listen to it with him, and Vivaldi is one of my favorites. Listening to classical music is one of the best ways I can feel relaxed.

My Grandma Hatch loved to sing all the time. She knew a song for every letter in the alphabet. The ones that stick out to me are A-Tisket, A-Tasket, Animal Crackers in my Soup, and Yankee Doodle Dandy.

My Grandpa Ted also loved to sing and I remember Danny Boy among others.

My Grandma Rae would sing Que, Sera, Sera to me.

Children's songs and Hymns from church are such a solace to me where in the end, there was "Never a Better Hero" by Kenneth Cope.

In my teen years, it was all about the '80's music, baby. Heart, Debbie Gibson and Michael Jackson + so many others that it's hard to name them all...a little ragtime by Scott Bradlee might jog your memory.

In college, whether I liked the variety or not, the '90's didn't let you forget with even more music from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Britney and Nirvana to name a few. I didn't feel I could identify with '90's music so I didn't listen to it all the time.

Next Matchbox Twenty made their amazing debut in my life.

Of course, now that music history has been sung from my point of view and we return to present day, I can't help thinking I'm forgetting some great music (like from movies) but that will have to be another post. Overall, I still love a good beat today and my favorites are fairly obvious since I have links to them from this blog. Cook(my A.I.), Mayer(best guitar ever) and Rt(best songwriter) - what more need I say?

I hope all the links from YouTube.com work and you can enjoy listening if you want to.

How about you? What music do you remember most from your childhood?

Teaser Tuesdays (9)

2010-07-20T04:41:00.000-05:00

I thought I would revive my blog and enliven myself a little bit by participating in this meme again. Most of all, I love reading and sharing quotes from books! I look forward to reading what you share too.

Introduced to me by: Bookworm Barista
Hosted by: MizB of Should be reading

*Anyone can play ~ Find your current read, share a quote from a random page plus do tell what you're reading.
*Remember, you are always welcome to share your teaser in the comments as well.
*For more details be sure to look up how on the links above.

My teaser:

Evil Forest then thrust the pointed end of his rattling staff into the earth. And it began to shake and rattle, like something agitating with a metallic life.

pg. 89, Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe

My thoughts:

This is a classic read. It's taken me a while to read this book because my interest has wavered at times. I think it is a learning curve and it has a lot to offer a reader overall. Since it is summer I think that is a harder time for me with grasping the cultural details as I'm interrupted a lot more as I read. It is coming together in a very unexpected way as I finish it.

An O.M.B Award!

2010-07-19T23:57:00.005-05:00

Wow, I'm so flattered and amazed! Thanks so much! I received this Oh My Blog..! award for my book reviews over at 5-squared. Actually, two people passed it to me and Congrats to them as well:

Heather at Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Books
PapeRDoll at Book Memoirs

So, go on over and check out their amazing book review skills on their blogs. Plus, you'll most likely find something to read. :)

In the meantime, I'll do one of the following according to the rules for the Oh My Blog..! Award:

1. Get Really Excited that you got the coolest award EVER! (ditto)

2. Choose one of the following options of accepting the OMB Award :

*Get really drunk and blog for fifteen minutes straight , or for as long as you can focus.
*Write about your most embarrassing moment.
*Write a "Soundtrack Of Your Childhood" post
*Make your next blog a "vlog" (video blog). Basically your talking to the camera about whatever.
*Take a picture of yourself first thing in the morning, before you do anything else (hair, makeup, etc,) and post it

3. Pass the award on to at least three, but preferably more, awesome bloggers. Don't forget to tell them.

I don't drink. I have a lot of embarrasing moments. I don't really know how to vlog. I pretty much look about the same in the a.m. as I normally do or maybe I'm hopeful. ;)

So, I'm going to write a "Soundtrack of My Childhood" post. It's going to be fun to take a walk down memory lane through music. My childhood was filled with music and I really enjoy listening to all types of music. I hope you'll enjoy it when it comes up!

I'll pass it along to these impressive bloggers:
Lu at Lu's Book Blog
To Grow On
Jencey at Writer's Corner

And my 5-squared friends to express my gratitude to them for writing book reviews too:
Lula O at Strictly Letters
Carrie at Carrie's Me World
Queen 'Bina at Not a True Blog

Thanks and you're all wonderful!

Starting again with Poetry

2010-07-08T06:30:00.000-05:00

I've been processing in my mind back and forth about this blog. I've been really struggling with blogging very much of anything lately. I've thought about deleting it entirely but I don't think I can do that even. I've put effort into this blog whether or not I'm writing on here. I love to write and I looked on blogging as a fun way to keep a log of what I love. That's what this blog is all about. Ideas & reflection. Eventually, I'm sure I'll get back to writing and blogging more. I actually have a notebook full of ideas that I'd like to write into blogs but I obviously haven't as of yet. I've even considered just starting a whole new blog over but I'm not sure if that's the answer yet either until I'm ready to be more consistent and serious as that's what I feel I should be about blogging. So, for now I shared this poem recently again with a poetry group and as I'm awaiting their thoughts I thought I'd start somewhere again on this blog and share it with you.

Here is a poem I wrote mainly to provide awareness for mental illness. It is very real and deep for those who experience it and for others around them experiencing it along with them and struggling to understand, whether or not to help but most of all trying to love them unconditionally. Even I feel a need to be more aware and understanding of this real issue so that's why I wrote this in March of 2008. This is a raw draft. Anyway, I'm curious as to what you might think of my poetry anyway. Here goes:

Mental Twist
By Julie A. Carter

There is a pain
a twist inside
I don’t understand
buried deep within
I can feel it now
almost as if it were
hidden in the shadows
amongst tiny crevices
yet its twisted and creeps up
through my heart
spiraling, tingling
a hurtful sensation
physically sick

“Anxiety, they tell me
Calm your nerves.”
I can’t - -
I don’t understand why
I thought my life was going great
I thought I was easy going,
Even optimistic
What do you mean, I’m not?

“Medication, that’s what you need
Then it will go away
You’ll function again.”
I try, but it’s strange
and new - -
Actually, I can’t think
I feel
numb
Perhaps before I could
feel
but I’m forgetting about
before
All I know is
I just hurt - -

There is a pain
a twist inside
I don’t understand

*image taken from this blog.

Overall cheers for Read-a-thon-er's!

2010-04-11T04:19:00.004-05:00

I've been cheering to as many as I could throughout the night. I wasn't able to get to a lot of you during the day because I had a very busy one. I'd like to send my overall cheers and love tonight to all of you who admirably participated in the read-a-thon this Spring season. Sorry that I wasn't able to visit your blog personally. I hope you had fun reading those beautiful books!
I was able to get a bit of reading time in for myself, I'm reading Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins, so you can expect that I had to read it's eventful pages even though I couldn't be a reader myself this time. Overall, I simply enjoy cheering and reading what you have to say in your blogging about reading so much. I hope to read, see and cheer you on during the next read-a-thon too.
Meanwhile, keep on reading!

All good books are alike in that they are truer
than if they had really happened
and after you are finished reading one
you will feel that all that happened
to you and afterwards it all belongs to you;
the good and the bad, the ecstasy, the remorse,
and sorrow, the people and the places and how the weather was.
~ Ernest Hemingway ~

The end of reading is not more books but more life.
~ George Holbrook Jackson ~

Dewey's Readathon Cheering - from the bottom of my heart

2010-04-07T00:41:00.004-05:00

I realize I have been absent or perhaps even absent-minded from this blog as of late but I really can't resist becoming a cheerleader again for the 24 hr. Dewey's Readathon. What can I say? I love to think of positive bits even if they come across cheesy or sappy. In my heart, I know how I feel about reading and I do truly love it myself. So, why not? I signed up for one hour because I am extremely busy in that day on the 10th of April but I'll make an honest effort to visit throughout the day many of the readathon participants and spread some honest to goodness love and cheer for as many of them as I can to read, read, read!

Best of luck to y'all - TX style - that is!

A Quote to Remember

2010-02-04T09:56:00.004-06:00

Recently, I reviewed Can't Wait to get to Heaven by Fannie Flagg and I remembered after I wrote up the review that I wanted to add this quote from the book to my list. Then I thought it really belonged on this blog so I'll type it up here. I think you'll see why. :)

A little while later, when Dorothy and Elner were outside on the front
porch having their coffee and cake, Elner sat looking out, amazed at the sight
before her. While she had been inside talking to Ernest, the sky had
turned an exquisite shade of aqua, a color Elner had never seen before in her
life, and the entire front yard was filled with flocks of beautiful pink
flamingos. Large blue swans with bright yellow eyes swam around her in a
pond that wound all around the house, while hundreds of multicolored birds flew
overhead. Elner said, "Don't you just love birds?"
"I do."

pg. 157, Paperback-Ballantine Books

Here's another quote I'd like to remember that the author shared at the very beginning of this book right before the first chapter:

There are two ways to live your life.
One is as though nothing is a miracle.
The other is as though everything is a miracle.
~Albert Einstein

My Reading in 2009

2010-01-08T21:22:00.002-06:00

For me, it was an exploding year of reading! To my knowledge, it's the very best I've ever done. But perhaps it's because I actually kept track. I've really been enjoying Goodreads for that reason. Anyway, here are some stats (thanks for the idea Lula) of my reading for '09~

Overall count: 49.5 (hehehe, I'm saying the .5 to be funny but technically I did read half of the book at the end of the year but I'll finish it in 2010 and fully count it then.)

Non-fiction:7
Romances:8
Classics:6
Adult Fiction:11
Young Adult:13
Poetry:1
Graphic novels:3
Female authors:26
Male authors:17
Really disliked:4

Top 10 Favorites, in no particular order:

1. The Silenced by James DeVita: This was a very powerful read for me. It is a dystopian novel set in futuristic time but is based on an actual experience of Sophie Scholl who was an activist against Hitler in WWII. Through the eyes of this story, I felt powerfully what it must mean to be courageous. I really felt I took something from this book that will last within me for a long while. It has only grown as now I've read more and researched a bit about Sophie.

2. The Uglies Series by Scott Westerfeld: These are magnificently written books that are also dystopian. They are true page turner's. It caused me wonder about the meaning of words like ugly and pretty. Yet, I feel the very heart of these books are the intimate elements of friendship.

3. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer: This book is told through letters only which caused me to realize the power and the old art of letter-writing. It feels like getting to know or reconnect with old friends again. Heartwarming!

4. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins: Another page turner! This book is also dystopian and isn't actually very pleasant yet I couldn't put it down. I truly felt for this created world and these characters. There is a lot to think or talk about with this book.

5. The Nature of Jade by Deb Calletti: This book will make you fall in love with elephants! Plus. many elements of this story have lasted with me. It was realistic yet vivid, hauntingly subdued and still hopeful.

6. The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck: Fall into the simple life again through the eyes of a Chinese farmer and his family. As Wang-Lung experiences his life, it is poignantly clear even in what you feel through these words that there will be periods of good, challenging and miserable. I realized that perhaps in the beginning stages of our lives we have so much more than we realize. Take nothing for granted in this story and also get to know the character of the earth.

7. Emma by Jane Austen: How I love Emma and her grand intentions! She is so charming, affectionate and satiating. I find it hard to resist this idealistic classic!

8. Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott: Reading this was simply horrifying for me yet is a tale that remains quite eye-opening and will not be easily forgotten.

9. The Plain Janes by Cecil Castellucci: In this graphic novel, the artwork is amazing along with the writing. A lot different and a better experience than I ever expected in reading a graphic novel. In the end, it left me wanting more.

10. The Jungle by Upton Sinclair: Another horrifying, unforgettable book but in a completely different way. In his definite classic, Sinclair has proven the power in the written word. I've been really into books about this time period lately. This book made be thankful that we have an F.D.A. today even if it still may be problematic.

*Remember for more comprehensive reviews on the books I've read this year, please read my book review's on 5-squared.

Image credit: mandj98 - Creative Commons

Readathon Cheering: Give Me a B - O - O - K!

2009-10-24T17:20:00.004-05:00

Today, I'll be cheerleading those 24 hr. readers on while they read, read, read. I'm looking forward to this opportunity to cheer on their love of reading.
I'm also excited to hear about what they are reading(more for my TBR list), read cool book blogs (purely selfish reason to cheer) and see photo's about their snacks(yummy!) and other things around them (so interesting).

Go, Go, Go Readers! Whip out those books and read!

I'll be thinking of you all day (I really, really mean that) as I continue doing all those busy things that I've committed to today as well. Hard to believe, you're 11 hrs. in and I'm just getting this down (sorry I'm slow about this) since I've been up since about 7 a.m. (like all of you) trying to do just that and be a part of it all. I love Readathon's!

Anyway, here's a few of the things I've done today while you've been reading away:

Sent my son on a 5 mile hike early this morning.

Taught a card making class plus some adorable tags at the Super Saturday craft day at our church.

Made Potato Cheese Soup for the luncheon at Super Sat.

Drove my oldest daughter to a Service Project.

Finished shopping to get my daughter ready for Science Camp on Mon.

Pumpkin Carving with my children.

Now, off to craft some more.

I'd like to make some bookish papercraft things as well today like a bookmark or two.

I'll also make sure to read a few chapters of a book today as well.

That's why I can only cheer you on. Oh, how I'd love to be reading with you. Someday, I will.

Teaser Tuesdays (8)

2009-10-20T12:13:00.003-05:00

Introduced to me by: Bookworm Barista
Hosted by: MizB of Should be reading

*Anyone can play ~ Find your current read, share a quote from a random page plus do tell what you're reading.
*Remember, you are always welcome to share your teaser in the comments as well. I really liked that Erin did that last time. :) Thanks for participating, Erin!
*For more details be sure to look up how on the links above.

My teaser:

"Here's to responsibility," he toasted. "Twice a week."
"And recklessness every day in between," I emphasized.

pg. 164, New Moon by Stephenie Meyer

My thoughts:
I've been aiming to read this through for a long time but it is taking me a long time. I'd really like to finish it before the movie. So, that's what I'm trying to do.

I finished R.I.P. IV Reading Challenge

2009-10-19T22:48:00.002-05:00

I finished reading the book I chose for the R.I.P IV Reading Challenge. It feels good to have fulfilled my commitment. I also wrote up my review on 5-squared too. It was a perfect choice for this year.
Now, I'm going to see if its possible for me to finish one more and review it in time. Besides, I 'd really like to finish New Moon by Stephanie Meyer before the movie comes out so that's what I'll read. I'll let you know how it goes!

Life, Death and NaNoWriMo

2009-10-19T22:17:00.001-05:00

Life seems to have been a bit of a slippery slope for me lately. Everything from dealing with my own mood swings to more car troubles. Day by day, I find I have more to do. Reminds me of Mr. Incredible,

"No matter how many times you save the world, it always manages to get back in jeopardy again. Sometimes I just want it to stay saved! You know, for a little bit? I feel like the maid; I just cleaned up this mess! Can we keep it clean for... for ten minutes!"

I've been desperately trying to organize a bit of a space upstairs to help aid in the ability to enjoy doing the things I love best at home. Little by little it's coming along and looking more like the Art/Writing/Papercraft studio I've always dreamed about. Plus, I have a nice place to read and I really love my comfy chair that Jared bought for me when I had Noah. That's been a comforting place lately.

Here's a few book quotes:

“You know you've read a good book when you turn the last page and feel a little as if you have lost a friend.”

Paul Sweeney

“Books open your mind, broaden your mind, and strengthen you as nothing else can”

William Feather

My grandmother Lillian passed away this week. Truly, a remarkable woman. I was told about it on Weds. and that her funeral arrangements were made for Fri. and Sat. After researching about tickets, I just couldn't take away the money it would consume from the family, given our current financial state, to get me to the funeral. It was a tough decision. I hated it. I've had to find my own way to feel closure. I don't deal too well with that considering I still have things I drive my husband and friends batty with because I can't get over it. I don't know how to fix that either.
So, here's what I wrote on facebook:

Things I remember about visiting my Grandma Lillian: warm hello's, treats on the orange rug, singing songs, sloppy joes, coffee table magazine's, perfume filled hugs, memorized poetry and sad goodbye's. I'll really miss my dear sweet Grandma. I'm grateful that she is not in pain anymore and reunited with Grandpa now. I'm unable to attend the funeral this weekend but I'm looking forward to hearing about it.

I'll add here that my sister mentioned Grandma giving us her hard ribbon candy and I remember Werther's or butterscotch hard candies too.

"He(She) who has gone, so we but cherish his(her) memory, abides with us, more potent, nay, more present than the living man." -Antoine de Saint-Exupery {R.I.P. Grandma Lil}

I did it! I did it! I signed up for NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) and you can see my progress here. If you're doing it, I'd be happy to have you as a writing buddy. To say the least, I pretty much feel like this quote from the movie A Beautiful Mind:

Hansen: So how about it, Nash? You scared?
Nash: Terrified... mortified... petrified... stupefied... by you.

Yet another classic line:

Nash: Classes will dull your mind, destroy the potential for authentic creativity.

I'll be seeking that potential next month. I'd like to wish all who participate this year in NaNo the very best and lots of luck! Whatever comes of it, one thing is sure, it's going to be memorable!

Teaser Tuesdays (7)

2009-10-06T09:44:00.003-05:00

Introduced to me by: Bookworm Barista
Hosted by: Should Be Reading

*Anyone can play ~ Find your current read, share a quote from a random page plus do tell what you're reading. I'm playing because I love quotes!
Remember, you are always welcome to share your teaser in the comments as well. I really enjoyed that Karen did that last time. :) Thanks, Karen! Btw, her book blog is superb so you should check it out here.
For more details be sure to look up how on the links above.

My teaser this Tuesday:

"Would you like a cup of tea?"
It was strange to be inside myself, walking steadily and rigidly past the fence, putting my feet down strongly but without hast that they might have noticed, to be inside and know that they were looking at me; I was hiding very far inside but I could hear them and see them still from one corner of my eye. I wished they were all lying there dead on the ground.

pg. 23, We Have Always Lived In The Castle by Shirley Jackson

*My note:
I had to share this quote since I am really enjoying this book! I've been savoring each little bit. I love the atmosphere of it too. It's been a perfect read for this month.

100 Mile Fitness Challenge

2009-10-05T23:20:00.003-05:00

I need to get walking and get motivated so I'm going to sign up and do this challenge by Trish. So the challenge is to “travel” 100 miles from October 1st through December 31st. It sounds great! I'll be glad to have an opportunity to challenge myself with exercise. So, here I go. Wish me luck.

If you'd like to join and get started be sure to look and sign up here.