I put my overview and pages in the mail today. (squeeeeee)
It's such a load off.
Now...about the rest of my book...
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Monday, July 20, 2009
Breathe, Must Breathe!
I received confirmation of my agent/editor pick for a ten page critique at the RMFW Colorado Gold Conference today. I'll be in a group of 10, and honestly, I never expected to get my first choice. But I did.
*drum roll*
Kristin Nelson!!! Whoot whoo!!!
OMG, I feel sick. I've had butterflies (or sharks) swarming around in my stomach since I received word. This is big, and I'm SO not ready.
But I will be!
Now...back to work!
*drum roll*
Kristin Nelson!!! Whoot whoo!!!
OMG, I feel sick. I've had butterflies (or sharks) swarming around in my stomach since I received word. This is big, and I'm SO not ready.
But I will be!
Now...back to work!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Fooling Around With The New Idea
Hmmmm....whatcha think?
UNTITLED (c) 2009
My first fire was an accident--a fluke. A few random events that led me to torching the prom dress Danni Milton had made us all coo over for half the night. It went up like parchment when I knocked a candle over on top of where it lay spread out across her bed, and I spent the rest of the evening worried someone would figure out I was to blame. They didn't. They thought it had been an accident too.
My second fire? Now that one I planned.
UNTITLED (c) 2009
My first fire was an accident--a fluke. A few random events that led me to torching the prom dress Danni Milton had made us all coo over for half the night. It went up like parchment when I knocked a candle over on top of where it lay spread out across her bed, and I spent the rest of the evening worried someone would figure out I was to blame. They didn't. They thought it had been an accident too.
My second fire? Now that one I planned.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Inspiration Anyone?
I'm on a roll with FI. The beginning is shaping up nicely and my advance reader (Jenna) has been pretty happy with the results so far. That said, I still have a ways to go before I'm satisfied. Of course, once the beginning is addressed, I'll need to tuck into the last 3/4ths of the book. It's not going to be pretty, but at least I feel rejeuvenated. Maybe this high will carry me through to the end.
I've set a quasi-deadline for the opening chapters. Next week. LOL. Who knows, it could happen. I have readers waiting, so I better get crackin'.
I'm still putting together my playlist. It's coming along...slowly. LOL. I find that I'm not necessarily "inspired" by certain songs -- as least not in regards to a specific scene. That whole "hear a song and write a scene" thing just doesn't seem to be my bag. What I do find is that certain songs start my brain churning and ideas seem to come more readily when I'm listening to them. I have no idea why. My brain is weird. This has been established by now, yes?
The latest additions, and don't you DARE laugh! They show my age.
The first is 'Mercenary' by the Go-Go's. *blink*
I have no idea why, but when this song cranks through my iPod, story ideas start flowing. The lyrics don't necessarily pertain to the book itself...well, maybe in a distant way...but the fact that it's helping is just plain ole' weird.
And don't you dare make fun of me for liking the Go-Go's! You know you wanted to have The Beat when you were a kid. We all did.
Oh...love the clothes, love the dancing...love the solos. MMMM, the 80's. Alas, no Mercenary...but just as good.
The second is 'Hook' by Blues Traveler.
I've always loved this song and it seems to be sparking ideas. That's doubly awesome for me. :)
Know what's made of even more awesome? The fact that I recognize the guy on the couch -- he hosted Remote Control. Good Gawd, I'm old.
In celebration, I think it's time for a little teaser... hmm. The first page perhaps?
Excerpt from FAKING IT (c) 2009
I’ve always known my boobs would be my downfall. There hasn’t been a day since my mom returned home with my first training bra—a size B, when I was 11!—that I haven’t wished the damn things would just fall off. But I must admit, some days they do have their advantages.
Others? Not so much.
On this particular day, I wanted nothing more than to get off work so I could lounge on my couch with a pint of Ben & Jerry’s. To say it had been a sh!t day would be an understatement. I was tired, sweaty, and not a little pissed off at life in general. Color me happy when John McCormick picked that day, of all days, to sidle up to me out of the shadows and ask me to go for a little ride. I wanted to tell him no. Hell, I wanted to tell him to f@ck off, but when duty called, I answered. I’m a professional after all, albeit a grumpy one.
My problems began when I slipped back inside the locker room, using the excuse that I had forgotten my cigarettes, and discovered my pants didn’t have any pockets. I stood in a stinking bathroom stall, mini-recorder in hand, and cursed at myself for being unprepared.
Regardless, I knew I couldn’t use this little snafu as an excuse.
Left with no other option, I did the only thing I could do. I jammed the recorder into the hollow between my breasts and prayed like hell that my bra would hold the small device in place. When I returned to McCormick, the weight and chill of the recorder against my skin, I immediately regretted my hasty decision. The man’s eyes began to drill holes into my chest at a distance of fifty feet, and they hadn’t strayed since.
“You drive,” he said, flicking his glance up to my face before dropping them back down to my chest.
I stifled my knee-jerk response and brushed past him without a word. When I was sure he couldn’t see, I rubbed the heel of my hand between my breasts, making sure the recorder was nice and snug in its hidey hole. It appeared secure enough, and I relaxed a notch—still on alert, but feeling more in control and prepared.
I’m such an idiot.
Not a minute after I parked my car down a deserted dirt road a few miles from the plant, the damn thing began to inch its way upward. It looked and felt like I was growing a third boob in the center of my chest.
Sh!t.
{end snip}
Happy writing everyone!
I've set a quasi-deadline for the opening chapters. Next week. LOL. Who knows, it could happen. I have readers waiting, so I better get crackin'.
I'm still putting together my playlist. It's coming along...slowly. LOL. I find that I'm not necessarily "inspired" by certain songs -- as least not in regards to a specific scene. That whole "hear a song and write a scene" thing just doesn't seem to be my bag. What I do find is that certain songs start my brain churning and ideas seem to come more readily when I'm listening to them. I have no idea why. My brain is weird. This has been established by now, yes?
The latest additions, and don't you DARE laugh! They show my age.
The first is 'Mercenary' by the Go-Go's. *blink*
I have no idea why, but when this song cranks through my iPod, story ideas start flowing. The lyrics don't necessarily pertain to the book itself...well, maybe in a distant way...but the fact that it's helping is just plain ole' weird.
And don't you dare make fun of me for liking the Go-Go's! You know you wanted to have The Beat when you were a kid. We all did.
Oh...love the clothes, love the dancing...love the solos. MMMM, the 80's. Alas, no Mercenary...but just as good.
The second is 'Hook' by Blues Traveler.
I've always loved this song and it seems to be sparking ideas. That's doubly awesome for me. :)
Know what's made of even more awesome? The fact that I recognize the guy on the couch -- he hosted Remote Control. Good Gawd, I'm old.
In celebration, I think it's time for a little teaser... hmm. The first page perhaps?
Excerpt from FAKING IT (c) 2009
I’ve always known my boobs would be my downfall. There hasn’t been a day since my mom returned home with my first training bra—a size B, when I was 11!—that I haven’t wished the damn things would just fall off. But I must admit, some days they do have their advantages.
Others? Not so much.
On this particular day, I wanted nothing more than to get off work so I could lounge on my couch with a pint of Ben & Jerry’s. To say it had been a sh!t day would be an understatement. I was tired, sweaty, and not a little pissed off at life in general. Color me happy when John McCormick picked that day, of all days, to sidle up to me out of the shadows and ask me to go for a little ride. I wanted to tell him no. Hell, I wanted to tell him to f@ck off, but when duty called, I answered. I’m a professional after all, albeit a grumpy one.
My problems began when I slipped back inside the locker room, using the excuse that I had forgotten my cigarettes, and discovered my pants didn’t have any pockets. I stood in a stinking bathroom stall, mini-recorder in hand, and cursed at myself for being unprepared.
Regardless, I knew I couldn’t use this little snafu as an excuse.
Left with no other option, I did the only thing I could do. I jammed the recorder into the hollow between my breasts and prayed like hell that my bra would hold the small device in place. When I returned to McCormick, the weight and chill of the recorder against my skin, I immediately regretted my hasty decision. The man’s eyes began to drill holes into my chest at a distance of fifty feet, and they hadn’t strayed since.
“You drive,” he said, flicking his glance up to my face before dropping them back down to my chest.
I stifled my knee-jerk response and brushed past him without a word. When I was sure he couldn’t see, I rubbed the heel of my hand between my breasts, making sure the recorder was nice and snug in its hidey hole. It appeared secure enough, and I relaxed a notch—still on alert, but feeling more in control and prepared.
I’m such an idiot.
Not a minute after I parked my car down a deserted dirt road a few miles from the plant, the damn thing began to inch its way upward. It looked and felt like I was growing a third boob in the center of my chest.
Sh!t.
{end snip}
Happy writing everyone!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
3 6 9 damn your fine, lemme come and kick it to ya one more time
By far the funniest search words I've seen in a long time. I can't believe that brought someone to my blog. Oh wait, yeah I can. (g)
And The Winner Is!!
BETH!!!!!!
Congratulations, Beth! You are the winner of a $20.00 B&N gift certificate. I fully expect you to go forth and worship Jen-style. :)
Have fun! It'll be in the mail soon.
Congratulations, Beth! You are the winner of a $20.00 B&N gift certificate. I fully expect you to go forth and worship Jen-style. :)
Have fun! It'll be in the mail soon.
The Answers!
Bwahahaha. This contest was great fun. You guys didn't get all of the answers, but it was fun watching you try. (g) Some of them were quite...unusual.
1. This bestselling book received these comments from me upon finishing: I liked the book despite the atrocious dialogue and despite disliking the characters immensely. (It's in the picture, if that helps.) THE TIME TRAVELERS'S WIFE by Audrey Niffenegger -- Kudos to Nina for being the only person to get this one right. (g) I still stand by that opinion, btw. The dialogue truly was atrocious. But the book? Awesome...for the most part, and despite the characters. Good job on getting this because I only made a brief mention of it and never did an actual review.
2. This author co-hosts a video blog with his brother. I heart him. John Green -- YAY, Tara for showing up and making a last minute save on this one. I didn't think anyone would get it and there are honestly times I feel like a John Green stalker. I thought it would be super easy, so my bad.
3. The name by which the author in question number 2 refers to his wife. The Yeti. (The meaning behind this is that she didn't want to be shown "on camera" for John and his brother, Hank's video blog. Therefore, he said there might be occasional "sightings" of the Yeti. And I will attest to seeing her hand a couple of times and hearing her voice. I think someone might pay big money for a picture of this creature, but I'm not really sure. I'm only speculating. Honest. It's pure speculation.
4. I've often told people--both known to me, as well as strangers on the street--that they need to read this book and/or listen to it on audio. It's narrated by death. THE BOOK THIEF by Markus Zusak. Yes. You must read/listen to this book. Seriously. Go now.
5. The number of books written by compuserve members. There are multiple books for some authors, please enter the TOTAL. (Be sure to study ALL of the pics carefully.) (For the new rules, name 'em. We'll do a countdown. There are 20 -- bonus points if you come up with 21, tho. :)) Okay, this is a biggie and no one got them all...and some of you *cough* Tara *cough* listed ones that mysteriously, aren't there... (g)
DEATH BY BIKINI by Linda Gerber
DEATH BY LATTE by Linda Gerber
DEATH BY DENIM by Linda Gerber
MS. ZEPHYR'S NOTEBOOK by kc Dyer
MY LORD AND SPYMASTER by Joanna Bourne
THE SPYMASTER'S LADY by Joanna Bourne
OUTLANDER by Diana Gabaldon
DRAGONFLY IN AMBER by Diana Gabaldon
VOYAGER by Diana Gabaldon
DRUMS OF AUTUMN by Diana Gabaldon
THE SCENT OF SHADOWS by Vicki Pettersson
THE TASTE OF NIGHT by Vicki Pettersson
THE TOUCH OF TWILIGHT by Vicki Pettersson (I also have CITY OF SOULS now, bought after the contest began)
COST OF FREEDOM by Carol Spradling
LORD JOHN AND THE PRIVATE MATTER by Diana Gabaldon
THE OUTLANDISH COMPANIION by Diana Gabaldon (still haven't even cracked that one!)
THE FIERY CROSS by Diana Gabaldon
A BREATH OF SNOW AND ASHES by Diana Gabaldon
LORD JOHN AND THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE BLADE by Diana Gabaldon
SUSPICION by Barbara Rogan (kudos to Nina again, she was the only one to spot this one in the VERY corner of the picture of the desk)
And there are actually two bonus books -- FAKING IT (g) I know it's not published, but there you go. It was there in the picture. And though some of you may not realize it, Beth's book, THE KNIFE GIVER, is there, too. It's bound and pretty, and resting on the 2nd shelf of the small bookshelf next to the desk. It's fairly nondescript on the outside, so you can see even Beth failed to see it. LOL. But NEENER, I have it!! :)
6. Name the two books that have multiple copies shown. (Hint: each have two, not all the same size.) Kudos to Tara for getting one of the books -- HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX. I have both the paper and hardback versions. The second is a bit more obscure: THE SECRET CIRCLE (part II, no less) by L.J. Smith. Yeah, that was a really hard one. (g)
7. This author tells a very convincing tale regarding a certain HP author. According to this author, J.K. Rowling has kidnapped Alan Rickman and is holding him hostage in her basement. I'm not sure why. At any rate, name two books I own by this author. Extra points if you can get them all. Kudos to Tara for getting the author -- Maureen Johnson. I still have no idea why she's spreading these stories, but I'm sure there must be a high foundation of truth involved. FREE ALAN RICKMAN, J.K. Rowling!! FREE HIM! *cough* Extra points for her books, which no one got: DEVILISH, SUITE SCARLETT, THE BERMUDEZ TRIANGLE, 13 LITTLE BLUE ENVELOPES, and LET IT SNOW, which contains a short by Maureen, one from John Green (I heart him), and one from Lauren Myracle.
8. This author has a serious affection for Lady Ga-Ga. If she has one aspiration in life, it's probably to be sparkly. Name her book. Okay, this one was tough. Looking back, I don't think I've ever mentioned her affection for all things Ga-Ga on this blog. But I have mentioned her and her book, and I provided some great Christmas entertainment when I had her doing some jigs with the cast of TWILIGHT. Her name is Courtney Summers, and her book, CRACKED UP TO BE is AWESOME. Go forth and read.
9. The movie version of this book starred the great Laurence Olivier and Joan Fontaine as the little fool. REBECCA by Daphne du Maurier. Awesome book, awesome movie. Kudos to Beth for being the first to answer, though you used alternative methods to arrive at it. *cough* (g) (Little known fact -- Joan Fontaine's character was NEVER given a name. No one ever refers to her by it, and often she's known as the little fool. I thought it was this great method of deperonalizing her and making the book all about Rebecca -- alas, reading du Maurier's bio, I learned that she never named her because she couldn't think of a name, and decided just to leave it at that. Goes to show how awesome some mistakes can turn out to be in the end.)
10. This author just had her 15th book come out in her long-running series. (Which reminds me I need to go out an get it!) Extra points if you can name the lead female, and two lead male characters. Pretty much everyone got this one. My, I don't know how...it was so tough. (g) The book is FINGER LICKIN' FIFTEEN by Janet Evanovich, and the characters are Stephanie Plum, Joe Morelli, and Carlos Manoso (aka Ranger).
11. I, very recently, said I want to BE this author. Scott Westerfeld. (Not Westerberg, Deniz -- though that was very close. (g)) I really do want to be him. Love his books. LOVE love love LOOOOVE his books.
12. Name his books as shown. (1 pt. for each book) I think all but one of these were named.
UGLIES
PRETTIES
SPECIALS
THE SECRET HOUR
TOUGHING DARKNESS
BLUE NOON
THE LAST DAYS
PEEPS
SO YESTERDAY (this one was tucked on a different shelf, which is prolly why it got overlooked (snrk--I know, I know, the pictures sucked big time. I'm amazed you guys got any of the picture related questions. (g))
THANK YOU guys so much for playing along! It was fun!!! :)
Winner to be announced momentarily. (i.e. as soon as I can find paper to do a drawing with.)
1. This bestselling book received these comments from me upon finishing: I liked the book despite the atrocious dialogue and despite disliking the characters immensely. (It's in the picture, if that helps.) THE TIME TRAVELERS'S WIFE by Audrey Niffenegger -- Kudos to Nina for being the only person to get this one right. (g) I still stand by that opinion, btw. The dialogue truly was atrocious. But the book? Awesome...for the most part, and despite the characters. Good job on getting this because I only made a brief mention of it and never did an actual review.
2. This author co-hosts a video blog with his brother. I heart him. John Green -- YAY, Tara for showing up and making a last minute save on this one. I didn't think anyone would get it and there are honestly times I feel like a John Green stalker. I thought it would be super easy, so my bad.
3. The name by which the author in question number 2 refers to his wife. The Yeti. (The meaning behind this is that she didn't want to be shown "on camera" for John and his brother, Hank's video blog. Therefore, he said there might be occasional "sightings" of the Yeti. And I will attest to seeing her hand a couple of times and hearing her voice. I think someone might pay big money for a picture of this creature, but I'm not really sure. I'm only speculating. Honest. It's pure speculation.
4. I've often told people--both known to me, as well as strangers on the street--that they need to read this book and/or listen to it on audio. It's narrated by death. THE BOOK THIEF by Markus Zusak. Yes. You must read/listen to this book. Seriously. Go now.
5. The number of books written by compuserve members. There are multiple books for some authors, please enter the TOTAL. (Be sure to study ALL of the pics carefully.) (For the new rules, name 'em. We'll do a countdown. There are 20 -- bonus points if you come up with 21, tho. :)) Okay, this is a biggie and no one got them all...and some of you *cough* Tara *cough* listed ones that mysteriously, aren't there... (g)
DEATH BY BIKINI by Linda Gerber
DEATH BY LATTE by Linda Gerber
DEATH BY DENIM by Linda Gerber
MS. ZEPHYR'S NOTEBOOK by kc Dyer
MY LORD AND SPYMASTER by Joanna Bourne
THE SPYMASTER'S LADY by Joanna Bourne
OUTLANDER by Diana Gabaldon
DRAGONFLY IN AMBER by Diana Gabaldon
VOYAGER by Diana Gabaldon
DRUMS OF AUTUMN by Diana Gabaldon
THE SCENT OF SHADOWS by Vicki Pettersson
THE TASTE OF NIGHT by Vicki Pettersson
THE TOUCH OF TWILIGHT by Vicki Pettersson (I also have CITY OF SOULS now, bought after the contest began)
COST OF FREEDOM by Carol Spradling
LORD JOHN AND THE PRIVATE MATTER by Diana Gabaldon
THE OUTLANDISH COMPANIION by Diana Gabaldon (still haven't even cracked that one!)
THE FIERY CROSS by Diana Gabaldon
A BREATH OF SNOW AND ASHES by Diana Gabaldon
LORD JOHN AND THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE BLADE by Diana Gabaldon
SUSPICION by Barbara Rogan (kudos to Nina again, she was the only one to spot this one in the VERY corner of the picture of the desk)
And there are actually two bonus books -- FAKING IT (g) I know it's not published, but there you go. It was there in the picture. And though some of you may not realize it, Beth's book, THE KNIFE GIVER, is there, too. It's bound and pretty, and resting on the 2nd shelf of the small bookshelf next to the desk. It's fairly nondescript on the outside, so you can see even Beth failed to see it. LOL. But NEENER, I have it!! :)
6. Name the two books that have multiple copies shown. (Hint: each have two, not all the same size.) Kudos to Tara for getting one of the books -- HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX. I have both the paper and hardback versions. The second is a bit more obscure: THE SECRET CIRCLE (part II, no less) by L.J. Smith. Yeah, that was a really hard one. (g)
7. This author tells a very convincing tale regarding a certain HP author. According to this author, J.K. Rowling has kidnapped Alan Rickman and is holding him hostage in her basement. I'm not sure why. At any rate, name two books I own by this author. Extra points if you can get them all. Kudos to Tara for getting the author -- Maureen Johnson. I still have no idea why she's spreading these stories, but I'm sure there must be a high foundation of truth involved. FREE ALAN RICKMAN, J.K. Rowling!! FREE HIM! *cough* Extra points for her books, which no one got: DEVILISH, SUITE SCARLETT, THE BERMUDEZ TRIANGLE, 13 LITTLE BLUE ENVELOPES, and LET IT SNOW, which contains a short by Maureen, one from John Green (I heart him), and one from Lauren Myracle.
8. This author has a serious affection for Lady Ga-Ga. If she has one aspiration in life, it's probably to be sparkly. Name her book. Okay, this one was tough. Looking back, I don't think I've ever mentioned her affection for all things Ga-Ga on this blog. But I have mentioned her and her book, and I provided some great Christmas entertainment when I had her doing some jigs with the cast of TWILIGHT. Her name is Courtney Summers, and her book, CRACKED UP TO BE is AWESOME. Go forth and read.
9. The movie version of this book starred the great Laurence Olivier and Joan Fontaine as the little fool. REBECCA by Daphne du Maurier. Awesome book, awesome movie. Kudos to Beth for being the first to answer, though you used alternative methods to arrive at it. *cough* (g) (Little known fact -- Joan Fontaine's character was NEVER given a name. No one ever refers to her by it, and often she's known as the little fool. I thought it was this great method of deperonalizing her and making the book all about Rebecca -- alas, reading du Maurier's bio, I learned that she never named her because she couldn't think of a name, and decided just to leave it at that. Goes to show how awesome some mistakes can turn out to be in the end.)
10. This author just had her 15th book come out in her long-running series. (Which reminds me I need to go out an get it!) Extra points if you can name the lead female, and two lead male characters. Pretty much everyone got this one. My, I don't know how...it was so tough. (g) The book is FINGER LICKIN' FIFTEEN by Janet Evanovich, and the characters are Stephanie Plum, Joe Morelli, and Carlos Manoso (aka Ranger).
11. I, very recently, said I want to BE this author. Scott Westerfeld. (Not Westerberg, Deniz -- though that was very close. (g)) I really do want to be him. Love his books. LOVE love love LOOOOVE his books.
12. Name his books as shown. (1 pt. for each book) I think all but one of these were named.
UGLIES
PRETTIES
SPECIALS
THE SECRET HOUR
TOUGHING DARKNESS
BLUE NOON
THE LAST DAYS
PEEPS
SO YESTERDAY (this one was tucked on a different shelf, which is prolly why it got overlooked (snrk--I know, I know, the pictures sucked big time. I'm amazed you guys got any of the picture related questions. (g))
THANK YOU guys so much for playing along! It was fun!!! :)
Winner to be announced momentarily. (i.e. as soon as I can find paper to do a drawing with.)
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
I'm Not Edward Cullen: A Song
Stolen from John Green's blog.
Can I just say that Hank Green is one of the funniest guys I've ever run across. Who thinks of this stuff?? Hank. Hank does. That's who.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Oh The Ideas!
There are too many ideas in this head of mine. I've had _another_ story idea bubble up today and I REALLY like it. Funny thing? I have absolutely no idea how to begin, and I'm pretty sure I haven't a shot in h#ll of pulling it off.
Of course, that has me super excited, because honestly, there's nothing I love more than a challenge.
The inspiration for this one?? A song. Coupled with a graffiti riddled sign I drove past this morning.
Who would've thunk it...
Seriously. There's nothing better in this world--nothing I love more--than being a storyteller. I think I'll stick. :)
Of course, that has me super excited, because honestly, there's nothing I love more than a challenge.
The inspiration for this one?? A song. Coupled with a graffiti riddled sign I drove past this morning.
Who would've thunk it...
Seriously. There's nothing better in this world--nothing I love more--than being a storyteller. I think I'll stick. :)
Calling Tara! Tara Come In!
Girl -- get thee down to my contest thread. I KNOW you know some of those more obscure answers. Come on. It's a gift certificate to MY CHURCH.
And Carrie! I know you're there -- enter already.
That goes for the rest of you peeking at it all the time! :)
And Carrie! I know you're there -- enter already.
That goes for the rest of you peeking at it all the time! :)
Monday, July 6, 2009
Back And Exhausted
I've actually been back since Friday. It's just that life hasn't slowed down since then. I feel like I could sleep for a week, but there's No Time for such things! Must write. Must post this month's exercise at the forum. Must do a bazillion things that do not involve pillows and blankets...and ack.. yeah, NEED SLEEP.
Hope everyone is doing well! If you haven't entered my win a B&N gift certificate for doing absolutely nothing, and just because I want to celebrate books contest, then what are you waiting for?? :) Seriously, leave your name in the comments and get tossed into the drawing. If you can answer some of the questions -- BONUS. :)
Okay, Must Write.
Hope everyone is doing well! If you haven't entered my win a B&N gift certificate for doing absolutely nothing, and just because I want to celebrate books contest, then what are you waiting for?? :) Seriously, leave your name in the comments and get tossed into the drawing. If you can answer some of the questions -- BONUS. :)
Okay, Must Write.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Out!
I'm off to my grandfather's house again. I'll be back tomorrow, though most of my time will be taken up with the parental.
Keep the contest going -- and please, if you don't know any answers, enter anyway. :) The more the merrier, and it's really just a joint effort to answer all of the questions. Spread the word!
Keep the contest going -- and please, if you don't know any answers, enter anyway. :) The more the merrier, and it's really just a joint effort to answer all of the questions. Spread the word!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
CONTEST!!
It's official. My office is unpacked! I've never been so relieved. I can see my desk, I can see my floor, and I can see all of my sparkly books. :)
Some pics (of varying degrees of blurriness. I really need a new camera.)
My sparkly new bookshelves! Look at the room I have left over! You know what that means...time for a worship session!
Where the magic is gonna happen. :) If you look to the left, you'll see FI in all it's glory. Okay, so it's in tattered bits, all paper clipped and cut up, but it's there. That's the important thing.
You'll notice I have all of the important writing tools...a desk...a chair...juggling beanies for brainstorming sessions...
The wires are a little out of control behind my desk, but that's a job for another day.
That's my paperback bookshelf. It's stacked two rows deep. I still have several tubs under my bed that need to be added, hence the space at the bottom. You'll notice my very own "My Lord and Spymaster" mug at the bottom right corner. Jealous? :)
In celebration, I thought I'd hold a little contest. Plus, by writing up these questions, I'm able to procrastinate on those bathroom/kitchen floors. :) It's going to be a LONG night.
Okay, DA Rules are simple:
1. Answer the following questions to the best of your ability. The person who gets the most answers correct will win a gift certificate to my church (aka Barnes & Noble), denomination to be determined. (Nina pointed out a flaw in my otherwise brilliant plan. If you Do Not have a B&N in your area/country, do still enter. I'll come up with an equally cool prize. Okay, maybe nothing is quite as cool as a B&N certificate, but I'll try.) If I have a lot of entries, you can betcha I'll make it worth it. I'll be honest, if you read my blog, you may have a slight advantage with them. Then again, you may end up more confused. In the end, it's probably a fairly equal playing field.
2. A CHANGE: Answer in the comments section. I'll make this a random drawing instead. Why? Because I think my pictures are crap, and my references maybe a little too obscure in some questions. If together you can answer most of these questions, then awesome. :) I'll be interested to see if all of them are puzzled out. (g)
3. Enter by next Friday, July 10th, 12am CST. I will announce the winner promptly, or when I wake up. I'd count on the latter.
4. Link it to your blog. The more the merrier!
On to the questions!
1. This bestselling book received these comments from me upon finishing: I liked the book despite the atrocious dialogue and despite disliking the characters immensely. (It's in the picture, if that helps.)
2. This author co-hosts a video blog with his brother. I heart him.
3. The name by which the author in question number 2 refers to his wife.
4. I've often told people--both known to me, as well as strangers on the street--that they need to read this book and/or listen to it on audio. It's narrated by death.
5. The number of books written by compuserve members. There are multiple books for some authors, please enter the TOTAL. (Be sure to study ALL of the pics carefully.) (For the new rules, name 'em. We'll do a countdown. There are 20 -- bonus points if you come up with 21, tho. :))
6. Name the two books that have multiple copies shown. (Hint: each have two, not all the same size.)
7. This author tells a very convincing tale regarding a certain HP author. According to this author, J.K. Rowling has kidnapped Alan Rickman and is holding him hostage in her basement. I'm not sure why. At any rate, name two books I own by this author. Extra points if you can get them all.
8. This author has a serious affection for Lady Ga-Ga. If she has one aspiration in life, it's probably to be sparkly. Name her book.
9. The movie version of this book starred the great Laurence Olivier and Joan Fontaine as the little fool.
10. This author just had her 15th book come out in her long-running series. (Which reminds me I need to go out an get it!) Extra points if you can name the lead female, and two lead male characters.
11. I, very recently, said I want to BE this author.
12. Name his books as shown. (1 pt. for each book)
Okay, that adds up to...hmmm, a lot of points. I'll tally 'em up later. :)
Off you go -- and good luck!
Some pics (of varying degrees of blurriness. I really need a new camera.)
My sparkly new bookshelves! Look at the room I have left over! You know what that means...time for a worship session!
Where the magic is gonna happen. :) If you look to the left, you'll see FI in all it's glory. Okay, so it's in tattered bits, all paper clipped and cut up, but it's there. That's the important thing.
You'll notice I have all of the important writing tools...a desk...a chair...juggling beanies for brainstorming sessions...
The wires are a little out of control behind my desk, but that's a job for another day.
That's my paperback bookshelf. It's stacked two rows deep. I still have several tubs under my bed that need to be added, hence the space at the bottom. You'll notice my very own "My Lord and Spymaster" mug at the bottom right corner. Jealous? :)
In celebration, I thought I'd hold a little contest. Plus, by writing up these questions, I'm able to procrastinate on those bathroom/kitchen floors. :) It's going to be a LONG night.
Okay, DA Rules are simple:
1. Answer the following questions to the best of your ability. The person who gets the most answers correct will win a gift certificate to my church (aka Barnes & Noble), denomination to be determined. (Nina pointed out a flaw in my otherwise brilliant plan. If you Do Not have a B&N in your area/country, do still enter. I'll come up with an equally cool prize. Okay, maybe nothing is quite as cool as a B&N certificate, but I'll try.) If I have a lot of entries, you can betcha I'll make it worth it. I'll be honest, if you read my blog, you may have a slight advantage with them. Then again, you may end up more confused. In the end, it's probably a fairly equal playing field.
2. A CHANGE: Answer in the comments section. I'll make this a random drawing instead. Why? Because I think my pictures are crap, and my references maybe a little too obscure in some questions. If together you can answer most of these questions, then awesome. :) I'll be interested to see if all of them are puzzled out. (g)
3. Enter by next Friday, July 10th, 12am CST. I will announce the winner promptly, or when I wake up. I'd count on the latter.
4. Link it to your blog. The more the merrier!
On to the questions!
1. This bestselling book received these comments from me upon finishing: I liked the book despite the atrocious dialogue and despite disliking the characters immensely. (It's in the picture, if that helps.)
2. This author co-hosts a video blog with his brother. I heart him.
3. The name by which the author in question number 2 refers to his wife.
4. I've often told people--both known to me, as well as strangers on the street--that they need to read this book and/or listen to it on audio. It's narrated by death.
5. The number of books written by compuserve members. There are multiple books for some authors, please enter the TOTAL. (Be sure to study ALL of the pics carefully.) (For the new rules, name 'em. We'll do a countdown. There are 20 -- bonus points if you come up with 21, tho. :))
6. Name the two books that have multiple copies shown. (Hint: each have two, not all the same size.)
7. This author tells a very convincing tale regarding a certain HP author. According to this author, J.K. Rowling has kidnapped Alan Rickman and is holding him hostage in her basement. I'm not sure why. At any rate, name two books I own by this author. Extra points if you can get them all.
8. This author has a serious affection for Lady Ga-Ga. If she has one aspiration in life, it's probably to be sparkly. Name her book.
9. The movie version of this book starred the great Laurence Olivier and Joan Fontaine as the little fool.
10. This author just had her 15th book come out in her long-running series. (Which reminds me I need to go out an get it!) Extra points if you can name the lead female, and two lead male characters.
11. I, very recently, said I want to BE this author.
12. Name his books as shown. (1 pt. for each book)
Okay, that adds up to...hmmm, a lot of points. I'll tally 'em up later. :)
Off you go -- and good luck!
I Am A Child O' Stuff
As my grandfather always says, "I've got stuff."
A lot of it.
Seriously, nothing makes you examine your life more than when you're forced to unpack boxes you haven't touched for years.
As I'm sure you know by now, my mother is incoming. In fact, she's due in tomorrow night. And I gotta tell ya, my apartment ain't lookin' great.
In fact, I'm praying I can make it half decent before she gets here! I had no idea I had so much (pardon my French)--shit. Good grief. Do I throw nothing away?? Apparently not. :) That is changing, starting with this move. I've already tossed a lot of stuff, given a good chunk to charity, and I'm not even close to being finished. I'm going to purge -- big time. If that means going through stuff one box at a time and saying aloud, "Do I NEED this?" That is what I'm prepared to do.
Do you know I have no less than _four_ computers?? Yes. Four. You read that right. I have an old PC from my undergrad days and three laptops. One is nearly in pieces, but I haven't taken any time aside to go through the hard drive to purge anything I might need. Granted, after all of this time (hmmm, maybe 4 years since I last used it regularly), most of it is probably defunct anyway. But I don't KNOW that, so I still have it. Same goes for laptop #2, though I use it a lot more. But really, I don't NEED it. And don't get me started on the PC. I need to throw that dinosaur away -- but how can I when it works??
Ack. I need help. Medical intervention. Something.
Okay, once FI is finished, which from my lips to God's ears, will happen this month, I'm on a mission. First and foremost, I will rid myself of at least two of those dang computers. And any random printers, VCR's, DVD players, etc. that I'm not using. It's so ridiculous, you guys. And....yes, I think it's time to purge some books. *gasps and cries* Yes, it must be done. And I will also rid myself of VHS and audio cassettes! Why do I NEED them? Technically I don't really need my CD's either (yay for a little thing called iPod), but I think I might be asking a little too much of myself with those.
In the end, you know what this post is really about, don't you? Procrastination. I don't want to clean anymore.
*sob*
A lot of it.
Seriously, nothing makes you examine your life more than when you're forced to unpack boxes you haven't touched for years.
As I'm sure you know by now, my mother is incoming. In fact, she's due in tomorrow night. And I gotta tell ya, my apartment ain't lookin' great.
In fact, I'm praying I can make it half decent before she gets here! I had no idea I had so much (pardon my French)--shit. Good grief. Do I throw nothing away?? Apparently not. :) That is changing, starting with this move. I've already tossed a lot of stuff, given a good chunk to charity, and I'm not even close to being finished. I'm going to purge -- big time. If that means going through stuff one box at a time and saying aloud, "Do I NEED this?" That is what I'm prepared to do.
Do you know I have no less than _four_ computers?? Yes. Four. You read that right. I have an old PC from my undergrad days and three laptops. One is nearly in pieces, but I haven't taken any time aside to go through the hard drive to purge anything I might need. Granted, after all of this time (hmmm, maybe 4 years since I last used it regularly), most of it is probably defunct anyway. But I don't KNOW that, so I still have it. Same goes for laptop #2, though I use it a lot more. But really, I don't NEED it. And don't get me started on the PC. I need to throw that dinosaur away -- but how can I when it works??
Ack. I need help. Medical intervention. Something.
Okay, once FI is finished, which from my lips to God's ears, will happen this month, I'm on a mission. First and foremost, I will rid myself of at least two of those dang computers. And any random printers, VCR's, DVD players, etc. that I'm not using. It's so ridiculous, you guys. And....yes, I think it's time to purge some books. *gasps and cries* Yes, it must be done. And I will also rid myself of VHS and audio cassettes! Why do I NEED them? Technically I don't really need my CD's either (yay for a little thing called iPod), but I think I might be asking a little too much of myself with those.
In the end, you know what this post is really about, don't you? Procrastination. I don't want to clean anymore.
*sob*
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