Guess what I’m doing tomorrow? I’m running (or maybe speed-walking) my first ever 5k. It’s called Coopers Run, which is a great cause, so of course I’m looking forward to it. Well, mostly.
First problem: I am not a runner. Never been a runner. Therefore, I will very probably be somewhat slow.
Granted, I spend a lot of time at the gym. Always have. And I have been running lately, which is why I was okay with this. But the truth is, running is not my favorite form of exercise. (And yes, believe it or not, I DO like to work out.)
Second problem: I will be running this 5k with a whole lot of police officers (and some wives) who happen to be my husband’s peers, and who are required to pass a twice-yearly physical fitness test which involves running. Some of these guys run marathons for fun on their days off. I am not joking.
Also, my two very athletic daughters, who will undoubtedly leave me in the dust from the beginning.
But again, I’m okay with this. Even if I get left behind and am the absolute last person to cross the finish line (which, FYI, I severely doubt. I’m in decent enough shape that I could walk it in a decent time), I will still be glad I did it. Because once I finish, I will do so knowing that I gave it my all.
That’s really the crux of everything, isn’t it? It doesn’t necessarily matter who gets there first, or who comes in last, or which of us stagger through somewhere in between, so much as it matters that we dedicate ourselves to a higher purpose and give it everything we’ve got.
It’s really the only way to be successful in this world.
Wish me luck!
Friday, July 29, 2011
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Bigger isn't Always Better
Oh my gosh you guys. The other day at the store, we found these marshmallows that are like, bigger than my whole hand. Seriously. The things are HUGE. Almost look like mini pillows. They’re called campfire marshmallows, and were on a s’mores display with chocolate bars and graham crackers.
Of course I had to buy them. I mean, who wouldn’t want to try roasting a giant marshmallow?
So we took those babies home and lit a fire in our backyard fire pit. Turns out, this was one of those cases in which bigger wasn’t better. The outsides cooked at about the same rate as that of regular sized marshmallows, but the insides took quite a bit longer, meaning that in order to cook them all the way through to s’mores perfection, either the outside was burned, or the inside was too solid.
Maybe it was just us. I’m certain that there are people in the world who will never go back to the regular sized marshmallows again. But I think we’re going to stick to our tried and true version so we’re able to cook them to exactly the right gooey crispness.
Because some things life are so good that trying to improve them will only make things messy. Don’t you agree?
Of course I had to buy them. I mean, who wouldn’t want to try roasting a giant marshmallow?
So we took those babies home and lit a fire in our backyard fire pit. Turns out, this was one of those cases in which bigger wasn’t better. The outsides cooked at about the same rate as that of regular sized marshmallows, but the insides took quite a bit longer, meaning that in order to cook them all the way through to s’mores perfection, either the outside was burned, or the inside was too solid.
Maybe it was just us. I’m certain that there are people in the world who will never go back to the regular sized marshmallows again. But I think we’re going to stick to our tried and true version so we’re able to cook them to exactly the right gooey crispness.
Because some things life are so good that trying to improve them will only make things messy. Don’t you agree?
Monday, July 25, 2011
Sometimes You Have to Get Wet
A couple weeks ago we took our daughters and a bunch of their friends boating. Just as we got to the lake and paid to park my car (took 2 because we had so many kids with us), the sky opened up and it rained on us. Because we were at a reservoir surrounded by mountains, we didn’t have the advantage of being able to see very far in any direction, so there was no way to know if this was going to be a long storm, or if it would pass quickly.
At this point, we had a few choices. We could a) turn around and go home or b) huddle in the car and wait or c) take the travel covers off the boat and prepare to launch, hoping the storm would pass.
We chose to prepare for launch and hope for the best.
David Wolverton (aka Farland) once told me a story of a time when the publishing industry struggled to hold on. After several very lean, dry years, many authors gave up their craft and found other jobs. During that time, some authors stopped writing altogether, while others kept writing, but nothing of much value, believing that the opportunity to publish books had passed. One particular author never quit. Indeed, he kept writing as vigorously as he always had.
Many years passed. Guess what happened? The publishing industry pulled out of the funk it had been in, and agents and publishers looked hungrily for publishable works. While everyone else scrambled to get back into the writing game, the author who never quit now had something like 20 manuscripts polished and ready for submission.
Guess who had the best success rate?
At the lake that day, we ran through the rain, pulled the covers off the boat and loaded our gear. Wouldn’t you know it, ten minutes later, the rain let up and the sunshine came out to push the clouds away. We spent four or five hours as one of maybe 3 boats out there, and had some very happy kids.
Storms and famines will come. And it may take some time, but eventually they always pass. So today I ask a rhetorical question. Will you be the one packing up and leaving before you ever really started? Or will you get wet uncovering the boat while you wait?
Yeah, that’s what I thought. Better get to work then!
At this point, we had a few choices. We could a) turn around and go home or b) huddle in the car and wait or c) take the travel covers off the boat and prepare to launch, hoping the storm would pass.
We chose to prepare for launch and hope for the best.
David Wolverton (aka Farland) once told me a story of a time when the publishing industry struggled to hold on. After several very lean, dry years, many authors gave up their craft and found other jobs. During that time, some authors stopped writing altogether, while others kept writing, but nothing of much value, believing that the opportunity to publish books had passed. One particular author never quit. Indeed, he kept writing as vigorously as he always had.
Many years passed. Guess what happened? The publishing industry pulled out of the funk it had been in, and agents and publishers looked hungrily for publishable works. While everyone else scrambled to get back into the writing game, the author who never quit now had something like 20 manuscripts polished and ready for submission.
Guess who had the best success rate?
At the lake that day, we ran through the rain, pulled the covers off the boat and loaded our gear. Wouldn’t you know it, ten minutes later, the rain let up and the sunshine came out to push the clouds away. We spent four or five hours as one of maybe 3 boats out there, and had some very happy kids.
Storms and famines will come. And it may take some time, but eventually they always pass. So today I ask a rhetorical question. Will you be the one packing up and leaving before you ever really started? Or will you get wet uncovering the boat while you wait?
Yeah, that’s what I thought. Better get to work then!
Friday, July 22, 2011
Because They ALL Matter
By now you all probably know I had a birthday last week. (No, I will not tell you how old I am because it would totally ruin the illusion I have going on about that. Besides, age isn’t the point.)
Ever since I joined Facebook, I’ve discovered that my online friends are thoughtful people who remember the special days every year. Granted, you can’t miss those little reminders, but still. Every single birthday wish is thoughtful nonetheless.
Those people (even if I can’t really see their faces in the itty-bitty avatar box) took a small piece of valuable time to wish me happy birthday. ME. Even the ones who don’t know me IRL. I appreciate that. I am grateful for each person who is willing to take that time.
So on that day when I had a couple hundred birthday wishes, I wrote a couple hundred thank you replies. If I’d had a thousand, or ten thousand wishes, I would have written that many thank yous.
Someone suggested just write a blanket thank you on my own wall (as most people do—and which is a perfectly acceptable way to say thanks to a thousand people at a time—I’m totally not criticizing that practice, cuz a thank you in any form is always valuable). But I couldn’t bring myself to do that. For some reason, I felt it important to take a piece of my valuable time to thank each person individually. Because when it comes right down to it, each one of the people making those wishes matters to me.
Just as each one of my readers matters. I once told some author friends that I will never turn away a reader wanting their book signed, even when my hands are cramped and arthritic and screaming in pain. That’s not who I am. I value every single individual fan.
I believe that NO ONE on this earth gets where they are without help. For authors, readers are a large part of that help. I intend to do my very best to never ever forget their contribution.
On the day when I end up with half a million screaming fans waiting in a line that stretches across the city, I invite you all to question my sanity. (I do it every day.) But if that ever happens, I guess I’ll get to brag that I broke David Farland’s world record. And dang, I’d be ever-so proud.
Ever since I joined Facebook, I’ve discovered that my online friends are thoughtful people who remember the special days every year. Granted, you can’t miss those little reminders, but still. Every single birthday wish is thoughtful nonetheless.
Those people (even if I can’t really see their faces in the itty-bitty avatar box) took a small piece of valuable time to wish me happy birthday. ME. Even the ones who don’t know me IRL. I appreciate that. I am grateful for each person who is willing to take that time.
So on that day when I had a couple hundred birthday wishes, I wrote a couple hundred thank you replies. If I’d had a thousand, or ten thousand wishes, I would have written that many thank yous.
Someone suggested just write a blanket thank you on my own wall (as most people do—and which is a perfectly acceptable way to say thanks to a thousand people at a time—I’m totally not criticizing that practice, cuz a thank you in any form is always valuable). But I couldn’t bring myself to do that. For some reason, I felt it important to take a piece of my valuable time to thank each person individually. Because when it comes right down to it, each one of the people making those wishes matters to me.
Just as each one of my readers matters. I once told some author friends that I will never turn away a reader wanting their book signed, even when my hands are cramped and arthritic and screaming in pain. That’s not who I am. I value every single individual fan.
I believe that NO ONE on this earth gets where they are without help. For authors, readers are a large part of that help. I intend to do my very best to never ever forget their contribution.
On the day when I end up with half a million screaming fans waiting in a line that stretches across the city, I invite you all to question my sanity. (I do it every day.) But if that ever happens, I guess I’ll get to brag that I broke David Farland’s world record. And dang, I’d be ever-so proud.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Story of the Scary Poisonous Creature with Enormous Teeth
Living with Teens can occasionally be amusing. And it's always entertaining. For example, take a recent experience.
We’re driving down the road with Happy, Smiley (Happy’s friend) and Sneezy in the back seat of our truck, when out of the blue, terrified screaming from behind us nearly causes my husband to swerve into another lane (yes, there was a car there).
Them: screaming and squealing like girls
Me: What? Is it a Spider?
Happy: No, it's a...a...slug and it's COMING CLOSER! *squeals again*
Husband: How did a slug get in my truck?
Sneezy: That's not a slug, it's a long furry thing with HUGE TEETH.
Smiley: Maybe it’s a snail.
Me: Whatever it is, it doesn't have teeth, I promise.
Happy: Stop the truck, stop the truck, STOP THE TRUCK! *practically climbs into sister’s lap*
Husband (after pulling over and dispatching the creature): Um, that’s not a slug or a snail. it's just a caterpillar. I set it free.
Smiley: You think that was scary, you should see when they turn into butterflies.
If you’ve read anything I’ve written about Happy and Sneezy, you know that they aren’t afraid of much. For girls, they’re pretty dang tough, sports-minded, and completely athletic. But when it comes right down to it, they’re still girls. As evident from the above story, not just in their love of clothes, shoes, and jewelry. Proof positive that people are truly complex.
And that, my friends, is why I write young adult literature, and also why I prefer to read it.
We’re driving down the road with Happy, Smiley (Happy’s friend) and Sneezy in the back seat of our truck, when out of the blue, terrified screaming from behind us nearly causes my husband to swerve into another lane (yes, there was a car there).
Them: screaming and squealing like girls
Me: What? Is it a Spider?
Happy: No, it's a...a...slug and it's COMING CLOSER! *squeals again*
Husband: How did a slug get in my truck?
Sneezy: That's not a slug, it's a long furry thing with HUGE TEETH.
Smiley: Maybe it’s a snail.
Me: Whatever it is, it doesn't have teeth, I promise.
Happy: Stop the truck, stop the truck, STOP THE TRUCK! *practically climbs into sister’s lap*
Husband (after pulling over and dispatching the creature): Um, that’s not a slug or a snail. it's just a caterpillar. I set it free.
Smiley: You think that was scary, you should see when they turn into butterflies.
If you’ve read anything I’ve written about Happy and Sneezy, you know that they aren’t afraid of much. For girls, they’re pretty dang tough, sports-minded, and completely athletic. But when it comes right down to it, they’re still girls. As evident from the above story, not just in their love of clothes, shoes, and jewelry. Proof positive that people are truly complex.
And that, my friends, is why I write young adult literature, and also why I prefer to read it.
Monday, July 18, 2011
Floodgates to the Return of Brilliance
Do you ever feel like quitting something you love? I did. This summer, I decided to take a break from writing. Summer is crazy busy. Especially July. And I just wasn’t motivated to write at the time. I had no good ideas, no thoughts on how to continue with certain works, nada. Zip. Zilch. So. I did it. I quit.
Wouldn’t you know it, during the craziest, busiest months, months when I don’t even have much reading time, I end up with my best ideas. New ideas, ideas on how to fix old manuscripts, ideas on ways to cut in more polished ones…IDEAS! Hooray and yay and happy dancing for ideas.
The notebook by my bed has been recently used in the middle of the night, without a light (also with a pen that ran out of ink, apparently). The notes feature on my phone, my voice recorder, and also napkins and receipts in my purse have been handy. And I have had some computer writing time. Just not as much as I want.
Three weeks ago, I told my critique group, some family members, and a number of other people that I was taking the summer off from writing. And when I made that claim, I meant it. I needed a break. My brain was stressed. Fried, even. So I gave myself permission to stop (temporarily).
And I did stop. For like, four days. And then the floodgates opened. And now that I’ve scheduled myself almost no writing time, I really wish I had some.
The moral of the story? The next time you’re tempted to temporarily quit, do it. Sometimes all it takes is to relieve a little bit of pressure before the brilliance returns full force. And let me just tell you now—that brilliance is as bright as the summer sun.
*sings praises to the elements* Hallelujah!
Gotta go. I have manuscripts to work on.
Wouldn’t you know it, during the craziest, busiest months, months when I don’t even have much reading time, I end up with my best ideas. New ideas, ideas on how to fix old manuscripts, ideas on ways to cut in more polished ones…IDEAS! Hooray and yay and happy dancing for ideas.
The notebook by my bed has been recently used in the middle of the night, without a light (also with a pen that ran out of ink, apparently). The notes feature on my phone, my voice recorder, and also napkins and receipts in my purse have been handy. And I have had some computer writing time. Just not as much as I want.
Three weeks ago, I told my critique group, some family members, and a number of other people that I was taking the summer off from writing. And when I made that claim, I meant it. I needed a break. My brain was stressed. Fried, even. So I gave myself permission to stop (temporarily).
And I did stop. For like, four days. And then the floodgates opened. And now that I’ve scheduled myself almost no writing time, I really wish I had some.
The moral of the story? The next time you’re tempted to temporarily quit, do it. Sometimes all it takes is to relieve a little bit of pressure before the brilliance returns full force. And let me just tell you now—that brilliance is as bright as the summer sun.
*sings praises to the elements* Hallelujah!
Gotta go. I have manuscripts to work on.
Friday, July 15, 2011
No Two Friends Alike
I’ve been thinking this week about friendship and all its different forms.
I used to think all our friends fall into different categories and sub categories, kind of like books and genres. We might have best friends with whom we share everything, who we don’t always spend a lot of time with (but sometimes do), but who we know we can always count on unconditionally.
Then we might have close friends, who are just a little different than best friends in that they know a lot about us and we know a lot about them, and we probably spend a lot of time together (or at least talking or emailing, or whatever) but with whom we also have boundaries.
Then there are regular friends we like to see, love to spend time with and visit, but who don’t really know us like our close or best friends do. And vice versa.
Below that, we have acquaintances, who we know, who we enjoy seeing and talking to and getting to know better, but who aren’t the first people we think of when someone mentions the word friend.
Theoretically, that list sounds like a good way to classify the non-family people in our lives. Then logically, we have all kinds of sub groups, and sometimes it takes some work to figure out who belongs where in the file-folders of your heart.
Except I’ve recently discovered one problem to this way of thinking. People don’t always fit in file folders. We are emotional, and illogical, and commonsensical—but not. We are dreamers, and thinkers, and feelers whose moods and situations and family and jobs all affect who we are and why we love them or why they love you.
There is no safe way to categorize a friendship. So the best thing you can do is to stop trying and just let the people in your life be who they are and love them while you can. And if the day comes when you’re not as close as you once were, feel lucky that you had as much time as you did and be grateful to them for that time. Or maybe you’re closer than before. In that case, feel lucky for that.
Some friendships are worth fighting to keep, and sometimes we’re better off letting go and moving on. It’s all about what’s most healthy for both people involved. Just as love is a gift, so is friendship. And everyone appreciates it differently.
And people, I’m so grateful for all my amazing friends—no matter what category in which they fit. Or not.
I used to think all our friends fall into different categories and sub categories, kind of like books and genres. We might have best friends with whom we share everything, who we don’t always spend a lot of time with (but sometimes do), but who we know we can always count on unconditionally.
Then we might have close friends, who are just a little different than best friends in that they know a lot about us and we know a lot about them, and we probably spend a lot of time together (or at least talking or emailing, or whatever) but with whom we also have boundaries.
Then there are regular friends we like to see, love to spend time with and visit, but who don’t really know us like our close or best friends do. And vice versa.
Below that, we have acquaintances, who we know, who we enjoy seeing and talking to and getting to know better, but who aren’t the first people we think of when someone mentions the word friend.
Theoretically, that list sounds like a good way to classify the non-family people in our lives. Then logically, we have all kinds of sub groups, and sometimes it takes some work to figure out who belongs where in the file-folders of your heart.
Except I’ve recently discovered one problem to this way of thinking. People don’t always fit in file folders. We are emotional, and illogical, and commonsensical—but not. We are dreamers, and thinkers, and feelers whose moods and situations and family and jobs all affect who we are and why we love them or why they love you.
There is no safe way to categorize a friendship. So the best thing you can do is to stop trying and just let the people in your life be who they are and love them while you can. And if the day comes when you’re not as close as you once were, feel lucky that you had as much time as you did and be grateful to them for that time. Or maybe you’re closer than before. In that case, feel lucky for that.
Some friendships are worth fighting to keep, and sometimes we’re better off letting go and moving on. It’s all about what’s most healthy for both people involved. Just as love is a gift, so is friendship. And everyone appreciates it differently.
And people, I’m so grateful for all my amazing friends—no matter what category in which they fit. Or not.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Helping Hands
**I interrupt this post for a late contest winner announcement:
I am a bad blogger. I totally forgot to post a winner for Monday's cheesy contest. There were a few people whose guesses I'm counting as close enough. They all guessed a conference, and I got registration for World CON in Reno. (*grins) So I entered the guessers into the random generator (to be fair) and it pulled up RivRe. Congratulations! I'll be emailing you for mailing info soon.
You may now return to your scheduled Wednesday blog.**
My dear blog readers. With my birthday, other summer activities, and the addition of two extra posts this week, I think I’m kind of blogged out. Out of subjects. Out of thoughts. Out of time. All that stuff.
So today’s post is me taking a break from thinking too hard. But I will leave you with the following little bits of inspiration.
Stay tuned Friday for a post about friendship.
I am a bad blogger. I totally forgot to post a winner for Monday's cheesy contest. There were a few people whose guesses I'm counting as close enough. They all guessed a conference, and I got registration for World CON in Reno. (*grins) So I entered the guessers into the random generator (to be fair) and it pulled up RivRe. Congratulations! I'll be emailing you for mailing info soon.
You may now return to your scheduled Wednesday blog.**
My dear blog readers. With my birthday, other summer activities, and the addition of two extra posts this week, I think I’m kind of blogged out. Out of subjects. Out of thoughts. Out of time. All that stuff.
So today’s post is me taking a break from thinking too hard. But I will leave you with the following little bits of inspiration.
Stay tuned Friday for a post about friendship.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Deathly Hallows Scavenger Hunt--ANOTHER contest!
Okay my friends, here we go again.
If you missed this post about the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, part 2 party going on, you should hurry and go read it. We are giving all kinds of stuff away this week. Be sure to check out the Inksplasher blog to have lots more CRAZY AWESOME opportunities to play games and win.
Today, I’m giving away this:
Because, well, there are about a zillion things you can buy with it—including Harry Potter music, movies, audio books, and more.
The contest is like a scavenger hunt, but don’t worry. You will find one of several possible answers right here on the blog.
DO NOT put your answer in the comment thread. In order to win a prize, you must email your answer to kbrowning59 [at] gmail [d0t]com. But do leave a comment, as that's one of the requirements.
In the last installation of HP, Harry, Ron, and Hermione do a lot of traveling, and live in many different places. I have also traveled around a lot in my life. Name one of the many states in which I have lived.
1) Become a follower of Random-ish, and b) leave a comment on one of my posts, then c) head over to the Inksplasher blog and leave a comment telling her you've been here. (If you're already a follower, then just say so in your comment.)
TO ENTER: E-mail the answer to Part 1. Please include your name and mailing address. Leave the comments on both blogs for Part 2 to be entered to win.
DEADLINE: Midnight, July 15th, 2011.
OPEN TO U.S. ENTRIES ONLY.
All correct answers will be entered to win the prize. Winner will be chosen using www.random.com and announced Saturday, July 16th.
Correct answers will also be entered to win the Grand Prize, to be awarded Saturday, July 16th. (Grand Prize open to U.S. entries only. Sorry.)
REMEMBER, EMAIL your answer. DO NOT PUT IT IN THE COMMENTS. Thank you, and good luck!
If you missed this post about the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, part 2 party going on, you should hurry and go read it. We are giving all kinds of stuff away this week. Be sure to check out the Inksplasher blog to have lots more CRAZY AWESOME opportunities to play games and win.
Today, I’m giving away this:
Because, well, there are about a zillion things you can buy with it—including Harry Potter music, movies, audio books, and more.
The contest is like a scavenger hunt, but don’t worry. You will find one of several possible answers right here on the blog.
DO NOT put your answer in the comment thread. In order to win a prize, you must email your answer to kbrowning59 [at] gmail [d0t]com. But do leave a comment, as that's one of the requirements.
QUESTION—Part 1:
In the last installation of HP, Harry, Ron, and Hermione do a lot of traveling, and live in many different places. I have also traveled around a lot in my life. Name one of the many states in which I have lived.
(Hint: Click the 'about me' tab to find the answers.)
QUESTION—Part 2:
1) Become a follower of Random-ish, and b) leave a comment on one of my posts, then c) head over to the Inksplasher blog and leave a comment telling her you've been here. (If you're already a follower, then just say so in your comment.)
TO ENTER: E-mail the answer to Part 1. Please include your name and mailing address. Leave the comments on both blogs for Part 2 to be entered to win.
DEADLINE: Midnight, July 15th, 2011.
OPEN TO U.S. ENTRIES ONLY.
All correct answers will be entered to win the prize. Winner will be chosen using www.random.com and announced Saturday, July 16th.
Correct answers will also be entered to win the Grand Prize, to be awarded Saturday, July 16th. (Grand Prize open to U.S. entries only. Sorry.)
REMEMBER, EMAIL your answer. DO NOT PUT IT IN THE COMMENTS. Thank you, and good luck!
Monday, July 11, 2011
One Day Special: Win the Coolest Prize Ever
Well. Clearly, this is a week for contests. Because while tomorrow I will be jumping into this Deathly Hallows, Part 2 celebration, today I am having a one-day only hurry and throw me an answer giveaway.
Because Saturday was my birthday, and I feel like giving away fun stuff to my friends. Also, I don’t have a clue what to blog about right now, because my brain is still full of cheese and chocolate fondue from The Melting Pot. So why not just give stuff to people, right?
Tomorrow’s contest will be easy, so because of that, I think today’s will have to be harder. BUT it will be worth it. Because the winner will come away with a handful of very fun prizes.
Check these out!
Okay, what you're looking at is probably the most random collection of prizes I've ever given away. But they all have a story. Well, all except that giant Tootsie Roll paper clip. I probably just bought it because it was cool. So, the dolphin bookmark (plush, by the way) came from Sea World, the wooden surfboard bookmark came from Hawaii, and the sombrero-guy pen came from San Antonio. At some point (as you can see) I used to buy this stuff every time I went somewhere. But then I never gave them away until now. So. Also, to sweeten the deal, I'm going to throw in a bag of these.
You know you’re dying to win this prize!! (Because who wouldn't want a bunch of useless, but silly stuff like this?)
So here is the question with a little lead up info: Two Julys ago, for my birthday my husband got me the most fabulous pink netbook (which I still use for hours EVERY DAY). Last year, he got me a Kindle (which I also use quite a lot). What could he have given me this year that could compete with those two gifts and make me squeal with delight? (Freebee: It’s NOT an iPad. Hint: it will be good for my career as a writer, and will make me most happy around mid-August.)
Just throw your answers into a comment and tomorrow, I’ll tell you who (if anyone) wins!
*dances around in excitement*
Because Saturday was my birthday, and I feel like giving away fun stuff to my friends. Also, I don’t have a clue what to blog about right now, because my brain is still full of cheese and chocolate fondue from The Melting Pot. So why not just give stuff to people, right?
Tomorrow’s contest will be easy, so because of that, I think today’s will have to be harder. BUT it will be worth it. Because the winner will come away with a handful of very fun prizes.
Check these out!
You know you’re dying to win this prize!! (Because who wouldn't want a bunch of useless, but silly stuff like this?)
So here is the question with a little lead up info: Two Julys ago, for my birthday my husband got me the most fabulous pink netbook (which I still use for hours EVERY DAY). Last year, he got me a Kindle (which I also use quite a lot). What could he have given me this year that could compete with those two gifts and make me squeal with delight? (Freebee: It’s NOT an iPad. Hint: it will be good for my career as a writer, and will make me most happy around mid-August.)
Just throw your answers into a comment and tomorrow, I’ll tell you who (if anyone) wins!
*dances around in excitement*
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Totally Awesome Harry Potter Blog Party and Contests.
Guess what? You’re invited to play! I'm a sponsor, so you’ll want to be sure to come visit my blog on TUESDAY—which is another day I don’t usually post. (Clearly, I’m feeling rebellious this week!) I will be giving away another $10 iTunes giftcard so the winner can purchase Harry Potter media (music, MP4 movies, audio books, etc).
Here are the basic deets:
Our party starts on Monday, July 11th and goes through Friday, July 15th.
Here are some basic instructions. At the very end, I'll tell you how you can get started earning entries for prizes today!
How do you participate?
• Visit Inksplasher every day of the party and play our Party Games!
• There will be multiple posts and ways to enter to win each day, with specific instructions, deadlines, and actions posted—so read each post carefully.
• Most posts/entries will require you to email your name AND COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS to kbrowning59 [at] gmail [d0t]com .
• Don’t worry, all personal info will magically disappear at the end of the contest. You won’t be added to any spam lists. Promise.
• All winners will be chosen using www.random.org and announced on the Inksplasher blog.
• Every daily entry also gives you a chance at the Grand Prize.
Party Games:
Harry’s Hunt for the Horcrux:
Since Harry and the gang will be searching for horcruxes and following clues, we’ll be doing the same, with an online scavenger hunt. Each day we’ll feature a sponsor and a question. Visit the sponsor’s blog or website, follow the clues to find the answer to their question, comply with any additional instructions, then e-mail the answer to the question to me. Each entry in this contest will enter you to win the sponsor’s prize AND the Grand Prize.
Hermione’s Hogwarts Trivia Test:
Always the source of trivial facts and information, Hermione will be matching wits with us. She’ll post a new Hogwarts trivia question each day. Your entry in this contest will enter you to win a Harry Potter Trivia Bingo Game* AND the Grand Prize.
Fred & George’s Magical Mix-Ups:
When you mix magic and teenagers, your bound to get some hilarious results. Each day there will be a wacky adventure (see our Chasing Twilight party), with it’s own set of rules specific to that post. Each entry in this contest will enter you to win a Harry Potter Bingo Game* (this is a visual bingo game, not the trivia bingo) AND the Grand Prize.
We have two Party Games that are on-going and you can start NOW!
The Daily Prophet Party Game:
Simply do something to help spread the word about Inksplasher’s Totally Awesome Harry Potter Blog Party. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS.
Ron’s Read-a-Thon:
Read the Harry Potter books or watch the previous movies. This contest is retroactive to January 1st, 20011. CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS.
See you soon!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Live to Recognize Yourself
Recently, I had an opportunity to visit with an out-of-town relative I haven’t seen in several years. Because of some medical issues, this relative’s appearance has changed considerably since I saw her last, and as a result, she has hidden herself from the world, refusing to even visit the family members who love her regardless of outward appearances.
When I asked her why she’d chosen this path, she explained, “No one recognizes me.”
To which I replied, “I did.”
And I had. The minute she opened the door (I kind of had to push my way in) I recognized her as the cousin I’ve loved my whole life. (Yes, my whole life—she’s older than me by a month.) And those feelings hadn’t changed, even though we both had.
Everyone changes. The whole world changes. Just look at global warming and earthquakes and volcanoes, and climate shifts, and floods. Look at how environments, and people, and economy, and style, and everything and everyone on the planet changes. IT HAPPENS! Nothing ever stays the same as it was yesterday.
But love is everlasting. So I couldn’t understand why my beautiful, vibrant cousin had chosen to put her life on hold to hide from the rest of the world.
It made me wonder. Think. Ponder. When something bad happens to us, do we roll over and die? Do we give up and stop living? Or do we adjust, pick ourselves up and live?
I think the answer should be simple. Not easy, necessarily, but simple. And also complex. We live for ourselves. First, and always ourselves. Then for those we love. And absolutely last—always—for those strangers who might see and not recognize us.
Who are you living for?
When I asked her why she’d chosen this path, she explained, “No one recognizes me.”
To which I replied, “I did.”
And I had. The minute she opened the door (I kind of had to push my way in) I recognized her as the cousin I’ve loved my whole life. (Yes, my whole life—she’s older than me by a month.) And those feelings hadn’t changed, even though we both had.
Everyone changes. The whole world changes. Just look at global warming and earthquakes and volcanoes, and climate shifts, and floods. Look at how environments, and people, and economy, and style, and everything and everyone on the planet changes. IT HAPPENS! Nothing ever stays the same as it was yesterday.
But love is everlasting. So I couldn’t understand why my beautiful, vibrant cousin had chosen to put her life on hold to hide from the rest of the world.
It made me wonder. Think. Ponder. When something bad happens to us, do we roll over and die? Do we give up and stop living? Or do we adjust, pick ourselves up and live?
I think the answer should be simple. Not easy, necessarily, but simple. And also complex. We live for ourselves. First, and always ourselves. Then for those we love. And absolutely last—always—for those strangers who might see and not recognize us.
Who are you living for?
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Rachel Morgan Tagged Me!
It’s been a long time since someone tagged me, but last week, Rachel Morgan did just that. And since it’s my birthday this week, I figured there’s no better time for a fun party game. So I hope you’ll forgive me for indulging myself.
1. Do you think you’re hot?
Of course. Someone should call 911, because I’m on fire, peeps, FIRE! (Okay, seriously, it’s like 95 degrees outside, it’s Independence Day week, so there are fireworks happening all over the place, and since it’s summer, we’re firing up the grill for some serious BBQ. How much hotter does it get?)
2. Upload a picture or wallpaper you are using at the moment.
Hawaii, January 2010 (This was the view from our hotel Lanai/balcony.)
Washington DC in December 2010, and yes, that is my family all bundled up in all those layers of clothes.
3. When was the last time you ate chicken?
Last Friday night at a Chinese restaurant. It was mixed with zucchini, broccoli, and mushrooms, topping a bed of fresh noodles, and topped with spicy brown sauce. Delish! (And actually, mine had shrimp, but my husband’s had chicken, so I stole a piece of the chicken off his plate. It counts, right?)
4. The song (s) you listened to lately.
Oh man, what a question. You all know how much I love music, right? But, considering Independence Day celebrations, I have listened to The Star Spangled Banner a few times, Garth Brooks’s We Shall Be Free, and Toby Keith’s Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue.
But aside from the patriotic songs I’ve had in my head (and also because I posted one on Monday) this is my new current favorite.
Linkin Park, Iridescent
5. What were you thinking while doing this?
Black Forest juicy oozers are quite delicious, and make very tasty blog-writing treats. I should stock up. Also I should get some Dr. Pepper to keep in the fridge in my garage.
6. Do you have nicknames? What are they?
Nicki, Nick, Mom, babe, and Fab #3 (but only people who know what that means get to use it!)
7. Tag 8 blogger friends
Okay, I’m going to pick some people I’ve never tagged before, or whose blogs I have recently started to follow. (No offense to my regular, long-time friends—you can be tagged too if you want!)
Jemi Frasier
Donna K. Weaver
Heather Cashman
Matthew MacNish
Michelle Davidson Argyle
Jeff King
Christine Fonseca
Theresa Milstein
Can't wait to see your answers!
1. Do you think you’re hot?
Of course. Someone should call 911, because I’m on fire, peeps, FIRE! (Okay, seriously, it’s like 95 degrees outside, it’s Independence Day week, so there are fireworks happening all over the place, and since it’s summer, we’re firing up the grill for some serious BBQ. How much hotter does it get?)
2. Upload a picture or wallpaper you are using at the moment.
Hawaii, January 2010 (This was the view from our hotel Lanai/balcony.)
3. When was the last time you ate chicken?
Last Friday night at a Chinese restaurant. It was mixed with zucchini, broccoli, and mushrooms, topping a bed of fresh noodles, and topped with spicy brown sauce. Delish! (And actually, mine had shrimp, but my husband’s had chicken, so I stole a piece of the chicken off his plate. It counts, right?)
4. The song (s) you listened to lately.
Oh man, what a question. You all know how much I love music, right? But, considering Independence Day celebrations, I have listened to The Star Spangled Banner a few times, Garth Brooks’s We Shall Be Free, and Toby Keith’s Courtesy of the Red, White, and Blue.
But aside from the patriotic songs I’ve had in my head (and also because I posted one on Monday) this is my new current favorite.
Linkin Park, Iridescent
5. What were you thinking while doing this?
Black Forest juicy oozers are quite delicious, and make very tasty blog-writing treats. I should stock up. Also I should get some Dr. Pepper to keep in the fridge in my garage.
6. Do you have nicknames? What are they?
Nicki, Nick, Mom, babe, and Fab #3 (but only people who know what that means get to use it!)
7. Tag 8 blogger friends
Okay, I’m going to pick some people I’ve never tagged before, or whose blogs I have recently started to follow. (No offense to my regular, long-time friends—you can be tagged too if you want!)
Jemi Frasier
Donna K. Weaver
Heather Cashman
Matthew MacNish
Michelle Davidson Argyle
Jeff King
Christine Fonseca
Theresa Milstein
Can't wait to see your answers!
Monday, July 4, 2011
Bravery, Freedom, and the Human Spirit
Happy Independence Day, all!
I'm so proud to be an American. But no matter where you're from, or where you live, or what you do for a living, I think this video applies to us all.
I'm so proud to be an American. But no matter where you're from, or where you live, or what you do for a living, I think this video applies to us all.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Special Post: Interview with author Heather Justesen
Hi all! I don't usually post on Saturdays, but I'm so excited I had to share. This week friend and author Heather Justesen is kicking off her newest release, Blank Slate. Because she's awesome, she agreed to do a short interview about her journey in creating this particular book so I can share her story with you.
You can read more about what I thought of Blank Slate here.
NG: From what I understand, the premise for Blank Slate stemmed from a real-life T.V. news story. Can you elaborate a little about how this evolved?
HJ: Hmm, if I get too detailed it’ll give away my best twist, but suffice it to say that it came from a highly publicized news story—something that seemed like it was such a long shot it could never happen again. And then I did research and found out that the phenomenon has happened numerous other times across the country in the past decade. I started spinning scenarios and when I found a twist that made it different from the usual amnesia story and made me excited to start writing, I sat down and started typing.
NG: You have a gift for writing strong female characters who are not only talented, but who use their talents daily. Adrianna’s talent didn’t work out the way other character abilities have in your past books. Did this make writing her story more or less difficult? And why?
HJ: Adrianna’s loss of ability to play the piano after her accident really throws her for a loop. She had to reinvent herself and find a different path and there’s more than a little stumbling before she figures out what she’s good at—and what she’s really not good at. I’d say her change in talents did actually make it less difficult for me, if only because the job she ended up with was similar to my own work history.
NG: If you were allowed to spend a day with just one of your fictional characters (in any of your books) which one would you choose and why?
HJ: Okay, that’s seriously difficult to decide because I like them all! I always seem to like the characters I’m spending the most time with the best. As I’ve got three different critique groups working on three different books and a fourth I’m trying to get ready for submission, (Not to mention my three published books) I have a plethora of characters to choose from.
At the moment I’m going to have to claim a woman named Rosemary as my favorite. She’s bright and fun, a bit mouthy, a fabulous chef, and doesn’t put up with anyone’s guff, but on the inside she’s full of the same insecurities and worries that plague all of us and a pain she does a great job of hiding. She’s not even the main character in the book I’ve been working on, but she’s larger than life and I can’t wait to get around to telling her story. She’d be a blast to go hang out with because she’d push me outside my comfort zone without doing anything truly wild (like skydiving or base jumping). Oh, and she has terrific taste in shoes.
NG: I understand you already have ANOTHER book being released soon. Tell us about it!
HJ: Yes, my fourth book is slated for release in January with Cedar Fort. This is one of my favorite stories!
NG: Mine too. (Yes, I'm the lucky one who has read it already.*sticks out tongue*)
HJ: It’s about Rena, who is thirty-two, single, and wishing for a family of her own. When her best friend for nearly a decade, Tucker—who is a gorgeous Marine reservist—loses his brother and sister-in-law in a car accident, he wants to raise his niece and nephew. Alas, as a soldier—and one with basically no living family members left—the state is leery of giving him custody of the kids. What if he gets called up, who’s going to care for the children? He decides the way to solve his problem is to marry—so he turns to Rena. The struggle to juggle two successful careers, two children under the age of seven, and find love along the way makes for a fun read with great characters. My publisher is discussing new titles for the book, so I’m not sure what it’ll be called, but the current title is Family By Design.
NG: Excellent. I'm way excited for that one as well. Sounds like you have great things in the work, Heather. Congratulations and good luck!
Don't forget to head over to Heather's website and read a few sample chapters of Blank Slate. You have nothing to lose but a chance to read a great story. And once you're good and hooked, you can get your paperback copy at Amazon, or your ebook copy at Smashwords (on sale through the month of July for $1.49 with the magic blog-reader code: WV49Z )
NG: From what I understand, the premise for Blank Slate stemmed from a real-life T.V. news story. Can you elaborate a little about how this evolved?
HJ: Hmm, if I get too detailed it’ll give away my best twist, but suffice it to say that it came from a highly publicized news story—something that seemed like it was such a long shot it could never happen again. And then I did research and found out that the phenomenon has happened numerous other times across the country in the past decade. I started spinning scenarios and when I found a twist that made it different from the usual amnesia story and made me excited to start writing, I sat down and started typing.
NG: You have a gift for writing strong female characters who are not only talented, but who use their talents daily. Adrianna’s talent didn’t work out the way other character abilities have in your past books. Did this make writing her story more or less difficult? And why?
HJ: Adrianna’s loss of ability to play the piano after her accident really throws her for a loop. She had to reinvent herself and find a different path and there’s more than a little stumbling before she figures out what she’s good at—and what she’s really not good at. I’d say her change in talents did actually make it less difficult for me, if only because the job she ended up with was similar to my own work history.
NG: If you were allowed to spend a day with just one of your fictional characters (in any of your books) which one would you choose and why?
HJ: Okay, that’s seriously difficult to decide because I like them all! I always seem to like the characters I’m spending the most time with the best. As I’ve got three different critique groups working on three different books and a fourth I’m trying to get ready for submission, (Not to mention my three published books) I have a plethora of characters to choose from.
At the moment I’m going to have to claim a woman named Rosemary as my favorite. She’s bright and fun, a bit mouthy, a fabulous chef, and doesn’t put up with anyone’s guff, but on the inside she’s full of the same insecurities and worries that plague all of us and a pain she does a great job of hiding. She’s not even the main character in the book I’ve been working on, but she’s larger than life and I can’t wait to get around to telling her story. She’d be a blast to go hang out with because she’d push me outside my comfort zone without doing anything truly wild (like skydiving or base jumping). Oh, and she has terrific taste in shoes.
NG: I understand you already have ANOTHER book being released soon. Tell us about it!
HJ: Yes, my fourth book is slated for release in January with Cedar Fort. This is one of my favorite stories!
NG: Mine too. (Yes, I'm the lucky one who has read it already.*sticks out tongue*)
HJ: It’s about Rena, who is thirty-two, single, and wishing for a family of her own. When her best friend for nearly a decade, Tucker—who is a gorgeous Marine reservist—loses his brother and sister-in-law in a car accident, he wants to raise his niece and nephew. Alas, as a soldier—and one with basically no living family members left—the state is leery of giving him custody of the kids. What if he gets called up, who’s going to care for the children? He decides the way to solve his problem is to marry—so he turns to Rena. The struggle to juggle two successful careers, two children under the age of seven, and find love along the way makes for a fun read with great characters. My publisher is discussing new titles for the book, so I’m not sure what it’ll be called, but the current title is Family By Design.
NG: Excellent. I'm way excited for that one as well. Sounds like you have great things in the work, Heather. Congratulations and good luck!
Don't forget to head over to Heather's website and read a few sample chapters of Blank Slate. You have nothing to lose but a chance to read a great story. And once you're good and hooked, you can get your paperback copy at Amazon, or your ebook copy at Smashwords (on sale through the month of July for $1.49 with the magic blog-reader code: WV49Z )
Friday, July 1, 2011
Out There With the Brave
At a recent restaurant in which a large number of authors had gathered, Jamie Harrington made a comment that got me thinking. She said, “I love how we’re all just so out-there.” And by we, she meant authors and other artistic-types.
She was sort-of referring to the rainbow of color represented in our many eclectic hairstyles, but also our styles of dress, our conversational topics, our ability to make friends with strangers who live far away. But mostly, I think her comment came down to her loving our bravery.
Later, at a book launch, author Don Carey asked some of us about our chosen styles and hair colors. He wasn’t asking because he believed there was some kind of rebellion behind it, but as research for his work in progress. Because of the nature of his question, I think he got better answers than most of us would otherwise have given.
I told him that for me, it comes to bravery. I AM brave enough to write a book. I AM brave enough to submit and be rejected over and over and over again. I AM brave enough to repeat this vicious cycle continuously until I find success. (Though, I really wish someone would PLEASE help end the insanity soon!)
And if I am brave enough to do all that, well. It isn’t such a stretch to realize that my style choices are a physical manifestation of the bravery I’m clinging to with everything I have. It never hurts to have a daily reminder that YES, I can do these hard things. YES, I can be brave. YES, I can take hard rejections. And also, NO, I won’t quit, however tempted I may be.
Crazy sounding? Yeah, I know. But that’s me.
What do you do to remind yourself to be brave?
She was sort-of referring to the rainbow of color represented in our many eclectic hairstyles, but also our styles of dress, our conversational topics, our ability to make friends with strangers who live far away. But mostly, I think her comment came down to her loving our bravery.
Later, at a book launch, author Don Carey asked some of us about our chosen styles and hair colors. He wasn’t asking because he believed there was some kind of rebellion behind it, but as research for his work in progress. Because of the nature of his question, I think he got better answers than most of us would otherwise have given.
I told him that for me, it comes to bravery. I AM brave enough to write a book. I AM brave enough to submit and be rejected over and over and over again. I AM brave enough to repeat this vicious cycle continuously until I find success. (Though, I really wish someone would PLEASE help end the insanity soon!)
And if I am brave enough to do all that, well. It isn’t such a stretch to realize that my style choices are a physical manifestation of the bravery I’m clinging to with everything I have. It never hurts to have a daily reminder that YES, I can do these hard things. YES, I can be brave. YES, I can take hard rejections. And also, NO, I won’t quit, however tempted I may be.
Crazy sounding? Yeah, I know. But that’s me.
What do you do to remind yourself to be brave?
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