The blog will be quiet for the next two weeks. I plan to return to it January 5th. During this time I will spend time with my family.
Yeah!
cmr
Monday, December 22, 2008
Friday, December 19, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday, -Santa
HO Ho HO.
In a mall in Beverly Hills California, this is the mall Santa. On weekends he listens to what good girls and boys want for Christmas.
ahem. Well women certainly.
He can come trim my tree.
Anyway Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, Happy Hannukah, Merry Kwanzaa to all my readers.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
I've been tagged Twice
Ginger Simpson tagged me on Tuesday.
I'm supposed to reveal ten truths about myself and then tag 7 other to do the same.
(The second tag is for a short Christmas story, but that will have to wait.)
Here goes:
1. When looking at colleges I only applied to two: Northerna Arizona University and Penn State. I got into both, but picked Penn State.
2. I delivered pizza for Domino's in college.
3. I once interviewed to drive the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile, but didn't get the job.
4. I'm not a huge fan of chocolate and I don't like shopping.
5. I wrote my first book in junior high.
6. I was an oops. My parents were using the rhythm method and they lost the beat.
7. I've lived in England. My husband and I lived there for a year for his job.
8. I was ambivalent about having kids. I wasn't one of those people who dreamed about getting married and having kids. I love my kids to death now that I have them.
9. If something bothers me I'll tell you. If something really bothers me, you won't ever know.
10. I can't knit. I've tried numerous times over the years, but I just can't seem to get the stitches to look right.
I don't have seven people to tag. Most of the people I know don't blog. Sorry. But check out the pic on this blog. http://caridad.com/blog/
I'm supposed to reveal ten truths about myself and then tag 7 other to do the same.
(The second tag is for a short Christmas story, but that will have to wait.)
Here goes:
1. When looking at colleges I only applied to two: Northerna Arizona University and Penn State. I got into both, but picked Penn State.
2. I delivered pizza for Domino's in college.
3. I once interviewed to drive the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile, but didn't get the job.
4. I'm not a huge fan of chocolate and I don't like shopping.
5. I wrote my first book in junior high.
6. I was an oops. My parents were using the rhythm method and they lost the beat.
7. I've lived in England. My husband and I lived there for a year for his job.
8. I was ambivalent about having kids. I wasn't one of those people who dreamed about getting married and having kids. I love my kids to death now that I have them.
9. If something bothers me I'll tell you. If something really bothers me, you won't ever know.
10. I can't knit. I've tried numerous times over the years, but I just can't seem to get the stitches to look right.
I don't have seven people to tag. Most of the people I know don't blog. Sorry. But check out the pic on this blog. http://caridad.com/blog/
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Word Wednesday - Birthday
Birthday. Not a hard word. Well if you have a lot of them behind you it might be.
But it isn't my birthday. It's Joe Paterno's birthday. Someone is throwing hima virtual surprise party. You can make a comment about some experience you had with Joe Pa
I did. I passed him on the street once and he said, "Hello."
If you don't know, he's a legend. A really big man on campus.
Regular readers of this blog, know I went to Penn State. I meet someone everywhere I go that has gone to PSU.
Yeah!
So Happy Birthday Joe Pa!
We are . . . . .Penn State.
But it isn't my birthday. It's Joe Paterno's birthday. Someone is throwing hima virtual surprise party. You can make a comment about some experience you had with Joe Pa
I did. I passed him on the street once and he said, "Hello."
If you don't know, he's a legend. A really big man on campus.
Regular readers of this blog, know I went to Penn State. I meet someone everywhere I go that has gone to PSU.
Yeah!
So Happy Birthday Joe Pa!
We are . . . . .Penn State.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Happy New Monday - Happiness is contagious
Happiness is contagious.
I truly believe this. I can be a grouchy and you encounter someone who is in a great mood and you end up in a great mood, too. I love when this happens.
I think I've done the same for other people, too. I'm a glass half full kind of person. At the very least it is half full. I'm not perky, per say, but I'm pretty upbeat.
So smile at someone it may make their day.
I truly believe this. I can be a grouchy and you encounter someone who is in a great mood and you end up in a great mood, too. I love when this happens.
I think I've done the same for other people, too. I'm a glass half full kind of person. At the very least it is half full. I'm not perky, per say, but I'm pretty upbeat.
So smile at someone it may make their day.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Word Wednesday - Intimation
intimation \in-tuh-MAY-shuhn\, noun:
an indirect or slight suggestion; hint
I often use this word. It’s one that when I do use it around non-writers they ask me what it means.
Some words people can figure out in context. I guess this isn’t one of them. I’m also asked to spell it by some wiseacres. I can. I can spell lots of words.
I’ve found in dealing with men, you don’t intimate. You tell them directly. Other women will pick up hints. Men will not. After I’ve been with women for a few hours, I go home and talk that way to the men in my house. Often my husband will just ask me what I want him to do.
It’s a good strategy on his part. I then get back to manspeak and we all can understand each other.
This is one of those words that sound dirty, but isn’t. Though an intimation can be for something dirty.
What was the last thing you intimated?
an indirect or slight suggestion; hint
I often use this word. It’s one that when I do use it around non-writers they ask me what it means.
Some words people can figure out in context. I guess this isn’t one of them. I’m also asked to spell it by some wiseacres. I can. I can spell lots of words.
I’ve found in dealing with men, you don’t intimate. You tell them directly. Other women will pick up hints. Men will not. After I’ve been with women for a few hours, I go home and talk that way to the men in my house. Often my husband will just ask me what I want him to do.
It’s a good strategy on his part. I then get back to manspeak and we all can understand each other.
This is one of those words that sound dirty, but isn’t. Though an intimation can be for something dirty.
What was the last thing you intimated?
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Book Review Tuesday - House of Dark Shadows
House of Dark Shadows
Robert Liparulo
I’m not one to read YA. If I do, it would be romance.
But I like horror and House of Dark Shadows by Robert Liparulo seemed pretty close to horror.
I haven’t been scared reading a book since I read It by Stephen King. I was truly scared reading the book.
The King family moves from Los Angeles to a small town. Xander, 15, does not want to move. He has a girlfriend and friends who he makes movies with. He likes his life in LA.
But move they do and the Kings find this odd house. Xander doesn’t like it from the beginning. He hears strange noises and sound travels in odd directions. When he confronts his father, the man agrees there is something about the house, but at first isn’t willing to consider moving.
Xander’s mother finds a set of large footprints in the house. Then Xander and his younger brother, David, see a strange figure on the second floor and decide to follow it. They find odd rooms in the attic. Each one has a different theme and an outside door. In order to go through the door the person must be wearing some of the items in the room.
After Xander is almost killed in a gladiator fight, their father makes David and Xander agree not to enter the rooms and not to tell their mother.
But David can’t resist.
This sets off a series of events which lead quickly to the end of the book.
House of Dark Shadows is the first in a series.
I could not put the book down. When I did finish it, I couldn’t sleep because my heart was pounding. Part of why it was scary to me is that I so identified with Xander and David. Having two boys myself, I found the relationship between them realistic. David especially had the push and pull that a 12 year old faces between being a child and being a teenager.
If you like horror then I highly recommend House of Dark Shadows.
Robert Liparulo
I’m not one to read YA. If I do, it would be romance.
But I like horror and House of Dark Shadows by Robert Liparulo seemed pretty close to horror.
I haven’t been scared reading a book since I read It by Stephen King. I was truly scared reading the book.
The King family moves from Los Angeles to a small town. Xander, 15, does not want to move. He has a girlfriend and friends who he makes movies with. He likes his life in LA.
But move they do and the Kings find this odd house. Xander doesn’t like it from the beginning. He hears strange noises and sound travels in odd directions. When he confronts his father, the man agrees there is something about the house, but at first isn’t willing to consider moving.
Xander’s mother finds a set of large footprints in the house. Then Xander and his younger brother, David, see a strange figure on the second floor and decide to follow it. They find odd rooms in the attic. Each one has a different theme and an outside door. In order to go through the door the person must be wearing some of the items in the room.
After Xander is almost killed in a gladiator fight, their father makes David and Xander agree not to enter the rooms and not to tell their mother.
But David can’t resist.
This sets off a series of events which lead quickly to the end of the book.
House of Dark Shadows is the first in a series.
I could not put the book down. When I did finish it, I couldn’t sleep because my heart was pounding. Part of why it was scary to me is that I so identified with Xander and David. Having two boys myself, I found the relationship between them realistic. David especially had the push and pull that a 12 year old faces between being a child and being a teenager.
If you like horror then I highly recommend House of Dark Shadows.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Happy News Monday - Animals
Animals reaching out to troubled kids.
This is a picture of my dog as a puppy. He's almost as cute as this now. He has big maple syrup eyes. I didn't really want a dog, but everyone else did. I sometimes don't like him, but I always love him. (Gee sounds like my husband.)
Anyway, when my father died last year it took a few weeks for it to really hit me. My dog knew it before I did. Normally we live a peaceful existence during the day. Once the kids go off to school, I get on the computer and he goes to sleep in my bedroom. He doesn't usually stir unless I do.
Well this day he was glued to my side. That's when it hit me. I was finally mourning. He knew it. He has this way of putting his head on your lap and looking up at you and wagging his tail. It's hard to resist, but as I'm allergic to dogs, I can't really pet him.
Studies have shown that having a pet lowers your blood pressure. Even just petting an animal can help.
And there are times when I break down and pet him and make sure I wash my hands right afterward. And I do feel better.
How can you not when there is unconditional love?
What kind of pet do you have?
Friday, December 5, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday - Noah Wyle
When I researched Noah Wyle, I realized he wasn't that much younger than me. I was sure I had at least a decade on him, but it's closer to five years.
So I don't feel so bad about him being a Hot Hunk Friday pic.
I've loved ER from the beginning, but I haven't watched it in a few years. I guess since it is the last season I should. I used to tape it and watch it during the day.
I liked Carter, the character Noah Wyle plays, even though he was pretty much a snot-nosed kid in the beginning.
I have hope for snot-nosed kids. I've known a few in my time. Being on a first aid squad that lets 16 year olds join, you see them at their snot-nosed best. On the other hand, you get to see them grow into fine young men. One recently came back from being an LA cop. He has a quiet confidence now.
Another has a full time job and loves the 8-4 hours. He even bought a house.
I guess what I like is the character arc of these kids. It's what we as writers strive for in our stories. It's nice to have examples in our everyday lives to pick from.
So who have you gotten to watch grow up and are very proud of now?
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Word Wednesday - resplendent
resplendent \rih-SPLEN-duhnt\, adjective:very bright or shining; splendid
This is one of those words that I think sounds like what it means. It’s not a word I would use in my writing, but if I were writing an historical, I would probably use it more. To me it seems like an old word.
We don’t have things that are resplendent anymore. The world makes me think of Versailles or Buckingham Palace.
You wouldn’t say a Yugo is resplendent. You wouldn’t even say a BMW is nor a Merecedes. It’s an old word for old fancy things.
Have you used it in your writing?
This is one of those words that I think sounds like what it means. It’s not a word I would use in my writing, but if I were writing an historical, I would probably use it more. To me it seems like an old word.
We don’t have things that are resplendent anymore. The world makes me think of Versailles or Buckingham Palace.
You wouldn’t say a Yugo is resplendent. You wouldn’t even say a BMW is nor a Merecedes. It’s an old word for old fancy things.
Have you used it in your writing?
Monday, December 1, 2008
Happy News Monday - Less to worry about
We all need less to worry about.
Right?
I think the reason this article struck me is that I just saw someone I know who is due this week. She was pretty calm I have to say. Which is good.
I'm a pretty calm person. I was in Emergency Medical Services for a few years and you have to be a calm person to do that.
I don't think I worried that much when I was pregnant. Okay maybe about labor, but really that isn't odd.
In fact there's a test called Alpha Fetal Protein that they do during pregnanty. If the level is too high or low it can mean spina bifida or Down's Syndrome. At that point I was aborting the fetus and I had read about so many false positives that I declined the test. Why did I need to know?
I have two strapping boys now who eat me out of house and home.
Guess there was no need to worry and this article backs me up.
What did you worry about during pregnancy?
Right?
I think the reason this article struck me is that I just saw someone I know who is due this week. She was pretty calm I have to say. Which is good.
I'm a pretty calm person. I was in Emergency Medical Services for a few years and you have to be a calm person to do that.
I don't think I worried that much when I was pregnant. Okay maybe about labor, but really that isn't odd.
In fact there's a test called Alpha Fetal Protein that they do during pregnanty. If the level is too high or low it can mean spina bifida or Down's Syndrome. At that point I was aborting the fetus and I had read about so many false positives that I declined the test. Why did I need to know?
I have two strapping boys now who eat me out of house and home.
Guess there was no need to worry and this article backs me up.
What did you worry about during pregnancy?
Friday, November 28, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Word Wednesday - genuflect
genuflect \JEN-yuh-flekt\, intransitive verb:
1. To bend the knee or touch one knee to the ground, as in worship.2. To be servilely respectful or obedient; to grovel.
This word brings me back to my Catholic School days. Genuflecting before you went into the pew.
A sign of respect and humility, I presume.
Catholic School is what made me want to be a writer. We did a lot of writing and I was noticed for my talent. Science wasn’t such a big deal. It was a “special” as they call music and art nowadays. We didn’t have science on a regular basis.
We had religion every day. We had English everyday. (Literacy as they call it now.)
But not science. Hence I messed up that part of the test when I moved to public school.
But, that was okay, because I knew in fifth grade, in the Annunciation BVM School, that I was going to be a writer.
When did you know what your calling in life was?
1. To bend the knee or touch one knee to the ground, as in worship.2. To be servilely respectful or obedient; to grovel.
This word brings me back to my Catholic School days. Genuflecting before you went into the pew.
A sign of respect and humility, I presume.
Catholic School is what made me want to be a writer. We did a lot of writing and I was noticed for my talent. Science wasn’t such a big deal. It was a “special” as they call music and art nowadays. We didn’t have science on a regular basis.
We had religion every day. We had English everyday. (Literacy as they call it now.)
But not science. Hence I messed up that part of the test when I moved to public school.
But, that was okay, because I knew in fifth grade, in the Annunciation BVM School, that I was going to be a writer.
When did you know what your calling in life was?
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Book Review Tuesday - The Truth About You
The Truth About You – Your Secret to Success by Marcus Buckingham
Marcus’ Buckingham’s latest book is a multimedia event.
The book comes with a notepad, the book itself and a video. You read the first chapter then you look at the video which is narrated by Buckingham himself. The author has been a consultant to Toyota and Coca Cola according to his biography so he probably knows all about success.
First the video. In the video we see the story of a boy named Ewan who played trumpet in the school band. No matter how much he tried to persuade his band director that he didn’t want to play trumpet the director didn’t listen. So Ewan took things into his own hands and found a replacement to play trumpet. He now plays drums. Why? Because he felt his strength was in playing the drum not the trumpet.
What Buckingham wants us to take away from this video is that your weaknesses are not necessarily what you aren’t good at. You may be very good at something, just not like doing it. It makes you weak.
Buckingham goes onto dispel some myths for example that you should work on your weaknesses. He insists you need to work on your strengths and either farm out things you are weak at, or make them a small part of your day/job.
The notepad is to figure out your strengths and weaknesses. Buckingham suggests you spend a weak jotting down what makes you strong. What gets you jazzed. That’s how you’ll know your strengths.
Buckingham also suggests that you do the same for the things that drain you of energy. These are your weaknesses.
Many people will give you advice and Buckingham warns against taking some of that advice.
All in all, I found the book to be a refreshing change to most of the books on success. The author isn’t trying to get you to change, he’s trying to get you to work with the person you already are. Though I’m not in a position to look for a new job, I already am a writer, something that gives me energy, I could see how this book would be useful to someone who was. The author isn’t asking you to adopt habits contrary to your being, but instead work on developing and growing within the framework of your strengths. I think this book would make a great gift for anyone graduating from college.
Marcus’ Buckingham’s latest book is a multimedia event.
The book comes with a notepad, the book itself and a video. You read the first chapter then you look at the video which is narrated by Buckingham himself. The author has been a consultant to Toyota and Coca Cola according to his biography so he probably knows all about success.
First the video. In the video we see the story of a boy named Ewan who played trumpet in the school band. No matter how much he tried to persuade his band director that he didn’t want to play trumpet the director didn’t listen. So Ewan took things into his own hands and found a replacement to play trumpet. He now plays drums. Why? Because he felt his strength was in playing the drum not the trumpet.
What Buckingham wants us to take away from this video is that your weaknesses are not necessarily what you aren’t good at. You may be very good at something, just not like doing it. It makes you weak.
Buckingham goes onto dispel some myths for example that you should work on your weaknesses. He insists you need to work on your strengths and either farm out things you are weak at, or make them a small part of your day/job.
The notepad is to figure out your strengths and weaknesses. Buckingham suggests you spend a weak jotting down what makes you strong. What gets you jazzed. That’s how you’ll know your strengths.
Buckingham also suggests that you do the same for the things that drain you of energy. These are your weaknesses.
Many people will give you advice and Buckingham warns against taking some of that advice.
All in all, I found the book to be a refreshing change to most of the books on success. The author isn’t trying to get you to change, he’s trying to get you to work with the person you already are. Though I’m not in a position to look for a new job, I already am a writer, something that gives me energy, I could see how this book would be useful to someone who was. The author isn’t asking you to adopt habits contrary to your being, but instead work on developing and growing within the framework of your strengths. I think this book would make a great gift for anyone graduating from college.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Happy New Monday. Rose Bowl Baby!
Penn State
Any regular readers know I went to Penn State.
Anyone who knows me for more than a day probably knows I went to Penn State.
I have Penn State sweatshirts. A Penn State scrunchy. Two Penn State blankets. And a magnet on the back of my car.
And I have Penn State things on my Christmas list.
Back in 1982 I was looking for a college. I knew that I wanted to write, but I didn't really know much beyond that. Hard to look for a specific school when you don't know that much.
But in the Fall of 81 I had watched a football game with my Dad. Penn State vs someone. Can't even remember. I just remember that there was an energy about the game.
So I applied to PSU. And got in!
I needed to be part of something bigger than myself. And I have to tell you that everywhere I go, I meet someone that has graduated from my alma mater. Even at the Grand Canyon.
So why is this Happy News?
Because Penn State is going to the Rose Bowl.
They beat Michigan State this weekend and secured their spot in Pasadena.
I get to watch one more football game of my favorite team.
Squee!
So who is your fave college team?
Any regular readers know I went to Penn State.
Anyone who knows me for more than a day probably knows I went to Penn State.
I have Penn State sweatshirts. A Penn State scrunchy. Two Penn State blankets. And a magnet on the back of my car.
And I have Penn State things on my Christmas list.
Back in 1982 I was looking for a college. I knew that I wanted to write, but I didn't really know much beyond that. Hard to look for a specific school when you don't know that much.
But in the Fall of 81 I had watched a football game with my Dad. Penn State vs someone. Can't even remember. I just remember that there was an energy about the game.
So I applied to PSU. And got in!
I needed to be part of something bigger than myself. And I have to tell you that everywhere I go, I meet someone that has graduated from my alma mater. Even at the Grand Canyon.
So why is this Happy News?
Because Penn State is going to the Rose Bowl.
They beat Michigan State this weekend and secured their spot in Pasadena.
I get to watch one more football game of my favorite team.
Squee!
So who is your fave college team?
Friday, November 21, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday - Trace Adkins
Let me start this by saying I'm not a big fan of country music. Really, I'm not. I wish I were. They have much better looking singers than rock. While rock has Tom Petty and Iggy Pop, country has the likes of Trace Adkins.Not only is he tall, which I like in a guy. He has a great voice. I've talked here before about how much I like great voices on a guy. The deeper the better and this man speaks from way deep in his chest.
So I'll ask you fans of Trace Adkins and I know at least one blog reader is.
What is you favorite Trace Adkins song?
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Word Wednesday - Quandary
quandary \KWAHN-duh-ree; -dree\, noun:
A state of difficulty, perplexity, doubt, or uncertainty.
I’m often in a quandary.
Which manuscript should I work on next? What should I get my husband for Christmas. Paper or plastic. (Oh wait I have totebags from a bajillion conferences that I can use.)
I’m a decisive person, really, I am. It’s just when the choice isn’t clear cut I find it harder. I was in a quandary for several months over quitting a job. I had another one lined up. The new one had a better boss. (Turned out to be the right decision to quit that job.)
What decisions do you make on a daily basis that put you in a quandary?
A state of difficulty, perplexity, doubt, or uncertainty.
I’m often in a quandary.
Which manuscript should I work on next? What should I get my husband for Christmas. Paper or plastic. (Oh wait I have totebags from a bajillion conferences that I can use.)
I’m a decisive person, really, I am. It’s just when the choice isn’t clear cut I find it harder. I was in a quandary for several months over quitting a job. I had another one lined up. The new one had a better boss. (Turned out to be the right decision to quit that job.)
What decisions do you make on a daily basis that put you in a quandary?
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Book Review Tuesday - Triple Exposure
This wasn't the book I planned on reviewing today. I forgot the other one would come via media mail.
Oops.
I just finished Triple Exposure by Colleen Thompson. This was a freebie I received at a conference, but I have to say I wouldn't have minded if I'd paid for it. And in doing research, I found out she has more books out.
I'm not loyal to too many authors. I find because of the pressure to crank them out, the quality can be questionable.
Triple Exposure follows the story of photographer Rachel Copeland after she returns home to Texas. She's be acquitted of murdering a young stalker. Part of the action is a loner named Zeke Pike. No one knows where he came from or where he's been. We later find out he has a past also.
Rachel comes home other father, a pilot who runs a glider operation, and her stepmother who runs a diner. This town is where Rachel grew up so there is the usual baggage that accompanies going home.
Soon strange accidents begin to happen and lest I give away too much of the story I won't go any further.
Suffice it to say that there were enought twists and turns that I was very surprised by the ending. That's hard to do since I write romantic suspense.
When I am through my current TBR pile I will definitely look for another Colleen Thompson book.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Happy News Monday - Chocolate
Reservatrol found in chocolate and cocoa.
I'll admit I'm not a huge chocolate fan. If I'm going to eat it, it will be dark and expensive.
And probably be accompanied by red wine.
Reservatrol is supposed to be good for you. Some studies suggest it keeps your heart healthy. Other studies suggest it helps with maintaining the proper blood sugar level. It must do something.
I find that the media jumps on these things as if there is one magic bullet to good health.
There isn't.
Eat right. Exercise. Get enough sleep.
No one wants to hear that.
People want to hear they can eat what they want and still be healthy. If they listened to their bodies they would knw that isn't true.
I've learned that I feel best when I eat a lot of veggies. Thankfully I love veggies so it isn't a hardship. I just have to expand my repetoire or food gets boring.
And the days I eat more of other things? I'm tired. Not focused.
So what do you know you need to eat that makes you feel good?
I'm off to have some celery and peanut butter.
I'll admit I'm not a huge chocolate fan. If I'm going to eat it, it will be dark and expensive.
And probably be accompanied by red wine.
Reservatrol is supposed to be good for you. Some studies suggest it keeps your heart healthy. Other studies suggest it helps with maintaining the proper blood sugar level. It must do something.
I find that the media jumps on these things as if there is one magic bullet to good health.
There isn't.
Eat right. Exercise. Get enough sleep.
No one wants to hear that.
People want to hear they can eat what they want and still be healthy. If they listened to their bodies they would knw that isn't true.
I've learned that I feel best when I eat a lot of veggies. Thankfully I love veggies so it isn't a hardship. I just have to expand my repetoire or food gets boring.
And the days I eat more of other things? I'm tired. Not focused.
So what do you know you need to eat that makes you feel good?
I'm off to have some celery and peanut butter.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday - Dr. Travis Stork
There is a show on during the day. Actually in the morning where I am. I watch it while I'm working out. It's called The Doctors. There's a pediatrican, a plastic surgeon, an ob/gyn and of course Dr. Travis Stork, ER doctor.
I love the show because I think it is no-nonsense without being stupid or treating people as if htey are stupid. There isn't fancy medical jargon, but there is sound advice.
And of course I like medical stuff.
And Dr. Travis Stork is not hard to look at. Being involved in emergency medicine is a plus also. As regular readers know, I'm a CPR instructor and I've been a member of a rescue squad for some time now.
From my research, he was on The Bachelor at one point. That isn't one of the shows I watch so I had no idea he was already a celebrity.
But he could play doctor with me anytime.
I haven't seen too many hot doctors, and I work in a hospital. My dog's vet is pretty nice looking and the oral surgeon who took my wisdom teeth at was pretty hot.
Did you have a nice-looking doctor at some point?
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Word Wednesday - alfresco
alfresco \al-FRES-koh\, adverb:
1. In the open air; outdoors.2. Taking place or located in the open air; outdoor
I've always thought this was a pretty word and the idea of it is fabulous.
We mostly use it as dining alfresco. I love to eat outside, when it is nice. We don't have a deck so we don't eat outside much.
My favorite experience is dining at a cafe's. We don't have many of those where I live and the town next to mine has ordinances against them. But when we lived in Europe they were everywhere. We would set out on a nice eveing and just decide where to eat based on who had a table clear. Or you could just get a coffee and sit and people watch. As a writer I love to people watch.
We once were in a cafe in Montreaux, Switzerland and watched a car fire. There really was "smoke on the water" like in the Deep Purple song that is set in that town in Switzerland.
Do you like to eat outside?
1. In the open air; outdoors.2. Taking place or located in the open air; outdoor
I've always thought this was a pretty word and the idea of it is fabulous.
We mostly use it as dining alfresco. I love to eat outside, when it is nice. We don't have a deck so we don't eat outside much.
My favorite experience is dining at a cafe's. We don't have many of those where I live and the town next to mine has ordinances against them. But when we lived in Europe they were everywhere. We would set out on a nice eveing and just decide where to eat based on who had a table clear. Or you could just get a coffee and sit and people watch. As a writer I love to people watch.
We once were in a cafe in Montreaux, Switzerland and watched a car fire. There really was "smoke on the water" like in the Deep Purple song that is set in that town in Switzerland.
Do you like to eat outside?
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
New Feature Tuesday Book Review
I will have a new feature beginning next week. Every other Tuesday I will do a book review.
The first one will be The Truth About You.
Look for it next week.
The first one will be The Truth About You.
Look for it next week.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Happy News Monday - Stretching your dollar
Makingthe most out of your money.
I LOVE a bargain. I even got my dog on sale.
But I'm a relative amatuer compared to some people. If I have a coupon when something's on sale that's a bonus.
We all need to make our dollar go further and this article gives us some tips on how to do it.
What was the last great bargain you got?
I LOVE a bargain. I even got my dog on sale.
But I'm a relative amatuer compared to some people. If I have a coupon when something's on sale that's a bonus.
We all need to make our dollar go further and this article gives us some tips on how to do it.
What was the last great bargain you got?
Friday, November 7, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday - Patrick Warburton
He may be an odd choice, but I have this thing about men's voices. My first voice crush was a DJ in Philadelphia on WMMR named Pierre Robert. He has the best voice. Since moving out of that area, whenever I'm near Philly I tune in to see if he's on. He isn't the most attractive person, but man does he have a great voice.So does Patrick Warburton. It's deep and gravelly.
The funny thing is you don't notice how nice someone's voice is if you hear it every day. I forget that was one of the things I found attractive about my husband until some friend of mine talks on the phone with him and then comments on what a great voice he has.
One of the things my heroes have in common are great voices. I've even given a few heroines good voices, too.
My mother had a deeper voice, but hated it. Mine's not super deep, but there are squeaky noises that a friend can't make that I am incapable of duplicating.
So, what actor or person in your life has a great voice?
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Word Wednesday - Plaudit
plaudit \PLAW-dit\, noun:
1. A round or demonstration of applause.2. Enthusiastic approval; an expression of praise.
We'd all like applause right? Well most of us. Some don't really need it. Other don't need it all the time. On those days when every obstacle seems to be in my way, I'd like applause for folding laundry. I'd like applause for how I raise my kids.
Today I'd like applause for getting out of bed. It's a dreary day where I am and I was up a little bit later than usual so getting out of bed was a feat.
On the other hand I gave myself plaudits for the number that was on the scale this morning. Woo hoo!
I rewared myself with playing the Wii. I just bought a pinball game and one of the games is one I actually played as a teenager. Blows my younger son's mind when I tell him.
So if we don't applaud ourselves and we can't expect others to applaud us, how do you reward yourself?
1. A round or demonstration of applause.2. Enthusiastic approval; an expression of praise.
We'd all like applause right? Well most of us. Some don't really need it. Other don't need it all the time. On those days when every obstacle seems to be in my way, I'd like applause for folding laundry. I'd like applause for how I raise my kids.
Today I'd like applause for getting out of bed. It's a dreary day where I am and I was up a little bit later than usual so getting out of bed was a feat.
On the other hand I gave myself plaudits for the number that was on the scale this morning. Woo hoo!
I rewared myself with playing the Wii. I just bought a pinball game and one of the games is one I actually played as a teenager. Blows my younger son's mind when I tell him.
So if we don't applaud ourselves and we can't expect others to applaud us, how do you reward yourself?
Monday, November 3, 2008
Happy News Monday - Turning clocks back
Turn your clocks back.
Swedish researchers have discovered that turning your clock back an hour for daylight savings time may reduce the risk of having a heart attack. Most likely it is because you get an extra hour of sleep.
Researchers have long said that people don't sleep enough. We are a twenty four seven society. I can say I probably sleep enough most of the time. I'm amazed by people who only need four hours of sleep. I cannot function like that. I need a minimum of 7 hours and get it most nights, but I consider my sleep time sacrosanct. It is a family trait, too. My father up until his death at 92 would still sleep ten hours at night. He never wavered from 8-10 hours of sleep. And the spouses of my siblings (and my spouse) know not to wake us up unless it is an emergency. One of my kids has the sleep gene as we call it. He slept through the night (8-5) when he was only a month old. He napped until he was 4 1/2 years old. I still consider a nap a great pleasure, though with kids it is hard to do.
How many hours a night of sleep do you get? How much do you really need?
cmr
Swedish researchers have discovered that turning your clock back an hour for daylight savings time may reduce the risk of having a heart attack. Most likely it is because you get an extra hour of sleep.
Researchers have long said that people don't sleep enough. We are a twenty four seven society. I can say I probably sleep enough most of the time. I'm amazed by people who only need four hours of sleep. I cannot function like that. I need a minimum of 7 hours and get it most nights, but I consider my sleep time sacrosanct. It is a family trait, too. My father up until his death at 92 would still sleep ten hours at night. He never wavered from 8-10 hours of sleep. And the spouses of my siblings (and my spouse) know not to wake us up unless it is an emergency. One of my kids has the sleep gene as we call it. He slept through the night (8-5) when he was only a month old. He napped until he was 4 1/2 years old. I still consider a nap a great pleasure, though with kids it is hard to do.
How many hours a night of sleep do you get? How much do you really need?
cmr
Friday, October 31, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday David Boreanaz
I have to admit I never watched Buffy the Vampire Slayer. I catch Angel in reruns sometimes.
No, I noticed David Boreanaz on Bones. Which as a writer of romantic supsense, I'm embarassed to say I watch. Because as we al know, that's tv and not reality. I know a guy who runs a csi lab and he'd disown me if he knew I was watching shows like that. On the other hand, I did read some of Kathy Reichs' books so there is a positive outcome there.
Anyway, I think it was the suit that did me in. I hadn't seen him in one on a regular basis. Something about a suit, especially a tailored one, makes a mediocre guy look good. Not that David Boreanaz is mediocre by anyone's standards.
Happy Halloween!
Monday, October 27, 2008
Happy News Monday - Two Sports Stories
I'm breaking with tradition and bringing you two sports stories that are making me happy personally.
The first one is about the Philadelphia Phillies. Not only are the in the World Series, they are one game away from winning it. I'm not a big baseball fan, but I am from the Philly area originally so when one of those teams makes it this far, I can't help, but cheer.
Go Phillies!
The other story is about Penn State.
Penn State, my alma mater, beat Ohio State this weekend. PSU was not favored to win. In talking to someone who saw the game, they said they were emotionally spent by the contest. I'm sorry I didn't get to see it, but I had my conference this weekend.
PSU is ranked third. The first two teams are good ones so it may mean that the Nittany Lions don't get to the play in the championship bowl, but it does mean that the naysayers who insisted Joepa was over the hill can now pipe down.
We are
Penn State!
cmr
The first one is about the Philadelphia Phillies. Not only are the in the World Series, they are one game away from winning it. I'm not a big baseball fan, but I am from the Philly area originally so when one of those teams makes it this far, I can't help, but cheer.
Go Phillies!
The other story is about Penn State.
Penn State, my alma mater, beat Ohio State this weekend. PSU was not favored to win. In talking to someone who saw the game, they said they were emotionally spent by the contest. I'm sorry I didn't get to see it, but I had my conference this weekend.
PSU is ranked third. The first two teams are good ones so it may mean that the Nittany Lions don't get to the play in the championship bowl, but it does mean that the naysayers who insisted Joepa was over the hill can now pipe down.
We are
Penn State!
cmr
Friday, October 24, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday - Colin Firth
Anyone who read this blog knows, I have a weakness for nerds. And frankly, if they are British, all the better. I lived in England at one point in my life. I found the British were true gentlemen. Most did not leer at a pretty woman walking by. And I don't mean me. I mean hot girls walking by. They were so much more discreet about things like that.
So back to Colin Firth.
I saw him in Bridget Jones' Diary, What a Girl Wants and Love Actually. Can you tell I like British comedies? I truly think the Brits have such a diverse sense of humor. It can be way darker than mine and that's saying a lot. They do farce like no one else. That's one brand of humor we Americans cannot seem to conquer. Watch one episode of Absolutely Fabulous and see what I mean.
So, Colin Firth. He can bumble his way my way anytime.
cmr
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Word Wednesday - Panache
panache \puh-NASH; -NAHSH\, noun:
1. Dash or flamboyance in manner or style.
2. A plume or bunch of feathers, esp. such a bunch worn on the helmet; any military plume, or ornamental group of feathers.
I knew about the first definition of panache, but not the second. I'd take it as a compliment if someone said I had panache. Since I'm an anti-fashionista I don't think that's going to happen. I have a pretty strong, outgoing personality, but to call me flamboyant would be taking it too far. Someone once likened me to Tigger. He doensn't have panache, just lots of energy.
Which is how I am around people. I feed off of that energy. My last review at work described me as "an active instructor." I think it meant I drove my boss nuts when he worked with me. I could not stand still.
Put me at a conference with 450 people and I'm the Energizer Bunny. And that's where I'll be this weekend.
Back to the word. I can't think of anyone who has panache. I probably knew some people in high school who did.
So, do you know anyone with panache?
1. Dash or flamboyance in manner or style.
2. A plume or bunch of feathers, esp. such a bunch worn on the helmet; any military plume, or ornamental group of feathers.
I knew about the first definition of panache, but not the second. I'd take it as a compliment if someone said I had panache. Since I'm an anti-fashionista I don't think that's going to happen. I have a pretty strong, outgoing personality, but to call me flamboyant would be taking it too far. Someone once likened me to Tigger. He doensn't have panache, just lots of energy.
Which is how I am around people. I feed off of that energy. My last review at work described me as "an active instructor." I think it meant I drove my boss nuts when he worked with me. I could not stand still.
Put me at a conference with 450 people and I'm the Energizer Bunny. And that's where I'll be this weekend.
Back to the word. I can't think of anyone who has panache. I probably knew some people in high school who did.
So, do you know anyone with panache?
Monday, October 20, 2008
Happy News - Stayin' Alive
The Bee Gees have the right beat.
The University of Illinois did a study and found that the Bee Gees 1970's hit Stayin Alive has the right beat for doing CPR. Think about it. You could hum that song and save someone's life.
Why did I pick this story to highlight today?
Because in February of 2009 I will be an American Heart Association CPR instructor for 15 years.
And anything that makes it easier for the everyday person to save a life, I'm all for it. I've lost track of how many people that I've taught CPR to. I could get you the number for this year if you really want. It's probably big. I've taught a lot this year.
What I don't know is if anyone has saved a life. Well, I do know someone who saved thier daughter from choking not long after I taught them to do the Heimlich Maneuver. Has anyone been saved by me teaching? I'd like to think so, but really if I were to stop teaching then I could assume no one will be saved.
But it takes the person on the street. The EMT's and paramedics and police officers may take a few minutes to get there. If you know CPR you can save that person. You can keep thier brain alive by pumping blood through it by performing CPR.
Isn't that powerful? The longest class is four hours long. That isn't a lot of time. Whose life could you save?
So sign up for a cpr course today.
cmr
The University of Illinois did a study and found that the Bee Gees 1970's hit Stayin Alive has the right beat for doing CPR. Think about it. You could hum that song and save someone's life.
Why did I pick this story to highlight today?
Because in February of 2009 I will be an American Heart Association CPR instructor for 15 years.
And anything that makes it easier for the everyday person to save a life, I'm all for it. I've lost track of how many people that I've taught CPR to. I could get you the number for this year if you really want. It's probably big. I've taught a lot this year.
What I don't know is if anyone has saved a life. Well, I do know someone who saved thier daughter from choking not long after I taught them to do the Heimlich Maneuver. Has anyone been saved by me teaching? I'd like to think so, but really if I were to stop teaching then I could assume no one will be saved.
But it takes the person on the street. The EMT's and paramedics and police officers may take a few minutes to get there. If you know CPR you can save that person. You can keep thier brain alive by pumping blood through it by performing CPR.
Isn't that powerful? The longest class is four hours long. That isn't a lot of time. Whose life could you save?
So sign up for a cpr course today.
cmr
Friday, October 17, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday - James Denton
Here's a man who can fix my pipes any time. James Denton. I actually don't watch Desperate Housewives, but I've seen him in the commercials for it. He did a stint on Reba as a marriage counselor that Barbra Jean is in love with. He goes on a date with Reba and Barbra Jean follows them.I love when an actor, as I've said before, can do comedy. I really beleive that a great trait to get you through life is to laugh at yourself.
I'm always a little creeped out when I meet someone without a sense of humor. And I can make most people laugh so when I can't, I find it odd.
My critique group was talking about embarassing moments the other day. It was hilarious. If you ever meet me, ask me to tell you my ski story. It's too long for here.
When I was in high school I worked in a college cafeteria. I was carrying two trays of bowls of Jello. And of course I dropped them in front of a full cafeteria of guys. The gave me a standing ovation. At the time I was too young and too serious to laugh at myself, but now I'd bow and say something funny.
So what is your most embarassing moment?
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Word Wednesday - vociferous
vociferous \voh-SIF-uhr-uhs\, adjective:
Making a loud outcry; clamorous; noisy.
I picked this one because it was at the top of the folder for these things.
I don't have a lot to say about it. Isn't that ironic?
I have a conference to attend in a week and a half and we are finishing up details. I had to put my cat to sleep on Monday so that day nothing got done. I'm revising a romantic comedy to pitch at the conference so that is where my head is.
Among other stresses in my life right now.
So sorry not so great today.
cmr
Making a loud outcry; clamorous; noisy.
I picked this one because it was at the top of the folder for these things.
I don't have a lot to say about it. Isn't that ironic?
I have a conference to attend in a week and a half and we are finishing up details. I had to put my cat to sleep on Monday so that day nothing got done. I'm revising a romantic comedy to pitch at the conference so that is where my head is.
Among other stresses in my life right now.
So sorry not so great today.
cmr
Monday, October 13, 2008
Happy News - MexicanMummies
Mexican mummies on display. I think this goes under the heading of quirky news not really happy news. Some graves were dug up because the families couldn't pay the grave tax. The conditions where they were buried mummified them.Now they are on display in a Mexico where they are fascinated with the dead.Obviously, since I named my book Corpse Whisperer, I have an odd fascination with the dead. There's a museum in Philadelphia called the Mutter Museum. It has all sorts of medical specimens. I can't get anyone to go with me. I had an invite to watch an embalming at a local funeral home. My husband forbids me to go. It creeps him out too much.That all said, when I die, I don't want anyone looking at me. I want a closed coffin. In fact, I want to me cremated. I want there to be a party in my honor where lots of Guinness is served and good wine.So what are your last wishes?
Friday, October 10, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday - Goran Visnjic
Today you get two pics of my hot hunk friday pick.Goran Visnjic is hot whether he is smiling nor not. The character he played on ER did not smile a lot. He always had messy hair that I wanted to make messier.
Ahem.
He has a lot of acting credits in his home country of Croatia. He has also appeared on a lot of talk shows here. He is a reason to watch ER reruns for sure.
Dr. Luka Kovac is certainly the dark, brooding character we want to fix.
What is it about wounded heroes that we love?
Do we really want to fix them or just love them?
Or is it deeper. Is it easier to be with a flawed person because we are so flawed?
Or is it deeper. Is it easier to be with a flawed person because we are so flawed?
cmr
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
I've been tagged. Again
But that's cool. One of twitter followers ghostposts tagged me http://susiehawes.multiply.com/journal/item/358/tagged
I have to tell you 6 random things about myself.
1. My full name is Christine and the year I was born it was the third most popular name for a baby, but my parents knew no one with that name.
2. I was brought home from the hospital on my father's 50th birthday. (Me 0 him 50)
3. My maternal grandfather was 70 the year I was born. (Me 0, him 70)
4. I was thirty when my oldest son was born. (Me 30, him 0)
5. My maternal grandfather was the only grandparent I knew. I was the youngest in the family and he died the year I was 9. My father is the only grandparent my kids knew and he died the year my youngest was 9.
6. I grew up outside of Philadelphia. I lived in England at one point in the very area the Penn family came from. They had a pew in the village church.
So, I tag
Charlotte Phillips
Holly Jangahiri
Emma Larkins
Velda Brotherton
Vivian Zabel
Mary Winter
Here are the rules.
The rules to play are easy and you should copy them to your blog…
1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on the blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag sixish people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know he or she has been tagged.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.
I have to tell you 6 random things about myself.
1. My full name is Christine and the year I was born it was the third most popular name for a baby, but my parents knew no one with that name.
2. I was brought home from the hospital on my father's 50th birthday. (Me 0 him 50)
3. My maternal grandfather was 70 the year I was born. (Me 0, him 70)
4. I was thirty when my oldest son was born. (Me 30, him 0)
5. My maternal grandfather was the only grandparent I knew. I was the youngest in the family and he died the year I was 9. My father is the only grandparent my kids knew and he died the year my youngest was 9.
6. I grew up outside of Philadelphia. I lived in England at one point in the very area the Penn family came from. They had a pew in the village church.
So, I tag
Charlotte Phillips
Holly Jangahiri
Emma Larkins
Velda Brotherton
Vivian Zabel
Mary Winter
Here are the rules.
The rules to play are easy and you should copy them to your blog…
1. Link to the person who tagged you.
2. Post the rules on the blog.
3. Write six random things about yourself.
4. Tag sixish people at the end of your post.
5. Let each person know he or she has been tagged.
6. Let the tagger know when your entry is up.
Word Wednesday - Melee
melee \MAY-lay; may-LAY\, noun:1. A fight or hand-to-hand struggle in which the combatants are mingled in one confused mass.2. A confused conflict or mingling.From http://www.dictionary.com/This is one of those words that I think sound like what it means.Melee. Say it out loud.It just sounds like confusion. That there is a lot going on.I don't think I've used it in my writing, but I haven't really had a melee in my writing. Maybe I should?I'm working on a romantic comedy. Do you think a melee could be funny? A food fight. That would be a melee. I don't see myself putting a food fight into a book. I watch too many Disney Channel movies not to think a food fight is a cliche.Or do you think it connotates a bad happening? A prison riot? I could put that in one of my romantic suspense manuscripts. Hmm. A thought.I always tell people you should start the book right before something big happens. Drop me in the yard right before the riot.I will have to think on that.Can you think of a sentence or a situation where a melee would be funny and not be a food fight?Thanks,cmr
Monday, October 6, 2008
Happy News Monday - Dog Valor
Canine a finalist for a valor award.
This story from happynews.com is about a dog that is up for a valor award. The awards are new and the dog, Pearl, is nominated in the working dog category. She saved her owner's life.
I was just watching a show about dogs last night and one of the problems they mentioned we are having with dogs in modern society is that they don't have a job.
My dog has several jobs. He keeps me fit by taking me on a walk. He cleans up the floor after dinner. He makes sure the kids get on the bus safely.
Not sure if he's completely satisfied in all of those jobs, but I wouldn't know if he is complaining.
Could I train him for more? Sure.
He has a great vocabulary such that we have to spell things like walk and treat.
I never thought he'd be much of a guard dog.
One day my brother-in-law walked into my house. I knew he was coming over. The dog didn't get that memo. The dog went from asleep to snarling in the kitchen.
Until he figured out it was his favorite person. Until that moment, I didn't think he' d defend me, but he would.
If someone hasn't been home when he was fed, when they do come home he gives a look and stares at his bowl trying to make the person think he hasn't been fed. Funny dog.
To come back to these awards, does the dog really know? I understand that show dogs have a sense they've done something good when they've won, but they do those show all the time. Does a dog really know he's done something good after the fact. We praise them right away because they live in the moment. If you give them an award days or even weeks later, they don't have any idea what is going on.
I think the awards are for the humans.
The dog's happy with an extra chew toy.
So, if you have a pet, has it done anything extraordinary?
This story from happynews.com is about a dog that is up for a valor award. The awards are new and the dog, Pearl, is nominated in the working dog category. She saved her owner's life.
I was just watching a show about dogs last night and one of the problems they mentioned we are having with dogs in modern society is that they don't have a job.
My dog has several jobs. He keeps me fit by taking me on a walk. He cleans up the floor after dinner. He makes sure the kids get on the bus safely.
Not sure if he's completely satisfied in all of those jobs, but I wouldn't know if he is complaining.
Could I train him for more? Sure.
He has a great vocabulary such that we have to spell things like walk and treat.
I never thought he'd be much of a guard dog.
One day my brother-in-law walked into my house. I knew he was coming over. The dog didn't get that memo. The dog went from asleep to snarling in the kitchen.
Until he figured out it was his favorite person. Until that moment, I didn't think he' d defend me, but he would.
If someone hasn't been home when he was fed, when they do come home he gives a look and stares at his bowl trying to make the person think he hasn't been fed. Funny dog.
To come back to these awards, does the dog really know? I understand that show dogs have a sense they've done something good when they've won, but they do those show all the time. Does a dog really know he's done something good after the fact. We praise them right away because they live in the moment. If you give them an award days or even weeks later, they don't have any idea what is going on.
I think the awards are for the humans.
The dog's happy with an extra chew toy.
So, if you have a pet, has it done anything extraordinary?
Friday, October 3, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday - Hugh Jackman
I saw him in Kate and Leopold and then in X-Men. Not only is he hot, he has talent.
And an accent to die for.
He was on Inside the Actor's Studio a few years ago and I enjoyed the interview. What really struck me was how much he obviously loved his wife. I think that is hot in a guy. Really. It was like a line in a rerun of Reba last night. Cheyenne and Van were talking about marriage and equating it to being in a candy store. Van told Cheyenne she was the only candy he saw in the store.
And that he'd love to unwrap her.
My husband just smiled and nodded at me.
That was how Hugh looked at his wife. As if she were the only candy in the store.
That's powerful and since I write romance it is an idea I want to incorporate in all of my books.
Do you think love in marriage should be that powerful?
cmr
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
I've been tagged
I've been tagged by Helen Ginger.
I need to tell you six odd things about me.
1. In college I inteveiwed to drive the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile. I thought it would be a fun job. I didn't get it, but I don't know why.
2. To support myself in college, I delivered pizzas for Domino's Pizza. I was one of the few females drivers and of course I had a blast. You spent most of the time out on the road and you could blast the radio and you got paid for it. I was one of the drivers that if the pizza could potentially be close to being late, you gave it to me because I knew the area and could get it there on time. This was back when they had 30 minute delivery guarantee. The store owner would use some formula and map out what his delivery area was to insure the pizzas got there on time.
3.There was exactly, to the day, nine months between my first date with my husband and our wedding. And I wasn't pregnant. I just knew he was the one.
4. I eat all of each type of food on my plate. I will eat all the meat then all the veggies then all of the starch. I never mingle my eating. (OCD, much!)
5. My youngest son was born on his due date.
6. I was born with dark, red hair.
Okay, how was that?
So I get to tag some people.
Angela James
Lillie Ammann
Charlotte Phillips
Ian O'Neill
Stephen Prosapio
Irene Peterson
Do it to it friends.
cmr
I need to tell you six odd things about me.
1. In college I inteveiwed to drive the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile. I thought it would be a fun job. I didn't get it, but I don't know why.
2. To support myself in college, I delivered pizzas for Domino's Pizza. I was one of the few females drivers and of course I had a blast. You spent most of the time out on the road and you could blast the radio and you got paid for it. I was one of the drivers that if the pizza could potentially be close to being late, you gave it to me because I knew the area and could get it there on time. This was back when they had 30 minute delivery guarantee. The store owner would use some formula and map out what his delivery area was to insure the pizzas got there on time.
3.There was exactly, to the day, nine months between my first date with my husband and our wedding. And I wasn't pregnant. I just knew he was the one.
4. I eat all of each type of food on my plate. I will eat all the meat then all the veggies then all of the starch. I never mingle my eating. (OCD, much!)
5. My youngest son was born on his due date.
6. I was born with dark, red hair.
Okay, how was that?
So I get to tag some people.
Angela James
Lillie Ammann
Charlotte Phillips
Ian O'Neill
Stephen Prosapio
Irene Peterson
Do it to it friends.
cmr
Word Wednesday - Fettle
fettle \FET-l\, noun:
A state or condition of fitness or order; state of mind; spirits -- often used in the phrase "in fine fettle." From www.dictionary .com
I guess I'm in a fine fettle today. Got a request for a partial manuscript yesterday. Already sent it in. My critique group is coming over.
I picked this word because in six weeks of getting word of the day it was the first word I hadn't heard of before. Some of the words I wasn't clear on the definition, but I'd seen them before. This one was brand new. Part of my reason for getting a word in my inbox each day was to expand my vocabulary. As a writer, words are my tools. A craftsman can never have enough tools. I'm not sure where I'm going to use this word, but I will try very hard in the next few days to work it into conversation.
Can you use it in a sentence?
A state or condition of fitness or order; state of mind; spirits -- often used in the phrase "in fine fettle." From www.dictionary .com
I guess I'm in a fine fettle today. Got a request for a partial manuscript yesterday. Already sent it in. My critique group is coming over.
I picked this word because in six weeks of getting word of the day it was the first word I hadn't heard of before. Some of the words I wasn't clear on the definition, but I'd seen them before. This one was brand new. Part of my reason for getting a word in my inbox each day was to expand my vocabulary. As a writer, words are my tools. A craftsman can never have enough tools. I'm not sure where I'm going to use this word, but I will try very hard in the next few days to work it into conversation.
Can you use it in a sentence?
Monday, September 29, 2008
Happy News Fashion Show
Fashion Show
Check out this fashion show in Japan.
What were the models wearing? Adult diapers.
Now here's a case of actually acknowleding the elephant in the room. We are all going to get old. Our life expectancy is 77.8 years. I have longevity in my family. My maternal grandfather was 79 back in the 70's when he died. My father lived to be 92. I currently have two uncles still alive. One is 90 and going for alternative cancer treatment in Mexico. (His cancer, we suspect, is from what he was involved in during WW2) This uncle still drives and takes care of his own house. The other uncle is 88. He can run circles around people half his age. He gardens and goes to church every day. Other than my uncle, there is no cancer on that side of the family.
So I could, one day, have to wear adult diapers.
So Japan, who has an aging population, has decided to bring the subject out into the open. I have to admire that.
But it still sucks to get old. More so if you aren't healthy.
I think if I have to be hold, I want my mind to go first so that I have no idea that I'm in diapers.
What bothers you most about aging?
cmr
Check out this fashion show in Japan.
What were the models wearing? Adult diapers.
Now here's a case of actually acknowleding the elephant in the room. We are all going to get old. Our life expectancy is 77.8 years. I have longevity in my family. My maternal grandfather was 79 back in the 70's when he died. My father lived to be 92. I currently have two uncles still alive. One is 90 and going for alternative cancer treatment in Mexico. (His cancer, we suspect, is from what he was involved in during WW2) This uncle still drives and takes care of his own house. The other uncle is 88. He can run circles around people half his age. He gardens and goes to church every day. Other than my uncle, there is no cancer on that side of the family.
So I could, one day, have to wear adult diapers.
So Japan, who has an aging population, has decided to bring the subject out into the open. I have to admire that.
But it still sucks to get old. More so if you aren't healthy.
I think if I have to be hold, I want my mind to go first so that I have no idea that I'm in diapers.
What bothers you most about aging?
cmr
Friday, September 26, 2008
Hot Friday Hunk - Hugh Grant
Anyone who reads this blog regularly knows I have an affinity for nerds.
That's why I find Hugh Grant attractive. He plays these beffuddled heroes that are just so cute you want to squeeze him. My fave is his Prime Minister in Love Actually.
He goes around what for him is a dodgy neighborhood to find the woman he loves. Then he has his entourage take them to the pantomime at the local village school.
On top of that he has an accent. Remember in A Fish Called Wanda where Jamie Lee Curtis' character went nuts when he spoke Italian. That's almost me when someone has an accent. I had a boss once who had a southern accent. He would always ask me to do the dirty jobs because he knew I would all because of the accent.
But not every accent is attractive and since I have no desire to offend anyone I won't say which ones.
Some are more attractive than others.
A French accent, especially because everything sounds beautiful in French.
So what accent do you find the most attractive?
cmr
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Word Wednesday - numismatics
numismatics \noo-miz-MAT-iks; -mis-; nyoo-\, noun:
the collection and study of money (and coins in particular).
From Dictionary.com
I actually received this one this morning and it was only one of three words in a month that I hadn't heard before. I didn't realize just what a vocabulary I have. I don't see it as big, but I do get my chops busted at my first aid squad. One woman said she needed a dictionary any time she talked to me. I don't feel I put on airs. I really just use those words. Another friend always asks me what a word means and in a conversation with someone I've known for years, he admitted he looks the words up after the conversation. I thought that was humorous.
And one guy actually asked me to spell a word. I'm also a good speller (not a good typist) so that wasn't a problem.
Then late one night in a Dunkin' Donuts he used that very same word. Too funny.
If no one busts your chops where I work, then no one likes you.
Back to the word.
I always though Europe had it right. They have a one Euro coin and before the Euro each country had a coin that represented one of thier paper money. Not the big bulky dollar coin we make. Theirs were usually small and convenient to keep in your pocket.
The study of money. I would assume it would also go along with collecting money of different countries. We used to have a collection because we have a friend who is an airline pilot. He'd bring back coins from wherever he went.
Then we opted to donate them to a charity. Forget which one, but the charity would take foreign money.
We don't collect anything, but dust bunnies now.
So what do you collect?
the collection and study of money (and coins in particular).
From Dictionary.com
I actually received this one this morning and it was only one of three words in a month that I hadn't heard before. I didn't realize just what a vocabulary I have. I don't see it as big, but I do get my chops busted at my first aid squad. One woman said she needed a dictionary any time she talked to me. I don't feel I put on airs. I really just use those words. Another friend always asks me what a word means and in a conversation with someone I've known for years, he admitted he looks the words up after the conversation. I thought that was humorous.
And one guy actually asked me to spell a word. I'm also a good speller (not a good typist) so that wasn't a problem.
Then late one night in a Dunkin' Donuts he used that very same word. Too funny.
If no one busts your chops where I work, then no one likes you.
Back to the word.
I always though Europe had it right. They have a one Euro coin and before the Euro each country had a coin that represented one of thier paper money. Not the big bulky dollar coin we make. Theirs were usually small and convenient to keep in your pocket.
The study of money. I would assume it would also go along with collecting money of different countries. We used to have a collection because we have a friend who is an airline pilot. He'd bring back coins from wherever he went.
Then we opted to donate them to a charity. Forget which one, but the charity would take foreign money.
We don't collect anything, but dust bunnies now.
So what do you collect?
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Happy News Monday Kids' Fitness
http://www.happynews.com/news/9192008/kid-gyms-send-children-play-treadmills.htm
I'm not sure how I feel about this article.
There is one of these kid fitness places next to the dojon where my son does Taekwondo. When it opened I talked to the guy and realized there was a market for it. And he isn't packed, but there are always kids in there.
One person says in the article that she bought Wii Fit so she didn't have to force her kids to be active. It didn't seem right to her.
First off, as parents we often have to force our kids to do things they don't want. Secondly, if we live an active lifestyle our kids will.
I read this article after taking an hour long hike with my family. It isn't something we do every weekend, but it is something I wish we could do every weekend.
So what's wrong with making your kid be active?
I live in an area where the kids can be highly scheduled so it isn't simple to just go out and play wiht the kids in the neighborhood, but frankly, most video games are done by themselves so why can't a kid ride his bike by himself?
I'm old-fashioned, I realize. My kids are limited in their video game use. They are limited to their tv watching also.
I'm not as strict as some, but not as free as most, I guess.
So what do you think this says about our society that kids have to go to the gym to get exercise instead of walking outside their house?
I'm not sure how I feel about this article.
There is one of these kid fitness places next to the dojon where my son does Taekwondo. When it opened I talked to the guy and realized there was a market for it. And he isn't packed, but there are always kids in there.
One person says in the article that she bought Wii Fit so she didn't have to force her kids to be active. It didn't seem right to her.
First off, as parents we often have to force our kids to do things they don't want. Secondly, if we live an active lifestyle our kids will.
I read this article after taking an hour long hike with my family. It isn't something we do every weekend, but it is something I wish we could do every weekend.
So what's wrong with making your kid be active?
I live in an area where the kids can be highly scheduled so it isn't simple to just go out and play wiht the kids in the neighborhood, but frankly, most video games are done by themselves so why can't a kid ride his bike by himself?
I'm old-fashioned, I realize. My kids are limited in their video game use. They are limited to their tv watching also.
I'm not as strict as some, but not as free as most, I guess.
So what do you think this says about our society that kids have to go to the gym to get exercise instead of walking outside their house?
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Friday, September 19, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday - Jay Mohr
I love a guy who can make me laugh. I think I like people in general who can make me laugh. From the guys at work to my friend Suzanne when we seem to have our Lucy and Ethel moments. I like to laugh. If there's a joke to be had I will figure it out. I also like making people laugh.
But I couldn't imagine doing it for a living.
Okay, yes I could, but not at this late date. I'm a writer instead.
And I can make people laugh with my writing.
So Jay Mohr is my hunk this week. He's actualy starring in a new show called
Gary UnMarried. The previews look cute, but you can never tell for sure.
He's a comedian orignally. And because my husband's car has satelllie radio I've heard Jay's stuff on Laugh Break.
He makes me laugh.
I tell the young women I know that they should choose a man they can laugh with because that's what will get you through the rough times. And in life and marriage and kids there are rough times.
So who in your life makes you laugh?
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Word Wednesday Kitsch
kitsch \KICH\, noun:
1. Art characterized by pretentious bad taste.
2. Relating to, or characterized by, kitsch.
I like kitsch.
Whenever we go on vacation I love to play miniature golf. (Assuming it isn't snowing).
I call it hokey golf if it has a windmill or Paul Bunyon.
That's kitsch. There is no good taste in hitting a ball through ice cream mountain. And that's cool with me. I'm only pretentious when it comes to wine. No boxes. No White Zinfandel.
But on a road trip, I want to see that giant ball of twine. Or the seventy cows painted different colors. I cannot always convince my better half, but sometimes I do.
We were in Atlantic City in February. Next to Atlantic City is Margate. What's in Margate? Big kitsch. Lucy. It's an elephant that used to be a motel. Now that's kitsch.
I love it.
I don't think I've ever imbued a character with a love of kitsch, but seeing as I'm writing more romantic comedy I may just have to do that.
So what's the best kitsch you've ever seen?
Have you convinced your spouse to stop and see the tractor graveyard?
1. Art characterized by pretentious bad taste.
2. Relating to, or characterized by, kitsch.
I like kitsch.
Whenever we go on vacation I love to play miniature golf. (Assuming it isn't snowing).
I call it hokey golf if it has a windmill or Paul Bunyon.
That's kitsch. There is no good taste in hitting a ball through ice cream mountain. And that's cool with me. I'm only pretentious when it comes to wine. No boxes. No White Zinfandel.
But on a road trip, I want to see that giant ball of twine. Or the seventy cows painted different colors. I cannot always convince my better half, but sometimes I do.
We were in Atlantic City in February. Next to Atlantic City is Margate. What's in Margate? Big kitsch. Lucy. It's an elephant that used to be a motel. Now that's kitsch.
I love it.
I don't think I've ever imbued a character with a love of kitsch, but seeing as I'm writing more romantic comedy I may just have to do that.
So what's the best kitsch you've ever seen?
Have you convinced your spouse to stop and see the tractor graveyard?
Monday, September 15, 2008
Monday Happy News
http://www.happynews.com/news/9102008/59-year-old-france-gives-birth-triplets.htm
Here's a case of me wondering why you would want to.
This 59 year old woman gave birth to triplets.
Wow.
I had enough trouble with one at a time when I was in my early 30's. I could not imagine a baby now in my early 40's. I'm tired just thinking about it.
But for this woman this is happy news.
cmr
Here's a case of me wondering why you would want to.
This 59 year old woman gave birth to triplets.
Wow.
I had enough trouble with one at a time when I was in my early 30's. I could not imagine a baby now in my early 40's. I'm tired just thinking about it.
But for this woman this is happy news.
cmr
Friday, September 12, 2008
Hot Hunk Friday - Firefighters
Today I bring you a montage of firefighters. Anyone who knows me know I LOVE firefighters.So here are some of my fave pics. I put firefighters in my books often.
Supposedly there are dogs in the picture above. I can't find any. Can you? What's your favorite book with a firefighter in it?
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Word Wednesday
This is my first Word Wednesday. Each Wednesday I will have a new word to discuss.
immolate \IM-uh-layt\, transitive verb:
1. To sacrifice; to offer in sacrifice; to kill as a sacrificial victim.2. To kill or destroy, often by fire. (Dictionary.com)
This word really gives me the creeps. On so many levels. The whole idea of being burned to death is bad enough. I’m married to a firefighter so many burning is the worst death possible. He can’t even stand when the fireplace smells like burnt wood.
And to do that to another human being. Well I cannot imagine.
I find this word, even under the second definition, has strong connotations. Destroy is a powerful word.
So my assignment for you is to use immolate in a sentence.
cmr
immolate \IM-uh-layt\, transitive verb:
1. To sacrifice; to offer in sacrifice; to kill as a sacrificial victim.2. To kill or destroy, often by fire. (Dictionary.com)
This word really gives me the creeps. On so many levels. The whole idea of being burned to death is bad enough. I’m married to a firefighter so many burning is the worst death possible. He can’t even stand when the fireplace smells like burnt wood.
And to do that to another human being. Well I cannot imagine.
I find this word, even under the second definition, has strong connotations. Destroy is a powerful word.
So my assignment for you is to use immolate in a sentence.
cmr
Monday, September 8, 2008
Happy News Quote
I found this at Happy News.
"Anything I've ever done that ultimately was worthwhile... initially scared me to death."
– Betty Bender
I hate change. No, what I really dislike is the anticipation of change. You are riding along and life's treating you okay then you find out something has to change. Or something is going to change. It may not be anything drastic, but I still get agita when I learn about it.
My office moved at the beginning of the year. This was actually a change I looked forward to. We'd been next to the morgue and now we were moving to brandy new offices. Yeah! I would now have my own computer.
Worked out great.
Now I'm sharing my office with someone. Nice guy. Love to work with him, but now the office isn't just mine. I knew this would happen, but here's a change I didn't anticipate. I have to move items around. I have to realize that I now need to accommodate another person.
Change.
This has been a year full of change. I started the year with two books I was anticipating being released. One was not as far along in the editing process as I thought. And for reasons that had little to do with the publisher, I pulled it.
Then the other publisher dissolved.
So now I have nothing coming out. That's scary.
I quit a job I'd been doing for 8 years. That was really scary.
But all of those things have been good in the long run.
Back to the quote.
I know rationally change is good, but thinking about it still gives me agita and I have to let myself feel it and move on.
Good life lesson.
So how do you feel about change?
cmr
"Anything I've ever done that ultimately was worthwhile... initially scared me to death."
– Betty Bender
I hate change. No, what I really dislike is the anticipation of change. You are riding along and life's treating you okay then you find out something has to change. Or something is going to change. It may not be anything drastic, but I still get agita when I learn about it.
My office moved at the beginning of the year. This was actually a change I looked forward to. We'd been next to the morgue and now we were moving to brandy new offices. Yeah! I would now have my own computer.
Worked out great.
Now I'm sharing my office with someone. Nice guy. Love to work with him, but now the office isn't just mine. I knew this would happen, but here's a change I didn't anticipate. I have to move items around. I have to realize that I now need to accommodate another person.
Change.
This has been a year full of change. I started the year with two books I was anticipating being released. One was not as far along in the editing process as I thought. And for reasons that had little to do with the publisher, I pulled it.
Then the other publisher dissolved.
So now I have nothing coming out. That's scary.
I quit a job I'd been doing for 8 years. That was really scary.
But all of those things have been good in the long run.
Back to the quote.
I know rationally change is good, but thinking about it still gives me agita and I have to let myself feel it and move on.
Good life lesson.
So how do you feel about change?
cmr
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Here Comes Hanna
I actually am revising a story that has the name Hanna in it. Spelled that way and all.
There's a flood watch for my town. We can be an island when it floods. I hope I get back into town from my party.
Adios.
cmr
There's a flood watch for my town. We can be an island when it floods. I hope I get back into town from my party.
Adios.
cmr
Friday, September 5, 2008
Hot Fridays! Colin Farrell
The epitome of a bad boy. Colin Farrell.The body. The accent. The intense roles he plays. Whew.
I'm fanning myself as I write this.
And look who he has dated. Egad.
To date I actually haven't seen a Colin Farrell movie all the way through. I keep catching them on TV and I keep being called away.
I wonder if my husband does that on purpose?
cmr
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Labor Day Off
I'm taking Labor Day off from blogging. I will be back on Friday with my usual Friday Hunk.
Next week I will start a new Wednesday feature.
Stay tuned and enjoy the long weekend for those in the U.S.
cmr
Next week I will start a new Wednesday feature.
Stay tuned and enjoy the long weekend for those in the U.S.
cmr
Friday, August 29, 2008
Friday Hunk Ty Pennington
Ty Pennington. Ah. What can I say. I like a man who knows how to use his tools? A man who will use whatever tool he needs to get the job done? You get the picture.
He seems like a really nice guy. A friend of mine did some work for his show Extreme Makeover Home Edition. She was in one of the trailers one day and in walked Ty. He stuck out his hand and introduced himself. As if she wouldn't know who he was. But that's what makes him even more attractive. He didn't assume she knew who he was. He didn't assume he was such a big star that he needed no introduction. That makes a man sexy.
And it is an added bonus that he knows how to use his tool. Ahem.
Monday, August 25, 2008
The Jo Bros
http://www.happynews.com/news/8212008/jonas-brothers-notch-third-biggest-debut-2008.htm
Having kids in the demographics that Disney Channel caters to I know all about the Jonas Brothers. I've seen Camp Rock and I may even have a Jonas Brothers song on my iPod.
I reallly want these kids to succeed. As they obviously have.
What's really great when you see documentaries about them you see their parents right there. In fact the whole family is on the road with them. Even the bonus Jonas, their little brother.
It does arm the heart and I'm glad Disney has an avenue for artists like this. They have what seems to be a safer place for kids to be stars.
When I was a kid you could watch the shows from 8 to 9 at night with the whole family on network TV. Not anymore.
But Disney is a haven. I can watch with my kids and or not and not have to worry about the content.
Go Mickey!
Having kids in the demographics that Disney Channel caters to I know all about the Jonas Brothers. I've seen Camp Rock and I may even have a Jonas Brothers song on my iPod.
I reallly want these kids to succeed. As they obviously have.
What's really great when you see documentaries about them you see their parents right there. In fact the whole family is on the road with them. Even the bonus Jonas, their little brother.
It does arm the heart and I'm glad Disney has an avenue for artists like this. They have what seems to be a safer place for kids to be stars.
When I was a kid you could watch the shows from 8 to 9 at night with the whole family on network TV. Not anymore.
But Disney is a haven. I can watch with my kids and or not and not have to worry about the content.
Go Mickey!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Friday Hunk Eric Dane aka McSteamy
Eric Dane is not my fave of the three hotties on Grey's Anatomy.
He is my second fave. BUT.
That scene at the end of one of the season' is hot, hot hot.
I watched it and jumped my husband directly afterward. I mean directly.
I mean a hot man in just a towel. How can anyone resist that. I couldn't.
So here is Eric Dane for all to see in his towel glory. I mean GLORY! Woo hoo.
A man in a towel. What is not to love.
cmr
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Silkie Black Cock
Wish I'd had a camera.
It's actually a type of poultry I saw at the local 4-H fair.
I love to see all the animals.
Up close and personl with my fave, the cows. They have such soulful eyes.
The horses that are just magnificent.
We always hope the llamas don't spit at us. Did you know that llamas are territorial and that they make great guard animals?
I want a lop-eared bunny. They had two really black ones that I just thought were adorable.
My kids went on lots of rides and we ate fabulous ice cream.
That's what I did yesterday instead of writing!
cmr
It's actually a type of poultry I saw at the local 4-H fair.
I love to see all the animals.
Up close and personl with my fave, the cows. They have such soulful eyes.
The horses that are just magnificent.
We always hope the llamas don't spit at us. Did you know that llamas are territorial and that they make great guard animals?
I want a lop-eared bunny. They had two really black ones that I just thought were adorable.
My kids went on lots of rides and we ate fabulous ice cream.
That's what I did yesterday instead of writing!
cmr
Monday, August 18, 2008
It was a dark and stormy night . . .
http://www.happynews.com/news/8142008/top-dishonors-writing-go-washington-man.htm
This post is about my favorite contest. I've never entered and having seen the winners, I'm not sure I'd come close. This contest is the Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest. Every year they pick the worse beginning of a novel.
This year's winner, Garrison Spik.
We talk so much as writers about great beginnings. But can we really write a bad beginning. Does it take more talent to intentionally write a bad beginning? For instance when you see an actor playing a dumb character is it easier when they are already dumb or does the actor have to be smart to get the nuances of why the character is dumb.
Thankfully I've never read any horrid beginnings to novels. I've read some that didn't grab me.
So, could you enter this contest? What would your entry be?
Feel free to comment below.
cmr
This post is about my favorite contest. I've never entered and having seen the winners, I'm not sure I'd come close. This contest is the Bulwer-Lytton Fiction Contest. Every year they pick the worse beginning of a novel.
This year's winner, Garrison Spik.
We talk so much as writers about great beginnings. But can we really write a bad beginning. Does it take more talent to intentionally write a bad beginning? For instance when you see an actor playing a dumb character is it easier when they are already dumb or does the actor have to be smart to get the nuances of why the character is dumb.
Thankfully I've never read any horrid beginnings to novels. I've read some that didn't grab me.
So, could you enter this contest? What would your entry be?
Feel free to comment below.
cmr
Friday, August 15, 2008
Friday Hunk Stargate Guy
He's on Stargate. Not a show I watch, but sometimes I'm tempted. If it is on and I'm flipping through I'll watch as long as he's on the screen.
I first saw him on an episode of Dawson's Creek I didn't watch that often either but he had my pausing in my channel surfing.
I don't think I've ever seen him with combed hair. Sometimes he's clean shaven, but he's so hot.
I couldn't even tell you what else he's been in, but I'd follow him through a stargate anyday.
I don't even know anything about him. It doesn't matter. I think he's hot.
Is there anyone you've seen who it just doesn't matter if he's a serial killer, you just want to look at him because he is so attractive?
cmr
Monday, August 11, 2008
Commitment
http://www.happynews.com/news/732008/thrill-commitment.htm
Here's an article about commitment. I found it really interesting. It pertains to writing very easily.
When we start a new book, it's like being strapped into a brand new rollercoaster. You have no idea where you are going. Will this book be published? But you have to be committed to see it to the end.
This is also true in life as this writer points out. You have to be committed to your life, to your marriage, to your kids, to your career.
No use doing something half way right? So write that book. Revise that book. Get feedback on it. Rewrite it. Polish it.
Send it out. There is no use spending that much time on something if you don't plan on sending it out. Why would you put that much effort into something if you don't plan on trying to get it published?
I guess there is art for art's sake, but I'm not one of those.
So send it out!
Make a commitment to that book. See it through until the end.
Here's an article about commitment. I found it really interesting. It pertains to writing very easily.
When we start a new book, it's like being strapped into a brand new rollercoaster. You have no idea where you are going. Will this book be published? But you have to be committed to see it to the end.
This is also true in life as this writer points out. You have to be committed to your life, to your marriage, to your kids, to your career.
No use doing something half way right? So write that book. Revise that book. Get feedback on it. Rewrite it. Polish it.
Send it out. There is no use spending that much time on something if you don't plan on sending it out. Why would you put that much effort into something if you don't plan on trying to get it published?
I guess there is art for art's sake, but I'm not one of those.
So send it out!
Make a commitment to that book. See it through until the end.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
I've been tagged
I've been tagged to answer twelve questions by Helen Ginger
I'll give my answer to the questions and then I'll tag three people to answer them also. Hm. Who shall it be?
I'll think on it as I'm answering the questions.
1) Computer, longhand, or other?
Computer. I used to do longhand and them type it in but that takes too long. Plus I have a laptop and wireless so I can sit in any comfy chair I want.
.2) Coffee or tea?
Both I drink tea with breakfast and will have coffee later on in the day when I'm going to work. I do data entry and the office has a Kuerig coffee maker so I can make whatever I want.
3) Day or night?
I'm assuming you mean writing. Morning. That's when I have my creative energy. Though if I'm editing or revising I can do that anytime, anywhere.
4) Favorite genre to write?
Romantic comedy. I've only written two in that genre, but I had a really good time with both of them.
5) Pencil or pen to edit?
Pen. I truly hate writing with a pencil. Never do it unless I am doing math and I rarely do that on paper since I stink at it. And the ink must be black.
6) Unusual writing quirk or trait.
I had to think about this one. I write the first draft with mostly dialogue and very little description I call it the "naked in no-man's land" draft. I fill that all in on the second pass.
7)Writing from home or writing in a cozy café?
Home. I am so nosy that I get nothing done if there are people to watch.
8) Music or silence while your write?
Any music without words. If there are words I'll sing to it, but the music gets my creative juices flowing.
.9) Favorite motivational writing quote?
I don't have one.
10) Favorite bookmark?
All I ever use are those post cards that come in magazines. My husband reads a lot of them and he usually has some hanging around on his nightstand.
11) Favorite fictional character of all time?
James Bond And yes, I've read the books. And I love the movies.
12) Most admired living writer today?
Suz Brockmann. She delivers every time and she's a really nice person.
Now who to tag.
Caridad Pineiro
Irene Peterson
Ginger Simpson.
Tag you're it ladies.
cmr
I'll give my answer to the questions and then I'll tag three people to answer them also. Hm. Who shall it be?
I'll think on it as I'm answering the questions.
1) Computer, longhand, or other?
Computer. I used to do longhand and them type it in but that takes too long. Plus I have a laptop and wireless so I can sit in any comfy chair I want.
.2) Coffee or tea?
Both I drink tea with breakfast and will have coffee later on in the day when I'm going to work. I do data entry and the office has a Kuerig coffee maker so I can make whatever I want.
3) Day or night?
I'm assuming you mean writing. Morning. That's when I have my creative energy. Though if I'm editing or revising I can do that anytime, anywhere.
4) Favorite genre to write?
Romantic comedy. I've only written two in that genre, but I had a really good time with both of them.
5) Pencil or pen to edit?
Pen. I truly hate writing with a pencil. Never do it unless I am doing math and I rarely do that on paper since I stink at it. And the ink must be black.
6) Unusual writing quirk or trait.
I had to think about this one. I write the first draft with mostly dialogue and very little description I call it the "naked in no-man's land" draft. I fill that all in on the second pass.
7)Writing from home or writing in a cozy café?
Home. I am so nosy that I get nothing done if there are people to watch.
8) Music or silence while your write?
Any music without words. If there are words I'll sing to it, but the music gets my creative juices flowing.
.9) Favorite motivational writing quote?
I don't have one.
10) Favorite bookmark?
All I ever use are those post cards that come in magazines. My husband reads a lot of them and he usually has some hanging around on his nightstand.
11) Favorite fictional character of all time?
James Bond And yes, I've read the books. And I love the movies.
12) Most admired living writer today?
Suz Brockmann. She delivers every time and she's a really nice person.
Now who to tag.
Caridad Pineiro
Irene Peterson
Ginger Simpson.
Tag you're it ladies.
cmr
Friday, August 8, 2008
Friday Hunk - Clive Owen
Clive Owen came to my attention when I saw The Driver. It is a series of short films about a man who has to drive a BMW in various situations. One involves Madonna as a diva and was directed by Guy Ritchie. In fact all of them were directed by big name directors. Most were dark and gritty. And Clive Owen was the driver in each one.
When his name was batted around to replace Pierce Brosnan in the James Bond films I was pretty excited. I LOVE James Bond movies.
But that didn't happen.
So what did Clive Owen do?
He was in The Pink Panther with Steve Martin. He's Agent 006. He asks Steve Martin if he knows what that means. And Steve Martin as Clouseau responds, "It means you're not quite good enough."
I think it showed he could laugh at himself. Which if you read this blog ever you know I LOVE that in a man. Or in anyone.
Lord knows I have ample opportunity to laugh at myself. I digress.
Here's my question for this Friday.
Who would you have chosen to play James Bond?
cmr
Monday, August 4, 2008
Good news for mice
http://www.happynews.com/news/812008/drug-gives-couch-potato-mice-benefits-workout.htm
This article talks about a new drug that gives mice the same benefits as exercise.
I'm writing this after working out for an hour this morning.
I don't hate exercise. I do like the energy I get from it, but there are some days it just doesn't get done. This pill would be fantastic. I wouldnt feel guilty on those days. Or feel fat.
Right now it is only for mice.
Darn.
Guess I still have to get my butt out the door to walk the dog.
There are weight loss products on the market.
But have you read the label for Alli?
Greasy explosive diarrhea. So pick up Alli and Depends.
I think I'll stay fat.
But here's the question.
If there was a pill that gave the same benefits as exercise would you take it regardless of the side effects?
cmr
This article talks about a new drug that gives mice the same benefits as exercise.
I'm writing this after working out for an hour this morning.
I don't hate exercise. I do like the energy I get from it, but there are some days it just doesn't get done. This pill would be fantastic. I wouldnt feel guilty on those days. Or feel fat.
Right now it is only for mice.
Darn.
Guess I still have to get my butt out the door to walk the dog.
There are weight loss products on the market.
But have you read the label for Alli?
Greasy explosive diarrhea. So pick up Alli and Depends.
I think I'll stay fat.
But here's the question.
If there was a pill that gave the same benefits as exercise would you take it regardless of the side effects?
cmr
Friday, August 1, 2008
Jerry Trainor of ICarly
This may be an odd choice for some for a Friday Hunk, but I have a soft spot for nerdy, artsy guys. Jerry Trainor is from a Nickelodeon show called ICarly. He is the guardian for his little sister Carly of the show's name.
He's an artist and a pretty cool brother. It is one of those shows I can watch with my kids.
This guys seems like he's having so much fun with the role of Spencer. He gets to be wacky, but still be the grownup who helps Carly through some normal teenage problems. The show isn't deep like an Afterschool Special, but it still can teach. It does lead to conversations with my kids sometimes.
And it looks like so much fun to shoot the show.
The other reason I like Spencer is he's a sock fanatic. Like I am. I don't have any that flash, but I'm working on finding them.
Plus, I've written a few manuscripts with nerds in them that I'm shopping around right now.
One I'm writing actually involves a webcast in it so it has been fun researching how that is done.
So maybe my pic is odd, but it makes sense to me.
Nerds rule the world.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Happy Endings
Seeing as I always put romance into my books and some of what I've written is really romannce,
I LOVE a happy ending.
http://www.happynews.com/news/7252008/amy-adams-engaged-acting-class-sweetie.htm
Here's a story about Amy Adams getting engaged. Not happy ending, but a happy beginning.
Amy Adams was in the movie Enchanted. I really enjoyed that movie.
Amy Adams as Giselle was so funny. As I spoke about in my last post, I enjoy when people can laugh at themselves. I provide myself with lot of material. Enchanted is all about Disney laughing at themselves in a way.
I also enjoyed Enchanted because I know someone just like Giselle. Everyone needs someone like that in their life. My friend is optimistic and idealistic, which is an interesting combination. Or at least I don't know anyone who is as idealistic as my friend. She truly believes she can change the world. I have to admire that. I stopped being idealistic when I had to put myself through college. Divesting of South Africa doesn't seem so important when you have to get to work so you can pay the rent.
So it is always refreshing to hear my friends take on things And she really wants to change her world.
I do toast her, knowing full well I'm just happy trucking along in my own life and doing what little I can do. I've never strived to change the world. Oh maybe way back in junior high I was idealistic, but I can't remember.
So because Amy Adams was in a movie with a happy ending and she's now engaged, I wanted to link to the article about her.
Someone else thought it was happy news also.
cmr
I LOVE a happy ending.
http://www.happynews.com/news/7252008/amy-adams-engaged-acting-class-sweetie.htm
Here's a story about Amy Adams getting engaged. Not happy ending, but a happy beginning.
Amy Adams was in the movie Enchanted. I really enjoyed that movie.
Amy Adams as Giselle was so funny. As I spoke about in my last post, I enjoy when people can laugh at themselves. I provide myself with lot of material. Enchanted is all about Disney laughing at themselves in a way.
I also enjoyed Enchanted because I know someone just like Giselle. Everyone needs someone like that in their life. My friend is optimistic and idealistic, which is an interesting combination. Or at least I don't know anyone who is as idealistic as my friend. She truly believes she can change the world. I have to admire that. I stopped being idealistic when I had to put myself through college. Divesting of South Africa doesn't seem so important when you have to get to work so you can pay the rent.
So it is always refreshing to hear my friends take on things And she really wants to change her world.
I do toast her, knowing full well I'm just happy trucking along in my own life and doing what little I can do. I've never strived to change the world. Oh maybe way back in junior high I was idealistic, but I can't remember.
So because Amy Adams was in a movie with a happy ending and she's now engaged, I wanted to link to the article about her.
Someone else thought it was happy news also.
cmr
Friday, July 25, 2008
Friday Hunks: Vin Diesel
This is the first day of my Friday Hunks. I don't like that title. I'll give away a bottle of perfume and a bag of chocolates to the person who can come up with a better name than that.
So each Friday I will pick a hunk. Some will be known and some will not be famous. You'll see men in uniform because, well, I LOVE them.
And I'll talk about why I find them attractive.
Vin Diesel is my first hunk.
I only saw him in The Pacifier, but I think that speaks to him as a person. He can laugh at himself and that to me is such an important characteristic in a man, especially an attractive one.
I think it is important in life to be able to laugh at yourself and I would bet that is hard to do in such a world as Holly wood must be.
So lift a pint or wine or whatever you Friday imbibement is for Vin Diesel and his soulful eyes.
cmr
Monday, July 21, 2008
What Olympic event can you do?
http://www.happynews.com/news/782008/accomplishments-athletes-40.htm
I'm over 40 and some days I can't get my butt out the door to walk the dog. These people are setting records and doing amazing things.
Now 4o is not old, but your body does begin to slow down if you don't take care of it. It begins to go south. But these people have fought against that process.
This brings be to the Olympics.
What Olympic sport would you love to participate in?
Or if it isn't a sport what wacky thing should be?
I love water. I love to swim so I think I'd compete in swimming.
On the other hand if agonizing were a sport I'd be a gold medalist.
So what talent or interest do you have?
thanks,
cmr
I'm over 40 and some days I can't get my butt out the door to walk the dog. These people are setting records and doing amazing things.
Now 4o is not old, but your body does begin to slow down if you don't take care of it. It begins to go south. But these people have fought against that process.
This brings be to the Olympics.
What Olympic sport would you love to participate in?
Or if it isn't a sport what wacky thing should be?
I love water. I love to swim so I think I'd compete in swimming.
On the other hand if agonizing were a sport I'd be a gold medalist.
So what talent or interest do you have?
thanks,
cmr
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Changing things
I've decided I need to get serious about this blogging thing.
So in order to do that every Monday I will post about something I find on www.happynews.com
On Fridays I'll have a pic of a hot guy and I'll talk about him. Haven't figured out a name, but maybe I'll let you guy figure it out or at least help me.
I can run a contest. Give out a prize.
cmr
So in order to do that every Monday I will post about something I find on www.happynews.com
On Fridays I'll have a pic of a hot guy and I'll talk about him. Haven't figured out a name, but maybe I'll let you guy figure it out or at least help me.
I can run a contest. Give out a prize.
cmr
Sunday, July 13, 2008
One of those moments
It isn't often that you find out that you must be doing something right as a parent.
There are no real milestones your kids reach where you can say, "Yeah I did that."
Other than maybe potty training. Most things are a matter of development in their own time.
And if other people tell you your kids are polite then you must be doing something right.
My sons were on vacation last week with thier aunt and uncle. This aunt and uncle never tell them 'No." Of course they enjoy this aunt and uncle.
So there they were in North Carolina.
My sister related this story to me this weekend.
The whole bunch was in a barbecue restuarant. My 10 YO was ordering. When the waitress asked what he wanted to drink he looked at her and told her that he and his brother had had a lot of sugar that day so they should have milk.
My sister said the waitress was speechless for a moment. The restaurant didn't have milk, but someone went across the street to the supermarket to buy it.
Just because my 10 YO knew he needed to have milk.
It warms my heart.
cmr
There are no real milestones your kids reach where you can say, "Yeah I did that."
Other than maybe potty training. Most things are a matter of development in their own time.
And if other people tell you your kids are polite then you must be doing something right.
My sons were on vacation last week with thier aunt and uncle. This aunt and uncle never tell them 'No." Of course they enjoy this aunt and uncle.
So there they were in North Carolina.
My sister related this story to me this weekend.
The whole bunch was in a barbecue restuarant. My 10 YO was ordering. When the waitress asked what he wanted to drink he looked at her and told her that he and his brother had had a lot of sugar that day so they should have milk.
My sister said the waitress was speechless for a moment. The restaurant didn't have milk, but someone went across the street to the supermarket to buy it.
Just because my 10 YO knew he needed to have milk.
It warms my heart.
cmr
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
New blog post
Over at Inspired Author I've posted a new blog about my upcoming vacation.
Go to: http://inspiredauthor.com/v3/blogs/chrisredding/3-days-vacation
check it out.
cmr
Go to: http://inspiredauthor.com/v3/blogs/chrisredding/3-days-vacation
check it out.
cmr
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