Alone in the Woods, part 3

I sat down on a tree stump and waited.

And waited.

I recited the alphabet, counted up to a hundred and tried spelling my name backwards a few times. My friends hadn't come back for me. The sun was getting closer to the horizon line and I did not want to be out here alone in the dark.

I had two choices. I could go back to the cave and sleep there until morning or I could try to walk back to town.

Both held little appeal. Janice was the girl scout, not me. I didn't even want to go on this stupid camping trip. I hated the outdoors! I longed for my clean bedroom, with my pink canopy bed and princess telephone. I wanted to paint my toenails, while watching The Tonight Show. Slumber parties beat camping trips any day of the week.

Deciding there was no way I'd make it back to town before nightfall I headed back to the cave.

Alone in the Woods, part 2

How could my friends just up and leave me like that? I walked down the hill back to our campsite. When I reached the clearing it was empty. It was as if we had never been there at all. Even my own belongings were gone!

"Not funny, gang!" I yelled. If those jerk-offs thought I would be going camping with them ever again they had another thought coming.

I checked my watch again. The time read 1:15 pm, the same as when I had checked several minutes ago. I lifted my wrist to my ear. Silence. "Dangit!" I thought I had wound it before we left! I turned the fob until it wouldn't go any further. The second hand started running again, but I had no inkling what time it really was. By the position of the sun in the sky, I would guess it had to be close to dinnertime.

And I had no food or water. Or shelter.

My friends were going to be back any second. I was sure of it. Then we would all have a laugh.

Ha ha, very funny.

Alone in the Woods, part 1

I stumbled outside and pain shot through my head, bringing me to my knees. I had to shut my eyes against the brightness of the sun's rays. How long had it been since I had seen daylight? It seemed like I had been wandering around in that cave for days. I squinted and checked my watch. Two hours? That couldn't be right!

I glanced around. Where were my friends? "Hello!" I called out, getting no reply but an echo of my own voice. I was alone.

-

This story started out as merely a description of my headache. Interesting how one thing leads to another.

Star Wars is Back!

We just got home from seeing the new Star Wars movie, The Force Awakens. I give it two thumbs up! I am a lifelong Star Wars fan, so I was going in with a critical eye.

When we first sat down in the theater, the guy next to me said this was his third time back, so that was a good sign.

I did keep the negative reviews in mind. Some said that there were too many scenes that blatantly copied the first film. I did see some familiar elements, but I don't think they copied the scenes. Dialogue was used again because there are certain lines that always have to be in every Star Wars movie, such as "I have a bad feeling about this.". That didn't bother me at all.

I had read all the spoilers. Sorry, but I've always been a spoiler junkie. I don't like surprises. I'm very happy to know the ending of a movie first, then watch the character journey to that end. I knew what the big climactic scene was going to be and I was ready for it.

SPOILER ALERT: Someone dies. (You're shocked, I know.)

Honestly, I was more upset when Luke lost his hand in The Empire Strikes Back. I won't really miss the character and it was good drama, pivotal to the story. I look forward to the aftermath in the next film.

One thing I was pretty upset with (mini spoiler alert) was the fact that Luke Skywalker was not in the film! Okay, we do get to see him in the last moment of the film, but that was not enough for me. I love Luke Skywalker, always have. I wanted this movie to be about him training the new generation of Jedi warriors. I think we will get that in the next film, though.

All in all, I think J. J. Abrams was the perfect choice to direct this new trilogy. He's a fan and it shows.

Living Clouds

I pause from my work and look up out the window. The sun shines through the white puffy clouds that dot the blue sky, making them glow from within.

I notice them changing shape. It's fascinating how bits of the same substance can break off and become living beings. There are swirls and brush strokes on one side, but on the other are what appears to be animals.

A hippo opens his mouth wide, probably trying to intimidate another animal.

Elephants march along in parade formation, each one getting smaller down the line.
A dragon swoops down to obliterate everything in its path.

Then it all dissipates until the next time I look up.

Reopening The X-Files

I had heard that my favorite TV show of the 1990s is being resurrected next year. My daughter was excited to see it because I had shown her some of the old episodes. But I told her, "You can't watch the new one without catching up on the original series!"

Seriously, there is so much that went on over the 9 seasons of one of the greatest TV dramas ever, I cannot imagine new viewers getting into it without the backstory. Maybe the show will touch on it, show clips, have flashbacks, whatever. I wanted my daughter to see it firsthand and really appreciate the characters and their journey. Thankfully Netflix has all the episodes. We have been binge watching for weeks and are only on season 3.

In order to get through it faster, I have been telling my daughter which episodes are integral to the ongoing story: anything that mentions UFOs, aliens or government conspiracy. Of course we've also had to watch some of the episodes that I remembered being really cool or scary, like the one with the killer cockroaches! I'm also looking forward to the haunted house, where Scully and Mulder found their own corpses buried under the floor. Eeek!

The truth will be out there again in January, and I can't wait!

Happy Holidays 2015

Sorry I didn't post anything yesterday. I was busy all day and night, just like today.
I will be back to my regular posting tomorrow.

Editing and Editing Again

I have been trying to format my story all night. It's almost midnight and I am falling asleep. Of course, as I'm going through the text I am able to edit my story. It's a blessing and a curse. I am finding things to add and change, thinking "Thank GOD I caught that and took it out!". Unfortunately every time I read what I've written I want to change something else. When does one just stop editing and let it go?

I have never tried to convert a Word file to e-book before and it's been an agonizing process. Hopefully I will get it uploaded tomorrow because I need to go to sleep.

Creating Book Covers

Last night I was doing research on book covers. I was finding sites that sold images and thought about creating my own. I could have done it, but it turns out it's a much better deal to buy one from a cover artist.

I've been spending a lot of time on kboards, which is a site for kindle fans. There are many authors on the site who offer advice to newbies like me. I found a thread about book covers and found several artists. I compared their prices and decided to start with Ebook Indie Covers. Artist Melody Simmons can do any style of cover. She does custom work, too, but I was in a hurry to publish a short Christmas story and she happened to have the perfect cover for an amazing deal. I would have definitely spent more in resources and time trying to create my own. I didn't need the headache.

And I got my cover this morning! How's that for a Christmas miracle? Thank you, Melody!

Now i'm off to figure out how to convert my word document.

Tripping Cat

Oh, man. I think Uncle Barry put something in my catnip. I guess he finally got even for the hairball incident.

I feel dizzy. Whoa. Time is bending. It's folding in on itself. I can see the future and the past at the same time.

I am everywhere at once!

I am the universe!

I love Uncle Barry.

*Photo credit to Paul Meyers

Stop Stealing Music

This is not really a movie review, but I had to talk about the subject matter.

Today we watched a documentary about Jared Leto's band Thirty Seconds to Mars. What they had set out to create was a lighthearted film about the making of their second album, but it soon became a horror story when the band found out they were being sued by their record label, EMI.

It was a fascinating film. It turned out that the band had been given a bad deal of a contract that had basically earned them no money from their record sales or concerts and left them nearly $2 million in debt to the record label. When the band tried to end their contract, citing a rule about contracts not being binding after 7 years, the record label told them that rule didn't apply in this case and sued them for $30 million.

The main thing I learned is that record companies take everything and then add on hidden fees, which they can lie about, including losses due to illegal downloads, which aren't even the band's fault!

A comment is made in the film about how much time and money gets poured into creating a song, which is then sold on iTunes for less than the cost of a cup of coffee, yet people still steal it, rather than pay the band for their hard work.

At the end of the film Jared Leto asks of his massive concert audience "Who has our new album?" The crowd screams. "Who downloaded it for free off the internet?" The same crowd screams again. It sounded like nobody paid for it. This band has yet to make any money off their music. Very sad.

Always pay for your music. It doesn't cost much and you will help the artist t keep making art.



-

I want to add a comment about "mix tapes". I have a completely different view of those. When people share a mix of songs with friends they are actually doing free promotion for the artists. Those people receiving the mix may have never discovered the artists on their own. It creates the possibility for new listeners to go out and buy the artist's back catalog. But that is just my opinion. I have never illegally downloaded a song and I never will, but I have discovered many new favorites thanks to "mix tapes".

Cat Pooped

I am completely exhausted.

It's Christmas Eve and the entire family showed up. Aunt Mary's twin girls have been chasing me all day, trying to tie ribbons on my tail. I'm a boy! (Well, sort of.) Let me have some dignity!

Uncle Barry drank too much eggnog and puked in my litter box. If Mom and Dad think I'm gonna scrape up that mess, they better think again. That's disgusting! I pooped in the dog bowl. Scruffy will never notice, believe me. Now I'm working up a nice hairball for Uncle Barry. He'll be taking his boots off any minute. He always does at this time of night.

Aunt Dolly's little boy keeps screaming, "KITTY!" and trying to pick me up by the scruff of my neck. Hey, kid, I'm not a kitten anymore! I should just give him a swipe of my claws, but he is sort of cute for a human. I'll just put up with it until he stops amusing me.

Soon the family will gather around the tree to open presents. I will be heading to my favorite pillow bed so I can just spread myself out like a spilled bag of kibble.

Thank god Christmas only comes once a year.


*photo by Paul Myers

Record Party

Tonight we went to a record party at our friends' house. A bunch of us got together, brought boxes of records and a couple of turntables. Each of us took turns picking a record to play. We drank wine, ate food, and sang at the top of our lungs.

My pick of the night was The Monkees Greatest Hits. I had fun belting out She with Mickey Dolenz. I was surprised others in the room knew all the words, too.

I just remembered someone saying they were going to play The Partridge Family for me. I don't think they ever did. I would've crooned along with David Cassidy on I Think I Love You.

It was a lot of fun taking a trip down memory lane with all our old records. We plan to make this an annual event.

Do you like records?

Can't Balance My Checkbook

I have had a checking account since I was a teenager. I even worked in accounting years ago. I've always been pretty good at math.

Why can't I balance my checkbook?!?

I never used to have this problem. Each month I would carefully go over my statements, comparing each transaction. If there was a discrepancy I would make a notation and go back through my checkbook to see what was missing.

For some unknown reason, over the last several years, there has been an offset that I cannot figure out. Not only that, it seems to have gotten bigger.

I'm not stupid. I check and re-check my accounting and it always comes up different than the bank statement.

What the heck! Is there a ghost in my account? Is my computer calculator glitching out? Do I keep doing the same mistake over and over so I don't notice it? I give up. I have decided to just leave it alone and only go by my paper register, rather than the online one.

I know, you're probably shaking your head right now. You're screaming, "Holly, are you crazy! Get this straightened out!"

Well, I would if it bothered me too much. You see, the discrepancy is POSITIVE. For years my account has been growing as if there was a secret interest being added that the bank is not showing. It's not an interest account.

So long as the account is not showing I have less than what I do, I'm good. I just wish I could figure out how this keeps happening.

Until then I will continue to go by the balance in my check register and not what the bank claims I have.

My Daughter Grew Up!

It just occured to me that my daughter is turning 15 in a few weeks.

What?!? When did that happen?

She grew up when I wasn't looking! Actually, she's always been very mature for her age. That probably comes from being an only child and having only her parents to talk to every day.

She's great with kids her own age, too. We had her socialized very early on, knowing she would be an only child. I did not want her to turn out like me, someone who hid in the back of a room with a book.

I still do that.

Pirate Fantasy, part 11 (The End)

Carina stared at the moon, wondering if she had hurt Edward's feelings. She had been a bit ungrateful. She looked up at him, suddenly captured by his eyes. "I didn't say that...exactly." She cleared her throat. "I said we might not--" He interrupted her with his finger to her lips.

"What if we do? Could you be happy married to a merchant?" He stroked his finger softly down her cheek.

His touch made her skin tingle. It was a most pleasant feeling. What had he asked her? Oh, yes. Could she be happy married to this kind brave handsome man. There were much worse fates in life, such as being stuck in a tower on an island. So what if she wasn't going to be a lady pirate sailing the seven seas, robbing from the greedy and giving to the needy? She gave him an impish grin. "Well, you're no Robin Hood, but I suppose you'll do."

He slowly pulled her closer. "Perhaps we should get to know each other better." He leaned down and touched his lips to hers and she once again forgot about everything else. All that existed was the feel of his mouth on hers and the warmth of his embrace.

--

Epilogue

When the group had arrived in the port of London weeks later, after a few trading expeditions, Carina was awed by the great ships, some twice as large as her husband's. The air smelled of fish and rot, but she didn't care. She was captivated by all the activity, people arriving and departing, cargo being loaded and unloaded, shouts and laughter, parents and children.

She and Edward had gotten close on their voyage home. They had most definitely suited. They had suited quite well every night and morning for the past several days. She enjoyed married life very much.

Upon arriving in their townhouse, one they would all share, a special courier had been waiting. He told the men their mission had been a success, but that Chester Hopewell had been shot when trying to escape. Her "father" was dead. None of them had felt any remorse.

John had grown stronger each day, both physically and mentally, thanks to her mother's care. Apparently most of his affliction had been caused by grief. He had never gotten over losing Helene. When he lost his arm, he felt he had nothing left to live for. Now he did. Her parents had gotten married the moment they could find a willing minister.

Edward was more than a merchant. He sailed quite often on missions for the King, sometimes taking Carina with him. Thanks to her vivacious personality, she had become one of His Majesty's most valued spies, easily gaining information from ladies at society meetings.

Her life had become the grandest of adventures.

The End

Hail Yeah!

It hailed for a few seconds yesterday.

I sat alone in my office, typing away at my laptop. I had the window blinds open to let in light without wasting electricity. The sky started growing darker and I heard the gentle patter of rain on the window. Within seconds the water was beating harder against the glass, getting louder and louder. Then it sounded like rocks were being poured on the roof. My husband yelled out from the next room, "It's hailing!" Before I could jump up to watch the show he called out, "Oh, it stopped already!" Too bad.

I love watching hail come down. It's the closest thing we get to snow in this area. I just wouldn't want to be outside when it was happening. Ouch!

Plagiarism Sucks

I read an article today about the overabundance of plagiarized stories on Amazon. These are books by self published authors, something I plan to be. An author, not a plagiarizer.

I was shocked. People were basically stealing short stories from message boards and simply putting their own names on them. Who does that? Jerks!

Thankfully some people discovered this was happening and reported the culprits.

This is exactly why I will not be publishing full stories as anything but a book. Sure, I will keep posting short stories here on my blog, but they are just writing exercises done in the spur of the moment, not in depth novels.

Pirate Fantasy, part 10

Carina sulked. She should be happy, she knew, but somehow the thought of being married to a pirate had excited her. Now she was married to a merchant? At least she was free of her "father".  It was a pity that her true father had been kept from her, a man who would have loved her, rather than seen her as a burden.

She watched her mother interact with John Lafitte and smiled. It was as if they were young sweethearts, both of them attentive to each other. Then she looked over at her new husband. She took a bite of delicate fish while she studied him. He was actually a fine looking man with his light brown hair and kind grey eyes. He smiled quite often, which was a pleasant change from the dreariness that had surrounded her at home.

"You have a beautiful smile," Edward commented.

"Thank you." She reached for another bite, but noticed she had finished her food.

"Would you stroll about the deck with me?" He stood and held out his hand.

She took it and followed him outside. It was a beautiful evening. The moon was bright and there were more stars than she had ever seen.

"Evenin', Eddie."

"Cookie, allow me to present Carina Lafitte, my wife."

"A right pleasure it is, Missus."

"Thank you. I'm pleased to make your acquaintance. Cookie? Did you happen make that magnificent feast we had tonight?"

The older man swelled with pride. "I did indeed, ma'am."

"It was the most delicious meal I have ever eaten. Thank you." She impulsively kissed his cheek.

"Aw, now, I'm just doing my job."

"And you do it so well," Edward replied, narrowing his eyes in mock jealousy as he steered his wife away from his friend.. "Have a good evening."

"You, too," Cookie said with a wink.

The newlyweds walked over to the railing. "So...you fear we will not suit?" Edward asked.

Pirate Fantasy Haiku

This poem was inspired by the pirate fantasy my heroine has.

stormy seas beckon
leading us to distant lands
adventure is nigh

Pirate Fantasy, part 9

Edward watched as Captain Lafitte stared at Carina and she stared back at him. A sparkle returned to the old man's eyes, something that had been lost for years.

"My daughter?" John touched her cheek. "I never even suspected."

Helene leaned against him with tears in her eyes. "I thought you had changed your mind about me, or that something had happened to your ship when you never returned."

"But I did--" he began.

"I know. My father told me years later on his death bed. He wanted forgiveness for giving me to Chester Hopewell. He saw how unhappy I was in my marriage and felt guilty. He honestly thought he was giving me a better life, but I would have been happier had we sailed away on your ship and never returned." She buried her face in his side and started to cry. "We've lost so much time."

"We are together now, my love. Nothing else matters." He held her tight. "For me it's as if no time has passed. I still love you as much I did then. I could never love another. I have been married to the sea."

Carina smiled through her own tears. "I am so happy to know my father was not that cruel man who cared only for money."

Edward took her hand. "Your true father is a good man. He took me in when I was a young boy living on the streets. He gave me a job and taught me how to take pride in my work. And now I am a successful merchant."

"A merchant? So you're not even a sailor? I thought I would at least get to travel." Carina pouted.

Edward laughed. "Not to worry, my dear. I do sail occasionally. John and I do some trading in other countries when the weather permits. But our main venture is a string of shops we own together."

"We are quite wealthy," John added with a wink.

The group sat down to dine on a seafood feast. Carina ate with abandon, explaining how she had dreamed of such delicacies for years.

"There is something you should be made aware of," Edward announced grimly. "Hopewell was behind the attacks on several trading ships, including His Majesty's own vessels."

"That is how I lost my arm," John whispered.

Helene touched his hand. "You are still just as handsome as ever, with or without that arm."

He brought her hand to his lips. "You honor me, my lady."

Edward continued. "There has been an ongoing investigation these past few years. That was the reason we were on the island."

"You are agents of the King, too?" Carina gasped. "Is there no end to your accomplishments?"

"It appears Hopewell made the right choice of husband after all, my daughter." Helene laughed. "Not that it was his intention."

"Even if it hadn't gone as planned, we would have found another way to save you."

"So why did you marry me? You could have had your crew simply hold a gun to my father, er, Hopewell, while we made our escape."

Edward blushed. "I suppose I could have done it that way, but the simple truth is... I wanted you."

Carina shook her head. "You didn't even know me!"

"I saw you from afar as we were entering the bay. There was something about you that drew me in. Maybe it was love at first sight."

Carina shrugged. "We shall see. Perhaps we won't be able to stand each other by the time we return to your home, wherever that may be."

"London."

"Of course. You are agents of the crown. Silly me. How exciting." Carina did not look excited at all.

Writing With Partners

I used to write with a partner years ago and it was an amazing experience! We both fueled each other, pushing us to write more, better, faster. We bounced ideas off each other and developed several projects together.

I miss that.

I need to find some writing groups and make some new connections.

Pirate Fantasy, part 8

Edward took a deep breath before knocking on his bride's door. The moment it opened he was momentarily speechless. Carina had changed into a sky blue gown that matched her eyes and he found himself drowning in them. "Ahem. Good evening, my lady."

"Sir?" She looked at him in confusion.

He smiled, realizing she might not recognize him without his disguise. "Forgive my earlier ruse and allow me to officially introduce myself. I am Edward Lafitte...your husband."

Her eyes went wide. "You are not a pirate?"

"Sorry. You seem disappointed." He held out his hand.

She took it and smiled shyly. "No, not at all. Well, maybe just a bit. I was hoping for a grand adventure."

"Speak for yourself, daughter."

Edward looked over at the maid in surprise. "Mrs. Hopewell?"

"Now I must beg your forgiveness," Carina clutched his hand between her own. "My father was a cruel man. I wanted my mother away from him. It was my idea to dress her like this."

"Oh, not to worry, my dear. She is most welcome. In fact she should join us for supper with the captain."

"Thank you, sir," Mrs. Hopewell replied.

"The captain? I thought you were the captain."

"Well, I am, though not officially. The captain is ill, so I have been running the ship in his stead."

Mrs. Hopewell removed her cap and apron and the three went to dinner.

Edward introduced his new bride. "Carina, may I introduce my captain and adopted father, John Lafitte."

Captain Lafitte stood and bowed, holding out his good hand. "A pleasure, my dear girl. Beautiful name. It was my mother's name." He squinted at her and looked sad for a moment. "You remind me of  someone I used to know. I loved her so." He looked down at the floor.

"John?" Mrs. Hopewell stepped forward.

Captain Lafitte looked up at the older woman. He shook his head. "It cannot be," he gasped. "Helene?" He held out his good arm.

She nodded and ran to him. "Oh, John! I tried not to let myself hope, but when I heard the name Lafitte I did wonder." She touched his cheek. "When my daughter came up with the plan to sneak me aboard, I jumped at the chance. At the very least it would take me away from my horrid husband."

"Yes, you married another. You didn't want me."

"I did! I did want you! My father kept us apart! All I wanted was you!"

"Why did you marry Hopewell?"

"Because of me." Carina whispered with tears in her eyes. She leaned back against Edward for support. He held her to him and stroked her arms gently, watching the exchange with fascination. It was clear to him what was going on. His captain had been telling the truth about his damsel in distress all along.

"John, I was forced to marry Hopewell. After my father sent you away I confessed to him that I was with child. Your child." She took his hand and placed it in Carina's. "Meet your daughter."

Getting Into The Holiday Spirit

Tonight we put up the Christmas tree, a fake one we've had for years. It looks pretty real, though. We like to decorate it with pop culture icons like Superman, Mickey Mouse and Darth Vader.

While my husband and daughter started on the tree, I was in the kitchen making one of the few things I haven't screwed up yet: kind bar candy squares. They are very simple and sort of healthy, made with almonds, dried cranberries, coconut, chocolate chips and rice syrup. They are the treats I am bringing to the office holiday party this week. As I was putting them into boxes to store in the fridge I worried that there wouldn't be enough. Well, at least everyone will be able to eat one, maybe two.

After we finished with the tree we all sat down and watched Elf. It's my favorite Christmas movie. I've already quoted Buddy the Elf in this blog, but I'm going to do it again.

The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.

Go ahead! Sing like there's nobody watching... or listening.

Movie Review: Friends with Kids

We just watched Friends with Kids, starring Adam Scott, Jennifer Westfeldt, Maya Rudolf, Chris O'Dowd, Kristin Wiig and John Hamm. It was like a Bridesmaids reunion! It was full of witty conversations and sex jokes, but at the heart of it was a serious drama.

The story is about a group of friends from college who grow up together and start families. Two of the friends are not involved, but very close. They see their other friends having kids along with relationship problems and decide it must be because the romance was ruined by the kids. These two friends want to have children, but don't want to see it ruin their possible romances. Since they haven't found their true loves yet, they decide to have a kid. They can share responsibilities and search for love, since the hard part is out of the way. Their friends all think they're insane. Having a kid changes everything. They find that out the hard way.

My 14 year old daughter, my husband and I had a great discussion over this story. Once you are a family unit and find your groove do you really want to change things? What if the other partner finds love and you don't? What if one friend falls in love with the other friend? Can you trust those feelings? Or is it just the convenience of the family unit?

I liked the movie, but the ending left me hanging. I was hoping for a bonus scene.

Pirate Fantasy, part 7

Edward brought three men with him to meet with Hopewell one last time. The older man came to greet him as soon as he entered the villa.

"Ah, there you are, Lafitte! Thank you for agreeing to have the ceremony so quickly. You'll understand if I don't let my daughter leave here without such protection."

"Absolutement, Monsieur Hopewell. I, too, am eager to take my bride away wis me." More than the old man realized.

They adjourned down a long corridor to a small chapel. His bride was already waiting there with her mother by her side. She was stunning, dressed in a gown of white satin with tiny flowers in her hair. For a moment he forgot how to breathe. At her wide eyed stare he remembered who he was supposed to be. He stepped up to her and bowed gracefully. "Mademoiselle, it ees an honor to have one so lovely as you for my wife. I assure you will have zee best of everysing."

Carina curtsied. "Thank you, Monsieur. You honor me, as well." She stared at the floor. It was too bad. He longed to gaze into her eyes.

The minister joined their hands together and began the ceremony. An hour later Edward's men were loading the last trunk onto his ship. He helped his wife step aboard. "Welcome to your new home, my love."

Carina stopped and glanced at his face. "I'm sorry. Did you just lose your accent, sir?"

"All will be explained shortly. First, let me show you and your maid to your rooms." He led the two women downstairs and opened a door to a large suite. "This is my room, but consider it yours now." She blushed at his words. "Do not fret. I promise not to enter this room without your permission." He saw her visibly relax. "I will let your maid help you settle in, before I show her to her cabin." He left them alone.

Carina grabbed the other woman's arms. "We did it!"

Mrs. Hopewell looked up at her from beneath the large ruffle of her mobcap. "I find it hard to believe no one recognized me."

"Why would anyone suspect you would be disguised as a maid?"

"I warn you, I have no such skills whatsoever." Her mother smiled.

Carina laughed. "I'm sure we'll be able to take care of ourselves."

Edward Lafitte gave a farewell salute to the island as they sailed away. Then he went below to visit his captain. "Sir, we are away. Our contacts should be raiding the villa even now."

"Good. Good. I'm sure they'll find plenty of damning evidence of Hopewell's betrayal to the Crown."

Edward nodded. "I have a wife!" He sighed happily.

"Congratulations, my boy. Is she pretty?"

"She is a goddess."

"Then what are you doing here? It's your wedding night!"

"Sir, we've only just met. I would never force my attentions on her."

"Oh. You married a woman you only just met? How does that happen?"

"We rescued her, remember?"

"Right! Did I ever tell you I tried to rescue a damsel in distress?"

"Yes, sir. You did at that. What happened?"

"I wanted to marry the girl, but her father forbid it. I knew she loved me, so I vowed I would steal her away. I plotted and planned for weeks, but when I returned with my crew I discovered she was to marry another. Women can be so fickle." He stared at the wall, telling Edward he was done talking.

Too Much Sugar

Just got home from another birthday celebration.

Too much sugar.

Rockin' Birthday!

My husband gave me a very special birthday celebration today! He took me and our daughter to a fancy dinner and then the local stadium to see Trans-Siberian Orchestra's special Christmas show.

If you're not familiar with this band, they are basically a rock opera, complete with strings, wailing guitars, powerful vocalists, a video extravaganza, flames and fireworks.

At one point this giant pyramid covered in video screens opened up and started shooting flames into the air. It was right next to us and it was HOT.

A good time was had by all.

Here is a commercial for the tour. If you enjoy rock operas, this is a treat!

Pen Names

I have been researching pen names this week.

There are good reasons for using a pen name. Some people want to protect their real identity from crazy fans. Others might want to protect their families from embarrassment.

I don't use one for this blog, nor will I for my mainstream and young adult novels. But there are other subjects I may write about that I don't want people to associate with these family friendly books.

I had the perfect "nom de plume". I had used it with a writing partner in the past. Good thing I never purchased the domain name. I was about to when I decided to do another name search. Sadly, it turns out there was already a writer with the same name! What are the odds?

Although I found some good suggestions (use name generators, list keywords in your genre, search family tree, etc.), in the end I simply mixed up a couple names of my favorite romance novel characters. Luckily the name, and all its variations did not exist. I was shocked, but happy. I am going to buy the domain name and just sit with it for a bit to make sure I love it.

I will not tell you what that name is. That might change one day. For now I will maintain a little mystery.

Pirate Fantasy, part 6

Edward sat down by his captain. "It's done, sir. Hopewell is drawing up the contracts right now. By this time tomorrow we should be on our way from here."

"You're a good lad. A good lad. Did I ever tell you I also once tried to rescue a damsel in distress?"

"No, sir." Edward wondered if the man was delirious.

"She was so beautiful, hair of gold and eyes of blue. She lived on an island."

"Sir, I think you are confusing things."

"Oh. Maybe, I am." He looked sad. "I tend to forget things lately."

"It's all right. I will keep you informed." He got up to leave.

"Keep her safe, my boy."

Edward looked back, but the old man was asleep.


Carina paced her room. Francesca had just brought news of her future husband. He was a pirate! She hoped he was a good man. She had never heard of a kind pirate, but she was sure there had to be some. He could be like Robin Hood, taking from the wealthy and giving to the poor.

She walked to the window and stared out at the water, hoping to catch a glimpse of his ship, but there was nothing there. It was probably on the other side of the island. She sighed and looked over at her lunch of cold pheasant and fruit. She hoped her husband would feed her lobster.

She was startled when her mother burst into the room. She rushed over and took hold of her hand. "Daughter, I must throw myself on your mercy. Your father is punishing you for my past indiscretion."

Carina was shocked. She had never seen her mother as anything less than composed. "Whatever do you mean?"

"I had sworn never to reveal my secret, which is the reasonI haven't been attentive to you these last few years. I love you, my daughter, but it is just so painful to see you each day and be reminded of love lost."

"What are you saying? Do I remind you of your younger self so much?"

"You do, yes, but it's your father I see in you most of all, and it feels like my heart being torn from my chest whenever I see his beautiful eyes looking back at me." She smiled sadly.

"I never thought I favored my father much."

"Hopewell is not your father," she said in disgust. "My own father forced me to marry him when he found out I was with child."

Carina froze, her head starting to spin. "I'm a bastard?" She gripped the edge of the table for support.

"To the rest of the world you are legitimate. My father made sure of that."

"Why didn't you marry my real father? Was he already married?"

"No He was a captain on a merchant ship. He had regular business here with my father. We became friends, then sweethearts. I gave myself to him on his last night here and he promised to return and marry me. I believed him. I had loved him so very much. I never saw him again. He never even knew about you." Silent tears rolled down her mother's cheeks.

Carina's heart clenched as she listened to her mother's pain. She wiped away her tears and embraced her. "I'm so sorry. Do you think he perished in the sea?"

She shook her head. "I found out years later that he had returned just as he promised. A few weeks after our night together he asked my father for permission to wed me. But my father had loftier expectations for my future. My husband never forgave me for bearing another man's child."

She chuckled. "I think he was more upset that the man had been a common sailor, rather than a nobleman. And he blames you for us never being able to have more children. Now he has searched for the most despicable of husbands for you. He is practically crowing over the fact he's marrying you off to a sailor, and a disgusting one at that. I am so sorry."

"Mother, do not despair. I am ready to meet my fate and the new adventures that await me. Anything is better than being stuck in a tower for the rest of my days." She stared out at the vast blue. "The sea calls to me."

"Just like your father." She held her daughter tight. "I wish I could go with you."

Carina smiled to herself. "Maybe you can. I have an idea."

I Was Writing, I Swear!

I sat down and started writing chapter 6 of my pirate story, but my eyes started to close. Now I can barely keep them open. I apologize, but I will attempt to get up early and write chapter 6.

Ahoy, mateys!

Proofreading Help

How do self-publishers go about getting their short stories proofread? I know I could ask friends, but if it's something I don't necessarily want anyone to read until it's published, how can I trust a proofreader not to steal my work? It's a scary thing.

I'm pretty good at proofreading, but I can sometimes see words that aren't there just because I know what it's supposed to say.

Pirate Fantasy, part 5

The office was immense. It was more like a library, with books lining three of the four walls. Directly across from the entry was a set of large french doors that opened to a patio and garden. Throughout the room was plush furniture for conversation or lounging.

"If you are quite finished examining my office you may have a seat, Mr. Lafitte!" Old Hopewell bellowed.

Edward tilted his head, hoping to express he was not impressed, as he slowly took a seat across from the massive mahogany desk. In a practiced French accent he said, "Merci, Monsieur Hopewell. It ees an interesting little home you have here on ziss island."

"You think my home little?"

"Forgive me. My English iz not so good. I find it... quaint?" He fluttered his hands at the room. "My own estate is quite large and can accommodate two of you own. But zen I have many people who work for me and live on my property. I am a very powerful man looking for an equally powerful family in zee Americas wiss whom I may combine resources."

"What can you offer me in exchange for my daughter's hand?"

What a pig! He was selling his daughter off with no care for her feelings? He cleared his throat. "I have many trading ships. I am zee most powerful trader in all of Europe, and soon to be zee Americas. Zere is no one comes close to my connections and operations."

Hopewell grinned at him and nodded, looking him up and down. There was actually a twinkle in the old man's eyes. Edward tried not to shudder at the fact this man would give his daughter over to an obvious pirate.

"You'll do nicely."

A woman's gasp came from across the room. She had been half hiding in the shadows of a bookshelf. She stepped into the light. "You cannot be serious, Chester!"

"Do not speak against me, woman! You of all people should not be surprised by my choice." He glared over at her and she shrank back, staring at the floor.

Edward maintained his persona and flashed an arrogant smirk at the old man. "We must keep our women in zere places, yes!" He laughed loudly.

Chester Hopewell stood and extended his hand to seal the deal. "I will have a marriage contract drawn up immediately. We can have the ceremony at your earliest convenience."

"Zat would be most appreciated." Edward shook the disgusting man's hand before turning to go. He was in shock. What sort of man would give his daughter to a pirate? For all he knew she could be sold into slavery or used among the men on the ship. He was not about to let anything like that ever happen to his midnight angel. Once she was his he would protect her with his life. For she would soon be his wife in truth.

Pirate Fantasy, part 4

Chester Hopewell sat back in his gloriously plush desk chair and puffed away on his cigar. He eyed the man who hoped to marry his daughter. "Why should I let you wed her?"

Douglas Redding, Esquire came from new money in America. Something to do with railroads or shipping or something. He was the youngest son in that family, though, and most likely did not stand to inherit much at all. Businesses usually fell upon the eldest sons. He had a weak chin and a lisp.

"Thir, I can athure you your daughter would not want for anything. I will treat her like a queen!" He smiled proudly.

"Why the hell should I care what you can do for that chit? Tell me what you can do for ME!"

Douglass shrank under the older man's intense glare. "Well, I-I-I'm not thure what you mean, thir. My family is quite rethpectable, revered in fact. It thertainly would not hurt your reputathion should our families align."

"Get out, you ninny!" He nodded to his butler. "Send in the next candidate, Collins."

"Right away, Sir." He led Mr. Redding away and announced the next potential groom. "Mr. Jebediah Crabbich."

Mr. Hopewell squinted at the skinny, smarmy old man as he daintily seated himself across from his desk. "And tell me why I should let you marry my daughter."

The older man snickered and licked his lips. "I own several thousand acres of certain medicinal plants, if you take my meaning."

Hopewell sat up straighter and raised his eyebrows. "I think I do." He smiled.

Outside the office, Edward paced in the hallway. He was next. Thankfully, his informant on the island had met with him late last night when they docked in the cove. The man had mentioned the husband interviews and that Hopewell was seeking someone to align his business with. Edward had the perfect proposition, not that he had any intent of making good on it.

Upon hearing that the man apparently had no love for his daughter, Edward decided a disguise was in order. After all, the man surely would not want his daughter to have a happy marriage to a nice gentleman. That idea held more merit when he viewed the trail of men who had left with their tails between their legs. Each one was more hideous than the last.

The butler led out the next man and pointed to Edward. He reached up and adjusted his eye patch, stroked a hand over his facial hair, adjusted his sword and pistol and followed the servant into the lion's den.

Pirate Fantasy, part 3

Edward forgot how to breathe as he gazed upon the girl in the window. She had golden hair that hung to her waist, full pouting lips and big sad eyes. He wanted nothing more in this moment than to make them shine with joy. Why was she so unhappy? Could she be a prisoner? He hadn't been made aware of such happenings here. He knew this island well, including every access point to the entire fortress. If she was being held against her will he would make it his personal mission to rescue her.

"What you lookin' at?"

Edward barely heard Cookie, but spoke, still mesmerized. "An angel in white."

"Ya don't say? Might I take a gander at such a vision? I've ne'er seen an angel meself."

Reluctantly he passed his glass to his friend and pointed. "See that light in the distance there?"

"O'ho! She is indeed a beauty. So sad, though."

"I think she may be a prisoner."

"Or perhaps she's Hopewell's daughter. I'd be miserable too, were he my da."

Edward chuckled. "Either way, we need to get her out of there."

Cookie nodded. "I agree. Fire is about to erupt. We don't want the little lady caught in the crossfire. 'Sides, she might be mighty grateful, if ye catch me meaning."

"I do, indeed." Her gratitude would be most welcome, especially if she afforded him a thank you kiss. "I need to tell Captain."

"You do that," Cookie smiled knowingly as the boy walked away. He was the only other one on board who knew of the captain's illness, but had sworn loyalty to Edward. He knew the rest of the crew would do the same when they found out he had been their leader all this time.

Pirate Fantasy, part 2

Edward stared out at the waves, letting the lull of the water calm him. Being on the ocean was home to him. He had never felt like he belonged anywhere until he was taken aboard this ship. That was nearly ten years ago. He knew this ship like it was his own. Someday it would be.

"What ye be doin' out here, boyo?" Old Jim croaked. "Dreaming again?"

"Drinking again, Jim?"

"Always!" He laughed and tottered off.

Poor Jim. He hadn't been the same since his wife died last year. He had been out on a job when she passed. Fortunately their three sons were there taking care of her. Jim had provided for his family the best way he knew how, even if he had missed out on raising his children.

Edward knew he would never have a family of his own. He could never give up this life and he would not want to abandon his family. A ship was no place to raise children.

After one last gaze out at the waves he walked around the deck, inspecting rigging and making sure everyone was doing their jobs. He had come a long way since his thankless job as cabin boy.

"Evenin', Eddie!"

"Evenin' Cookie. Out for a smoke?"

"That and some fresh air, mate. It's hotter than Hades down below, especially in the kitchen."

"That it is. It's calm enough to sleep on deck tonight, if you prefer."

"I might indeed."

"And I just might join you." With a pat on his back from Cookie, Edward finished up his rounds, before heading down below to the Captain's quarters. He rapped quietly before stepping inside. He walked over to the bed and looked down at his mentor.

"Ah, Edward my boy, you're here."

"And where else would I be, Sir?"

"Oh, I don't know. Out looking for mermaids, perhaps? You're a fine looking lad. They would not be able to resist you." He laughed until he started wheezing.

Edward quickly helped him sit up. "Here now." He grabbed a mug off the table and made him drink.

"What would I have done without you these last few years? You are literally my right hand." He waved his stump of an arm in the air then let it drop to stare at the wall.

This strange behavior was happening with more frequency. Edward had secretly been making all decisions for years, ever since their ship had been bombed by an enemy of The Crown. The Captain had been severely injured and had never fully recovered. He made an appearance to the crew every now and then, but usually it was to tell them all that Edward was in charge when he wasn't around. That hadn't been a problem, as he was well liked by all. He just didn't want to make all the decisions alone. Sadly, his captain could no longer help him.

After seeing to his captain's comfort Edward went back to his favorite spot on deck, staring out at the waves. A point of light caught his eye and he glanced up. It looked like a window. He pulled out his spyglass.

Gazing out of that window was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen!

Pirate Fantasy

Carina stared out the window of her parents' island estate, at the vast expanse of dark blue. The sun had set nearly an hour ago, but under the moonlight she could make out the white tips of the chopping waves. How she longed to sail away from here. She didn't even care where she went. Anywhere was better than this prison.
She slapped her hand against the stone wall. No matter how much plaster was slathered over it, the imposing weight of what was beneath radiated through.

"Miss Hopewell, I have your dinner."

She turned to see Frannie or Fanny. Or was it Federica? It seemed like her mother hired a new lady's maid every other month. What had been the problem with Anna? Was it that she had been too nice? Carina still longed for her first maid, Beth. They had been close in age and she had sorely needed a friend when she had first come home from boarding school. She heaved out a sigh. There was no point dwelling on the past. It had been two years.

Now her life was this tower cell awaiting an arranged marriage.

"Thank you, um--"

"Francesca, Miss."

"Yes, thank you, Francesca." Carina sat down to dine on roast beef and asparagus in a rich cream sauce. One would suppose when one lived on an island there would be an abundance of seafood. Of course, since it was her favorite, her parents would never serve it. God forbid, they allow their daughter a modicum of pleasure. She chewed the beef slowly, while longing for branzino.

"Will there be anything else, Miss?"

"No, thank you. Good night." She watched her maid leave then set down her fork. She got up and went back to the window. She let the waves calm her worried mind.

Out in the distance, still out of sight, a small ship with black sails crept around the far side of the island.

Waves In My Head

I've been picturing rolling waves in my mind's eye. I think my next story will be about pirates.

I've always loved stories about pirates and old sailing ships, so long as the pirates are the heroes. I obviously don't like real life pirates. I don't like to read about serious pain and suffering. I want my heroes to triumph with the least amount of agony possible.

I love happy endings. Sure you need struggle and strife, but it doesn't have to be horrific. Well, that is unless you're writing horror.

Booming Bass Haiku

it pounds on my head
the booming of the music
that is not my own

--

This haiku was brought on by the intrusion of a neighbor's stereo while we were trying to watch a movie.

Are some people deliberately inconsiderate or just plain clueless?

Turn down your bass response. If you can hear it outside your house (or car) so can your neighbors. They are just too nice to say anything to you.

Writing for Comics

We had a nice visit with some old friends today. We got to talking about the comic book industry and how some companies care about their artists more than others. The one my husband works for doesn't seem to care anymore. They just want to make a quick buck and get into television.

Our friends suggested my husband start developing his own book and posting it as a web comic first. That was funny because it's the same advice Mick gives to his students. He never considered it for himself because he's so busy and doesn't think he would have time to do his own book. That's not really true, though. He gets bombarded with tons of work for two weeks, but usually gets little to no work for the next two weeks. I told him it was a great idea. As we were all discussing this a big lightbulb flashed over our heads. We all basically had the same idea for the topic!

So now, as a family, the Gray's are going to develop a comic book that we will give away for free on the web, until we pitch it to one of the comic book companies that care about new and innovative ideas.

I will keep you posted!

Movie Review: Mockingjay, Part 2

Yesterday I took my daughter to preview night of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2.

In a word it was AMAZING! It was so close to the book that I cannot complain much. The only problem I had was a lot of important moments went by too quickly, but when you're reading something it does get stretched out a bit with commentary. Then the ending I just had hoped would be embellished a bit. The book jumped to the epilogue too abruptly for me and so did the movie. It was still great. I just wanted more.

In this final chapter we follow Katniss and company into the Capitol on her quest to assassinate Hitler, er, President Snow. He knows they're coming and has booby trapped the entire city. With cameras rolling he intends for this to be the greatest Hunger Games ever.

The special effects worked seamlessly. There were jump scares throughout, making everyone scream and gasp. My daughter and I were clinging to each other at one point, knowing what was to come (since she's the one who made me read the books).

By the end of the film you don't know who is the real enemy and who is just trying to keep the peace for the greater good, no matter how screwed up their thinking might be. Well, if you read the books you know.

This story is quite a political statement on war. You may think your government is doing the right thing, but there are hidden agendas everywhere.

The theater was pretty packed, but everyone was respectful and vocal at the right times. We laughed and booed and cheered together.

The series has ended, so I guess you could say I am hungry no more.

Back Off

Today on my way to work I nearly had a heart attack. A man behind me kept stopping right on my bumper. I kept giving him hints by moving a few inches and stopping again and again, but every time he would pull up behind me as close as possible. I know I’m short and have a hard time seeing how close I am to other cars, but I couldn’t see his bumper, not to mention the entire hood of his car. I kept thinking that I would jump out of my car at the next light and lay into him for being such a moron, but I didn't.

I don’t know how most people learn to drive, but one of the most important lessons I ever learned was to always make sure I could see the back wheels of the car in front of me when stopped at a light. That prevents two things:  getting stuck behind the car if they break down -AND- rear-ending the car if someone hits you from behind (thus destroying the front of your own car)

Did this guy behind me never learn the rules of the road or was he just completely “asleep” at the wheel? That scared the crap out of me! I was still shaking when I sat down at my desk.

When you get behind the wheel of a car you are responsible for everyone else out on the road. Be awake and aware at all times. Keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you at all times. Remember the “three second rule”? Well, now it has been increased to four or more seconds when driving conditions are worse, according to the DMV.

Even if you don’t ever cause an accident, any bad driving habits can cause someone else serious emotional and psychological harm.

Be safe.

Click here to check out some important driving tips.

Writing in the Car

I have been searching all over for a writing notebook I had taken from my daughter's stash a few months ago (she is so over glittery cupcake designs) and I finally found it!

This notebook will be for the car. I will keep it with me at all times so I can write down any ideas that come to me as I look out the window or listen to the radio. Don't worry, I won't do it while I'm driving. My husband usually drives us when we're together, so I can sit and write my heart out.

Do you keep a notebook in your car?

I Needed to Smile

The last few days have left me depressed and angry.

Time to just chill...







You're welcome.

To Unfriend or Not Unfriend

The other day I posted about the terrorist attack in Paris. I don't usually post about such heavy stuff, but so many people were talking about it and it really got to me.

Sadly, I tend to zone out when I hear the words "terrorist" and "military" because I'm already so paranoid and upset to know these things are going on in our world and I don't want to hear about it, lest I become Agoraphobic completely (I already don't like to leave the house). I don't know why this Paris attack affected me so deeply. I've never been to Paris and I don't know anyone there. Maybe it's because I think of Paris as a hub of artists and I identify with that.

I share all my blog posts on Facebook because it's the best way to lead people to my blog. Right away a friend of mine attacked me with this meme.

I say attacked because that is exactly how I felt. It's like they were telling me who I could and could not grieve. I have asked this person to stop commenting on my posts because they say things in a very hurtful way.

It's like they were calling me a racist because I'm not posting about the atrocities that happen in other countries. I don't usually post things about other countries, period.

I'm sorry our government is also apparently a terrorist organization. I have complained about "the war", too.

I'm sorry I'm not voting for your perfect candidate. I don't think they stand a chance, so I would rather use my vote to prevent someone horrible from getting into office. That may change. Who knows?

I'm sorry, but I believe that no matter who becomes our next president, they won't be able to stop the military machine. There are too many powerful corporations out there with too many business interests overseas paying off too many people.

I'm sorry I'm not brave enough to be a vocal political activist like you.

All I can do is voice my opinion and hope that somebody with more skills can pick up the ball and run with it.

What I don't need is somebody telling me I'm wrong for feeling the way I feel. They are MY FEELINGS, not yours.

So now I wonder if I should just unfriend this person so they cannot comment on my posts anymore.

To unfriend or not unfriend, that is the question.

High Tide

We went to the beach today and the tide was higher than I'd ever seen it in my entire life. Maybe it had something to do with the storm that hit overnight.

As we trekked down the stairs to the walkway I noticed dark clouds in the distance. My friend assured me there would be no storm today, so I shrugged it off. When we got to the bottom I was shocked. What was normally a good sized beach was just a skinny strip of sand. The waves were coming in and spreading out almost all the way to the cliff.

We decided to go for a walk. After all, we did pay $10.00 for parking. I was getting nervous as the water kept getting closer. About halfway down to the next beach there was a lagoon cutting off our path. The ocean had cut right through the sand, leaving a three foot deep canyon. The few in our group who had removed their shoes tried to walk across the water where it was most shallow.

My family and I stood on the side and shook our heads. It was cold and we had left our shoes on. When the waves crashed and the water rushed in again, the lagoon started to fill like a rushing river! Our friends shrieked and ran back to us. Then we all went back to the car. It was still fun, even if we didn't get to go the entire length of the beach.

We all drove to Santa Cruz and had a nice lunch.

The photo above is my husband and me next to the lagoon. Crazy!

Why Paris? Why Anywhere?

My heart aches over the atrocities in Paris last night.

What affected me so deeply is that all the people who were targeted were simply out having fun on a Friday night, trying to relieve the stresses of the work week. Some were having a cup of coffee at an outside cafe, some were at a rock concert, some were at a sporting event, while some were just walking around taking in the ambiance of a beautiful historic city.

I read something about these extremists claiming Paris was a city of prostitutes and the obscene. That's not who they were targeting, though.

Since when is having a cup of coffee obscene? Is it prostitution to sell concert t-shirts? Are these terrorists offended by rock music? Do they hate tourists? Beauty? Art? Community? Love? All of the above?

These murderous groups are the obscene ones. They are prostituting their souls for their sick enjoyment of killing people, anywhere, anytime, for any reason.

I guess the one tiny bright spot in all of this is that what they are doing is rallying the entire world together.

Yin and Yang.

Starbucks is Evil

I'm not making a political statement or anything. I'm just saying Starbucks is The Devil. Every day I say I'm going to avoid that place and every day I find myself wanting to go there. On many days, I find myself going there.

Their coffee isn't even that good. I swear they must have heroin or something in it! I just can't stay away!

Or maybe it's that I love the style of their stores. They're all a little different, but arty and inviting. Their cups are adorable, They always have some great gift items (usually way too expensive, so I wait for the clearance sales).

They have a membership plan, ways to earn extra bonus points towards free coffee and food. I have gotten tons of free lunches out of them. Of course, their coffee is way overpriced, so I guess it averages out. Actually, I think coffee drinks cost pretty much the same everywhere these days.

To top it all off, they came out with an app that lets you order and pick up, usually within five minutes. So if I'm rushing to work in the morning I can place my order and pay with my membership card via the app, rush past the twenty people in line and grab my stuff, which is waiting for me at the pick up area.

Damn you, Starbucks, for making me so addicted to you!

If only Peet's had a points program. *sigh*

Gotta run. My cafe mocha is getting cold.

Dreaming in Movies

Do you ever wake up from a dream and think, "Whoa, that would totally make a great movie!"

I do that all the time. The problem is I usually start to forget the story within a few seconds and when I wake up I'm usually too tired to write anything down. I really should, though. I have my journal right next to my bed. I may not be writing films, but I could definitely add some of these scenes and characters to my stories.

This morning's dream included aliens taking over human bodies and infiltrating the religious right. I was the only one noticing that their human forms were being eaten away by alien features. I think this little dog was aware of it, but I woke up before I could see his reaction.

Hm, it sounds almost like a movie I saw in the 80s. It was called They Live. There was one guy who could see these creatures and he was on a mission to destroy them all. But they were everywhere, in all walks of life. I wonder if that's where the premise for Grimm came from.

Maybe my subconscious was remembering a radio show I heard a few weeks ago. My husband and I listen to a Coast to Coast AM, as well as The Art Bell Show, where they discuss alternative news and paranormal events.

A couple different people had called in to say they had weird experiences. One was a massage therapist and the other was a hair stylist. Each of them were with a client when they either saw their client morph or change into some weird alien being. One woman said it looked like a hologram coming out of the person. The other said their client looked as if the human form was a hologram losing its power, like the human features were a forcefield. Creepy, eh?

Many people believe that aliens are here on earth.

What do you believe?

Spinning

Round and round.

My head was getting dizzy. When would it stop? I had been sitting here waiting for what seemed like forever. I must have gone through this cycle at least three times.

My clothes still weren't dry! And I was running out of quarters.

Damn laundromat!

California Freezin'

I'm shivering!

Freezing rain hit California the last two days. We do need the water, but I'm a big baby when it comes to cold weather.

This meme today totally cracked me up. It was a bit chillier than 63 degrees, but still we are such wimps.

Now I know why people retire to Florida. I could never live there, though. They have ginormous bugs. I'd rather deal with the cold, thank you very much.

Frost warnings for tonight. Where's my Snuggie?

Take The First Step

I was so inspired the other day when I saw this photo.

It came from the Facebook page of an author I admire, Vicki Lewis Thompson. She writes contemporary romance novels that don't take themselves too seriously. They are fun and quirky, just like her! (You gotta love a woman whose favorite vacation is a trip to Disneyland.)

The image above is a page from Vicki's writing journal. This is how she starts her novels. She figures out the who, what, where, when and how in simple notes. It's not an organized word file or spreadsheet. It isn't a character study or research assignment. It's just jotting down a few ideas and building from there.

Starting a novel doesn't have to be an overwhelming ordeal.

So, no more excuses! All it takes is that first step (or second, or third). Write down those notes on a piece of paper or a cocktail napkin. Get those ideas out of your head and onto something tangible. BAM! You're suddenly writing that novel.

Thank you, Vicki, for the inspiration!

Outlander DVD Set 2

I got my Outlander DVD set of Season One, part 2 a couple months ago, but my husband had been too busy to watch anything. We finally popped the DVD in this week. Yay!

Tonight we watched one of my favorite episodes, titled The Devil's Mark. It contains the pivotal scene where Claire tells Jamie that she is from the future. This episode had so much going on: a witch trial, where witnesses were making stuff up just so Claire would be out of their lives, a revelation that Claire was not the only time traveler in town, Claire's return to the standing stones and her emotional decision over which husband to choose. Of course, we already knew who she was going to choose, otherwise the series would be over already.

For anyone who doesn't know what the heck I'm talking about, please refer to this old post.

So now we only have to wait five months or so until the show returns for the second season. Thankfully, I have a friend who has the Starz channel. This is one show I don't want to miss!

Bullying

I had lunch with a friend recently and we discussed the fact that I have a mental block that keeps me from succeeding at what I really want to do.

It turns out we had both been bullied when we were kids. She told me that sometimes we, as victims of bullies, grow up and continue to bully ourselves because a small part of us believes the things that were said to us. That was a jaw dropping moment for me because I could totally see that.

A part of me believes I don't have what it takes, that nobody is going to enjoy what I write and that I don't deserve success as a writer.

Screw that!

As I told my friend about the book series I had planned she could see how happy I was, the passion in my voice as I spoke. I was lit up from the inside. That is what you are supposed to do with your life. Find the thing that makes you most happy and turn it into a career.

I have to channel Stuart Smalley again and repeat his mantra: I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and doggone it, people like me!

To all the once-bullied out there, stop bullying  yourself! Move on. That period of your life is over and you are destined for greatness.