The official blog of Denise M. Baran-Unland, author. Discover her books for all ages at bryonyseries.com.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Blessings
So many of them in the past twenty-four hours, I won't even try to count them.
Only one has particular note for me.
A week ago, I gave away my last five dollars to someone that had more need of it than I. Shortly thereafter, a new friend unexpectedly treated me to lunch. We talked of God; we talked of gratitude. I shared the story.
She, in turn, blessed the recipient of my five dollars with a greater amount than I was able to give. The really cool part is that he doesn't know it yet. Oh, is he gonna be surprised!
"I seek the fruit that increases to your credit." Philippians 4:17
Only one has particular note for me.
A week ago, I gave away my last five dollars to someone that had more need of it than I. Shortly thereafter, a new friend unexpectedly treated me to lunch. We talked of God; we talked of gratitude. I shared the story.
She, in turn, blessed the recipient of my five dollars with a greater amount than I was able to give. The really cool part is that he doesn't know it yet. Oh, is he gonna be surprised!
"I seek the fruit that increases to your credit." Philippians 4:17
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
"Oliver!" Recap...Finally!!!
On September 8th, Christopher, Rebekah, Daniel, and me celebrated Timothy's birthday in a most unusual way. A few people chipped in to take him to see the 1968 musical Oliver! on the big screen and to meet three of its stars before the show: Mark Lester (Oliver), Shani Wallis (Nancy), and Ron Moody (Fagin).
And we didn't tell Timothy.
The fun began while Christopher stood outside smoking a cigarette with Timothy and Daniel keeping him company while Rebekah and I went inside to claim our reserved tickets. I saw a car pull up just a yard past them--a regular car, mind you, not a limo--and Ron Moody stepped out.
The boys, of course, were oblivious.
I rushed outside just in time to see Mark Lester help Ron up the curb, and I drew Timothy's attention to it. He grew excited at the coincidence, so I admitted that was the entire reason we were here. By then, Christopher and Daniel had turned around, but Mark and Ron had already entered the theater.
Because money was tight; because we had no working well and consequently spent much money on bottled water and laundromats; and because we were soon to be homeless, we decided to chip in evenly to buy just one poster with all three stars' photos on it, to the tune of fifty dollars (GROAN), and let Timothy be the one to keep it.
Then we waited patiently in line, until I got woozy and remembered I hadn't drunk much water that day (I take massive amounts of antihistamines and am prone to dehydration). It wouldn't do to pass out in line (not the way I prefer to attract attention), but the bar was nearby so Christopher bought me a three dollar water bottle, which I consumed in about three swallows.
For those of you that know Christopher, he had plenty to say about the cost, to the bartender and to anyone in line that couldn't avoid listening to it. If you don't know Christopher, I'll just skip to the next part.
Mark Lester was professionally polite, until I told him we were huge Melody fans, proving it by gesturing to Daniel and saying, "I like Daniel much more than I like geography."
He perked up at that point, said Melody was quite a good film and that he couldn't understand why it didn't do better at the box office. He chatted a bit more until I could feel the impatience of the line behind us. So we thanked him and moved on, but I couldn't help saying, "Please sir, I want some more...."
To which Mark pointed his finger at me with a grin and said, "Popcorn!"
Next stop was Shani Wallis. She was friendly polite and even more friendly after I introduced my children (She loved their names!) She stopped signing, disbelieving I was their mother.
Shani looked straight at me and asked, "How old are you?"
"Fifty-two," I replied.
She gaped, recovered, and then said, "How old do you think I am?"
"Fifty-two," I quickly answered.
Shani said, "I'm eighty."
Eighty! The woman is a complete knock out!
I blurted out, "I want to be you," and I meant it.
Shani kissed Christopher and chatted to the kids. I stepped back as a man approached me from the side. He introduced himself as her husband and manager, so I introduced myself as a freelance writer. Long story short, he asked if I'd write a story about Shani, and we traded phone numbers. And yes, I've been researching possible venues. Hoping!
Finally, we made it to Ron Moody. He had a hard time grasping that we really had come to the theater to celebrate Timothy's birthday. When he finally understood that HE was my son's twenty-third birthday present, he started singing Happy Birthday to him.
I couldn't grab my phone fast enough. So I interupted Ron and asked him to start over. He stopped in mid-note, really surprised at such a daring question. But he did start over, and my phone promptly stopped recording.
REALLY???
Christopher quickly took out his phone, and we recorded most of it. The movie was almost--and they key word is "almost"--anticlimatic. To see it again in such context was really amazing and certainly a most wonderful way to spend the last semi-family outing before we no longer had a home.
A physical home, that is. The home we have in our hearts...well, that, my friends, is everlasting.
And we didn't tell Timothy.
The fun began while Christopher stood outside smoking a cigarette with Timothy and Daniel keeping him company while Rebekah and I went inside to claim our reserved tickets. I saw a car pull up just a yard past them--a regular car, mind you, not a limo--and Ron Moody stepped out.
The boys, of course, were oblivious.
I rushed outside just in time to see Mark Lester help Ron up the curb, and I drew Timothy's attention to it. He grew excited at the coincidence, so I admitted that was the entire reason we were here. By then, Christopher and Daniel had turned around, but Mark and Ron had already entered the theater.
Because money was tight; because we had no working well and consequently spent much money on bottled water and laundromats; and because we were soon to be homeless, we decided to chip in evenly to buy just one poster with all three stars' photos on it, to the tune of fifty dollars (GROAN), and let Timothy be the one to keep it.
Then we waited patiently in line, until I got woozy and remembered I hadn't drunk much water that day (I take massive amounts of antihistamines and am prone to dehydration). It wouldn't do to pass out in line (not the way I prefer to attract attention), but the bar was nearby so Christopher bought me a three dollar water bottle, which I consumed in about three swallows.
For those of you that know Christopher, he had plenty to say about the cost, to the bartender and to anyone in line that couldn't avoid listening to it. If you don't know Christopher, I'll just skip to the next part.
Mark Lester was professionally polite, until I told him we were huge Melody fans, proving it by gesturing to Daniel and saying, "I like Daniel much more than I like geography."
He perked up at that point, said Melody was quite a good film and that he couldn't understand why it didn't do better at the box office. He chatted a bit more until I could feel the impatience of the line behind us. So we thanked him and moved on, but I couldn't help saying, "Please sir, I want some more...."
To which Mark pointed his finger at me with a grin and said, "Popcorn!"
Next stop was Shani Wallis. She was friendly polite and even more friendly after I introduced my children (She loved their names!) She stopped signing, disbelieving I was their mother.
Shani looked straight at me and asked, "How old are you?"
"Fifty-two," I replied.
She gaped, recovered, and then said, "How old do you think I am?"
"Fifty-two," I quickly answered.
Shani said, "I'm eighty."
Eighty! The woman is a complete knock out!
I blurted out, "I want to be you," and I meant it.
Shani kissed Christopher and chatted to the kids. I stepped back as a man approached me from the side. He introduced himself as her husband and manager, so I introduced myself as a freelance writer. Long story short, he asked if I'd write a story about Shani, and we traded phone numbers. And yes, I've been researching possible venues. Hoping!
Finally, we made it to Ron Moody. He had a hard time grasping that we really had come to the theater to celebrate Timothy's birthday. When he finally understood that HE was my son's twenty-third birthday present, he started singing Happy Birthday to him.
I couldn't grab my phone fast enough. So I interupted Ron and asked him to start over. He stopped in mid-note, really surprised at such a daring question. But he did start over, and my phone promptly stopped recording.
REALLY???
Christopher quickly took out his phone, and we recorded most of it. The movie was almost--and they key word is "almost"--anticlimatic. To see it again in such context was really amazing and certainly a most wonderful way to spend the last semi-family outing before we no longer had a home.
A physical home, that is. The home we have in our hearts...well, that, my friends, is everlasting.
Monday, September 23, 2013
So Now That We're Adjusting to our New Status....
....homeless status, that is, I figured it was time to get back to daily blogging.
We've finally figured out how to transport people to work and school, despite the fact we've limited access to vehicles.
I'm ALMOST caught up with assignments and VERY NEARLY settled into a routine of working from two separate offices (one from my mother's house and one from my oldest son's apartments).
The cats haven't quite adjusted to their new home, but they've adjusted enough to have acquired some cabin fever, which will remain feverish until the electric fence people adjust the line to eliminate the gap. As proof of the restlessness plaguing Frances, Midnight, Faith, and Hope, I received the following text from Christopher early Sunday morning:
The door was closed all the way but hasn't been latching. Besides breakfast, how many meals should they skip?
Unfortunately, I won't complete the first "Adventures of Cornell Dyer" and "Bertrand" books in time for the author fair on October 12. We still have a partial house to break down, which will eat up any photography time, since the former Unland casa goes to sheriff's sale October 4.
Fictionwise, the focus is on editing Staked! and getting that book--the third in the BryonySeries--ready for a Thanksgiving Day release. I don't quite have all the editorial notes back from Vicki Thompson, the novel's lead editor, but I've quite enjoyed sifting through the evaluation, comments and edits from Colleen Robbins to get a feel for the work involved.
This week, I'll share some of Colleen's insight, but not tomorrow.
THAT's reserved for the "Oliver!" recap. Promise.
We've finally figured out how to transport people to work and school, despite the fact we've limited access to vehicles.
I'm ALMOST caught up with assignments and VERY NEARLY settled into a routine of working from two separate offices (one from my mother's house and one from my oldest son's apartments).
The cats haven't quite adjusted to their new home, but they've adjusted enough to have acquired some cabin fever, which will remain feverish until the electric fence people adjust the line to eliminate the gap. As proof of the restlessness plaguing Frances, Midnight, Faith, and Hope, I received the following text from Christopher early Sunday morning:
The door was closed all the way but hasn't been latching. Besides breakfast, how many meals should they skip?
(The answer, of course, was "none.")
Unfortunately, I won't complete the first "Adventures of Cornell Dyer" and "Bertrand" books in time for the author fair on October 12. We still have a partial house to break down, which will eat up any photography time, since the former Unland casa goes to sheriff's sale October 4.
Fictionwise, the focus is on editing Staked! and getting that book--the third in the BryonySeries--ready for a Thanksgiving Day release. I don't quite have all the editorial notes back from Vicki Thompson, the novel's lead editor, but I've quite enjoyed sifting through the evaluation, comments and edits from Colleen Robbins to get a feel for the work involved.
This week, I'll share some of Colleen's insight, but not tomorrow.
THAT's reserved for the "Oliver!" recap. Promise.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
So an "Oliver!" Recap Will Have to Wait Yet ANOTHER Day
At least until I get a chance to upload photos. Crazier week than normal as we'll be out of the house on Friday. So Thursday night is the last night working in my beloved attic office with the cool creaking and swinging wood door. The next Friday Fiction Night will be held...not there.
Will my muse forsake me? (sniff).
On the other hand, (said more stoically), I am right on schedule, work-wise and fiction-wise. Woefully behind in responding to and filing emails, but one can't have everything.
Still planning two new books for the author fair, still planning to shoot photos this weekend, despite the fact that I am now covering an event on Saturday afternoon.
However, now that I'm gazing about my office, the one with stuff everywhere that will ALL be packed up and moved across town...HELP!!!!!!!
What was I thinking???
Will my muse forsake me? (sniff).
On the other hand, (said more stoically), I am right on schedule, work-wise and fiction-wise. Woefully behind in responding to and filing emails, but one can't have everything.
Still planning two new books for the author fair, still planning to shoot photos this weekend, despite the fact that I am now covering an event on Saturday afternoon.
However, now that I'm gazing about my office, the one with stuff everywhere that will ALL be packed up and moved across town...HELP!!!!!!!
What was I thinking???
Monday, September 9, 2013
So an "Oliver!" Recap Will Have to Wait a Day, so Instead....
I'll update you on my writing progress/theoretical plans.
I'm hoping to finish my first Cornell Dyer book this week and shoot the photos for it and Bertrand this weekend.
That's because Friday Fiction Night is going to be Friday Moving Denise's Office to a New Location and then Putting it Back Together Night, so fiction will be a wash. The all-nighter, however, will probably remain, goodie! (said with a hint of sarcasm).
The goal is to have both books available by the October 12th library fair. Time's definitely a'tickin.' I'm sooo glad I loooove to write! :)
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a prologue to finish and another crisis to address. Tomorrow night: Oliver! for sure (I hope).
I'm hoping to finish my first Cornell Dyer book this week and shoot the photos for it and Bertrand this weekend.
That's because Friday Fiction Night is going to be Friday Moving Denise's Office to a New Location and then Putting it Back Together Night, so fiction will be a wash. The all-nighter, however, will probably remain, goodie! (said with a hint of sarcasm).
The goal is to have both books available by the October 12th library fair. Time's definitely a'tickin.' I'm sooo glad I loooove to write! :)
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a prologue to finish and another crisis to address. Tomorrow night: Oliver! for sure (I hope).
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Waxing Nostalgic
Twenty-three years ago on September 7, the date that should have been assigned to this post, I was in a hospital room where a nurse was padding my bed rails and placing a seizure kit nearby, while the doctor was deciding whether or not to schedule me for surgery in the morning and deliver the baby four weeks early.
How fitting that I accompanied my son to a hospital emergency department late Saturday night, immediately after a great time at the annual WriteOn Joliet picnic, when I should have been composing chapters seven and eight of Cornell Dyer and the Missing Tombstone.
So, you see, the title is actually a bit sarcastic and designed to make Timothy laugh on his birthday eve. "Designed to make Timothy laugh" is key here because he didn't find anything about that little jaunt one bit funny.
So although the scheduled chapters did not make it into real words inside my computer (yet), the weekend was not without triumph.
I finished writing the first story in my Bertrand the Mouse series--Bertrand and the Six Leaf Clover--so now I only need to photograph the pictures. I also completed chapters five and six of my first Cornell Dyer story.
In theory, I'm still trying to accomplish seven and eight. In reality, my tired brain can't remember how to spell simple words or correctly locate the correct letters on my keyboard.
I'm calling it a night before I break my nose when it hits my desk. Here's hoping I can still catch up tomorrow, despite the full schedule of events planned for Timothy's birthday.
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
How fitting that I accompanied my son to a hospital emergency department late Saturday night, immediately after a great time at the annual WriteOn Joliet picnic, when I should have been composing chapters seven and eight of Cornell Dyer and the Missing Tombstone.
So, you see, the title is actually a bit sarcastic and designed to make Timothy laugh on his birthday eve. "Designed to make Timothy laugh" is key here because he didn't find anything about that little jaunt one bit funny.
So although the scheduled chapters did not make it into real words inside my computer (yet), the weekend was not without triumph.
I finished writing the first story in my Bertrand the Mouse series--Bertrand and the Six Leaf Clover--so now I only need to photograph the pictures. I also completed chapters five and six of my first Cornell Dyer story.
In theory, I'm still trying to accomplish seven and eight. In reality, my tired brain can't remember how to spell simple words or correctly locate the correct letters on my keyboard.
I'm calling it a night before I break my nose when it hits my desk. Here's hoping I can still catch up tomorrow, despite the full schedule of events planned for Timothy's birthday.
zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
Friday, September 6, 2013
"Twilight Revisted," by Duanne Walton and Story Round Up
Okay, Mr. Walton. We've received a complaint that you showed
up last night at the Mommy Porn Club's monthly Open Mike Night and proceeded to
read something you described as, "The male version of Twilight." Some
guy gets involved with a female vampire, then has to protect her from his
estranged sister who's actually a slayer, and is in town to kill his new girlfriend,
is that correct?
We have reports of several attendees becoming violently ill
and being rushed to the hospital with internal hemorrhaging. Several attendees
becoming violently hysterical, tearing their clothes off, and running out into
the streets screaming. And the president of the Mommy Porn Club driving her car
into her own living room and force feeding her husband his own - well, body
parts.
You didn't invite any of those ladies to this, did you? You
know that sexual harassment charge from several years ago went on your
permanent record, right?
Did you even issue any kind of disclaimer saying that your
story could trigger adverse reactions in people?
You didn't think you had to? Well, you thought wrong. You
need to start being more considerate about how your stuff affects people.
We've also got reports of you at the Joliet Barnes and Noble
several weeks ago, haranguing the girl behind the service desk. You brandished
a couple of books on how to date vampires. Apparently, the books had been
written for women, and you demanded to know why they didn't have any written
for men?
All you did was ask? It never hurts to ask, huh? Wrong
again. You have any idea how much therapy it'll take for that poor girl to get
over your "asking?"
If they were written for women, then what were you doing looking
at them?
Research? Research for what?
Your story. Does everything have to be about your story?
Only what you're putting into in, huh? You've got an answer
for everything, don't you? Then I suppose you've got an answer for this: you've
also been seen using a bookmark with Alice Cullen's picture on it. What were
you doing with it?
Don't give me that "marking my place with it!" You
know what I mean!
I'm going to ask you something, and I'd appreciate a
straight answer. Do you have a crush on Alice Cullen?
I thought so. How did that happen?
Ashley worked her magic on you, huh? What little she's got
to use. They're a dime a dozen these days.
Who gave you that bookmark?
I see. And how long has Hot Topic been selling them?
I see. Well, they won't be selling them anymore, I promise.
So, you used this infatuation to fuel your latest fantasy
fulfillment pornography. And you just couldn't keep it to yourself. What made
you think the Mommy Porn Club wanted to hear it?
What made you think they'd like it?
What makes you think, period? Who gave you permission to
think? Who gave you permission to write this trash? Who gave you permission to
spew it?
Guess you don't have an answer for everything after all..,
do you?
Mr. Walton, you are hear by charged with reading restricted
material, disturbing the public well being, writing offensive material, reading
aloud said offensive material in public without issuing the proper trigger
warnings, insensitivity to others, inciting negativity in members of the
public, and improper possession of a bookmark. You are hear by sentenced to
listen to audio of Judge Judy reading the Fifty Shades trilogy, after which you
will receive three months of sensitivity counseling. Dismissed.
Benefit set for former Plainfield man stricken with heart problems
No person, especially a married young breadwinner with two small boys, should suffer multiple heart attacks that leave him disabled. The benefit is September 14. Please support it if you can.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22235581-423/benefit-set-for-former-plainfield-man-stricken-with-heart-problems.html
Antigravity treadmill takes a load off for Lockport woman
Check out the latest technology for joint replacement therapy.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22219006-423/antigravity-treadmill-takes-a-load-off-for-lockport-woman.html
Lemont man was gifted painter
Meet a true Renaissance man and entrepreneur.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/news/22116433-418/an-extraordinary-life-lemont-man-was-gifted-painter-giver.html
Woods, whiskers and a walk to benefit Will County Humane Society
A 5K walk coordinated by a shelter volunteer and "dad" to a former shelter dog.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22244926-423/woods-whiskers-and-a-walk-to-benefit-will-county-humane-society.html
Lockport woman, brain aneurysm survivor pays it forward
Maria Micheletto didn't merely beat the aneurysm odds with her full recovery. She enrolled in nursing school and now cares for patients in a local hospital's neuro unit.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22340634-423/lockport-woman-brain-aneurysm-survivor-pays-it-forward.html
Joliet girl's lemonade stand raises money for cystic fibrosis foundation
Over $200, to be exact, all done by an eleven year old girl and her friends for the girl's six year old sister, who suffers from cystic fibrosis.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22339760-423/joliet-girls-lemonade-stand-raises-money-for-cystic-fibrosis-foundation.html
Benefit set for former Plainfield man stricken with heart problems
No person, especially a married young breadwinner with two small boys, should suffer multiple heart attacks that leave him disabled. The benefit is September 14. Please support it if you can.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22235581-423/benefit-set-for-former-plainfield-man-stricken-with-heart-problems.html
Antigravity treadmill takes a load off for Lockport woman
Check out the latest technology for joint replacement therapy.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22219006-423/antigravity-treadmill-takes-a-load-off-for-lockport-woman.html
Lemont man was gifted painter
Meet a true Renaissance man and entrepreneur.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/news/22116433-418/an-extraordinary-life-lemont-man-was-gifted-painter-giver.html
Woods, whiskers and a walk to benefit Will County Humane Society
A 5K walk coordinated by a shelter volunteer and "dad" to a former shelter dog.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22244926-423/woods-whiskers-and-a-walk-to-benefit-will-county-humane-society.html
Lockport woman, brain aneurysm survivor pays it forward
Maria Micheletto didn't merely beat the aneurysm odds with her full recovery. She enrolled in nursing school and now cares for patients in a local hospital's neuro unit.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22340634-423/lockport-woman-brain-aneurysm-survivor-pays-it-forward.html
Joliet girl's lemonade stand raises money for cystic fibrosis foundation
Over $200, to be exact, all done by an eleven year old girl and her friends for the girl's six year old sister, who suffers from cystic fibrosis.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22339760-423/joliet-girls-lemonade-stand-raises-money-for-cystic-fibrosis-foundation.html
Short Story and Story Round Up Later, But First: Thursday's Blog
Amongst the work, moving, and last night's WriteOn Joliet meeting, I never returned home until close to midnight, which would place Thursday's post in Friday's slot anyway. So today, I thought I'd post twice.
The problem is, I'm having difficulty finding the words. Sorta sucks when you're a writer, huh?
Yet between the bleariness of insufficient sleep and the mounting stack of deadlines--because it is Friday, after all--a still core of absolute thankfulness is rippling deep inside me.
Three years of dwelling in constant crisis with another year (or so) of strain and difficulties is, if not quite behind us, about to take a turn into a different set of challenges.
And that, in and of itself, is quite relieving.
So for the resolutions, the blessings we incurred despite turmoil, and to a future that's appearing brighter by the minute, I raise my empty coffee mug and say, "Thank you. And welcome."
Have a blessed and glorious day, vampire fans. :)
The problem is, I'm having difficulty finding the words. Sorta sucks when you're a writer, huh?
Yet between the bleariness of insufficient sleep and the mounting stack of deadlines--because it is Friday, after all--a still core of absolute thankfulness is rippling deep inside me.
Three years of dwelling in constant crisis with another year (or so) of strain and difficulties is, if not quite behind us, about to take a turn into a different set of challenges.
And that, in and of itself, is quite relieving.
So for the resolutions, the blessings we incurred despite turmoil, and to a future that's appearing brighter by the minute, I raise my empty coffee mug and say, "Thank you. And welcome."
Have a blessed and glorious day, vampire fans. :)
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Well, Well, Well
Yep, the alpha and the omega of our latest crisis and the catalyst for our recent blessing.
On Sunday night, the well gave out, catapulting our moving agenda into high gear.
On Tuesday, Timothy found an affordable, one bedroom apartment for my oldest son, right down the street from the house. Whe Christopher called, a very familiar voice answered. Lo and behold, a neighbor and relative by marriage owns it, and he and his wife are heavily into cat rescue.
You can see where this story is going, and I'm very happy, too, especially since Christopher now doesn't have to change the incorporation of "Channahon Computer Repair.
Most importantly, I was sooo worried Christopher would be lonesome all by himself. ;)
Now the cats will probably upset at downsizing, but, heck, everyone's making sacrifices. I can't think of another landlord (I know because we've called a bunch) that will not only say "yes" to the lot of them but would act ecstatic because we own an invisible fence and then give us permission to intall it on his property.
If that still doesn't convince them, I could always take them 'round to our local humane society to have a stare down at the seventy cats that would have been their new roommates. Shelter cliques, anyone?
As I told Faith last night as she lay on the floor gazing up at me, "God love you. The God that made you loves you. And don't you forget it."
She didn't comment, so I'm sure she agreed.
On Sunday night, the well gave out, catapulting our moving agenda into high gear.
On Tuesday, Timothy found an affordable, one bedroom apartment for my oldest son, right down the street from the house. Whe Christopher called, a very familiar voice answered. Lo and behold, a neighbor and relative by marriage owns it, and he and his wife are heavily into cat rescue.
You can see where this story is going, and I'm very happy, too, especially since Christopher now doesn't have to change the incorporation of "Channahon Computer Repair.
Most importantly, I was sooo worried Christopher would be lonesome all by himself. ;)
Now the cats will probably upset at downsizing, but, heck, everyone's making sacrifices. I can't think of another landlord (I know because we've called a bunch) that will not only say "yes" to the lot of them but would act ecstatic because we own an invisible fence and then give us permission to intall it on his property.
If that still doesn't convince them, I could always take them 'round to our local humane society to have a stare down at the seventy cats that would have been their new roommates. Shelter cliques, anyone?
As I told Faith last night as she lay on the floor gazing up at me, "God love you. The God that made you loves you. And don't you forget it."
She didn't comment, so I'm sure she agreed.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
And Then the Cavalry Showed Up
One "no no" in writing fiction is this cliched scenario:
The home team is down on their luck; demise is certain and imminent with no way out. Suddenly, from out of nowhere, miraculous help arrives, and they are saved (YAYS and cheering all around).
Believeable? Of course not because everyone knows it doesn't happen that way in real life.
Except it happened that way for us, today.
My heart is still reeling from the miracle. When details are finalized, I'll expound. Until then....
....please just simply rejoice with me. :)
The home team is down on their luck; demise is certain and imminent with no way out. Suddenly, from out of nowhere, miraculous help arrives, and they are saved (YAYS and cheering all around).
Believeable? Of course not because everyone knows it doesn't happen that way in real life.
Except it happened that way for us, today.
My heart is still reeling from the miracle. When details are finalized, I'll expound. Until then....
....please just simply rejoice with me. :)
Monday, September 2, 2013
Laboring on Labor Day Weekend
But, oh, how productive! And, yes, I do have a method to my madness.
I wrote one health column, four feature stories (interviewed three of them over the weekend, one of which I did as an event coverage), and interviewed and wrote two "Extraordinary Life" columns.
That was on top of another crisis (but, of course!) and a funeral on Saturday.
Tomorrow, I have to edit and submit all those stories and write and submit cutlines for their photos. Tomorrow, I also have two interviews (one of them in person), and those stories will need composing, as well.
But, heck, I did attend church on Sunday and watch a movie with Daniel and Rebekah (a so-so movie, but the music was terrific).
And the method? That's for later!
I wrote one health column, four feature stories (interviewed three of them over the weekend, one of which I did as an event coverage), and interviewed and wrote two "Extraordinary Life" columns.
That was on top of another crisis (but, of course!) and a funeral on Saturday.
Tomorrow, I have to edit and submit all those stories and write and submit cutlines for their photos. Tomorrow, I also have two interviews (one of them in person), and those stories will need composing, as well.
But, heck, I did attend church on Sunday and watch a movie with Daniel and Rebekah (a so-so movie, but the music was terrific).
And the method? That's for later!
Sunday, September 1, 2013
Saturday, August 31, 2013
Ed Calkins, Steward of Tara: "Misunderstandings and Cross-Mythologies"
So I sent the following link to Ed Calkins, Steward of Tara:
http://www.zazzle.com/fatal_mistake_cartoon_magnet-147191978103653440
Many days passed before he replied. I was not concerned, as the universe's only official Irish vampire (Psst: Don't tell the IVA) is busy with many ruthless responsibilities. When the Steward finally broke his silence, he emailed the following:
Dear MOMI! (Mistress of my Immortality)
The misunderstandings and cross-mythologies has blurred my vision, stunned my equalliberium (like I was going to spell that correctly), and rendered me speechless.
Can it be that a joke about a Celtic cross is more effective then the cross itself? Perhaps I will comment further when my head clears.
Until then....
Yours ruthlessly.
Ed Calkins, Steward of Tara
http://www.zazzle.com/fatal_mistake_cartoon_magnet-147191978103653440
Many days passed before he replied. I was not concerned, as the universe's only official Irish vampire (Psst: Don't tell the IVA) is busy with many ruthless responsibilities. When the Steward finally broke his silence, he emailed the following:
Dear MOMI! (Mistress of my Immortality)
The misunderstandings and cross-mythologies has blurred my vision, stunned my equalliberium (like I was going to spell that correctly), and rendered me speechless.
Can it be that a joke about a Celtic cross is more effective then the cross itself? Perhaps I will comment further when my head clears.
Until then....
Yours ruthlessly.
Ed Calkins, Steward of Tara
Friday, August 30, 2013
"D'UH!-m Publishing" by Tom Hernandez and Two Weeks of Story Round Ups
D’UH!-m PUBLISHING
To: Ms. Stephanie Meyer
Re: Recent book query
Dear Ms.
Meyer,
Thank you
for your recent submission of your book, “Twilight” to D’UH!-m Publishing. We
appreciate your interest in working with our company.
Our
company’s stated goal is to bring the written word to the masses, in a way that
will enrich our authors and our own corporate bank account. We do this by
appealing to the masses through what we commonly refer to as “LCD Literature” –
that is, books that appeal to the “lowest common denominator.”
Our years
of experience and unprecedented publishing success have proven that the average
person doesn’t much care about the quality of the writing.
Rather,
they are more interested in derivative themes or genres featuring disjointed
story telling; ridiculous plots that defy even the most dedicated attempts to
“suspend disbelief”; sex between unrealistically beautiful teens; low-brow
humor; more teen sex; overwrought, empty, belly-button gazing self examination;
vapid, stilted, simplistic writing; more teen sex; and the kind of “underwear
model” characters who can easily be cross marketed to feed our audience’s other
great passion: Celebrity Status!
Our business
model is as simple as it is successful: “Don’t raise them up, dumb them down!”
Now, to
the business at hand. I have read your book. As hard as it is for me to admit
this, it falls below even our already-shamelessly low standards. Frankly, I
cannot believe you even took the time to put a stamp on your envelope much less
write this book.
We at
D’Uh-m Publishing are usually very happy to put out anything that will sell. I
mean, what the heck? A buck is a buck, right? But we will be even happier to
not publish “Twilight.” Hopefully, someone, somewhere will see this as a
selfless attempt to protect the public, most especially teen girls from the
brain damage that this book might cause them, and give us a gold star in
Literature Heaven.
I would
offer best wishes, but that might encourage you to shop this drivel to another
publisher.
Regards
(but not kind or fond),
Tom
Hernandez
President
D’uh-m
Publishing
A plateful of purpose: woman brings healthy eating program to Joliet
A plant-based diet based on Biblical principles is the best way to eat, Audree Lee says. For more information, keep reading.
Late artists paintings go on display
Gale Tolf suffered from mental illness but that didn't dampen her talent for producing rich, colorful art or live a life as vibrant as her work.
From adoption, a rescue is born
Learn about a rescue group that caters to all herding breeds, and find out how you can help.
Local music at heart of this fest
A local bar and grill owner never forgot the variety of music his grandfather introduced into his life. Certain others would enjoy it, too, Mikie Trizna began a local music festival that attracts thousands of patrons.
Frankfort author writes her own path
When Dianne Gallagher couldn't find a publisher for her crime novel because of its atypical protagonist, Gallagher founded her own company, much to the delight of local book clubs.
Centenarian always had energy, adaptability
Lawrence Santini had a passion for life and a knack for reinventing himself, quite possibly his secret to longevity.
Doctor's orders: canine comfort
Nothing quite brings solace to the dying and the grieving as a well-trained, four-footed, furry visitor.
Mission trip a powerful experience for New Lenox woman
Writing a dissertation may not seem like a prime motivator for a mission trip, but, for Helen Hicks, it not only opened a door for her, it changed her life.
Bolingbrook teen introduced to fine China
Justin Payton not only traveled abroad to study the foundations of another culture, he won an entrepreneur contest two weeks later.
Bolingbrook Joyfest sends music with a message
Pozitive Xchange will be one of those bands. Pollyanna? Judge for yourself after you read the founder of this band's story.
http://heraldnews.suntimes.com/lifestyles/22218942-423/bolingbrook-joyfest-music-with-a-message.html
A princess' tale
Be forwarned: it's a sad one, the story of a seven year old's courageous fight with a rare liver cancer.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Karaoke, Surprise!
So Christopher tells me this morning on the way out to work, "Karaoke at ten o'clock tonight. Timothy's singing."
Among work, team practice, and school, Timothy hadn't sung in public since early February. I'd gone that night only because I wasn't sleeping well that week anway.
I zip past my oldest on the way to the ladder leading to my attic office and call back, "I hope you guys have fun."
He looks surprised. "Aren't you coming?"
I shook my head. "The week's too tight. I can't."
Well, karaoke's now been pushed back to eight-thirty, so I'd better sign off. If Timothy's voice still rocks, I'll post a clip tomorrow.
Among work, team practice, and school, Timothy hadn't sung in public since early February. I'd gone that night only because I wasn't sleeping well that week anway.
I zip past my oldest on the way to the ladder leading to my attic office and call back, "I hope you guys have fun."
He looks surprised. "Aren't you coming?"
I shook my head. "The week's too tight. I can't."
Well, karaoke's now been pushed back to eight-thirty, so I'd better sign off. If Timothy's voice still rocks, I'll post a clip tomorrow.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Monday, August 26, 2013
The Lord God Created the World in Seven Days and We Very Nearly Disassembled Ours in the Same Amount of Time
So as I've alluded in past blogs, we're a family in crisis. The crisis won't end for some time. However, we're close to experiencing a pause, and, hopefully, an opportunity to catch our breaths and regroup.
As a group, we've experienced much turmoil in the past three years: job loss, major medical issues, two divorces, bankruptcy, and now, foreclosure and the "saying goodbye" to our home our home and our cats.
Yet along this dark journey, so many people have blessed us with their prayers, support (monetary and otherwise), and presence that, except for losing our furry family members, I wouldn't change a thing. The people in our lives have been that wonderful.
Also in that time, we've said "Hello" to two new grandsons, certainly beautiful and happy occasions.
Christopher's computer business took off to the point that a cellular company took notice of his activities and offered him a job. He'll still continue running his business, as well.
Sarah's long distance "personal assisting" of me paid off. She has a terrific job, with benefits, which she did not previously have. Her duties? Why editing and formatting, of course. She also still accepts some side projects: web design and book design.
Surprisingly, we kept the course with my three youngest. Timothy, who had just begun Joliet Junior College when the bottom fell out, graduated with honors and is now a national student culinary champion.
Rebekah and Daniel began taking classes at JJC last spring and are, overall, doing quite well. A third semester, suprising again, is paid.
Medical insurance gobbles up more half my income, but we do have very good insurance. With our health issues, we are thankful to have it. Overall, we are in good health, mostly because we have the means to ensure it. For us, this is a blessing that cannot be understated.
In the quest to eliminate a condition I've had all year--by alternative means as I'm allergic to both drugs to treat it--I'm either intolerant or allergic to treatment number one, so it's been a miserable month. SIGH! But the condition won't affect life or limb...as long as the cure doesn't get me first, LOL! Onward to number two.
Crazy work and school schedules meant we had one transition week in which to break down the entire house: disposing of what's no longer in good shape (most of it), keeping a few cherished items (in one 10' x 10' climate controlled storage unit for four people), and donating the rest. Miracles of miracles, three people did most of it in just seven days. THANK YOU Timothy, Rebekah, and Daniel.
When we leave, we will bring only clothes, the essentials for work and school, and personal care items. Blessings again, my parents are temporarily taking in four of us.
I'm not quite sure how I feel about being homeless.
The biggest concerns are Frances, Midnight, Faith, Hope, and Alex. Several humane groups are working with us to place them in good homes. We hope and pray that it is soon, as the alternative is something we'd prefer not to consider.
So if posts are a bit scattered for a couple of weeks, this is why. My sincerest apologies if this sounds gloomy because, again surprise, we are not. The worst is behind us; we look forward, if not with Hope (because Hope will be re-homed) than in peace that we're exactly where God intended us to be.
Oh, and by the way, I now have copies of the official edition of Visage. Email me at bryonyseries@gmail.com for the cost to ship an autographed copy.
Editing for Staked! is a bit delayed, but that should not affect a late November release date.
Production for the first book in the middle school "Cornell Dyer" series is right on track.
Bertrand the mouse should arrive this week.
Life, for all its twists and bumps, is good.
As a group, we've experienced much turmoil in the past three years: job loss, major medical issues, two divorces, bankruptcy, and now, foreclosure and the "saying goodbye" to our home our home and our cats.
Yet along this dark journey, so many people have blessed us with their prayers, support (monetary and otherwise), and presence that, except for losing our furry family members, I wouldn't change a thing. The people in our lives have been that wonderful.
Also in that time, we've said "Hello" to two new grandsons, certainly beautiful and happy occasions.
Christopher's computer business took off to the point that a cellular company took notice of his activities and offered him a job. He'll still continue running his business, as well.
Sarah's long distance "personal assisting" of me paid off. She has a terrific job, with benefits, which she did not previously have. Her duties? Why editing and formatting, of course. She also still accepts some side projects: web design and book design.
Surprisingly, we kept the course with my three youngest. Timothy, who had just begun Joliet Junior College when the bottom fell out, graduated with honors and is now a national student culinary champion.
Rebekah and Daniel began taking classes at JJC last spring and are, overall, doing quite well. A third semester, suprising again, is paid.
Medical insurance gobbles up more half my income, but we do have very good insurance. With our health issues, we are thankful to have it. Overall, we are in good health, mostly because we have the means to ensure it. For us, this is a blessing that cannot be understated.
In the quest to eliminate a condition I've had all year--by alternative means as I'm allergic to both drugs to treat it--I'm either intolerant or allergic to treatment number one, so it's been a miserable month. SIGH! But the condition won't affect life or limb...as long as the cure doesn't get me first, LOL! Onward to number two.
Crazy work and school schedules meant we had one transition week in which to break down the entire house: disposing of what's no longer in good shape (most of it), keeping a few cherished items (in one 10' x 10' climate controlled storage unit for four people), and donating the rest. Miracles of miracles, three people did most of it in just seven days. THANK YOU Timothy, Rebekah, and Daniel.
When we leave, we will bring only clothes, the essentials for work and school, and personal care items. Blessings again, my parents are temporarily taking in four of us.
I'm not quite sure how I feel about being homeless.
The biggest concerns are Frances, Midnight, Faith, Hope, and Alex. Several humane groups are working with us to place them in good homes. We hope and pray that it is soon, as the alternative is something we'd prefer not to consider.
So if posts are a bit scattered for a couple of weeks, this is why. My sincerest apologies if this sounds gloomy because, again surprise, we are not. The worst is behind us; we look forward, if not with Hope (because Hope will be re-homed) than in peace that we're exactly where God intended us to be.
Oh, and by the way, I now have copies of the official edition of Visage. Email me at bryonyseries@gmail.com for the cost to ship an autographed copy.
Editing for Staked! is a bit delayed, but that should not affect a late November release date.
Production for the first book in the middle school "Cornell Dyer" series is right on track.
Bertrand the mouse should arrive this week.
Life, for all its twists and bumps, is good.
Thursday, August 22, 2013
Meet Bertrand
In Staked!, I introduce you to a new character: Bertrand, a gray attic mouse. And what does a mouse have to do with a vampire story?
Ah, well, hmmm....
Anyway, Sarah Stegall, web adminstrator emeritus for BryonySeries, suggested a series for children based on Bertrand and his adventures. All the stories will begin with Bryony telling Anna a story about Bertrand, so although Bertrand is not very Victorian in Staked!, he will be in his stories.
And yes, there's a very good plot reason for all of the above.
So Sarah shared the idea with a friend that crochets animal ornaments. The friend was very happy to make two Bertrands, one for me and one for Sarah.
Our Bertrands should arrive next week. Once they do, Sarah and I will begin photographing Bertrand in a variety of scenes and circumstances, ala Dare Wright. Anyone remember her Lonely Doll series from ages ago?
My grandson Lucas has even suggested a few story ideas. We can't wait to begin.
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Monday, August 19, 2013
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