Dear Friend,
The Office of Letters and Light is doing another writing event, like National Novel Writing Month, but instead of holding it in November they're doing it in the summer, for two months. It's called Camp NaNoWriMo! For at least the month of July (the beta testing month) I will participate by writing another 50,000 word novel in the course of one month. Depending on how that goes, I may decide to do it again in August. That's right, two novels in two months, then a break for two months to do it again in November. I could possibly write three books this year. Wow.
The most interesting part of this is, I haven't planned very much this time. I came up with my plot two days ago, and I haven't outlined any of it yet. I have only three characters thought out, too. What's weird is that I'm taking a character from my previous NaNovel (written last November) and going back in time and writing about her adolescence. In all of my writing about this character I've "known" that she grew up with two particular friends, so naturally you would think that those two characters would feature prominently in the story of her childhood, right? Wrong. I also knew that every summer those two friends would be gone, visiting family, leaving the main character alone. I'm setting this novel in the summer, so her friends are gone. Am I crazy? I've just made this much harder for me, but I'm looking forward to the challenge. Besides, in 50,000 words I can probably get back to the point where her friends have come back home. I've been able to think up two characters for my main character to interact with, though, and I think it will set up some interesting story telling ideas.
So, tonight, midnight, I'll start my crazy method of writing stories. I hope I last the whole month, for the third time.
Showing posts with label squee. Show all posts
Showing posts with label squee. Show all posts
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Saturday, June 18, 2011
New Owl City Album, you know I had to write about it, didn't you?
Dear Friend,
Remember how I'mobsessed with a fan of Owl City? Well, this past Tuesday "All Things Bright and Beautiful" came out, and nothing was going to stop me from getting it. (Actually, I just downloaded it, like everything of Adam Young's, it all came from ITunes.)
Between bouts of listening to nothing but the Beatles I've managed to play this new album almost enough times to memorize the lyrics, and I thought I'd just write down a few thoughts on it, track by track. (I'm getting the track order from Amazon, since downloading it after pre-ordering put the second version of Alligator Sky as a different album. If the order is wonky, don't blame me, blame Amazon.)
1. The Real World: Honestly, not the greatest opening for the CD, but good. Very typical of Adam; dreamy, electronic sound and sweet, surreal lyrics. "Reality is a lovely place/but I wouldn't want to live there" 3/5
2. Deer in the Headlights: I love the opening of this, especially since it made my Mom stop and say, "What sort of instrument is that?!" Lots of energy and catchy. The lyrics are also quite funny. 4.5/5
3. Angels: So far the odd numbered songs are leaving me a little cold. Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad song, and I love singing along with it, but it's no "Fireflies." The highlight is the line "I believe there are beautiful things seen by the astronauts." 3/5
4. Dreams Don't Turn to Dust: I love it. I'm not sure I can get very eloquent about why, probably my usual reason for liking optimistic songs. Upbeat, idealistic, fun, and I love the percussion. 4/5
5. Honey and the Bee: Joined by Breanne Duren, this song is so sweet and lovely. I have always liked how Adam and Breanne sound together, her voice is so sweet and girly compared to his geeky boy sound. Guitar in this song is great, too. 4/5
6. Kamikaze: I LOVE this song, though I don't actually understand what he's singing. I know that sounds stupid, but it's true. His shouting in the chorus just energizes me, and I love the beat of the song, along with the sounds. 4.5/5
7. January 28, 1986: This really just works as an intro to "Galaxies", so I'll move on.
8. Galaxies: I've been waiting for this song for literally months. I loved it from the time he put the samples on his website. I love the energy, the Christian theme, they words, everything. I don't even mind that possibly half of the lyrics are "da, da, da, da." If this were the only song on the album I'd have thought it was worth the money. 5/5
9. Hospital Flowers: Back to the odd numbers not grabbing me. It's a slow song, and to me, depressing. I realize that the idea behind it is supposed to be optimistic "Happiness returned to me/Through a grave emergency" but it bums me out. It will probably be good for those blue days, though. 2.5/5
10. Alligator Sky (feat. Shawn Chrystopher): I've listened to this song so many times I don't know if I'll ever bother to listen to it again. It was the first single, and downloaded automatically when you pre-ordered the album. All I can say is Owl City and rap don't really play well together. I like the song, but often wished I could hear it without the rapping. Now that I have the album, I can. Hard to rate, though, I'll give it a 2/5
11. The Yacht Club: Joined by Lights. (I probably didn't capitalize her name properly, sorry) It's not a bad song, but really, the poor odd numbered songs. I don't really get the lyrics, and can't connect to it. I like the collaboration with Lights, and I'll definitely listen to this often. 3/5
12. Plant Life: I want to know how much of this song was Adam Young and how much was Matt Theissen. I can imagine Relient K doing this song (actually, I want to hear them do it.) I love this song to pieces and bits. I think I listened to it three times in a row last night. I adore the waltz tempo, the imagery, the accordion (?) just everything. I love everything about it. 5/5
13. How I Became the Sea: Um, wow, I feel like I'm dreaming a very bizarre dream whenever I hear this song. It's an amazing feeling, and I'm fascinated by the song, but in a way I can't tell if I actually like it, you know? (So much emotion that my sentences run on, apparently) 4/5
14: Alligator Sky: Ah, finally, the real "Alligator Sky." I love it. I feel like most of my comments are repeating themselves, so I won't elaborate, other than to say, Adam, please, no more rapping. 4.5/5
15. Lonely Lullaby: This isn't actually on the album. It's available through Owl City Galaxy, though. I've written about it before, but that was more of how the song made me feel. I'm over that now, by the way. It's still a lovely song, and I think he should have put it on the actual album instead of making it an online "club" type of exclusive. I hate that sort of thing. The song itself earns 4/5
There you go, my thoughts on Owl City's "All Things Bright and Beautiful." Check it out, you might like it.
Remember how I'm
1. The Real World: Honestly, not the greatest opening for the CD, but good. Very typical of Adam; dreamy, electronic sound and sweet, surreal lyrics. "Reality is a lovely place/but I wouldn't want to live there" 3/5
2. Deer in the Headlights: I love the opening of this, especially since it made my Mom stop and say, "What sort of instrument is that?!" Lots of energy and catchy. The lyrics are also quite funny. 4.5/5
3. Angels: So far the odd numbered songs are leaving me a little cold. Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad song, and I love singing along with it, but it's no "Fireflies." The highlight is the line "I believe there are beautiful things seen by the astronauts." 3/5
4. Dreams Don't Turn to Dust: I love it. I'm not sure I can get very eloquent about why, probably my usual reason for liking optimistic songs. Upbeat, idealistic, fun, and I love the percussion. 4/5
5. Honey and the Bee: Joined by Breanne Duren, this song is so sweet and lovely. I have always liked how Adam and Breanne sound together, her voice is so sweet and girly compared to his geeky boy sound. Guitar in this song is great, too. 4/5
6. Kamikaze: I LOVE this song, though I don't actually understand what he's singing. I know that sounds stupid, but it's true. His shouting in the chorus just energizes me, and I love the beat of the song, along with the sounds. 4.5/5
7. January 28, 1986: This really just works as an intro to "Galaxies", so I'll move on.
8. Galaxies: I've been waiting for this song for literally months. I loved it from the time he put the samples on his website. I love the energy, the Christian theme, they words, everything. I don't even mind that possibly half of the lyrics are "da, da, da, da." If this were the only song on the album I'd have thought it was worth the money. 5/5
9. Hospital Flowers: Back to the odd numbers not grabbing me. It's a slow song, and to me, depressing. I realize that the idea behind it is supposed to be optimistic "Happiness returned to me/Through a grave emergency" but it bums me out. It will probably be good for those blue days, though. 2.5/5
10. Alligator Sky (feat. Shawn Chrystopher): I've listened to this song so many times I don't know if I'll ever bother to listen to it again. It was the first single, and downloaded automatically when you pre-ordered the album. All I can say is Owl City and rap don't really play well together. I like the song, but often wished I could hear it without the rapping. Now that I have the album, I can. Hard to rate, though, I'll give it a 2/5
11. The Yacht Club: Joined by Lights. (I probably didn't capitalize her name properly, sorry) It's not a bad song, but really, the poor odd numbered songs. I don't really get the lyrics, and can't connect to it. I like the collaboration with Lights, and I'll definitely listen to this often. 3/5
12. Plant Life: I want to know how much of this song was Adam Young and how much was Matt Theissen. I can imagine Relient K doing this song (actually, I want to hear them do it.) I love this song to pieces and bits. I think I listened to it three times in a row last night. I adore the waltz tempo, the imagery, the accordion (?) just everything. I love everything about it. 5/5
13. How I Became the Sea: Um, wow, I feel like I'm dreaming a very bizarre dream whenever I hear this song. It's an amazing feeling, and I'm fascinated by the song, but in a way I can't tell if I actually like it, you know? (So much emotion that my sentences run on, apparently) 4/5
14: Alligator Sky: Ah, finally, the real "Alligator Sky." I love it. I feel like most of my comments are repeating themselves, so I won't elaborate, other than to say, Adam, please, no more rapping. 4.5/5
15. Lonely Lullaby: This isn't actually on the album. It's available through Owl City Galaxy, though. I've written about it before, but that was more of how the song made me feel. I'm over that now, by the way. It's still a lovely song, and I think he should have put it on the actual album instead of making it an online "club" type of exclusive. I hate that sort of thing. The song itself earns 4/5
There you go, my thoughts on Owl City's "All Things Bright and Beautiful." Check it out, you might like it.
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Blog title change, here's why
Dear Friend,
If you are particularly observant, you may notice that the official name of this blog has changed from "Letter to You, My Friend" to simply "Dear Friend." I've been addressing my blog entries Dear Friend for years, and may not have given a thorough explanation of why I do. If you are, as I said before, particularly observant you probably noticed various references to You've Got Mail around the blog. I have, on the top right column of the page, a quote from that movie, and my tags list is under the heading "Fox Books" which was the book store owned by the character played by Tom Hanks. My links list may prove more difficult to understand, though, since it's not from You've Got Mail, it's from The Shop Around the Corner, the movie that inspired You've Got Mail. Also, instead of listing followers and friends I have "Box 237" which was the post office box number in In the Good Old Summertime.
Those movies are the reason that I begin my blog entries with "Dear Friend." A plot that despite being done three times over on film still touches my heart each and every time. In each of these movies two people begin corresponding, either through letters or e-mail, and feel a strong connection, building up to love, with each other; while at the same time, they work with or interact with each other in their everyday lives and don't get along. They don't know that the same person that lifts their spirits with their letters is the same person who drives them crazy.
The first film, The Shop Around the Corner with James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan, is set in Budapest Hungary and the main characters work in a leather goods shop. In the second, In the Good Old Summertime with Judy Garland and Van Johnson, is a period film and in a way a musical with the characters working in a music store. The third, You've Got Mail with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, is set in New York and instead of the characters working together, they are rivals in the book business. Each film has its own setting, feel and situation, but the plot, and heart, are the same.
One of the elements that is shared by each film is the fact that each letter sent is begun "Dear Friend." I love that touch. I am enchanted by the possibility that two people can get to know and love each other through letters. It almost seems like an idealistic fantasy, which could almost be a little of the point since the characters originally don't get along in person.
Another aspect of these films that I like is how these films illustrate that your impression of another person can be wrong. You can disagree with them but that shouldn't be the basis of how you think of them in every other aspect of their lives. Most of the time the characters met and initially liked each other, but somehow got on each others wrong side. It's nice to watch people take a second look at what they thought they knew and reevaluate it.
So there you have it, the reason I begin all of my notes to you with "Dear Friend." I've seen these movies so many times that it rubbed off on me. I can definitely recommend that you see each one of them. (My personal favorite of the trio is Shop Around the Corner)
If you are particularly observant, you may notice that the official name of this blog has changed from "Letter to You, My Friend" to simply "Dear Friend." I've been addressing my blog entries Dear Friend for years, and may not have given a thorough explanation of why I do. If you are, as I said before, particularly observant you probably noticed various references to You've Got Mail around the blog. I have, on the top right column of the page, a quote from that movie, and my tags list is under the heading "Fox Books" which was the book store owned by the character played by Tom Hanks. My links list may prove more difficult to understand, though, since it's not from You've Got Mail, it's from The Shop Around the Corner, the movie that inspired You've Got Mail. Also, instead of listing followers and friends I have "Box 237" which was the post office box number in In the Good Old Summertime.
Those movies are the reason that I begin my blog entries with "Dear Friend." A plot that despite being done three times over on film still touches my heart each and every time. In each of these movies two people begin corresponding, either through letters or e-mail, and feel a strong connection, building up to love, with each other; while at the same time, they work with or interact with each other in their everyday lives and don't get along. They don't know that the same person that lifts their spirits with their letters is the same person who drives them crazy.
The first film, The Shop Around the Corner with James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan, is set in Budapest Hungary and the main characters work in a leather goods shop. In the second, In the Good Old Summertime with Judy Garland and Van Johnson, is a period film and in a way a musical with the characters working in a music store. The third, You've Got Mail with Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, is set in New York and instead of the characters working together, they are rivals in the book business. Each film has its own setting, feel and situation, but the plot, and heart, are the same.
One of the elements that is shared by each film is the fact that each letter sent is begun "Dear Friend." I love that touch. I am enchanted by the possibility that two people can get to know and love each other through letters. It almost seems like an idealistic fantasy, which could almost be a little of the point since the characters originally don't get along in person.
Another aspect of these films that I like is how these films illustrate that your impression of another person can be wrong. You can disagree with them but that shouldn't be the basis of how you think of them in every other aspect of their lives. Most of the time the characters met and initially liked each other, but somehow got on each others wrong side. It's nice to watch people take a second look at what they thought they knew and reevaluate it.
So there you have it, the reason I begin all of my notes to you with "Dear Friend." I've seen these movies so many times that it rubbed off on me. I can definitely recommend that you see each one of them. (My personal favorite of the trio is Shop Around the Corner)
Friday, January 28, 2011
That Voice!
Dear friend,
It has been a very "Frankie" week for me. I'm not complaining at all.
I don't have a celebrity crush on Frank Sinatra, mind you. This isn't a case of "protesting too much," I just want to clear that up. A few years ago my Dad was under the impression that I had a crush on Cary Grant, when I didn't. This is the same sort of thing; I love them, but I don't love them. (I do have a silly, little crush on a member of the Rat Pack, but it isn't Frank, and I'm not telling you who it is, so don't ask)
Anyway, as I said, it's been a very Frankie sort of week for me. Turner Classic Movies aired a movie called the Kissing Bandit, which I just had to watch, since Frank was in it. I have a fondness for Frank's early movies, ones where he played a lovable dork who was so nervous around women that he had no idea what to do. He was such a little, skinny, silly looking dude that the roles fit him very well. In my opinion, the only thing this movie had going for it was Frank. It was silly, beyond the point of being able to be taken seriously. The costumes were ridiculous, so much so that I burst into laughter at the sight of some of them. Frank didn't sing nearly enough, either. Still, I enjoyed watching it.
A few other Frank movies were on but I, unfortunately, didn't catch all the way through. I did, as I mentioned at the end of my birthday post, watched Ocean's 11. I got it out of curiosity about the Rat Pack. I enjoyed the movie, enough to look past it's ridiculousness. (And like I said, I now have a crush on someone in the Rat Pack. Just for fun, use the process of elimination, it's not Dean or Sammy, either.)
The day after my birthday, I used some of my abundant supply of itunes money to buy a few "Essential" albums by Frank and Dean Martin. I love them both. I don't know why it had taken me so long to get actual CDs from either of these two amazing singers, instead of picking up a song by them here or there.
My brother and my sister-in-law sent me a few musicals on DVD as birthday presents. They sent me Singing in the Rain and Guys and Dolls. The smile on my face as I opened the package was considerable. I love both of these movies but had never gotten around to buying either one. As I write, I'm gleefully watching Guys and Dolls, enjoying the fact that Nathan Detroit, and so many others, aren't using contractions. Or should I say, are not using contractions.
I used to love those cartoons making fun of his screaming and swooning fans. They were really my first indication that Sinatra existed. Perhaps they were a strong influence on me, since I consider myself something of a Frank Sinatra fangirl. I was amused to learn that some of those screaming fans were actresses hired and paid to make him seem more popular.
I don't think I could ever get tired of hearing that man sing. It's been an enjoyable week.
It has been a very "Frankie" week for me. I'm not complaining at all.
I don't have a celebrity crush on Frank Sinatra, mind you. This isn't a case of "protesting too much," I just want to clear that up. A few years ago my Dad was under the impression that I had a crush on Cary Grant, when I didn't. This is the same sort of thing; I love them, but I don't love them. (I do have a silly, little crush on a member of the Rat Pack, but it isn't Frank, and I'm not telling you who it is, so don't ask)
Anyway, as I said, it's been a very Frankie sort of week for me. Turner Classic Movies aired a movie called the Kissing Bandit, which I just had to watch, since Frank was in it. I have a fondness for Frank's early movies, ones where he played a lovable dork who was so nervous around women that he had no idea what to do. He was such a little, skinny, silly looking dude that the roles fit him very well. In my opinion, the only thing this movie had going for it was Frank. It was silly, beyond the point of being able to be taken seriously. The costumes were ridiculous, so much so that I burst into laughter at the sight of some of them. Frank didn't sing nearly enough, either. Still, I enjoyed watching it.
A few other Frank movies were on but I, unfortunately, didn't catch all the way through. I did, as I mentioned at the end of my birthday post, watched Ocean's 11. I got it out of curiosity about the Rat Pack. I enjoyed the movie, enough to look past it's ridiculousness. (And like I said, I now have a crush on someone in the Rat Pack. Just for fun, use the process of elimination, it's not Dean or Sammy, either.)
The day after my birthday, I used some of my abundant supply of itunes money to buy a few "Essential" albums by Frank and Dean Martin. I love them both. I don't know why it had taken me so long to get actual CDs from either of these two amazing singers, instead of picking up a song by them here or there.
My brother and my sister-in-law sent me a few musicals on DVD as birthday presents. They sent me Singing in the Rain and Guys and Dolls. The smile on my face as I opened the package was considerable. I love both of these movies but had never gotten around to buying either one. As I write, I'm gleefully watching Guys and Dolls, enjoying the fact that Nathan Detroit, and so many others, aren't using contractions. Or should I say, are not using contractions.
I used to love those cartoons making fun of his screaming and swooning fans. They were really my first indication that Sinatra existed. Perhaps they were a strong influence on me, since I consider myself something of a Frank Sinatra fangirl. I was amused to learn that some of those screaming fans were actresses hired and paid to make him seem more popular.
I don't think I could ever get tired of hearing that man sing. It's been an enjoyable week.
Friday, December 31, 2010
A final post for 2010, Silly and Heartfelt all at the same time!
Dear Friend,
A year ago today I decided to put some of my Itunes gift money to good use. I looked around and listened to various clips from assorted artists and releases that had caught my attention in the preceding months before settling on to Ocean Eyes by Owl City. I'd heard his single Fireflies (just like every other person on earth) and had enjoyed to sound of it. I figured it was gift money, so I may as well take a chance with it.
I didn't listen much that night, being rather busy with New Year's Eve traditions, but what I did hear I liked. Little did I know it would send me into one of my "obsessive" phases that I am inclined to suffer through from time to time.
Though, suffer is a horrible choice for the way to describe how I go through these phases. I enjoy every second of immersing myself into a pleasant activity. Otherwise, I wouldn't bother, now would I?
As I mentioned in my previous post about the soundtrack of my year, Adam Young took over my listening habits. I love his music. However, it isn't just that. I love him.
I often have what I call Celebrity Crushes, they're fun and meaningless and often get me to watch movies or shows or listen to music I wouldn't have known about if I hadn't taken a strong interest in whoever the latest "heart throb" is. These little episodes rarely last longer than a month, sometimes less, really strong crushes occasionally last two or three months, and when they're over I still look fondly at the person and enjoy their work. I just don't obsess like I had before.
I've been "in love" with Adam Young for a year now.
I don't know what exactly it is that I adore so much about him. I do know that I find him witty, funny, sweet and inspiring, though. I've been happily listening to his music and reading his twitter and his blog. He quotes some of my favorite movies, including You've Got Mail. He reads wonderful books, even getting me to finally read the original Bambi novel. He's a Christian, and did the best cover of In Christ Alone I've ever heard. I almost can't find anything wrong with him.
But, isn't that a little strange? He's human, just like the rest of us, so he must have some faults. Well, I mean, besides the fact that he's obviously into Blond girls and a vegetarian, but those aren't exactly faults, are they, they're just his opinion and choice.
I've come across people who are so obsessed with celebrities that they believe they're honestly in love with them, and frankly those people scare me. I am not that scary, stalker girl who can't talk about anything or anyone else.(Though, the fact that he's been mentioned in almost every blog entry I've made these past six months might contradict that statement, huh?) The one who sends letters and presents and is upset when she doesn't get any replies or thanks. I also am not the girl who loses sight of reality in the fantasy of some unobtainable "god." I'm just sitting back, enjoying his music and lyrics and thoughts that he chooses to share with his audience.
I've chosen one of his songs to be a sort inspiration for this upcoming year.
Sky Sailing's Steady as She Goes
The tide can bring in anything,
So Steady as she goes!
Happy New Year, and God bless you, my friend!
Friday, December 17, 2010
My 2010 Soundtrack
Dear friend,
I got a lot of new music this year. Some of it really left a strong impression on me, so much so that it almost seems linked to all of the experiences I had this year. That has inspired me to compile a sort of soundtrack from the year.
For whatever songs I can, I'll embed a video from Youtube, so if you're reading this on facebook, and you don't see a video, go to my blogspot blog, there should be a link to click. If you don't you'll miss half the experience.
1. Fireflies by Owl City
2010 was practically the year of Adam Young for me. He somehow swooped in and took over my ipod, not just as Owl City, but also with his albums under the names Port Blue and Sky Sailing. I even bought some Swimming With Dolphins because of his involvement. This was the song that started it all, of course.
2. Terrified by Katherine McPhee feat. Zachary Levi
I got a complete and total celebrity crush on Zachary Levi this year, which is the only reason this song warrants exposure on this list... It's sweet though.
3. Galileo as sung by Josh Groban
I adore this song, I've played it to death, but I still adore it. It's silly and sweet and makes me smile each and every time I hear it.
4. End of May by Michael Buble
This song got me to like Michael Buble again after I had practically given up on him. I've got one hell of a melancholy streak in me, and this song speaks to it beautifully. It's another song I've played to death.
5. I'm Yours/ Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Straight No Chaser
I like this version better than Jason Mraz's which I would have thought was impossible. I love these guys, they are my favorite a cappela group (as though I have a lot of those groups to choose from...) They're amazing.
6. All My Heart by Stellar Kart
Theirs was the only Christian album I bought this year (*blush*) and this song just struck a chord with me. I'm not sure what other songs I've played this often on the album. (Honestly, last year's Barlow Girl CD Love and War is still heavy in my rotations, it was too awesome to overcome this year, I guess)
7. Rhythm of Love by the Plain White T's
Another song I've played to death. It makes me think of summer. Oddly enough, while I was writing my novel this November this song sort of became the main character's theme song. I can't explain that in any type of way, because it makes no sense. But it doesn't have to, it just works.
8. Bienvenue Dans Ma Vie by Nikki Yanofsky
Found Nikki on Itunes this year. I like her voice, and I love this song. Played to death, just like all the others on this list.
9. The Only Exception by Paramore
I'm not usually into Paramore. It seems like the sort of music I'd love, but somehow it just doesn't hit me. Until this song. I love it. Say it with me now: Played to death. LOL
10. Rainbow Veins by Owl City
I told you Adam Young took over my life this year. I adore this song, I think it's my favorite of his under Owl City.
11. Brielle by Sky Sailing
Adam Young again. This song will forever be the song that gave me the idea for my book that I wrote this year. If you listen, don't expect to know what my book is like, they couldn't be less alike. (I wrote a murder mystery, I can't explain how that came about) It's a beautiful song, and I love it.
12. Silhouettes by Swimming with Dolphins
Pretty, pretty song. I've got a story in my head because if this song. Maybe I'll write it someday.
13. Never Knew I Needed by Ne-Yo
The song from Princess and the Frog. I don't care very much for Ne-Yo, but I do like the song.
14. Voce Existe Em Mim by Josh Groban
It took me awhile to like this song, but once I did I loved it. I think it's because of all the drums. It's awesome.
15. Peppermint Winter by Owl City
Adam Young does Christmas! I so adore this song. I wish he'd make a proper Christmas album. The lyrics of this song are perfection!
I think that's enough. Hopefully all of those videos work and all this gathering and typing wasn't a complete waste of time! LOL
I got a lot of new music this year. Some of it really left a strong impression on me, so much so that it almost seems linked to all of the experiences I had this year. That has inspired me to compile a sort of soundtrack from the year.
For whatever songs I can, I'll embed a video from Youtube, so if you're reading this on facebook, and you don't see a video, go to my blogspot blog, there should be a link to click. If you don't you'll miss half the experience.
1. Fireflies by Owl City
2010 was practically the year of Adam Young for me. He somehow swooped in and took over my ipod, not just as Owl City, but also with his albums under the names Port Blue and Sky Sailing. I even bought some Swimming With Dolphins because of his involvement. This was the song that started it all, of course.
2. Terrified by Katherine McPhee feat. Zachary Levi
I got a complete and total celebrity crush on Zachary Levi this year, which is the only reason this song warrants exposure on this list... It's sweet though.
3. Galileo as sung by Josh Groban
I adore this song, I've played it to death, but I still adore it. It's silly and sweet and makes me smile each and every time I hear it.
4. End of May by Michael Buble
This song got me to like Michael Buble again after I had practically given up on him. I've got one hell of a melancholy streak in me, and this song speaks to it beautifully. It's another song I've played to death.
5. I'm Yours/ Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Straight No Chaser
I like this version better than Jason Mraz's which I would have thought was impossible. I love these guys, they are my favorite a cappela group (as though I have a lot of those groups to choose from...) They're amazing.
6. All My Heart by Stellar Kart
Theirs was the only Christian album I bought this year (*blush*) and this song just struck a chord with me. I'm not sure what other songs I've played this often on the album. (Honestly, last year's Barlow Girl CD Love and War is still heavy in my rotations, it was too awesome to overcome this year, I guess)
7. Rhythm of Love by the Plain White T's
Another song I've played to death. It makes me think of summer. Oddly enough, while I was writing my novel this November this song sort of became the main character's theme song. I can't explain that in any type of way, because it makes no sense. But it doesn't have to, it just works.
8. Bienvenue Dans Ma Vie by Nikki Yanofsky
Found Nikki on Itunes this year. I like her voice, and I love this song. Played to death, just like all the others on this list.
9. The Only Exception by Paramore
I'm not usually into Paramore. It seems like the sort of music I'd love, but somehow it just doesn't hit me. Until this song. I love it. Say it with me now: Played to death. LOL
10. Rainbow Veins by Owl City
I told you Adam Young took over my life this year. I adore this song, I think it's my favorite of his under Owl City.
11. Brielle by Sky Sailing
Adam Young again. This song will forever be the song that gave me the idea for my book that I wrote this year. If you listen, don't expect to know what my book is like, they couldn't be less alike. (I wrote a murder mystery, I can't explain how that came about) It's a beautiful song, and I love it.
12. Silhouettes by Swimming with Dolphins
Pretty, pretty song. I've got a story in my head because if this song. Maybe I'll write it someday.
13. Never Knew I Needed by Ne-Yo
The song from Princess and the Frog. I don't care very much for Ne-Yo, but I do like the song.
14. Voce Existe Em Mim by Josh Groban
It took me awhile to like this song, but once I did I loved it. I think it's because of all the drums. It's awesome.
15. Peppermint Winter by Owl City
Adam Young does Christmas! I so adore this song. I wish he'd make a proper Christmas album. The lyrics of this song are perfection!
I think that's enough. Hopefully all of those videos work and all this gathering and typing wasn't a complete waste of time! LOL
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Fun days deserve blog entries
Dear Friend,
Adam Young's (Owl City) other project, Sky Sailing, came out with a new album, exclusively to Itunes for two weeks, today. (I'll give you a chance to find your way through that sentence, now) I had it pre-ordered, and I love it. The album is very mellow, with a lot of guitar, and just right for dreaming.
Psych season 4 DVDs came out today, too. (Un)fortunately, the fifth season premieres tomorrow, so I can't watch all of the discs beforehand. The picture is much clearer than the previous season's which was really grainy for some reason. They look great on a blu-ray player.
I stopped in at Pier1 today, just to see if they had reed diffusers on sale (no such) and discovered that they had a few "fruity" bath products. These products included pineapple themed objects, like soap and bath gel and sponges. Obviously, I had to buy a pineapple shaped bath sponge. Simply adorable.
I watched the premiere of Covert Affairs tonight. It was all right. I'll give it at least one more try. It certainly isn't to the level of Psych, Leverage, Chuck, Burn Notice or Due South for me.
Adam Young's (Owl City) other project, Sky Sailing, came out with a new album, exclusively to Itunes for two weeks, today. (I'll give you a chance to find your way through that sentence, now) I had it pre-ordered, and I love it. The album is very mellow, with a lot of guitar, and just right for dreaming.
Psych season 4 DVDs came out today, too. (Un)fortunately, the fifth season premieres tomorrow, so I can't watch all of the discs beforehand. The picture is much clearer than the previous season's which was really grainy for some reason. They look great on a blu-ray player.
I stopped in at Pier1 today, just to see if they had reed diffusers on sale (no such) and discovered that they had a few "fruity" bath products. These products included pineapple themed objects, like soap and bath gel and sponges. Obviously, I had to buy a pineapple shaped bath sponge. Simply adorable.
I watched the premiere of Covert Affairs tonight. It was all right. I'll give it at least one more try. It certainly isn't to the level of Psych, Leverage, Chuck, Burn Notice or Due South for me.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
My mind rebels at stagnation
Dear friend,
I've not been blogging, even though I've been doing things that I usually choose to write about, for example; seeing movies. I've seen at least Disney/Nature's Oceans (skip it, it sucks, though the footage is pretty), Sherlock Holmes (wow, that was fun! Why haven't I bought it yet?), Iron Man (fun again, but not something I'd buy), and Iron Man 2 (I had just as much fun with that as I did with the first. But I saw them on the same day, so they kind of melded into a single, extremely long movie in my head).
Really, I'm writing now because I noticed something about myself. I like mystery shows, books, and games though I suck at figuring out the solution. I think I know why, though. I care more about the characters than the mystery. I feel as though I am missing the point, but I don't care since I'm enjoying it anyway.
I noticed this when I was watching Sherlock Holmes. My Dad had ordered the movie on Pay per View, but didn't tell me, since he didn't know I wanted to see it. Since PPV is usually a 24 hour deal, in which time you can watch as many times as you like, I decided to watch the next evening. The film cut off just before the end. I wasn't torn up about not seeing the solution to the mystery at all. I wasn't too concerned about seeing the end because I knew (spoiler, I guess) Watson was still alive. (End of the fake, silly spoiler)
Some would look at that as a sign of a very poorly written mystery. Maybe it was, but I've almost never bothered to try to follow mystery plots anyway. A good deal of the shows I watch are either cop or detective shows. Psych and dueSouth especially, but even Chuck and Burn Notice have the same sort of elements. Most people who watch LOST are talking about the need to know answers by the time the finale airs tomorrow. I don't really care. I mostly want to know what's going to happen to these characters, rather than what occurred to make all these things happen.
In other words, I care more about the characters than the stories.
Having realized this, I am beginning to read a lot more mysteries. I even went out and bought a copy of the entire Sherlock Holmes. I've read most of the first novel already, and I'm loving it. All I'm focusing on are the characters of Holmes and Watson. I have tried reading Holmes before, and most of it just went over my head, and I didn't get the hype. I'm catching on now. I find it much easier to follow the story by focusing on why Holmes is doing what he's doing rather than focusing on what he's doing.
I hope all this enthusiastic ramble made sense. I'm just happy to figure out one of the ways my brain works. I don't want to focus on a problem; I want to focus on how the problem affects the person.
(That reads like a soundbite...)
I've not been blogging, even though I've been doing things that I usually choose to write about, for example; seeing movies. I've seen at least Disney/Nature's Oceans (skip it, it sucks, though the footage is pretty), Sherlock Holmes (wow, that was fun! Why haven't I bought it yet?), Iron Man (fun again, but not something I'd buy), and Iron Man 2 (I had just as much fun with that as I did with the first. But I saw them on the same day, so they kind of melded into a single, extremely long movie in my head).
Really, I'm writing now because I noticed something about myself. I like mystery shows, books, and games though I suck at figuring out the solution. I think I know why, though. I care more about the characters than the mystery. I feel as though I am missing the point, but I don't care since I'm enjoying it anyway.
I noticed this when I was watching Sherlock Holmes. My Dad had ordered the movie on Pay per View, but didn't tell me, since he didn't know I wanted to see it. Since PPV is usually a 24 hour deal, in which time you can watch as many times as you like, I decided to watch the next evening. The film cut off just before the end. I wasn't torn up about not seeing the solution to the mystery at all. I wasn't too concerned about seeing the end because I knew (spoiler, I guess) Watson was still alive. (End of the fake, silly spoiler)
Some would look at that as a sign of a very poorly written mystery. Maybe it was, but I've almost never bothered to try to follow mystery plots anyway. A good deal of the shows I watch are either cop or detective shows. Psych and dueSouth especially, but even Chuck and Burn Notice have the same sort of elements. Most people who watch LOST are talking about the need to know answers by the time the finale airs tomorrow. I don't really care. I mostly want to know what's going to happen to these characters, rather than what occurred to make all these things happen.
In other words, I care more about the characters than the stories.
Having realized this, I am beginning to read a lot more mysteries. I even went out and bought a copy of the entire Sherlock Holmes. I've read most of the first novel already, and I'm loving it. All I'm focusing on are the characters of Holmes and Watson. I have tried reading Holmes before, and most of it just went over my head, and I didn't get the hype. I'm catching on now. I find it much easier to follow the story by focusing on why Holmes is doing what he's doing rather than focusing on what he's doing.
I hope all this enthusiastic ramble made sense. I'm just happy to figure out one of the ways my brain works. I don't want to focus on a problem; I want to focus on how the problem affects the person.
(That reads like a soundbite...)
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Darn these two viewing minimum movies
Dear Friend,
I saw Alice in Wonderland today.
All I can tell you is that I enjoyed it. I can also tell you that I can't tell you whether I recommend it or not yet.
My mind works in this weird way when I see certain films. One brilliant example would be Becoming Jane. I went to the theatre the first time to see that film and came out not sure whether I liked the movie or not. I went to see it a second time and decided that it was just ok, not that great. When it came out of DVD I rented it and decided that I disliked the movie. So, that movie was a three timer.
I came out of Alice thinking that I had been entertained. My Dad gave it a 3.5 out of five, and asked me if I would be buying it. I told him I probably wouldn't. This surprised him. I explained to him that it needed to stand up to a second viewing. (Prince Caspian didn't stand up to it's second viewing very well)
Most of the online reviews (given by people who are not professional film critics) are saying much the same thing: It's great visuals cover a so-so story. So, I won't say that. I'll instead list a few pros and cons.
PROS:
Costumes! Costumes! Costumes! (granted, it seems they want to see how many geeks they can get to dress up like Alice at ComicCon this year)
Visuals
Soundtrack by Danny Elfman
Not entirely boring
For some reason Mad Hatter was Scottish sometimes... like when reciting "Jabberwocky" (yes, that's a pro)
CONS:
The Eye stuff (would be a spoiler to explain)
That horrid dance (ditto)
The beginning and ending sequences were dull
There's something missing... I've heard it was edited and chopped a bit from the original screenplay. Maybe that something was left on the cutting room floor.
Actually, I enjoyed it, but I don't know if I will again. I'll have to give it at least one more try.
I saw Alice in Wonderland today.
All I can tell you is that I enjoyed it. I can also tell you that I can't tell you whether I recommend it or not yet.
My mind works in this weird way when I see certain films. One brilliant example would be Becoming Jane. I went to the theatre the first time to see that film and came out not sure whether I liked the movie or not. I went to see it a second time and decided that it was just ok, not that great. When it came out of DVD I rented it and decided that I disliked the movie. So, that movie was a three timer.
I came out of Alice thinking that I had been entertained. My Dad gave it a 3.5 out of five, and asked me if I would be buying it. I told him I probably wouldn't. This surprised him. I explained to him that it needed to stand up to a second viewing. (Prince Caspian didn't stand up to it's second viewing very well)
Most of the online reviews (given by people who are not professional film critics) are saying much the same thing: It's great visuals cover a so-so story. So, I won't say that. I'll instead list a few pros and cons.
PROS:
Costumes! Costumes! Costumes! (granted, it seems they want to see how many geeks they can get to dress up like Alice at ComicCon this year)
Visuals
Soundtrack by Danny Elfman
Not entirely boring
For some reason Mad Hatter was Scottish sometimes... like when reciting "Jabberwocky" (yes, that's a pro)
CONS:
The Eye stuff (would be a spoiler to explain)
That horrid dance (ditto)
The beginning and ending sequences were dull
There's something missing... I've heard it was edited and chopped a bit from the original screenplay. Maybe that something was left on the cutting room floor.
Actually, I enjoyed it, but I don't know if I will again. I'll have to give it at least one more try.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
The Annual Birthday Post!
Dear Friend,
Once again, it is my birthday. It seems to happen every year around this time. Usually it makes me feel both nostalgic and introspective. Not so much this year. This year, I'm more wondering about the future. Frankly, as far as I can tell I'm on the verge of something. It might be something big, it might be something small. I don't know yet. Either way, something has to change, it's inevitable, whether I want it or not. I can't say that I feel ready for it, but since when do life changes wait until you're ready?
It's been a fairly nice day. Amazing, it hasn't been, to speak a little like Yoda. What I've noticed in my life is that if I plan my birthday myself I end up disappointed, so I didn't try to plan much for the day. Having the pick of what to do with my day, I took my mom to see Princess and the Frog again. A good movie, still, but not as great as it could have been, entertaining though. Crush any expectations you might have of it being Disney's greatest film ever, because it isn't. Can you really expect that though? Make a decent movie and slap Disney's name on it and more people will see it, though. Someone brought this adorable little boy who laughed at one scene and asked "Isn't that funny, Daddy?" really loud in the theater, too and that was cute. Do have a nice day, friend, and I'll talk to you later.
Once again, it is my birthday. It seems to happen every year around this time. Usually it makes me feel both nostalgic and introspective. Not so much this year. This year, I'm more wondering about the future. Frankly, as far as I can tell I'm on the verge of something. It might be something big, it might be something small. I don't know yet. Either way, something has to change, it's inevitable, whether I want it or not. I can't say that I feel ready for it, but since when do life changes wait until you're ready?
It's been a fairly nice day. Amazing, it hasn't been, to speak a little like Yoda. What I've noticed in my life is that if I plan my birthday myself I end up disappointed, so I didn't try to plan much for the day. Having the pick of what to do with my day, I took my mom to see Princess and the Frog again. A good movie, still, but not as great as it could have been, entertaining though. Crush any expectations you might have of it being Disney's greatest film ever, because it isn't. Can you really expect that though? Make a decent movie and slap Disney's name on it and more people will see it, though. Someone brought this adorable little boy who laughed at one scene and asked "Isn't that funny, Daddy?" really loud in the theater, too and that was cute. Do have a nice day, friend, and I'll talk to you later.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Princess and the Frog
Dear Friend,
I saw Princess and the Frog today. Now, let me preface this by saying I wasn't especially looking forward to this film. Frankly, I was torn. As an animation fan, and one who loves hand drawn animation in particular (though Pixar has won my heart even with it's computer animation) I was pleased to see Disney returning to it. (Whoever bought into the piece of garbage lie that "audiences only want to watch computer animation" was a moron.) But on the other hand, the film was set in New Orleans and was proving to be filled with Voodoo. I've got a big enough issue with generic "magic" in movies, but Voodoo is a little too real for me, you know? On top of that, there was the issue with making Tiana black, and all sorts of people complaining about whatever they could find to complain about there. But that's a long story I don't feel like going into.
Anyway, friend, I wasn't expecting much from this movie. On top of that, I had been in a very bad mood and that made me extremely cynical and critical when I sat down in the theater. In fact, I hated the previews before the movie, except for the Toy Story 3 preview (I'm so there!) and the Disney Nature Oceans preview. (Side note, this bad mood has affected me in a way that I am crying at the drop of a hat, so I teared up at both of those previews. At the beginning of the TS3 trailer, with the sad song, and at the "I am wonderful" song part of Oceans. I sometimes hate being weepy.)
So, most people know the premise of this story. A prince winds up being turned into a frog by some evil, magical person and needs a princess to kiss him and break the spell. Well, in this version, the prince in question, Prince Naveen, is actually a self-centered, cocky, good for nothing who winds up in the "clutches" of a Voodoo "magician" named Dr. Facilier. (I may have misspelled that, but look at the name, who wouldn't misspell it?) And the "Princess," Tiana, isn't a princess, but she's a waitress who wants to own her own restaurant. Through a slight mix up, Naveen gets Tiana to kiss him, trying to break the spell. Instead, they both end up as frogs.
There, you know the premise. As it's not my personal policy to give away spoilers in my reviews, that's all you get.
After all, I enjoyed the movie. It lifted my horrendous mood a little. I think it was all I needed. I do take slight issue with one of the "good guys" also did voodoo, but that's probably just another instance of Disney being politically correct or what not. I honestly expected the firefly character, Ray, to be something of an annoying stereotype that I would hate. Imagine my surprise to end up loving the character and finding him amazingly inspirational. Trying not to spoil anything, his storyline just about made me cry, and left a bigger impression on me than the A plot. Not to belittle the A plot, I did like Naveen and Tiana. Naveen may be one of my favorite Disney male leads. (Not that he has a heck of a lot of competition. I can think of Prince Phillip and Tramp... yeah, that's it.) Tiana is a good character, too, and surprisingly her spoiled, rich friend Charlotte is a great character. "Lottie" was one of the funniest parts of the movie.
As for the fact that the leads in the film are black, I was glad to see an animated girl with dark, curly hair. I never quite "got" what girls were talking about when they said they were glad to finally have a Disney Princess who looked like them. Probably because I can't imagine the day that they draw a Biracial princess. But sitting in the theater and just realizing that she had curly hair I felt like I liked her more. Silly? Maybe, but undeniably true. There was really only one moment in the film where Tiana's race was made an issue of, and it, apparently, is a blink and you'll miss it sort of thing. As for where Naveen's kingdom of "Maldonea" could possibly be, who knows.
I wasn't too impressed with the music, which isn't great for a Disney film. It wasn't bad music, but there wasn't an earworm in the bunch. I can't remember the tune for a single song from it right now. I did enjoy the song in the credits, though I don't know if I'd admit it out loud, just online.
I loved the look of the film, too. Especially in the song "Almost There." If they had made the whole film look like that I think I would have still liked it. Probably too stylized for an entire movie, though. I though there were a few breathtaking shots, I'll admit.
In the end, I enjoyed it. It wasn't Disney's greatest film, but it was certainly worth watching.
I saw Princess and the Frog today. Now, let me preface this by saying I wasn't especially looking forward to this film. Frankly, I was torn. As an animation fan, and one who loves hand drawn animation in particular (though Pixar has won my heart even with it's computer animation) I was pleased to see Disney returning to it. (Whoever bought into the piece of garbage lie that "audiences only want to watch computer animation" was a moron.) But on the other hand, the film was set in New Orleans and was proving to be filled with Voodoo. I've got a big enough issue with generic "magic" in movies, but Voodoo is a little too real for me, you know? On top of that, there was the issue with making Tiana black, and all sorts of people complaining about whatever they could find to complain about there. But that's a long story I don't feel like going into.
Anyway, friend, I wasn't expecting much from this movie. On top of that, I had been in a very bad mood and that made me extremely cynical and critical when I sat down in the theater. In fact, I hated the previews before the movie, except for the Toy Story 3 preview (I'm so there!) and the Disney Nature Oceans preview. (Side note, this bad mood has affected me in a way that I am crying at the drop of a hat, so I teared up at both of those previews. At the beginning of the TS3 trailer, with the sad song, and at the "I am wonderful" song part of Oceans. I sometimes hate being weepy.)
So, most people know the premise of this story. A prince winds up being turned into a frog by some evil, magical person and needs a princess to kiss him and break the spell. Well, in this version, the prince in question, Prince Naveen, is actually a self-centered, cocky, good for nothing who winds up in the "clutches" of a Voodoo "magician" named Dr. Facilier. (I may have misspelled that, but look at the name, who wouldn't misspell it?) And the "Princess," Tiana, isn't a princess, but she's a waitress who wants to own her own restaurant. Through a slight mix up, Naveen gets Tiana to kiss him, trying to break the spell. Instead, they both end up as frogs.
There, you know the premise. As it's not my personal policy to give away spoilers in my reviews, that's all you get.
After all, I enjoyed the movie. It lifted my horrendous mood a little. I think it was all I needed. I do take slight issue with one of the "good guys" also did voodoo, but that's probably just another instance of Disney being politically correct or what not. I honestly expected the firefly character, Ray, to be something of an annoying stereotype that I would hate. Imagine my surprise to end up loving the character and finding him amazingly inspirational. Trying not to spoil anything, his storyline just about made me cry, and left a bigger impression on me than the A plot. Not to belittle the A plot, I did like Naveen and Tiana. Naveen may be one of my favorite Disney male leads. (Not that he has a heck of a lot of competition. I can think of Prince Phillip and Tramp... yeah, that's it.) Tiana is a good character, too, and surprisingly her spoiled, rich friend Charlotte is a great character. "Lottie" was one of the funniest parts of the movie.
As for the fact that the leads in the film are black, I was glad to see an animated girl with dark, curly hair. I never quite "got" what girls were talking about when they said they were glad to finally have a Disney Princess who looked like them. Probably because I can't imagine the day that they draw a Biracial princess. But sitting in the theater and just realizing that she had curly hair I felt like I liked her more. Silly? Maybe, but undeniably true. There was really only one moment in the film where Tiana's race was made an issue of, and it, apparently, is a blink and you'll miss it sort of thing. As for where Naveen's kingdom of "Maldonea" could possibly be, who knows.
I wasn't too impressed with the music, which isn't great for a Disney film. It wasn't bad music, but there wasn't an earworm in the bunch. I can't remember the tune for a single song from it right now. I did enjoy the song in the credits, though I don't know if I'd admit it out loud, just online.
I loved the look of the film, too. Especially in the song "Almost There." If they had made the whole film look like that I think I would have still liked it. Probably too stylized for an entire movie, though. I though there were a few breathtaking shots, I'll admit.
In the end, I enjoyed it. It wasn't Disney's greatest film, but it was certainly worth watching.
Monday, November 02, 2009
NaNo Day two word cloud
I've made it to 6,276 words! Yipee!!!
This is the second day word cloud. I don't know if I'll do one every day, but it's fun so far, so have another.
This is the second day word cloud. I don't know if I'll do one every day, but it's fun so far, so have another.
My first day of NaNo looks like this in a Word Cloud
My NaNoWriMo word cloud. This is just the text of Day 1. 3,227 words, condensed into a cloud.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
And away we go
Dear Friend,
As I announced on my facebook profile about two weeks ago, I'm doing National Novel Writing Month. Now, what that is, thousands of (lunatic) people are challenging themselves to write a 50,000 word novel in the month of November. You can start anytime after midnight November 1St and you need to finish before Midnight November 30Th. I can hear you thinking, "Do you win anything?" No, but you get a "novel" and a sense of accomplishment if you succeed. Again, you're asking, "Then why bother?" Because it's a challenge, that's why. And so many people have a goal to write a book that they're very likely to never get around to, and this is a way to just buckle down and do it! It's been going on for 10 years before now, and I'm joining in for year 11.
As I'm writing this, I have 45 minutes until midnight. I'm slightly concerned that as the clock strikes twelve I will feel all my ideas and plans rush out of my head, seemingly never to return. I have not outlined any of my plot. Frankly, all I have is a set of 4 characters (I need 6, so those other two better "show up" soon) and a few scenes that I'd like to write. I just need filler. I also need a title, but I suppose that will be easier to think up as the story goes along. At least, I hope it will.
If you want info, you can go to nanowrimo.org and check into all the madness.
Ha, last year I blogged about maybe joining in, but chickened out. This year I signed up before I could rethink it.
As I announced on my facebook profile about two weeks ago, I'm doing National Novel Writing Month. Now, what that is, thousands of (lunatic) people are challenging themselves to write a 50,000 word novel in the month of November. You can start anytime after midnight November 1St and you need to finish before Midnight November 30Th. I can hear you thinking, "Do you win anything?" No, but you get a "novel" and a sense of accomplishment if you succeed. Again, you're asking, "Then why bother?" Because it's a challenge, that's why. And so many people have a goal to write a book that they're very likely to never get around to, and this is a way to just buckle down and do it! It's been going on for 10 years before now, and I'm joining in for year 11.
As I'm writing this, I have 45 minutes until midnight. I'm slightly concerned that as the clock strikes twelve I will feel all my ideas and plans rush out of my head, seemingly never to return. I have not outlined any of my plot. Frankly, all I have is a set of 4 characters (I need 6, so those other two better "show up" soon) and a few scenes that I'd like to write. I just need filler. I also need a title, but I suppose that will be easier to think up as the story goes along. At least, I hope it will.
If you want info, you can go to nanowrimo.org and check into all the madness.
Ha, last year I blogged about maybe joining in, but chickened out. This year I signed up before I could rethink it.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Many thing to review
Dear friend,
I just bought four Cd's and watched a movie. So, of course I've got lots of opinions rattling around in my head, and have decided to write them out.
I'll start with the film, as that will be easiest to sum up. I watched The Brothers Bloom a few days ago. I saw the previews last spring during a summer movie preview show. It looked quirky and pretty, right up my alley. The plot revolves around two brothers who happen to be Con men. The younger brother wants to quit this line of work, but the older brother wants him for just one more job. So their last victim is an eccentric, sheltered heiress.
It was an interesting movie, sometimes it was funny, and it was visually stunning at times. I just... well, I wanted to like it much more than I actually ended up liking it. As far as I can tell, they didn't want a rating of PG so they added in pointless language and a bogglingly unnecessary scene on a train in a thunderstorm to bump up the rating. It may also have been too impressed by it's own clever ideas. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't as good as I wanted it to be. So I can't exactly recommend it. 2.5/5
It did, however, confirm to me that I think Adrien Brody is beautiful. Don't ask me to explain that, I don't get it, it doesn't make any sense, I just find him insanely attractive. (Also, dear brother of mine, who has a habit if bringing up strange topics I've blogged about in front of our parents, let's leave this one off the discussion table, ok? This would just be too weird to talk about with Mum and Pop)
Now, new music reviews. Lately I've purchased the newest offerings from Ayiesha Woods, Barlow Girl, Michael Buble, and Relient K. (Spell check loves all those names right now)
Ayiesha Woods, "Love Like This" is good. I wasn't expecting too much, but the Christian Book store had a coupon to buy two get one half off when I wanted to buy Barlow Girl and I enjoyed AW's first release so I went ahead and got it. It's pleasant and fun without inspiring any strong emotion in me at all. It's good background music, but not my newest worship experience music. 3/5
Barlow Girl "Love and War" is amazing. I was disappointed by their previous release. It did nothing to encourage me or lift my mood. In fact, the last Cd was depressing to me. They more than made up for it with this one. It's encouraging and great for leading me to look to God and see what amazing things He can do and has done. I love the sound of the music and their voices and feel a sort of Beatles kind of vibe from a lot of it. If, you know, the Beatles had been three women, or something. 4.5/5
Michael Buble's "Crazy Love" is pretty good. Same sort of thing from the Canadian Crooner. He's got a few new original songs, such as Just Haven't Met You Yet, which is awesome, but it's mostly covers. They're good, but not amazing. If you like Michael, you'll like the CD. 3/5
Relient K's "Forget and Not Slow Down" is great. Honestly I'd been worried about this release. It feels like RK and I are due for a dud. When I'd heard that this was essentially a CD full of breakup songs I was expecting to dislike it. I bought it anyway. I'm glad I did. Yeah, there are a few melancholy songs that you won't help to lift any mood, there are still great songs that you can listen to whenever you want, single or taken. The sound is great, though occasionally surreal and weird. It might be difficult to put these songs on playlists or in a shuffle since the intros and outtros are almost seamless despite being on different tracks. I still love the CD. 4/5
So, there are my reviews. Hope you enjoyed reading them!
I just bought four Cd's and watched a movie. So, of course I've got lots of opinions rattling around in my head, and have decided to write them out.
I'll start with the film, as that will be easiest to sum up. I watched The Brothers Bloom a few days ago. I saw the previews last spring during a summer movie preview show. It looked quirky and pretty, right up my alley. The plot revolves around two brothers who happen to be Con men. The younger brother wants to quit this line of work, but the older brother wants him for just one more job. So their last victim is an eccentric, sheltered heiress.
It was an interesting movie, sometimes it was funny, and it was visually stunning at times. I just... well, I wanted to like it much more than I actually ended up liking it. As far as I can tell, they didn't want a rating of PG so they added in pointless language and a bogglingly unnecessary scene on a train in a thunderstorm to bump up the rating. It may also have been too impressed by it's own clever ideas. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't as good as I wanted it to be. So I can't exactly recommend it. 2.5/5
It did, however, confirm to me that I think Adrien Brody is beautiful. Don't ask me to explain that, I don't get it, it doesn't make any sense, I just find him insanely attractive. (Also, dear brother of mine, who has a habit if bringing up strange topics I've blogged about in front of our parents, let's leave this one off the discussion table, ok? This would just be too weird to talk about with Mum and Pop)
Now, new music reviews. Lately I've purchased the newest offerings from Ayiesha Woods, Barlow Girl, Michael Buble, and Relient K. (Spell check loves all those names right now)
Ayiesha Woods, "Love Like This" is good. I wasn't expecting too much, but the Christian Book store had a coupon to buy two get one half off when I wanted to buy Barlow Girl and I enjoyed AW's first release so I went ahead and got it. It's pleasant and fun without inspiring any strong emotion in me at all. It's good background music, but not my newest worship experience music. 3/5
Barlow Girl "Love and War" is amazing. I was disappointed by their previous release. It did nothing to encourage me or lift my mood. In fact, the last Cd was depressing to me. They more than made up for it with this one. It's encouraging and great for leading me to look to God and see what amazing things He can do and has done. I love the sound of the music and their voices and feel a sort of Beatles kind of vibe from a lot of it. If, you know, the Beatles had been three women, or something. 4.5/5
Michael Buble's "Crazy Love" is pretty good. Same sort of thing from the Canadian Crooner. He's got a few new original songs, such as Just Haven't Met You Yet, which is awesome, but it's mostly covers. They're good, but not amazing. If you like Michael, you'll like the CD. 3/5
Relient K's "Forget and Not Slow Down" is great. Honestly I'd been worried about this release. It feels like RK and I are due for a dud. When I'd heard that this was essentially a CD full of breakup songs I was expecting to dislike it. I bought it anyway. I'm glad I did. Yeah, there are a few melancholy songs that you won't help to lift any mood, there are still great songs that you can listen to whenever you want, single or taken. The sound is great, though occasionally surreal and weird. It might be difficult to put these songs on playlists or in a shuffle since the intros and outtros are almost seamless despite being on different tracks. I still love the CD. 4/5
So, there are my reviews. Hope you enjoyed reading them!
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Piece of Cake!
Dear Friend,
Oh my! I didn't post at all in the month of August? Obviously I was too busy watching TCM's Summer Under the Stars programming. Perhaps, there will be more on that later, but not tonight.
I finished Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box tonight. I'm still smiling from the ending. I'm not usually the "tragic" romance type, but dang, that was sweet. Toward the second half of the story if I couldn't solve the puzzle within a few seconds I went looking for cheats because it was getting in the way of the freaking story! And I wanted my story NOW!!!!!! Yeah, I'm not sure if the story was even that good, but it was certainly intriguing tonight. That, and I loved "Anton's" voice. I didn't expect it, after seeing pictures of the character all through the game, but it was a great voice. And the movie parts were cool, I loved the animation.
Every time Luke finished a puzzle correctly and said "Piece of cake!" I wanted to run out and eat cake. He didn't say it like it was easy, he said it like he saw an actual piece of cake. So now, I believe I must bake a cake.
Speaking of cake; (nice segue, there, huh?) I've decided to make a cake that looks like a pineapple. It may or may not taste like pineapple, since I haven't decided on that yet. I'm completely new at making cakes that look like anything other than cakes, so this will be an adventure. Besides, I've owed myself Cookies on a Stick for a long time, so those may have to come first in the baking priority list. The Pocky is waiting and everything...
In other news... found a local school that has a program for what I was looking into, so I may be going to school soon. I just have to pray, work out how to pay for it and how to get there...
"Fun" she said with a sarcastic lack of enthusiasm.
Oh my! I didn't post at all in the month of August? Obviously I was too busy watching TCM's Summer Under the Stars programming. Perhaps, there will be more on that later, but not tonight.
I finished Professor Layton and the Diabolical Box tonight. I'm still smiling from the ending. I'm not usually the "tragic" romance type, but dang, that was sweet. Toward the second half of the story if I couldn't solve the puzzle within a few seconds I went looking for cheats because it was getting in the way of the freaking story! And I wanted my story NOW!!!!!! Yeah, I'm not sure if the story was even that good, but it was certainly intriguing tonight. That, and I loved "Anton's" voice. I didn't expect it, after seeing pictures of the character all through the game, but it was a great voice. And the movie parts were cool, I loved the animation.
Every time Luke finished a puzzle correctly and said "Piece of cake!" I wanted to run out and eat cake. He didn't say it like it was easy, he said it like he saw an actual piece of cake. So now, I believe I must bake a cake.
Speaking of cake; (nice segue, there, huh?) I've decided to make a cake that looks like a pineapple. It may or may not taste like pineapple, since I haven't decided on that yet. I'm completely new at making cakes that look like anything other than cakes, so this will be an adventure. Besides, I've owed myself Cookies on a Stick for a long time, so those may have to come first in the baking priority list. The Pocky is waiting and everything...
In other news... found a local school that has a program for what I was looking into, so I may be going to school soon. I just have to pray, work out how to pay for it and how to get there...
"Fun" she said with a sarcastic lack of enthusiasm.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Cabinets, diet, and Mr. Opportunity
I'm helping my parents in the newest diy home improvement project: Refinishing the kitchen cabinets. I'm pretty accustomed to diy stuff, (especially painting, which is a big part of this new project). When we moved into this house I took over the removal of the (hideous, awful, atrocious, evil) wallpaper (from hell) in the master bathroom. In the various times that we've helped friends decorate their homes, I've been my Mummy's assistant decorator, measurement taker, wallpaper remover and ladder climber.
Today's activities got off to a late start, so all we could do was empty the pantry, remove that doors and shelves and finally remove the hardware from the doors. I'm pretty sure that if you give me a screwdriver I can disassemble anything.
We've got a lot of cabinets; upper, lower, island, pantry and wet bar. This will be a long project. I'm kind of looking forward to it.
It never fails that if I think to myself, "Ok, time to cut back on the sugar, stop drinking soda, and maybe loose a few pounds." my mother will buy a boat load of cookies and candy. She'll also load up the fridge with vanilla coke. I'd decided I wanted to drop five pounds, and we've got a fridge filled with sprite and vanilla coke, two types of oreos, cupcakes, inside out junior mints and hagen-dasz ice cream. Maybe I should try to gain five pounds instead. I never mention that I want to eat less sugar, since that would be, you know, too easy. And as the only person in the house who (usually) eats sweets, I fell slightly obligated to consume these goods. Besides, if it's freshly baked, you can't save it for too long before it goes bad, you know? *sigh*
I crossed our entire kitchen to hear the Mr. Opportunity radio commercial. I also left my dad looking confused the other night while we watched tv and Mr. O came on and I got really happy. My Dad just looked at me like I'd lost my mind. My Mom just said, "Rob Paulsen" and that was enough explanation for him, apparently. Really, he ought to have figured that out on his own. =)
Today's activities got off to a late start, so all we could do was empty the pantry, remove that doors and shelves and finally remove the hardware from the doors. I'm pretty sure that if you give me a screwdriver I can disassemble anything.
We've got a lot of cabinets; upper, lower, island, pantry and wet bar. This will be a long project. I'm kind of looking forward to it.
It never fails that if I think to myself, "Ok, time to cut back on the sugar, stop drinking soda, and maybe loose a few pounds." my mother will buy a boat load of cookies and candy. She'll also load up the fridge with vanilla coke. I'd decided I wanted to drop five pounds, and we've got a fridge filled with sprite and vanilla coke, two types of oreos, cupcakes, inside out junior mints and hagen-dasz ice cream. Maybe I should try to gain five pounds instead. I never mention that I want to eat less sugar, since that would be, you know, too easy. And as the only person in the house who (usually) eats sweets, I fell slightly obligated to consume these goods. Besides, if it's freshly baked, you can't save it for too long before it goes bad, you know? *sigh*
I crossed our entire kitchen to hear the Mr. Opportunity radio commercial. I also left my dad looking confused the other night while we watched tv and Mr. O came on and I got really happy. My Dad just looked at me like I'd lost my mind. My Mom just said, "Rob Paulsen" and that was enough explanation for him, apparently. Really, he ought to have figured that out on his own. =)
Friday, May 29, 2009
Saw Up, and loved it
Dear Friend,
My Dad and I went to see Pixar's Up this morning. I loved it.
Up is about Carl Fredricksen, and his house. The movie begins with Carl as a young boy, who idolizes an explorer named Charles Muntz. When Carl meets a young, adventurous girl who also admires Muntz, they become fast friends, and years later, marry. My favorite sequence in the movie is Carl and Ellie's marriage. The series of clips shows a loving, sweet relationship and quickly causes the audience to care about these two characters.
When Ellie is gone, Carl stays in his house, because it makes him feel close to her. But the outside world is getting too close, and all around the house major construction is going on. Through an unfortunate series of events, Carl is about to be forced to live in a retirement home. Carl remembers a promise he made to Ellie, to help her acquire her dream of moving the house to an amazing location in South America. When he's about to be taken away, he releases balloons out of his chimney and floats away.
What he didn't realize is that a young boy named Russel has been caught on his porch. Russel is a scout who needs just one more badge, Assisting the Elderly, and he's been trying to assist Carl, who isn't looking to be assisted.
That's essentially the premise. Honestly, you need to see the movie. The animation is beautiful, the story is entertaining, funny and sweet. I can't think of a single thing that detracted from the film. The characters are well depicted and acted. Carl and Ellie are one of the cutest couples I seen on film. Russel is adorable. Dug the dog is wonderfully and fully "dog." Even the bird, "Kevin," is lovable. As always, I loved Giacchino's score, as well.
I think Pixar hit another one out of the park.
My Dad and I went to see Pixar's Up this morning. I loved it.
Up is about Carl Fredricksen, and his house. The movie begins with Carl as a young boy, who idolizes an explorer named Charles Muntz. When Carl meets a young, adventurous girl who also admires Muntz, they become fast friends, and years later, marry. My favorite sequence in the movie is Carl and Ellie's marriage. The series of clips shows a loving, sweet relationship and quickly causes the audience to care about these two characters.
When Ellie is gone, Carl stays in his house, because it makes him feel close to her. But the outside world is getting too close, and all around the house major construction is going on. Through an unfortunate series of events, Carl is about to be forced to live in a retirement home. Carl remembers a promise he made to Ellie, to help her acquire her dream of moving the house to an amazing location in South America. When he's about to be taken away, he releases balloons out of his chimney and floats away.
What he didn't realize is that a young boy named Russel has been caught on his porch. Russel is a scout who needs just one more badge, Assisting the Elderly, and he's been trying to assist Carl, who isn't looking to be assisted.
That's essentially the premise. Honestly, you need to see the movie. The animation is beautiful, the story is entertaining, funny and sweet. I can't think of a single thing that detracted from the film. The characters are well depicted and acted. Carl and Ellie are one of the cutest couples I seen on film. Russel is adorable. Dug the dog is wonderfully and fully "dog." Even the bird, "Kevin," is lovable. As always, I loved Giacchino's score, as well.
I think Pixar hit another one out of the park.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Two awesome things
Dear friend,
I actually left the house intending to purchase something and ended up coming home with something. I can't remember the last time that happened. It probably was because this time the "something" was specific. It was Freakazoid season 2!
My brother bought me Freakazoid season 1 for my birthday, and the second season came out yesterday. This is the season with my best remembered episodes, such as the one with Norm Abrams, Dexter's date with Steff (and the amazing and mind blowing dance number with the Lobe), and a few others I won't describe just now. It's hilarious in the most ridiculous way, and so much fun.
I also bought Rhythm Heaven today. I had heard nothing but good things about this game. I heard it compared favorably to Elite Beat Agents, which I love, so I decided to give it a go. I love it! I, despite having lack-luster rhythm, love rhythm games. This game is challenging and fun. If you come and visit me, ask to play it, I think you'll like it, ok? Ok, cool.
I actually left the house intending to purchase something and ended up coming home with something. I can't remember the last time that happened. It probably was because this time the "something" was specific. It was Freakazoid season 2!
My brother bought me Freakazoid season 1 for my birthday, and the second season came out yesterday. This is the season with my best remembered episodes, such as the one with Norm Abrams, Dexter's date with Steff (and the amazing and mind blowing dance number with the Lobe), and a few others I won't describe just now. It's hilarious in the most ridiculous way, and so much fun.
I also bought Rhythm Heaven today. I had heard nothing but good things about this game. I heard it compared favorably to Elite Beat Agents, which I love, so I decided to give it a go. I love it! I, despite having lack-luster rhythm, love rhythm games. This game is challenging and fun. If you come and visit me, ask to play it, I think you'll like it, ok? Ok, cool.
Saturday, April 04, 2009
I made something!
Dear Friend,
You know that song, Anything you can do I can do better? My version of it wouldn't say "better," it would probably just stop at the second "do."
I've looked at lots and lots of art and craft sites and things. For years, really. I've seen all these that other people make, draw, sew, knit, crochet, etc. etc. and just marvel at them.
My parents raised me to have this "I can do that!" attitude, or at least an "I can learn to do that!" attitude. (However, some quirk in my personality causes me to shrink back from asking anyone to teach me to do something. This leaves me trying to teach myself to do stuff.)
I improvised a doll today. I've been meaning to try my hand at making dolls and stuffed animals for about a year. Today, I took the plunge, drew an outline, steamed and pinned some fabric, took scissors to it, threw it on the sewing machine, poured plastic pellets into it, and hand sewed it shut. I completed a project in a few hours. That is what I'm most proud of. I finished something. The same day I started.
Yes, his head is lumpy, yes his neck won't support the weight of his head, yes he has no face. None of that matters, I made him. And right now, he smells like Bath and Body Works Warm Milk and Honey pillow spray.
I can't find my camera at the mo', but when I do, You'll see pictures.
You know that song, Anything you can do I can do better? My version of it wouldn't say "better," it would probably just stop at the second "do."
I've looked at lots and lots of art and craft sites and things. For years, really. I've seen all these that other people make, draw, sew, knit, crochet, etc. etc. and just marvel at them.
My parents raised me to have this "I can do that!" attitude, or at least an "I can learn to do that!" attitude. (However, some quirk in my personality causes me to shrink back from asking anyone to teach me to do something. This leaves me trying to teach myself to do stuff.)
I improvised a doll today. I've been meaning to try my hand at making dolls and stuffed animals for about a year. Today, I took the plunge, drew an outline, steamed and pinned some fabric, took scissors to it, threw it on the sewing machine, poured plastic pellets into it, and hand sewed it shut. I completed a project in a few hours. That is what I'm most proud of. I finished something. The same day I started.
Yes, his head is lumpy, yes his neck won't support the weight of his head, yes he has no face. None of that matters, I made him. And right now, he smells like Bath and Body Works Warm Milk and Honey pillow spray.
I can't find my camera at the mo', but when I do, You'll see pictures.
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