What a concept!
I LOVE IT!
Joe Konrath has this GREAT idea about selling one copy of his ebook to a library and they can lend out as many copies as they like in whatever format they like. FABULOUS!
http://jakonrath.blogspot.com/2012/08/ebooks-for-libraries.html
I'm a huge supporter of libraries and I think this is a fabulous idea. Libraries would get one ebook at $3.99 and be able to lend it out to readers. No more waiting for a book, or even going to the library. You could simply download it and read it. Due date comes -- poof, it's gone from your reader. It would save the library an immense amount of money that they currently spend on trying to recover overdue books. It would save the reader money, since he/she doesn't have to worry about returning the book, it's all automated. And authors would get more of their books "out there" for readers, building a larger fan base.
I think this is freaking awesome!
And check out the comments, there are some great ideas on how to do this.
Thursday, August 30, 2012
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Glowgems for Profit - 5 Stars!
This is another of the books provided to me for review. I really, really liked it and gave it 5 stars! I also added it to my book website, www.alienstarbooks.com, on the "Black" page. I have no qualms about a teen reading this book, what little sex there is, well, it's the "she came to me in the dark" and boom, next chapter. No vivid descriptions of sex. A bit violent, definitely a grittier universe here, but teens see worse on their video games and movies...
Let me just plunge right into the review:
I'd read the sample, so I picked up where I'd left off and the next thing I knew, it was very, very late and I was done with the book. All I can say is WOW!
This is the action adventure sci-fi that hearkens back to an earlier era, when science fiction was a rip-roaring, wild ride through the universe. There's not a bit of magic in this book to muck up the science, nor are there long boring explanations of how futuristic gadgets work -- a sci-fi fan's dream of the perfect science fiction novel!
Refreshingly, Davis' universe is diverse, with good guys and bad guys of every ethnicity and race, and often you have to guess by the last name or a bit of a description to figure it out. Zack himself is Black, an unusual feature in science fiction in general -- a Black main character -- and he doesn't even get killed off. I can't call him African-American, he's from Mars. With his crew/partner, Deuce; an intelligent artificial intelligence (AI), Sylvia, running the ship; a wheelchair-bound sidekick/hacker, Rabbit; and an Asian love interest, Cleopatra Lee (hmmm, makes me think of Cleopatra Jones), and an assortment of bad guys, they leap from one situation to the next, never quite stopping between.
I haven't read good, action-packed sci-fi like this in a long time. I liked the main character, Zack. He's flawed, hard-headed, haunted by the past, a war and an experiment that he survived -- more or less intact. He's not perfect, he loses his temper, he gets it all wrong at times and he'll hit a girl. And I still like him. I also like that the nanos inside his body aren't all perfect, he uses them and sometimes they use him, but there's a price to pay, IE pain. The science is just "there", he doesn't worry about how this or that works. No boring explanations in this book, the author jumps right into the story and off you go!
The bad guys are bad guys, his disabled sidekick who also survived the wartime experiment, but not so well, is a computer genius. And the good guys? I questioned as I read, wondering who was a good guy and who wasn't. No spoilers here, you'll have to read the book to see what I mean.
Several times I was expecting the plot to go in one direction and it made a sharp turn, leading in another direction entirely. Interesting! The story kept me riveted until it was over. It's obvious that this is the first of several titles and I'm looking forward to the next one in the series.
I was so busy reading the story, I didn't really notice the few typos that had crept in despite careful editing by the publisher. The book is well formatted, none of those weird glitches that plague e-books.
(I was provided a free copy of the book by the publisher. Other than the book, I received no compensation for this review.)
I'd read the sample, so I picked up where I'd left off and the next thing I knew, it was very, very late and I was done with the book. All I can say is WOW!
This is the action adventure sci-fi that hearkens back to an earlier era, when science fiction was a rip-roaring, wild ride through the universe. There's not a bit of magic in this book to muck up the science, nor are there long boring explanations of how futuristic gadgets work -- a sci-fi fan's dream of the perfect science fiction novel!
Refreshingly, Davis' universe is diverse, with good guys and bad guys of every ethnicity and race, and often you have to guess by the last name or a bit of a description to figure it out. Zack himself is Black, an unusual feature in science fiction in general -- a Black main character -- and he doesn't even get killed off. I can't call him African-American, he's from Mars. With his crew/partner, Deuce; an intelligent artificial intelligence (AI), Sylvia, running the ship; a wheelchair-bound sidekick/hacker, Rabbit; and an Asian love interest, Cleopatra Lee (hmmm, makes me think of Cleopatra Jones), and an assortment of bad guys, they leap from one situation to the next, never quite stopping between.
I haven't read good, action-packed sci-fi like this in a long time. I liked the main character, Zack. He's flawed, hard-headed, haunted by the past, a war and an experiment that he survived -- more or less intact. He's not perfect, he loses his temper, he gets it all wrong at times and he'll hit a girl. And I still like him. I also like that the nanos inside his body aren't all perfect, he uses them and sometimes they use him, but there's a price to pay, IE pain. The science is just "there", he doesn't worry about how this or that works. No boring explanations in this book, the author jumps right into the story and off you go!
The bad guys are bad guys, his disabled sidekick who also survived the wartime experiment, but not so well, is a computer genius. And the good guys? I questioned as I read, wondering who was a good guy and who wasn't. No spoilers here, you'll have to read the book to see what I mean.
Several times I was expecting the plot to go in one direction and it made a sharp turn, leading in another direction entirely. Interesting! The story kept me riveted until it was over. It's obvious that this is the first of several titles and I'm looking forward to the next one in the series.
I was so busy reading the story, I didn't really notice the few typos that had crept in despite careful editing by the publisher. The book is well formatted, none of those weird glitches that plague e-books.
(I was provided a free copy of the book by the publisher. Other than the book, I received no compensation for this review.)
Monday, August 20, 2012
Book Review - Children of Destruction
My book website, http://www.AlienStarBooks.com, is doing pretty well, drawing some attention.
In fact, recently a small publisher contacted me, submitting books for inclusion on my website. In addition, he asked me to read and review a couple of books.
I must say, after reading the first book, those of you who are hesitating to dive into the self-published book market, you need to take a deep breath and go for it. Just be sure to read the samples and reviews so ensure that you have an idea of the author's ability to write an interesting tale, and then get the darn book! You can't go wrong, the prices are darn near used book prices and you can read them on a Kindle or Nook, on your home computer, or depending on the publisher, download a pdf that you can print out a few pages at a time and read at your leisure. (Use the fast draft option on your printer and print two sided to save paper!)
One of the books provided to me (I haven't read the other yet), the Children of Destruction by Al Philipson is a good read, coming to a very satisfying conclusion.
Here's my review, posted on Amazon.com:
I really enjoyed this adult romp that extends from the deaths of darn nearly everyone on Earth to a distant planet, spanning 200 years. A new beginning for both societies, leading up to a violent and satisfying conclusion.
Like another reviewer, I felt like the Matthews family saga dragged a little in the middle of the story, until it jumped 200 years into the future. I would've like to have read about their first contact with other groups of surviving humans. On the other hand, I liked the way the author mixed a bit of social commentary into the mix, in a very Heinlein-like way, and the solutions to their continued survival. I was a bit concerned at how few survivors there were, as I know a lot of very, very intelligent people who have high IQs; it seemed a little unrealistic on that point. But then again, this is science fiction so perhaps some didn't survive due to their mental quirkiness. A little more diversity in the original disaster would've been nice too. Only two children survive to join the Matthews family, one a teen, and they're both white. Hmmm. Surely there would've been more highly intelligent children who lived, some of them children of Color? And no gays or lesbians?
I would've also enjoyed reading a snippet about the alien's evil wife and her reaction when she found out how she'd out-smarted herself. And too bad they didn't take a few slaves along, it would've been cool to see how they'd have adapted to space and a new world. However, the callousness in how they were abandoned highlighted the aliens' brutality and inhuman (and yet all too human) disregard for other species. I did see some irony in the alien protagonist's situation and the end result, 200 years in the future. No spoilers here, you'll have to read the story to see what I mean!
On the formatting and grammar end, there were actually very few typos and misused words. A few places where there was an extra space between a word and a comma, and the smart quote problem where the single quote faces the wrong way on shortened words like 'em. (You have to put two single quotes in, then delete the first one. Write ''em and then change it to 'em) In general, nothing that held up the progression of the story or made me groan in frustration. One more proofreading pass through the book would've taken care of those small issues.
All in all, I'd recommend this very creative and practical science fiction adventure to adult sci-fi fans. Due to the sex, I'd say it's definitely an R-rated adult book. Some scenarios, including the sex and group marriage, may be disturbing to more conservative readers.
Please note that the book was provided to me at no charge and I received no other compensation for reading and reviewing it.
In fact, recently a small publisher contacted me, submitting books for inclusion on my website. In addition, he asked me to read and review a couple of books.
I must say, after reading the first book, those of you who are hesitating to dive into the self-published book market, you need to take a deep breath and go for it. Just be sure to read the samples and reviews so ensure that you have an idea of the author's ability to write an interesting tale, and then get the darn book! You can't go wrong, the prices are darn near used book prices and you can read them on a Kindle or Nook, on your home computer, or depending on the publisher, download a pdf that you can print out a few pages at a time and read at your leisure. (Use the fast draft option on your printer and print two sided to save paper!)
One of the books provided to me (I haven't read the other yet), the Children of Destruction by Al Philipson is a good read, coming to a very satisfying conclusion.
Here's my review, posted on Amazon.com:
I really enjoyed this adult romp that extends from the deaths of darn nearly everyone on Earth to a distant planet, spanning 200 years. A new beginning for both societies, leading up to a violent and satisfying conclusion.
Like another reviewer, I felt like the Matthews family saga dragged a little in the middle of the story, until it jumped 200 years into the future. I would've like to have read about their first contact with other groups of surviving humans. On the other hand, I liked the way the author mixed a bit of social commentary into the mix, in a very Heinlein-like way, and the solutions to their continued survival. I was a bit concerned at how few survivors there were, as I know a lot of very, very intelligent people who have high IQs; it seemed a little unrealistic on that point. But then again, this is science fiction so perhaps some didn't survive due to their mental quirkiness. A little more diversity in the original disaster would've been nice too. Only two children survive to join the Matthews family, one a teen, and they're both white. Hmmm. Surely there would've been more highly intelligent children who lived, some of them children of Color? And no gays or lesbians?
I would've also enjoyed reading a snippet about the alien's evil wife and her reaction when she found out how she'd out-smarted herself. And too bad they didn't take a few slaves along, it would've been cool to see how they'd have adapted to space and a new world. However, the callousness in how they were abandoned highlighted the aliens' brutality and inhuman (and yet all too human) disregard for other species. I did see some irony in the alien protagonist's situation and the end result, 200 years in the future. No spoilers here, you'll have to read the story to see what I mean!
On the formatting and grammar end, there were actually very few typos and misused words. A few places where there was an extra space between a word and a comma, and the smart quote problem where the single quote faces the wrong way on shortened words like 'em. (You have to put two single quotes in, then delete the first one. Write ''em and then change it to 'em) In general, nothing that held up the progression of the story or made me groan in frustration. One more proofreading pass through the book would've taken care of those small issues.
All in all, I'd recommend this very creative and practical science fiction adventure to adult sci-fi fans. Due to the sex, I'd say it's definitely an R-rated adult book. Some scenarios, including the sex and group marriage, may be disturbing to more conservative readers.
Please note that the book was provided to me at no charge and I received no other compensation for reading and reviewing it.
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Where Does The Time Go?
I sit at the computer, day after day, week after week, working away at articles. I often wonder where the time goes, how can it take so long to write what appears to be simple little articles.
Well, you know, they really aren't all that simple.
I have to provide reputable references and resources for each article. I have to figure out my own original view for each topic, making sure that I'm writing in a clear, concise and friendly, yet authoritative manner.
It's not as easy as it looks.
Where does the time go? Between researching, thinking, writing and rewriting, it goes very, very quickly.
But the good thing is that I keep writing steadily, so I must be doing this right...
Well, you know, they really aren't all that simple.
I have to provide reputable references and resources for each article. I have to figure out my own original view for each topic, making sure that I'm writing in a clear, concise and friendly, yet authoritative manner.
It's not as easy as it looks.
Where does the time go? Between researching, thinking, writing and rewriting, it goes very, very quickly.
But the good thing is that I keep writing steadily, so I must be doing this right...
Saturday, June 30, 2012
The Move to Oregon Is Finally Finished!
Thank the Good Lord and my parents.
We rolled out of here at 5:35 am, got to West Sacramento, loaded the big trailer in an hour (hey, when everything is in a storage and neatly stacked, it's a whole lot easier than moving out of a house), spent the night in Woodland and drove back here. We did have to stop and tarp the trailer south of Redding. I didn't expect it to not only rain, but come down in buckets.
So, well, honestly, the stuff is still on the trailer. I've decided that Monday, my son and I will dedicate a day to rearranging the entire garage and unloading all the boxes and bins from the trailer.
It's a good feeling.
Although on a sad note, just so you all know, my friends, the freaking bank turned down a CASH offer on my little house. So it's not my little house anymore. They have it up for sale for only 8K more than the cash offer. Are they crazy or what?
I'm going to settle in here for a few years, get my life in order and save money. I WILL buy again. But by then, I'll really just need two bedrooms, an office/library, and a nice big garage for my stuff. A finished attic would be very nice, then I could manage with two bedrooms, one for me and one for my library and set up the attic for my guests/kids.
Life is still good.
We rolled out of here at 5:35 am, got to West Sacramento, loaded the big trailer in an hour (hey, when everything is in a storage and neatly stacked, it's a whole lot easier than moving out of a house), spent the night in Woodland and drove back here. We did have to stop and tarp the trailer south of Redding. I didn't expect it to not only rain, but come down in buckets.
So, well, honestly, the stuff is still on the trailer. I've decided that Monday, my son and I will dedicate a day to rearranging the entire garage and unloading all the boxes and bins from the trailer.
It's a good feeling.
Although on a sad note, just so you all know, my friends, the freaking bank turned down a CASH offer on my little house. So it's not my little house anymore. They have it up for sale for only 8K more than the cash offer. Are they crazy or what?
I'm going to settle in here for a few years, get my life in order and save money. I WILL buy again. But by then, I'll really just need two bedrooms, an office/library, and a nice big garage for my stuff. A finished attic would be very nice, then I could manage with two bedrooms, one for me and one for my library and set up the attic for my guests/kids.
Life is still good.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
The Importance of Your Book Cover
Yes, I know, it's "JUST" for your new e-book.
Don't discount the importance of a flashy cover.
I've been playing with text and simple graphics to make some fun covers for my future projects. (NOTE: These are MY covers! If you want a book cover, you can contact me, if it's a simple e-book, I don't charge much to put it together for you.)
For example, this is a book that I haven't actually written yet. Murder mystery for sure, but urban fantasy with vampires or pseudo-vampires? What do you think?
Continuing with the midnight murder mystery theme:
Of course, some of you might be a little too young to know the Oasis reference. Lets just say, it was a very popular song and I'm showing my age that I even remember it...
Don't discount the importance of a flashy cover.
I've been playing with text and simple graphics to make some fun covers for my future projects. (NOTE: These are MY covers! If you want a book cover, you can contact me, if it's a simple e-book, I don't charge much to put it together for you.)
For example, this is a book that I haven't actually written yet. Murder mystery for sure, but urban fantasy with vampires or pseudo-vampires? What do you think?
Continuing with the midnight murder mystery theme:
Of course, some of you might be a little too young to know the Oasis reference. Lets just say, it was a very popular song and I'm showing my age that I even remember it...
Sunday, April 15, 2012
My New Website!
OK, this is the project I've been working on ever since I made the mistake of asking for referrals to good science fiction and fantasy for Teens of Color.
Oh my goodness! There was some not-nice comments and one person even accused me of wanting NO White characters at all.
Wahhhht?
Are you kidding me? Are people really that threatened, that they can't share the future with Teens of Color? That all protagonists must be the traditional, stereotypical, White male hero? Really? REALLY?
So amid encouraging private messages and referrals from fellow writers, educators and parents, I took the info and started a website featuring short book reviews of science fiction and fantasy books with protagonists of Color. It's going to take a lot of work, but I've gotten a lot done already and went live because, well, I could work on it forever and it'll never be finished.
Alien Star Books, www.alienstarbooks.com, is all about reading!! I'm reading and reviewing as fast as I can so I can get short reviews of the books up ASAP. Next to the reviews, I have the book cover images that are also links to Amazon. (In the interests of disclosure, I DO get a couple of nickels if you order using my links.)
And before anyone goes off about the focus of the website, yes, there is an "Everybody Else" page that features good sci-fi/fantasy with protagonists that might be a clone, disabled, female, genderless, Gay or Lesbian or White. Why? Because my purpose is to INCLUDE, not exclude good books that are appropriate for teens and young adults, featuring characters that they can relate to. So yes, that includes Tolkien and Asimov and Bradley and Norton and all the other classic works.
I'd like to invite you to submit referrals to science fiction and fantasy books, including your own published works. But be warned, I will review the book and I reserve the right to speak my mind...
Oh my goodness! There was some not-nice comments and one person even accused me of wanting NO White characters at all.
Wahhhht?
Are you kidding me? Are people really that threatened, that they can't share the future with Teens of Color? That all protagonists must be the traditional, stereotypical, White male hero? Really? REALLY?
So amid encouraging private messages and referrals from fellow writers, educators and parents, I took the info and started a website featuring short book reviews of science fiction and fantasy books with protagonists of Color. It's going to take a lot of work, but I've gotten a lot done already and went live because, well, I could work on it forever and it'll never be finished.
Alien Star Books, www.alienstarbooks.com, is all about reading!! I'm reading and reviewing as fast as I can so I can get short reviews of the books up ASAP. Next to the reviews, I have the book cover images that are also links to Amazon. (In the interests of disclosure, I DO get a couple of nickels if you order using my links.)
And before anyone goes off about the focus of the website, yes, there is an "Everybody Else" page that features good sci-fi/fantasy with protagonists that might be a clone, disabled, female, genderless, Gay or Lesbian or White. Why? Because my purpose is to INCLUDE, not exclude good books that are appropriate for teens and young adults, featuring characters that they can relate to. So yes, that includes Tolkien and Asimov and Bradley and Norton and all the other classic works.
I'd like to invite you to submit referrals to science fiction and fantasy books, including your own published works. But be warned, I will review the book and I reserve the right to speak my mind...
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Incredible Cubes in France
These are incredible! I'd love to have one in my backyard as a guest house, or an office. Very cool concept and implementation!
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Frederik Pohl's Rules for Writing
1. Write every day. Yes, that means that you must write 365 days a year. No excuses.
2. Write 600 words a day. If it takes you 45 minutes, fine. You are done for the day. If it takes you 18 hours, fine. That's how long your writing required that day.
3. Finish every piece you start. That way, you never fail as a writer since a writer's only real failure is the abandoned piece.
----------
I got this from Writer's Delight blog and it sure resonates!
If you write every single day, you'll have that story finished pretty darn quickly. 600 words multiplied by 30 days is 18,000 words. So in two months, you'll have at least 36,000 words on paper. That's a novella already! In six months, you'll have 108,000 words -- a novel!
And to think, you started your novel with only 600 words a day...
(Note: In general, under 80,000 words is a novella or juvenile fiction and over 80,000 is a novel. Traditional publishers like seeing novels between 80,000 and 120,000 words. However, you should write until the story is done, then worry about word counts!)
2. Write 600 words a day. If it takes you 45 minutes, fine. You are done for the day. If it takes you 18 hours, fine. That's how long your writing required that day.
3. Finish every piece you start. That way, you never fail as a writer since a writer's only real failure is the abandoned piece.
----------
I got this from Writer's Delight blog and it sure resonates!
If you write every single day, you'll have that story finished pretty darn quickly. 600 words multiplied by 30 days is 18,000 words. So in two months, you'll have at least 36,000 words on paper. That's a novella already! In six months, you'll have 108,000 words -- a novel!
And to think, you started your novel with only 600 words a day...
(Note: In general, under 80,000 words is a novella or juvenile fiction and over 80,000 is a novel. Traditional publishers like seeing novels between 80,000 and 120,000 words. However, you should write until the story is done, then worry about word counts!)
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Making A Few Nickels While Posting Online
Now, I'm not going to pretend that you make a lot of money posting to forums. It's basically pennies per post and to do well, you must write good posts. That means more than one sentence and sharing relevant information and/or opinions in a well organized and well written manner.
Having said that, if you're the kind of person who spends a lot of time online and "talking" in forums, why not get paid for it?
I'm hooked up with PostLoop. If you're interested, hey, I wouldn't mind if you used my link so I could make an extra nickel now and again: http://www.postloop.com/invite/RuthDJ.
There are a number of forums hooked up with PostLoop and a significant amount of activity, so you can select topics that interest you and have some lively discussions. It's actually a nice break from your regular writing routine and a better use of your "spare" time than Facebook or craigslist!
And hey, thanks for looking!
Having said that, if you're the kind of person who spends a lot of time online and "talking" in forums, why not get paid for it?
I'm hooked up with PostLoop. If you're interested, hey, I wouldn't mind if you used my link so I could make an extra nickel now and again: http://www.postloop.com/invite/RuthDJ.
There are a number of forums hooked up with PostLoop and a significant amount of activity, so you can select topics that interest you and have some lively discussions. It's actually a nice break from your regular writing routine and a better use of your "spare" time than Facebook or craigslist!
And hey, thanks for looking!
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Winter Classic 2011 in San Jose, CA
Our first ice hockey tournament. It was a good experience.
I took snippets of video with my Blackberry and this is what my son put together.
Yes, he's the goalie!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
The Hobbit Is Coming!
Oh my gosh, I am so excited!
I still have to wait a year to see The Hobbit, but it's finally on its way to us.
I can hardly wait, if the film is half as good as the trailer, it's going to be 100 times better than the garbage that the studios put out 99% of the time!
Check it out!
I still have to wait a year to see The Hobbit, but it's finally on its way to us.
I can hardly wait, if the film is half as good as the trailer, it's going to be 100 times better than the garbage that the studios put out 99% of the time!
Check it out!
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
"Voodoo Macbeth"
My friend's grandmother, Ethel Johnson-Drayton, was in this play. She was one of the witches, freeze the frame at about 3:15 or so and you can see her pretty clearly.
Her husband was a well-known jazz dancer, Thaddeus Drayton.
"Voodoo Macbeth":
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/fedtp/ftsmth00.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voodoo_Macbeth
http://www.johncoulthart.com/feuilleton/2006/10/17/voodoo-macbeth/
http://deeperintomovies.net/journal/archives/4065
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/jul25.html
Thaddeus Drayton:
http://www.streetswing.com/histmai2/d2greenlee-drayton.htm
http://atdf.org/awards/ClassAct.html
http://books.google.com/books?id=WXrzH6mz4cMC&pg=PA111&lpg=PA111&dq=Thaddeus+Drayton+dancer&source=bl&ots=GthoNJ9O5b&sig=eRzk1q5oBS0K51VtnT6JYOsunnc&hl=en&sa=X&ei=yrbwTr_yA63TiAKxo5iPDg&sqi=2&ved=0CDkQ6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=Thaddeus%20Drayton%20dancer&f=false
http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2306&dat=19150612&id=l6knAAAAIBAJ&sjid=lAQGAAAAIBAJ&pg=4918,5233808
Her husband was a well-known jazz dancer, Thaddeus Drayton.
"Voodoo Macbeth":
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/fedtp/ftsmth00.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Voodoo_Macbeth
http://www.johncoulthart.com/feuilleton/2006/10/17/voodoo-macbeth/
http://deeperintomovies.net/journal/archives/4065
http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/today/jul25.html
Thaddeus Drayton:
http://www.streetswing.com/histmai2/d2greenlee-drayton.htm
http://atdf.org/awards/ClassAct.html
http://books.google.com/books?id=WXrzH6mz4cMC&pg=PA111&lpg=PA111&dq=Thaddeus+Drayton+dancer&source=bl&ots=GthoNJ9O5b&sig=eRzk1q5oBS0K51VtnT6JYOsunnc&hl=en&sa=X&ei=yrbwTr_yA63TiAKxo5iPDg&sqi=2&ved=0CDkQ6AEwBA#v=onepage&q=Thaddeus%20Drayton%20dancer&f=false
http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=2306&dat=19150612&id=l6knAAAAIBAJ&sjid=lAQGAAAAIBAJ&pg=4918,5233808
Monday, October 31, 2011
A New Beginning
Well, except for being short on cash, I'm enjoying our new beginning. I have so much to do here and I've GOT to get finished moving so I can stop going to California every couple of weeks.
Oh, yes, I'll be back in Cali. In fact, I'll be in San Jose the week between Christmas and New Years. But running back and forth is killing my budget. I need to be able to settle down and just work for a few weeks to generate more income.
Anyway, this move is a good thing for all of us.
I love the house, I wish it were mine. There's a lot of things I'd do to fix it up. But the best part is the property. This is the view from my kitchen window.
Note the burn barrel in the yard! Yes, I'm not in Cali any more!
Oh, yes, I'll be back in Cali. In fact, I'll be in San Jose the week between Christmas and New Years. But running back and forth is killing my budget. I need to be able to settle down and just work for a few weeks to generate more income.
Anyway, this move is a good thing for all of us.
I love the house, I wish it were mine. There's a lot of things I'd do to fix it up. But the best part is the property. This is the view from my kitchen window.
Note the burn barrel in the yard! Yes, I'm not in Cali any more!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
RIP Josh
I can't explain why bad things happen to good people.
Josh, you were one of the good kids. We will all miss you terribly, until the day comes that we all go Home. You were taken before your time by a murderer, you and your cousin.
Rest in Peace dear young man. Rest in Peace.
Josh, you were one of the good kids. We will all miss you terribly, until the day comes that we all go Home. You were taken before your time by a murderer, you and your cousin.
Rest in Peace dear young man. Rest in Peace.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
The North Bay Stand Down in Dixon, CA
Yes, Stand Down started today and I'm not there. I have moved to Oregon to begin my "retired" life.
LOL! Retired? Yeah, right. Now I'm self-employed so you know I'm busting behind, writing online content, researching new revenue streams AND still trying to get organized.
I'm only retired from Gov't work. My real work continues...
In the meantime, it's not too late to head over to Dixon to volunteer at the Stand Down. They still need YOU to help tomorrow and on Thursday and Friday with closing down and the massive clean-up job. We always need more volunteers to clean the grounds, take out the trash, mop the floors and do a complete scrub-down in the kitchen.
LOL! Retired? Yeah, right. Now I'm self-employed so you know I'm busting behind, writing online content, researching new revenue streams AND still trying to get organized.
I'm only retired from Gov't work. My real work continues...
In the meantime, it's not too late to head over to Dixon to volunteer at the Stand Down. They still need YOU to help tomorrow and on Thursday and Friday with closing down and the massive clean-up job. We always need more volunteers to clean the grounds, take out the trash, mop the floors and do a complete scrub-down in the kitchen.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
I Am Moving!
Yes, I'm getting ready to move out of state.
It's not easy, but I'm going to do it. I'm a Cali kid, born and raised, so this is going to be a big change.
Well, ok, a change. I'm only moving about 30 miles outside the state, so there's plenty of California people already there. In fact, some of my old co-workers beat me there.
I'm moving closer to family, to a cheaper area, where there's ice hockey at high school level.
So, gotta run! Only another 7 or 8 bookcases to pack. And the rest of my liquor bottle collection. And the California Raisins.
And more, much, much more...
It's not easy, but I'm going to do it. I'm a Cali kid, born and raised, so this is going to be a big change.
Well, ok, a change. I'm only moving about 30 miles outside the state, so there's plenty of California people already there. In fact, some of my old co-workers beat me there.
I'm moving closer to family, to a cheaper area, where there's ice hockey at high school level.
So, gotta run! Only another 7 or 8 bookcases to pack. And the rest of my liquor bottle collection. And the California Raisins.
And more, much, much more...
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Martha Stewart Wedding!
Yes!
My oldest son, the professional photographer, and his wife shot a wedding in Bali last year and it made it to Martha Stewart Weddings!
Wow!
And check out the next to the last image -- awesome!
The Wedding
My oldest son, the professional photographer, and his wife shot a wedding in Bali last year and it made it to Martha Stewart Weddings!
Wow!
And check out the next to the last image -- awesome!
The Wedding
Saturday, May 7, 2011
The First Week
Well the first week of retirement still feels like a week of Fridays (I used to have every other Friday off). Every day I get up, get a kid off to school, then come back and attempt to write.
I say attempt because my daughter is in the process of moving out! We spent all day yesterday painting the tiny little duplex she's renting (yes, Mom has been bleeding money) and have to go back to finish painting all the trim and the kitchen dining area. I must say that she's doing a good job -- of course I'm following along and touching up.
But, but, but, curses upon whoever used FLAT paint on the window and door trims. And it's a horrible almost brownish beige that looks like they mixed it with whatever was lying around that day. What the heck were they thinking? It's going to take at least two coats of a good semi-gloss to cover that mess. Maybe three. AND they painted the doors that color too!! I may need another can of cream-colored paint...
So, my little singer is also a decorator. The bathroom, a lovely shade of light grey with hints of lilac. Looks great with the grey floor and tiles. The bedroom is orchid. Gorgeous. And the living room is "Homemade Butterscotch". A little dark, hope the landlord doesn't have a cow, but beautiful. It will look fabulous with her leopard print sofa and chair!
She is incredibly excited, as she should be. Her first place and it's not even an apartment and relatively cheap, only about $100 more than a studio would be. Not too shabby.
I really should take pictures...
I say attempt because my daughter is in the process of moving out! We spent all day yesterday painting the tiny little duplex she's renting (yes, Mom has been bleeding money) and have to go back to finish painting all the trim and the kitchen dining area. I must say that she's doing a good job -- of course I'm following along and touching up.
But, but, but, curses upon whoever used FLAT paint on the window and door trims. And it's a horrible almost brownish beige that looks like they mixed it with whatever was lying around that day. What the heck were they thinking? It's going to take at least two coats of a good semi-gloss to cover that mess. Maybe three. AND they painted the doors that color too!! I may need another can of cream-colored paint...
So, my little singer is also a decorator. The bathroom, a lovely shade of light grey with hints of lilac. Looks great with the grey floor and tiles. The bedroom is orchid. Gorgeous. And the living room is "Homemade Butterscotch". A little dark, hope the landlord doesn't have a cow, but beautiful. It will look fabulous with her leopard print sofa and chair!
She is incredibly excited, as she should be. Her first place and it's not even an apartment and relatively cheap, only about $100 more than a studio would be. Not too shabby.
I really should take pictures...
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Retirement - Here I Come!!
I'm both excited and nervous! Only four more working days and I'm officially retired.
Well, retired from THAT job!
I am returning to my other career, as an artist and writer.
I have so much to do!
Well, retired from THAT job!
I am returning to my other career, as an artist and writer.
I have so much to do!
Sunday, March 20, 2011
The New Mercy Thompson - River Marked
Oh my gosh that was good! I read it cover to cover last night and it was great!
Now, some reviewers complained because a lot of the book was just Mercy and Adam. But (no spoilers here), it was freaking awesome and took some twists and turns that will just blow your mind.
Once again, Patricia Briggs has given us an awesome urban fantasy, complete with fae, werewolf and coyote.
This is a must read for the urban fantasy fan. But start with the first book, Moon Called, don't start in the middle of the series. (I HATE it when I find a book I like and realize I've started in the middle. Then I have to hunt down all the rest of the books...)
On a side note: I have a question - How old is Bran? Really, I'm serious. If Asil is 1300 years old and Bran is older, just how old are Bran and his oldest son Samuel? I'd like to see some more info in future books, either the Alpha and Omega series or in Mercy's series.
Now, some reviewers complained because a lot of the book was just Mercy and Adam. But (no spoilers here), it was freaking awesome and took some twists and turns that will just blow your mind.
Once again, Patricia Briggs has given us an awesome urban fantasy, complete with fae, werewolf and coyote.
This is a must read for the urban fantasy fan. But start with the first book, Moon Called, don't start in the middle of the series. (I HATE it when I find a book I like and realize I've started in the middle. Then I have to hunt down all the rest of the books...)
On a side note: I have a question - How old is Bran? Really, I'm serious. If Asil is 1300 years old and Bran is older, just how old are Bran and his oldest son Samuel? I'd like to see some more info in future books, either the Alpha and Omega series or in Mercy's series.
The West Coast Blues Awards
Sunday – March 27, 2011
6:00 to 10:00 pm
HILTON OAKLAND AIRPORT
Grand Ball Room
One Hegenberger Rd, Oakland, CA 94621
This years show will induct notables as Buddy Guy, Jimi Hendrix, David "Honeyboy" Edwards, Winton Marsalis, Lonnie Brooks, Lester Chambers (Chamber Brothers), Ben Hodges (Flamingos), Minor Ellis Williams III, Barbara Taylor, Chuck Johnson (Soul Beat), Patrick Brock, Bonnie Simon, Bruno Brunecker, Church of John Coltrain and Arch Bishop Franzo King,
Eddie Wilson, Henry Dalton Williams, Phil Givant and Johnny Winter.
Bob Geddins Lifetime Achievement Awarded to Vivian Waldrup-Patterson and Julie C. Paisant
TICKETS; $30 in advance; $35 at the door
Purchase tickets at:
Highsierratickets.com
Award Winner List
West Coast Blues Hall of Fame Press Release
We are planning on being there, the Leonard Lothlen Gospel Band is receiving an award and are scheduled to perform. Way awesome!
6:00 to 10:00 pm
HILTON OAKLAND AIRPORT
Grand Ball Room
One Hegenberger Rd, Oakland, CA 94621
This years show will induct notables as Buddy Guy, Jimi Hendrix, David "Honeyboy" Edwards, Winton Marsalis, Lonnie Brooks, Lester Chambers (Chamber Brothers), Ben Hodges (Flamingos), Minor Ellis Williams III, Barbara Taylor, Chuck Johnson (Soul Beat), Patrick Brock, Bonnie Simon, Bruno Brunecker, Church of John Coltrain and Arch Bishop Franzo King,
Eddie Wilson, Henry Dalton Williams, Phil Givant and Johnny Winter.
Bob Geddins Lifetime Achievement Awarded to Vivian Waldrup-Patterson and Julie C. Paisant
TICKETS; $30 in advance; $35 at the door
Purchase tickets at:
Highsierratickets.com
Award Winner List
West Coast Blues Hall of Fame Press Release
We are planning on being there, the Leonard Lothlen Gospel Band is receiving an award and are scheduled to perform. Way awesome!
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Despicable Me
My daughter and I just watched "Despicable Me."
What a cute and clever movie! I really enjoyed it.
It was a fun take on the classic villain/hero cartoon. I would highly recommend it.
Here's a trailer, check it out!
What a cute and clever movie! I really enjoyed it.
It was a fun take on the classic villain/hero cartoon. I would highly recommend it.
Here's a trailer, check it out!
Saturday, December 11, 2010
A Late Night In Oakland
A late night for me, but wow! Well worth it!
Of course, that 5:30am wake-up call (that actually ended up being 6:30am because I overslept -- OOPS!) wasn't easy, but we got to the hockey tournament in Antioch on time.
Of course, that 5:30am wake-up call (that actually ended up being 6:30am because I overslept -- OOPS!) wasn't easy, but we got to the hockey tournament in Antioch on time.
As I've said before, my little wannabe video camera isn't the best, but it works...
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Hockey
Hockey.
Hockey.
We seem to live and breathe hockey at my house. I rarely have much time to myself, I work, take kid to hockey, go with other (grown) kid to performances, and then I work some more.
Hockey.
Gospel.
Music.
More hockey.
I don't regret this though. My kids will all be grown, just like my oldest, and leading their own lives soon enough. They all grow up way too fast. Way too fast.
Hockey.
We seem to live and breathe hockey at my house. I rarely have much time to myself, I work, take kid to hockey, go with other (grown) kid to performances, and then I work some more.
Hockey.
Gospel.
Music.
More hockey.
I don't regret this though. My kids will all be grown, just like my oldest, and leading their own lives soon enough. They all grow up way too fast. Way too fast.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Native American Music Awards
THE 12th ANNUAL NATIVE AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2010
SENECA NIAGARA HOTEL & CASINO
NIAGARA FALLS, NY
http://www.nativeamericanmusicawards.com/home.cfm
I wish I could be there. Check out the website.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 2010
SENECA NIAGARA HOTEL & CASINO
NIAGARA FALLS, NY
http://www.nativeamericanmusicawards.com/home.cfm
I wish I could be there. Check out the website.
I'm So Excited!
My daughter did some background work recently and the artist was very happy with it. So she's going to be on an album.
OK, OK, I know, they're CDs now.
I can't say more than that right now. As soon as the CD comes out, I'll post all the details and which track she's on.
Background work is the bread and butter of the vocalist. Luther Vandross, God rest his soul, was a background singer for years before his breakthrough.
Anyway, it's a good start for her. Here we go...
OK, OK, I know, they're CDs now.
I can't say more than that right now. As soon as the CD comes out, I'll post all the details and which track she's on.
Background work is the bread and butter of the vocalist. Luther Vandross, God rest his soul, was a background singer for years before his breakthrough.
Anyway, it's a good start for her. Here we go...
Thursday, September 30, 2010
My Novel Is Moving Along
Slowly, very slowly.
I've been writing it, little by little, but I'm sure it's going to be more than one volume at this point. The chapters are flowing but I just write them, they'll be rearranged and put in proper order, tied together in the editing.
It's taking a very interesting turn, I didn't know it was going in that direction until the words were flowing out onto the keyboard. Wow. Just wow.
I have a sample chapter on my website www.ruthdj.com, but it's very much the first draft so, well, I dunno.
I've already written the ending, but there's a whole lot of travel between the beginning and the end. I feel like I've just put my feet on the road...
I've been writing it, little by little, but I'm sure it's going to be more than one volume at this point. The chapters are flowing but I just write them, they'll be rearranged and put in proper order, tied together in the editing.
It's taking a very interesting turn, I didn't know it was going in that direction until the words were flowing out onto the keyboard. Wow. Just wow.
I have a sample chapter on my website www.ruthdj.com, but it's very much the first draft so, well, I dunno.
I've already written the ending, but there's a whole lot of travel between the beginning and the end. I feel like I've just put my feet on the road...
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Genealogy Stuff
Mom said it was OK to post these images, in the hope that they'll be of help to other families looking for information on their ancestors.
1909, Christmas Dinner at Fort Assinniboine, Montana
"L" Company, 2nd U.S. Infantry
1910 Thanksgiving dinner
This menu was very fragile so we didn't try to get it entirely flat on the scanner. It is also too large for the borders to show.
Names:
1909 Christmas
Captain Chas. (probably Charles) S. Lincoln
1st Lt Geo. E. Kumpe
2nd Lt F. A. Barker
1st Sgt Orin H. Rigley
Q.M. Sgt Harry J. Burns
Sargents
Rother McCoy
Michael Andes
Wallis Brumby
Corporals
William J. Smith
John W. Rock
Tilden Ingle
Jack J. Evans
John W. Grey
Patrick Hassen
Cooks
Edward LaTaine
Henry H. Barnes
Musicians
Herbert Hammaker
Anthony J. Lukomsk (Lukomski)
Artificer
William T. Whitteker
Privates
Achenbach
Anglin
Antek, Stefan
Bush, Frederick
Capps, Lester R.
Carson, Ray (Corson, Ray)
Collins
Conner, Fred L.
Cooper, G. L.
Cooper, J. F.
Coyle, Edward
Duffy, Thomas J.
Fletcher, James
Goneau, John A.
Hall, Scott
Hammer, Clarence A.
Hilliard, Harry W.
Hillman, John G.
Himanka, Sam
Hoover
Hudson, Jesse J.
Jones, Ellis M.
Kastner, Reinhold
Kemp, Earl E.
Lantinen, Otto
Mailhoit
Manry, Eugene A.
Matloho
McCauley
McHugh, Patrick J.
Miles, Delmus
Moulton, Charles E.
Parsons, Charles A.
Pate. Marcelles
Polk, Willie
Sanford, Otis E.
Schulze
Schwarz, Edward H.
Vincent
Wilks
Wolfeil
Wells, Estell
Added names at Thankgiving 1910
Sgt Martin L. McGaha
Sgt Martin Brogan
Sgt Eli J. Wells
Corporal James Wilkins
L. Corporal O'Brien
Musician Paul Matloha
Privates
Cooper, Charles S.
Cooper, Giles L.
Corson, Ray
Cummins, Alva T.
Evans, Jack J.
Gillman, William
???, Harry (in the fold, can't read it)
Milligan, James J.
Stewart, Alfred E.
1909, Christmas Dinner at Fort Assinniboine, Montana
"L" Company, 2nd U.S. Infantry
1910 Thanksgiving dinner
This menu was very fragile so we didn't try to get it entirely flat on the scanner. It is also too large for the borders to show.
Names:
1909 Christmas
Captain Chas. (probably Charles) S. Lincoln
1st Lt Geo. E. Kumpe
2nd Lt F. A. Barker
1st Sgt Orin H. Rigley
Q.M. Sgt Harry J. Burns
Sargents
Rother McCoy
Michael Andes
Wallis Brumby
Corporals
William J. Smith
John W. Rock
Tilden Ingle
Jack J. Evans
John W. Grey
Patrick Hassen
Cooks
Edward LaTaine
Henry H. Barnes
Musicians
Herbert Hammaker
Anthony J. Lukomsk (Lukomski)
Artificer
William T. Whitteker
Privates
Achenbach
Anglin
Antek, Stefan
Bush, Frederick
Capps, Lester R.
Carson, Ray (Corson, Ray)
Collins
Conner, Fred L.
Cooper, G. L.
Cooper, J. F.
Coyle, Edward
Duffy, Thomas J.
Fletcher, James
Goneau, John A.
Hall, Scott
Hammer, Clarence A.
Hilliard, Harry W.
Hillman, John G.
Himanka, Sam
Hoover
Hudson, Jesse J.
Jones, Ellis M.
Kastner, Reinhold
Kemp, Earl E.
Lantinen, Otto
Mailhoit
Manry, Eugene A.
Matloho
McCauley
McHugh, Patrick J.
Miles, Delmus
Moulton, Charles E.
Parsons, Charles A.
Pate. Marcelles
Polk, Willie
Sanford, Otis E.
Schulze
Schwarz, Edward H.
Vincent
Wilks
Wolfeil
Wells, Estell
Added names at Thankgiving 1910
Sgt Martin L. McGaha
Sgt Martin Brogan
Sgt Eli J. Wells
Corporal James Wilkins
L. Corporal O'Brien
Musician Paul Matloha
Privates
Cooper, Charles S.
Cooper, Giles L.
Corson, Ray
Cummins, Alva T.
Evans, Jack J.
Gillman, William
???, Harry (in the fold, can't read it)
Milligan, James J.
Stewart, Alfred E.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Dreyer's® Fruit Bars: Where Will You Plant Your Vote?
Dreyer's® Fruit Bars: Where Will You Plant Your Vote?
Who should win the orchard?
This is a simple way to support a tribe. I voted for the Yurok Tribe in Hoopa, CA.
Who will you vote for?
Who should win the orchard?
This is a simple way to support a tribe. I voted for the Yurok Tribe in Hoopa, CA.
Who will you vote for?
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
My Friend Published An eBook!
My fellow hockey parent has published an eBook.
I really thought I should share his information and website because he has 15 years of experience in the field -- executive recruitment.
Yes, he's one of those guys that got your boss that great job with awesome pay!
Anyway, he decided to write an eBook and share his expertise with us. With his tips, your resume will stand out from the crowd, you'll shine at your interview, and you'll know exactly what to say to the dreaded question, "Tell me about your strengths and weaknesses." (ARGGHHHHH -- actually, mine are the same, I'm articulate, strong, strong-willed, tenatious, and stubborn. Good when you have to bull on through a project. Not so good when the boss is wrong and I know I'm right... LOL!)
Insider Interview Secrets by Steve Schwartz http://www.insiderinterviewsecrets.com/ -- check it out!
I really thought I should share his information and website because he has 15 years of experience in the field -- executive recruitment.
Yes, he's one of those guys that got your boss that great job with awesome pay!
Anyway, he decided to write an eBook and share his expertise with us. With his tips, your resume will stand out from the crowd, you'll shine at your interview, and you'll know exactly what to say to the dreaded question, "Tell me about your strengths and weaknesses." (ARGGHHHHH -- actually, mine are the same, I'm articulate, strong, strong-willed, tenatious, and stubborn. Good when you have to bull on through a project. Not so good when the boss is wrong and I know I'm right... LOL!)
Insider Interview Secrets by Steve Schwartz http://www.insiderinterviewsecrets.com/ -- check it out!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
The National Anthem at Roseville Speedway
Check her out!
Yes, yes, I know it's not a great camera, but check her out!!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Silver Borne Is Out!
Yayyyy!
The latest Mercy Thompson novel, Silver Borne, by Patricia Briggs is out! I actually pre-ordered it from Amazon, something I never do.
No spoilers here, let me just tell you that it's awesome.
If you haven't read these books yet, start with the first, Moon Called. It's 100 times better than the Twilight series (which are romance pap disguised as urban fantasy in my most biased opinion).
If you like urban fantasy, you'll love Mercy Thompson!
The latest Mercy Thompson novel, Silver Borne, by Patricia Briggs is out! I actually pre-ordered it from Amazon, something I never do.
No spoilers here, let me just tell you that it's awesome.
If you haven't read these books yet, start with the first, Moon Called. It's 100 times better than the Twilight series (which are romance pap disguised as urban fantasy in my most biased opinion).
If you like urban fantasy, you'll love Mercy Thompson!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Slideshow: Watch It! (Or Not) - Photos - KCRA Sacramento
Slideshow: Watch It! (Or Not) - Photos - KCRA Sacramento
Oh my goodness, talk about POOR sportsmanship!
Oh my goodness, talk about POOR sportsmanship!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Juan Antonio de Jauregui Went Home
Uncle Tony went home to be with the Lord. I haven't seen him in many years, but I will always keep him in my heart as the happy, fun loving guy at the de Jauregui family events.
RIP Uncle Tony.
May all the family be comforted in their sorrow on this sad day.
RIP Uncle Tony.
May all the family be comforted in their sorrow on this sad day.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit
This is actually more a book for an older child or young adult about author Judith Kerr's experiences as a child, fleeing Germany with her parents just ahead of Hitler's election in 1933.
It was fascinating.
Viewing the rise of Hitler and the dangers she and her family faced as they got out of Germany just in time, their travels as refugees from Germany to Switzerland to Paris and on to London was riveting.
I highly recommend this little book for older children, young adults and adults who are interested in the rise of Hitler and the beginnings of World War II.
As I looked for some bio information for this post, I found that she wrote not just When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit, but two other books about her life. I'm going to locate and read them as well as her children's books.
Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judith_Kerr
http://www.librarything.com/work/56664
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/article4957133.ece
http://www.jacketflap.com/persondetail.asp?person=82028
It was fascinating.
Viewing the rise of Hitler and the dangers she and her family faced as they got out of Germany just in time, their travels as refugees from Germany to Switzerland to Paris and on to London was riveting.
I highly recommend this little book for older children, young adults and adults who are interested in the rise of Hitler and the beginnings of World War II.
As I looked for some bio information for this post, I found that she wrote not just When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit, but two other books about her life. I'm going to locate and read them as well as her children's books.
Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judith_Kerr
http://www.librarything.com/work/56664
http://entertainment.timesonline.co.uk/tol/arts_and_entertainment/books/article4957133.ece
http://www.jacketflap.com/persondetail.asp?person=82028
Friday, January 22, 2010
UP -- A Great Addition To Your Video Library
We recently rented "UP".
I really enjoyed this movie. It was simple enough for the kids to enjoy, and subtly complex enough to satisfy me. The animation was awesome and the story line moved right along.
The official website: http://adisney.go.com/disneyvideos/animatedfilms/up/main.html#/epk/about/
Another great from Pixar, I HIGHLY recommend it.
I really enjoyed this movie. It was simple enough for the kids to enjoy, and subtly complex enough to satisfy me. The animation was awesome and the story line moved right along.
The official website: http://adisney.go.com/disneyvideos/animatedfilms/up/main.html#/epk/about/
Another great from Pixar, I HIGHLY recommend it.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Back From The Holidays!
Oh my goodness, there is so much to do in this New Year.
Now that I'm back from the holidays, I have to get busy. I have writing to do (yes, I'll be taking my little QuickPad with me to hockey later so I can get some writing in while my son practices), I have boxes to go through and sort into sell-keep-donate-toss, I have yard work and clean up to do, oh my goodness, there is much to do in the New Year.
I'm going to have to allocate my time and money better, so I can do everything I want to do.
However, it's a nasty foggy day today, and I'm resting up from an 8 hour drive home yesterday, so just for now, I'll write a little, wash a few clothes, rest up for the start of my work week.
Back from the holidays and lots to do...
Now that I'm back from the holidays, I have to get busy. I have writing to do (yes, I'll be taking my little QuickPad with me to hockey later so I can get some writing in while my son practices), I have boxes to go through and sort into sell-keep-donate-toss, I have yard work and clean up to do, oh my goodness, there is much to do in the New Year.
I'm going to have to allocate my time and money better, so I can do everything I want to do.
However, it's a nasty foggy day today, and I'm resting up from an 8 hour drive home yesterday, so just for now, I'll write a little, wash a few clothes, rest up for the start of my work week.
Back from the holidays and lots to do...
Sunday, December 20, 2009
A Page A Day
I was over checking out another writer's blog, Writer's Delight and saw this great quote:
A page a day is a book a year. Listen to that again: A page a day is a book a year
- Richard Rhodes, Pulitzer Prize Winner
He's right you know. A page a day will in fact add up to a book in a year. It gives me something to aspire to. I can't always write a page a day, but if I can do a couple of pages every other day, it adds up quickly...
Link:
http://writerspak.blogspot.com/2009/12/extra-writing-dividends-from-research.html#comment-form
A page a day is a book a year. Listen to that again: A page a day is a book a year
- Richard Rhodes, Pulitzer Prize Winner
He's right you know. A page a day will in fact add up to a book in a year. It gives me something to aspire to. I can't always write a page a day, but if I can do a couple of pages every other day, it adds up quickly...
Link:
http://writerspak.blogspot.com/2009/12/extra-writing-dividends-from-research.html#comment-form
Saturday, December 12, 2009
A Good News Website!
I stumbled over this website this morning and realized what a great idea it is!
The news can be so darn depressing, all about crime, poverty, sad stories and negativity. However, if you just can't take another sad tale, you can go to http://niceone.aol.com/ and check out some happy stories.
It's a nice change from the day-to-day drama.
The news can be so darn depressing, all about crime, poverty, sad stories and negativity. However, if you just can't take another sad tale, you can go to http://niceone.aol.com/ and check out some happy stories.
It's a nice change from the day-to-day drama.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Be Thankful On This Day
Today is a day to share, with family and friends and neighbors. A day to be thankful for the blessings that we've been granted in the past year -- and those in the year to come.
The turkey is in the smoker. Giblets are simmering on the stove. Soon I'll make some apple pies to go with the pumpkin and sweet potato pies I've already made. And a pea salad to go with the huge potluck.
We'll celebrate with our neighbors this year, while my parents and family in Oregon celebrate at my sister and brother-in-law's new house. (It's FINALLY ready for company!)
We will be thankful.
Tomorrow is soon enough to worry about bills and jobs and money and all the troubles of the world.
Today, well, we will be thankful on this day.
The turkey is in the smoker. Giblets are simmering on the stove. Soon I'll make some apple pies to go with the pumpkin and sweet potato pies I've already made. And a pea salad to go with the huge potluck.
We'll celebrate with our neighbors this year, while my parents and family in Oregon celebrate at my sister and brother-in-law's new house. (It's FINALLY ready for company!)
We will be thankful.
Tomorrow is soon enough to worry about bills and jobs and money and all the troubles of the world.
Today, well, we will be thankful on this day.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
Saturday, October 17, 2009
It's Been Twenty Years???
Has it really been twenty years since the Loma Prieta earthquake?
Really?
I will never, ever forget that day.
I worked in San Francisco and had just left the office. Walking down the street, I suddenly felt light-headed, reeling, like I was going to faint.
Then the next ripple of the earth pushed me in the opposite direction and I realized that I wasn't having a fainting spell, it was an earthquake!
My first thought was "Oh, no, not today!"
I looked around and saw dust and pebbles coming off the tall buildings surrounding me on Pine Street. My instinct was to get undercover, but there was no place to hide. I was too far from the lobby to run back to my office. So I stepped quickly over to the nearest building, squatted down against the wall and put my briefcase over my head.
The shaking went on forever. (Amazing what adrenaline will do to your perception of time!)
Finally, the shaking stopped.
I got up and ran back to my building, 111 Pine, and into the lobby. It was crowded. I waited and finally my co-workers came out of the stairwell.
I think we were all a bit shockey. They told me that upstairs it was bad. The file cabinets were all over, the contents were a mess.
We all waited a while and then finally decided that we should start making our way home. By then we'd figured out there was no power, little phone service, and something really, really bad had happened.
I went into the basement where there was a working pay phone. I needed to call home and see if my son was OK. The line was long.
Finally, I got to the front of the line and punched in my calling card info. At first, I couldn't get through, but by alternating my home phone and my parents' phone in Downey, California, I finally got through to my son in Fairfield. He said my parents had already called, so I told him to call them back and tell them that I was OK. And that I love him very much.
Once I got off the phone, I knew that it would be a while before I could get out of San Francisco. Since my dad was CalTrans, I knew that they'd check all the bridges and overpasses and that it could be a good while before the roads were fully open. I had driven in that day by myself, so at least I didn't have to worry about my vanpool van. They were on their own.
I walked around for a little while, taking snapshots of some of the damage and when it started getting dark, I saw that the traffic (which had been at a standstill) was finally moving a little.
I walked to my truck, parked under the Embarcadero Freeway, and got ready to try to make my way home. I turned on the CB radio and oh my goodness, was I surprised! Up to this point, I had no idea that the Bay Bridge was broken.
I gathered myself and started listening and asking questions. The best way out appeared to be over the Golden Gate Bridge, so I started working my way across town.
I'll never forget how the lights were all out. The young businessman, coat open and tie askew, beer bottle in one hand and directing traffic through the intersection with the other. The people walking up, away from the Financial District, or down, toward the Ferry Building, trying to get home.
The CB kept chattering and I was talking to others who lived out in the far East Bay. I wasn't the only one trying to get to the Golden Gate. In addition, there was fire in the Marina. A huge fire and buildings that had collapsed, people still inside. Fire and rescue efforts were blocking the main streets so I knew I couldn't go through the Marina.
Thanks to my CB buddies, I knew that Lombard was absolutely packed with cars trying to get out of the city, so I went up another couple of blocks. I THINK it was Filbert that I drove down (OK guys, it was 20 years ago!) paralleling Lombard. Even that far away from the Marina, I could see the flames and light of the fire in the night sky.
I made good time until I had to cut right to get onto Lombard/Richardson. Then it was just bumper to bumper crawling all the way to and over the Golden Gate.
I did finally make it to Highway 37 and from there it was dark, dark, dark, with very little traffic. By the time I got to Vallejo, it was surreal. It seemed like nothing had happened. However, when I pulled into my apartment parking lot, I could see water all over the driveway still.
My son was so happy to see me! Then I found out that he hadn't been able to call my parents, so no one knew I was alive.
When I called my parents, they were frantic with worry. The news showed the Bay Bridge and the collapsed Cypress structure. I still have no idea why they would have thought I was on the Cypress, it wasn't on my route home. My sister was raving with worry until my dad finally blew up and told her "If she's dead, she's DEAD, there's nothing we can do about it!".
Yeah, that's my dad, as subtle as a baseball bat.
I think I was still on the phone when I turned on the TV. That was when I had to sit down. I had NO idea what else had happened until that moment. I was truly in shock at that point. I knew the quake was bad but I didn't know how bad until I saw the collapsed Cypress and the broken Bay Bridge. I think I spent the entire next day glued to the TV, watching it all over and over and over again.
It's hard to believe that it's been twenty years already. I'll never, ever forget that day in San Francisco.
Really?
I will never, ever forget that day.
I worked in San Francisco and had just left the office. Walking down the street, I suddenly felt light-headed, reeling, like I was going to faint.
Then the next ripple of the earth pushed me in the opposite direction and I realized that I wasn't having a fainting spell, it was an earthquake!
My first thought was "Oh, no, not today!"
I looked around and saw dust and pebbles coming off the tall buildings surrounding me on Pine Street. My instinct was to get undercover, but there was no place to hide. I was too far from the lobby to run back to my office. So I stepped quickly over to the nearest building, squatted down against the wall and put my briefcase over my head.
The shaking went on forever. (Amazing what adrenaline will do to your perception of time!)
Finally, the shaking stopped.
I got up and ran back to my building, 111 Pine, and into the lobby. It was crowded. I waited and finally my co-workers came out of the stairwell.
I think we were all a bit shockey. They told me that upstairs it was bad. The file cabinets were all over, the contents were a mess.
We all waited a while and then finally decided that we should start making our way home. By then we'd figured out there was no power, little phone service, and something really, really bad had happened.
I went into the basement where there was a working pay phone. I needed to call home and see if my son was OK. The line was long.
Finally, I got to the front of the line and punched in my calling card info. At first, I couldn't get through, but by alternating my home phone and my parents' phone in Downey, California, I finally got through to my son in Fairfield. He said my parents had already called, so I told him to call them back and tell them that I was OK. And that I love him very much.
Once I got off the phone, I knew that it would be a while before I could get out of San Francisco. Since my dad was CalTrans, I knew that they'd check all the bridges and overpasses and that it could be a good while before the roads were fully open. I had driven in that day by myself, so at least I didn't have to worry about my vanpool van. They were on their own.
I walked around for a little while, taking snapshots of some of the damage and when it started getting dark, I saw that the traffic (which had been at a standstill) was finally moving a little.
I walked to my truck, parked under the Embarcadero Freeway, and got ready to try to make my way home. I turned on the CB radio and oh my goodness, was I surprised! Up to this point, I had no idea that the Bay Bridge was broken.
I gathered myself and started listening and asking questions. The best way out appeared to be over the Golden Gate Bridge, so I started working my way across town.
I'll never forget how the lights were all out. The young businessman, coat open and tie askew, beer bottle in one hand and directing traffic through the intersection with the other. The people walking up, away from the Financial District, or down, toward the Ferry Building, trying to get home.
The CB kept chattering and I was talking to others who lived out in the far East Bay. I wasn't the only one trying to get to the Golden Gate. In addition, there was fire in the Marina. A huge fire and buildings that had collapsed, people still inside. Fire and rescue efforts were blocking the main streets so I knew I couldn't go through the Marina.
Thanks to my CB buddies, I knew that Lombard was absolutely packed with cars trying to get out of the city, so I went up another couple of blocks. I THINK it was Filbert that I drove down (OK guys, it was 20 years ago!) paralleling Lombard. Even that far away from the Marina, I could see the flames and light of the fire in the night sky.
I made good time until I had to cut right to get onto Lombard/Richardson. Then it was just bumper to bumper crawling all the way to and over the Golden Gate.
I did finally make it to Highway 37 and from there it was dark, dark, dark, with very little traffic. By the time I got to Vallejo, it was surreal. It seemed like nothing had happened. However, when I pulled into my apartment parking lot, I could see water all over the driveway still.
My son was so happy to see me! Then I found out that he hadn't been able to call my parents, so no one knew I was alive.
When I called my parents, they were frantic with worry. The news showed the Bay Bridge and the collapsed Cypress structure. I still have no idea why they would have thought I was on the Cypress, it wasn't on my route home. My sister was raving with worry until my dad finally blew up and told her "If she's dead, she's DEAD, there's nothing we can do about it!".
Yeah, that's my dad, as subtle as a baseball bat.
I think I was still on the phone when I turned on the TV. That was when I had to sit down. I had NO idea what else had happened until that moment. I was truly in shock at that point. I knew the quake was bad but I didn't know how bad until I saw the collapsed Cypress and the broken Bay Bridge. I think I spent the entire next day glued to the TV, watching it all over and over and over again.
It's hard to believe that it's been twenty years already. I'll never, ever forget that day in San Francisco.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Writing On eHow
I've been writing articles on http://www.ehow.com/.
Since my main newsletter at work has been canceled due to budget, I've had to find other ways to keep those creative juices flowing.
Non-fiction is a good way to do that. The process of writing out how to do something, step-by-step, is good practice for plotting the fiction novel too.
Writing is like art, whether fiction or non-fiction, whether painting or decorating or designing, some principles are the same. They overlap. Step-by-step instructions, or plotting the next chapter (or the whole book) follow the same principles. Organize, outline, write, edit, rewrite, it's all the same concept.
Anyway, I've been enjoying writing on eHow. And the little bit of money I make at it helps too!
I've only written 64 articles so far. I've been trying to take the time and go back, rewriting some of my early articles to better fit the eHow format.
What's great is that the passive income adds up, penny by penny. If you make $10 or more in a month, you'll find the payment in your paypal account the following month.
Every penny counts these days!
Here's a few of my eHow articles:
http://www.ehow.com/how_5381451_go-right-sleep.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_5352468_download-clip-art-microsoft-office.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_5310424_lose-weight-slowly-naturally.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_5090063_rid-bedbugs-using-pesticides.html
Since my main newsletter at work has been canceled due to budget, I've had to find other ways to keep those creative juices flowing.
Non-fiction is a good way to do that. The process of writing out how to do something, step-by-step, is good practice for plotting the fiction novel too.
Writing is like art, whether fiction or non-fiction, whether painting or decorating or designing, some principles are the same. They overlap. Step-by-step instructions, or plotting the next chapter (or the whole book) follow the same principles. Organize, outline, write, edit, rewrite, it's all the same concept.
Anyway, I've been enjoying writing on eHow. And the little bit of money I make at it helps too!
I've only written 64 articles so far. I've been trying to take the time and go back, rewriting some of my early articles to better fit the eHow format.
What's great is that the passive income adds up, penny by penny. If you make $10 or more in a month, you'll find the payment in your paypal account the following month.
Every penny counts these days!
Here's a few of my eHow articles:
http://www.ehow.com/how_5381451_go-right-sleep.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_5352468_download-clip-art-microsoft-office.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_5310424_lose-weight-slowly-naturally.html
http://www.ehow.com/how_5090063_rid-bedbugs-using-pesticides.html
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Sacramento Has Talent
Well, last night was the semi-finals of "Sacramento Has Talent" at Tommy Ts.
Unfortunately, Lofeeya has been sicker than a dog since Saturday night. Stuffed up, runny nose, sore throat and hoarse.
But like the trooper she is, she got up there and sang "You're Not Supposed To Be Here". She had 10 minutes, but she knew that one song was all her voice would hold for. She did a fine job, but only singing one song, and the small crowd, hurt her.
Yes, she didn't advance to the final, which is this coming Tuesday night, September 22, at Tommy Ts in Rancho Cordova, CA.
I'm so proud of her. She knew that she wouldn't be able to do more than one song, and as the promoter said, "I don't know how you hit some of those notes with your voice like that."
She's a trooper!!
Unfortunately, Lofeeya has been sicker than a dog since Saturday night. Stuffed up, runny nose, sore throat and hoarse.
But like the trooper she is, she got up there and sang "You're Not Supposed To Be Here". She had 10 minutes, but she knew that one song was all her voice would hold for. She did a fine job, but only singing one song, and the small crowd, hurt her.
Yes, she didn't advance to the final, which is this coming Tuesday night, September 22, at Tommy Ts in Rancho Cordova, CA.
I'm so proud of her. She knew that she wouldn't be able to do more than one song, and as the promoter said, "I don't know how you hit some of those notes with your voice like that."
She's a trooper!!
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