Prompt- Dream Job
This is easy! My dream job is being a published author. I can do what I love for a living. I can come and go as I please. I can travel all over whenever I want. No more ringing groceries and standing all day killing my back and knees. Not that it's a bad job. Everyone has to eat, of course. But, I've been doing it since I was 16. I'm done with it and with my current health issues, my body can't take it.
And, it's so monotonous. Ring, pack, ring, pack, payment. Next. That's why I write, either working on my novels or these blog challenges. It's something to keep my brain from turning to mush and dribbling out my ears.
And, I love how, when I write, I can escape into a world of my own and do things I could never do in real life. Like, travel to a medieval fantasy land and save a kingdom. Or, battle werewolves or fight along side the Power Rangers... Oh, ha! That was a fan fiction I wrote. Not a part of my novels.
I'd love to be able to go to conventions like BEA to promote my book and meet other authors and fans. And, being self published means I can set my own deadlines and schedule... I just have to work on sticking to them and not being distracted. I'll save that for something boring, like cleaning.
And, how many people in this world can really say their passion is their job? Something that never gets boring or monotonous. You wake up every morning and say, "I can't wait to keep going on this project" or "I just got new inspiration for a story." What can be better than that?
Thanks for reading!
Carey
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Friday, September 19, 2014
September Writing Challenge- Day 19
Prompt- An irrational phobia
Spiders.
I.
Hate.
Spiders!
They freak me out! I get all squirmy at the sight of even a web, and we have 2 big ones outside in our yard. One on the patio and one on our swing. I know they're good. They eat bugs like mosquitoes but do they have to be so icky looking? Why can't they be pretty? Like the poisonous frogs you see in the rainforest?
I think what really ruined me was watching the movie Arachnophobia when I was 12. I was having a sleepover for my birthday and one of my friends brought it over. A movie about killer spiders being watched by 4 pre-teen girls in a basement? That would have a fantastic ending. We didn't make my mother very happy. There was a tiny, harmless spider on the ceiling and we all began screaming. Mom was already asleep but she woke up and came down to squish it for us. Needless to say, we stuck to Disney for the rest of the night in our movie selection.
If I find one in the house, which is rare, I am able to squish them... if they're small enough. I squeal and squirm while doing so. But, I get the job done. There are few things more terrifying than waking up in the morning and seeing a spider on your bedroom wall. Talk about motivation to get out of bed! That happened a few times while my room was in the basement. (Another reason I came back upstairs)
I don't really know why I have this fear. But, isn't that the meaning of phobia? No rational explanation? Maybe I'll overcome it someday. Or, it's just something I have to live with.
What about you? Do you have a fear of spiders? What are your phobias?
Thanks for reading!
Carey
Spiders.
I.
Hate.
Spiders!
They freak me out! I get all squirmy at the sight of even a web, and we have 2 big ones outside in our yard. One on the patio and one on our swing. I know they're good. They eat bugs like mosquitoes but do they have to be so icky looking? Why can't they be pretty? Like the poisonous frogs you see in the rainforest?
I think what really ruined me was watching the movie Arachnophobia when I was 12. I was having a sleepover for my birthday and one of my friends brought it over. A movie about killer spiders being watched by 4 pre-teen girls in a basement? That would have a fantastic ending. We didn't make my mother very happy. There was a tiny, harmless spider on the ceiling and we all began screaming. Mom was already asleep but she woke up and came down to squish it for us. Needless to say, we stuck to Disney for the rest of the night in our movie selection.
If I find one in the house, which is rare, I am able to squish them... if they're small enough. I squeal and squirm while doing so. But, I get the job done. There are few things more terrifying than waking up in the morning and seeing a spider on your bedroom wall. Talk about motivation to get out of bed! That happened a few times while my room was in the basement. (Another reason I came back upstairs)
I don't really know why I have this fear. But, isn't that the meaning of phobia? No rational explanation? Maybe I'll overcome it someday. Or, it's just something I have to live with.
What about you? Do you have a fear of spiders? What are your phobias?
Thanks for reading!
Carey
Thursday, September 18, 2014
September Writing Challenge- Day 18
Prompt- Old photo of me and the story behind it
This has to be one of my favorite pictures ever. This was taken when I was in the 5th grade, just before I turned 11. I was in a musical theater group and this was just after one of our performances. We did Gilbert and Sullivan's 'Mikado,' hence the wig and the kimono. My grandparents all came to support me, even though I was only an extra. But, they were awesome like that.
On the left side is my grandma Veronica. She's my dad's mom. We lived with her from the time I was about 8 after my grandpa passed until she passed in 2007, just before my sister graduated high school. We were very close and told each other everything. She was an incredible cook and always made tons of cookies for Christmas every year. When I started working at a grocery store in high school, she would slip me her credit card and tell me to bring home goodies. She loved to read romance novels and was the one who introduced me to Nora Roberts' books. But, she also read the Harlequin books. And, some of them were bordering on what I imagine Fifty Shades would be like. So, I never read them. I think I tried reading one and had to put it down.
The pair on the right are my mom's parents, Grandpa Steve and Grandma Victoria. Two of the most amazing people I ever knew. Grandma also loved to cook and bake. She's the one who taught my mom and aunts how to make homemade pierogies and they are now teaching me and my cousins. She always had a kind word for us kids, even when we were having a bad day. She was little but mighty. No one crossed her or hurt her family or you'd get an ear full. Grandpa loved to talk, especially when there was food on the table. For a while he and my dad had a weekly dinner tradition. And, I would tag along, too, if I didn't work. They'd go to a local Chinese buffet and sit and eat and talk for a couple hours. Or, rather, Grandpa would talk and we'd listen. He loved to tell stories. Sometimes, he would embellish them a bit but we never knew otherwise.
I miss them all very much and when I look at this picture I can't help smiling at all the memories I have of them.
Thanks for reading!
Carey
On the left side is my grandma Veronica. She's my dad's mom. We lived with her from the time I was about 8 after my grandpa passed until she passed in 2007, just before my sister graduated high school. We were very close and told each other everything. She was an incredible cook and always made tons of cookies for Christmas every year. When I started working at a grocery store in high school, she would slip me her credit card and tell me to bring home goodies. She loved to read romance novels and was the one who introduced me to Nora Roberts' books. But, she also read the Harlequin books. And, some of them were bordering on what I imagine Fifty Shades would be like. So, I never read them. I think I tried reading one and had to put it down.
The pair on the right are my mom's parents, Grandpa Steve and Grandma Victoria. Two of the most amazing people I ever knew. Grandma also loved to cook and bake. She's the one who taught my mom and aunts how to make homemade pierogies and they are now teaching me and my cousins. She always had a kind word for us kids, even when we were having a bad day. She was little but mighty. No one crossed her or hurt her family or you'd get an ear full. Grandpa loved to talk, especially when there was food on the table. For a while he and my dad had a weekly dinner tradition. And, I would tag along, too, if I didn't work. They'd go to a local Chinese buffet and sit and eat and talk for a couple hours. Or, rather, Grandpa would talk and we'd listen. He loved to tell stories. Sometimes, he would embellish them a bit but we never knew otherwise.
I miss them all very much and when I look at this picture I can't help smiling at all the memories I have of them.
Thanks for reading!
Carey
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
September Writing Challenge- Day 17
Prompt- What do you collect?
Over the years I've collected a number of things. Some were "the thing to have" like Pogs- these little cardboard disc things that everyone collected and traded when I was a kid. I even collected YuGiOh cards for a little while.
Now, I don't have too much I collect. I'm trying to keep the clutter to a minimum. Especially, if I move. I want less to haul. My car isn't that big.
When I started to travel, I began collecting post cards of wherever I went. They were a great way to get pictures I wasn't able to or the pictures didn't come out. And, I liked the little blurbs on the back of them about various landmarks. I could write notes to myself about my experience to use later in journaling in my scrapbooks. They also have become quite a nice collage on my bedroom wall. I'm running out of space. But, I haven't gone anywhere recently so it hasn't mattered much.
Along with post cards, when I travel I try to buy a shot glass from every place I visit. I'm not a big drinker but they're small and easy to put in my carry-on bag so they don't break. I have a little shelf in my room where they sit right now. If I move, I'll have to find somewhere else to put them. But, that shouldn't be too hard. I could get a curio cabinet like my mom has. Then they wouldn't get as dusty. Some just have the place I visited. Some have fun sayings on them or pictures.
There's also my ever growing personal library. A variety of genres fill my shelves from YA to historical fiction romance to even non-fiction. My sister was teasing me the other day after my last book haul. "There's a such thing as a library," she said. "Well, as my overdue fines will prove, I have a hard time giving books back. So, it's easier to just buy them." She just made a face at me. I don't care. I like my books.
What about you?
Thanks for reading!
Carey
Over the years I've collected a number of things. Some were "the thing to have" like Pogs- these little cardboard disc things that everyone collected and traded when I was a kid. I even collected YuGiOh cards for a little while.
Now, I don't have too much I collect. I'm trying to keep the clutter to a minimum. Especially, if I move. I want less to haul. My car isn't that big.
When I started to travel, I began collecting post cards of wherever I went. They were a great way to get pictures I wasn't able to or the pictures didn't come out. And, I liked the little blurbs on the back of them about various landmarks. I could write notes to myself about my experience to use later in journaling in my scrapbooks. They also have become quite a nice collage on my bedroom wall. I'm running out of space. But, I haven't gone anywhere recently so it hasn't mattered much.
Along with post cards, when I travel I try to buy a shot glass from every place I visit. I'm not a big drinker but they're small and easy to put in my carry-on bag so they don't break. I have a little shelf in my room where they sit right now. If I move, I'll have to find somewhere else to put them. But, that shouldn't be too hard. I could get a curio cabinet like my mom has. Then they wouldn't get as dusty. Some just have the place I visited. Some have fun sayings on them or pictures.
There's also my ever growing personal library. A variety of genres fill my shelves from YA to historical fiction romance to even non-fiction. My sister was teasing me the other day after my last book haul. "There's a such thing as a library," she said. "Well, as my overdue fines will prove, I have a hard time giving books back. So, it's easier to just buy them." She just made a face at me. I don't care. I like my books.
What about you?
Thanks for reading!
Carey
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
September Writing Challenge- Day 16
Prompt- Favorite movies you never get tired of watching
I have a few of these and some of them drive my family crazy. So, I usually just watch them when I'm home alone.
1) Moulin Rouge- This is the movie that made my best friend and I, well, best friends. It was released to DVD when I was a senior in high school and we were both obsessed with it. She saw it first and constantly talked about it. So, one day, I went to her house in between when school let out and we had to be back for theater practice and we watched it. I went out and bought the soundtracks (there are 2) and the DVD myself and watched it over and over. We listened to the soundtrack every day at lunch and sang the songs all the time. Every now and then, I'll feel nostalgic and dig out my DVD. I've had to buy it a few times over the years because the disc would wear out from being used so much. This movie is not one for children. But, if you love musicals and incredible visuals and romance, this is a wonderful movie.
2) Princess Bride- "She gets captured, he gets killed, but it all turns out okay." This 80s classic is one I will never get tired of. It has everything. Sword fighting, romance, fairy tale castles, magic, bad guys, princesses, pirates. And, Andre the Giant? If you haven't seen this yet, first, Hello, welcome to planet Earth and Intro to Awesome 101. Second, go out to the nearest movie retail store and BUY IT! Then, grab some popcorn and settle in for a time honored classic adventure for everyone.
3) Robin Hood, Men In Tights- The genius that is Mel Brooks. Need I say more? I do? Okay, then. The original spoof master created one of the best Robin Hood adaptation films I've ever seen. It's hilarious. Everything you love about Robin Hood- the swashbuckling, the love story, the familiar characters- all are there but in a way that kind of makes fun of them and twists things around a bit. Example: Instead of Friar Tuck, it's Rabbi Tuckman. (Played by Mel Brooks himself) It is not for the easily offended because Mel Brooks makes a lot of crude, rude jokes in his films but I've been watching his movies since I was a kid when I didn't understand them so they don't bother me anymore.
4) Hotel Transylvania- This is a kids movie, yes. I first saw clips of it at work. We have a play area where people can drop their kids off while they shop. I work in there sometimes and it was around Halloween so it was a good time for a monster movie. This is absolutely adorable. Animated movie about classic monsters, but instead of them being scary to us, they're scared OF us. Dracula builds a hotel in the middle of a forest in Transylvania where monsters can come and stay without the fear of humans with their angry mobs, torches, and pitchforks. It's the image all the monsters have of humans because that's all they ever knew. It's Dracula's daughter's 118th birthday and there is a unexpected guest to the party. Johnny, a human, wanders into the hotel. What happens? Well, I'm not going to give it away. With Halloween coming up, this is a great movie to share with the kids. Ranks right up there with Hocus Pocus on my list of best Halloween movies. Gives you an idea of my taste and that I am entirely NOT into the really scary stuff at all!
5) 1776- Another musical! Shocker! Not really, I love musicals! And, this is incredible. The version I have is from the 1970s, I believe. Bought it on iTunes. I am unaware of any remakes. Unless you count the stage productions over the years, because it was originally a Broadway play. It's about the Continental Congress and the writing of the Declaration of Independence. It makes fun of all the party politics of then and now. Even though there were no set parties as of yet in the country, there were certainly factions fighting each other. Those for and against independence from England. Those for and against the slavery clause in the Declaration. Those for and against John Adams and his ranting and hot temper. There's humor (sometimes crude, lot of times from Ben Franklin) and drama mixed in with enough history to make you want to read about the event in more detail. Plus, William Daniels, aka Mr. Feeny, is John Adams. And, the man can sing! I never knew!
6) Knights Tale- Ah, medieval love stories. Knights in shining armor, beautiful ladies, scheming villains, and 70s rock. Wait, what? Yeah, the whole movie is set to 70s rock. The opening song is Queen's "We Will Rock You" and the peasants, and even the nobility, are dancing and singing along as they watch the tournaments. But, that adds to the fun of this movie. I love the big dinner dancing scene. I'm not all that familiar with David Bowie but, man, do I want to learn that dance to Golden Years. Also, the late Heath Ledger is so handsome and so incredible in this movie. I like him in this role- the fun loving, I'm gonna touch the stars, peasant boy traveling with his three hilarious companions. The only other movie I watched of his was Dark Knight, made shortly before his death. And, I can't get through the whole thing. It's just too sad. It also has one of the best lines about writing I've ever heard. After settling his gambling debts, Geoffery Chauser (Yes, the based on the famous medieval writer) makes a threat to his debtors. "I will eviscerate you in fiction. Every pimple. Every character flaw. I was naked for a day. You will be naked for eternity." It's what a lot of writers I know want to do. If there is someone who bullied you, then you could base a character on them and over exaggerate everything about them. And, if they don't like you (or you use a pen name) they'll never know you're making fun of them. It's a subtle, nonviolent revenge.
7) Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat- Yet another musical! Also, a stage production. I have the Donny Osmond version. Admittedly, I'm not a huge fan of him but everything else about this production is so much fun. And, the entire musical brings back childhood memories. I was in musical theater and when I was in 6th grade, we did this same show. It was one of my personal favorites. The visuals and the music are incredible and catchy. The characters are so much fun. And, it's a wonderful story. Some people don't like that it's a dramatized version of a Biblical story. But, people say that when anything from the Bible is dramatized. Jesus Christ Superstar is a prime example. Also a favorite of mine, but my dad said he remembered a lot of protests about it when it first came out. Or, all the things people said about Mel Gibson when he made his Passion film. And, I'm sure people made comments about the latest Noah film, which I actually want to see. I'm curious.
8) Princess Diaries 2- Anne Hathaway, how I adore you and your cuteness! I enjoyed the first Princess Diaries very much. Anything that has a happy ending for the quiet, awkward girl, I'm all for. But, this one, where she's a bit more grown up and coming of age, is even better. I adore the love story. The setting is gorgeous. And, who wouldn't want Julie Andrews to be their grandmother? She's amazing!
9) Ever After- Another princess story! I'm such a girl! And a hopeless romantic. Drew Barrymore is Danielle, our Cinderella-type figure. It's a more "real life" version of the story. No fairy godmother. She has to figure things out for herself to make her life better. And, she risks her heart for it. I laughed. I cried. I thought Angelica Houston made a fantastic step mother. She's scheming, snobbish, and mean and sometimes you just want to take her by the shoulders and shout, "What is wrong with you?!" The differences in the two daughters is a refreshing touch to the story. Marguerite is the pampered, spoiled favorite. And Jacqueline is the softspoken, sometimes picked on one. If they didn't have Danielle to harass, they would probably have focused more on Jacqueline. Another love story for the ages.
10) Frozen- And finally! My guilty pleasure. I'm sure, by now, everyone is sick of hearing about this movie, or hearing the song on the radio. But, I adore this movie. I loved how it was about the bond of sisters and you don't have to have a man for true love. The love of family is just as powerful. Idina Menzel as Elsa- She has the voice for it. And, I do love that song. Kristen Bell playing Anna is so cute. I love how awkward and funny Anna is and she ends up saving the day. If you haven't seen it, but are curious about the hype, check this movie out. (Some) grown ups love it. Kids love it. It's a fun, family movie.
So, that's my 10 movies I can't get enough of. It's quite a list. But, if I didn't stop at 10, I'd be writing forever.
Are any of these on your list? Comment below.
Carey
I have a few of these and some of them drive my family crazy. So, I usually just watch them when I'm home alone.
1) Moulin Rouge- This is the movie that made my best friend and I, well, best friends. It was released to DVD when I was a senior in high school and we were both obsessed with it. She saw it first and constantly talked about it. So, one day, I went to her house in between when school let out and we had to be back for theater practice and we watched it. I went out and bought the soundtracks (there are 2) and the DVD myself and watched it over and over. We listened to the soundtrack every day at lunch and sang the songs all the time. Every now and then, I'll feel nostalgic and dig out my DVD. I've had to buy it a few times over the years because the disc would wear out from being used so much. This movie is not one for children. But, if you love musicals and incredible visuals and romance, this is a wonderful movie.
2) Princess Bride- "She gets captured, he gets killed, but it all turns out okay." This 80s classic is one I will never get tired of. It has everything. Sword fighting, romance, fairy tale castles, magic, bad guys, princesses, pirates. And, Andre the Giant? If you haven't seen this yet, first, Hello, welcome to planet Earth and Intro to Awesome 101. Second, go out to the nearest movie retail store and BUY IT! Then, grab some popcorn and settle in for a time honored classic adventure for everyone.
3) Robin Hood, Men In Tights- The genius that is Mel Brooks. Need I say more? I do? Okay, then. The original spoof master created one of the best Robin Hood adaptation films I've ever seen. It's hilarious. Everything you love about Robin Hood- the swashbuckling, the love story, the familiar characters- all are there but in a way that kind of makes fun of them and twists things around a bit. Example: Instead of Friar Tuck, it's Rabbi Tuckman. (Played by Mel Brooks himself) It is not for the easily offended because Mel Brooks makes a lot of crude, rude jokes in his films but I've been watching his movies since I was a kid when I didn't understand them so they don't bother me anymore.
4) Hotel Transylvania- This is a kids movie, yes. I first saw clips of it at work. We have a play area where people can drop their kids off while they shop. I work in there sometimes and it was around Halloween so it was a good time for a monster movie. This is absolutely adorable. Animated movie about classic monsters, but instead of them being scary to us, they're scared OF us. Dracula builds a hotel in the middle of a forest in Transylvania where monsters can come and stay without the fear of humans with their angry mobs, torches, and pitchforks. It's the image all the monsters have of humans because that's all they ever knew. It's Dracula's daughter's 118th birthday and there is a unexpected guest to the party. Johnny, a human, wanders into the hotel. What happens? Well, I'm not going to give it away. With Halloween coming up, this is a great movie to share with the kids. Ranks right up there with Hocus Pocus on my list of best Halloween movies. Gives you an idea of my taste and that I am entirely NOT into the really scary stuff at all!
5) 1776- Another musical! Shocker! Not really, I love musicals! And, this is incredible. The version I have is from the 1970s, I believe. Bought it on iTunes. I am unaware of any remakes. Unless you count the stage productions over the years, because it was originally a Broadway play. It's about the Continental Congress and the writing of the Declaration of Independence. It makes fun of all the party politics of then and now. Even though there were no set parties as of yet in the country, there were certainly factions fighting each other. Those for and against independence from England. Those for and against the slavery clause in the Declaration. Those for and against John Adams and his ranting and hot temper. There's humor (sometimes crude, lot of times from Ben Franklin) and drama mixed in with enough history to make you want to read about the event in more detail. Plus, William Daniels, aka Mr. Feeny, is John Adams. And, the man can sing! I never knew!
6) Knights Tale- Ah, medieval love stories. Knights in shining armor, beautiful ladies, scheming villains, and 70s rock. Wait, what? Yeah, the whole movie is set to 70s rock. The opening song is Queen's "We Will Rock You" and the peasants, and even the nobility, are dancing and singing along as they watch the tournaments. But, that adds to the fun of this movie. I love the big dinner dancing scene. I'm not all that familiar with David Bowie but, man, do I want to learn that dance to Golden Years. Also, the late Heath Ledger is so handsome and so incredible in this movie. I like him in this role- the fun loving, I'm gonna touch the stars, peasant boy traveling with his three hilarious companions. The only other movie I watched of his was Dark Knight, made shortly before his death. And, I can't get through the whole thing. It's just too sad. It also has one of the best lines about writing I've ever heard. After settling his gambling debts, Geoffery Chauser (Yes, the based on the famous medieval writer) makes a threat to his debtors. "I will eviscerate you in fiction. Every pimple. Every character flaw. I was naked for a day. You will be naked for eternity." It's what a lot of writers I know want to do. If there is someone who bullied you, then you could base a character on them and over exaggerate everything about them. And, if they don't like you (or you use a pen name) they'll never know you're making fun of them. It's a subtle, nonviolent revenge.
7) Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat- Yet another musical! Also, a stage production. I have the Donny Osmond version. Admittedly, I'm not a huge fan of him but everything else about this production is so much fun. And, the entire musical brings back childhood memories. I was in musical theater and when I was in 6th grade, we did this same show. It was one of my personal favorites. The visuals and the music are incredible and catchy. The characters are so much fun. And, it's a wonderful story. Some people don't like that it's a dramatized version of a Biblical story. But, people say that when anything from the Bible is dramatized. Jesus Christ Superstar is a prime example. Also a favorite of mine, but my dad said he remembered a lot of protests about it when it first came out. Or, all the things people said about Mel Gibson when he made his Passion film. And, I'm sure people made comments about the latest Noah film, which I actually want to see. I'm curious.
8) Princess Diaries 2- Anne Hathaway, how I adore you and your cuteness! I enjoyed the first Princess Diaries very much. Anything that has a happy ending for the quiet, awkward girl, I'm all for. But, this one, where she's a bit more grown up and coming of age, is even better. I adore the love story. The setting is gorgeous. And, who wouldn't want Julie Andrews to be their grandmother? She's amazing!
9) Ever After- Another princess story! I'm such a girl! And a hopeless romantic. Drew Barrymore is Danielle, our Cinderella-type figure. It's a more "real life" version of the story. No fairy godmother. She has to figure things out for herself to make her life better. And, she risks her heart for it. I laughed. I cried. I thought Angelica Houston made a fantastic step mother. She's scheming, snobbish, and mean and sometimes you just want to take her by the shoulders and shout, "What is wrong with you?!" The differences in the two daughters is a refreshing touch to the story. Marguerite is the pampered, spoiled favorite. And Jacqueline is the softspoken, sometimes picked on one. If they didn't have Danielle to harass, they would probably have focused more on Jacqueline. Another love story for the ages.
10) Frozen- And finally! My guilty pleasure. I'm sure, by now, everyone is sick of hearing about this movie, or hearing the song on the radio. But, I adore this movie. I loved how it was about the bond of sisters and you don't have to have a man for true love. The love of family is just as powerful. Idina Menzel as Elsa- She has the voice for it. And, I do love that song. Kristen Bell playing Anna is so cute. I love how awkward and funny Anna is and she ends up saving the day. If you haven't seen it, but are curious about the hype, check this movie out. (Some) grown ups love it. Kids love it. It's a fun, family movie.
So, that's my 10 movies I can't get enough of. It's quite a list. But, if I didn't stop at 10, I'd be writing forever.
Are any of these on your list? Comment below.
Carey
Monday, September 15, 2014
September Writing Challenge- Day 15
Prompt- Recipe fail
This is not exactly a fail but it could have been. My favorite treat from childhood is caramel rice crispy treats. My grandmother would make them every summer for us, sometimes multiple times if we were good because we would just gobble them up. I would help her by unwrapping the caramel because I would not eat them as I did so... not too many, anyway. Had to sample one or two to make sure they were okay. So, I thought it was a pretty simple recipe. Melt caramel, dip big marshmallows, roll in cereal, let set.
After she passed, I wanted to make them for a party. I had been craving them for a long time and finally had an opportunity. I stood at the stove with the double boiler set up and the caramels melting but something wasn't right. They were turning out too thick! I didn't want to burn it because I didn't want to make it over again. While I'm standing there wondering like an idiot, my mother actually dug out Gram's cookbook. She read the recipe then went to the cabinet and refrigerator to grab the two ingredients I was missing. To reach the right consistency, I needed butter and sweetened condensed milk. Once I added those, everything worked out just like I remembered when I was little.
Of course, there was the obligatory teasing about how I should actually read the cookbook. But, everything worked out.
This is not exactly a fail but it could have been. My favorite treat from childhood is caramel rice crispy treats. My grandmother would make them every summer for us, sometimes multiple times if we were good because we would just gobble them up. I would help her by unwrapping the caramel because I would not eat them as I did so... not too many, anyway. Had to sample one or two to make sure they were okay. So, I thought it was a pretty simple recipe. Melt caramel, dip big marshmallows, roll in cereal, let set.
After she passed, I wanted to make them for a party. I had been craving them for a long time and finally had an opportunity. I stood at the stove with the double boiler set up and the caramels melting but something wasn't right. They were turning out too thick! I didn't want to burn it because I didn't want to make it over again. While I'm standing there wondering like an idiot, my mother actually dug out Gram's cookbook. She read the recipe then went to the cabinet and refrigerator to grab the two ingredients I was missing. To reach the right consistency, I needed butter and sweetened condensed milk. Once I added those, everything worked out just like I remembered when I was little.
Of course, there was the obligatory teasing about how I should actually read the cookbook. But, everything worked out.
Sunday, September 14, 2014
September Writing Challenge- Day 14
Prompt- I was wrongly accused of...
This is kind of a silly one. It was aggravating at the time but I can look back on it now and laugh. I was wrongly accused of picking my nose in public.
Now, listen to the whole story first and you'll see why I find this so funny. At my job, we have a Halloween dress up every year. We host a little indoor trick-or-treat where we have treat stations throughout the store and the kids can go around and get something from all the departments. For some added fun, they allow the workers to dress up as well. So, about 4 or 5 years ago, I was a geisha girl. I had made this costume (with my mom's help because I don't sew) and did my hair and face all up and I loved this costume. I thought I looked pretty cool. The fabric trim and the belt were made from scraps I found that had this incredible dragon print that I loved. And, my hair was long enough to go in a bun and I had hair sticks that my friend gave me.
Only flaw to the costume was the make-up. I bought some really pale concealer in a popular brand and used it to make my face look lighter like I'd seen in the movies. I thought it would be fine. This particular brand was a good quality and it looked good. But, my skin is very sensitive with stuff like that. Maybe because I never wear stuff like that. So, while at work, my face began to itch. I stopped for a moment to scratch an itch that was driving me crazy on the side of my nose. That's when the customer got mad at me. Of course, when someone wants to make the complaint, they do not speak to the person they have an issue with. Oh, no. That would be too easy. Then their complaint would be easily resolved and no drama would be caused. Where's the fun in that?? So, he went to the customer service desk and raised a fuss. My register was nearby but I was just out of earshot. But, I saw a lot of hand gestures and pointing at me. The girl who took his complaint assured him he would have a talk with me and when he stormed out she came over laughing.
"Do you know what he said?" she asked. I shook my head. "He accused you of picking your nose."
"What? Ew! My face was itchy from this make-up and I've been scratching all day. Maybe he somehow interpreted it wrong from his angle in line?"
She shrugged. "I have no idea. But, I thought you'd get a laugh out of it." We both did, I think.
So, that was it. It's still one of my favorite costumes. I kept it for future use when I can't think of something else. It's my go-to last resort like my poodle skirt or Fem 11 that I've kept in a bin in my closet.
There is no shortage of insanity at my day job. Comes with working with the public, I suppose.
Thanks for reading!
Carey
This is kind of a silly one. It was aggravating at the time but I can look back on it now and laugh. I was wrongly accused of picking my nose in public.
Only flaw to the costume was the make-up. I bought some really pale concealer in a popular brand and used it to make my face look lighter like I'd seen in the movies. I thought it would be fine. This particular brand was a good quality and it looked good. But, my skin is very sensitive with stuff like that. Maybe because I never wear stuff like that. So, while at work, my face began to itch. I stopped for a moment to scratch an itch that was driving me crazy on the side of my nose. That's when the customer got mad at me. Of course, when someone wants to make the complaint, they do not speak to the person they have an issue with. Oh, no. That would be too easy. Then their complaint would be easily resolved and no drama would be caused. Where's the fun in that?? So, he went to the customer service desk and raised a fuss. My register was nearby but I was just out of earshot. But, I saw a lot of hand gestures and pointing at me. The girl who took his complaint assured him he would have a talk with me and when he stormed out she came over laughing.
"Do you know what he said?" she asked. I shook my head. "He accused you of picking your nose."
"What? Ew! My face was itchy from this make-up and I've been scratching all day. Maybe he somehow interpreted it wrong from his angle in line?"
She shrugged. "I have no idea. But, I thought you'd get a laugh out of it." We both did, I think.
So, that was it. It's still one of my favorite costumes. I kept it for future use when I can't think of something else. It's my go-to last resort like my poodle skirt or Fem 11 that I've kept in a bin in my closet.
There is no shortage of insanity at my day job. Comes with working with the public, I suppose.
Thanks for reading!
Carey
Saturday, September 13, 2014
September Writing Challenge- Day 13
Prompt- If you could have dinner with 5 people (alive or dead), who would they be and why?
I've had to think long and hard about this one just to narrow it down to five people!
1) Abraham Lincoln- Our greatest President ever, in my opinion anyway. I've read a number of books about his life and tragic death and often wondered what it would be like to talk to him in person. I have so many questions I would want to ask him about living in that time of the Civil War and what he would have done had he been able to finish his second term. What would he have done differently than his successor? What he thinks of the world today? The good, bad, and indifferent. How would he deal with our idiot politicians? Technology then and now? And the list goes on.
2) Pope Francis- I LOVE this man! From the moment he was announced as the new Pope and he stepped out onto the balcony, I loved him. He is just so humble and great and not afraid to ruffle a few feathers to get his point across. Being the first man from the Americas to become Pope is already an accomplishments. He also is on social media. I love following him on Twitter.
The cartoon on the side is a perfect example of how wonderful and different he is. He is such a wonderful example of faith and love of the Lord and people. It's refreshing to see someone sincere like that. Not that prior Popes weren't. Also love the newly sainted John Paul II. (We had a watch party for his canonization back in April) But, in my lifetime, this is a rare sight.
3) Karen Gillan- Having a little fun now and inviting along one of my favorite actresses. I loved her as Amelia Pond in Doctor Who and might check out her new show later this month. I think she would be so much fun to hang out with. She's gorgeous. I love her accent. And, she seems like that fun to be with, girl next door-type of person.
4) Philippa Gregory- My favorite author of ever! Her Tudor books are fantastic. I'm currently reading the Cousins' War series. (I should get the final in the mail this week) First, I would have her sign all my books I own by her. I would gush and fangirl tell her I hope I write half as good as she does so my books can have the same impact on someone else as she has had on me. She would probably think I was crazy but hopefully she would be understanding and just smile and go with it.
5) John Barrowman- Now, if my friends read this they're probably wondering this: "She mentioned Karen Gillan but not Matt Smith? Or any of the other Doctor actors?" Well, I would love to meet all of them but I had to be selective for this list so I chose the dashing Captain Jack as my final person. I follow him on social media and seen videos of interviews on YouTube. He seems like a highly entertaining and enthusiastic person, not only while in character. He smiles and laughs and isn't afraid to drop a dirty joke here and there. When he gives interviews, he's open about a lot of topics and, as I said, so enthusiastic. He loves what he does and it shows and I want to emulate that amount of passion in my own work.
So, those are my five. It was a tough list to make. But it was fun. What are your five?
Thanks for reading!
I've had to think long and hard about this one just to narrow it down to five people!
1) Abraham Lincoln- Our greatest President ever, in my opinion anyway. I've read a number of books about his life and tragic death and often wondered what it would be like to talk to him in person. I have so many questions I would want to ask him about living in that time of the Civil War and what he would have done had he been able to finish his second term. What would he have done differently than his successor? What he thinks of the world today? The good, bad, and indifferent. How would he deal with our idiot politicians? Technology then and now? And the list goes on.
The cartoon on the side is a perfect example of how wonderful and different he is. He is such a wonderful example of faith and love of the Lord and people. It's refreshing to see someone sincere like that. Not that prior Popes weren't. Also love the newly sainted John Paul II. (We had a watch party for his canonization back in April) But, in my lifetime, this is a rare sight.
3) Karen Gillan- Having a little fun now and inviting along one of my favorite actresses. I loved her as Amelia Pond in Doctor Who and might check out her new show later this month. I think she would be so much fun to hang out with. She's gorgeous. I love her accent. And, she seems like that fun to be with, girl next door-type of person.
4) Philippa Gregory- My favorite author of ever! Her Tudor books are fantastic. I'm currently reading the Cousins' War series. (I should get the final in the mail this week) First, I would have her sign all my books I own by her. I would gush and fangirl tell her I hope I write half as good as she does so my books can have the same impact on someone else as she has had on me. She would probably think I was crazy but hopefully she would be understanding and just smile and go with it.
5) John Barrowman- Now, if my friends read this they're probably wondering this: "She mentioned Karen Gillan but not Matt Smith? Or any of the other Doctor actors?" Well, I would love to meet all of them but I had to be selective for this list so I chose the dashing Captain Jack as my final person. I follow him on social media and seen videos of interviews on YouTube. He seems like a highly entertaining and enthusiastic person, not only while in character. He smiles and laughs and isn't afraid to drop a dirty joke here and there. When he gives interviews, he's open about a lot of topics and, as I said, so enthusiastic. He loves what he does and it shows and I want to emulate that amount of passion in my own work.
So, those are my five. It was a tough list to make. But it was fun. What are your five?
Thanks for reading!
Friday, September 12, 2014
September Writing Challenge- Day 12
Prompt- What do you think people misunderstand most about you?
This is a big one I experience a lot at work and when I was in school. And, I think it applies to many people.
It's a common misconception about quiet people. Quiet = weak/submissive/insert similar adjectives here But we're not. Being quiet, at least for me, means I know how to hold my tongue. Or, I have no other choice but to do so in some cases. Like at my day job, for example. I work with the public. I really have to censor myself. When a customer is nasty with me and thinks because I work at a grocery store, I am stupid and he/she can just disrespect and trash talk me over something trivial, I have to hush until I go on break or go home. Then, I can sit in the car for a few minutes and say everything I wanted to say to the person's face but couldn't because I'd be fired.
This doesn't mean I haven't slipped. There is a coworker I'm always knocking heads with. I've mentioned her before in previous posts. (Enjoying two weeks of her being on vacation. *happy dance*) She has spread rumors about how I fake my health issues just to get out of work or gain sympathy. She has accused me of mouthing off to her when I've said nothing, in an attempt to not scream out that I think she's a fire breathing bitch to her face. But, even the most patient people have a limit of what they can take and I did lose my temper with her once. She snapped at me over something stupid and I was trying to keep quiet. She thought I mumbled something and was getting on my case. I told her I didn't say anything. She wouldn't drop it. She started talking about it to another coworker who 1) is a friend of mine and 2) was still well within earshot. I couldn't take it anymore. Customers were overhearing the names she was calling me and I was being humiliated. I shouted, "I didn't say anything to you so back off. You are acting like an idiot child talking about me five feet away and in front of customers." My friend was a little frightened. She told me later she had never seen me lose my temper before and I said it was really hard to keep myself from completely let loose because I probably would have inserted a few expletives while I was yelling. But, she was already being inappropriate so I didn't want to play her game. Someone had to be the bigger person.
I describe my temper as a volcano. Dormant, quiet, patient usually. But, each time I'm pushed, the pressure builds and it gets harder and harder to stay quiet until BOOM! It's 1980 Mt. St. Helen. I think it was because I stayed quiet for so many years as a kid/teen and it did little to no good for me. About time I learned to stand up for myself.
And, this runs in the family. My mom is the same. And when family is involved, it's even harder for us to keep quiet because we're, for the most part, a close-knit bunch. A few years ago, some family members were insulted and hurt by someone and my mother went off. She had been wanting to say what she said for many years and was finally pushed to the point where she didn't care anymore and got it all out. She always tries to be the peacekeeper of the family. "Let's work it out like civil people." But, when someone you love is hurt, verbally or otherwise, you jump right in and defend them to the moon and back.
Now you know!
Thanks for reading.
Carey
This is a big one I experience a lot at work and when I was in school. And, I think it applies to many people.
It's a common misconception about quiet people. Quiet = weak/submissive/insert similar adjectives here But we're not. Being quiet, at least for me, means I know how to hold my tongue. Or, I have no other choice but to do so in some cases. Like at my day job, for example. I work with the public. I really have to censor myself. When a customer is nasty with me and thinks because I work at a grocery store, I am stupid and he/she can just disrespect and trash talk me over something trivial, I have to hush until I go on break or go home. Then, I can sit in the car for a few minutes and say everything I wanted to say to the person's face but couldn't because I'd be fired.
This doesn't mean I haven't slipped. There is a coworker I'm always knocking heads with. I've mentioned her before in previous posts. (Enjoying two weeks of her being on vacation. *happy dance*) She has spread rumors about how I fake my health issues just to get out of work or gain sympathy. She has accused me of mouthing off to her when I've said nothing, in an attempt to not scream out that I think she's a fire breathing bitch to her face. But, even the most patient people have a limit of what they can take and I did lose my temper with her once. She snapped at me over something stupid and I was trying to keep quiet. She thought I mumbled something and was getting on my case. I told her I didn't say anything. She wouldn't drop it. She started talking about it to another coworker who 1) is a friend of mine and 2) was still well within earshot. I couldn't take it anymore. Customers were overhearing the names she was calling me and I was being humiliated. I shouted, "I didn't say anything to you so back off. You are acting like an idiot child talking about me five feet away and in front of customers." My friend was a little frightened. She told me later she had never seen me lose my temper before and I said it was really hard to keep myself from completely let loose because I probably would have inserted a few expletives while I was yelling. But, she was already being inappropriate so I didn't want to play her game. Someone had to be the bigger person.
I describe my temper as a volcano. Dormant, quiet, patient usually. But, each time I'm pushed, the pressure builds and it gets harder and harder to stay quiet until BOOM! It's 1980 Mt. St. Helen. I think it was because I stayed quiet for so many years as a kid/teen and it did little to no good for me. About time I learned to stand up for myself.
And, this runs in the family. My mom is the same. And when family is involved, it's even harder for us to keep quiet because we're, for the most part, a close-knit bunch. A few years ago, some family members were insulted and hurt by someone and my mother went off. She had been wanting to say what she said for many years and was finally pushed to the point where she didn't care anymore and got it all out. She always tries to be the peacekeeper of the family. "Let's work it out like civil people." But, when someone you love is hurt, verbally or otherwise, you jump right in and defend them to the moon and back.
Now you know!
Thanks for reading.
Carey
Thursday, September 11, 2014
September Writing Challenge- Day 11
Prompt- What was this day in 2001 like for you?
When I was planning these prompts, I came across this one worded slightly differently and I debated it for today. I thought, 9/11, of course. But, would it be cliche? Because a lot of people are probably writing about this day and how it changed their lives. But, then I thought, that's sad that I would even consider it being cliche. Because it's not. It's a day that we should continue to remember, like Pearl Harbor or Oklahoma City. Because, while it is a tragedy, it impacted the world in so many ways and, maybe for a brief moment, brought people together under a cause.
Over the years, some of the details have faded in my memory but I know where I was and what I was doing on that horrible day. I was a senior in high school. I left my first class to set up banners from the day before. The 9th grade retreat was that Monday and there were banners and crafts the freshmen class had created so some of the retreat team were displaying them in the cafeteria for the rest of the school to see. When I returned to my class to get my books, they were airing when the President was informed at the school in Florida. I didn't know what was going on until I got to my second class, which was Web Design. My teacher filled me in and had the news on, as long as we promised to try and get our work done.
And, that was when we saw the second tower get hit and then they both fell. It was the most frightening thing I had ever seen in my 17 years of life. I remembered reading a story about a clothing factory in New York that caught fire in the early years of the last century and how the girls trapped inside were leaping from the window because the elevator didn't work. Everyone above where the planes hit, they had no way out and some did jump. And, the people who were still making their way down when the towers fell. My next thought was, "Oh, dear God, be with all those people trapped inside and now dying!" I couldn't focus on my work. I was fixated to the screen. I prayed harder than I ever prayed in my life. I was scared for all those people. I was scared about what would happen next. When we heard about the Pentagon, I was worried about where something would happen next. And, later that day to find the plane that crashed in PA was in Cleveland!
The day passed by in a blur. My remaining third class, choir, we couldn't watch anything. But, my final class, we watched the news. When the bell rang at 2:30, I went to catch my bus but my mom was there to get me. We picked up my sister and went home. After dinner, we watched the news while doing homework and then we all curled up on the couch together like when we were little. I think I remember my sister asking why this happened and the only explanation my parents could give was that there are some evil people in the world who don't want the rest of us to be happy. They want people to be scared. Makes them feel powerful. It was as good an explanation as any to a 17 and 12 year old, I guess.
But, then, when Congress gathered on the steps of the Capitol and sang God Bless America... together, forgetting differences in party and opinion, I remembered that good exists and what we need to work on doing is make sure the good always outweighs the evil.
I know that can be hard when there are organizations of hate like ISIS in the Mid East and the Klan here. When children are committing suicide for being gay or an autistic boy is having human waste dumped on him in a sadistic prank when he thought he was doing the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. When football athletes, who are viewed as role models for young boys, beat their spouses. Certain organizations who are supposed to follow Christian teachings protest funerals of soldiers and say they are going to hell because they fought for their country. Stories like that seem to flood our headlines and it makes the world into a frightening place to be. I've often caught myself saying, I don't think I want to bring children into a world like this. But, then I see the joy in my best friend's toddler when he's playing with my boyfriend on our occasional visits. I get a hug from a little girl who sees me every day in the store. I see organizations like NOH8, the No Body Shame Campaign, and Eliminate Prejudice all fighting for equality and against bullying based on gender, orientation, body type, race, and religion/beliefs. If only those positive things received more press than the negative.
If we could focus on the good, it would not eliminate the bad but it maybe it would help future generations see there are better ways to spend their time and better causes to fight for.
Thanks for reading.
Carey
When I was planning these prompts, I came across this one worded slightly differently and I debated it for today. I thought, 9/11, of course. But, would it be cliche? Because a lot of people are probably writing about this day and how it changed their lives. But, then I thought, that's sad that I would even consider it being cliche. Because it's not. It's a day that we should continue to remember, like Pearl Harbor or Oklahoma City. Because, while it is a tragedy, it impacted the world in so many ways and, maybe for a brief moment, brought people together under a cause.
Over the years, some of the details have faded in my memory but I know where I was and what I was doing on that horrible day. I was a senior in high school. I left my first class to set up banners from the day before. The 9th grade retreat was that Monday and there were banners and crafts the freshmen class had created so some of the retreat team were displaying them in the cafeteria for the rest of the school to see. When I returned to my class to get my books, they were airing when the President was informed at the school in Florida. I didn't know what was going on until I got to my second class, which was Web Design. My teacher filled me in and had the news on, as long as we promised to try and get our work done.
And, that was when we saw the second tower get hit and then they both fell. It was the most frightening thing I had ever seen in my 17 years of life. I remembered reading a story about a clothing factory in New York that caught fire in the early years of the last century and how the girls trapped inside were leaping from the window because the elevator didn't work. Everyone above where the planes hit, they had no way out and some did jump. And, the people who were still making their way down when the towers fell. My next thought was, "Oh, dear God, be with all those people trapped inside and now dying!" I couldn't focus on my work. I was fixated to the screen. I prayed harder than I ever prayed in my life. I was scared for all those people. I was scared about what would happen next. When we heard about the Pentagon, I was worried about where something would happen next. And, later that day to find the plane that crashed in PA was in Cleveland!
The day passed by in a blur. My remaining third class, choir, we couldn't watch anything. But, my final class, we watched the news. When the bell rang at 2:30, I went to catch my bus but my mom was there to get me. We picked up my sister and went home. After dinner, we watched the news while doing homework and then we all curled up on the couch together like when we were little. I think I remember my sister asking why this happened and the only explanation my parents could give was that there are some evil people in the world who don't want the rest of us to be happy. They want people to be scared. Makes them feel powerful. It was as good an explanation as any to a 17 and 12 year old, I guess.
But, then, when Congress gathered on the steps of the Capitol and sang God Bless America... together, forgetting differences in party and opinion, I remembered that good exists and what we need to work on doing is make sure the good always outweighs the evil.
I know that can be hard when there are organizations of hate like ISIS in the Mid East and the Klan here. When children are committing suicide for being gay or an autistic boy is having human waste dumped on him in a sadistic prank when he thought he was doing the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. When football athletes, who are viewed as role models for young boys, beat their spouses. Certain organizations who are supposed to follow Christian teachings protest funerals of soldiers and say they are going to hell because they fought for their country. Stories like that seem to flood our headlines and it makes the world into a frightening place to be. I've often caught myself saying, I don't think I want to bring children into a world like this. But, then I see the joy in my best friend's toddler when he's playing with my boyfriend on our occasional visits. I get a hug from a little girl who sees me every day in the store. I see organizations like NOH8, the No Body Shame Campaign, and Eliminate Prejudice all fighting for equality and against bullying based on gender, orientation, body type, race, and religion/beliefs. If only those positive things received more press than the negative.
If we could focus on the good, it would not eliminate the bad but it maybe it would help future generations see there are better ways to spend their time and better causes to fight for.
Thanks for reading.
Carey
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