Allison Tebo's Blog, page 18
June 13, 2017
The Reluctant Godfather Blog Tour – Day 2
Welcome, my mighty followers to day 2 of The Reluctant Godfather’s Blog Tour!
Today’s lovely blog tour participants are . . .
Karyssa (No Coffee, No Can Do) – Spotlight / Review / Interview.
Faith (The Writer’s Song) – Spotlight / Review.
And whatever you do, don’t pass up on the free stuff on this giveaway!
~ Alli
June 12, 2017
The Reluctant Godfather Blog Tour – Day 1
BUM-BUDDA-BUM!!!! Hi everybody, and welcome to day one of The Reluctant Godfather’s blog tour!
Here are today’s blog tour very awesome participants.
Jane (Maiden Of The Misty Mountain) – Spotlight / Review.
Christine (Musings of an Elf) – Spotlight / Review.
And don’t forget to enter the giveaway here to win some bee-u-tee-ful prizes!
~ Alli
June 11, 2017
21 Fun, Spoiler Free Facts About The Reluctant Godfather
This post was inspired by Victoria Lynn, my fellow author and friend – I loved the idea for this post and I wanted to take a try at it. But I do have 4 less facts then she did – my book is shorter.
And now – let us kick off a WHOLE week of The Reluctant Godfather with some fun and facts!
1. When I first started writing fifteen years ago, pretty much all I wrote was fairy tale retellings – but then I largely abandoned them to move onto more ‘serious’ works. Ironically, things have come full circle again and I’m focusing on fairy tales again – the place I loved and had forgotten. It’s nice to be home again.
2. I always appreciated the beauty and allegorical possibilities of fairy tales – but ‘The Reluctant Godfather’ has taught me afresh how sweet fairy tales are — that they are no less important than any other genre — and a pleasant and lovely rest (for readers and writers alike) from harder styles.
3. The Reluctant Godfather trained me to write more succinctly and ultimately create a stronger narrative. Before this, I mostly wrote 300 page + epics.
4. The Reluctant Godfather has suggested to me that I am actually happier and more comfortable writing shorter works.
5. The rough draft took me 3 weeks to write.
6. I got the idea for the story the night I returned from visiting the Ark Encounter. No connection, obviously.
7. Like Burndee—I love to bake.
8. I originally had no intention of writing a sequel.
9. But after getting enthusiastic feedback encouraging me to write more – bang! – the ideas for seven sequels all began tumbling into my mind.
10. The Reluctant Godfather came to me at one time—almost completely intact in my head—all I had to do was right it down.
11. Reading Nicole Sager for the first time last summer really inspired me, and I credit her example as being one of people that really encouraged me to ‘go for it’ and actually publish.
12. This is the first story that has ever been shown or seen by anyone outside of my immediate five family members.
13. My original suggestions for a cover was something like – “black with lots of fancy swirling things, sophisticated” – obviously a little vague. But I am so happy with how my beautiful cover turned out! Victoria Lynn did a fabulous job.
14. Amazon kept rejecting my cover and it took me days to sort out the problem. I had so much trouble uploading it I nearly went with an alternate design for the cover – but, fortunately, it all got sorted out.
15. Prince Colin appears to have a ‘love ’em or leave ’em’ effect on readers. You’ll have to read it yourself to decide whether you love him or not.
And now – let us kick off a WHOLE week of The Reluctant Godfather with some fun and facts!
1. When I first started writing fifteen years ago, pretty much all I wrote was fairy tale retellings – but then I largely abandoned them to move onto more ‘serious’ works. Ironically, things have come full circle again and I’m focusing on fairy tales again – the place I loved and had forgotten. It’s nice to be home again.
2. I always appreciated the beauty and allegorical possibilities of fairy tales – but ‘The Reluctant Godfather’ has taught me afresh how sweet fairy tales are — that they are no less important than any other genre — and a pleasant and lovely rest (for readers and writers alike) from harder styles.
3. The Reluctant Godfather trained me to write more succinctly and ultimately create a stronger narrative. Before this, I mostly wrote 300 page + epics.
4. The Reluctant Godfather has suggested to me that I am actually happier and more comfortable writing shorter works.
5. The rough draft took me 3 weeks to write.
6. I got the idea for the story the night I returned from visiting the Ark Encounter. No connection, obviously.
7. Like Burndee—I love to bake.
8. I originally had no intention of writing a sequel.
9. But after getting enthusiastic feedback encouraging me to write more – bang! – the ideas for seven sequels all began tumbling into my mind.
10. The Reluctant Godfather came to me at one time—almost completely intact in my head—all I had to do was right it down.
11. Reading Nicole Sager for the first time last summer really inspired me, and I credit her example as being one of people that really encouraged me to ‘go for it’ and actually publish.
12. This is the first story that has ever been shown or seen by anyone outside of my immediate five family members.
13. My original suggestions for a cover was something like – “black with lots of fancy swirling things, sophisticated” – obviously a little vague. But I am so happy with how my beautiful cover turned out! Victoria Lynn did a fabulous job.
14. Amazon kept rejecting my cover and it took me days to sort out the problem. I had so much trouble uploading it I nearly went with an alternate design for the cover – but, fortunately, it all got sorted out.
15. Prince Colin appears to have a ‘love ’em or leave ’em’ effect on readers. You’ll have to read it yourself to decide whether you love him or not.
21 Fun Spoiler Free Facts About The Reluctant Godfather
This post was inspired by Victoria Lynn, my fellow author and friend – I loved the idea for this post and I wanted to take a try at it. But I do have 4 less facts then she did – my book is shorter.
And now – let us kick off a WHOLE week of The Reluctant Godfather with some fun and facts!
1. When I first started writing fifteen years ago, pretty much all I wrote was fairy tale retellings – but then I largely abandoned them to move onto more ‘serious’ works. Ironically, things have come full circle again and I’m focusing on fairy tales again – the place I loved and had forgotten. It’s nice to be home again.
2. I always appreciated the beauty and allegorical possibilities of fairy tales – but The Reluctant Godfather has taught me afresh how sweet fairy tales are — that they are no less important than any other genre — and a pleasant and lovely rest (for readers and writers alike) from harder styles.
3. The Reluctant Godfather trained me to write more succinctly and ultimately create a stronger narrative. Before this, I mostly wrote 300 page + epics.
4. The Reluctant Godfather has suggested to me that I am actually happier and more comfortable writing shorter works.
5. The rough draft took me 3 weeks to write.
6. I got the idea for the story the night I returned from visiting the Ark Encounter. No connection, obviously.
7. Like Burndee—I love to bake.
8. I originally had no intention of writing a sequel.
9. But after getting enthusiastic feedback encouraging me to write more – bang! – the ideas for seven sequels all began tumbling into my mind.
10. The Reluctant Godfather came to me at one time—almost completely intact in my head—all I had to do was right it down.
11. Reading Nicole Sager for the first time last summer really inspired me, and I credit her example as being the one of people that really encouraged me to ‘go for it’ and actually publish.
12. This is the first story that has ever been shown or seen by anyone outside of my immediate five family members.
13. My original suggestions for a cover was something like – “black with lots of fancy swirling things, sophisticated” – obviously a little vague. But I am so happy with how my beautiful cover turned out! Victoria Lynn did a fabulous job.
14. Amazon kept rejecting my cover and it took me days to sort out the problem. I had so much trouble uploading it I nearly went with an alternate design for the cover – but, fortunately, it all got sorted out.
15. Prince Colin appears to have a ‘love ’em or leave ’em’ effect on readers. You’ll have to read it yourself to decide whether you love him or not.
And now – let us kick off a WHOLE week of The Reluctant Godfather with some fun and facts!
1. When I first started writing fifteen years ago, pretty much all I wrote was fairy tale retellings – but then I largely abandoned them to move onto more ‘serious’ works. Ironically, things have come full circle again and I’m focusing on fairy tales again – the place I loved and had forgotten. It’s nice to be home again.
2. I always appreciated the beauty and allegorical possibilities of fairy tales – but The Reluctant Godfather has taught me afresh how sweet fairy tales are — that they are no less important than any other genre — and a pleasant and lovely rest (for readers and writers alike) from harder styles.
3. The Reluctant Godfather trained me to write more succinctly and ultimately create a stronger narrative. Before this, I mostly wrote 300 page + epics.
4. The Reluctant Godfather has suggested to me that I am actually happier and more comfortable writing shorter works.
5. The rough draft took me 3 weeks to write.
6. I got the idea for the story the night I returned from visiting the Ark Encounter. No connection, obviously.
7. Like Burndee—I love to bake.
8. I originally had no intention of writing a sequel.
9. But after getting enthusiastic feedback encouraging me to write more – bang! – the ideas for seven sequels all began tumbling into my mind.
10. The Reluctant Godfather came to me at one time—almost completely intact in my head—all I had to do was right it down.
11. Reading Nicole Sager for the first time last summer really inspired me, and I credit her example as being the one of people that really encouraged me to ‘go for it’ and actually publish.
12. This is the first story that has ever been shown or seen by anyone outside of my immediate five family members.
13. My original suggestions for a cover was something like – “black with lots of fancy swirling things, sophisticated” – obviously a little vague. But I am so happy with how my beautiful cover turned out! Victoria Lynn did a fabulous job.
14. Amazon kept rejecting my cover and it took me days to sort out the problem. I had so much trouble uploading it I nearly went with an alternate design for the cover – but, fortunately, it all got sorted out.
15. Prince Colin appears to have a ‘love ’em or leave ’em’ effect on readers. You’ll have to read it yourself to decide whether you love him or not.
June 6, 2017
The Reluctant Godfather Giveaway – Win A Signed Paperback and More!
Allison’s Well Presents . . .
The Reluctant Godfather Giveaway!
Over $50.00 in prizes! I am so excited to be hosting my very first giveaway and I can’t wait to see who the lucky winner is!
Grand Prize:
The Grand Prize Winner receives a signed paperback of The Reluctant Godfather, a The Reluctant Godfather Tee Shirt, and a Burndee Is The Best mug.
Prize # 2.
Receives a signed paperback of The Reluctant Godfather, a Tales of Ambia spiral-ring notebook and a surprise chocolate bar.
HOW TO ENTER:
1. Follow my blog (1 point) and notify me you did so in the comments below.
2. Subscribe to my author website (1 point) and notify me that you did so in the comments below.
3. Share this giveaway on social media, (facebook, twitter, pinterest, instagram, goodreads) (1 point per platform) and notify me you did so in the comments below.
4. Add my book as “want to read” on Goodreads . (1 point) and notify me that you did so in the comments.
5. Recommend my book to five friends who have not already marked it as ‘to read’ (1 point).
6. If you have already read The Reluctant Godfather, leave a quick review on Goodreads (1 point) and/or Amazon (1 point).
If you have already followed my blog or authors site that will count as a point and if you have already read The Reluctant Godfather that will also count as a point – just please confirm it in the comments.
The Reluctant Godfather Giveaway!
Over $50.00 in prizes! I am so excited to be hosting my very first giveaway and I can’t wait to see who the lucky winner is!
Grand Prize:
The Grand Prize Winner receives a signed paperback of The Reluctant Godfather, a The Reluctant Godfather Tee Shirt, and a Burndee Is The Best mug.
Prize # 2.
Receives a signed paperback of The Reluctant Godfather, a Tales of Ambia spiral-ring notebook and a surprise chocolate bar.
HOW TO ENTER:
1. Follow my blog (1 point) and notify me you did so in the comments below.
2. Subscribe to my author website (1 point) and notify me that you did so in the comments below.
3. Share this giveaway on social media, (facebook, twitter, pinterest, instagram, goodreads) (1 point per platform) and notify me you did so in the comments below.
4. Add my book as “want to read” on Goodreads . (1 point) and notify me that you did so in the comments.
5. Recommend my book to five friends who have not already marked it as ‘to read’ (1 point).
6. If you have already read The Reluctant Godfather, leave a quick review on Goodreads (1 point) and/or Amazon (1 point).
If you have already followed my blog or authors site that will count as a point and if you have already read The Reluctant Godfather that will also count as a point – just please confirm it in the comments.
June 2, 2017
The Prodigal Has Returned
‘pops out of woodwork with a swirl of confetti’ HELLO PEOPLE! YOU ALL LOOK VERY FAMILIAR!
Did you miss me? I missed all of you – a LOT.
A lots been happening at the Well since I last saw you – most notably the new Well – courtesy of Paul Willis. I am very excited to be launching this new blog and to finally be going the conventional route of blogging instead of the cockamamie setup I had for the old blog.
So – welcome to my new Well. And thank you, thank you, thank you to all you original subscribers who stuck with me though my initial stumbling and bumbling – you guys are the best!
And so here we go – the first post on this new blog. Hold your nose and dive right in with me!
The Reluctant Godfather is now available in paperback!
The Road to Paperbacks was a long and ardeous journey fraught with frustrations, near-death experiences, and temper tantrums. But by the grace of God and the help of my patient family (especially my tech brother and sister who lifted me over the humps) – I can now hold my bee-yoo-tee-ful paperback in my hands and hug it. Though actually, I must confess that I didn’t really freak out much when I got my first copy – it was more like quiet excitement. The whole scenario is extremely unreal to me and my frustratingly busy little brain instead of letting me revel in the moment – checked it off my mental to-do list and moved on clinically to the next project. But I’m making myself enjoy this.
But honestly, it’s more of a weird feeling than an exciting feeling – the only part that really hit home was realizing that not only people from all over the United States are reading The Reluctant Godfather, it has been read in Canada, Great Britain and Australia. Just yesterday a friend of my Dad asked me to send a signed copy of my book to his great niece in Hawaii.
I suppose I had thought that I was going to be doing the victory Can-Can nonstop at this point – but it’s really more like a slowly burgeoning shock or a faint glow of gratification for finishing what I started – none of the wild emotion that I”m usually known for – I save that for broken pencils, bugs, milkshakes and the latest Star Wars movie, apparently.
But seriously – I am truly grateful for all that has happened, God has blessed me so much by bringing me to this place where I can move ahead with the work he has given me in an group of people who have received me so warmly and kindly. I am very thankful and I’m excited about moving ahead on this amazing new path.
Had my first experience in actually being face to face with somebody while one of my proud family members told them about my book.
Finally Completed My Interview For Homeschooled Authors.com.
‘coughs’ I said I would do that how long ago?
Anyway – it’s done – and I can’t wait to officially join the website! That’s been a dream of my for a long time.
Opened a Zazzle store.
That’s right! After months of talking about it – I finally DID IT. I am so excited to be revealing some of my own products – especially my Tales of Ambia fan merchandise.
Joined my cabin for July’s Camp Nano.
One word. Psyched.
Witnessed RoogleWood Press’ Fairytale Contest Announcement.
I was the first one to comment on the Facebook post! – just wanted to say that, ‘grins and accepts the pathetic accolades that statement produces’. ALSO – I guessed CORRECTLY. I predicted that Snow White would be the next fairy tale. ‘bows and accepts slightly less pathetic accolades’.
Seriously, I was so excited for this announcement and was literally on pins and needles the day before. Checking Facebook was the first thing I did on June 1st and I was sitting there staring at my account when the cover update appeared. ‘cue excited screaming’ – now, all I have to do is unsnarl all the vague ideas scrambling madly about in my head.
Oh yeah – and actually WRITE THE STORY. Haha. Hahaaaa. ‘weak chuckle dies slowly away’
Finally bought a ‘Little Black Dress’.
Yet another fashion life goal completed. ‘fashionista fist pump’
I finally reached what my Mom called ‘Hair Nirvana’.
For years I have tried every hair length and style on record – from halfway down my back to a cropped cut that was as short as my Dad’s hair. I have finally settled on a happy medium that I really like and I’m actually KEEPING. Seriously, this is an ‘epoch in my life’. Ladies, you understand.
Published The Key to the Chains –
I am super excited that I had this story ready to publish right after The Reluctant Godfather released so that I would have a chance to contrast my two very different writing styles. It’s so great to have that one ‘out and about’ and it was so much fun to write.
I finally watched Rogue One.
My sweet brother and Star Wars Buddy had a date night with me and administered a great many comforting pats throughout the movie. Not to mention laughing at my reactions.
My reaction in GIFS.
WARNING SPOILERS AHEAD.
While I have never seen a movie that did heroic deaths so beautifully as Rogue one did. . . .
I JUST WANTED THEM ALL TO LIVE, OKAY?
They did it well, they did it brilliantly BUT –
I WANTED AT LEAST JYN AND CASSIAN TO FLY AWAY INTO THE SUNSET. And get married and have lots of little Jyn’s and Cassian’s . . .
Anyway – I could go on and on about how wonderful Rogue One was – I was gobsmacked. The script, the story, the visuals, the acting, the EDITING was some of the best editing I’ve seen in years.
And can we just have a moment to appreciate how cool Cassian is?
Did you miss me? I missed all of you – a LOT.
A lots been happening at the Well since I last saw you – most notably the new Well – courtesy of Paul Willis. I am very excited to be launching this new blog and to finally be going the conventional route of blogging instead of the cockamamie setup I had for the old blog.
So – welcome to my new Well. And thank you, thank you, thank you to all you original subscribers who stuck with me though my initial stumbling and bumbling – you guys are the best!
And so here we go – the first post on this new blog. Hold your nose and dive right in with me!
The Reluctant Godfather is now available in paperback!
The Road to Paperbacks was a long and ardeous journey fraught with frustrations, near-death experiences, and temper tantrums. But by the grace of God and the help of my patient family (especially my tech brother and sister who lifted me over the humps) – I can now hold my bee-yoo-tee-ful paperback in my hands and hug it. Though actually, I must confess that I didn’t really freak out much when I got my first copy – it was more like quiet excitement. The whole scenario is extremely unreal to me and my frustratingly busy little brain instead of letting me revel in the moment – checked it off my mental to-do list and moved on clinically to the next project. But I’m making myself enjoy this.
But honestly, it’s more of a weird feeling than an exciting feeling – the only part that really hit home was realizing that not only people from all over the United States are reading The Reluctant Godfather, it has been read in Canada, Great Britain and Australia. Just yesterday a friend of my Dad asked me to send a signed copy of my book to his great niece in Hawaii.
I suppose I had thought that I was going to be doing the victory Can-Can nonstop at this point – but it’s really more like a slowly burgeoning shock or a faint glow of gratification for finishing what I started – none of the wild emotion that I”m usually known for – I save that for broken pencils, bugs, milkshakes and the latest Star Wars movie, apparently.
But seriously – I am truly grateful for all that has happened, God has blessed me so much by bringing me to this place where I can move ahead with the work he has given me in an group of people who have received me so warmly and kindly. I am very thankful and I’m excited about moving ahead on this amazing new path.
Had my first experience in actually being face to face with somebody while one of my proud family members told them about my book.
Finally Completed My Interview For Homeschooled Authors.com.
‘coughs’ I said I would do that how long ago?
Anyway – it’s done – and I can’t wait to officially join the website! That’s been a dream of my for a long time.
Opened a Zazzle store.
That’s right! After months of talking about it – I finally DID IT. I am so excited to be revealing some of my own products – especially my Tales of Ambia fan merchandise.
Joined my cabin for July’s Camp Nano.
One word. Psyched.
Witnessed RoogleWood Press’ Fairytale Contest Announcement.
I was the first one to comment on the Facebook post! – just wanted to say that, ‘grins and accepts the pathetic accolades that statement produces’. ALSO – I guessed CORRECTLY. I predicted that Snow White would be the next fairy tale. ‘bows and accepts slightly less pathetic accolades’.
Seriously, I was so excited for this announcement and was literally on pins and needles the day before. Checking Facebook was the first thing I did on June 1st and I was sitting there staring at my account when the cover update appeared. ‘cue excited screaming’ – now, all I have to do is unsnarl all the vague ideas scrambling madly about in my head.
Oh yeah – and actually WRITE THE STORY. Haha. Hahaaaa. ‘weak chuckle dies slowly away’
Finally bought a ‘Little Black Dress’.
Yet another fashion life goal completed. ‘fashionista fist pump’
I finally reached what my Mom called ‘Hair Nirvana’.
For years I have tried every hair length and style on record – from halfway down my back to a cropped cut that was as short as my Dad’s hair. I have finally settled on a happy medium that I really like and I’m actually KEEPING. Seriously, this is an ‘epoch in my life’. Ladies, you understand.
Published The Key to the Chains –
I am super excited that I had this story ready to publish right after The Reluctant Godfather released so that I would have a chance to contrast my two very different writing styles. It’s so great to have that one ‘out and about’ and it was so much fun to write.
I finally watched Rogue One.
My sweet brother and Star Wars Buddy had a date night with me and administered a great many comforting pats throughout the movie. Not to mention laughing at my reactions.
My reaction in GIFS.
WARNING SPOILERS AHEAD.
While I have never seen a movie that did heroic deaths so beautifully as Rogue one did. . . .
I JUST WANTED THEM ALL TO LIVE, OKAY?
They did it well, they did it brilliantly BUT –
I WANTED AT LEAST JYN AND CASSIAN TO FLY AWAY INTO THE SUNSET. And get married and have lots of little Jyn’s and Cassian’s . . .
Anyway – I could go on and on about how wonderful Rogue One was – I was gobsmacked. The script, the story, the visuals, the acting, the EDITING was some of the best editing I’ve seen in years.
And can we just have a moment to appreciate how cool Cassian is?
May 28, 2017
Nutshells, Hiatus, and Saying Goodbye To Perfectionism
April in a Nutshell
Hey people! No long introduction this time – just diving straight into the nutshell.
Are you ready? Hold onto your hats!
1. I nailed my Camp NaNo goal of 30,000 words.
*takes it in for a moment*
Coming out of the deep, slimy pit of writer’s block – writing 30,033 words felt pretty good! A week into April, I realized I had to change my goal a little; I recognized that I was not going to be able to get any ‘useful’ writing done–i.e. writing on my current projects–April had to be devoted solely to ‘Breaking the Block’, flexing a writing muscle that had gone largely unused after several months of editing.
So that’s what I did. I changed my NaNo title to ‘Breaking the Block’, stuck to the word count, and started sprinting with picture prompts. These two things were like magic, I started spraying words like buckshot. It was fabulous to just let my imagination start pulling stories and scenarios out of thin air and force my fingers to go.
The dam of writing words seems to have broken, now to start chipping away at the dam of actual cohesive story plotting and planning. ‘plants Viking helmet firmly on top of head and practices steely look’
Joining Nano was a last minute, split second decision – and I am so grateful that I did, as I believe the Lord – who cares about every part of my life – led me to join and helped me to get back on track with my writing. I’m very grateful.
I bought my first pair of red shoes! RED SHOES! Yes, this is a mile-marker in life, for fashion divas!
I even got a pair of orange shoes! Ah! Fashion Paradise!
Aren’t they sweet and cute and utterly delightful? ‘minces about the room in new shoes’
Released two new songs to my Youtube Channel.
Hiatuses
Anyway, May will be devoted largely to my three biggest projects – publishing The Keys to the Chains, releasing the paperback of The Reluctant Godfather – and moving Allison’s Well to WordPress. Three technical monsters I do not relish tackling. *gulps*
Instead, I entered it….like this –
Hey people! No long introduction this time – just diving straight into the nutshell.
Are you ready? Hold onto your hats!
1. I nailed my Camp NaNo goal of 30,000 words.
*takes it in for a moment*
Coming out of the deep, slimy pit of writer’s block – writing 30,033 words felt pretty good! A week into April, I realized I had to change my goal a little; I recognized that I was not going to be able to get any ‘useful’ writing done–i.e. writing on my current projects–April had to be devoted solely to ‘Breaking the Block’, flexing a writing muscle that had gone largely unused after several months of editing.
So that’s what I did. I changed my NaNo title to ‘Breaking the Block’, stuck to the word count, and started sprinting with picture prompts. These two things were like magic, I started spraying words like buckshot. It was fabulous to just let my imagination start pulling stories and scenarios out of thin air and force my fingers to go.
The dam of writing words seems to have broken, now to start chipping away at the dam of actual cohesive story plotting and planning. ‘plants Viking helmet firmly on top of head and practices steely look’
Joining Nano was a last minute, split second decision – and I am so grateful that I did, as I believe the Lord – who cares about every part of my life – led me to join and helped me to get back on track with my writing. I’m very grateful.
I bought my first pair of red shoes! RED SHOES! Yes, this is a mile-marker in life, for fashion divas!
I even got a pair of orange shoes! Ah! Fashion Paradise!
Aren’t they sweet and cute and utterly delightful? ‘minces about the room in new shoes’
Released two new songs to my Youtube Channel.
Reached 16 subscribers on my Youtube channel and . . . *drum roll* . . . 35 subscribers to my blog!
Which is wonderful – and leads me to my other news – which isn’t quite so nice. My Hiatus.
Hiatuses
Hiatus: a break or interruption in the continuity of a work, series, action, etc.
That’s right – I will not be blogging for the Merry Month of May.
Please don’t panic and please don’t stop following me – I’m not going anywhere. Well actually, my blog IS going somewhere. I have officially decided to move my blog over from Weebly to WordPress. No more wonky formatting, new posts will appear MAGICALLY, direct to YOUR inbox – I’m going mainstream.
Even though I’ve hired someone who knows what they’re doing to help me, I’m very, very intimidated at having to learn a new program. Trying to navigate Weebly all by myself was terrible – and the first glimpse I had of WordPress’ dashboard looks like a nightmare. Everything in me is screaming one thing . . .
Anyway, May will be devoted largely to my three biggest projects – publishing The Keys to the Chains, releasing the paperback of The Reluctant Godfather – and moving Allison’s Well to WordPress. Three technical monsters I do not relish tackling. *gulps*
These three goals are going to be nearly all-consuming challenges, thus, I must focus.
As much as I hate to take a break from blogging – it was be silly to keep creating fresh material that would just have to be transferred over to my new blog – or at least – I think it would be counter-productive.
At first, I thought I couldn’t take a blogging hiatus – at least not yet. I’ve only been blogging since November of 2016 – that’s not long enough. I had this idea at the back of my head that the Blogging Police might come and round me up for breaking some kind of law.
Which brings me to the final part of this post.
Goodbye Perfectionism –
Great expectations….no matter how hard I try…this wave of emotion overtakes nearly everything I do….a mixture of fear and excitement…an almost agonizing swarm of thoughts and dreams overwhelming my present moment . . . and most of these dreams and anticipations are entirely unrealistic.
For instance, I wanted to enter the blogging world like this –
Instead, I entered it….like this –
In short . . . I want to be perfect. Or at least epic. 
April 29, 2017
Nutshells, Hiatus, and Saying Goodbye To Perfectionism
April in a Nutshell
Hey people! No long introduction this time - just diving straight into the nutshell.
Are you ready? Hold onto your hats!
1. I nailed my Camp NaNo goal of 30,000 words.
*takes it in for a moment*
Coming out of the deep, slimy pit of writer's block - writing 30,033 words felt pretty good! A week into April, I realized I had to change my goal a little; I recognized that I was not going to be able to get any 'useful' writing done--i.e. writing on my current projects--April had to be devoted solely to 'Breaking the Block', flexing a writing muscle that had gone largely unused after several months of editing.
So that's what I did. I changed my NaNo title to 'Breaking the Block', stuck to the word count, and started sprinting with picture prompts. These two things were like magic, I started spraying words like buckshot. It was fabulous to just let my imagination start pulling stories and scenarios out of thin air and force my fingers to go.
The dam of writing words seems to have broken, now to start chipping away at the dam of actual cohesive story plotting and planning. 'plants Viking helmet firmly on top of head and practices steely look'
Joining Nano was a last minute, split second decision - and I am so grateful that I did, as I believe the Lord - who cares about every part of my life - led me to join and helped me to get back on track with my writing. I'm very grateful.
I bought my first pair of red shoes! RED SHOES! Yes, this is a mile-marker in life, for fashion divas!
I even got a pair of orange shoes! Ah! Fashion Paradise!
Aren't they sweet and cute and utterly delightful? 'minces about the room in new shoes'
Released two new songs to my Youtube Channel.
Reached 16 subscribers on my Youtube channel and . . . *drum roll* . . . 35 subscribers to my blog!
Which is wonderful - and leads me to my other news - which isn't quite so nice. My Hiatus.
Hiatuses
Hiatus: a break or interruption in the continuity of a work, series, action, etc.
That's right - I will not be blogging for the Merry Month of May.
Please don't panic and please don't stop following me - I'm not going anywhere. Well actually, my blog IS going somewhere. I have officially decided to move my blog over from Weebly to Wordpress. No more wonky formatting, new posts will appear MAGICALLY, direct to YOUR inbox - I'm going mainstream.
Even though I've hired someone who knows what they're doing to help me, I'm very, very intimidated at having to learn a new program. Trying to navigate Weebly all by myself was terrible - and the first glimpse I had of Wordpress' dashboard looks like a nightmare. Everything in me is screaming one thing . . .
Anyway, May will be devoted largely to my three biggest projects - publishing The Keys to the Chains, releasing the paperback of The Reluctant Godfather - and moving Allison's Well to Wordpress. Three technical monsters I do not relish tackling. *gulps*
These three goals are going to be nearly all-consuming challenges, thus, I must focus.
As much as I hate to take a break from blogging - it was be silly to keep creating fresh material that would just have to be transferred over to my new blog - or at least - I think it would be counter-productive.
At first, I thought I couldn't take a blogging hiatus - at least not yet. I've only been blogging since November of 2016 - that's not long enough. I had this idea at the back of my head that the Blogging Police might come and round me up for breaking some kind of law.
Which brings me to the final part of this post.
Goodbye Perfectionism - Great expectations....no matter how hard I try...this wave of emotion overtakes nearly everything I do....a mixture of fear and excitement...an almost agonizing swarm of thoughts and dreams overwhelming my present moment . . . and most of these dreams and anticipations are entirely unrealistic.
For instance, I wanted to enter the blogging world like this -
Instead, I entered it....like this -
In short . . . I want to be perfect. Or at least epic. :D
But I don't have to be. Not only are there no blogging police, I have not failed the world, or God, or even myself by having a less than perfect start to my blog.
God doesn't make errors, he has no mistakes to regret, no missed opportunities to yearn for - humans do, and I believe that is natural - a natural part of our fallen state. At one point, human beings were perfect and faultless - and yearning to be so is a whisper to every human heart - a remembrance of what we once had with God - so that we will look forward to what He promises to give us again.
But only God can give that perfection - and it is a perfection for my eternal soul. I will never, ever be perfect in this life - and not only is it foolish in the light of eternity to sweat the little things, they help me grow closer to my final destination.
And I have grown with Allison's Well. I have now been blogging for six months, posting for the first time to the Well in late November. It’s been an amazing ride.
I have enjoyed this first bucketful of water mightily—and I hope to lower my line even deeper into the well the Lord has given me in the years to come. I have had have another thing in my life to discipline me, as I strive to post regularly. My blog has forced me to look at everything with fresh eyes, eager to see potential in the smallest happenstance, ready to hear a voice—the Voice—in everything around me. My imagination has been sharpened as I look not only with new eyes at my life but push myself to meet deadlines.
My well has broadened horizons not only for myself, but my whole family. I have met amazing, and wonderful people. I have been able to speak words of affirmation to people, and then received blessings back.
I have learned many things from this blog, mental, emotional and spiritual; wonderful lessons that I hope continue to expand inside me, so that I might grow and share them.
It hasn’t been perfect, there’s been dry spells, and disappointments - but these small things have been so outweighed by the good that it is truly astonishing – God has blessed me so much with Allison’s Well – and it is my great hope that Allison’s Well has blessed in you in some small way as well.
So, goodbye perfection - hello life! I'm going at you life, full tilt, as fast as I can.
Dear Perfection -
I expect that I shall still see a great deal more of you throughout my life - you are the sort of guest that likes to bother its' host. But I really doubt I'll see you on Allison's Well again.
I'm off on an adventure and I have to pack lightly - there's no room for you in my luggage.
Kindly go visit someone else - you've worn out your welcome on Allison's Well. And believe me, this blog is no place for you - I'm having too much fun here to pay you any attention now.
Sincerely,
Allison
Hey people! No long introduction this time - just diving straight into the nutshell.
Are you ready? Hold onto your hats!1. I nailed my Camp NaNo goal of 30,000 words.
*takes it in for a moment* Coming out of the deep, slimy pit of writer's block - writing 30,033 words felt pretty good! A week into April, I realized I had to change my goal a little; I recognized that I was not going to be able to get any 'useful' writing done--i.e. writing on my current projects--April had to be devoted solely to 'Breaking the Block', flexing a writing muscle that had gone largely unused after several months of editing.So that's what I did. I changed my NaNo title to 'Breaking the Block', stuck to the word count, and started sprinting with picture prompts. These two things were like magic, I started spraying words like buckshot. It was fabulous to just let my imagination start pulling stories and scenarios out of thin air and force my fingers to go.
The dam of writing words seems to have broken, now to start chipping away at the dam of actual cohesive story plotting and planning. 'plants Viking helmet firmly on top of head and practices steely look'
Joining Nano was a last minute, split second decision - and I am so grateful that I did, as I believe the Lord - who cares about every part of my life - led me to join and helped me to get back on track with my writing. I'm very grateful.
I bought my first pair of red shoes! RED SHOES! Yes, this is a mile-marker in life, for fashion divas!
I even got a pair of orange shoes! Ah! Fashion Paradise!
Aren't they sweet and cute and utterly delightful? 'minces about the room in new shoes'Released two new songs to my Youtube Channel.
Reached 16 subscribers on my Youtube channel and . . . *drum roll* . . . 35 subscribers to my blog!
Which is wonderful - and leads me to my other news - which isn't quite so nice. My Hiatus.
Hiatuses
Hiatus: a break or interruption in the continuity of a work, series, action, etc.
That's right - I will not be blogging for the Merry Month of May.
Please don't panic and please don't stop following me - I'm not going anywhere. Well actually, my blog IS going somewhere. I have officially decided to move my blog over from Weebly to Wordpress. No more wonky formatting, new posts will appear MAGICALLY, direct to YOUR inbox - I'm going mainstream.
Even though I've hired someone who knows what they're doing to help me, I'm very, very intimidated at having to learn a new program. Trying to navigate Weebly all by myself was terrible - and the first glimpse I had of Wordpress' dashboard looks like a nightmare. Everything in me is screaming one thing . . .
Anyway, May will be devoted largely to my three biggest projects - publishing The Keys to the Chains, releasing the paperback of The Reluctant Godfather - and moving Allison's Well to Wordpress. Three technical monsters I do not relish tackling. *gulps* These three goals are going to be nearly all-consuming challenges, thus, I must focus. As much as I hate to take a break from blogging - it was be silly to keep creating fresh material that would just have to be transferred over to my new blog - or at least - I think it would be counter-productive.
At first, I thought I couldn't take a blogging hiatus - at least not yet. I've only been blogging since November of 2016 - that's not long enough. I had this idea at the back of my head that the Blogging Police might come and round me up for breaking some kind of law.
Which brings me to the final part of this post.
Goodbye Perfectionism - Great expectations....no matter how hard I try...this wave of emotion overtakes nearly everything I do....a mixture of fear and excitement...an almost agonizing swarm of thoughts and dreams overwhelming my present moment . . . and most of these dreams and anticipations are entirely unrealistic.
For instance, I wanted to enter the blogging world like this -
Instead, I entered it....like this - In short . . . I want to be perfect. Or at least epic. :DBut I don't have to be. Not only are there no blogging police, I have not failed the world, or God, or even myself by having a less than perfect start to my blog.
God doesn't make errors, he has no mistakes to regret, no missed opportunities to yearn for - humans do, and I believe that is natural - a natural part of our fallen state. At one point, human beings were perfect and faultless - and yearning to be so is a whisper to every human heart - a remembrance of what we once had with God - so that we will look forward to what He promises to give us again.
But only God can give that perfection - and it is a perfection for my eternal soul. I will never, ever be perfect in this life - and not only is it foolish in the light of eternity to sweat the little things, they help me grow closer to my final destination.
And I have grown with Allison's Well. I have now been blogging for six months, posting for the first time to the Well in late November. It’s been an amazing ride.
I have enjoyed this first bucketful of water mightily—and I hope to lower my line even deeper into the well the Lord has given me in the years to come. I have had have another thing in my life to discipline me, as I strive to post regularly. My blog has forced me to look at everything with fresh eyes, eager to see potential in the smallest happenstance, ready to hear a voice—the Voice—in everything around me. My imagination has been sharpened as I look not only with new eyes at my life but push myself to meet deadlines.
My well has broadened horizons not only for myself, but my whole family. I have met amazing, and wonderful people. I have been able to speak words of affirmation to people, and then received blessings back.
I have learned many things from this blog, mental, emotional and spiritual; wonderful lessons that I hope continue to expand inside me, so that I might grow and share them.
It hasn’t been perfect, there’s been dry spells, and disappointments - but these small things have been so outweighed by the good that it is truly astonishing – God has blessed me so much with Allison’s Well – and it is my great hope that Allison’s Well has blessed in you in some small way as well.
So, goodbye perfection - hello life! I'm going at you life, full tilt, as fast as I can.
Dear Perfection -
I expect that I shall still see a great deal more of you throughout my life - you are the sort of guest that likes to bother its' host. But I really doubt I'll see you on Allison's Well again.
I'm off on an adventure and I have to pack lightly - there's no room for you in my luggage.
Kindly go visit someone else - you've worn out your welcome on Allison's Well. And believe me, this blog is no place for you - I'm having too much fun here to pay you any attention now.
Sincerely,
Allison
April 21, 2017
Over 80 Books In ONE Weekend – VLOG.
Here it is people! All the lovely details about my recent book haul – dozens of books in a single weekend – thanks to a massive library sale.
As you heard in a previous post – I am having massive technical difficulties with my video editing software. It was a plot. Somebody sabotaged me.
Consequently I couldn’t edit these clips together in a nice little vlog – I had to ‘stack them’ one by one. I was also unable to edit out *cough* some mistakes. *slinks away*
Well, this is not resting well with my inner editor and inner perfectionist AT ALL! So they’ll be coming along with us during this vlog, to comment, critique and clarify at convenient and inconvenient moments.
I need stronger glasses – I couldn’t see that one curl sticking straight out like a horn on a Viking helmet. I SHOULD HAVE USED A BUTTERFLY CLIP.
Why on earth, did I say that? What possessed me to make a special note of characters falling off cliffs (and my subsequent delight)? Now I sound like a nasty fruitcake. Oh well, you already knew I was a fruitcake.
Obviously, I have nothing against Mary Magdalene – it was this particularly actress that aggravated me – and I had some curiosity in seeing what on earth she was doing on a cliff in the first place. So . . . yeah. Doesn’t that clear things up nicely? ‘cautious smile’
And then I finish up this riveting clip by having tech problems. ‘hits button harder’
It is a VHS player, right? Or is a tape player? No, that’s for audio tapes – another caveman creation that has now gone the way of other outdated technology – which would be the trash can, or Alli’s storage.
The Land Before Time. *smiles* Oh, how I loved that show.
How do you know when your Dad isn’t easily embarrassed (thank goodness)? . . . when his eight year olds dispatch him to the video rental store to get the latest Land Before Time video. Oh right, a VIDEO RENTAL STORE – yeah, that was when a Red Box was the SIZE OF A WHOLE STORE and they had candy and snacks and human beings to help you check out your videos – and they had VHS tapes.
And YES, apparently that’s a very lame idea, since no one does it anymore.
Ugh! Someone turned on a sink faucet – those pipes sound so loud – like I’m about to be washed away! I wasn’t sure whether to laugh, or go beat up whoever was responsible.
If only I had know I would have been unable to edit these clips, I would have re-recorded that section . . . but I didn’t, so excuse me while I give a Charlie Brown ‘augh!’.
Oh, well. It’s not like I haven’t embarrassed myself on this blog before . . . right?
And by the way – no offense to teenagers! Some of my best friends in the world are teenagers. I didn’t say YOU had weird phases – I said I did. Just wanted to clear that up.
Who else likes Choose Your Own Adventure Books? I have lived a thousand life times in those books – I have been Indiana Jones – I’ve witnessed the parting of the Red Sea – I’ve met extra-terrestrials – I’ve done it all.
Of course, when I was Indy I was killed by bandits, when I was at the Red Sea I was caught by Egyptians who killed me because I had a smart mouth, and the extra-terrestrials probably turned me into a zombie – I don’t remember all the details now.
See how relaxing they are?
Tinkerbell – YES!!! I love those movies. I don’t care who knows it. I’m going to shout it loud and shout it proud. I LOVE TINKERBELL, ROSETTA, VIDIA, FAWN, IRIDESSA, SILVERMIST, PERIWINKLE, BOBBLE and CLANK! I love Pixie Hollow. I love the little animals. I love that they can fly. I love the stories. I love the dialogue. And the characters – did I mention the characters?
Why?
London in the Dark! If you don’t have a copy – well, you can find one HERE! See? I’m so excited I start tripping over my words!
https://youtu.be/MQzCyWybEnw
And of course – half an hour after I finished filming this, I was washing my hands looked in the mirror and suddenly blurted out: “DUST JACKETS!” Then my reflection started laughing at me. Oh I guess that was me – laughing at myself.
And I can’t believe I forgot to mention my very last book!
Unfortunately, the spare copy I picked up at the sale has a huge pink sticker on it that WILL NOT come off. Well it will, but it will take off half of the pretty cover with it.
As you heard in a previous post – I am having massive technical difficulties with my video editing software. It was a plot. Somebody sabotaged me.
Consequently I couldn’t edit these clips together in a nice little vlog – I had to ‘stack them’ one by one. I was also unable to edit out *cough* some mistakes. *slinks away*
Well, this is not resting well with my inner editor and inner perfectionist AT ALL! So they’ll be coming along with us during this vlog, to comment, critique and clarify at convenient and inconvenient moments.
My inner perfectionist and inner editor are pretty loud and cranky – sometimes they get sentimental and potter away down rabbit trails – so, brace yourself.
But anyway – ONTO THE BOOKS!
I need stronger glasses – I couldn’t see that one curl sticking straight out like a horn on a Viking helmet. I SHOULD HAVE USED A BUTTERFLY CLIP.
Why on earth, did I say that? What possessed me to make a special note of characters falling off cliffs (and my subsequent delight)? Now I sound like a nasty fruitcake. Oh well, you already knew I was a fruitcake.
Obviously, I have nothing against Mary Magdalene – it was this particularly actress that aggravated me – and I had some curiosity in seeing what on earth she was doing on a cliff in the first place. So . . . yeah. Doesn’t that clear things up nicely? ‘cautious smile’
And then I finish up this riveting clip by having tech problems. ‘hits button harder’
It is a VHS player, right? Or is a tape player? No, that’s for audio tapes – another caveman creation that has now gone the way of other outdated technology – which would be the trash can, or Alli’s storage.
The Land Before Time. *smiles* Oh, how I loved that show.
How do you know when your Dad isn’t easily embarrassed (thank goodness)? . . . when his eight year olds dispatch him to the video rental store to get the latest Land Before Time video. Oh right, a VIDEO RENTAL STORE – yeah, that was when a Red Box was the SIZE OF A WHOLE STORE and they had candy and snacks and human beings to help you check out your videos – and they had VHS tapes.
And YES, apparently that’s a very lame idea, since no one does it anymore.
Ugh! Someone turned on a sink faucet – those pipes sound so loud – like I’m about to be washed away! I wasn’t sure whether to laugh, or go beat up whoever was responsible.
If only I had know I would have been unable to edit these clips, I would have re-recorded that section . . . but I didn’t, so excuse me while I give a Charlie Brown ‘augh!’.
Oh, well. It’s not like I haven’t embarrassed myself on this blog before . . . right?
And by the way – no offense to teenagers! Some of my best friends in the world are teenagers. I didn’t say YOU had weird phases – I said I did. Just wanted to clear that up.
Who else likes Choose Your Own Adventure Books? I have lived a thousand life times in those books – I have been Indiana Jones – I’ve witnessed the parting of the Red Sea – I’ve met extra-terrestrials – I’ve done it all.
Of course, when I was Indy I was killed by bandits, when I was at the Red Sea I was caught by Egyptians who killed me because I had a smart mouth, and the extra-terrestrials probably turned me into a zombie – I don’t remember all the details now.
See how relaxing they are?
Tinkerbell – YES!!! I love those movies. I don’t care who knows it. I’m going to shout it loud and shout it proud. I LOVE TINKERBELL, ROSETTA, VIDIA, FAWN, IRIDESSA, SILVERMIST, PERIWINKLE, BOBBLE and CLANK! I love Pixie Hollow. I love the little animals. I love that they can fly. I love the stories. I love the dialogue. And the characters – did I mention the characters?
Why?
That’s why.
And if you don’t like it well . . .
I’ll give you the LOOK.
Whoops! More technical problems! FLASH. Cover your eyes! You didn’t know you should have brought sunglasses to watch this, did you?
So if you like the Borrowers – you would love Tinkerbell. Just so you know. Yes, I am desperately hunting for fellow fans of this delightful (and I won’t hear a word to the contrary!) series. But i digress, I’m talking about movies instead of books. Moving on, moving on . . .
That’s right, I’m also a doll collector. A doll collector who reads Clive Cussler.
And what I meant by ‘shocking people with Cussler’, I know a lot of people have heard (correctly) that the Dirk Pitt books had objectionable content. But the Remi and Sam Fargo Adventures are quite different and tons of fun.
And yes – error! – I realize that Atilla DIDN’T bury himself – his minions buried him, and they put his treasure with him.
So let’s finish up this clip with a complete brain blank. And then to top it all off – let’s have my iPad crash and cut this clip off in mid sentence.
If you came here look for professionalism and slick videos, you might need to look somewhere else. No wait! Please don’t go somewhere else. Stick around and keep laughing – it gets funnier, I promise!
Bananas? Yes, my mind is very random.
London in the Dark! If you don’t have a copy – well, you can find one HERE! See? I’m so excited I start tripping over my words!
https://youtu.be/MQzCyWybEnw
And of course – half an hour after I finished filming this, I was washing my hands looked in the mirror and suddenly blurted out: “DUST JACKETS!” Then my reflection started laughing at me. Oh I guess that was me – laughing at myself.
And I can’t believe I forgot to mention my very last book!
How could I forget? Easy – too many books and this one was put in a different place and I forgot. Anyway – the other book I got during the library book haul was Beauty by Robin McKinley – a favorite of mine and probably one of the strongest influences on my own writing. I read this book for the first time around 14 years ago – and it’s been a faithful companion ever since.
Unfortunately, the spare copy I picked up at the sale has a huge pink sticker on it that WILL NOT come off. Well it will, but it will take off half of the pretty cover with it.
Over 80 Books In ONE Weekend - VLOG.
Here it is people! All the lovely details about my recent book haul - dozens of books in a single weekend - thanks to a massive library sale.
As you heard in a previous post - I am having massive technical difficulties with my video editing software. It was a plot. Somebody sabotaged me.
Consequently I couldn't edit these clips together in a nice little vlog - I had to 'stack them' one by one. I was also unable to edit out *cough* some mistakes. *slinks away*
Well, this is not resting well with my inner editor and inner perfectionist AT ALL! So they'll be coming along with us during this vlog, to comment, critique and clarify at convenient and inconvenient moments.
My inner perfectionist and inner editor are pretty loud and cranky - sometimes they get sentimental and potter away down rabbit trails - so, brace yourself.
But anyway - ONTO THE BOOKS!
#wsite-video-container-897224409537601239{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-897224409537601239{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-897224409537601239, #video-iframe-897224409537601239{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-897224409537601239{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } I need stronger glasses - I couldn't see that one curl sticking straight out like a horn on a Viking helmet. I SHOULD HAVE USED A BUTTERFLY CLIP.
#wsite-video-container-795429190334774456{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-795429190334774456{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-795429190334774456, #video-iframe-795429190334774456{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-795429190334774456{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Why on earth, did I say that? What possessed me to make a special note of characters falling off cliffs (and my subsequent delight)? Now I sound like a nasty fruitcake. Oh well, you already knew I was a fruitcake.
Obviously, I have nothing against Mary Magdalene - it was this particularly actress that aggravated me - and I had some curiosity in seeing what on earth she was doing on a cliff in the first place. So . . . yeah. Doesn't that clear things up nicely? 'cautious smile'
And then I finish up this riveting clip by having tech problems. 'hits button harder'
#wsite-video-container-634315259878347778{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-634315259878347778{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-634315259878347778, #video-iframe-634315259878347778{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-634315259878347778{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } It is a VHS player, right? Or is a tape player? No, that's for audio tapes - another caveman creation that has now gone the way of other outdated technology - which would be the trash can, or Alli's storage.
The Land Before Time. *smiles*. Oh, how I loved that show.
How do you know when your Dad isn't easily embarrassed (thank goodness)? . . . when his eight year olds dispatch him to the video rental store to get the latest Land Before Time video. Oh right, a VIDEO RENTAL STORE - yeah, that was when a Red Box was the SIZE OF A WHOLE STORE and they had candy and snacks and human beings to help you check out your videos - and they had VHS tapes.
And YES, apparently that's a very lame idea, since no one does it anymore.
#wsite-video-container-291693486996478059{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-291693486996478059{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-291693486996478059, #video-iframe-291693486996478059{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-291693486996478059{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Oh the utter humiliation . . . a toilet flush! I wasn't sure whether to laugh insanely or go beat up whoever was responsible.
If only I had know I would have been unable to edit these clips, I would have re-recorded that section . . . but I didn't, so excuse me while I give a Charlie Brown scream and melt into a puddle of sticky brown molasses.
Embarrassing scenarios like this only happens in the movies! Nope, it happens to Allison EVERY SINGLE TIME. Oh, well. It's not like I haven't embarrassed myself on this blog before . . . right?
And by the way - no offense to teenagers! Some of my best friends in the world are teenagers. I didn't say YOU had weird phases - I said I did. Just wanted to clear that up.
#wsite-video-container-915514218774779312{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-915514218774779312{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-915514218774779312, #video-iframe-915514218774779312{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-915514218774779312{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Who else likes Choose Your Own Adventure Books? I have lived a thousand life times in those books - I have been Indiana Jones - I've witnessed the parting of the Red Sea - I've met extra-terrestrials - I've done it all.
Of course, when I was Indy I was killed by bandits, when I was at the Red Sea I was caught by Egyptians who killed me because I had a smart mouth, and the extra-terrestrials probably turned me into a zombie - I don't remember all the details now.
See how relaxing they are?
#wsite-video-container-895664884719606155{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-895664884719606155{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-895664884719606155, #video-iframe-895664884719606155{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-895664884719606155{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Tinkerbell - YES!!! I love those movies. I don't care who knows it. I'm going to shout it loud and shout it proud. I LOVE TINKERBELL, ROSETTA, VIDIA, FAWN, IRIDESSA, SILVERMIST, PERIWINKLE, BOBBLE and CLANK! I love Pixie Hollow. I love the little animals. I love that they can fly. I love the stories. I love the dialogue. And the characters - did I mention the characters?
Why?
That's why.
And if you don't like it well . . .
I'll give you the LOOK.
Whoops! More technical problems! FLASH. Cover your eyes! You didn't know you should have brought sunglasses to watch this, did you?
#wsite-video-container-931536614448931273{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-931536614448931273{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-931536614448931273, #video-iframe-931536614448931273{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-931536614448931273{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } So if you like the Borrowers - you would love Tinkerbell. Just so you know. Yes, I am desperately hunting for fellow fans of this delightful (and I won't hear a word to the contrary!) series. But i digress, I'm talking about movies instead of books. Moving on, moving on . . .
#wsite-video-container-485569223992288884{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-485569223992288884{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-485569223992288884, #video-iframe-485569223992288884{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-485569223992288884{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } That's right, I'm also a doll collector. A doll collector who reads Clive Cussler.
And what I meant by 'shocking people with Cussler', I know a lot of people have heard (correctly) that the Dirk Pitt books had objectionable content. But the Remi and Sam Fargo Adventures are quite different and tons of fun.
And yes - error! - I realize that Atilla DIDN'T bury himself - his minions buried him, and they put his treasure with him.
So let's finish up this clip with a complete brain blank. And then to top it all off - let's have my iPad crash and cut this clip off in mid sentence.
If you came here look for professionalism and slick videos, you might need to look somewhere else. No wait! Please don't go somewhere else. Stick around and keep laughing - it gets funnier, I promise!
#wsite-video-container-586892571493427619{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-586892571493427619{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-586892571493427619, #video-iframe-586892571493427619{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-586892571493427619{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Bananas? Yes, my mind is very random.
#wsite-video-container-157918107689795724{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-157918107689795724{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-157918107689795724, #video-iframe-157918107689795724{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-157918107689795724{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } London in the Dark! If you don't have a copy - well, you can find one HERE! See? I'm so excited I start tripping over my words!
#wsite-video-container-615826309866866878{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-615826309866866878{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-615826309866866878, #video-iframe-615826309866866878{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-615826309866866878{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } And of course - half an hour after I finished filming this, I was washing my hands looked in the mirror and suddenly blurted out: "DUST JACKETS!" Then my reflection started laughing at me. Oh I guess that was me - laughing at myself.
And I can't believe I forgot to mention my very last book!
How could I forget? Easy - too many books and this one was put in a different place and I forgot. Anyway - the other book I got during the library book haul was Beauty by Robin McKinley - a favorite of mine and probably one of the strongest influences on my own writing. I read this book for the first time around 14 years ago - and it's been a faithful companion ever since.
Unfortunately, the spare copy I picked up at the sale has a huge pink sticker on it that WILL NOT come off. Well it will, but it will take off half of the pretty cover with it. :(
Pretty stack of books -
And the books came tumbling down . . .
~ Happy Reader ~
Well, that was it campers! I had also noted that there was some curiosity from more than one of my friends over whether I did indeed wear glasses (sometimes). Behold my bespectacled look!
'insert slow clap here'.
As always - I LOVE to hear all your comments! So . . .
As you heard in a previous post - I am having massive technical difficulties with my video editing software. It was a plot. Somebody sabotaged me.
Consequently I couldn't edit these clips together in a nice little vlog - I had to 'stack them' one by one. I was also unable to edit out *cough* some mistakes. *slinks away*Well, this is not resting well with my inner editor and inner perfectionist AT ALL! So they'll be coming along with us during this vlog, to comment, critique and clarify at convenient and inconvenient moments.
My inner perfectionist and inner editor are pretty loud and cranky - sometimes they get sentimental and potter away down rabbit trails - so, brace yourself.But anyway - ONTO THE BOOKS!
#wsite-video-container-897224409537601239{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-897224409537601239{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-897224409537601239, #video-iframe-897224409537601239{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-897224409537601239{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } I need stronger glasses - I couldn't see that one curl sticking straight out like a horn on a Viking helmet. I SHOULD HAVE USED A BUTTERFLY CLIP.
#wsite-video-container-795429190334774456{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-795429190334774456{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-795429190334774456, #video-iframe-795429190334774456{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-795429190334774456{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Why on earth, did I say that? What possessed me to make a special note of characters falling off cliffs (and my subsequent delight)? Now I sound like a nasty fruitcake. Oh well, you already knew I was a fruitcake.
Obviously, I have nothing against Mary Magdalene - it was this particularly actress that aggravated me - and I had some curiosity in seeing what on earth she was doing on a cliff in the first place. So . . . yeah. Doesn't that clear things up nicely? 'cautious smile'
And then I finish up this riveting clip by having tech problems. 'hits button harder'
#wsite-video-container-634315259878347778{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-634315259878347778{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-634315259878347778, #video-iframe-634315259878347778{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-634315259878347778{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } It is a VHS player, right? Or is a tape player? No, that's for audio tapes - another caveman creation that has now gone the way of other outdated technology - which would be the trash can, or Alli's storage.
The Land Before Time. *smiles*. Oh, how I loved that show.
How do you know when your Dad isn't easily embarrassed (thank goodness)? . . . when his eight year olds dispatch him to the video rental store to get the latest Land Before Time video. Oh right, a VIDEO RENTAL STORE - yeah, that was when a Red Box was the SIZE OF A WHOLE STORE and they had candy and snacks and human beings to help you check out your videos - and they had VHS tapes.
And YES, apparently that's a very lame idea, since no one does it anymore.
#wsite-video-container-291693486996478059{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-291693486996478059{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-291693486996478059, #video-iframe-291693486996478059{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-291693486996478059{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Oh the utter humiliation . . . a toilet flush! I wasn't sure whether to laugh insanely or go beat up whoever was responsible.
If only I had know I would have been unable to edit these clips, I would have re-recorded that section . . . but I didn't, so excuse me while I give a Charlie Brown scream and melt into a puddle of sticky brown molasses.
Embarrassing scenarios like this only happens in the movies! Nope, it happens to Allison EVERY SINGLE TIME. Oh, well. It's not like I haven't embarrassed myself on this blog before . . . right?
And by the way - no offense to teenagers! Some of my best friends in the world are teenagers. I didn't say YOU had weird phases - I said I did. Just wanted to clear that up.
#wsite-video-container-915514218774779312{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-915514218774779312{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-915514218774779312, #video-iframe-915514218774779312{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-915514218774779312{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Who else likes Choose Your Own Adventure Books? I have lived a thousand life times in those books - I have been Indiana Jones - I've witnessed the parting of the Red Sea - I've met extra-terrestrials - I've done it all.
Of course, when I was Indy I was killed by bandits, when I was at the Red Sea I was caught by Egyptians who killed me because I had a smart mouth, and the extra-terrestrials probably turned me into a zombie - I don't remember all the details now.
See how relaxing they are?
#wsite-video-container-895664884719606155{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-895664884719606155{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-895664884719606155, #video-iframe-895664884719606155{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-895664884719606155{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Tinkerbell - YES!!! I love those movies. I don't care who knows it. I'm going to shout it loud and shout it proud. I LOVE TINKERBELL, ROSETTA, VIDIA, FAWN, IRIDESSA, SILVERMIST, PERIWINKLE, BOBBLE and CLANK! I love Pixie Hollow. I love the little animals. I love that they can fly. I love the stories. I love the dialogue. And the characters - did I mention the characters?
Why?
That's why.And if you don't like it well . . .
I'll give you the LOOK.Whoops! More technical problems! FLASH. Cover your eyes! You didn't know you should have brought sunglasses to watch this, did you?
#wsite-video-container-931536614448931273{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-931536614448931273{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-931536614448931273, #video-iframe-931536614448931273{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-931536614448931273{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } So if you like the Borrowers - you would love Tinkerbell. Just so you know. Yes, I am desperately hunting for fellow fans of this delightful (and I won't hear a word to the contrary!) series. But i digress, I'm talking about movies instead of books. Moving on, moving on . . .
#wsite-video-container-485569223992288884{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-485569223992288884{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-485569223992288884, #video-iframe-485569223992288884{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-485569223992288884{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } That's right, I'm also a doll collector. A doll collector who reads Clive Cussler.
And what I meant by 'shocking people with Cussler', I know a lot of people have heard (correctly) that the Dirk Pitt books had objectionable content. But the Remi and Sam Fargo Adventures are quite different and tons of fun.
And yes - error! - I realize that Atilla DIDN'T bury himself - his minions buried him, and they put his treasure with him.
So let's finish up this clip with a complete brain blank. And then to top it all off - let's have my iPad crash and cut this clip off in mid sentence.
If you came here look for professionalism and slick videos, you might need to look somewhere else. No wait! Please don't go somewhere else. Stick around and keep laughing - it gets funnier, I promise!
#wsite-video-container-586892571493427619{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-586892571493427619{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-586892571493427619, #video-iframe-586892571493427619{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-586892571493427619{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } Bananas? Yes, my mind is very random.
#wsite-video-container-157918107689795724{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-157918107689795724{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-157918107689795724, #video-iframe-157918107689795724{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-157918107689795724{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } London in the Dark! If you don't have a copy - well, you can find one HERE! See? I'm so excited I start tripping over my words!
#wsite-video-container-615826309866866878{ background: url(//www.weebly.comhttp://www.allisonswell... } #video-iframe-615826309866866878{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... } #wsite-video-container-615826309866866878, #video-iframe-615826309866866878{ background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; } @media only screen and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-device-pixel-ratio: 2), only screen and ( min-resolution: 192dpi), only screen and ( min-resolution: 2dppx) { #video-iframe-615826309866866878{ background: url(//cdn2.editmysite.com/images/util/video... background-repeat: no-repeat; background-position:center; background-size: 70px 70px; } } And of course - half an hour after I finished filming this, I was washing my hands looked in the mirror and suddenly blurted out: "DUST JACKETS!" Then my reflection started laughing at me. Oh I guess that was me - laughing at myself.
And I can't believe I forgot to mention my very last book!
How could I forget? Easy - too many books and this one was put in a different place and I forgot. Anyway - the other book I got during the library book haul was Beauty by Robin McKinley - a favorite of mine and probably one of the strongest influences on my own writing. I read this book for the first time around 14 years ago - and it's been a faithful companion ever since.Unfortunately, the spare copy I picked up at the sale has a huge pink sticker on it that WILL NOT come off. Well it will, but it will take off half of the pretty cover with it. :(
Pretty stack of books -And the books came tumbling down . . .
~ Happy Reader ~Well, that was it campers! I had also noted that there was some curiosity from more than one of my friends over whether I did indeed wear glasses (sometimes). Behold my bespectacled look!
'insert slow clap here'.
As always - I LOVE to hear all your comments! So . . .
