Kristi Chestnutt's Blog, page 4
March 8, 2013
I quit cable. Again.
Every few years the hubs and I have this epiphany, this "moment" where we decide to pull the plug on our cable provider.
The first time was pre-child during a hike in the mountains, as we'd reached the peak and decided to take a top-of-the-mountain break. There we were, the crisp cool air wooing us, with the majestic views of birds circling the cliffs, the bright blue skies, the puffy white clouds. I swear to you the oranges we packed tasted like perfection. And it was all too clear at those dizzying heights that we'd been spending too much time indoors. That first time, in that place, the decision to lose tv was easy.
And we didn't miss it...much.
The thing about our viewing habits is this: it's not that we don't enjoy watching shows, and movies, and sports...it's that all too often we waste time watching things we wouldn't normally watch just because IT'S THERE. And I'm the worst. It doesn't matter what it is or what it's about, there's a high likelihood that I will be addicted to it, that one episode won't be enough, that I'll start getting obsessed. I know this. And another thing that irritates me? We have a tendency to always have it on in the background, even when we aren't watching it.
Fast-forward a few years to NOW, with a five year old in the house. This time was MUCH harder.
And our provider was STRONG willed, whereas I was WEAK.
It reminds me alot of this episode of friends:
After calling and NOT quitting a few times (but getting discounted rates), we made the decision that it was really, for real this time, TIME. And I swore I'd be strong. Plus, unlike time number one, we had other sources besides just DVD's, there's Net Flix and other ways of getting MY BASEBALL. (Sadly, an obsession I can't go without.)
But even knowing all that, it was still harder. Because I had mommy guilt. Small son watches alot of his own shows and some of them are actually quite educational. But, all in all, at the end of the day, with summer just around the corner, knowing that instead of just flipping something on, we'd be more deliberate about it, that we'd CHOOSE what to watch and when, well, that's the thought that sealed the deal for me, the one that gave me the courage to do it.
So, at the moment, it's been about a week and a half. And it feels freeing. Do we miss it a little? Yes. But also no. Will I go back in a year or so? Probably. But in the meantime I'm enjoying the break. And cactching up on television shows on my own time. Which is nice.
The first time was pre-child during a hike in the mountains, as we'd reached the peak and decided to take a top-of-the-mountain break. There we were, the crisp cool air wooing us, with the majestic views of birds circling the cliffs, the bright blue skies, the puffy white clouds. I swear to you the oranges we packed tasted like perfection. And it was all too clear at those dizzying heights that we'd been spending too much time indoors. That first time, in that place, the decision to lose tv was easy.
And we didn't miss it...much.
The thing about our viewing habits is this: it's not that we don't enjoy watching shows, and movies, and sports...it's that all too often we waste time watching things we wouldn't normally watch just because IT'S THERE. And I'm the worst. It doesn't matter what it is or what it's about, there's a high likelihood that I will be addicted to it, that one episode won't be enough, that I'll start getting obsessed. I know this. And another thing that irritates me? We have a tendency to always have it on in the background, even when we aren't watching it.
Fast-forward a few years to NOW, with a five year old in the house. This time was MUCH harder.
And our provider was STRONG willed, whereas I was WEAK.
It reminds me alot of this episode of friends:
After calling and NOT quitting a few times (but getting discounted rates), we made the decision that it was really, for real this time, TIME. And I swore I'd be strong. Plus, unlike time number one, we had other sources besides just DVD's, there's Net Flix and other ways of getting MY BASEBALL. (Sadly, an obsession I can't go without.)
But even knowing all that, it was still harder. Because I had mommy guilt. Small son watches alot of his own shows and some of them are actually quite educational. But, all in all, at the end of the day, with summer just around the corner, knowing that instead of just flipping something on, we'd be more deliberate about it, that we'd CHOOSE what to watch and when, well, that's the thought that sealed the deal for me, the one that gave me the courage to do it.
So, at the moment, it's been about a week and a half. And it feels freeing. Do we miss it a little? Yes. But also no. Will I go back in a year or so? Probably. But in the meantime I'm enjoying the break. And cactching up on television shows on my own time. Which is nice.
March 6, 2013
Wednesday Book Recommendation!
Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Goodreads Description:
Juliette hasn’t touched anyone in exactly 264 days.
The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette’s touch is fatal. As long as she doesn’t hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don’t fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.
The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war– and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she’s exactly what they need right now.
Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.
My thoughts:
Absolutely adored this book!
It was beautifully written, without a word wasted or out of place, the phrasing often lyrical in a way that added to the story without distraction.
And the story? Unputdownable. The characters? Touching.
Can not wait to read the next book in this series. Brilliant debut!
View all my reviews
January 28, 2013
Monday Music Muse (CP Edition #2)
It's time to introduce you all to my newest addiction, courtesy my other critique partner, Kristin.
That's right. The band, Switchfoot. I was amazed at how many songs (like the one above) I already knew but had no idea they sang. Turns out I've been a fan all along. And their entire album, The Beautiful Letdown, is phenomenal. My two most favorite things about this band thus far? The amazing lyrics and the genuine emotion of the lead singer's voice on most of the tracks. You can FEEL what he's trying to tell you. And I love that. If, like me, you're new to the band and want to check out some of their stuff, or you just want to learn more, read Kristin's very thorough Switchfoot overview HERE. HAPPY MONDAY ALL!
That's right. The band, Switchfoot. I was amazed at how many songs (like the one above) I already knew but had no idea they sang. Turns out I've been a fan all along. And their entire album, The Beautiful Letdown, is phenomenal. My two most favorite things about this band thus far? The amazing lyrics and the genuine emotion of the lead singer's voice on most of the tracks. You can FEEL what he's trying to tell you. And I love that. If, like me, you're new to the band and want to check out some of their stuff, or you just want to learn more, read Kristin's very thorough Switchfoot overview HERE. HAPPY MONDAY ALL!
January 23, 2013
Write.Revise.Share.Edit.Repeat.
Sound familiar?!?
I've been thinking alot lately about how I'm most definitely, 100%, undeniably, a Calendar Year Writer.
All my significant drafting and beginning ideas all begin in January, which is kind of cool and appropriate resolution-wise, and I'm betting I'm not the only one. Something about the new year just begs me to start fresh, to dive into that story that's been nagging me since early December, the one I was too busy with holidays and catching up to work on. Usually I already have an idea of where I want it to go and several random, spastic thoughts scribbled into the notebook by my bedside.
So, naturally, the rest of my year (post-January-March) is spent revising, sharing, editing, and polishing whatever book I started and wrote the majority (if not all of) those first three months of the year. Which means the end process usually takes MUCH LONGER than the actual drafting part. Yeah. That sounds about right.
Changes and polishing take time.
Which makes me wonder, why, WHY ON EARTH WHY, did I decide to try and write two new books this year? Honestly? No idea. (Way to go crazy writer resolution maker Kristi!)
Not sure there's actual room in my head or writing schedule for two books, but you know what? We'll see what happens.
What about you? Are you a calendar year writer? Or a NANO year writer who starts in November? Does the new year inspire you and remind you why you fell in love with writing in the first place? Did YOU make any crazy and probably unreachable writing goals this year?
Or is it just me?
I've been thinking alot lately about how I'm most definitely, 100%, undeniably, a Calendar Year Writer.
All my significant drafting and beginning ideas all begin in January, which is kind of cool and appropriate resolution-wise, and I'm betting I'm not the only one. Something about the new year just begs me to start fresh, to dive into that story that's been nagging me since early December, the one I was too busy with holidays and catching up to work on. Usually I already have an idea of where I want it to go and several random, spastic thoughts scribbled into the notebook by my bedside.
So, naturally, the rest of my year (post-January-March) is spent revising, sharing, editing, and polishing whatever book I started and wrote the majority (if not all of) those first three months of the year. Which means the end process usually takes MUCH LONGER than the actual drafting part. Yeah. That sounds about right.
Changes and polishing take time.
Which makes me wonder, why, WHY ON EARTH WHY, did I decide to try and write two new books this year? Honestly? No idea. (Way to go crazy writer resolution maker Kristi!)
Not sure there's actual room in my head or writing schedule for two books, but you know what? We'll see what happens.
What about you? Are you a calendar year writer? Or a NANO year writer who starts in November? Does the new year inspire you and remind you why you fell in love with writing in the first place? Did YOU make any crazy and probably unreachable writing goals this year?
Or is it just me?
January 14, 2013
Monday Music Muse (CP Edition)
A few months ago, one of my Critique Partners (KM) told me I should check out Imagine Dragons and their Radioactive Album, so of course, I did.
And I fell in love.
Seriously adore the entire album, but the title song is still one of my favorites.
What do you think?
(Note: I'm slightly disturbed by the video and all those poor, hurt stuffed animals, but the song is excellent.)
And I fell in love.
Seriously adore the entire album, but the title song is still one of my favorites.
What do you think?
(Note: I'm slightly disturbed by the video and all those poor, hurt stuffed animals, but the song is excellent.)
January 11, 2013
Friday Fun: Fruit Dip!
It's time to introduce you all to my new 2013 obsession.
Fruit Dip.
That's right.
Fruit Dip. (Shockingly NOT book related. Who knew?)
Seriously.
There are three spectacular things about this fruit dip that you should know.
1 - It only has FOUR ingredients.
2 - It's super easy to make. (See above)
3 - It is DIVINE. (and habit forming)
I've tried it with everything but have decided Green Granny Smith Apples are the best. The dip tastes very caramely and I make it in a glass pyrex, throw it in the refrigerator, and snack on it all week.
Without further ado, here you go, my mother-in-law's recipe:
Fruit Dip Ingredients:
8 oz Light Cream Cheese
1/2 cup brown sugar (I prefer dark brown sugar but you can use either)
1/4 cup white sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
*Just mix it up, refreigerate, and voila! Your newest addiction.
You're welcome. :)
Fruit Dip.
That's right.
Fruit Dip. (Shockingly NOT book related. Who knew?)
Seriously.
There are three spectacular things about this fruit dip that you should know.
1 - It only has FOUR ingredients.
2 - It's super easy to make. (See above)
3 - It is DIVINE. (and habit forming)
I've tried it with everything but have decided Green Granny Smith Apples are the best. The dip tastes very caramely and I make it in a glass pyrex, throw it in the refrigerator, and snack on it all week.
Without further ado, here you go, my mother-in-law's recipe:
Fruit Dip Ingredients:
8 oz Light Cream Cheese
1/2 cup brown sugar (I prefer dark brown sugar but you can use either)
1/4 cup white sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
*Just mix it up, refreigerate, and voila! Your newest addiction.
You're welcome. :)
January 9, 2013
Wednesday Book Recommendation!
My thoughts:The Evolution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Goodreads Description:
Mara Dyer once believed she could run from her past.
She can’t.
She used to think her problems were all in her head.
They aren’t.
She couldn’t imagine that after everything she’s been through, the boy she loves would still be keeping secrets.
She’s wrong.
In this gripping sequel to The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, the truth evolves and choices prove deadly. What will become of Mara Dyer next?
How to even begin?!?
This book totally consumed me. I read it in three days and instantly missed the characters the moment I finished the last page.
Not only is it extremely well written, but the pace and plot are lightning-fast, making it unputdownable, and there are so many twists and turns, you never know what's around the corner. Also, the characters? Deliciously dark and flawed and lovable.
I really liked the first book in this series and thought it was a stellar debut, but this one?!? In case it isn't clear, I ADORE. (Dare I say even more than the first one?) YES, yes, I do.
Well done, Hodkin, well done.
How many days until we know the end? *taps foot impatiently*
Author spotlight:
Web: http://www.michellehodkin.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/michellehodkin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaraDyer
Curious about the first book in this series? Read my review HERE.
Happy reading!
December 28, 2012
Giveaway Winners!!!
Hope this post finds each of you safe and sound, with another round of holidays behind us, and one more on the horizon. (2013 here we come!)
Wanted to take a minute to say a huge thanks to all those who shared in our Spread the Good Cheer Giveaway! This whole community is so supportive, and throughout the years, you've each made me smile. So, thank you to you all, I send to you virtual squishy hugs of the non-creepy variety!
And without further rambling from moi, here are our Spread the Good Cheer Giveaway winners!!!
Jessica Capelle~Bree Ogden Query Critique and Peek at the first 5 pages
Shila. A~$25 Amazon Giftcard
Julie Dao~Jennifer Echols Prize Pack (Forget You, Going Too Far, Love Story, and ARC of Such a Rush)
Shelly Hammond~Signed copy of Blessed by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Sarah Ahiers~ARC of Struck by Jennifer Bosworth
CONGRATULATIONS Ladies!!!
Kristin and I will be emailing each of the winners this week and we promise to get your goodies to you pronto!
Happy 2012!
Wanted to take a minute to say a huge thanks to all those who shared in our Spread the Good Cheer Giveaway! This whole community is so supportive, and throughout the years, you've each made me smile. So, thank you to you all, I send to you virtual squishy hugs of the non-creepy variety!
And without further rambling from moi, here are our Spread the Good Cheer Giveaway winners!!!
Jessica Capelle~Bree Ogden Query Critique and Peek at the first 5 pages
Shila. A~$25 Amazon Giftcard
Julie Dao~Jennifer Echols Prize Pack (Forget You, Going Too Far, Love Story, and ARC of Such a Rush)
Shelly Hammond~Signed copy of Blessed by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Sarah Ahiers~ARC of Struck by Jennifer Bosworth
CONGRATULATIONS Ladies!!!
Kristin and I will be emailing each of the winners this week and we promise to get your goodies to you pronto!
Happy 2012!
December 17, 2012
Monday Music Muse (Holiday Edition)
I'll admit it. My name's Kristi and I'm a holiday music junkie.
I love finding new versions of old favorites sung by different artists. But one of my most favorite songs came from a celebrity Holiday Mix over five years ago. It's a cover of God Rest ye Merry Gentleman by Barenaked Ladies (one of my favorite groups) and Sarah MacLaughlin (whose name I always misspell). While I can't remember the name of the album, I DO remember a horrible cat song on it that will make you cry many tears. I don't revisit that one.
And the clip below is an even different version, which doesn't have Sarah in it and isn't my ALL TIME FAVORITE, but it's very, VERY close. The Barenaked Ladies harmony is just too cool, and this time of year, I could listen to it over and over and over and over....well, you get the picture.
Enjoy.
And also this: a mashup of some of my favorite holiday movies.
Reminder: If you haven't entered our Spread the Cheery Giveaway yet and would like to, CLICK HERE, only a few days left!
Wishing you all a very Happy Holiday Season!
I love finding new versions of old favorites sung by different artists. But one of my most favorite songs came from a celebrity Holiday Mix over five years ago. It's a cover of God Rest ye Merry Gentleman by Barenaked Ladies (one of my favorite groups) and Sarah MacLaughlin (whose name I always misspell). While I can't remember the name of the album, I DO remember a horrible cat song on it that will make you cry many tears. I don't revisit that one.
And the clip below is an even different version, which doesn't have Sarah in it and isn't my ALL TIME FAVORITE, but it's very, VERY close. The Barenaked Ladies harmony is just too cool, and this time of year, I could listen to it over and over and over and over....well, you get the picture.
Enjoy.
And also this: a mashup of some of my favorite holiday movies.
Reminder: If you haven't entered our Spread the Cheery Giveaway yet and would like to, CLICK HERE, only a few days left!
Wishing you all a very Happy Holiday Season!
December 12, 2012
Spread the Good Cheer Giveaway!
As promised, it's time for the SPREAD THE GOOD CHEER GIVEAWAY! Thanks SO MUCH to my critique buddy, Kristin, for pulling this all together for me. For Real. She gets ALL THE (((HUGS)))! Not to worry though, because YOU GUYS, you get all THE PRIZES. And we have some SWEET stuff up for grabs! There will be FIVE winners!!The TOP TOP TOP TIPPITY TOP prize is:
query and first five pages critique from Kristi's agent, Bree Ogden of D4EO Literary!!
YOU KNOW YOU WANT THAT!! Seriously. Bree's teaching a LitReactor query class in January.She knows her stuffs and has graciously offered up her time to help another aspiring writer.Not an opportunity you want to miss. Also up for grabs:$25 Amazon Gift CardSIGNED copy of Blessed by Cynthia Leitich SmithARC of Struck by Jennifer BosworthJennifer Echols pack: Forget You, Going Too Far, Love Story, and an ARC of Such a Rush *US only, sorry*Contest runs December 12-24th at midnight when Santa draws YOUR name!*winners will be notified sometime the next week and will be given time to get back to us, we understand it's a busy season! Fill out THIS FORM to enter!
(Only your name and email address are mandatory, so we can get in touch with you if you win. All other items are purely EXTRA CREDIT.) Thanks SO MUCH for celebrating with us.
Good luck to all and to all GOOD CHEER!
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