Massimo Marino's Blog: The Ramblings and the Rumblings, page 7

Merry Christmas

“To”

To those who love to sleep in, but get up early always in a good mood.

To those who still greet with a kiss.

To those who work hard, but still end the day with a smile.

To those who drive in a hurry, but never honk at traffic lights.

To those who arrive late, but never seek excuses.

To those who always turn off the television to have a chat.

To those who are happy the double when they can share their joy.

To those who never say no when they can help a friend.

To those who have the curiosity of a child, but the thoughts of a man.

To those who see the stars when all around is dark.

And to those who don’t wait for Christmas to be a better person.

Merry Christmas

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Where to Travel For The Best Stargazing In The World

This post was posted by The Chipmunk on Hipmunk’s  Tailwind blog   on 19th of December 2015

In most urban areas, only around 500 stars are visible on a given night, but in the prized locations highlighted below, up to 15,000 are easily seen. That’s pretty incredible. It you’re planning a trip and want some nighttime eye candy, here are six of the best places in the world to go outside and look up.

Mauna Kea, Hawaii

The Mauna Kea volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island has perhaps the most ideal stargazing conditions in the world. At an elevation above 13,000 feet, it is the highest point in Hawaii. Its high elevation and location in the middle of the Pacific create excellent conditions, but the surrounding cloud layer makes it even more perfect for studying the sky. A tropical inversion cloud layer 2,000 feet thick sits below the summit, preventing pollutants and moist air from the ocean from rising up. The view itself is so spectacular that one of the world’s most advanced astronomical observatories is located at the top. The visitor’s center at 9,000 feet offers lectures, question and answer sessions, and telescope viewing.

Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania might seem like an odd place for first-class stargazing, but Cherry Springs State Park is one of the best viewing points in the world. The 82 acre park is set within the 262,000 acre Susquehannock State Forest, protecting it from light pollution. A tremendous number of stars are visible at this Gold-Certified International Dark Sky Park. In fact, the sky is so dark that the Northern Lights were seen here four times in 2014, a very unusual event this far below the Arctic Circle. The park offers Night Sky Tours on Friday and Saturday nights that use lasers to identify and explain constellations and planets. Visitors can also use telescopes on site.

Atacama Desert, Chile

The Atacama Desert in Chile is already a stunning natural wonder with its red dunes, huge rock formations, and even a desert flowering in wet years. It’s also the driest non-polar desert in the world due to its high elevation, which makes it an exceptionally perfect place for stargazing. The newly constructed ALMA Observatorytakes advantage of these conditions and the lack of light pollution in the desert. At times, the Milky Way can shine so brightly here that it casts a shadow on the desert floor.

Natural Bridges National Monument, Utah

In 2007, Natural Bridges National Monument in Utah became the first ever International Dark Sky Park, a designation since reserved for the best stargazing locations in the world. The beauty of the stars visible in the desert is supplemented by the striking natural setting. Owachomo bridge, perhaps the oldest bridge in the park, was created when a river changed course and carved a hole into solid rock.

Denali National Park, Alaska

The Northern Lights are caused by a coronal mass ejection, which is a gust of solar wind and magnetic fields that interact with the earth’s atmosphere. The result are stunning dancing waves of green, red, blue, and violet that are occasionally visible in northern climates. Denali National Park in Alaska is one of the best places for viewing the phenomenon. The park encompasses four million acres of federally protected land, and the cold and clear Alaskan nights made conditions ideal. The magnificent park also offers bears, wolves, caribou, and moose as well as some of the most stunning mountain views in the world.

Tromsø, Norway

Brave stargazers might seek to venture inside the Arctic Circle itself for viewing the northern lights. There’s no better place to experience the enchanted north than Tromsø. Not only does it offer fantastic views of the aurora borealis (the sun is invisible from November to January), it’s a lovely city in its own right. In the 19th century it was called the Paris of the North, and visitors can enjoy reindeer spotting, sledding with huskies, and visiting the famous Arctic Cathedral in this Norse and Sami medieval city.

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Space Center Smackdown: Cape Canaveral vs Houston

This post was posted The Hipmunk on  Tailwind blog  on November the 11th.

There’s nothing under the sun that captures the imagination quite like outer space. With the discovery of water on Mars, the meteoric rise of Matt Damon’s new film, “The Martian”, and the impending release of the new Stars Wars flick, the universe has been, well, everywhere lately.

Back here on the earth, the closest most of us mere mortals will come to outer space is a visit to one of America’s NASA-run Space Centers: the Johnson Space Center, located in Houston, TX, and the Kennedy Space Center, in Cape Canaveral, FL. We wondered, which Space Center location’s vacation price is down-to-earth and which one is other-worldly expensive?

To find out, we analyzed our 2015 data for average flight prices to each center’s nearest airport from the 30 most popular airports in the U.S. and daily car rental prices, in addition to the average prices for hotel stays in Houston and Cape Canaveral. We also looked at the average ticket prices and, just for fun, how much it would cost to eat lunch with an astronaut, a program offered at both locations.

Here’s what we found it would cost, on average, a family of four for a 3-day, 2-night trip:

In other words, a family of four can save an average of $600 by choosing Space Center Houston over Cape Canaveral, most of which is saved through airfare and Space Center admission prices. Here’s how that breaks down, per person:

Cape Canaveral
Houston


Avg. RT Airfare
$387 Melbourne Intl Airport (MLB)
$294 George Bush Intercontinental (IAH)


Avg. Nightly Hotel
$144
$116


Daily Admission
$50 Adult/ $40 Child
$21 Adult/ $16 Child


Lunch with Astronaut
$30 Adult/ $16 Child
$50 Adult/ $30 Child


Car Rental
From $26/ day
From $27/ day

 

While this may appear like pretty steep price tag for a short vacation, both centers offer numerous discount opportunities and are generally all-inclusive. For example, Kennedy Space Center admission includes all exhibits and shows, IMAX space films, the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour and free next-day admission to the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Famewhen a general admission ticket is purchased. Multi-day packages that can reduce the overall price are also available.

Meanwhile, Space Center Houston offers a CityPASS if you plan to visit other Houston attractions, which allows visitors to save 50 percent on admission to Space Center Houston and four more top Houston attractions: 1) Downtown Aquarium, 2) Houston Museum of Natural Science, 3) Houston Zoo or Museum of Fine Arts, and 4) Houston Children’s Museum or Kemah Boardwalk All-Day Ride Pass. You’ll skip most ticket lines, too.

So while Space Center Houston is inarguably the less expensive of America’s two NASA centers, both locations offer multiple opportunities to let your imagination (and inner-astronaut) be free from gravitational pulls for a few days.

Blast off about your Space Center story in the comments below!

Methodology : Hipmunk analyzed 2015 data for average airfare prices to MLB and IAH from the 30 most popular U.S. airports, as well as average nightly hotel prices in both Houston and Cape Canaveral. Car rental prices were the lowest recent price posted on Hipmunk.com departing and returning to MLB and IAH, respectively. All other data was found on each Space Center’s website. As always, airfare, hotel, and car rental prices frequently change and Hipmunk does not guarantee that the prices listed in this story reflect what is currently available.

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The Churning by Justin Edison

BLOG TOUR

THE CHURNING

By Justin Edison

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON NOW!

Synopsis

In Justin Edison’s second novel, Persian-American soccer star Arman Hessabi wakes in chains in a house of enemies. Driven in part by an abusive older brother, the hero feels his life is complete with the glory, women and riches afforded by a Premier League striker’s lifestyle. But he meets his match in Fat Man, Captain, Huck and Kay—men who hold him in thrall somewhere in Europe. Through trials, Hessabi comes to question his own ego and position in life. But is it too late for a soccer star with no apparent power over his own fate?

Author Bio

Justin A. Edison has been writing fiction and stories for twenty-odd years. A graduate of the Evansville and Hamline writing programs, he counts among his adventures a rocking semester at Harlaxton (in the British Midlands) and a tour of the Czech Republic. His pursuits include hiking, Web site design, trying to fix the world (in too many ways) and playing soccer (rather poorly). He lives in the Seattle area with his wife, two energetic kids and a vocal cat.

The Churning is his second novel.

Author Links

To contact the author: edisonchurning@gmail.com

www.jedisonwriting.wordpress.com

https://www.facebook.com/ChurningBook...

@jedisonbooks

BLOGGERS: REVIEW COPIES ARE AVAILABLE. PLEASE CONTACT THE AUTHOR.

The INTERVIEW

This is premiere. When I host fellow writers on my pages, and we agree on an interview, I use a set of questions that I collected in order to reveal the writer and the person within the writer. It is a set of 50 questions and I ask writers to select at least ten so I could have material to write an interview out of their answers.

Well, Justin is the only one—as of today—who answered ALL OF THEM! I thought, wow, what to do now. Pick a few, forget about most of them? After some mulling I decided that no, this time I would not do any editing, any arranging the questions and their orders to create an original interview. I’m showing you the original of all originals, all 50 shades of questions in all their glory. Enjoy!

1) Tell us about your most recent release. “The Churning” is the story of an egomaniacal Persian-American football (soccer) star who gets kidnapped in Europe and is forced to examine his life. He endures a dark, scary trial with four disparate villains who don’t give a rip about fame or money, it would seem. Along the way, we learn about hero Arman Hessabi’s abusive older brother, his stressors, his lifestyle, and his missed opportunities (in love). We see what happens when you strip someone of the power they’re accustomed to.

2) What else do you have coming out? I have a thriller called “Tempest Road” in, I guess, draft status. I’m ready to let an editor take a crack at it. I’m finishing the draft for a war novel with the title of “Endgame.” They’re fun to work on.

3) Is there anything you want to make sure potential readers know?            I guess, whatever success comes from “The Churning” and so on—and I’m very lucky to be here—this has been a bit of a road. I just turned 40. My first novel, “Watching the World Fall,” endured nine years of mistakes and goofs before I completed a tale I was happy with.

4) What’s the most blatant lie you’ve ever told? Small fibs here and there. I’m a terrible liar. My wife says the last job I’d ever have is being some kind of spy.

5) What is the most demeaning thing said about you as a writer? In high school, a witchy classmate told me I wasn’t ‘that good’ of a writer. Nothing too damning. I think it actually spurred me to be better and try harder.

6) How do you react to a bad review of one of your books? This is new ground for me, so we’ll see. I took a class about taking criticism from Judith Katz, my polar opposite and a woman who’d endured plenty of it. We’ll see how well I handle it.

7) When are you going to write your autobiography? In 70 years, when I’ve really accomplished something.

8) What about the titles of your novels? I just go for something catchy and relevant. My first was called “Scream For Blood” for a long time—almost until I self-published it. It sounded too much like a war novel, whereas the title I picked touches on the spectator-vs-participant theme of the book. Maybe I’m trying for poetic or something.

9) Are there any occupational hazards to being a novelist? Sure. You have to accept your vices—hopefully they’re healthy (mine are coffee and soccer). And I think you have to embrace a certain amount of chaos in your schedule to do it. For most of the writers I know, this isn’t like a cubicle job. Ideas and inspiration can come any time, from the most mundane source. I take tons of notes.

10) What’s your favorite fruit? Honeycrisp apples, in a landslide.

11) How many people have you done away with over the course of your career? If you mean characters I’ve killed off, make it five through this book.

12) Ever dispatched someone and then regretted it? No, but I wouldn’t mind writing new stories/vignettes with some of these characters. I always try to render fun, realistic people.

13) Have you ever been in trouble with the police? No.

14) So when were you last involved in a real-life punch-up? Just a scuffle at my fraternity house, a long time ago.

15) If you were going to commit the perfect murder, how would you go about it? Good question. There are ways, of course. But first, for me, is I’d have to loathe someone (or something) so purely that killing them would be necessary. Only one person comes to mind right now, and I won’t mention his name.

16) What do you want to be when you grow up? An inventor, but that’s not really grown up. I work in Web sites, so maybe running a site firm.

17) What is your favorite bedtime drink? Just water. I’m rather dull.

18) Do you ever wish that you had an entirely uncreative job, like data entry or working in a factory? I can see myself being a technology analyst—they get paid pretty well. But ‘wish’ would be a strong word, there.

19) Do you believe in a deity? No. The idea is nice, but no.

20) Do you ever write naked? Nope.

21) Who would play you in a film of your life? Don Cheadle. Just kidding. Love his work, though.

22) What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer? Persistence is key. It’s fine to wander from one thing to another, as long as you can (sometime) get back to your driving story or character. And I believe fresh air is vital, great for brainstorming. It’s not an attribute, but it’s on the recipe list.

23) Have you ever read or seen yourself as a character in a book or a movie? Only as a tired dad here and there.

24) What is the single most powerful challenge when it comes to writing a novel? Probably battling that wretched voice that says, ‘This is a colossal waste of time.’ Because writing a novel does take a lot of time, no doubt about it. “The Churning” has taken around 2,500 hours.

25) What do you consider your biggest failure? On the writing side, there have been 3,000 small ones. Non-writing side, it would be not settling on a (non-writing) career path earlier—even though it’s damned tough with young kids. Have to sleep sometime.

26) Do you research your novels? Sure. Soccer and (American) football, I know them pretty well. And I know a lot of the characters who fit into those worlds. For the rest, I read a lot and try to talk to the right people. Pulling “Endgame” together will be a challenge, though.

27) How much impact does your childhood have on your writing? There’s a lot of mixed memories, like anyone’s. I think I use those and my kids’ current activities and thoughts as a kind of reference book. Right now, I’m writing strictly about grownups, so it works.

28) What was the greatest thing you learned at school? Believe in your own story (if not your abilities) and keep going. You have to be super-persistent in this game.

29) Do you laugh at your own jokes? I try not to. But the other night I told a funny about my dad and it got the whole room rolling. Now if I could’ve just worked some of those into “The Churning.”

30) Do you admire your own work? Um, to the point that I always try to tell an engaging, interesting story. What I want to hear most from people is that they couldn’t put the book down.

31) What are books for? Escapism and learning. The Matsen and McGinty books on Piper Alpha took me right into that hellish inferno—and taught me everything I’d ever want to know about oil rig operations.

32) Are you fun to go on vacation with? I try to be. I get up early to work, and then let my family dictate the rest of the day.

33) How do you feel about being interviewed? Like this, it’s fine. In person, I’d probably be a nervous wreck. I’m not Mr. Smooth up at the podium.

34) Why do you think what you do matters? Well, in telling stories, we present a different world full of perspectives and conflicts. I like to think that’s adding a certain context to the history we’re living now—even through fiction. You could say Herbert’s “Dune” was just sci-fi, a story about people in another time on another planet. But how many people read that book and recognized much of the political backstabbing, needless war and human folly going on (here on Earth) when it was written—or now? Stories are very relevant.

35) Have you ever found true love? Sure—my wife, Luanne.

36) How many times a day do you think about death? Rarely, not as often as maybe I should. There’s too much life to live for.

37) Are you jealous of other writers? No, I’m happy for them. The staggering income of a select few—sure, that would be nice. But they’ve earned it. My time might come. It’s a little of that fantasy question: ‘If someone dropped $10 million in your lap, what would you do?’ Well, I wouldn’t buy a Ferrari.

38) What makes you cry? Things that remind me of loss. Music tends to do it more than anything.

39) What makes you laugh? British comedy.

40) What are you ashamed of? Not being a better person. Here and there, there were times I could’ve helped someone and didn’t. And those all stick with me.

41) What’s the loveliest thing you have ever seen? Probably the sun setting over mountains in England’s Lake District. I was nineteen and spending a semester at Harlaxton—a key point in my life.

42) Describe your writing process. When and where do you write? I get to it early at a small desk in our family room. I also do a fair amount in my car (waiting on kids’ piano lessons, etc.) and, yes, at nearby coffee shops. Those places offer energy and new people and sights. I just love that. I like being around other people.

43) Do you have any favorite books or authors? Too many. “Catch-22” and “Cuckoo’s Nest” and “In Cold Blood” and “Middle Passage.” I’ve read a lot of Andre Dubus (II) and Mark Bowden. I just finished Reiss’ “The Black Count” which made me want to cry. So much great material out there.

44) What are you planning on writing in the near future? Next is finishing my war novel. It is, to me, a completely credible tale set in unusual circumstances, so it has flowed really well. I just hope I can render the characters artfully.

45) What’s your drive for writing? I love being creative (Who doesn’t!?) and I love the idea of telling a story someone hasn’t told, yet. Hopefully, I’m accomplishing that. I guess it’s up to the readers.

46) What was the biggest challenge you faced writing this book and how did you overcome it? My biggest challenge was letting go of some material I really liked. The manuscript was originally close to 80k words. When my editor started trimming fat—even the repetitive stuff—I realized it was fat I couldn’t really use in another book. C’est la vie.

47) What advice would you give to aspiring writers? Believe in what you’re doing and (soccer-wise) go after it like a sweet through-ball. It’s just you and the keeper. If he blocks your shot, go after the ball again.

48) What is your favorite genre to read? Right now, I’d say engaging nonfiction. There’s just something about the anatomy of disaster, like “Into Thin Air” and “The Perfect Storm.”

49) How many books have you written, and which one is your absolute favorite? Working on my fifth, if you include the one I wrote for my master’s thesis. Someday I’ll get back to it. No favorites, so far, but I’m super-happy with the way “The Churning” has turned out.

50) Do you read reviews of your books? How do they affect you, whether positive or negative? This will be a first for me, so I hope they’re positive. The negative stuff is going to come. I’ll try to take it in stride.

51) Would you sign a big fat book contract, movie rights and all? Oh, I’d love to, though I haven’t earned it, yet. Maybe another ten years of this will do it.

 

Bio: Justin Edison is a married father of two kids. He plays soccer (poorly) and coaches on occasion and works in Web sites. He and his family live in Greater Seattle.

Links: www.jedisonwriting.wordpress.com

http://emeraldminds.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChurningBook/?ref=hl

Twitter: @jedisonbooks

 

Many thanks, M.M.!

Thanks to you, Justin

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Michael`s Mystery by Linzé Brandon

It It was time for the Lords of the High Council to step in when the Grandmaster of Kryane is accused of murdering his own people. They had little choice but to prevent the collapse of the whole magicians order, so they sent Michael to investigate the allegations.

The people of the desert planet were an enigma, but none more than Andesine, the healer assigned to assist Michael. Why did she report the Grandmaster? Was she involved, or was there something more sinister going on?

The more people they interrogated the more they suspected that nothing was as it seemed. Not the murders, nor the Grandmasters’ motive as everyone thought.

Unable to resist the growing attraction between them, Michael and Andesine learn that they had to trust each other with their own secrets, and risking any future they might have.

Time and again the High Lords had to step in to prevent chaos on Kryane, but time was running out for Michael and Andesine. They had to get a new Grandmaster in place before the Kryane Order collapsed completely. And they had to find the who the true culprit was.

Fortunate to escape an attack from this monster once, they were risking the lives of many others in the process. Before the High Lords could formulate a plan, Michael and Andesine were captured, leaving the High Lords helpless to prevent it.

Kidnapped and imprisoned, Andesine was confronted with the realisation that if they were to survive their ordeal, it was up to her and her long suppressed powers. But as a healer she saved lives, would she be able to destroy the monster before he forces her to unleash her power to destroy the future of mankind?

About the Author:

Teaching herself to read before she went to school, it was the start of her life long love affair with books. Trained as an engineer, Linzé has worked as an export consultant and is presently a project manager. Although she still loves to read, she also enjoys counted stitch embroidery, archery, tai chi, fly fishing, painting, her husband’s medal winning photographs and watching Manchester United play.

She counts both novels and short stories to her publishing credit. Her fourth novel, Waiting for Adrian, is planned for publication early in 2016. Her story, The Vernal Equinox, was a finalist in a sci-fi flash-fiction competition in 2015.

Linzé Brandon lives in Pretoria, South Africa, with her engineer husband and German Shepherds who are convinced that the world revolves only around them.

Hello, Linzé, how do you feel about being interviewed?

I love being interviewed. The interviewers sometimes come up with the most interesting and thought provoking questions, such as this one. It took me a while to think about it, before answering. Good thing though that you only requested answers to ten questions, otherwise I might still be thinking in a month’s time!

You agreed to tell us about yourself and your most recent release. What’s Michael`s Mystery about?

Michael’s Mystery was published in October 2015. It is my third full length novel in the Nations of Peace series. In Keeper of the Dragon Sword (although it is not necessary to read it before reading Michael’s Mystery) there are a number of mysterious murders committed with the aim to draw Elizabeth out of hiding.

In the third book, Michael is sent to Kryane to investigate the allegations that the Grandmaster of Kryane was responsible for these murders to avenge an age old vendetta against the Xa’anian Grandmaster.

Andesine reported the Kryane Grandmaster to the High Lords and was asked to help Michael investigate. From the start Michael realised that Andesine was different than any other healer and the more they worked together the more convinced he became that she might the one for him. But she was keeping secrets that he needed to find out before this could go any further.

But the more they investigate, the more they realise that there was a bigger power at work and he was after more than a greedy Grandmaster. As her secrets come to light it was becoming clear that Andesine held the key to this mystery after all.

Buy Links: Smashwords Barnes & Noble iTunes

And it has great reviews, too. What else do you have coming out?

My next book will be a non-fiction book, entitled Indie Author: The Good, the Bad and the Hard Work.

It deals with all aspects of the writing life, except the craft itself. A list of 102 topics are covered. The book will serve as a manual for a 3-day course to teach authors and aspiring authors all the skills they need to be an authorpreneur. The accompanying workbook will be available for free to subscribers to my blog’s mailing list. The book and the workbook will be released in February 2016.

I will soon be starting the final edit on the fourth book in the Nations of Peace series, Waiting for Adrian. It is the first of the Future Master books and is planned for release in March 2016.

On her sixteenth birthday Erin figures out why she had been having horrible nightmares about a war. When Adrian is chosen as her Protector, it changes everything for the people of the Nations of Peace.

The last book in my Third Gender series, Breathe, is planned for release in June 2016.

Past the age of transformation, Jar still came to Suicide Valley to provide support to third genders in their last moments. Jar had stood on that edge too. But Surina was female and still so young. They talk for a few hours when Jar knew that Surina could be the one. Now to convince her not kill herself and give them a chance, however remote it was.

That’s quite a programme. Fiction, non fiction… Is there anything you want to make sure potential readers know? 

It is okay for me to have a small fan base since my books are different and aimed at adult audience only. I enjoy my characters and often wonder if the thirty five books planned in the Nations of Peace series would be enough before I will tire of their stories.

What about the titles of your novels?

Coming up with titles have been super easy until the book now titled Waiting for Adrian. I had finished the third draft already and still wasn’t happy with the title of the story. Until one day it just clicked. I have written more stories since and haven’t had this problem again. Really weird.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

For me there are several things: the ability to switch off from a very stressful job (something I learned very early in my working life), having other creative outlets and the support of my husband. He is an engineer who takes his photography just as seriously as I take my writing. He understands having a passion and my need to spend many hours on my own in front of my computer.

 

What keeps you going?

Coffee. When I was a student I drank coffee as if the apocalypse was about come. Up to twenty cups per day. I scaled down to a more healthy regime once I started working, also didn’t have the time to make so many cups, until four months ago. I was diagnosed with a stomach ulcer and the one thing I had to give up was coffee. Recently I tried again and learned that I could stomach (pardon the pun!) coffee after a good meal. So I save my espresso fix for my writing time after dinner.

And in case you are wondering? It has no affect on my sleep, not even when I was a student.

Do you research your novels?

Sometimes. For the Third Gender series I had to learn about genetic engineering. Fortunately I had biology at school so some of the terminology were not too weird. For Michael’s Mystery I didn’t plan on doing any research, it just happened when I was searching for pictures on Pinterest for the storyboard. I then realised that I needed to learn more about the challenges of living in a desert. Thank you, Pinterest!

 

What was the greatest thing you learned at school?

I learned that I loved learning new things. It was probably the most fundamental reason for studying engineering, and becoming a specialist in two different fields. I did a masters degree in engineering management and started my own consulting company. After that was closed down due to the economic downturn, I went into project management. A friend and I recently started our own publishing company.

I love new challenges. What still amazes me is writing. I have been doing it for fifteen years now, and aside from painting and drawing, has been the one activity that keeps on challenging me. I do all kinds of writing including freelance SEO and technical writing, and there is still so much to learn.

Do you believe in a deity?

Yes, I am a christian.

 

Thank you Linzé.

Folks, you may follow Linzé online at:

Blog * FB Author Page * Twitter * Pinterest * Smashwords * Goodreads * Google+ * Wattpad * IndieWriteNet 

 

Check Out the other Tour Stops:

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Protect Your Data During the Year’s Busiest Travel Weekend

 This post was posted by The Hipmunk on Hipmunk’s Tailwind blog on Nov. 25th.

If you ever travel with a smartphone, laptop, or tablet, your data is at risk of being lost or stolen. Whether it’s the result of a bag disappearing, a drink being spilled, or a cybercriminal hacking your online accounts, data loss can have both minor and major consequences, from losing travel photos to outright identity theft. And with the busiest travel weekend of the year right around the corner, it’s important to keep your data as secure as your belongings — even on the way to grandma’s house.

Unless you’re ready to leave the electronics at home and stick to chronicling your journey with pen and paper alone, it’s time to take data protection seriously. Here’s how to maximize the chances that data stays safe wherever you are.

Before Traveling

Back up digital files. Anything that’s already stored on your electronic devices (especially important files and photos) should be backed up to an external hard drive prior to your departure. That way you have everything you need even if the worst happens and the data gets lost while traveling. While you’re at it, take an inventory of your data so you’ll have a sense of whether anything looks off (or is missing) upon returning home.
Run updates. Make sure you’re running the latest version of devices’ operating systems and antivirus software. Also run antivirus scans prior to departure.
Initiate password protection. Combine this with an inactivity timeout on any electronics that you’ll be bringing along (so people can’t easily log onto your device if they find it unattended). On all devices, be sure to create strong passwords.

While Traveling

Only use secure internet connections. Free or public wireless services are all but guaranteed to be insecure; assume data isn’t safeover these connections, and refrain from entering any sensitive data (also remember that paying for Wi-Fi doesn’t guarantee the connection is secure).

The safest networks are those that are password-protected, and the safest websites are those that start with https://. Using the web browser’s “incognito” or “private browsing” mode can help ensure that personal data doesn’t get saved, but it’s no guarantee of security (likewise for deleting cookies and browsing history after logging off).

Also be sure to disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on all devices whenever they aren’t in use. Want to learn more? Check out the Federal Trade Commission’s guide to Using Public Wi-Fi Networks.
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). Installing a VPN can help protect your data as it’s transferred between different devices. VPNs are especially handy for business travelers who may need to send and receive sensitive documents while on the road.
Disable cookies and auto-fill. These are the features that automatically enter login info and passwords on websites. Be sure to disable this function before traveling—it would only make it easier for electronics thieves to access your personal data.
Don’t upgrade software on public Wi-Fi. Cybercriminals have started to create fake “update” notices that allows them to install malware on travelers’ devices. If the Wi-Fi network isn’t secure, don’t accept any operating system, app, or software upgrades.
Don’t perform online transactions involving money. Whenever possible, avoid accessing online banking, Paypal, or anything that requires you to provide credit card information. And be sure to only use bank ATMs, which are less likely to be hit by identity thieves using card readers.
Create a travel-specific email address. Whenever possible, use adedicated email address just for the trip; this will help you avoid logging into personal or work accounts while traveling. Be sure not to share or store personal information on the new account.
Keep your devices on you at all times. And when they’re not in use, turn them off. If you must leave a device in a hotel room or hostel, make sure to lock it up.

When You Get Back

Change passwords. Update passwords on all devices as well as frequently visited websites.
Take stock. Review bank activity, credit card activity, and health insurance claim activity to confirm that everything looks accurate, and continue keeping tabs on these accounts for at least the next few months.
Run security scans. Run antivirus and anti-spyware scans on all devices. If malware is detected, follow the antivirus tool’s direction for addressing the issue.

It doesn’t matter if you’re exploring Santa Fe’s culture, adventuring in Paris, road-tripping around Ireland, or piling in the car for turkey and family reunions — a little prep, a lot of proactivity, and follow-through upon returning home will all help ensure that your data remains your own no matter where in the world you are.

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Straight From the Heart by Breigh Forstner

BLOG TOUR

STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART

By BREIGH FORSTNER

AVAILABLE ON AMAZON NOW!

‘MUSIC WAS IN HIS BLOOD, AND SHE WAS IN HIS HEART…..’

SYNOPSIS

Cale Pelton didn’t want to fall in love.

Fresh off a breakup, he was scrambling to find a new lead guitarist for his band, Everlasting, before they went on tour. He wanted to enjoy being single, singing his heart out nightly to fans.

Never did he expect to meet Bryn Schaefler, the sassy rich girl that would change his life.

Bryn left her parents’ house with only her suitcase and guitar, leaving her old life behind her. She nails the band audition and becomes Everlasting’s new lead guitarist. Bryn didn’t want to find Cale attractive, let alone develop a crush on a bandmate. But when trouble starts to find the band, Bryn starts to believe her family will do whatever it takes to get her home.

Will Cale and Bryn listen to their heads and stay strictly professional? Or will they follow their hearts and admit their feelings towards eachother?

AUTHOR BIO

Breigh Forstner currently resides in Southeast Michigan with her two daughter. While she works full-time during the week, at night she spends time with her girls dancing and coming up with her next book idea. Her goal is to make it onto a best sellers list at some point in her career, and writes any chance she can get. She is a music lover and is a sucker for going to concerts, rock bands, and tattooed bad boys.

AUTHOR LINKS

Facebook: www.facebook.com/breighforstnerauthor

Twitter: @BreighForstner

Instagram: https://instagram.com/breighforstner/

Blog Page: http://breighforstnerauthor.weebly.com/

BLOGGERS: For review copies, please contact the author.

Follow Breigh’s book news as she’s featured on other blogs throughout the week, including author spotlights, author interviews, guest posts & more!

The Interview

We asked Breigh a few questions, to know her better, and let the woman appear within the author’s cloak.

Breigh currently lives with her two daughters and fiancée in Southeast Michigan, north of Detroit, just minutes from the Blue Water Bridge. She works during the day, but at night she’s a writing machine. Author of the Straight from the Heart Series, she loves to write about female leads and rockers, adding a heavy musical influence to her books.

So, Breigh, Tell us about your most recent release

My most recent release is the re-published book “Straight from the Heart.” It was originally published in July of 2014, but has been picked up by the publishing company Booktrope and will be released in November.

And it is also one of the reason I like to feature you today, a fellow author in the Booktrope family. What else do you have coming out?

I plan on re-releasing my second and third book as well, which are titled “From My Heart” and “Don’t Break My Heart.” I also have a few other WIP’s as well, which are top secret for now at least!

Even more coincidence. You seem to have followed my steps into re-releasing the second and third book with Booktrope. They’re doing the same with my SF Trilogy “Daimones” and will publish my 4th novel, “The Law.” It looks like these people in Booktrope select good and experienced authors. Is there anything more you want to make sure potential readers know about your work?

One thing is that I have a big passion for music, so most of my upcoming novels, including ones already published, have some form of a musical theme incorporated into it.

Interesting. What about the titles of your novels?

The ones I have published are titled “Straight from the Heart,” “From My Heart,” and “Don’t Break My Heart.”

Looks like a theme to me. What about you, then? Have you ever found true love? Yes I have, and I’m engaged to that man now. Surprisingly we met on a dating website over 1 ½ years ago and have pretty much been together ever since.

What is the most demeaning thing said about you as a writer?

I haven’t heard much, but the one thing I remember is that someone said that I wrote like a middle schooler.

Ah ha, so, how do you react to a bad review of one of your books?

At first when I started out I took it very offensively, but now I see it as a way to better my writing.

When are you going to write your autobiography?

When I triple my age! Haha (I’m 25 now)

So, you are a middle schooler! Ok, forget about that. Do you ever wish that you had an entirely uncreative job, like data entry or working in a factory?

I already do! Haha. During the day, I work as a customs broker doing basic data entry for ocean vessels coming from all around the world into the United States. As boring as that sounds, it’s pretty fun at times!

Oops, sorry for having asked that. I guess it does not provide much music to muse on during the day… Let’s change to a topic more in line with your writing. Do you ever write naked?

Never have I done that! Doesn’t mean I won’t sometime, but no I don’t.

Tongue in cheek, I didn’t mean that. Was a trick question. I meant another kind of writing naked. But I’m sure you do write naked (with the second meaning.)  Do you research your novels?

I do on some aspects that I incorporate into them.

See, I was sure you had to write naked at times  Are you jealous of other writers?

No I’m not. I’m happy for an author when they reach success, whether it’s just a release, or they become a best-seller. I’m not one of those people that wants to tear down other authors. I like to support other authors because it’s the basic “treat others how you want to be treated.”

What makes you cry?

When I feel like I’m not as good of a mother as I should be.

What makes you laugh?

When my kids laugh and tell me funny stories and act things out.

Wait a second. 25yo and kids already? You truly did do your research in your love stories!  What’s the loveliest thing you have ever seen?

My two daughters They bring me so much joy every single day and sometimes I tear up when I see them because I’m incredibly lucky to have them.

I only have one (of daughters) but I share your same feelings. What is your favorite genre to read?

Romance, but I also like to read horror, sci-fi/fantasy as well.

Gotcha. Then I hope to have you among my readers. Jennifer Blake (pen name of NYT Historical Romance International Best Seller Author Patricia Maxwell) said my novel Daimones (The Daimones Trilogy Book 1) is “Science Fiction With a Heart.” Thank you Breigh, it was a pleasure to be your host.

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5 Fictional Destinations You Can Actually Visit

This post was posted by the Hipmunk on Hipmunk’s  Tailwind blog  on 11/11/2015.

There’s something magical about seeing the real life setting of a beloved fictional world. These destinations draw travelers to places they might not otherwise go for the pleasantly jarring sensation of finding Tatooine in Tunisia or Narnia in Norway. Here are five of our favorite places that serve as intersections of invention and reality, mixing the familiar with the surprising.

Mdina, Malta: King’s Landing ( Game of Thrones )

Westeros may be fictional, but Game of Thrones fans know the series films everywhere from Iceland to Croatia to recreate locations from the books. The medieval walled city of Mdina in Malta acts as King’s Landing in the show, and travelers may recognize the Mdina Gate as the entrance to the fictional capital. Mdina’s dusky stone buildings and mix of Norman and Baroque architecture lend it a mysterious and mythic quality that translates perfectly into the show. It’s known as the “Silent City:” No cars are allowed within the city walls, and only about 300 people live inside.

Prince Edward Island:  Anne of Green Gables

Since Anne of Green Gables was published in 1908, children and adults have made the pilgrimage to Canada’s lovely Prince Edward Island, where the book is set. The Green Gables farmhouse that inspired L.M. Montgomery’s classic books still stands in Cavendish (named Avonlea in the books) and can be visited year round. Even Mindy Kaling is desperate to see where Anne grew up. In a recent interview with the LA Times, she said, “The other book world I would like to live in is Anne of Green Gables. Living on Prince Edward Island would be so badass.”

Petra, Jordan: Canyon of the Crescent Moon ( Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade )

It’s hard to imagine a more imposingly beautiful filming location for a grail quest than the ancient city of Petra in Jordan. Although Petra was carved into sandstone 2,000 years ago, it only came to the attention of the Western world in 1812 when Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt disguised himself in Bedouin costume to sneak into the site. The Treasury, Al-Khazneh, was most famously used in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and is still open for visitors.

Angel Falls in Venezuela: Paradise Falls ( Up )

Paradise Falls is the central destination Pixar’s Up. Carl’s beloved Ellie never gets to see it herself, but with the help of about 10,000 balloons, Carl and Russell manage to make the trip. Its real life counterpart is Angel Falls in Venezuela, part of the Auyantepui mountain in Canaima National Park. At a height of over 3,000 feet, it’s the tallest uninterrupted waterfall in the world. The hike to see the falls from the top can be a multi-day journey, but the stunning view is worth the trek.

Matamata, New Zealand: Hobbiton ( The Lord of the Rings )

Perhaps the most famous fictional travel destination is the Hobbiton set of Peter Jackson’s adaptations of The Lord of the Rings. Nestled in the countryside surrounding Matamata in New Zealand, the set features over 30 hobbit dwellings as well as a mill and a double-arched stone bridge. After The Hobbit movies finished filming, the houses were left fully furnished for visitors. Truly devoted fans can even enjoy Second Breakfast at the nearby Shire’s Rest Cafe.

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5 Thanksgiving Day Parades Worth Seeing Live and In Person

This post was posted by TheHipmunk on Hipmunk’s Tailwind blog on 11/18/2015.

Since 1863, when President Lincoln proclaimed it a federal holiday, Thanksgiving has marked the official beginning of the holiday season. Many traditions have developed around the day over the decades from the standard turkey dinner with family, food drives to help the underserved, and of course, football. The day is also known for the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, held annually since 1924 and televised on NBC since 1952. While New York City’s parade may be the most famous, we rounded up five other favorites from across the United States!

1. Philadelphia, PA

Founded in 1920, the 1.4 mile 6ABC Dunkin Donuts Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia is actually the oldest Thanksgiving parade in the country. Like others, it features the usual balloons, floats, and marching bands, but Philadelphia’s holiday celebration is best known for its live performances and celebrities. (This year, members of the World Cup-winning U.S. Women’s Soccer Team will be in attendance.) This year’s parade is particularly family-friendly, featuring performers from Disney on Ice’s Frozen (yes, that includes Anna and Elsa). Be sure to explore the official website and check out a map of the best places to watch from. Those wishing to stay close to the action should try the Hyatt at the Belluevue Hotel or the Radisson Blu Warwick Hotel, both of which are well-priced and conveniently located along the parade route.

2. Detroit, MI

Like the Macy’s Parade in New York City, Detroit’s annual America’s Thanksgiving Parade was founded in 1924 and has been delighting residents and visitors ever since. The parade precedes the annual football game by the Lions (who host the Philadelphia Eagles this year) and features balloons, floats, and the unique “Big Head Corps,” walking bobbleheads dressed in costumes of animals, clowns, and celebrities. Spectators can even stroll the parade route themselves prior to the main event at the annual Turkey Trot. Visitors to the Motor City should consider a stay at the Westin Book Cadillac Detroit or the Crowne Plaza Detroit Downtown Riverfront, both of which are located in the heart of downtown, just steps from the parade route.

3. Houston, TX

Travelers hoping to spend Turkey Day in a warmer locale should look to Houston’s H-E-B Holiday Parade, now in its 66th year. Marching bands, cheerleaders, and elaborate floats are met by 200,000 spectators for a raucous and lively celebration. Spectator access along the parade route is free, although those wishing to can purchase tickets to sit in the grandstands (feel free to bring lawn chairs and blankets to settle in). Santa Claus is scheduled to make an appearance this year, so this parade is a great option for families. Book a room at the Hyatt Regency Houston or the Hilton Americas – Houston for conveniently-located, competitively-priced comfort.

4. Chicago, IL

One of only three Thanksgiving parades in the U.S. to be nationally broadcast, Chicago’s McDonald’s Thanksgiving Parade is now in its 81st year. The 2015 parade will feature marching bands from all over Illinois, elaborate equestrian performances, and a show by Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus. Those planning to visit the Windy City for the extravaganza should try staying in the Silversmith Hotel or the Hilton Garden Inn, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Chicago.

5. Plymouth, MA

Want as authentic a Thanksgiving experience as it gets? Go back to where it all began in Plymouth. Known as America’s Hometown Thanksgiving Parade, the town’s festivities actually take place the weekend before the holiday. The parade starts at the waterfront and features historical set pieces based on a chronological history of the United States: the colonial period, the Revolutionary Way, the Civil War, Western pioneers, automatives from the 20th and 21st centuries, and a closing float featuring Santa Claus. Musicians include bugle and drum corps, with multiple ceremonies honoring the Pilgrims and Native Americans who celebrated the very first Thanksgiving in 1621. Visitors should stay right on the waterfront, near the action, at the Hilton Garden Inn Plymouth or the Radisson Hotel Plymouth, both competitively priced and comfortably luxurious.

 

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Finding The One in Paris, the City of Love

This post was posted by TheHipmunk on Hipmunk’s  Tailwind blog   on October 16th 2015.

Poet Arthur Rimbaud— who used a one-way ticket to get to Paris— once compared the sensation of love to the feeling of late night walks “beneath the green lime trees of the Promenade” after filling up on beer and lemonade in “rowdy cafes and their dazzling lights.” One-way tickets litter the streets of Paris, where young lovers meet like living symbolist poems, walking, kissing, and perspiring upon weathered cobblestones and beneath delicate corinthian cornices. Young romantics can count on feeling overwhelmed with options when it comes to the task of planning the perfect day in the City of Love. To mitigate your planning anxieties, we’ve gone ahead and planned the day for you. Je vous en prie, mon amour!

Les Buttes Chaumont

Located in the northeast of the city in the 19th arrondissement, the park offers visitors a wide variety of features: including a breath-taking grotto with cascading waterfalls, a suspension bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel, and the breathtaking Temple de la Sibylle, which sits on the top of tall cliffs, high above the the manmade lake at the park’s center. Purchase an inexpensive bottle of red wine, a fresh block chevre cheese, a baguette, some tupelo honey, and some salumi at a nearby grocery store and head to the park’s center. Ask an attractive stranger to join you for a picnic, and admire blue skies and puffy white clouds as a gentle breeze brushes your cheek. When was the last time you partook in a summersault competition? Have you ever stood on your head for an extended period of time? Les Buttes Chaumont welcomes youthful spirits, warm (and occasionally inebriated) conversations, and contented silence. Two minds, one Les Buttes Chaumont.

La Filmothèque du Quartier Latin

On 9 rue Champollion in Paris’ Latin Quarter, just a few blocks from La Sorbonne, La Filmothèque du Quartier Latin greets every evening with its brightly lit marquee. Featuring retrospective masterworks, films by Godard, Kubrick, Allen, Antonioni, Fellini, Cassavetes regularly hit the screen. The screening rooms are small and cozy; the vibes are hospitable and warm. Take your new friend’s hand in your own and get lost in the illustrious and timeless world of the silver screen.

10 Bar in Saint-Germain des  Prés

Saint-Germain des Prés— an area in the 6th arrondissement of Paris— was once the home of existentialist movement. Coincidentally, the area is now home to one of the best bars in Paris: 10 Bar. Founded in 1955, 10 Bar claims to attract a “record crowd every night” as the “only sangria bar in the capital.” Go early and queue up some choice tunes on the bar’s classic jukebox. Grab a seat next to the massive organ-shaped mahogany mirror in the back and tell the person sitting next to you at the bar about the strangest dream that you’ve ever had, then take a few spins on the dance floor. When you’ve had your share of libations and wildness, take a short cab ride to the luxurious Hotel Bel Ami. Just a short walk away from the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, Pont Neuf, and Musee d’Orsay, Hotel Bel Ami will help to keep the romance alive!

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