Erin Rhew's Blog, page 10
August 17, 2016
Guest Post -- Approaching Publication by J.P. Dailing
Today we're taking a break from my constant chatter (LOL!) because I have the pleasure of hosting J.P. Dailing! He is married to author Jennifer Acres, so they're a married writing duo like me and Deek. #Represent!
His novella, Urban Legend , releases soon! Join him as he hosts an awesome Facebook party to celebrate (deets in the post!)!
Approaching PublicationThree 'C's For Managing the Beast
Self-publishing is a voracious, bloodthirsty beast, and don't let anyone tell you different. I love the beasts though. I want to feed them, cuddle with them, and spend my life raising many, many beast-babies. It'll be a fulfilling life, but not an easy one. The beasts will never be domesticated, are near impossible to tame, are vaguely conceivable to house-train, and even simple survival of each one is a victory.
I'm surviving my first beast right now. Urban Legend is a YA urban fantasy novella series where a young teen orphan, Rylee, begins to manifest illegal magic that captures the attention of the heir to one of the ruling houses within the Vampirum and a government agent for the US Department of Mysticism and Metaphysics. The idea for this series has been coalescing for several years, and now it is finally finding life as my debut book. I'm so excited for Urban Legend's release on August 23rd that I am throwing a Facebook Launch Party with giveaways and live streams and a lot of fun in one place.
During the course grappling with the beast, I discovered the three main pillars of my process which can either act as stepping stones if respected or roadblocks if not: Creativity, Consistency, and Community.
Creativity
The hardest kind of creativity for me isn't coming up with a fresh new story or unique take on a well-loved trope, but getting the stupid manuscript finished. The first draft is hard enough; once the mess is on the page, it is a nightmare that can only be vanquished by the nimblest of wits. "How can I get this character more accessible?" "What can I do to fill this plot hole?" "How can I make these chapters work without tossing two week's worth of work?" "Is there anything I can do make this not horrible?" These kinds of questions raced through my brain every time I sat down do to write and it was ticklish to find ways to hammer down the right answers. Plus if the work isn't hard enough, there are plenty of adulting issues that can crash the party. House-sitting, getting wisdom teeth pulled, and dealing with being rear-ended are a few examples (and all happened to me within the last couple of months). It's like playing 3D sudoku where the result will never come out perfect and is actively trying to murder you with a personal grudge. But the trick is to keep one step ahead and (leading into the next part) keep hacking away.
Consistency
Consistency in writing is key. The words are not going to be good all the time, sometimes the muse isn't talkative and what results resembles a half-digested owl pellet. That's gross and disturbing, but par for the course. Losing a week here and there of writing due to personal crises, day-to-day adulting, or just needing to take a break to avoid burn out can stall productive momentum. (This isn't to say we writers shouldn't have breaks. Breaks are absolutely essential. No one can pour from an empty cup). We are creatures of habit. What we do over and over again, we excel at. For writing to be more than a hobby, it must be a routine, part of my day. My best work has always come through maintaining my schedule. No one wants to drive a car that works really well sometimes, then dies just as often. We'll choose the reliable vehicle that we can trust, even if it looks like it went full speed through Godzilla's digestive tract.
Community
Nothing can be created inside a vacuum. We need to live to express life on the page and we need to have connection to connect with readers. I'm primarily an introvert and, aside from rare exceptions, people tend to tire me out. Not in a negative way; using a phone uses the battery and I need a place to recharge. Yet humanity isn't a collection of lone wolves. We are a pack. I've never felt more excited or alive or more confident with my writing than when I started building my community. Not a network of authors and readers that could help me further my career mind you, but a collection of awesome people I interact with who make me feel happy by exchanging silly gifs or Hamilton references on twitter. I've been spoiled by my beta readers who gave me honest opinions about my work and allowed me to become better. And my wife is the absolute best. She encourages me when I'm down and tells it like it is when my story isn't working. She is my partner in every sense of the term (yes, even in crime). It's too easy to homogenize ideas within yourself. Go out and mix it up a little. You'd be amazed what the results end up being.
Is there a beast you've been wrestling with, or wanting to set free from its cage, or is it still an egg and you fear what might hatch? Go for it. It'll be a monumental effort, possibly violent, always dangerous, and in the end one of the most precious elements of your life. Art shapes the artist who creates. Go forth and show the world what you can do.
J. P. Dailing
YA Fantasy AuthorWebsite
Twitter
FB Party
His novella, Urban Legend , releases soon! Join him as he hosts an awesome Facebook party to celebrate (deets in the post!)!
Approaching PublicationThree 'C's For Managing the Beast
Self-publishing is a voracious, bloodthirsty beast, and don't let anyone tell you different. I love the beasts though. I want to feed them, cuddle with them, and spend my life raising many, many beast-babies. It'll be a fulfilling life, but not an easy one. The beasts will never be domesticated, are near impossible to tame, are vaguely conceivable to house-train, and even simple survival of each one is a victory.
I'm surviving my first beast right now. Urban Legend is a YA urban fantasy novella series where a young teen orphan, Rylee, begins to manifest illegal magic that captures the attention of the heir to one of the ruling houses within the Vampirum and a government agent for the US Department of Mysticism and Metaphysics. The idea for this series has been coalescing for several years, and now it is finally finding life as my debut book. I'm so excited for Urban Legend's release on August 23rd that I am throwing a Facebook Launch Party with giveaways and live streams and a lot of fun in one place.
During the course grappling with the beast, I discovered the three main pillars of my process which can either act as stepping stones if respected or roadblocks if not: Creativity, Consistency, and Community.
Creativity
The hardest kind of creativity for me isn't coming up with a fresh new story or unique take on a well-loved trope, but getting the stupid manuscript finished. The first draft is hard enough; once the mess is on the page, it is a nightmare that can only be vanquished by the nimblest of wits. "How can I get this character more accessible?" "What can I do to fill this plot hole?" "How can I make these chapters work without tossing two week's worth of work?" "Is there anything I can do make this not horrible?" These kinds of questions raced through my brain every time I sat down do to write and it was ticklish to find ways to hammer down the right answers. Plus if the work isn't hard enough, there are plenty of adulting issues that can crash the party. House-sitting, getting wisdom teeth pulled, and dealing with being rear-ended are a few examples (and all happened to me within the last couple of months). It's like playing 3D sudoku where the result will never come out perfect and is actively trying to murder you with a personal grudge. But the trick is to keep one step ahead and (leading into the next part) keep hacking away.
Consistency
Consistency in writing is key. The words are not going to be good all the time, sometimes the muse isn't talkative and what results resembles a half-digested owl pellet. That's gross and disturbing, but par for the course. Losing a week here and there of writing due to personal crises, day-to-day adulting, or just needing to take a break to avoid burn out can stall productive momentum. (This isn't to say we writers shouldn't have breaks. Breaks are absolutely essential. No one can pour from an empty cup). We are creatures of habit. What we do over and over again, we excel at. For writing to be more than a hobby, it must be a routine, part of my day. My best work has always come through maintaining my schedule. No one wants to drive a car that works really well sometimes, then dies just as often. We'll choose the reliable vehicle that we can trust, even if it looks like it went full speed through Godzilla's digestive tract.
Community
Nothing can be created inside a vacuum. We need to live to express life on the page and we need to have connection to connect with readers. I'm primarily an introvert and, aside from rare exceptions, people tend to tire me out. Not in a negative way; using a phone uses the battery and I need a place to recharge. Yet humanity isn't a collection of lone wolves. We are a pack. I've never felt more excited or alive or more confident with my writing than when I started building my community. Not a network of authors and readers that could help me further my career mind you, but a collection of awesome people I interact with who make me feel happy by exchanging silly gifs or Hamilton references on twitter. I've been spoiled by my beta readers who gave me honest opinions about my work and allowed me to become better. And my wife is the absolute best. She encourages me when I'm down and tells it like it is when my story isn't working. She is my partner in every sense of the term (yes, even in crime). It's too easy to homogenize ideas within yourself. Go out and mix it up a little. You'd be amazed what the results end up being.
Is there a beast you've been wrestling with, or wanting to set free from its cage, or is it still an egg and you fear what might hatch? Go for it. It'll be a monumental effort, possibly violent, always dangerous, and in the end one of the most precious elements of your life. Art shapes the artist who creates. Go forth and show the world what you can do.
J. P. Dailing YA Fantasy AuthorWebsite
FB Party
August 12, 2016
Getting Into The Swing of Things Again
So, we moved, and we're working on establishing our "new normal." But I've struggled to find my creative inspiration. See, it's funny because I'm a total pantser when it comes to writing but a planner when it comes to life. Hence, I've been organizing our budget and our house, scheduling visits with friends and family, etc. All that spinning on non-creative things pushed my creativity back into a little box where it sat patiently waiting.
via GIPHY
But...over the last week, I've been having snippets of storyline push through the scheduling. My characters--Molly and Ryder, whose story I've written and re-written a few times now--have become insistent that their story be told. There were always kinks in the tale that didn't quite work for me (hence the writing and re-writing), so Deek and I went on a long walk to discuss it. And, of course, we had queso, the mind-blowing cheese dip we could never get in the Pacific Northwest. Lo and behold, as the cheese imbibed our tastebuds, our minds came alive, and we create solutions to the plot holes. So my creativity has gone from Alice in the pic above to this...
via GIPHY
With a little bit of coffee...
via GIPHY
I'm ready to rock and roll. Prepare to see Molly and Ryder and join them in their epic futuristic thriller adventure soon! My critique partners are doing a happy dance, I think, because most of them have a little crush on Ryder. LOL!
Ok, let's talk Olympics. Man, have those been amazing or what? And PS, the commercials during it are better than the ones for the Superbowl. How did that happen?
I love sitting on the couch with Deek every night and cheering on Team USA in the competitions. I may get a little...
via GIPHY
when exciting things happen, like Simone Manuel and Penny Oleksiak tying for the gold medal. I love the passion, excitement, dedication, and determination of the Olympic athletes!
In Deek and Erin news: We're still in chill mode after so much time on the road and in hotels. We haven't been bitten by the adventure bug quite yet, but I'm sure it's coming.
And can I just say...I really LOVE our new place. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about living in an apartment after so many years in homes and townhomes, but I truly love it! Whenever I walk through the door, I get all giddy and happy feeling on the inside.
via GIPHY
I'm also very thankful to get to spend a lot of time with my family and friends. I missed them all so much when we lived in the Pacific Northwest, and I think it's made me even that much more grateful to have the time with them now.
My friend Kathie and I may have been goofing off at the mall...
And we're meeting new friends too. Last night, Deek and I hung out with some of his work buddies after work and had a great time! I really love hanging out with other people with my husband. He's so friendly, funny, and charming, and it makes me incredibly proud to be there with him.
Deek and I -- being silly while watching the Olympics, after a fun night out with friends
All in all, things are really coming together--creativity, the house, friends, family, life. It was a long journey from the Pacific Northwest to the South, but we're really starting to settle in now. I am excited to see what the future holds for Deek and me, and I'm stoked to tell Molly and Ryder's story.
I thank my lucky stars each and every day that I have such a wonderful partner to enjoy this ride with! I love you, my Deek! #Always
via GIPHY
But...over the last week, I've been having snippets of storyline push through the scheduling. My characters--Molly and Ryder, whose story I've written and re-written a few times now--have become insistent that their story be told. There were always kinks in the tale that didn't quite work for me (hence the writing and re-writing), so Deek and I went on a long walk to discuss it. And, of course, we had queso, the mind-blowing cheese dip we could never get in the Pacific Northwest. Lo and behold, as the cheese imbibed our tastebuds, our minds came alive, and we create solutions to the plot holes. So my creativity has gone from Alice in the pic above to this...
via GIPHY
With a little bit of coffee...
via GIPHY
I'm ready to rock and roll. Prepare to see Molly and Ryder and join them in their epic futuristic thriller adventure soon! My critique partners are doing a happy dance, I think, because most of them have a little crush on Ryder. LOL!
Ok, let's talk Olympics. Man, have those been amazing or what? And PS, the commercials during it are better than the ones for the Superbowl. How did that happen?
I love sitting on the couch with Deek every night and cheering on Team USA in the competitions. I may get a little...
via GIPHY
when exciting things happen, like Simone Manuel and Penny Oleksiak tying for the gold medal. I love the passion, excitement, dedication, and determination of the Olympic athletes!
In Deek and Erin news: We're still in chill mode after so much time on the road and in hotels. We haven't been bitten by the adventure bug quite yet, but I'm sure it's coming.
And can I just say...I really LOVE our new place. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about living in an apartment after so many years in homes and townhomes, but I truly love it! Whenever I walk through the door, I get all giddy and happy feeling on the inside.
via GIPHY
I'm also very thankful to get to spend a lot of time with my family and friends. I missed them all so much when we lived in the Pacific Northwest, and I think it's made me even that much more grateful to have the time with them now.
My friend Kathie and I may have been goofing off at the mall...And we're meeting new friends too. Last night, Deek and I hung out with some of his work buddies after work and had a great time! I really love hanging out with other people with my husband. He's so friendly, funny, and charming, and it makes me incredibly proud to be there with him.
Deek and I -- being silly while watching the Olympics, after a fun night out with friendsAll in all, things are really coming together--creativity, the house, friends, family, life. It was a long journey from the Pacific Northwest to the South, but we're really starting to settle in now. I am excited to see what the future holds for Deek and me, and I'm stoked to tell Molly and Ryder's story.
I thank my lucky stars each and every day that I have such a wonderful partner to enjoy this ride with! I love you, my Deek! #Always
August 4, 2016
The New Normal
Wow. So, we moved across the country, found a place, found a job, and now we're settling into life. It's kind of amazing how you get into a routine, but when you move, it's all upended. Now, Deek and I have to establish the "new normal."
Queen Trinity was ready for everything to be put away. ;)
Dinner of championsOtherwise known as "moving in survial 101"
Examples of our "new normal," Deek used to work from home on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but now he's in the office all week. I miss him terribly when he's away. But we've worked out a plan where I meet him for lunch every Tuesday and Thursday. It's not the same as having him here all day, but at least I get to see his handsome face in the middle of the day. :)
Here we are taking a walk during lunch. Deek works near a gorgeous lake, so we take a nice stroll around it sometimes.
Also, necessity requires that I wake up much earlier than I used to. It's a blessing and curse. It's a blessing because I'm like a super productive little tornado but a curse because I'm sleepy as I don't know what all the time. In fact, last night, Deek and I planned a nap date for today. LOL!
Sleepy all the time...
But I've FINALLY found time to read for pleasure instead of work (notice the coffee cup because...sleepy).
Since we traveled across the country and lived in a hotel for weeks, we haven't been as keen on doing adventures. We're enjoying the comforts of having our own place (in a complex that has a saltwater pool, state-of-the-art gym, 24/7 FREE Starbucks, and more--who would even WANT to leave??). But we have managed to visit a few local goodies.
We went to see Star Trek Beyond with my soul sister and her hubby. They even sprung for us to go to a recliners-and-food movie theater. It was my first time in a joint like that, and wowsa!
Free posters!
Ginormous "Tower of Fries." Oh, so good!
Deek and I had a mini-date at the local stores.
Datin'
Doesn't this hat look like the lady in 101 Dalmatians?
World Market's version of the Iron Throne!
We attended the local Harry Potter event when the Cursed Child released. These are our "nice wizard" pictures. We have some "crazy wizard" ones too, but we look a bit deranged in them. LOL!
And, of course, we worked on decorating our room some more. My soul sister took the photos above our headboard, and she and Deek conspired to frame them and create an amazing Christmas gift for me. But we needed a little something below them to fill the space. When we saw the Mr. and Mrs. stickers, we knew we'd found just the thing!
In other news, we live next to a used bookstore. I *may* be in trouble...
And Deek's work bought him a pair of headphones for the office. I think he likes them. LOL!
I adore this man!
Now that we're starting to settle in, we're thinking of adventures we can go on, but for now, we're enjoying the calm of home and our new normal.
In our years together, Deek and I have been through a lot of wild rides--some good, some bad, some just plain crazy--and we've not only survived but grown stronger and flourished. I am beyond fortunate to take this life journey with a man as wonderful as Deek. There aren't adequate words (and I'm an author!!) to describe just how great his is and how incredibly much I love him!
I wish this kind of mind-blowing love and happiness for all of you!
Until next time, catch some extra zzzzzz's for me. ;)
Queen Trinity was ready for everything to be put away. ;)
Dinner of championsOtherwise known as "moving in survial 101"Examples of our "new normal," Deek used to work from home on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but now he's in the office all week. I miss him terribly when he's away. But we've worked out a plan where I meet him for lunch every Tuesday and Thursday. It's not the same as having him here all day, but at least I get to see his handsome face in the middle of the day. :)
Here we are taking a walk during lunch. Deek works near a gorgeous lake, so we take a nice stroll around it sometimes.Also, necessity requires that I wake up much earlier than I used to. It's a blessing and curse. It's a blessing because I'm like a super productive little tornado but a curse because I'm sleepy as I don't know what all the time. In fact, last night, Deek and I planned a nap date for today. LOL!
Sleepy all the time...But I've FINALLY found time to read for pleasure instead of work (notice the coffee cup because...sleepy).
Since we traveled across the country and lived in a hotel for weeks, we haven't been as keen on doing adventures. We're enjoying the comforts of having our own place (in a complex that has a saltwater pool, state-of-the-art gym, 24/7 FREE Starbucks, and more--who would even WANT to leave??). But we have managed to visit a few local goodies.
We went to see Star Trek Beyond with my soul sister and her hubby. They even sprung for us to go to a recliners-and-food movie theater. It was my first time in a joint like that, and wowsa!
Free posters!
Ginormous "Tower of Fries." Oh, so good!Deek and I had a mini-date at the local stores.
Datin'
Doesn't this hat look like the lady in 101 Dalmatians?
World Market's version of the Iron Throne!
We attended the local Harry Potter event when the Cursed Child released. These are our "nice wizard" pictures. We have some "crazy wizard" ones too, but we look a bit deranged in them. LOL!And, of course, we worked on decorating our room some more. My soul sister took the photos above our headboard, and she and Deek conspired to frame them and create an amazing Christmas gift for me. But we needed a little something below them to fill the space. When we saw the Mr. and Mrs. stickers, we knew we'd found just the thing!
In other news, we live next to a used bookstore. I *may* be in trouble...
And Deek's work bought him a pair of headphones for the office. I think he likes them. LOL!
I adore this man!Now that we're starting to settle in, we're thinking of adventures we can go on, but for now, we're enjoying the calm of home and our new normal.
In our years together, Deek and I have been through a lot of wild rides--some good, some bad, some just plain crazy--and we've not only survived but grown stronger and flourished. I am beyond fortunate to take this life journey with a man as wonderful as Deek. There aren't adequate words (and I'm an author!!) to describe just how great his is and how incredibly much I love him!
I wish this kind of mind-blowing love and happiness for all of you!
Until next time, catch some extra zzzzzz's for me. ;)
July 27, 2016
Rex Cover Reveal -- Common Deer Press
Today is the cover reveal for Rex, by Adam Rocke, Mark Rogers, and Cody B. Stewart.
Title: RexAuthor: Adam Rocke, Mark Rogers, Cody B. StewartGenre: Middle GradeRelease date: October 5, 2016Publisher: http://www.commondeerpress.comPresale Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Rex-Cody-B-Stewart-ebook/dp/B01GUEAVJ4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1467646180&sr=8-1&keywords=common+deer+press
Blurb
When eleven-year-old TJ finds a weird looking egg in the Florida Everglades after a tropical storm rips through, naturally he takes it home for identification. It could be the egg of a mutant duck or something, which would be awesome. Problem is, the egg doesn’t look like it came from a mallard, even a mutated one—it’s too big and heavy and…strange. So he hides it away in his closet and continues on with his life as usual, doing his best to ignore the creepy men constantly banging at his front door and the significant rise in military helicopter sightings in his typically quiet neighbourhood.
Then one day he comes home from school and it’s as though a hand grenade has gone off inside his bedroom. Suddenly, TJ knows he’s dealing with something a little more interesting—and a little more deadly—than a duck.
About the Authors
Cody B. Stewart
Cody B. Stewart was born in the Adirondacks, in Upstate New York. His love of stories began in those mountains as he vanquished trolls, fought in the American Revolution and discovered his latent mutant powers. Stories have continued to consume his life, but he now plucks them out of his head and puts them down on paper in the form of novels and comic books. He left the Adirondacks to grow into a man, did so, and has since returned with a wonderfully supportive wife and two sons.
Adam Rocke
Adam Rocke Slutsky never met an adventure he didn’t love. From swimming with great white sharks without a cage, to jumping out of a plane without a parachute, Adam’s adrenaline junkie tendencies play a major role in his writing. Throw in a secondary degree in CryptoZoology and it’s anyone’s guess where Adam’s literary travels will take him.
Mark Rogers
Mark’s career as a travel journalist has brought him to 56 countries and counting. These trips have fed his imagination while at the same time provided authentic experiences and sensory detail that find their way into his novels and screenplays. Mark’s won multiple awards for his travel writing, including an award for his Hurricane Ivan coverage in Jamaica. His work regularly appears in USA Today and other media outlets. Mark lives in Baja California with his Sinaloa-born wife, Sophy, where they recently built a rock house overlooking the sea.
Now that we've shared this awesome cover, we can't wait to share the book!
See you in October!
www.commondeerpress.comwww.facebook.com/commondeerpress@AHerdOfDeer
Title: RexAuthor: Adam Rocke, Mark Rogers, Cody B. StewartGenre: Middle GradeRelease date: October 5, 2016Publisher: http://www.commondeerpress.comPresale Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/Rex-Cody-B-Stewart-ebook/dp/B01GUEAVJ4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1467646180&sr=8-1&keywords=common+deer+press
Blurb
When eleven-year-old TJ finds a weird looking egg in the Florida Everglades after a tropical storm rips through, naturally he takes it home for identification. It could be the egg of a mutant duck or something, which would be awesome. Problem is, the egg doesn’t look like it came from a mallard, even a mutated one—it’s too big and heavy and…strange. So he hides it away in his closet and continues on with his life as usual, doing his best to ignore the creepy men constantly banging at his front door and the significant rise in military helicopter sightings in his typically quiet neighbourhood.
Then one day he comes home from school and it’s as though a hand grenade has gone off inside his bedroom. Suddenly, TJ knows he’s dealing with something a little more interesting—and a little more deadly—than a duck.
About the Authors
Cody B. Stewart
Cody B. Stewart was born in the Adirondacks, in Upstate New York. His love of stories began in those mountains as he vanquished trolls, fought in the American Revolution and discovered his latent mutant powers. Stories have continued to consume his life, but he now plucks them out of his head and puts them down on paper in the form of novels and comic books. He left the Adirondacks to grow into a man, did so, and has since returned with a wonderfully supportive wife and two sons.
Adam Rocke
Adam Rocke Slutsky never met an adventure he didn’t love. From swimming with great white sharks without a cage, to jumping out of a plane without a parachute, Adam’s adrenaline junkie tendencies play a major role in his writing. Throw in a secondary degree in CryptoZoology and it’s anyone’s guess where Adam’s literary travels will take him.Mark Rogers
Mark’s career as a travel journalist has brought him to 56 countries and counting. These trips have fed his imagination while at the same time provided authentic experiences and sensory detail that find their way into his novels and screenplays. Mark’s won multiple awards for his travel writing, including an award for his Hurricane Ivan coverage in Jamaica. His work regularly appears in USA Today and other media outlets. Mark lives in Baja California with his Sinaloa-born wife, Sophy, where they recently built a rock house overlooking the sea.
Now that we've shared this awesome cover, we can't wait to share the book!
See you in October!
www.commondeerpress.comwww.facebook.com/commondeerpress@AHerdOfDeer
July 24, 2016
The Great Move East
Hello, everyone! Whew, it's been a CRAZY month, but I'm so glad to be getting settled into our new home and life and to be getting back to writing and blogging. Let me catch you up to date:
When I first moved to the Pacific Northwest to live with Deek, we knew we'd only be there for about 2 years (though my family and friends were convinced I was never coming back--LOL) before he moved with me to my home state. At the time, 2 years seemed to be a long way off, but boy, they flew by.
Here we are over 2 years ago before we set out on our journey to the west!
Deek and I started prepping for the move back in January. We scanned pictures, pared our stuff, laterally traded our compact car for an SUV with a tow package, etc. But when we stared inside that 6x12 U-Haul trailer, we realized we hadn't pared down enough. So, we sold more than half our remaining belongs on Craigslist and at a yard sale with the intention of getting new things off Craigslist when we arrived. We shoved everything we could into that tiny trailer (thank goodness Deek is the master packer and got way more stuff in that U-Haul and on top of our vehicle than most people ever could have) and headed east. Deek wrote all about our adventures in his blog post here!
Since Deek had several job interviews lined up, we had to book it across the country. We didn't do our normal leisurely pace, nor did we get to do that awesome route we'd planned. But don't worry, we will go that route soon, and you'll get to see all the pics. LOL! So, weirdly, because our days consisted of 12-13 hours of driving, we didn't take many pics. Wut the wut? I know, we're just as shocked as you are.
Here are a few we managed to snag:
The red rocks of Utah
The open road and my smiley face socks
Gorgeous sunsets
As soon as we arrived, Deek hit the ground running on interviews and received 6 offers (I'm so proud of my super intelligent, charming man!!). After we selected the job, we hunted for houses nearby. Since Deek's used to walking to work, we didn't want to live very far away. With the job and house selected, we began the waiting process--waiting for the first day of work and waiting for our house to be ready to move into. And while we had to wait and live in a hotel, we decided to live in a hotel at the beach. My favorite beach, to be exact--Myrtle Beach, SC. Deek has heard about Myrtle Beach ever since he met me, and he finally got to go!!
From sea to shining sea! Deek made it coast to coast!
Myrtle Beach is called the "Las Vegas of the South." Here, everything is "go big or go home." There are so many wonders to feast your eyes on as you drive around. And, you know I have to say it...it's a warm beach! Hallelujah! I have missed a warm beach. There's just something about feeling the blazing sun on your skin and getting the good ole suntan sweat going that makes me smile. Ahhhhh...
Wait, is that King Kong??
Deek and I had a blast walking around Broadway at the Beach. There's so many crazy things to see and so many interesting restaurants and shops!
Wonderworks, the upside down building
Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville restaurant
My superman! <heart eyes>
The leg lamp!!! A Christmas Story is one of my favs!
I don't even know what to say about this one. LOL!
My vote for 2016!
Hard Rock Cafe. For some inexplicable reason, they're tearing down the pyramid and making a regular, boring old building. Glad Deek got to see the cool one before it got torn down.
Heehee. Not biased.
So true!!
The gorgeous, warm beach!
View from the pier
Skywheel and fireworks! What a great way to end the night!
We decided to give the upside down building, Wonderworks, a try. Such a fun place!!
Experiencing hurricane force winds.
Deek compared to Shaq.
My hand compared to Shaq's hand.
Bed of nails!!
Astronaut Deek
Laser tag. Watch out! Team Tenacious in da house!
We decided to eat at Margaritaville and got selected to help the staff dance during the Margaritaville song. OMG, it was so amazingly fun!!!
That night, we went to the Carolina Opry. I haven't been there to see a show since I was a teenager. I'm so thankful to have gotten to share a piece of my younger life with Deek!
More walking around Broadway at the Beach
Last weekend, we moved into our new place, and the following Monday, Deek started his new job. We're still unpacking boxes and getting settled, but after nearly three weeks in a hotel, we're beyond thankful to have our own home. And Deek LOVES his new job. We're so glad we selected that one out of the bunch. He even gets to wear shorts and flip flops every day! Wut?
PS. If you ever need to live in a hotel for a while, LaQuinta offers exceptional weekly rates, and they allow pets to stay for free.
Now that the big move has happened, it's time to figure out our "normal" routine here in the South. This morning, I'm writing a blog and Deek's editing, so we're starting to ease back into it!
And of course, we have our "wall of us" up in our bedroom. We're representing both weddings and both coasts!
Let me just brag on my husband for a minute: Holy cow, y'all, he's the most chill person I've ever met. Even with all the heightened stress of moving, living in a hotel, interviewing, house hunting, and all that craziness, he never lost his cool. He constantly joked and kept me laughing too. Every day, he made sure I felt loved and cared for. I appreciate him more than I can ever say. There's a reason my dad refers to Deek as "the saint." He's the best man I've ever known, and I'm beyond blessed to call him my husband!
Thanks for taking this amazing journey with us! We are officially Southerners! Yee haw!
When I first moved to the Pacific Northwest to live with Deek, we knew we'd only be there for about 2 years (though my family and friends were convinced I was never coming back--LOL) before he moved with me to my home state. At the time, 2 years seemed to be a long way off, but boy, they flew by.
Here we are over 2 years ago before we set out on our journey to the west!Deek and I started prepping for the move back in January. We scanned pictures, pared our stuff, laterally traded our compact car for an SUV with a tow package, etc. But when we stared inside that 6x12 U-Haul trailer, we realized we hadn't pared down enough. So, we sold more than half our remaining belongs on Craigslist and at a yard sale with the intention of getting new things off Craigslist when we arrived. We shoved everything we could into that tiny trailer (thank goodness Deek is the master packer and got way more stuff in that U-Haul and on top of our vehicle than most people ever could have) and headed east. Deek wrote all about our adventures in his blog post here!
Since Deek had several job interviews lined up, we had to book it across the country. We didn't do our normal leisurely pace, nor did we get to do that awesome route we'd planned. But don't worry, we will go that route soon, and you'll get to see all the pics. LOL! So, weirdly, because our days consisted of 12-13 hours of driving, we didn't take many pics. Wut the wut? I know, we're just as shocked as you are.
Here are a few we managed to snag:
The red rocks of Utah
The open road and my smiley face socks
Gorgeous sunsetsAs soon as we arrived, Deek hit the ground running on interviews and received 6 offers (I'm so proud of my super intelligent, charming man!!). After we selected the job, we hunted for houses nearby. Since Deek's used to walking to work, we didn't want to live very far away. With the job and house selected, we began the waiting process--waiting for the first day of work and waiting for our house to be ready to move into. And while we had to wait and live in a hotel, we decided to live in a hotel at the beach. My favorite beach, to be exact--Myrtle Beach, SC. Deek has heard about Myrtle Beach ever since he met me, and he finally got to go!!
From sea to shining sea! Deek made it coast to coast!Myrtle Beach is called the "Las Vegas of the South." Here, everything is "go big or go home." There are so many wonders to feast your eyes on as you drive around. And, you know I have to say it...it's a warm beach! Hallelujah! I have missed a warm beach. There's just something about feeling the blazing sun on your skin and getting the good ole suntan sweat going that makes me smile. Ahhhhh...
Wait, is that King Kong??Deek and I had a blast walking around Broadway at the Beach. There's so many crazy things to see and so many interesting restaurants and shops!
Wonderworks, the upside down building
Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville restaurant
My superman! <heart eyes>
The leg lamp!!! A Christmas Story is one of my favs!
I don't even know what to say about this one. LOL!
My vote for 2016!
Hard Rock Cafe. For some inexplicable reason, they're tearing down the pyramid and making a regular, boring old building. Glad Deek got to see the cool one before it got torn down.
Heehee. Not biased.
So true!!
The gorgeous, warm beach!
View from the pier
Skywheel and fireworks! What a great way to end the night!We decided to give the upside down building, Wonderworks, a try. Such a fun place!!
Experiencing hurricane force winds. 
Deek compared to Shaq. 
My hand compared to Shaq's hand.
Bed of nails!!
Astronaut Deek
Laser tag. Watch out! Team Tenacious in da house!
We decided to eat at Margaritaville and got selected to help the staff dance during the Margaritaville song. OMG, it was so amazingly fun!!! 
That night, we went to the Carolina Opry. I haven't been there to see a show since I was a teenager. I'm so thankful to have gotten to share a piece of my younger life with Deek! 
More walking around Broadway at the BeachLast weekend, we moved into our new place, and the following Monday, Deek started his new job. We're still unpacking boxes and getting settled, but after nearly three weeks in a hotel, we're beyond thankful to have our own home. And Deek LOVES his new job. We're so glad we selected that one out of the bunch. He even gets to wear shorts and flip flops every day! Wut?
PS. If you ever need to live in a hotel for a while, LaQuinta offers exceptional weekly rates, and they allow pets to stay for free.
Now that the big move has happened, it's time to figure out our "normal" routine here in the South. This morning, I'm writing a blog and Deek's editing, so we're starting to ease back into it!
And of course, we have our "wall of us" up in our bedroom. We're representing both weddings and both coasts! Let me just brag on my husband for a minute: Holy cow, y'all, he's the most chill person I've ever met. Even with all the heightened stress of moving, living in a hotel, interviewing, house hunting, and all that craziness, he never lost his cool. He constantly joked and kept me laughing too. Every day, he made sure I felt loved and cared for. I appreciate him more than I can ever say. There's a reason my dad refers to Deek as "the saint." He's the best man I've ever known, and I'm beyond blessed to call him my husband!
Thanks for taking this amazing journey with us! We are officially Southerners! Yee haw!
June 21, 2016
The Great Move and A Simple Life
So, Deek and I are up to our elbows in boxes and cleaning supplies as we prepare to move across the country. It's been a little hectic, but we're working on it like a boss. I'm beyond grateful to have such an amazing, involved partner.
Since we've moved 3 times (this will be our 4th) in 2 years, we've learned two important things:
1) Purge. Get rid of the junk. Stuff is not important; it's just stuff. Pare down until you're at the necessities and give away the rest. You'll feel better for having done it, and your house will look better. Also, it's easier to clean without the clutter.
I'm in a bandana with paint-spattered pants and a beat-up shirt. It's technically my cleaning outfit, but I'm calling it a "Bohemian" look. ;)
2) Prepare in advance. We've been in a 2am-still-throwing-mess-in-boxes situation, and we don't want that drama this time. So, we started prepping for this move about six months ago. And we started with pictures, of which we had boxes and boxes. We sorted them by year and person and scanned them all into the computer. Ah-mazing!
I recommend this little scanner; it's so easy to use.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XDGY0S6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
And we totally recommend Google Photos. We tried to use Amazon Photos, but the organizing in that thing was a total nightmare (and it took forever to open when you tried to access the pics). Google Photos has it down. Everything is well organized and easy to find. Plus, you can make collages, animations, and movies right from the program. It's really genius. And you can share the folders out with other people. When we went to Mt. St. Helen's with Deek's parents, I uploaded all the pics to Google Photo (simple to do with an app--just open the app when you're on wifi, and Google Photos takes care of the rest), made a folder, and shared the photos with them. Easy peasy.
Mt. St. Helen's
Here's an example of the animations it does.
Now, instead of carrying boxes and boxes of photos with us, we have them all safely stored in the cloud. It eliminates my answer to the hypothetical: what would you grab if there were a fire (assuming all people and pets get out safely). I always said my photos, but now I don't have to! WOOT!
Blast from the past-- Little Erin
Graduate Jay back in the day (I'm a poet...)
I will miss the Pacific Northwest. It has a lot of things going for it: the beautiful scenery, interesting people, mild temperatures, and no biting snakes. But I won't miss the cold beaches (they're pretty to look at but not very functional to enjoy) or the crazy traffic.
I'm really ready to see my family and friends. I haven't seen them in a year, and that's the longest I've ever gone without seeing them in my whole life. In fact, before I moved, I don't think I ever went a month without seeing them! But I will definitely miss the wonderful friends and family we have here. So, it's a bittersweet journey we're on.
Me and my soul sista!
Can't wait to get back to these ladies and all my other friends!You up for another movie night??
But we'll miss our friends here.
And this amazing city!
And all the weird contained within
Deek is leaving everything he's ever known and heading to a totally new place. Aside from some moving around when he was too little to remember, he's mostly lived in this same area of the Pacific Northwest. But he'll be coming down South to be enveloped by my big ole loving family and my slew of amazing friends. He's definitely sad to leave, but he's also excited to experience something new!
Goodbye lush, green, beautiful PNW
Hello the hospitable, fun-loving, gorgeous South
In truth, I would follow Deek to the ends of the earth, through the Mists of Avalon. Wherever he is, that's my home. HE'S my home. I'm ready to start this new adventure with the love of my life. No matter what, it will be fun because I'm holding hands with my best friend for the journey!
Word
Peace out, my friends! The next time you hear from me, I'll likely be blogging in another time zone, clear across the country. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other. Live out loud!
Since we've moved 3 times (this will be our 4th) in 2 years, we've learned two important things:
1) Purge. Get rid of the junk. Stuff is not important; it's just stuff. Pare down until you're at the necessities and give away the rest. You'll feel better for having done it, and your house will look better. Also, it's easier to clean without the clutter.
I'm in a bandana with paint-spattered pants and a beat-up shirt. It's technically my cleaning outfit, but I'm calling it a "Bohemian" look. ;) 2) Prepare in advance. We've been in a 2am-still-throwing-mess-in-boxes situation, and we don't want that drama this time. So, we started prepping for this move about six months ago. And we started with pictures, of which we had boxes and boxes. We sorted them by year and person and scanned them all into the computer. Ah-mazing!
I recommend this little scanner; it's so easy to use.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XDGY0S6/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
And we totally recommend Google Photos. We tried to use Amazon Photos, but the organizing in that thing was a total nightmare (and it took forever to open when you tried to access the pics). Google Photos has it down. Everything is well organized and easy to find. Plus, you can make collages, animations, and movies right from the program. It's really genius. And you can share the folders out with other people. When we went to Mt. St. Helen's with Deek's parents, I uploaded all the pics to Google Photo (simple to do with an app--just open the app when you're on wifi, and Google Photos takes care of the rest), made a folder, and shared the photos with them. Easy peasy.
Mt. St. Helen'sHere's an example of the animations it does.
Now, instead of carrying boxes and boxes of photos with us, we have them all safely stored in the cloud. It eliminates my answer to the hypothetical: what would you grab if there were a fire (assuming all people and pets get out safely). I always said my photos, but now I don't have to! WOOT!
Blast from the past-- Little Erin
Graduate Jay back in the day (I'm a poet...)I will miss the Pacific Northwest. It has a lot of things going for it: the beautiful scenery, interesting people, mild temperatures, and no biting snakes. But I won't miss the cold beaches (they're pretty to look at but not very functional to enjoy) or the crazy traffic.
I'm really ready to see my family and friends. I haven't seen them in a year, and that's the longest I've ever gone without seeing them in my whole life. In fact, before I moved, I don't think I ever went a month without seeing them! But I will definitely miss the wonderful friends and family we have here. So, it's a bittersweet journey we're on.
Me and my soul sista!
Can't wait to get back to these ladies and all my other friends!You up for another movie night?? 
But we'll miss our friends here.
And this amazing city!
And all the weird contained withinDeek is leaving everything he's ever known and heading to a totally new place. Aside from some moving around when he was too little to remember, he's mostly lived in this same area of the Pacific Northwest. But he'll be coming down South to be enveloped by my big ole loving family and my slew of amazing friends. He's definitely sad to leave, but he's also excited to experience something new!
Goodbye lush, green, beautiful PNW
Hello the hospitable, fun-loving, gorgeous SouthIn truth, I would follow Deek to the ends of the earth, through the Mists of Avalon. Wherever he is, that's my home. HE'S my home. I'm ready to start this new adventure with the love of my life. No matter what, it will be fun because I'm holding hands with my best friend for the journey!
WordPeace out, my friends! The next time you hear from me, I'll likely be blogging in another time zone, clear across the country. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other. Live out loud!
June 13, 2016
Adventuring With The Rhews Part 3
So, Deek and I are in the throes (this word makes me smile because it looks like thrones--as in Game of Thrones--but I digress) of getting ready for our move across the country. It's a complicated endeavor, supremely complicated. But, as we do all things, we're kicking bootae together, hand-in-hand. Some days, we're Daffy Duck basketcases, but we have each other to lean on. And that makes all the difference in the world. I love my man! <3
Deek and I made a "must see before we leave" list, and we've been to nearly all the place. But one kept lingering out there...Mount St. Helens. We wanted to go on a nice day, so we could clearly see the mountain in all its glory. And I kid you not, every single weekend we had free...it rained. Until this past weekend. Hallelujah, thank goodness, bright sunshine. Oh, and 100 degrees!
via GIPHY
Side note: Deek thinks it's completely hilarious that I'm a Southern girl who complains on really hot days. Well, I like being warm (I abhor being cold), but I don't like being hot and sweaty. As I explained to him, we Southerners go from our air-conditioned homes to our air-conditioned cars to our air-conditions stores and restaurants. We don't linger in the blazing heat if we can help it.
Despite the 100 degree weather, we called up Deek's parents, who've also NEVER been to Mount St. Helens, and decided to do the trip! And I've got one word to describe it...WOW! Holy moly, folks, it's majestic and terrifying all at the same time. The power of nature commands respect, I'll tell you that for sure!
The mountain in the distance
There are multiple lookouts on the way up to St. Helens, and I recommend stopping at them all! This place was gorgeous on the inside and had a great view outside. We ate lunch while looking at the mountain.
We stopped at this learning center, which had lots of interesting information about the eruption and the replanting efforts post disaster.
Yep, still wearing a hat. Only one more week of hair healing before I can emerge like a butterfly! ;)
Getting closer...another viewpoint.
Hubba hubba!
I love this man and our adventures!
Ready to learn! We watched an AMAZING video. I totally recommend that to everyone because there is an uber cool surprise at the end!
View from the main learning center and observatory. You can see right into the crater. Amazing!
Resting after a big climb in 100 degree weather. This Southern girl is glistening (since we Southern Belles don't sweat)! ;)
It's been 36 years, but the landscape still bears the scars of the eruption.
I liked this perspective with the sundial thing.
These trees are twisted like Twizzlers!
This little guy was super friendly and adorable!
I love this shot. It shows all the trees that fell in the blast zone, the mountain, gorgeous flowers, and my little chipmunk buddy! :)
Since both bridges had wrecks, we were stuck. But we made the best of it by eating at The Rock. I love the movie The Rock, so I did a little squee to see a "Welcome To The Rock" sign in the restaurant.
Even amidst the craziness of preparing a cross-country move, Deek and I manage to find time to have fun and connect every day. I love those moments when we lie in our bed face-to-face--talking and laughing--while the world and all the busyness of it fades away. In good times and in bad, in stressful times and in calm ones, I'm beyond thankful to have my best friend, partner, and soulmate by my side.
Up next...Crater Lake. Stay tuned! Until then, live life out loud, my friends! We only have one life, so live it Mach 5 with your hair on fire! ((HUGS)
Deek and I made a "must see before we leave" list, and we've been to nearly all the place. But one kept lingering out there...Mount St. Helens. We wanted to go on a nice day, so we could clearly see the mountain in all its glory. And I kid you not, every single weekend we had free...it rained. Until this past weekend. Hallelujah, thank goodness, bright sunshine. Oh, and 100 degrees!
via GIPHY
Side note: Deek thinks it's completely hilarious that I'm a Southern girl who complains on really hot days. Well, I like being warm (I abhor being cold), but I don't like being hot and sweaty. As I explained to him, we Southerners go from our air-conditioned homes to our air-conditioned cars to our air-conditions stores and restaurants. We don't linger in the blazing heat if we can help it.
Despite the 100 degree weather, we called up Deek's parents, who've also NEVER been to Mount St. Helens, and decided to do the trip! And I've got one word to describe it...WOW! Holy moly, folks, it's majestic and terrifying all at the same time. The power of nature commands respect, I'll tell you that for sure!
The mountain in the distance
There are multiple lookouts on the way up to St. Helens, and I recommend stopping at them all! This place was gorgeous on the inside and had a great view outside. We ate lunch while looking at the mountain.
We stopped at this learning center, which had lots of interesting information about the eruption and the replanting efforts post disaster.
Yep, still wearing a hat. Only one more week of hair healing before I can emerge like a butterfly! ;) 
Getting closer...another viewpoint.
Hubba hubba!
I love this man and our adventures!
Ready to learn! We watched an AMAZING video. I totally recommend that to everyone because there is an uber cool surprise at the end!
View from the main learning center and observatory. You can see right into the crater. Amazing!
Resting after a big climb in 100 degree weather. This Southern girl is glistening (since we Southern Belles don't sweat)! ;) 
It's been 36 years, but the landscape still bears the scars of the eruption.
I liked this perspective with the sundial thing.
These trees are twisted like Twizzlers!
This little guy was super friendly and adorable!
I love this shot. It shows all the trees that fell in the blast zone, the mountain, gorgeous flowers, and my little chipmunk buddy! :)
Since both bridges had wrecks, we were stuck. But we made the best of it by eating at The Rock. I love the movie The Rock, so I did a little squee to see a "Welcome To The Rock" sign in the restaurant.Even amidst the craziness of preparing a cross-country move, Deek and I manage to find time to have fun and connect every day. I love those moments when we lie in our bed face-to-face--talking and laughing--while the world and all the busyness of it fades away. In good times and in bad, in stressful times and in calm ones, I'm beyond thankful to have my best friend, partner, and soulmate by my side.
Up next...Crater Lake. Stay tuned! Until then, live life out loud, my friends! We only have one life, so live it Mach 5 with your hair on fire! ((HUGS)
June 6, 2016
Adventuring With The Rhews Part 2
So I ran out of room on my last post about the Redwoods (I am a chatty author, after all), so here's part two about our trip to Astoria!!
As I said in the last post, Deek and I have less than one month before the BIG move! We're rushing around like chickens with our heads cut off trying to get everything set up in the South and closed down here in the Pacific Northwest. AND we want to be sure we squeeze in some of our "must see" items. Hence, every weekend is now booked with friends, family, and adventure!!
Last weekend, we went to Astoria, Oregon with Deek's parents to see all things Goonies related!! PS. If you're wondering why I'm always wearing a hat lately, there's a reason. I went from purple back to blonde, and it's a hard process on the hair. It's in a "recovery" state for the next three weeks. I'm not allowed to flat iron or blow dry it during that time, and I'm supposed to wear a bun or hat to keep it most protected. ;) The things we do for beauty... LOL!
Anyway, on to Astoria...
The lovely city of Astoria from up high
The view above is from the top of this puppy--The Astoria Column. It's 164 very narrow steps round and round in an itty bitty circle to get to the top. What a good quad workout! ;)
The landing on this thing is TEENY tiny! People are bumping and shoving to get around and see stuff, and you feel like you could be pitched over the side by other people or the wind. A little unnerving to say the least. But worth it for the views!
The house from the movie Short Circuit! Who knew so many films were made in this little town?
Deer, just frolicking in the grass outside the Short Circuit house.
The jailhouse from Goonies, which is now the Oregon Film Museum!
Goin' to jail...
Upon entrance to the film museum, you get to have a mug shot taken! We all agreed Deek's dad has THE BEST mugshot. ROFL!
When authors get booked
He's menacing in this one!!
Hahaha!
Deek's mom and me--LOL!
And Deek's dad--BEST shot of the day!!
We made it to the Goondocks!!
Deek and I on the film set.
Deek's parents on the film set. They were laughing so hard they couldn't hardly talk. LOL!
Data's coat!!
Jailbirds (Deek's mom trips me out peeking in from the back!
This made me laugh out loud. LOVE IT!
Flavel house. WOW!
I went to find the bathrooms, found this heart stone, and texted it to my love, Deek! <3
Inside the Flavel house. Doesn't he look distinguished?
Astoria Trolley! I was so excited to ride this thing. It had THE coolest seats ever!
This sign trips me out!
Deek's parents on the trolley
The boardwalk where they filmed some scenes from Free Willy!
The Astoria bridge!
PS. If you're wondering why the posts are still in the water, here's the answer. Whoever had a claim on the docks that used to be there retains the right as long as the stumps are in the water. If they're pulled up, that section of water become property of the city.
The Red Building. LOL! Clever naming... ;)
The only bit of sandy beach in all of Astoria
We ate a restaurant that has a Plexiglass floor which allows you to see the sea lions hanging out on the docks below!
Amazing buildings!
Wow!
So the owner of the Goonies' house no longer allows people on the property because of vandalism, theft, and voyeurism. What's wrong with people these days?
We respected the owner's wishes and viewed the house from afar.
The school from Kindergarten Cop
We decided to ride over the bridge into Washington
Ominous clouds
I love this pic
So, overall, I just thought we'd go to Astoria to see the Goonies memorabilia and leave. What I didn't expect...I really loved Astoria. In fact, I want to live there for a while when Deek and I do our vagabond life. Deek agreed, so it's officially on the "vagabond life list." And I know just the neighborhood I'd like to try to find a house in. Seriously, if you get a chance to go to Astoria, do. It's a beautiful, quaint, adorable town!
Big thanks to Deek and his parents for the amazing weekend. We talked and laughed the whole day, and I loved every minute of it. Family...that's what it's all about, folks!
As I said in the last post, Deek and I have less than one month before the BIG move! We're rushing around like chickens with our heads cut off trying to get everything set up in the South and closed down here in the Pacific Northwest. AND we want to be sure we squeeze in some of our "must see" items. Hence, every weekend is now booked with friends, family, and adventure!!
Last weekend, we went to Astoria, Oregon with Deek's parents to see all things Goonies related!! PS. If you're wondering why I'm always wearing a hat lately, there's a reason. I went from purple back to blonde, and it's a hard process on the hair. It's in a "recovery" state for the next three weeks. I'm not allowed to flat iron or blow dry it during that time, and I'm supposed to wear a bun or hat to keep it most protected. ;) The things we do for beauty... LOL!
Anyway, on to Astoria...
The lovely city of Astoria from up high
The view above is from the top of this puppy--The Astoria Column. It's 164 very narrow steps round and round in an itty bitty circle to get to the top. What a good quad workout! ;) 
The landing on this thing is TEENY tiny! People are bumping and shoving to get around and see stuff, and you feel like you could be pitched over the side by other people or the wind. A little unnerving to say the least. But worth it for the views!
The house from the movie Short Circuit! Who knew so many films were made in this little town?
Deer, just frolicking in the grass outside the Short Circuit house.
The jailhouse from Goonies, which is now the Oregon Film Museum!
Goin' to jail...Upon entrance to the film museum, you get to have a mug shot taken! We all agreed Deek's dad has THE BEST mugshot. ROFL!
When authors get booked
He's menacing in this one!!
Hahaha!
Deek's mom and me--LOL!
And Deek's dad--BEST shot of the day!!
We made it to the Goondocks!!
Deek and I on the film set.
Deek's parents on the film set. They were laughing so hard they couldn't hardly talk. LOL!
Data's coat!!
Jailbirds (Deek's mom trips me out peeking in from the back!
This made me laugh out loud. LOVE IT!
Flavel house. WOW!
I went to find the bathrooms, found this heart stone, and texted it to my love, Deek! <3
Inside the Flavel house. Doesn't he look distinguished?
Astoria Trolley! I was so excited to ride this thing. It had THE coolest seats ever!
This sign trips me out!
Deek's parents on the trolley
The boardwalk where they filmed some scenes from Free Willy!
The Astoria bridge!PS. If you're wondering why the posts are still in the water, here's the answer. Whoever had a claim on the docks that used to be there retains the right as long as the stumps are in the water. If they're pulled up, that section of water become property of the city.
The Red Building. LOL! Clever naming... ;) 
The only bit of sandy beach in all of Astoria
We ate a restaurant that has a Plexiglass floor which allows you to see the sea lions hanging out on the docks below!
Amazing buildings!
Wow!
So the owner of the Goonies' house no longer allows people on the property because of vandalism, theft, and voyeurism. What's wrong with people these days?
We respected the owner's wishes and viewed the house from afar.
The school from Kindergarten Cop
We decided to ride over the bridge into Washington
Ominous clouds
I love this picSo, overall, I just thought we'd go to Astoria to see the Goonies memorabilia and leave. What I didn't expect...I really loved Astoria. In fact, I want to live there for a while when Deek and I do our vagabond life. Deek agreed, so it's officially on the "vagabond life list." And I know just the neighborhood I'd like to try to find a house in. Seriously, if you get a chance to go to Astoria, do. It's a beautiful, quaint, adorable town!
Big thanks to Deek and his parents for the amazing weekend. We talked and laughed the whole day, and I loved every minute of it. Family...that's what it's all about, folks!
Adventuring With The Rhew Part 2
So I ran out of room on my last post about the Redwoods (I am a chatty author, after all), so here's part two about our trip to Astoria!!
As I said in the last post, Deek and I have less than one month before the BIG move! We're rushing around like chickens with our heads cut off trying to get everything set up in the South and closed down here in the Pacific Northwest. AND we want to be sure we squeeze in some of our "must see" items. Hence, every weekend is now booked with friends, family, and adventure!!
Last weekend, we went to Astoria, Oregon with Deek's parents to see all things Goonies related!! PS. If you're wondering why I'm always wearing a hat lately, there's a reason. I went from purple back to blonde, and it's a hard process on the hair. It's in a "recovery" state for the next three weeks. I'm not allowed to flat iron or blow dry it during that time, and I'm supposed to wear a bun or hat to keep it most protected. ;) The things we do for beauty... LOL!
Anyway, on to Astoria...
The lovely city of Astoria from up high
The view above is from the top of this puppy--The Astoria Column. It's 164 very narrow steps round and round in an itty bitty circle to get to the top. What a good quad workout! ;)
The landing on this thing is TEENY tiny! People are bumping and shoving to get around and see stuff, and you feel like you could be pitched over the side by other people or the wind. A little unnerving to say the least. But worth it for the views!
The house from the movie Short Circuit! Who knew so many films were made in this little town?
Deer, just frolicking in the grass outside the Short Circuit house.
The jailhouse from Goonies, which is now the Oregon Film Museum!
Goin' to jail...
Upon entrance to the film museum, you get to have a mug shot taken! We all agreed Deek's dad has THE BEST mugshot. ROFL!
When authors get booked
He's menacing in this one!!
Hahaha!
Deek's mom and me--LOL!
And Deek's dad--BEST shot of the day!!
We made it to the Goondocks!!
Deek and I on the film set.
Deek's parents on the film set. They were laughing so hard they couldn't hardly talk. LOL!
Data's coat!!
Jailbirds (Deek's mom trips me out peeking in from the back!
This made me laugh out loud. LOVE IT!
Flavel house. WOW!
I went to find the bathrooms, found this heart stone, and texted it to my love, Deek! <3
Inside the Flavel house. Doesn't he look distinguished?
Astoria Trolley! I was so excited to ride this thing. It had THE coolest seats ever!
This sign trips me out!
Deek's parents on the trolley
The boardwalk where they filmed some scenes from Free Willy!
The Astoria bridge!
PS. If you're wondering why the posts are still in the water, here's the answer. Whoever had a claim on the docks that used to be there retains the right as long as the stumps are in the water. If they're pulled up, that section of water become property of the city.
The Red Building. LOL! Clever naming... ;)
The only bit of sandy beach in all of Astoria
We ate a restaurant that has a Plexiglass floor which allows you to see the sea lions hanging out on the docks below!
Amazing buildings!
Wow!
So the owner of the Goonies' house no longer allows people on the property because of vandalism, theft, and voyeurism. What's wrong with people these days?
We respected the owner's wishes and viewed the house from afar.
The school from Kindergarten Cop
We decided to ride over the bridge into Washington
Ominous clouds
I love this pic
So, overall, I just thought we'd go to Astoria to see the Goonies memorabilia and leave. What I didn't expect...I really loved Astoria. In fact, I want to live there for a while when Deek and I do our vagabond life. Deek agreed, so it's officially on the "vagabond life list." And I know just the neighborhood I'd like to try to find a house in. Seriously, if you get a chance to go to Astoria, do. It's a beautiful, quaint, adorable town!
Big thanks to Deek and his parents for the amazing weekend. We talked and laughed the whole day, and I loved every minute of it. Family...that's what it's all about, folks!
As I said in the last post, Deek and I have less than one month before the BIG move! We're rushing around like chickens with our heads cut off trying to get everything set up in the South and closed down here in the Pacific Northwest. AND we want to be sure we squeeze in some of our "must see" items. Hence, every weekend is now booked with friends, family, and adventure!!
Last weekend, we went to Astoria, Oregon with Deek's parents to see all things Goonies related!! PS. If you're wondering why I'm always wearing a hat lately, there's a reason. I went from purple back to blonde, and it's a hard process on the hair. It's in a "recovery" state for the next three weeks. I'm not allowed to flat iron or blow dry it during that time, and I'm supposed to wear a bun or hat to keep it most protected. ;) The things we do for beauty... LOL!
Anyway, on to Astoria...
The lovely city of Astoria from up high
The view above is from the top of this puppy--The Astoria Column. It's 164 very narrow steps round and round in an itty bitty circle to get to the top. What a good quad workout! ;)
The landing on this thing is TEENY tiny! People are bumping and shoving to get around and see stuff, and you feel like you could be pitched over the side by other people or the wind. A little unnerving to say the least. But worth it for the views!
The house from the movie Short Circuit! Who knew so many films were made in this little town?
Deer, just frolicking in the grass outside the Short Circuit house.
The jailhouse from Goonies, which is now the Oregon Film Museum!
Goin' to jail...Upon entrance to the film museum, you get to have a mug shot taken! We all agreed Deek's dad has THE BEST mugshot. ROFL!
When authors get booked
He's menacing in this one!!
Hahaha!
Deek's mom and me--LOL!
And Deek's dad--BEST shot of the day!!
We made it to the Goondocks!!
Deek and I on the film set.
Deek's parents on the film set. They were laughing so hard they couldn't hardly talk. LOL!
Data's coat!!
Jailbirds (Deek's mom trips me out peeking in from the back!
This made me laugh out loud. LOVE IT!
Flavel house. WOW!
I went to find the bathrooms, found this heart stone, and texted it to my love, Deek! <3
Inside the Flavel house. Doesn't he look distinguished?
Astoria Trolley! I was so excited to ride this thing. It had THE coolest seats ever!
This sign trips me out!
Deek's parents on the trolley
The boardwalk where they filmed some scenes from Free Willy!
The Astoria bridge!PS. If you're wondering why the posts are still in the water, here's the answer. Whoever had a claim on the docks that used to be there retains the right as long as the stumps are in the water. If they're pulled up, that section of water become property of the city.
The Red Building. LOL! Clever naming... ;)
The only bit of sandy beach in all of Astoria
We ate a restaurant that has a Plexiglass floor which allows you to see the sea lions hanging out on the docks below!
Amazing buildings!
Wow!
So the owner of the Goonies' house no longer allows people on the property because of vandalism, theft, and voyeurism. What's wrong with people these days?
We respected the owner's wishes and viewed the house from afar.
The school from Kindergarten Cop
We decided to ride over the bridge into Washington
Ominous clouds
I love this picSo, overall, I just thought we'd go to Astoria to see the Goonies memorabilia and leave. What I didn't expect...I really loved Astoria. In fact, I want to live there for a while when Deek and I do our vagabond life. Deek agreed, so it's officially on the "vagabond life list." And I know just the neighborhood I'd like to try to find a house in. Seriously, if you get a chance to go to Astoria, do. It's a beautiful, quaint, adorable town!
Big thanks to Deek and his parents for the amazing weekend. We talked and laughed the whole day, and I loved every minute of it. Family...that's what it's all about, folks!
May 31, 2016
Adventuring With The Rhews!
Deek and I have less than one month before the BIG move! We're rushing around like chickens with our heads cut off trying to get everything set up in the South and closed down here in the Pacific Northwest. AND we want to be sure we squeeze in some of our "must see" items. Hence, every weekend is now booked with friends, family, and adventure!!
Two weekends ago....
Deek has been to the Redwoods, but only in passing, and he always wanted to get out and actually explore them. I've always heard of the Redwoods but never been, and thus we elected to put the Redwoods on our "must see" list! We took Highway 101 along the coast for our trip to see more of the Pacific Northwest's gorgeous shoreline along the way. Join us for some amazing scenery!
Coffee and kisses to start the journey
Stopping to walk along the boardwalk and stretch our legs
There was this huge sign pained on the street that said "Ocean View." We decided we HAD to check it out and see if it actually warranted paint on the ground.It did!
WOW!
More smooches
We came to a whole other state to eat...fajitas. LOL!
We made it!
The HUGE Paul Bunyan
Got our stamps to visit the Trees of Mystery
We found a tree named after our cat!! She's famous!
View from the gondola! We're riding up into the trees!
You can see the ocean from up here!
Hanging out amidst the trees...
More kisses on the ride back down, with the ocean and trees as a backdrop...how romantic!
I see the theme...kissing at the cathedral tree where they hold weddings! How cool would that be?? Maybe we need to get married a third time, Deek?? ;)
The trees have tenacity! Woot! We can respect that and represent!
More kissing by the "I Love You" rock! <3
Then, we headed south to do the Tour Thru Tree! Don't call it the Drive Thru Tree because that's copyrighted by another tree in California!
Following the advice of some locals, we drove to a nearby state park for some Redwoods hiking. And we elected to do the South Fork Trail (hello, Dallas!). But...we didn't check the hiking guide until AFTER we finished the 7 mile round trip. Turns out, this one is labeled "strenuous." Haha! No joke!
Over trees, under trees...this was more of an obstacle course than a hike! LOL!
We are INSIDE this tree!
Deek's arm span is 69" (yes, we measured). When we go to the zoo, his arms are almost the length of a condor's wingspan. So, you can imagine just how big the base of this tree is!
Just some out-of-this-world views!
Since wandering around in the Redwoods for 7 miles on a strenuous hike wasn't enough, we decided to take a mile-long high to a beach known as "Hidden Beach." Here's a bridge to get there. Just stunning!
Breathtaking views!
Etched our names on the remains of some old lava!
On the way back home, we stopped by a restaurant Deek's been eating at since he was a little boy. It may be our last time eating there, so we wanted to take the opportunity.
Wow, this post turned out to be longer than I thought, so I'll write a separate one about our next adventure...Astoria (aka: the Goondocks!).
Thanks for taking a walk through the Redwoods with us! Next time, we'll show you around the Goonies hangout. "Goonies Never Say Die."
Regardless of where we go or what we do, I'm always thankful to be with Deek. We can be adventuring to the top of the Redwood trees in a gondola or watching a movie while eating pizza in bed. It doesn't matter so much what we do, as long as we do it together. I love you, my Deek. #Always
Two weekends ago....
Deek has been to the Redwoods, but only in passing, and he always wanted to get out and actually explore them. I've always heard of the Redwoods but never been, and thus we elected to put the Redwoods on our "must see" list! We took Highway 101 along the coast for our trip to see more of the Pacific Northwest's gorgeous shoreline along the way. Join us for some amazing scenery!
Coffee and kisses to start the journey
Stopping to walk along the boardwalk and stretch our legs
There was this huge sign pained on the street that said "Ocean View." We decided we HAD to check it out and see if it actually warranted paint on the ground.It did!
WOW!
More smooches
We came to a whole other state to eat...fajitas. LOL!
We made it!
The HUGE Paul Bunyan
Got our stamps to visit the Trees of Mystery
We found a tree named after our cat!! She's famous!
View from the gondola! We're riding up into the trees!
You can see the ocean from up here!
Hanging out amidst the trees...
More kisses on the ride back down, with the ocean and trees as a backdrop...how romantic!
I see the theme...kissing at the cathedral tree where they hold weddings! How cool would that be?? Maybe we need to get married a third time, Deek?? ;)
The trees have tenacity! Woot! We can respect that and represent!
More kissing by the "I Love You" rock! <3
Then, we headed south to do the Tour Thru Tree! Don't call it the Drive Thru Tree because that's copyrighted by another tree in California!
Following the advice of some locals, we drove to a nearby state park for some Redwoods hiking. And we elected to do the South Fork Trail (hello, Dallas!). But...we didn't check the hiking guide until AFTER we finished the 7 mile round trip. Turns out, this one is labeled "strenuous." Haha! No joke!
Over trees, under trees...this was more of an obstacle course than a hike! LOL!
We are INSIDE this tree!
Deek's arm span is 69" (yes, we measured). When we go to the zoo, his arms are almost the length of a condor's wingspan. So, you can imagine just how big the base of this tree is!
Just some out-of-this-world views!
Since wandering around in the Redwoods for 7 miles on a strenuous hike wasn't enough, we decided to take a mile-long high to a beach known as "Hidden Beach." Here's a bridge to get there. Just stunning!
Breathtaking views!
Etched our names on the remains of some old lava!
On the way back home, we stopped by a restaurant Deek's been eating at since he was a little boy. It may be our last time eating there, so we wanted to take the opportunity.Wow, this post turned out to be longer than I thought, so I'll write a separate one about our next adventure...Astoria (aka: the Goondocks!).
Thanks for taking a walk through the Redwoods with us! Next time, we'll show you around the Goonies hangout. "Goonies Never Say Die."
Regardless of where we go or what we do, I'm always thankful to be with Deek. We can be adventuring to the top of the Redwood trees in a gondola or watching a movie while eating pizza in bed. It doesn't matter so much what we do, as long as we do it together. I love you, my Deek. #Always
