Laura Chapman's Blog, page 6
June 1, 2018
my take on the royal wedding cake
Blogger's Note: After months and months of lackluster to dismal writing, I needed to shake-up my non-routine. So I'm challenging myself to write and share a new blog post every day in June in hopes it will reinvigorate my writing process. Posts will vary in content, theme and length. The point is to write every day! You can read the story behind #junewriter here.
I sure hope you don't have Royal Wedding fatigue. If you do, I only have myself to blame for taking this long to share the story and recipe with you. (My bad.) But when you take a culinary risk, and it doesn't end up sucking, well, you want to tell the world. Right?
In the week leading up to the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, a lot of people were obsessed with finding out the details of the ceremony. What dress would Meaghan wear? Who would walk her down the aisle? How would the couple pay tribute to Harry's mum? Not me. (Okay, kind of not me.) While I was intrigued by the details, what most fascinated me was the cake.
It started, as most great things do, on a whim and a Google search.
With a full guest list of friends coming over to watch the nuptials, I was in full party planning mode one week before the wedding. I'd ordered decorations, planned activities (including a build-your-own fascinator station) and created a menu. It was during that last step I punched in a random Google search: "royal wedding cake". As a minor Anglophile, I was familiar enough with British customs to expect a series of fruit cakes to populate my search results. While we in the U.S. have dabbled in cupcake towers, dessert tables, and so on for our weddings, the Brits have stayed pretty true during the past few centuries. Queen Victoria's cake weighed 300 pounds. (And a slice of it sold at auction for way more than I'd pay for 120-year-old cake.) Queen Elizabeth's topped out at 9 feet. Wills and Kate shook things up by having a chocolate cookie groom's cake. I fully expected to hear rumors about what boozy fruits would be used. I half-heartedly contemplated the notion of making my first and last fruit cake.
I was naturally stunned to stumble across a series of articles announcing that an American-born London baker would be creating a lemon elderflower cake with Swiss merengue buttercream frosting for the big day. I promptly did another search, "lemon elderflower cake", and read through dozens of articles and recipes speculating on this untraditional royal wedding cake. By the time I ended my hour-long research rabbit hole, one thing was quite certain. I was going to try to make the bloody cake for the watch party.
Going through the research again, I made notes. I saved the recipes that came from British sources and read up on Claire Ptak's style. After spending the next several days stalking the baker's Instagram account, I felt fairly confident in my approach.
Here's what I believed in my heart:
The cake would use primarily fresh, locally sourced ingredients.The buttercream frosting and decor would be more rustic than perfect in style.Each layer would be tall, consisting of four thinner layers with frosting between each.The cake would be simpler than we imagined: more like a pound cake than anything else.I needed to make a trip to World Market to buy the cordial, and while I was there, I might as well treat myself to some Hob Nobs and other treats.
I bought the ingredients I figured I would need and said a little prayer all would go well.
Thursday night, I greased two tall (3-inch) 6-inch pans, pre-heated my oven to 350 degrees, pulled out the ingredients and went to work.
I have the recipe below, but I'll admit, this wasn't super easy. While the cake was simple enough to assemble, it played mind games with me. I was terrified with how spongey it came out of the oven. (Don't worry about this: It's actually delicious.) I'm also super thrilled I froze the cake layers between decorating, because I have not doubt I would have biffed the frosting process.
Speaking of the frosting . . .
It was hell. And I'll admit to all of you, I never totally got the butter blended. I should have ran the mixer for a few more minutes, but by this point I could practically feel sugar and butter oozing out of my pores, and I gave myself a D for "done." I left mine with what I dubbed "butter pockets." (People love butter, so maybe I'm actually a brilliant genius.) So yes, my giant vat of frosting was lumpy, but at a certain point I had to move on with my life and wash my face and brush my teeth.
You may notice my cake has white chocolate flakes on it. They were supposed to be curls, because I'd read the cake might have white chocolate curls on the sides. It didn't. And unless you're better at making chocolate curls than I am, I definitely say you should skip this step. (Seriously. The YouTube videos I watched made it look so easy, but this was the part that nearly broke me.)
When the cake was frosted and decorated--and I'd sampled a bit of the cake and frosting to know it wouldn't kill anyone--I was ready to place my cake in the fridge overnight. I picked up the freshly frosted cake and promptly dropped it. I made a lucky, and dramatic catch, halfway to the floor. In that moment I knew--even after all the hours of researching and agonizing and baking and decorating and fighting back tears--if the cake had hit the floor, I would have dumped it in the trash can and said, "Well, I guess this was cursed. C'est la vie."
It is the most zen I have ever been, and will likely ever be, about anything in my life.
Thank goodness I didn't drop it, though, because the cake was delicious. Not only did I enjoy it, but my friends said they did too. Granted, I have lovely friends. They could have been appeasing me knowing full-well I might go off the deep end if they said it sucked.
But there you have it. After Harry and Meghan kissed outside of the church and took a carriage ride around Windsor, I served up slices of lemon elderflower cake to my guests. I never actually cried and nobody had food poisoning. We can go ahead put this one in the "success" column.
Read on for the recipe.
Lemon Elderflower CakeServes 12
Ingredients
For cake
8 ounces butter
8 ounces sugar (caster if you're in England, but I used granulated)
4 large eggs
8 ounces self-rising flour
1 lemon (zest and juice)
4 fluid ounces of lemon elderflower cordial
For frosting
3/4 cup egg whites (I used egg beaters)
6 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
24 ounces butter
1 tablespoon vanilla
1 tablespoon lemon elderflower cordial
Directions
Combine room temperature butter, sugar and lemon zest in a large mixing bowl. Mix until it is creamy and smooth. Add one egg at a time. (Tip: Add 2 tablespoons of sifted self-rising flour before adding the final egg to prevent curdling.) Sift the remaining flour into a bowl, folding it into the mixture. Add half the lemon juice into the batter, mixing slowly.
Pour half the batter into each pan and place in oven. Bake for 45 minutes and check doneness. Add an additional 5 to 10 minutes depending on how your oven works.
Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Remove from pans. Slice each layer in half when able. Poke holes in top of layer with fork. Mix remaining lemon juice with the elderflower cordial. Brush the juice over each layer. Wrap in parchment paper, place in freezer safe bags, and store in freezer overnight.
The next day, in a large bowl combine the egg whites, powdered sugar and salt in a bowl. Mix at low speed until everything is blended. Then, turn speed up to medium for 5-6 minutes. After the frosting begins to make peaks, add room temperature butter a couple of tablespoons at a time. Then add the vanilla and lemon elderflower cordial. Once everything is blended, turn the mixer to medium and beat for about 10 minutes. Store in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes.
Remove the cake from the freezer. Create a bottom layer of cake topped with a generous layer of frosting. Repeat three more times. Once all four layers are placed, use remaining buttercream for the sides. To be truly authentic for the wedding, use a flat, wide spatula and leave it textured rather than perfectly smooth.
Top with fresh flowers, fruit or whatever floats your boat.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
I sure hope you don't have Royal Wedding fatigue. If you do, I only have myself to blame for taking this long to share the story and recipe with you. (My bad.) But when you take a culinary risk, and it doesn't end up sucking, well, you want to tell the world. Right?
In the week leading up to the wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, a lot of people were obsessed with finding out the details of the ceremony. What dress would Meaghan wear? Who would walk her down the aisle? How would the couple pay tribute to Harry's mum? Not me. (Okay, kind of not me.) While I was intrigued by the details, what most fascinated me was the cake.
It started, as most great things do, on a whim and a Google search.
With a full guest list of friends coming over to watch the nuptials, I was in full party planning mode one week before the wedding. I'd ordered decorations, planned activities (including a build-your-own fascinator station) and created a menu. It was during that last step I punched in a random Google search: "royal wedding cake". As a minor Anglophile, I was familiar enough with British customs to expect a series of fruit cakes to populate my search results. While we in the U.S. have dabbled in cupcake towers, dessert tables, and so on for our weddings, the Brits have stayed pretty true during the past few centuries. Queen Victoria's cake weighed 300 pounds. (And a slice of it sold at auction for way more than I'd pay for 120-year-old cake.) Queen Elizabeth's topped out at 9 feet. Wills and Kate shook things up by having a chocolate cookie groom's cake. I fully expected to hear rumors about what boozy fruits would be used. I half-heartedly contemplated the notion of making my first and last fruit cake.
I was naturally stunned to stumble across a series of articles announcing that an American-born London baker would be creating a lemon elderflower cake with Swiss merengue buttercream frosting for the big day. I promptly did another search, "lemon elderflower cake", and read through dozens of articles and recipes speculating on this untraditional royal wedding cake. By the time I ended my hour-long research rabbit hole, one thing was quite certain. I was going to try to make the bloody cake for the watch party.
Going through the research again, I made notes. I saved the recipes that came from British sources and read up on Claire Ptak's style. After spending the next several days stalking the baker's Instagram account, I felt fairly confident in my approach.
Here's what I believed in my heart:
The cake would use primarily fresh, locally sourced ingredients.The buttercream frosting and decor would be more rustic than perfect in style.Each layer would be tall, consisting of four thinner layers with frosting between each.The cake would be simpler than we imagined: more like a pound cake than anything else.I needed to make a trip to World Market to buy the cordial, and while I was there, I might as well treat myself to some Hob Nobs and other treats.
I bought the ingredients I figured I would need and said a little prayer all would go well.
Thursday night, I greased two tall (3-inch) 6-inch pans, pre-heated my oven to 350 degrees, pulled out the ingredients and went to work.
I have the recipe below, but I'll admit, this wasn't super easy. While the cake was simple enough to assemble, it played mind games with me. I was terrified with how spongey it came out of the oven. (Don't worry about this: It's actually delicious.) I'm also super thrilled I froze the cake layers between decorating, because I have not doubt I would have biffed the frosting process.
Speaking of the frosting . . .
It was hell. And I'll admit to all of you, I never totally got the butter blended. I should have ran the mixer for a few more minutes, but by this point I could practically feel sugar and butter oozing out of my pores, and I gave myself a D for "done." I left mine with what I dubbed "butter pockets." (People love butter, so maybe I'm actually a brilliant genius.) So yes, my giant vat of frosting was lumpy, but at a certain point I had to move on with my life and wash my face and brush my teeth.
You may notice my cake has white chocolate flakes on it. They were supposed to be curls, because I'd read the cake might have white chocolate curls on the sides. It didn't. And unless you're better at making chocolate curls than I am, I definitely say you should skip this step. (Seriously. The YouTube videos I watched made it look so easy, but this was the part that nearly broke me.)
When the cake was frosted and decorated--and I'd sampled a bit of the cake and frosting to know it wouldn't kill anyone--I was ready to place my cake in the fridge overnight. I picked up the freshly frosted cake and promptly dropped it. I made a lucky, and dramatic catch, halfway to the floor. In that moment I knew--even after all the hours of researching and agonizing and baking and decorating and fighting back tears--if the cake had hit the floor, I would have dumped it in the trash can and said, "Well, I guess this was cursed. C'est la vie."
It is the most zen I have ever been, and will likely ever be, about anything in my life.
Thank goodness I didn't drop it, though, because the cake was delicious. Not only did I enjoy it, but my friends said they did too. Granted, I have lovely friends. They could have been appeasing me knowing full-well I might go off the deep end if they said it sucked.
But there you have it. After Harry and Meghan kissed outside of the church and took a carriage ride around Windsor, I served up slices of lemon elderflower cake to my guests. I never actually cried and nobody had food poisoning. We can go ahead put this one in the "success" column.
Read on for the recipe.
Lemon Elderflower CakeServes 12
Ingredients
For cake
8 ounces butter
8 ounces sugar (caster if you're in England, but I used granulated)
4 large eggs
8 ounces self-rising flour
1 lemon (zest and juice)
4 fluid ounces of lemon elderflower cordial
For frosting
3/4 cup egg whites (I used egg beaters)
6 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
24 ounces butter
1 tablespoon vanilla
1 tablespoon lemon elderflower cordial
Directions
Combine room temperature butter, sugar and lemon zest in a large mixing bowl. Mix until it is creamy and smooth. Add one egg at a time. (Tip: Add 2 tablespoons of sifted self-rising flour before adding the final egg to prevent curdling.) Sift the remaining flour into a bowl, folding it into the mixture. Add half the lemon juice into the batter, mixing slowly.
Pour half the batter into each pan and place in oven. Bake for 45 minutes and check doneness. Add an additional 5 to 10 minutes depending on how your oven works.
Remove from oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Remove from pans. Slice each layer in half when able. Poke holes in top of layer with fork. Mix remaining lemon juice with the elderflower cordial. Brush the juice over each layer. Wrap in parchment paper, place in freezer safe bags, and store in freezer overnight.
The next day, in a large bowl combine the egg whites, powdered sugar and salt in a bowl. Mix at low speed until everything is blended. Then, turn speed up to medium for 5-6 minutes. After the frosting begins to make peaks, add room temperature butter a couple of tablespoons at a time. Then add the vanilla and lemon elderflower cordial. Once everything is blended, turn the mixer to medium and beat for about 10 minutes. Store in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes.
Remove the cake from the freezer. Create a bottom layer of cake topped with a generous layer of frosting. Repeat three more times. Once all four layers are placed, use remaining buttercream for the sides. To be truly authentic for the wedding, use a flat, wide spatula and leave it textured rather than perfectly smooth.
Top with fresh flowers, fruit or whatever floats your boat.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
May 31, 2018
it's time to get my act together
I have a problem.
I've tiptoed around this subject in newsletters, on social media, and even here for (at least) the past year. But today, I'm going to spell it out explicitly, so there's no doubt.
I'm in trouble with my writing career.
This isn't specifically about the industry, sales, reviews, or marketing. (Though, in fairness, those are contributing factors.) No, my biggest problem is that I'm not writing. Sometimes it's just not writing consistently. Other times, it's plain not writing at all. I've spent a considerable amount of time trying to figure out the source.
Am I too busy? That's kind of a BS explanation. Everyone is busy. I've always had a lot to do. But when I had something to write, I wrote.
So is that the problem then? Do I not have anything to write? The ideas constantly churning and swirling around and around in my head would beg to differ. I have tons of ideas. More ideas every day. All of them want to be told.
Do I have the writer's version of stage fright?
Do I just suck as a writer?
Do people hate my writing? And maybe me?
Do I hate my writing and myself?
On and on. And I'll be honest, it's maybe a little of all those reasons and more. But after spending so much time trying to pinpoint why I'm not writing, I've decided I've wasted enough time thinking about it. I'm sure the causes are all valid and worthy of consideration, but they pale after I came to this conclusion: I want to keep writing. To hell with fears, inhibitions, sales, edits, etc. etc. When it's all said and done, whether I (or anyone) want them, I have stories I want to tell and I want to be the one to keep telling them. At least for now. And as long as that's true, then I should do something about it.
Upon coming to this consensus, I realized I should probably do something about the not writing. It's not as simple as telling myself to sit down and write my book every day. I try that, and it doesn't work. So I really sat and considered when I was happiest as a writer, and I realized it was at the beginning of this journey. Years ago. When I made myself write a blog post just about every week day for a year, because I wanted to train myself to be a writer. And when I finished writing my blog posts, I found myself wanting to work on my stories too. While I didn't love every minute of it, the process made me happy.
That's when the idea popped into my head.
In an effort to duplicate those conditions (or to at least see if it'll jog some repressed memory of enjoying the ride) I've decided to write one blog post every day for the month of June. Just to see how it goes. Maybe some will be short and others long. Maybe it'll help with the writing. Maybe some of the posts will be good. Maybe I'll end up sharing a bunch of pictures of my cast. Maybe I'll write crap for thirty days in a row. (If so, this is my "sorry" in advance.) Maybe I'll realize I really do hate writing and I have nothing else to say. I hope that doesn't happen, but if it does, at least I know.
Whatever happens, I feel like I have to do this. If only to prove to myself that I can set a goal and fulfill it.
The rules are simple: One new blog post every day. It can be about anything. It just has to be new words I've written. I might write what's on my heart or mind. I might end up Googling "blog post ideas." (Hey, if you have any ideas you'd like to submit, please give me a shout on Twitter @lchapmanbooks.) I wanted to come up with some sort of cute name for this, but the best I could come up with is #junewriter. So, welcome to the #junewriter series, beginning tomorrow.
Thanks in advance for indulging me on this journey. Wish me luck.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
May 27, 2018
the post where i get honest about fear
Blogger's Note: I wrote this post a couple weeks ago. I wrote it for myself. I wasn't sure if I could, would, or should share it. But alas, as I explain later, I decided the brave (or maybe just self-indulgent) thing to do would be to hit "publish." Here we go . . .
Everyone keeps asking me about France. It's only natural to ask someone about a trip abroad in the first weeks after their return. "It looks like you had fun," they say, probably because they've seen the smattering of photos I've shared on Facebook and Instagram. They ask me what I did, what I ate, what it was like.
I'm quick to give my answer, the same almost rehearsed piece of dialogue. "It was a lot of fun. It was very busy and full. But it was fun. I'm so lucky I had time to explore." Then I might share an anecdote about finding the macarons Rick Steves wrote about in the backpacking travel guide I bought in 2012. When I still thought I might one day take off for eight weeks to see Europe with little more than a few pairs of jeans and T-shirts. Or I'll tell them how I was stung by a bee on my cheek for the first time ever. How I was trying to find the closest metro station to Place de la Concorde even while I worried I might discover a deadly allergy to bees. Or about being among the first people in the room to see the Mona Lisa after the Louvre opened on a Monday morning.
On and on.
I don't give these canned answers because I'm insincere. My trip was fun. Between balancing my work schedule and the long list of touristy to-do items in a limited amount of time, it was busy and full. I do feel lucky. Truly I do. I have new memories to cherish. Memories I'm grateful to have and wouldn't replace.
But I haven't told many the full truth. About how I really felt while I was in a place I've always wanted to visit.
I don't tell them I was scared. Terrified. The whole time. Not about the protests or strikes I knew to expect. Not even the possibility of a terrorist attack. I don't let myself be afraid of that. Refuse it. No, I was scared of the one, small part of my trip that came at the end. I was scared of climbing aboard subways and trains before dawn and traveling across a city I don't know, and where I don't speak the language, clad with multiple bags of luggage. Alone for the first time on this trip.
I'll be a sitting target, I thought to myself. I'll stick out as a woman traveling alone. More because I'll have suitcases and a purse that will undoubtedly carry my credit cards and American passport. People get mugged. Women get abducted. And worse. I've heard the stories. Unlike any apprehension about terrorism, I'm unable to steel myself against the fear. To tell myself it will be okay. From a week before I left for France, and until the moment I made it to the airport to return home, I was scared I'd let down my guard and become a victim. I covered for this by telling people I was afraid to miss my flight home, because it would suck, but really the fear was more raw and struck me at my core.
When it was over, it hadn't been so bad. It took me a few more days to think it had been silly of me to worry. It took another week still of off-and-on reflection to realize that it was sad, even. For a couple of reasons. It's sad because I let fear be my constant companion and taint what was truly a wonderful opportunity. And sad because, in reality, it's a fear so many of us live with, because the world we live in can be hard and cruel.
I talked about this a little with my parents. My mother nodded knowingly. She understood. My father launched into a few stories about his own European adventures and how he'd spent them alone. It was in the middle of this I interrupted and told him it wasn't a fear of being alone. It was a fear of feeling weak and like a target. It's the same fear I feel walking to my car late at night. While going on a bike trail. Or the when I hear fluttering in the attic, and it takes me a few moments to remember it's probably a mouse or a squirrel. As much as I've come to appreciate my alone time, it also becomes what I'm most afraid of when things go bump in the night.
No matter how much I rationalize the odds or tell myself it will be okay, I can't shake the fear. Even in my twenties, when I traveled for work alone, I was scared. I was probably better at managing it then. That's not true. I might walk into a motel room that didn't feel great. I'd push a chair against the door and set my alarm for an earlier hour so I'd spend as little time there as possible. But perhaps the fear didn't feel so strong, because it was so constant and I was in better practice of how to deal with it.
And it's a shame. It's a shame we teach our daughters and sisters and friends how to carry their car keys in a defensive manner. It's a shame we have to talk about carrying ourselves with a certain air. It's a shame our world isn't kinder. It's a shame fear plays such a strong role in so much of our society. Because we're all afraid of something. Of someone. I wonder if there will ever come a time when that isn't true. A utopia of sorts.
During all this contemplation, I reached for The Handmaid's Tale.
My copy of Margaret Atwood's book has moved with me to the dorms, my first apartment, my last apartment, and everywhere in between. I had to read it for AP English my senior year of high school. At the time it was one of only two required books I'd had in high school written by a woman. Already a self-described feminist, my seventeen-year-old self clung to the book and immediately named it my all-time favorite required read. I felt terribly mature and wise reading the book, picking up on the allegories and symbolism. When I read it again in college, I still carried that same air, seemingly telling people that I was "woke" before it was cool. I've always been a little pretentious like that.
I meant to read the book a few years ago. When I turned twenty-nine, I set a goal of re-reading my thirty all-time favorite books before I turned thirty. I didn't make it very far down the list, and I abandoned the idea a few months into the year. I decided to try again the year I turned thirty, but again, the plan never came to fruition. In fall 2016, when I heard about the Hulu series, I told myself I'd re-read it again, for certain this time. I always try to re-read a book before I watch a film or TV adaptation. But then I couldn't bring myself to do it or to watch the show. It's amazing, I've heard. The critics and awards love it. Still I didn't watch. I was too raw or fragile to open myself to a dystopian story that had opened my eyes when I was still basically a child.
Whatever the reason--the constant advertisements or a basic need to feel brave--I grabbed the book. I only meant to re-read a scene that had popped into my head. I wondered if I remembered it correctly. One scene turned into two, then into three. Before long, I was back to page one and reading every word, sometimes several times. In some ways, it was like reconnecting with an old friend--or mentor perhaps. Yet it was like reading it for the first time. I suppose it was a first reading of sorts. The first time reading it as a woman who has lived more of life. I was halfway through the book before I realized I'm now the same age as the heroine. The full weight of that reality rocked me. As a teenager, the idea seemed so distant. This happened in another time to people much older than me. But this time, I was reading the horror story of someone who'd lived as long as I had. That connection somehow made it seem more real.
I saw the story differently. I didn't just read the book and contemplate the horror of the society. For the first time, I read the book more in Offred's shoes, understanding the fear mingled with bouts of resignation. I don't know if I truly understood fear or apathy back in my teens as I do now.
I still don't understand how a lot of life works. The older I get, the more I realize I don't know. Will never know. That's so different than it was when I was a punk seventeen-year-old who thought she knew everything, or would soon.
That's possibly the heart of it; the fear. The knowing I'll never know or understand everything completely. That no one will. That we'll never be able to truly predict an outcome for ourselves or our world at home. It's disappointing. It's terrifying.
Yet we have to push on. Don't we? Isn't that the meaning behind stiff upper lip and playing hurt? If we don't move forward, we get stuck. I find myself getting stuck a lot. Whether it's with writing, working, or living. I get scared, and it paralyzes me. It keeps me from moving on.
That's why I'm writing this post, I think. Like somehow acknowledging my fear, and that it may be my constant companion forever, will make it easier to keep going. Maybe someone will read this and acknowledge she's fearful of the unknown and the imagined too. It might make us feel less alone. Because we're not alone. Not in our fear and not in our world. We can only do our best to not let that fear completely take over. To let it guide us for worse. Some fear might be good, even. It's a fear of pain that keeps us from touching stoves or running with scissors. But that's little fear, Manageable. It's okay as as it doesn't become our master; as long as it doesn't keep us from living.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
Everyone keeps asking me about France. It's only natural to ask someone about a trip abroad in the first weeks after their return. "It looks like you had fun," they say, probably because they've seen the smattering of photos I've shared on Facebook and Instagram. They ask me what I did, what I ate, what it was like.
I'm quick to give my answer, the same almost rehearsed piece of dialogue. "It was a lot of fun. It was very busy and full. But it was fun. I'm so lucky I had time to explore." Then I might share an anecdote about finding the macarons Rick Steves wrote about in the backpacking travel guide I bought in 2012. When I still thought I might one day take off for eight weeks to see Europe with little more than a few pairs of jeans and T-shirts. Or I'll tell them how I was stung by a bee on my cheek for the first time ever. How I was trying to find the closest metro station to Place de la Concorde even while I worried I might discover a deadly allergy to bees. Or about being among the first people in the room to see the Mona Lisa after the Louvre opened on a Monday morning.
On and on.
I don't give these canned answers because I'm insincere. My trip was fun. Between balancing my work schedule and the long list of touristy to-do items in a limited amount of time, it was busy and full. I do feel lucky. Truly I do. I have new memories to cherish. Memories I'm grateful to have and wouldn't replace.
But I haven't told many the full truth. About how I really felt while I was in a place I've always wanted to visit.
I don't tell them I was scared. Terrified. The whole time. Not about the protests or strikes I knew to expect. Not even the possibility of a terrorist attack. I don't let myself be afraid of that. Refuse it. No, I was scared of the one, small part of my trip that came at the end. I was scared of climbing aboard subways and trains before dawn and traveling across a city I don't know, and where I don't speak the language, clad with multiple bags of luggage. Alone for the first time on this trip.
I'll be a sitting target, I thought to myself. I'll stick out as a woman traveling alone. More because I'll have suitcases and a purse that will undoubtedly carry my credit cards and American passport. People get mugged. Women get abducted. And worse. I've heard the stories. Unlike any apprehension about terrorism, I'm unable to steel myself against the fear. To tell myself it will be okay. From a week before I left for France, and until the moment I made it to the airport to return home, I was scared I'd let down my guard and become a victim. I covered for this by telling people I was afraid to miss my flight home, because it would suck, but really the fear was more raw and struck me at my core.
When it was over, it hadn't been so bad. It took me a few more days to think it had been silly of me to worry. It took another week still of off-and-on reflection to realize that it was sad, even. For a couple of reasons. It's sad because I let fear be my constant companion and taint what was truly a wonderful opportunity. And sad because, in reality, it's a fear so many of us live with, because the world we live in can be hard and cruel.
I talked about this a little with my parents. My mother nodded knowingly. She understood. My father launched into a few stories about his own European adventures and how he'd spent them alone. It was in the middle of this I interrupted and told him it wasn't a fear of being alone. It was a fear of feeling weak and like a target. It's the same fear I feel walking to my car late at night. While going on a bike trail. Or the when I hear fluttering in the attic, and it takes me a few moments to remember it's probably a mouse or a squirrel. As much as I've come to appreciate my alone time, it also becomes what I'm most afraid of when things go bump in the night.
No matter how much I rationalize the odds or tell myself it will be okay, I can't shake the fear. Even in my twenties, when I traveled for work alone, I was scared. I was probably better at managing it then. That's not true. I might walk into a motel room that didn't feel great. I'd push a chair against the door and set my alarm for an earlier hour so I'd spend as little time there as possible. But perhaps the fear didn't feel so strong, because it was so constant and I was in better practice of how to deal with it.
And it's a shame. It's a shame we teach our daughters and sisters and friends how to carry their car keys in a defensive manner. It's a shame we have to talk about carrying ourselves with a certain air. It's a shame our world isn't kinder. It's a shame fear plays such a strong role in so much of our society. Because we're all afraid of something. Of someone. I wonder if there will ever come a time when that isn't true. A utopia of sorts.
During all this contemplation, I reached for The Handmaid's Tale.
My copy of Margaret Atwood's book has moved with me to the dorms, my first apartment, my last apartment, and everywhere in between. I had to read it for AP English my senior year of high school. At the time it was one of only two required books I'd had in high school written by a woman. Already a self-described feminist, my seventeen-year-old self clung to the book and immediately named it my all-time favorite required read. I felt terribly mature and wise reading the book, picking up on the allegories and symbolism. When I read it again in college, I still carried that same air, seemingly telling people that I was "woke" before it was cool. I've always been a little pretentious like that.
I meant to read the book a few years ago. When I turned twenty-nine, I set a goal of re-reading my thirty all-time favorite books before I turned thirty. I didn't make it very far down the list, and I abandoned the idea a few months into the year. I decided to try again the year I turned thirty, but again, the plan never came to fruition. In fall 2016, when I heard about the Hulu series, I told myself I'd re-read it again, for certain this time. I always try to re-read a book before I watch a film or TV adaptation. But then I couldn't bring myself to do it or to watch the show. It's amazing, I've heard. The critics and awards love it. Still I didn't watch. I was too raw or fragile to open myself to a dystopian story that had opened my eyes when I was still basically a child.
Whatever the reason--the constant advertisements or a basic need to feel brave--I grabbed the book. I only meant to re-read a scene that had popped into my head. I wondered if I remembered it correctly. One scene turned into two, then into three. Before long, I was back to page one and reading every word, sometimes several times. In some ways, it was like reconnecting with an old friend--or mentor perhaps. Yet it was like reading it for the first time. I suppose it was a first reading of sorts. The first time reading it as a woman who has lived more of life. I was halfway through the book before I realized I'm now the same age as the heroine. The full weight of that reality rocked me. As a teenager, the idea seemed so distant. This happened in another time to people much older than me. But this time, I was reading the horror story of someone who'd lived as long as I had. That connection somehow made it seem more real.
I saw the story differently. I didn't just read the book and contemplate the horror of the society. For the first time, I read the book more in Offred's shoes, understanding the fear mingled with bouts of resignation. I don't know if I truly understood fear or apathy back in my teens as I do now.
I still don't understand how a lot of life works. The older I get, the more I realize I don't know. Will never know. That's so different than it was when I was a punk seventeen-year-old who thought she knew everything, or would soon.
That's possibly the heart of it; the fear. The knowing I'll never know or understand everything completely. That no one will. That we'll never be able to truly predict an outcome for ourselves or our world at home. It's disappointing. It's terrifying.
Yet we have to push on. Don't we? Isn't that the meaning behind stiff upper lip and playing hurt? If we don't move forward, we get stuck. I find myself getting stuck a lot. Whether it's with writing, working, or living. I get scared, and it paralyzes me. It keeps me from moving on.
That's why I'm writing this post, I think. Like somehow acknowledging my fear, and that it may be my constant companion forever, will make it easier to keep going. Maybe someone will read this and acknowledge she's fearful of the unknown and the imagined too. It might make us feel less alone. Because we're not alone. Not in our fear and not in our world. We can only do our best to not let that fear completely take over. To let it guide us for worse. Some fear might be good, even. It's a fear of pain that keeps us from touching stoves or running with scissors. But that's little fear, Manageable. It's okay as as it doesn't become our master; as long as it doesn't keep us from living.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
May 20, 2018
raining on a parade
I wanted to cry when my alarm went off Saturday morning. It was 4:15. I'd gone to bed little more than two hours earlier. With guests expect to arrive at 5, I had a number of last minute tasks to care for before they arrived. Egg bakes to make and place in the oven. Finger sandwiches to assemble and slice. Scones to place in a basket. Cocktails to pour. Plenty to do, so, sleep had to wait.
Seven years ago, a few of my good friends and I woke up similarly early to watch Prince William marry Kate Middleton. We made complimentary, but still unique, T-shirts. We sipped mimosas and commented on every hat and dress as they appeared on screen. We teared up at touching moments. Sighed during the fairy tale. And we went to work at 8, still buzzed on the spirit of the festivities (and, okay, the mimosas).
With nothing but happy memories from that day, I eagerly looked forward to holding another Royal Wedding watch party when Prince Harry married Meghan Markle. There are few things I love more than a themed party, so coming up with a menu, decor, and activities to commemorate such an occasion is one of my greatest joys. I started planning them all months ago, though I didn't get serious about it until about two weeks ago.
By the time my first guest arrived right on time, my vision had almost completely come to fruition. In the kitchen, I had a table set with Pimm's Cups and mimosas, English Breakfast Egg bakes, fresh scones with clotted cream and preserves, fruit, finger sandwiches, and even my take on the lemon and elderflower wedding cake. In the living room, I had a build-your-own fascinator station, Royal Wedding Bingo, and a ridiculous British photo booth.
Ain't no party like a Laura Chapman party,
'cuz a Laura Chapman party is themed.
My guests arrived. We chatted. We laughed. We teared up. We gossiped. When it was over, even though I was physically tired, my emotional and mental cup ran over. I was happy to have spent a fun morning making memories with my friends. My inner romantic was sighing at watching love declared. (I'm a sap at all weddings.) I was so pleased with how my plans for the party had come together. It's been a crazy few months at work. I've been on an emotional roller coaster of sorts for the better part of a few years. I'm a writer, but I can't find the precise words to explain how nice it was to have a few hours where I wasn't worrying about anything but what hat some stranger was wearing and whether or not anyone would flub their lines. It was fun. It was more than that.
Of course with anything that happens in this world, there were people who didn't care about the wedding. When I logged onto Facebook after my last guests left, a little of the feel-good wind behind my sails was knocked down when I saw a series of posts from people trashing everyone who watched. I hid the comments and kept scrolling, but the sentiments stayed with me.
It didn't bother me that someone else didn't want to watch or read anything about the wedding. That's fine. It's their right not to care. It's their right not to watch. But I wondered why we feel this need to say something rude or snarky about something harmless that brings another person joy. Whether it's about a game, a race, an awards show, or a royal wedding, why do we need to make public declarations to say we don't care? Is it to make ourselves feel better or seem better than other people? Or do we have to make every thought, every emotion known now for the world to hear it?
(I'm doing that now by writing this post.)
I don't really know the answers to those question. They're probably simpler than I'm making it, but maybe they're even more complicated than I can imagine. Thinking about this, though, has made me determined to do better at keeping my thoughts to myself (or to a private chat among friends). Whether or not something is my cup of tea, it might be someone else's. Maybe that person watching a game or show is feeling a little blue and this adds a little light and joy to their life. As much as it's my right not to care, it's their right to enjoy it without having someone diminish or dismiss it in any way.
Life can really suck sometimes. It's also too short. Maybe we should let each other enjoy our little pleasures when we can without raining on anyone's parade. At least that's going to be my goal.
Anyway, cheers to the couple. If you watched, I hope your experience was as enjoyable as mine. If you didn't, I hope you had a lovely Saturday all the same.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
Seven years ago, a few of my good friends and I woke up similarly early to watch Prince William marry Kate Middleton. We made complimentary, but still unique, T-shirts. We sipped mimosas and commented on every hat and dress as they appeared on screen. We teared up at touching moments. Sighed during the fairy tale. And we went to work at 8, still buzzed on the spirit of the festivities (and, okay, the mimosas).
With nothing but happy memories from that day, I eagerly looked forward to holding another Royal Wedding watch party when Prince Harry married Meghan Markle. There are few things I love more than a themed party, so coming up with a menu, decor, and activities to commemorate such an occasion is one of my greatest joys. I started planning them all months ago, though I didn't get serious about it until about two weeks ago.
By the time my first guest arrived right on time, my vision had almost completely come to fruition. In the kitchen, I had a table set with Pimm's Cups and mimosas, English Breakfast Egg bakes, fresh scones with clotted cream and preserves, fruit, finger sandwiches, and even my take on the lemon and elderflower wedding cake. In the living room, I had a build-your-own fascinator station, Royal Wedding Bingo, and a ridiculous British photo booth.
Ain't no party like a Laura Chapman party, 'cuz a Laura Chapman party is themed.
My guests arrived. We chatted. We laughed. We teared up. We gossiped. When it was over, even though I was physically tired, my emotional and mental cup ran over. I was happy to have spent a fun morning making memories with my friends. My inner romantic was sighing at watching love declared. (I'm a sap at all weddings.) I was so pleased with how my plans for the party had come together. It's been a crazy few months at work. I've been on an emotional roller coaster of sorts for the better part of a few years. I'm a writer, but I can't find the precise words to explain how nice it was to have a few hours where I wasn't worrying about anything but what hat some stranger was wearing and whether or not anyone would flub their lines. It was fun. It was more than that.
Of course with anything that happens in this world, there were people who didn't care about the wedding. When I logged onto Facebook after my last guests left, a little of the feel-good wind behind my sails was knocked down when I saw a series of posts from people trashing everyone who watched. I hid the comments and kept scrolling, but the sentiments stayed with me.
It didn't bother me that someone else didn't want to watch or read anything about the wedding. That's fine. It's their right not to care. It's their right not to watch. But I wondered why we feel this need to say something rude or snarky about something harmless that brings another person joy. Whether it's about a game, a race, an awards show, or a royal wedding, why do we need to make public declarations to say we don't care? Is it to make ourselves feel better or seem better than other people? Or do we have to make every thought, every emotion known now for the world to hear it?
(I'm doing that now by writing this post.)
I don't really know the answers to those question. They're probably simpler than I'm making it, but maybe they're even more complicated than I can imagine. Thinking about this, though, has made me determined to do better at keeping my thoughts to myself (or to a private chat among friends). Whether or not something is my cup of tea, it might be someone else's. Maybe that person watching a game or show is feeling a little blue and this adds a little light and joy to their life. As much as it's my right not to care, it's their right to enjoy it without having someone diminish or dismiss it in any way.
Life can really suck sometimes. It's also too short. Maybe we should let each other enjoy our little pleasures when we can without raining on anyone's parade. At least that's going to be my goal.
Anyway, cheers to the couple. If you watched, I hope your experience was as enjoyable as mine. If you didn't, I hope you had a lovely Saturday all the same.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
February 19, 2018
the writers write olympics
Last week I was once again invited to be an author mentor at Writers Write, a morning workshop for local eighth grade students sponsored by the Nebraska Literary Heritage Association. I participated in the program as an eighth grader, and it has been a particular honor to come back as a mentor the past three years.
Like countless others, I have Olympic Winter Games fever.
Lady Jane and I surfing the sofa and cheering on
the women's relay. Like. Bosses.
When I'm not watching the Olympics, I seem to be reading up on them. Even the book I just finished reading centered around the Olympics. When it came time to figure out the focus and theme for my break-out workshop, it hit me like Marai Nagasu landing her triple axel in the short program. I needed to celebrate the Olympics.
It was so. Much. Fun. The students--even the shy ones--seemed to get into the spirit of the whole thing. They broke out into their randomly appointed teams and seemed to create tight-knit units immediately. They brainstormed and shared and wrote some pretty spectacular pieces off the cuff.
I wanted to share the script I created as well as a few pictures from the day. (No photos of the students as I don't have their parents' permission to post them here.) I actually stuck to it pretty faithfully, because I was trying to kick a nasty cold, and it took most of my energy to stay upright and be peppy in intervals. I also had a slide show with gifs and videos, but I'll only include where necessary.
Here it is, the 2018 Writers Write Olympics . . .
[Play Olympics Theme Music]
Welcome to the inaugural Writers Write Olympics, where everyone is a fierce writer and everyone wins. I’m Laura Chapman, your master of ceremonies, coach, and biggest cheerleader. In today’s Olympic games, we’ll discuss what it takes to be a champion writer and chase writing gold for ourselves and our teams. Are you ready, writers?
You can practically see the cold medicine radiating from my pores.
OPENING CEREMONY
Before we begin today’s games, we need to create some teams. Please select a slip of paper from the Olympic Cup and go to the table with that color of folder and star. Go ahead and introduce yourself to your team members. Share your name. Where you go to school. And the best book you’ve read this year.
[Pause for introductions]
Now it’s time to make your team stand out. Go ahead and select a name and write it down on that star. You’ll also need a motto. Write it on the Post-It note on your folder. And take that poster board and make a flag You have five minutes. Before we begin the Parade of Nations, open up your folder and pull out the single sheet of paper with word prompts. Fill those in quickly as a team, selecting nouns, adverbs, adjectives and so on. You’ll need those later.
PARADE OF NATIONS
Let’s meet our Olympic Teams. Bring everyone on up. One of you will be the flag bearer. One of you will share the name and motto.
[TEAMS SHARE]
Thank you all for representing your schools and teams. I officially declare the Writers Write Olympic Games Open. Let the games begin!
TEAM PRELIMS
For our preliminary round, we’re going to do a team writing activity. Before we begin, let’s watch a brief clip from this year’s Olympics.
[PLAY: https://youtu.be/RvEFtNYVQVI]
That’s Mirai Nagasu, a 24-year-old from Team USA. This week she became the first American female figure skater to successfully land a triple axel at the Olympics. She’s only the third woman to do so at the games. Can you imagine what that’s like? With your teams, write what you think was gong through her mind and how she felt during these 30 seconds.
One of the slides I created under the influence of a fever and meds.
Work together to show and tell those thoughts and feelings in a short vignette. You can do this together as a team by discussing. Or you can do it Round Robin style where each team member writes one sentence and passes it on. The choice is yours, but you have five minutes. Are you ready? Begin.
[WRITE]
Please select a member from your team to share what you’ve written.
[TEAMS SHARE]
Well done, teams. You’ve done a great job working together to fulfill your goals. Writing can often be a solitary experience, but it’s good to have a network of friends. They can help you brainstorm. They’ll keep you motivated. And sometimes you can work together to create a project.
INDIVIDUAL COMPETITION
Now it’s time to move on to the next phase of our games, the individual competition. Please open up your folders again and remove the folded sheets of paper. When you sit down to write, you don’t need to have have an outline. But it’s beneficial to have an idea of what you will write about. It helps you be more productive and reduces stress and anxiety. Open your folded sheet of paper and look at your picture. Use it to inspire a scene or poem. You can write about the person or people it in it. Or perhaps you’re writing from the perspective of someone witnessing it. Or maybe it’s the setting or activity. It’s your choice. You’ll have two chunks of time to write. I’m going to set the time for the first one now. I’ll let you know when you have 30 seconds left. Are you ready? Go!
[WRITE]
COMMERCIAL BREAK
That’s time. We’ll get back to our writing, but first we’ll be back after a word from our sponsors. When writing, it’s a good idea to give yourself breaks. Not only is it good for your body and health to move around, but it helps stir the creative choices. Everyone stand up. Go ahead and shake it out a little. Now for our first stretches.
fingers wristsarms (up, across, out) calf raises
Now we’ll march in place, moving our arms like so. Does everyone feel a little more loose?
Great, let’s get back for Round 2. Again, think about what you’re writing. Think about how that person reacts to their setting. What are they feeling? How can you show it? I’ll set the timer again and let you know when we’re up to the final 30 seconds.
[WRITE]
Okay, that’s it for this writing session. How did it feel writing in those two bits of time? Writing in short, timed writes like the ones we just did are called sprints. The idea is to set a timer for anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes and take breaks between. It’s based on a productivity tool called the Pomodoro Technique. Setting out to accomplish a big goal, like writing a story or poem, can be daunting. But when you break it down into smaller chunks like that—and take breaks—it becomes more manageable. Now it’s time to share our work with each other.
Have everyone at your table go around and share your stories with each other. When you’re done, select one person who will share his or her story with the room. Ready? Go.
MEDAL CEREMONY
The "medals" I gave each student after reading. They're the colors of
the teams they'd worked with all morning.
Do we have our three representatives? Let’s go around the room and share.
[Almost everyone ended up sharing, which was awesome.]
Thank you all for representing your teams. Would you each please come up here. In recognition of your bravery and good work, please accept this medal. Please take these others back to your tables and present them to your teammates.
CLOSING CEREMONY
Thank you all for participating in the Writers Write Olympics. I hope you had fun. If you think about it, we writers have a lot in common with Olympic athletes.
For all of us, success begins when we turn our dreams into plans. It’s one thing to say we want to win the half pipe or write a story. It’s another to come up with a way to make it happen. How do we accomplish this as writers? We make outlines, develop characters, and brainstorm.
It also takes hard work and dedication. That means sitting down with a pen and paper or a computer to write. It means making time for it and committing to your words. We have to practice doing that. Like skiing down hill or skating at high speed, writing takes muscles. To get your muscles in top shape, you have to do it often and practice, practice, practice.
It can be scary to create a story or a poem then to turn around and share it with others. Just like it must be nerve-wracking to skate a routine on ice in front of fans around the world. It’s okay to be afraid. That doesn’t make you a coward or weird. We’re all scared. But we become champions when we don’t let that fear hold us back from going for what we want.
And all of us have to ignore the haters that try to keep us from doing what we love. Sometimes they’re people who say mean things. Other times they’re the self doubt that make us question whether or not we have what it takes. Whatever they are, you have to ignore them and focus on the prize—a finished piece.
So this is my advice to you, writers:
Dream big and turn those dreams into plans.
Work hard and dedicate yourself to your craft.
Make time to write and make it a habit.
Don’t let fear bring you down.
Be fierce. Be brave. Be daring.
And ignore the haters.
Don’t let them keep you from dreaming and writing.
Thank you for being here today. Keep going and keep believing your words matter, because they do. Now, to end on the moment you’ve perhaps been curious about from the beginning. Why did you write down those random words with your teams? While you were writing away, I wrote them into a Mad Lib. Here it goes:
It actually made some kind of sense!
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
Like countless others, I have Olympic Winter Games fever.
Lady Jane and I surfing the sofa and cheering onthe women's relay. Like. Bosses.
When I'm not watching the Olympics, I seem to be reading up on them. Even the book I just finished reading centered around the Olympics. When it came time to figure out the focus and theme for my break-out workshop, it hit me like Marai Nagasu landing her triple axel in the short program. I needed to celebrate the Olympics.
It was so. Much. Fun. The students--even the shy ones--seemed to get into the spirit of the whole thing. They broke out into their randomly appointed teams and seemed to create tight-knit units immediately. They brainstormed and shared and wrote some pretty spectacular pieces off the cuff.
I wanted to share the script I created as well as a few pictures from the day. (No photos of the students as I don't have their parents' permission to post them here.) I actually stuck to it pretty faithfully, because I was trying to kick a nasty cold, and it took most of my energy to stay upright and be peppy in intervals. I also had a slide show with gifs and videos, but I'll only include where necessary.
Here it is, the 2018 Writers Write Olympics . . .
[Play Olympics Theme Music]
Welcome to the inaugural Writers Write Olympics, where everyone is a fierce writer and everyone wins. I’m Laura Chapman, your master of ceremonies, coach, and biggest cheerleader. In today’s Olympic games, we’ll discuss what it takes to be a champion writer and chase writing gold for ourselves and our teams. Are you ready, writers?
You can practically see the cold medicine radiating from my pores.OPENING CEREMONY
Before we begin today’s games, we need to create some teams. Please select a slip of paper from the Olympic Cup and go to the table with that color of folder and star. Go ahead and introduce yourself to your team members. Share your name. Where you go to school. And the best book you’ve read this year.
[Pause for introductions]
Now it’s time to make your team stand out. Go ahead and select a name and write it down on that star. You’ll also need a motto. Write it on the Post-It note on your folder. And take that poster board and make a flag You have five minutes. Before we begin the Parade of Nations, open up your folder and pull out the single sheet of paper with word prompts. Fill those in quickly as a team, selecting nouns, adverbs, adjectives and so on. You’ll need those later.
PARADE OF NATIONS
Let’s meet our Olympic Teams. Bring everyone on up. One of you will be the flag bearer. One of you will share the name and motto.
[TEAMS SHARE]
Thank you all for representing your schools and teams. I officially declare the Writers Write Olympic Games Open. Let the games begin!
TEAM PRELIMS
For our preliminary round, we’re going to do a team writing activity. Before we begin, let’s watch a brief clip from this year’s Olympics.
[PLAY: https://youtu.be/RvEFtNYVQVI]
That’s Mirai Nagasu, a 24-year-old from Team USA. This week she became the first American female figure skater to successfully land a triple axel at the Olympics. She’s only the third woman to do so at the games. Can you imagine what that’s like? With your teams, write what you think was gong through her mind and how she felt during these 30 seconds.
One of the slides I created under the influence of a fever and meds.Work together to show and tell those thoughts and feelings in a short vignette. You can do this together as a team by discussing. Or you can do it Round Robin style where each team member writes one sentence and passes it on. The choice is yours, but you have five minutes. Are you ready? Begin.
[WRITE]
Please select a member from your team to share what you’ve written.
[TEAMS SHARE]
Well done, teams. You’ve done a great job working together to fulfill your goals. Writing can often be a solitary experience, but it’s good to have a network of friends. They can help you brainstorm. They’ll keep you motivated. And sometimes you can work together to create a project.
INDIVIDUAL COMPETITION
Now it’s time to move on to the next phase of our games, the individual competition. Please open up your folders again and remove the folded sheets of paper. When you sit down to write, you don’t need to have have an outline. But it’s beneficial to have an idea of what you will write about. It helps you be more productive and reduces stress and anxiety. Open your folded sheet of paper and look at your picture. Use it to inspire a scene or poem. You can write about the person or people it in it. Or perhaps you’re writing from the perspective of someone witnessing it. Or maybe it’s the setting or activity. It’s your choice. You’ll have two chunks of time to write. I’m going to set the time for the first one now. I’ll let you know when you have 30 seconds left. Are you ready? Go!
[WRITE]
COMMERCIAL BREAK
That’s time. We’ll get back to our writing, but first we’ll be back after a word from our sponsors. When writing, it’s a good idea to give yourself breaks. Not only is it good for your body and health to move around, but it helps stir the creative choices. Everyone stand up. Go ahead and shake it out a little. Now for our first stretches.
fingers wristsarms (up, across, out) calf raises
Now we’ll march in place, moving our arms like so. Does everyone feel a little more loose?
Great, let’s get back for Round 2. Again, think about what you’re writing. Think about how that person reacts to their setting. What are they feeling? How can you show it? I’ll set the timer again and let you know when we’re up to the final 30 seconds.
[WRITE]
Okay, that’s it for this writing session. How did it feel writing in those two bits of time? Writing in short, timed writes like the ones we just did are called sprints. The idea is to set a timer for anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes and take breaks between. It’s based on a productivity tool called the Pomodoro Technique. Setting out to accomplish a big goal, like writing a story or poem, can be daunting. But when you break it down into smaller chunks like that—and take breaks—it becomes more manageable. Now it’s time to share our work with each other.
Have everyone at your table go around and share your stories with each other. When you’re done, select one person who will share his or her story with the room. Ready? Go.
MEDAL CEREMONY
The "medals" I gave each student after reading. They're the colors ofthe teams they'd worked with all morning.
Do we have our three representatives? Let’s go around the room and share.
[Almost everyone ended up sharing, which was awesome.]
Thank you all for representing your teams. Would you each please come up here. In recognition of your bravery and good work, please accept this medal. Please take these others back to your tables and present them to your teammates.
CLOSING CEREMONY
Thank you all for participating in the Writers Write Olympics. I hope you had fun. If you think about it, we writers have a lot in common with Olympic athletes.
For all of us, success begins when we turn our dreams into plans. It’s one thing to say we want to win the half pipe or write a story. It’s another to come up with a way to make it happen. How do we accomplish this as writers? We make outlines, develop characters, and brainstorm.
It also takes hard work and dedication. That means sitting down with a pen and paper or a computer to write. It means making time for it and committing to your words. We have to practice doing that. Like skiing down hill or skating at high speed, writing takes muscles. To get your muscles in top shape, you have to do it often and practice, practice, practice.
It can be scary to create a story or a poem then to turn around and share it with others. Just like it must be nerve-wracking to skate a routine on ice in front of fans around the world. It’s okay to be afraid. That doesn’t make you a coward or weird. We’re all scared. But we become champions when we don’t let that fear hold us back from going for what we want.
And all of us have to ignore the haters that try to keep us from doing what we love. Sometimes they’re people who say mean things. Other times they’re the self doubt that make us question whether or not we have what it takes. Whatever they are, you have to ignore them and focus on the prize—a finished piece.
So this is my advice to you, writers:
Dream big and turn those dreams into plans.
Work hard and dedicate yourself to your craft.
Make time to write and make it a habit.
Don’t let fear bring you down.
Be fierce. Be brave. Be daring.
And ignore the haters.
Don’t let them keep you from dreaming and writing.
Thank you for being here today. Keep going and keep believing your words matter, because they do. Now, to end on the moment you’ve perhaps been curious about from the beginning. Why did you write down those random words with your teams? While you were writing away, I wrote them into a Mad Lib. Here it goes:
It actually made some kind of sense!***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
February 13, 2018
what i'm loving this february
After a month spent going to and renting movies, reading books, and basically living my best life, there are so many things I'm loving right now. It was difficult to narrow it down to a top five, but here we go.
Right now I'm loving:
Playing Catch-Up on Hallmark movies. While watching TV during cardio, I discovered a couple of new favorite Hallmark movies. I apparently missed out on a lot of new flicks the last year or two. Several were charming, but my hands-down favorite was Birthday Wish . This has one of my favorite tropes: a newly 30-year-old woman makes a birthday wish and gets a glimpse at what her future looks like, and it isn't what she expected. This movie did it with a fresh take, and I found myself totally swooning for the couple and their story. I liked it enough I've already re-watched it and saved it to my DVR for another future viewing.
World War II movies and research. Following my now annual binge-watch of The Crown , I was particularly drawn to a couple of this year's Oscar-nominated films from just before that time period. I went to see Darkest Hour after work one evening and came home to watch Dunkirk on Prime. Both were well done, and I appreciated seeing more of what the war was like before U.S. involvement. (I admit, I knew almost nothing about the conflict before Pearl Harbor.) While reading up on World War II, I also found myself having conversations with my parents to learn more about family members who served. I channeled the former journalist who lives inside me and scrolled through digital archives to find their draft papers, and in one case POW information. Just last weekend, my mom and I looked through old family photos and materials. One of my favorite pieces is a personalized prayer book my great uncle received from the Ladies Aid at his church just before he left for training.
Victoria on Masterpiece. I'm behind on watching Season 2, but I've spent the past week re-watching Season 1 on Prime. And oh my goodness! I'd forgotten how dreamy Tom Hughes was. Oh me, oh my, I might have a little crush on Prince Albert. Or Tom Hughes. Or Tom Hughes playing Albert. Or all of the above. Note to self: Find out if the prince was dishy in real life.
Learning about the Plantagenets. I'm taking forever to read Dan Jones's book on the subject, but I'm enjoying every moment. I've only made it to King Richard returning from the Crusade to a less-than-stellar homecoming, but friends, there's so much drama. Who knew the middle ages were so compelling? Well, probably you if you've read up on the subject yourself, but isn't it fascinating. And here's a little fun fact . . . Reading this book also qualifies as research of sorts for the book I'm writing now. Tuck that little fact away for later.
Green Giant broccoli and cauliflower tots. Trust me, when you're watching what you eat, there are few things in the world that taste better than bits of broccoli or cauliflower mashed up into the shape of a tater tot. So. Good.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
Right now I'm loving:
Playing Catch-Up on Hallmark movies. While watching TV during cardio, I discovered a couple of new favorite Hallmark movies. I apparently missed out on a lot of new flicks the last year or two. Several were charming, but my hands-down favorite was Birthday Wish . This has one of my favorite tropes: a newly 30-year-old woman makes a birthday wish and gets a glimpse at what her future looks like, and it isn't what she expected. This movie did it with a fresh take, and I found myself totally swooning for the couple and their story. I liked it enough I've already re-watched it and saved it to my DVR for another future viewing.
World War II movies and research. Following my now annual binge-watch of The Crown , I was particularly drawn to a couple of this year's Oscar-nominated films from just before that time period. I went to see Darkest Hour after work one evening and came home to watch Dunkirk on Prime. Both were well done, and I appreciated seeing more of what the war was like before U.S. involvement. (I admit, I knew almost nothing about the conflict before Pearl Harbor.) While reading up on World War II, I also found myself having conversations with my parents to learn more about family members who served. I channeled the former journalist who lives inside me and scrolled through digital archives to find their draft papers, and in one case POW information. Just last weekend, my mom and I looked through old family photos and materials. One of my favorite pieces is a personalized prayer book my great uncle received from the Ladies Aid at his church just before he left for training.
Victoria on Masterpiece. I'm behind on watching Season 2, but I've spent the past week re-watching Season 1 on Prime. And oh my goodness! I'd forgotten how dreamy Tom Hughes was. Oh me, oh my, I might have a little crush on Prince Albert. Or Tom Hughes. Or Tom Hughes playing Albert. Or all of the above. Note to self: Find out if the prince was dishy in real life.
Learning about the Plantagenets. I'm taking forever to read Dan Jones's book on the subject, but I'm enjoying every moment. I've only made it to King Richard returning from the Crusade to a less-than-stellar homecoming, but friends, there's so much drama. Who knew the middle ages were so compelling? Well, probably you if you've read up on the subject yourself, but isn't it fascinating. And here's a little fun fact . . . Reading this book also qualifies as research of sorts for the book I'm writing now. Tuck that little fact away for later.
Green Giant broccoli and cauliflower tots. Trust me, when you're watching what you eat, there are few things in the world that taste better than bits of broccoli or cauliflower mashed up into the shape of a tater tot. So. Good.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
February 8, 2018
ready to hop?
Are you excited about Valentine's Day? The authors at Chick Lit Chat HQ are, and we know quite a bit about romance, not to mention gorgeous guys and swoonworthy storylines, which is why we've put together a fun-filled event that celebrates all these wonderful things.
That's right, book lovers, it's time for the Sweet Treats & Yummy Reads Hop! Starting February 12, 40+ Chick Lit and RomCom authors will be throwing a fabulous, Valentine-themed bash on Facebook and each of them will be offering a GIVEAWAY--books, gift cards, author swag, and lots of other wonderful prizes will be up for grabs!
(Including a little something from moi. Visit my Facebook page on February 12 for details!)
But wait, there's more! You know we have the "yummy reads" covered (this group is nothing if not crazy talented), but what about the "sweet treats?" Hold on to your hats, peeps, because CLC HQ has outdone itself this time. We'll be giving away not one, not two, but THREE Grand Prizes for this hop and each of those lucky winners will receive a 6-pack of Wicked Good Cupcakes!*
And the best news of all? You get to choose your own sinfully delicious flavors. (Commence happy dance now.)
So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to the Sweet Treats & Yummy Reads Hop on Facebook and join the group page where you can meet and chat with fellow readers, as well as some of the most popular authors in your favorite genres, plus find the lists of participating authors and enter to win one of the Grand Prizes. We look forward to seeing you there!
*Wicked Good Cupcakes only ships to destinations in the United States, so the Grand Prize portion of this hop will not be open to international entrants. However, the 40+ individual author giveaways will be open internationally.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
That's right, book lovers, it's time for the Sweet Treats & Yummy Reads Hop! Starting February 12, 40+ Chick Lit and RomCom authors will be throwing a fabulous, Valentine-themed bash on Facebook and each of them will be offering a GIVEAWAY--books, gift cards, author swag, and lots of other wonderful prizes will be up for grabs!
(Including a little something from moi. Visit my Facebook page on February 12 for details!)
But wait, there's more! You know we have the "yummy reads" covered (this group is nothing if not crazy talented), but what about the "sweet treats?" Hold on to your hats, peeps, because CLC HQ has outdone itself this time. We'll be giving away not one, not two, but THREE Grand Prizes for this hop and each of those lucky winners will receive a 6-pack of Wicked Good Cupcakes!*
And the best news of all? You get to choose your own sinfully delicious flavors. (Commence happy dance now.)
So, what are you waiting for? Head on over to the Sweet Treats & Yummy Reads Hop on Facebook and join the group page where you can meet and chat with fellow readers, as well as some of the most popular authors in your favorite genres, plus find the lists of participating authors and enter to win one of the Grand Prizes. We look forward to seeing you there!
*Wicked Good Cupcakes only ships to destinations in the United States, so the Grand Prize portion of this hop will not be open to international entrants. However, the 40+ individual author giveaways will be open internationally.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
February 5, 2018
my name
In the past year I've spent time with a couple of friends from my past. As we were catching up on years' worth of news and developments, talk would turn to my writing. And in a couple of situations, I was asked the same question: Why did you choose to publish under your own name?
It's a totally legit question. In college I made no secret that I planned to be an author who potentially wrote in different genres. And if that came to be (the writing in different genres; writing in general was always a given) I knew I'd probably need a pen name or three for branding purposes. Apparently more on my game as a 21-year-old than I am now as a 32-year-old, I talked about these kinds of things at the bar and parties. (I know. I constantly prove how cool I am.) With that back story it makes even more sense why they'd raise this question.
Truth is, I'd planned to use a pen name. When I signed up for National Novel Writing Month in November 2010, I chose the username Elle.Chapman for a reason. Maybe Elle Chapman would be my pen name.
It wasn't that I hated my name. I actually have a lot of love for my name. My dad liked the name Laura, because it was his grandmother's name. And my mom liked it because, as a little girl, she remembered the most beautiful, put-together woman at her church was Laura, and the name always stuck. I don't even have qualms about my last name. Well, besides being called Laura "Chapwoman" or "Chapstick" by some of the other kids on the playground growing up. It's a perfectly good name. It just didn't (and sometimes still, to my ear, doesn't) have that star power like Nora Roberts or Agatha Christie. There's also the small fact that Laura Chapman is a fairly common name, and I knew I'd never be able to afford to buy out the domain name for laurachapman.com or any of the social media handles.
So, while I wrote my first two novels and learned a bit more about the industry, I toyed around with potential names.
By the time I started querying agents a year later, I hadn't come up with a pen name I liked. And by the time I found my first publisher a few years later, I'd been blogging under my name. I didn't even think about it when I signed that contract. And so Laura Chapman's book career was born. Like many things in this world, it just happened. There's no great story, not a lot of thought. But now that it's done, I do feel a lot of pride seeing my name on a book cover. I look at it, and I know it's me.
Of course, I still fully plan to use a pen name or two down the road when I get my act together and diversify my writing. Hopefully I put a little more thought into it the next time around.
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
February 1, 2018
harper's guide to your best super bowl
Blogger's Note: Whether you're a football enthusiast or a fair-weather spectator, the Super Bowl can be a time for gathering with friends and family to scream at a TV screen. Though intended to be a day of fun, it can be beneficial to go into it with a plan to make the most of this holiday. With Super Bowl LII on the horizon, who better than the Queen of the League herself, Harper Duquaine to guide us? Please enjoy her tips and suggestions for living your best Super Bowl.
A Guide to Hosting Your Best Super BowlBy Harper Duquaine
It's funny how something like the Super Bowl can sneak up on you. When you consider that I work, live, and (ahem) sleep with men who are obsessed with football, it seems like I should have been more on the ball about this Sunday.
(Okay, quick note. I need to point out that I'm only sleeping with ONE man. Not a group of men. This might have been unclear just now. I live with my brothers. I work with half a dozen grown children masquerading as men. And I'm romantically involved with one really good guy. None of this has anything to do with planning a Super Bowl party, but I just have to make that point clear before we continue. Got it?)
As the token woman in a fantasy football league (and one who's earned a reputation for getting shit done) it usually (more like always) falls on me to plan our weekly football watch parties. So it comes as no surprise that I've been drafted to put together a Super Bowl party for twenty people.
No problem. I could do this in my sleep. But in case you're at all worried about the upcoming Super Bowl (and, okay, I am kind of freaking out a little, and obsessing like this helps me calm down), here are my tips and best practices to help you plan your best Super Bowl party.
#1 DecorationsYou can use as many mason jars or crystal chargers to try to shabby-chic your Super Bowl watch party. But let's face it, at the end of the day, it's easier to just embrace the reality of the situation. Balloons, plastic table covers, paper plates, napkins, and cups in the team colors and so on are going to be your friend in the end. While these aren't great for the environment (Sorry, Mother Earth. Seriously.) at the end of the evening, it's so much easier to do clean-up if you aren't doing dishes.
I tend to hit-up the party stores a few days before the big game and grab utensils in the opposing team's colors. I also have some reusable plastic trays and plates for serving, which frankly matches everything better than my fancy stuff.
Try creating a photo booth with streamers and balloons as a background and props like footballs, trophies, and pom-poms. Word to the wise: Use an inflatable football. One of my friends had a few too many drinks and broke a picture frame when we used a real football last year. Yikes.
#2 MenuDid you know the Super Bowl is one of a handful of days when calories don't count? It's true. I'm pretty sure I read or heard it somewhere (and now you're reading it here). So on this most blessed of days, channel your inner Texan and go big.
Of course there are tried and true staples, such as pizza and nachos. I suggest making at home, using frozen, or ordering carryout hours in advance to make sure you have it all on hand before kick-off. While delivery pizza is both amazing and everything, this is one of the busiest days of the year, and it might take a while for your food to come through. You also can't go wrong with opening up a bag of chips or having a meat and cheese platter so people can build their own sandwiches.
If you're like me, though, this isn't going to be enough. You're going to feel like you have something to prove. Don't worry. I have a whole list of tried-and-true dishes ready. You'll note most of these are vegetarian friendly, because I'm a pescetarian, but you can easily adjust for carnivores.
Here's the list:
Slow-Cooker ChiliWing DipSeven-Layer DipSpinach and Artichoke DipSweet Potato and Chickpea SlidersBlack and Blue Veggie BurgerPortobello Philly Peanut Popcorn Mix
These have all gone over well with my crew, and hey--you can't really do better than a Philly when you have the Eagles playing. I suppose if you wanted to represent New England, you could make some clam chowder or offer up Sam Adams beer. Which brings up the next point . . .
For beverages, we go for a BYOB approach, but I always have plenty of bottles of water and freshly brewed ice tea for the non-drinkers. (Or the drinkers who maybe need to slow it down a little.) Consider having a few ice chests set around your living area for your guests to use. This is convenient for them and it frees up fridge space.
#3 WardrobeWe've already established that we're going to overdo it in the food department. That's why it's absolutely imperative you wear comfy clothes with a loose waist. I'm talking leggings, sweatpants, heck, even a tutu (try this tutorial), but please, for yourself, avoid wearing skinny jeans. Or, if you're someone who feels like you have to live in khakis (I'm looking at you, Brook) make sure your top is long enough that it will cover your stomach when you inevitably undo your top button to make room for more nachos.
Here's what I suggest for a night of stylish comfort to mark the occasion:
Oversized football jersey (Any team will do. I'll be wearing a Packers jersey, because I'll never wear an Eagles jersey again, and I'm not cheering for the Pats. #sorrynotsorry) Leggings. Paired with the long jersey, you'll be super comfy. If you choose correctly, you can be stylish too. While it isn't totally important (but it certainly doesn't hurt) this look really seems to work for my gentleman friend.Thermal socks. It's February. Even if your toes are painted cute for the occasion, it's going to get cold. Plus, let's be serious, who has time for a proper pedicure when there's so much else to do before your guests arrive?
This is one part of the evening you don't have to worry about. Choose comfort, my friends.
#4 Activities Okay, we're all going to step into the trust circle here. And you all absolutely have to promise not to tell my friends what I'm about to admit to you. Ready? Okay, here it goes. Sometimes, I find the Super Bowl boring. I know, I know! But, seriously, some years I don't care who wins or loses and the commercials are kind of lame.
Fortunately, my friend Amelia and I have come up with a few little games to pass the time.
Place bets on which party guest will spill his beer first.Create a drinking game where you take a drink every time: a) there's a first down b) a Budweiser commercial airs c) a washed-up celebrity makes a cameo d) an announcer says "controls the line of scrimmage," "take care of the football," "deep penetration," or "ball carrier" (it's also okay to laugh like a thirteen-year-old when you hear these) e) your fellow party attendees let out a shout of disappointment. Finish your drink when the x or there's an obvious malfunction during the half-time performance. Play "who would you rather" or F***, Marry, Kill with the starting line-up. (We're not particularly proud of this, but desperate times, you know.)
#5 Conflict ResolutionIt happens. Sometimes fans get a little too passionate. Maybe someone has a few too many. Perhaps your significant other says you make a better door than a window while you're trying to pick up trash, and you spend the fourth quarter passive aggressively making faces behind his back. Whatever the situation, sometimes we have to take five and get to the bottom of the issue. As quickly as possible so you don't miss any big plays or commercials.
I suggest waiting until a play is being reviewed and the commentators are yapping on about how so-and-so is a real fighter or yadda-yadda chokes under pressure to quickly resolve any issues at your party. To do this, you need to follow these five easy steps:
As calmly as possible, make sure the conflicting guests mutually recognize there's a problem.Make sure both individuals agree to fix the problems.Have each person try to understand the other person's perspective.Establish what behaviors or attitudes each needs to change to prevent future altercations.Quickly hold a thumb-wrestling match, and declare one person the winner, because it looks like we're about to go to a commercial break.
Yeah, unfortunately, I don't have a ton to offer here. I just say, get through the party as best as you can, knowing it's perfectly okay for you to take as many bags of trash to the dumpster as you need to give yourself a break from the insanity. And, if you play your cards right, you must might be able to get that jerk-face significant other to put away all the leftovers and do the dishes, because he feels bad for hurting your feelings.
Hope these tips help you with your Super Bowl Party Plans. If you're hosting, be sure to share you pictures on my creator's Facebook and Twitter pages. Enjoy the game and, oh what the heck. I don't care that they're not playing. GO PACK GO!
About the Queen of the League TrilogyWhen Harper Duquaine’s no-nonsense approach to work unintentionally ruffles the wrong feathers at her new job, she joins her co-workers’ fantasy football league to prove she can hang with the guys. Only problem: she doesn’t know a sleeper from a keeper (or any of the other lingo thrown her way). Follow her journey and mis-adventures through three seasons as she proves she's worthy of the championship trophy and true love.
First & Goal | Going for Two | Three & Out
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
A Guide to Hosting Your Best Super BowlBy Harper Duquaine
It's funny how something like the Super Bowl can sneak up on you. When you consider that I work, live, and (ahem) sleep with men who are obsessed with football, it seems like I should have been more on the ball about this Sunday.
(Okay, quick note. I need to point out that I'm only sleeping with ONE man. Not a group of men. This might have been unclear just now. I live with my brothers. I work with half a dozen grown children masquerading as men. And I'm romantically involved with one really good guy. None of this has anything to do with planning a Super Bowl party, but I just have to make that point clear before we continue. Got it?)
As the token woman in a fantasy football league (and one who's earned a reputation for getting shit done) it usually (more like always) falls on me to plan our weekly football watch parties. So it comes as no surprise that I've been drafted to put together a Super Bowl party for twenty people.
No problem. I could do this in my sleep. But in case you're at all worried about the upcoming Super Bowl (and, okay, I am kind of freaking out a little, and obsessing like this helps me calm down), here are my tips and best practices to help you plan your best Super Bowl party.
#1 DecorationsYou can use as many mason jars or crystal chargers to try to shabby-chic your Super Bowl watch party. But let's face it, at the end of the day, it's easier to just embrace the reality of the situation. Balloons, plastic table covers, paper plates, napkins, and cups in the team colors and so on are going to be your friend in the end. While these aren't great for the environment (Sorry, Mother Earth. Seriously.) at the end of the evening, it's so much easier to do clean-up if you aren't doing dishes.
I tend to hit-up the party stores a few days before the big game and grab utensils in the opposing team's colors. I also have some reusable plastic trays and plates for serving, which frankly matches everything better than my fancy stuff.
Try creating a photo booth with streamers and balloons as a background and props like footballs, trophies, and pom-poms. Word to the wise: Use an inflatable football. One of my friends had a few too many drinks and broke a picture frame when we used a real football last year. Yikes.
#2 MenuDid you know the Super Bowl is one of a handful of days when calories don't count? It's true. I'm pretty sure I read or heard it somewhere (and now you're reading it here). So on this most blessed of days, channel your inner Texan and go big.
Of course there are tried and true staples, such as pizza and nachos. I suggest making at home, using frozen, or ordering carryout hours in advance to make sure you have it all on hand before kick-off. While delivery pizza is both amazing and everything, this is one of the busiest days of the year, and it might take a while for your food to come through. You also can't go wrong with opening up a bag of chips or having a meat and cheese platter so people can build their own sandwiches.
If you're like me, though, this isn't going to be enough. You're going to feel like you have something to prove. Don't worry. I have a whole list of tried-and-true dishes ready. You'll note most of these are vegetarian friendly, because I'm a pescetarian, but you can easily adjust for carnivores.
Here's the list:
Slow-Cooker ChiliWing DipSeven-Layer DipSpinach and Artichoke DipSweet Potato and Chickpea SlidersBlack and Blue Veggie BurgerPortobello Philly Peanut Popcorn Mix
These have all gone over well with my crew, and hey--you can't really do better than a Philly when you have the Eagles playing. I suppose if you wanted to represent New England, you could make some clam chowder or offer up Sam Adams beer. Which brings up the next point . . .
For beverages, we go for a BYOB approach, but I always have plenty of bottles of water and freshly brewed ice tea for the non-drinkers. (Or the drinkers who maybe need to slow it down a little.) Consider having a few ice chests set around your living area for your guests to use. This is convenient for them and it frees up fridge space.
#3 WardrobeWe've already established that we're going to overdo it in the food department. That's why it's absolutely imperative you wear comfy clothes with a loose waist. I'm talking leggings, sweatpants, heck, even a tutu (try this tutorial), but please, for yourself, avoid wearing skinny jeans. Or, if you're someone who feels like you have to live in khakis (I'm looking at you, Brook) make sure your top is long enough that it will cover your stomach when you inevitably undo your top button to make room for more nachos.
Here's what I suggest for a night of stylish comfort to mark the occasion:
Oversized football jersey (Any team will do. I'll be wearing a Packers jersey, because I'll never wear an Eagles jersey again, and I'm not cheering for the Pats. #sorrynotsorry) Leggings. Paired with the long jersey, you'll be super comfy. If you choose correctly, you can be stylish too. While it isn't totally important (but it certainly doesn't hurt) this look really seems to work for my gentleman friend.Thermal socks. It's February. Even if your toes are painted cute for the occasion, it's going to get cold. Plus, let's be serious, who has time for a proper pedicure when there's so much else to do before your guests arrive?
This is one part of the evening you don't have to worry about. Choose comfort, my friends.
#4 Activities Okay, we're all going to step into the trust circle here. And you all absolutely have to promise not to tell my friends what I'm about to admit to you. Ready? Okay, here it goes. Sometimes, I find the Super Bowl boring. I know, I know! But, seriously, some years I don't care who wins or loses and the commercials are kind of lame.
Fortunately, my friend Amelia and I have come up with a few little games to pass the time.
Place bets on which party guest will spill his beer first.Create a drinking game where you take a drink every time: a) there's a first down b) a Budweiser commercial airs c) a washed-up celebrity makes a cameo d) an announcer says "controls the line of scrimmage," "take care of the football," "deep penetration," or "ball carrier" (it's also okay to laugh like a thirteen-year-old when you hear these) e) your fellow party attendees let out a shout of disappointment. Finish your drink when the x or there's an obvious malfunction during the half-time performance. Play "who would you rather" or F***, Marry, Kill with the starting line-up. (We're not particularly proud of this, but desperate times, you know.)
#5 Conflict ResolutionIt happens. Sometimes fans get a little too passionate. Maybe someone has a few too many. Perhaps your significant other says you make a better door than a window while you're trying to pick up trash, and you spend the fourth quarter passive aggressively making faces behind his back. Whatever the situation, sometimes we have to take five and get to the bottom of the issue. As quickly as possible so you don't miss any big plays or commercials.
I suggest waiting until a play is being reviewed and the commentators are yapping on about how so-and-so is a real fighter or yadda-yadda chokes under pressure to quickly resolve any issues at your party. To do this, you need to follow these five easy steps:
As calmly as possible, make sure the conflicting guests mutually recognize there's a problem.Make sure both individuals agree to fix the problems.Have each person try to understand the other person's perspective.Establish what behaviors or attitudes each needs to change to prevent future altercations.Quickly hold a thumb-wrestling match, and declare one person the winner, because it looks like we're about to go to a commercial break.
Yeah, unfortunately, I don't have a ton to offer here. I just say, get through the party as best as you can, knowing it's perfectly okay for you to take as many bags of trash to the dumpster as you need to give yourself a break from the insanity. And, if you play your cards right, you must might be able to get that jerk-face significant other to put away all the leftovers and do the dishes, because he feels bad for hurting your feelings.
Hope these tips help you with your Super Bowl Party Plans. If you're hosting, be sure to share you pictures on my creator's Facebook and Twitter pages. Enjoy the game and, oh what the heck. I don't care that they're not playing. GO PACK GO!
About the Queen of the League TrilogyWhen Harper Duquaine’s no-nonsense approach to work unintentionally ruffles the wrong feathers at her new job, she joins her co-workers’ fantasy football league to prove she can hang with the guys. Only problem: she doesn’t know a sleeper from a keeper (or any of the other lingo thrown her way). Follow her journey and mis-adventures through three seasons as she proves she's worthy of the championship trophy and true love.
First & Goal | Going for Two | Three & Out
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
January 29, 2018
january 2018: what I read (and watched)
In case I haven't said it enough, my word for the year is "Balance." Between trying to live a healthier lifestyle and honing my professional words (day job and writing), I also wanted to make sure I was taking time to do the things I love. Reading and going to the movies are two of my great loves. I love slipping into different worlds and becoming totally entranced with a story--whether it's one I hold in my hands or see on the screen. The past couple years, I've been so consumed with stressing over my own storytelling, I've missed out on these other two loves. And I think it's actually hurt my storytelling. I need to read and watch to become inspired and better at my craft.
With that in mind, two of my second tier goals were to read more and to see more movies. To keep myself honest, I'll share a recap at the end of each month. So, without further ado . . .
What I Read
Not Another Bad Date by Rachel GibsonWith a new release by Rachel Gibson on my TBR list this month (more in a moment on that), I kept thinking about scenes from one of the first RG books I read years ago during my romance renaissance (Summer 2008-Winter 2011). What started as skimming a few spots turned into me re-reading the whole book for the first time in almost 10 years. I loved this series then, and while I still enjoyed it this time around, I can definitely tell my taste in leading men has changed. I'm also beginning to think that the real reason I'll never live a real-life rom com has less to do with general plausibility and more to do with my ability to really hold a grudge.
The Art of Running in Heels by Rachel GibsonThere was a lot I liked about this book. For one, I love the idea of meeting up with the children of some of the Chinooks we met years ago. Two, the hero of this book had a fantastic back story, and was a pretty stand-up guy (all things considered). Three, I'm a fan of reality TV meets romance. (Cough, cough, The Marrying Type.) But something about this story fell a little short for me. I can't even entirely explain it. Maybe it's me and where I'm at right now in life. Or maybe I'd built it up too much. Either way, I'll try reading this one again down the road to see if maybe a change of timing adjusts my feelings for it.
Need You Now by Nicole HelmI had a tough time getting into this one. While there was lots to like (the set-up and setting) I just didn't connect with either of the leads in this one as much as I would have liked. Again, this could be me and where I am right now as a reader. I should maybe get my head checked out.
And . . . that's it for this month. I didn't read as many books as I'd intended, but that has a lot to do with what I'm reading right now: a massive historical non-fiction. I'm really enjoying it, but at 500+ pages, it's taking me some time. I'll be back next month (I hope) with an update.
What I Watched
Darkest Hour (in theater)I paired this viewing with a rental of Dunkirk, all in one evening, which I highly recommend. Though I've heard some say it was a little slow moving, I found the time passed quickly. I particularly appreciated how the movie was broken down by dates (which really illustrated to this American how quickly Britain went from naming Churchill prime minister to the evacuation at Dunkirk). And though Gary Oldman deserves the praise he's received for his portrayal of Churchill, I found the supporting cast equally well performed.
Dunkirk (at home)About 15 minutes into viewing this rental at home, I regretted not making time to see it in the theater. Though there's virtually no background provided for any of the characters, this ensemble cast brought their roles to life and had me completely captivated and interested in their well-being, even though I barely knew their names, let alone anything else about them. I also appreciated the layered timeline and the attention to detail that went into creating an authentic look. When it was over, I spent much of the next week thinking about it and diving into research rabbit holes on both the Dunkirk evacuation and film. I'm also thrilled to say I'll have my chance to see this movie in theater when I go to a two-day theatrical event that plays all nine best picture movies. Score!
The Post (in theater)With a movie starring Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks, you really can't go wrong. With a stellar supporting cast that held their own with these two legends, I completely enjoyed this movie. The two hours flew by, and it took me back to my Mass Media Law class in college. This was another movie that sent me down a research frenzy. I actually fell asleep at my laptop reading up on the real-life people involved in the Pentagon Papers and beyond.
I, Tonya (in theater)This movie was pretty much exactly what I imagined it would be. I clearly remember coming home to watch Hard Copy while Tonya Harting/Nancy Kerrigan drama prevailed. And it's one one of few times I remember my whole family sitting down to watch the Olympics together. Told in a campy light that was both funny and sad, I particularly appreciated how the movie's structure really pushed the point that there are no reliable narrators in most situations. Everyone has their own version and bias that they bring to the table. And, yes, Allison Janney is, and has always been, a treasure.
Hallmark Winterfest (at home) These Hallmark movies offered a nice break from the more serious (though entirely enjoyable) dramas I've been watching lately. My ranking for how I enjoyed these movies . . . is actually the order in which they aired.
Love on the Slopes Frozen in Love One Winter Weekend Winter's Dream
Plus, I checked out several Old Hollywood movies, including Bringing Up Baby, Pride & Prejudice (Laurence Olivier), Gaslight and so on.
What have you been watching lately?
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
With that in mind, two of my second tier goals were to read more and to see more movies. To keep myself honest, I'll share a recap at the end of each month. So, without further ado . . .
What I Read
Not Another Bad Date by Rachel GibsonWith a new release by Rachel Gibson on my TBR list this month (more in a moment on that), I kept thinking about scenes from one of the first RG books I read years ago during my romance renaissance (Summer 2008-Winter 2011). What started as skimming a few spots turned into me re-reading the whole book for the first time in almost 10 years. I loved this series then, and while I still enjoyed it this time around, I can definitely tell my taste in leading men has changed. I'm also beginning to think that the real reason I'll never live a real-life rom com has less to do with general plausibility and more to do with my ability to really hold a grudge.
The Art of Running in Heels by Rachel GibsonThere was a lot I liked about this book. For one, I love the idea of meeting up with the children of some of the Chinooks we met years ago. Two, the hero of this book had a fantastic back story, and was a pretty stand-up guy (all things considered). Three, I'm a fan of reality TV meets romance. (Cough, cough, The Marrying Type.) But something about this story fell a little short for me. I can't even entirely explain it. Maybe it's me and where I'm at right now in life. Or maybe I'd built it up too much. Either way, I'll try reading this one again down the road to see if maybe a change of timing adjusts my feelings for it.
Need You Now by Nicole HelmI had a tough time getting into this one. While there was lots to like (the set-up and setting) I just didn't connect with either of the leads in this one as much as I would have liked. Again, this could be me and where I am right now as a reader. I should maybe get my head checked out.
And . . . that's it for this month. I didn't read as many books as I'd intended, but that has a lot to do with what I'm reading right now: a massive historical non-fiction. I'm really enjoying it, but at 500+ pages, it's taking me some time. I'll be back next month (I hope) with an update.
What I Watched
Darkest Hour (in theater)I paired this viewing with a rental of Dunkirk, all in one evening, which I highly recommend. Though I've heard some say it was a little slow moving, I found the time passed quickly. I particularly appreciated how the movie was broken down by dates (which really illustrated to this American how quickly Britain went from naming Churchill prime minister to the evacuation at Dunkirk). And though Gary Oldman deserves the praise he's received for his portrayal of Churchill, I found the supporting cast equally well performed.
Dunkirk (at home)About 15 minutes into viewing this rental at home, I regretted not making time to see it in the theater. Though there's virtually no background provided for any of the characters, this ensemble cast brought their roles to life and had me completely captivated and interested in their well-being, even though I barely knew their names, let alone anything else about them. I also appreciated the layered timeline and the attention to detail that went into creating an authentic look. When it was over, I spent much of the next week thinking about it and diving into research rabbit holes on both the Dunkirk evacuation and film. I'm also thrilled to say I'll have my chance to see this movie in theater when I go to a two-day theatrical event that plays all nine best picture movies. Score!
The Post (in theater)With a movie starring Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks, you really can't go wrong. With a stellar supporting cast that held their own with these two legends, I completely enjoyed this movie. The two hours flew by, and it took me back to my Mass Media Law class in college. This was another movie that sent me down a research frenzy. I actually fell asleep at my laptop reading up on the real-life people involved in the Pentagon Papers and beyond.
I, Tonya (in theater)This movie was pretty much exactly what I imagined it would be. I clearly remember coming home to watch Hard Copy while Tonya Harting/Nancy Kerrigan drama prevailed. And it's one one of few times I remember my whole family sitting down to watch the Olympics together. Told in a campy light that was both funny and sad, I particularly appreciated how the movie's structure really pushed the point that there are no reliable narrators in most situations. Everyone has their own version and bias that they bring to the table. And, yes, Allison Janney is, and has always been, a treasure.
Hallmark Winterfest (at home) These Hallmark movies offered a nice break from the more serious (though entirely enjoyable) dramas I've been watching lately. My ranking for how I enjoyed these movies . . . is actually the order in which they aired.
Love on the Slopes Frozen in Love One Winter Weekend Winter's Dream
Plus, I checked out several Old Hollywood movies, including Bringing Up Baby, Pride & Prejudice (Laurence Olivier), Gaslight and so on.
What have you been watching lately?
***Let's take this relationship to the next level. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for day-to-day shenanigans. Subscribe to my newsletter for monthly updates and new release/sales notices AND score a free copy of one of my books as my thanks to you. You can also find me on Amazon and BookBub.***
