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Monday, December 30, 2013

Happy New Years!

Hi my lovely readers!

A day late, but that's what happens when you're at holiday/football parties. But now I'm here!

So some updates on the two possible book readings. Unfortunately, I may have been a little too presumptuous with saying something could happen before I go back to school; nothing's happening. Also, it seems that the independent bookstore, The Raven, doesn't exactly hold book readings for young adult; I spoke with the manager today, and young adult readings aren't exactly popular in her store.

But there's still good news. The Raven has bought copies of my book, and according to the manager, they are now on sale (so for all my KU friends, go pick up a copy). Ms. Raak (the manager) also suggested calling back in a few months to see about doing a reading at the Lawrence library (which she suggested).

And as for the Bares and Noble, Mr. Thomas has received my book and availability dates. He's handing it off to some people and teachers to try to spread the word around while thinking up of how to do this event. I can't wait to see what's in store!

Weekly (Dis)likes:

Like 1: CHRISTMAS! I had a wonderful Christmas. My whole family went to Christmas Day mass, and then we spent the day at my grandparent's place opening gifts. Some highlight presents:

an electric teakettle
the latest Black Veil Brides CD
big buck gift cards to Barnes and Noble and Amazon
nice stud earrings
J.R.R Tolkien's complete Lord of the Rings trilogy (I've been meaning to read that. I hope it's good.)
a fancy schmancy makeup kit

This year's been hard, but this Christmas was fantastic. I wouldn't want to spend it with anyone else. :)

Like 2: After Christmas shopping. Got myself some nice little goodies, and I now have a dress to wear for my college graduation.

Like 3: Parties! My mom's friend Barbara had a party this Saturday at her beautiful house. There was delicious food and friendly people, and I had a really good time. And just yesterday the family hung out at the grandparent's place to watch football and snack on Hawaiian pizza.

Dislike 1: I go back to school this Thursday because classes start on Friday. Not that I hate Knox, but I just wish break was a little longer. :P

And quote!

"I'd rather be hated for who I am, than loved for who I am not." --Kurt Cobain

Bye bye,
Colleen

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Let's Do It Again (Maybe)

Hello Internet surfers. Hang ten, bro!

So, after last blog's hype about the release party/book signing, there's a chance for a few more (book signings, though, no parties). My grandpa was able to get me the contact info to the public relations guy from the Leawood Barnes and Noble. I wrote to him, asking about a possible reading, and he wrote back! Apparently, B&N schedules readings like six weeks in advance, so it won't be until March at least (during my Spring break), but still! Barnes and Noble! Big chain bookstore! How can I pass this up? Either way, he wrote that to start the whole thing off the process, he'd need a copy of my book and available dates for the reading. This week I drove over and delivered them. Haven't heard from him yet, but given it's the holidays, he's probably busy. I can wait. :)

A sooner possible prospect is another independent store. It's called The Raven Bookstore in Lawrence, and a good friend of mine from high school gave me the contact info for the owner. I sent her an email as well, but unlike B&N, I haven't heard from her. When it's been a week, I'll try calling her to talk just in case she didn't get my email.

Still on a hype from the book signing! YAY!!!

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: Christmas is this week! Bring on the good times!

Like 2: My sister Allison is coming home tomorrow from studying abroad in Ecuador. It'll be so good to see her; I've missed her. She does have 33 hours and at least six planes she has to go through to get home, so here's praying she makes it here safe and sound.

Like 3: Look what I found at Barnes and Noble during the delivery:
Note the stack of books to the right. Either B&N didn't have much to put out, or people have bought all but the two here. I'm betting it's the latter. :)

Dislike 1: It's gotten really cold. I don't like the cold. :P

And quote!

"I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear." -Nelson Mandela (God bless you, man.)

Bye,
Colleen

Saturday, December 14, 2013

The Book Release

So, of course, we have new concerning the fact my book's release, officially making me an author, and the release party on Dec. 3rd. How did it go?

IT. WAS. AWESOME!

We showed up, placed the food out, and I sat at the table the store owners had set up with plenty of books. A lot of people showed up, many people I haven't seen in ages (and it was so nice to see them all), and I signed so many books my elbow started cramping up from keeping it folded. In the middle of the party, I did a reading of the first chapter, and then a Q and A session, then finished up with more book signings. It went incredibly well, and I'm very pleased with how things turned out. Here's some pictures for those who couldn't come (this is the reason this is a bi-weekly blog; it took some time to get this all together):











More pictures and even video are possibly on the way.

Secondly, I'm thinking of doing more readings. My grandpa found some info on how to contact the local Barnes and Noble to ask for a signing. And a good friend of mine in Lawrence mentioned me to one of the independent bookstore owners; the owner was interested, so she gave my friend the store email address, which my friend gave to me. Haven't gotten anything back yet, but I hope something does.

Finally, we already have some reviews for SA! A Spanish blogger wrote about SA (my sister's currently on translating duty), and we have another review from INSERT DATA LINK HERE. Check them out!

Life is good. :)

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: The release. I'm an author. :)

Like 2: The book release party. See above.

Like 3: The review. It makes my book sound so good.

Like 4: Birthday shopping with my grandmother. Me and my sisters have a tradition of doing this around our birthdays. Since I wasn't home for mine, I got to do it now, and now have some beautiful new cloths.

Dislike 1: It's getting cold. And I hate pointless cold. If there's snow on the ground, it's not pointless, but there is no snow, now is there?

And quote!

"Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming." -John Wooden

Bye,
Colleen

Sunday, December 1, 2013

IT'S COMING!!!!

Oh my gosh it's almost here!

This Tuesday is, of course, THE BIG DAY!! I'm so excited, but so nervous. There's going to be family friends and school friends all coming...I hope everyone will have a good time. Meanwhile, we're looking up food recipes and finishing up the final details. Here's hoping for a good night!

And for the last time, don't forget to come to the SWAMP ANGEL release party on Dec. 3rd, at 6:30 pm at Mysteryscape! Hope to see a lot of people there!

Weekly (Dis)Likes

Like 1: Thanksgiving. Yum. And do you know that Thanksgiving and Hanukkah fall on the same day once every 79,000 years?

Like 2: My aunt and her family came visiting. So fun to see them all!

Like 3: My grandmother from Arizona is visiting as well. What a cool lady.

Like 4: Winter break started! Time to kick back and relax (mostly).

Dislike 1: Wasn't even home for a day, and I got an email from one of my future professors telling us already what books to get and 'recommending' that we should start reading. -_- It's called vacation for a reason.

Dislike 2: Mom giving me a new mission; basically, start checking out the employment office and basically signing up for all the interviews they offer. I know it's important if I want to get a job out from college and practice interviewing skills, but what's the point of interviewing for a job that you don't want or you don't have the qualifications to do? A English major can't work in, say, engineering for a company looking only for hands-on workers.

And quote!

"It is well to read everything of something, and something of everything." -Joseph Brodsky

See you at the party!

Colleen

Sunday, November 24, 2013

About Done

Hi, everybody.

Slow week this week. The interview I talked about last time didn't happen thanks to conflicts, and though I've both emailed and called the interviewer at the Communications Office, I haven't gotten a reply yet. Thankfully according to the first email she sent, if conflicts came up, we could have the interview in January when I come back from Christmas, so since we haven't worked out another time for this week, I guess it'll be then.

And another surprise; those who pre-ordered SA are getting their books early! My Facebook page is swamped (excuse the pun) with people posting images of their open packages proclaiming that they got it and how proud they are of me. Odd, but I'm not complaining. :)

Don't forget to come to the SWAMP ANGEL release party on Dec. 3rd, at 6:30 pm at Mysteryscape! Hope to see a lot of people there!

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: My finals are done, and I believe I did well! I get to go home Tuesday.

Like 2: Thanksgiving is this week. Bring on the pie!

Like 3: Finally found the source of the draft that was freezing my dorm room. My roommate though her half of the windows were closed (we're in bunk beds, her on top), but it turns out both were slightly open. But now they're closed and I'm no longer cold.

Dislike 1: The cold. I find it rather pointless if there's no snow on the ground to keep it cold.

Dislike 2: No interview. :(

And quote!

"A good laugh is sunshine in the house." -William Makepeace Thackeray

Bye,
Colleen

Saturday, November 16, 2013

Interview!

Hi everybody!

Again, another week missed thanks to photo-editing work in the lab, this time for my final portfolio. But here I am with big news!

Just yesterday I got an email from Knox's Office of Communications, asking to do an interview for their Knox website page! I sent an email back saying I could do it Monday afternoon, but they haven't replied yet (no one does on the weekend). Either way, look forward to seeing a link to that page. :)

And the reason why this interview came about is my second bit of news. A few days ago I got an email from a member of the Knox Alumni Council, specifically a member from Kansas! She invited me to join the LinkedIn community for Knox Alumni (which I did), and was invited to take advantage of the alumni system on campus. Not only that, but she and some other Kansas alumnis are going to show up at the release party! If this was thanks to Mom (she said she'd try to contact the alumni), thank you!

Don't forget to come to the SWAMP ANGEL release party on Dec. 3rd, at 6:30 pm at Mysteryscape! Hope to see a lot of people there!

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: Term is almost over! Christmas break is almost here. And with Christmas break come the RELEASE PARTY!!!

Like 2: The field trip I went on with my religious studies class yesterday. We all hopped on a bus and drove up to the Quad Cities to check out a Greek Orthodox Church and attend a prayer service at a mosque, and had Q and A sessions with both their leaders. Very interesting and informative, and I now feel greater understanding towards other faiths.

Like 3: The portfolio I'm coming up with for my digital photojournalism class. I have photos from all sorts of photoshoots, including a bunch I took during the field trip in Chicago.

Dislike 1: The incident that happened last Friday in the student lounge. It's nothing major, but when it was time for me to change shifts, the next guy didn't show up. Apparently, he'd gone to a Knox football game off campus and hadn't bothered to tell me or anyone, since the next few hours were still assigned to him according to the Taylor Lounge time chart, and NO ONE had bothered taking his hours. I almost had a panic attack and had to close the lounge down. Not fun. -_-

And quote!

"When I say to you, 'There is nobody like me, and there never was', that is a statement I want every woman person to feel and make about themselves." -Lady Gaga

Bye,
Colleen

Saturday, November 2, 2013

Not Much to Say

Hi, everybody!

I know I skipped a week. I was busy last weekend with editing 15 photos for my big journalism project, so I was out in the digital photo lab a lot. Not that anything big happened last week, or this week for that matter.

Don't forget to come to the SWAMP ANGEL release party on Dec. 3rd, at 6:30 pm at Mysteryscape! Hope to see a lot of people there!

As I was telling everyone last time, I had an agent before my current one, who had to bow out due to personal problems. Sad and frustrated, I nevertheless started looking for a new agent. I found a site, publishersmarketplace.com, that gave me profiles to multiple agents. I basically went down the line with queries.

And then I found Leticia Gomez, head of Savvy Literary Services and mostly a representative for Latino writers. I sent her the usual query, and she was interested. So I sent her some more material, and she liked SA even more. The next thing I knew, she was sending me her contract. We've been working together ever since; right now she's trying to market two more manuscripts of mine alongside working with other people. In a non-couple sense, we're very happy together. :)

Bi-Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: HALLOWEEN!!! One of the best holiday's ever. Spent mine snug in my bed nomming on care package candy and watching Youtube videos. Very nice.

Like 2: Candy. Yummmmm.

Like 3: Because I'm in an art class, I got to go on the semester art department field trip to Chicago with other art students and four other photo students. Spent most of the day looking at amazing photos, then spent the rest of it taking photos and trying to find an Old Navy where I could spend the gift card I got for my birthday. I didn't, but I got some good photos to include in my final portfolio.

Like 2: Only two and a half weeks til Christmas break (and two and a half weeks closer to the SA release).

Dislike 1: We had to change our weekly project meeting for my Contemporary Lit class to Sunday from Friday because a member got sick. So not only do I have to go to 9 am Mass tomorrow (too early!), I'll have work to do that I could've done today on top of my Sunday photo sessions. Hopefully it'll be easy to do and not too time consuming.

And quote!


Bye,
Colleen

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Things are Happening

Hello readers!

The party is underway. Date and time have been chosen, Mom's thinking up a menu, and now it's time to start sending out the invites! So for all you readers, come join us for the release party from 6:30 to 8:30 on December 3rd at Mysteryscape at 7309 West 80th Street, Overland Park, KS 66204. And until the event, I'm going to keep posting this as a weekly friendly reminder.

Plan wise, I'm suffering from a little confusion as to how to get the books to Mysteryscape. Rich has clarified well how the shop can order them, but when I first stopped by Mysteryscape, I got a potential contract from them about book carrying and whatnot, and I want Rich to look over it. But the contract's at home, so I need my mother to scan/email it to him so we can get this all worked out with Mysteryscape's owner. But everything will be cleared up. I know it!

Remember how last week I told you about my first agent? Her name was Carol, and she was out of New Jersey. She liked Swamp Angel, and together we managed to get a lot of rewriting done. But then her husband died, and in the end she just couldn't continue working on my book and went on an indefinite hiatus. I understood (how couldn't I?), but all the same it was still very discouraging. I was upset, but then I went back to work, trolling publisherwarehouse.com looking for another agent. And not long after that, I found Leticia.

Weekly (Dis)Likes

Like 1: Finished the book I had to read for my literature class. That's out of the way!

Like 2: Being ahead on the big project for Photojournalism. We have to document an activity on campus, and I already have shot a bunch of photos from my roommate's Improv club meetings. Between that and the show this week, there's bound to be 15 good photos in there.

Dislike 1: Portraiture project in Photojournalism. This involves taking pictures of strangers, which means TALKING to strangers, and that's just all kinds of bad for me. Granted, I got all my shooting done yesterday, and everyone was very nice about it, but it was still really awkward for me the whole time.

Dislike 2: The Internet is out at my dorm. I'm currently typing this from the library because some dumb mice apparently nibbled up the wireless Internet cord in some of the dorms, INCLUDING mine, and it won't be til Monday at the earliest when the computer guys can fix it. >_<

Dislike 3: Laundering bedsheets. It's something you need to do every once in a while, but I hat it because even if you lightly pack the dryer, the thick blanket STILL comes out wet. I have to dry said blanket 3 times in the dryer so it's not wet. Bye bye precious quarters! | P

And quote!

"Humor is mankind's greatest blessing." -Mark Twain
Humor is mankind's greatest blessing.

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/#MbIdQg6XSEZuVri0.99

Tally-ho,
Colleen

Sunday, October 13, 2013

More Party Plans

Greeting folks! How are you?

Plans for the party are developing well. We've confirmed a time and a date: it's Dec. 3rd from 6-8 pm. There will be food: Mom's in charge of the menu (which means it's going to be delicious!). Some details we're still working out are how Mysteryscape is going to order my books and how much to order (my grandmother wants to buy 100), but we're getting there. As more things are planned, I'll tell you all all about them. Stay tuned!

It took a lot of time to find an agent.
Seriously, it did. Once the manuscript was finished, I did everything I could to find a person who could help make my dream a reality. It wasn't easy; finding them involved weeding through Google searches and then receiving rejection after rejection for about a year. I even ordered a giant book of publishing/ writing information and sent out a letter to everyone they listed, to no avail. When you get one after the other, you can't help but wonder if your work is good enough for publication or not. But then you suck it up, send out another letter, and tell yourself whoever rejected you is missing out on something great (after all, J.K. Rowling was rejected a bunch before being published; bet all those companies feel PRETTY stupid right about now).

Basically, just don't give up on what you want to do with your life. If you love it enough, it's worth going through whatever you have to to make it real. Look where I am now because I didn't give up. :)

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: I got an A+ on my religious studies test! Yay!
Like 2: I also got an A on my first project for my digital photojournalism class. Double yay!
Like 3: My birthday's coming up. Can't wait to celebrate and open my presents!

Dislike 1: Got my final project for my Contemporary Lit class. Nothing bad-read a book, read an article about said book, write a summary about said article, and do a group presentation to the class- but who likes projects like that when they have other homework/stuff they could do?
Dislike 2: My sore throat and stuffy nose. I've been resting, drinking fluids, and taking medicine, so hopefully it won't last much longer, but it still stinks.

Weekly Quote!

“Not all those who wander are lost.” -J. R. R. Tolkien

Bye-bye,
Colleen

Sunday, October 6, 2013

Party Planning

Waga baga baga baga baga!

Again, not much happening this week. Biggest thing I can probably talk about is that my mother and I have started planning the release party for Swamp Angel. All we have so far is a date (December 3rd, the day the book comes out) and a possible location (though it hasn't been confirmed yet). Said location is one of the independent bookstores I gave bookmarks to, Mysteryscape. I've sent a email to the owner asking it about it, even saying how my family will be willing to provide the food, but I haven't gotten an answer yet. Will tell you when I do, though, along with the developing party plans.

Being a student when I started writing, I had classes and homework to worry about. So instead of writing five pages a day (the average for a full time writer), I settled for half a page, and still do with my college studies. I try to type it in the morning because I feel less inspired and tired in the afternoon. With Swamp Angel, I'd work on my quota before school started and finished whatever was left later, typing it out on the laptop my high school gave each student for the year. Being seventeen at the time, I had my license and could drive me and my sister to school, but mostly I made her drive the twenty so minutes so I could have more time to write. ;P

Weekly Dis(Likes)

Like 1: The season Fall. It's my favorite.

Dislike 1: My religious studies test tomorrow. I studied for it, but you can't help but be nervous.

Dislike 2: Barely any sun this weekend, leaving me unable to take photos for my journalism class.

"We cannot teach people anything; we can only help them discover it within themselves." -Galileo Galilei

Ciao,
Colleen

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Writer's Tip #14

olleh, ydobyreve!

So no real book news this week, other than we're starting to plan the unveiling party for the book (still need to figure out the proper date for it). You know what that means: a Writer's Tip! I actually managed to think up another one (but I seriously wasn't kidding when I said I'm running low on them; if you have an idea, please share it!).

This tip considers the error of inconsistent technology! Huh? Basically, for all those fantasy/ sci writers out there, don't mix different eras of technology together unless you have a good reason to. I'll actually post from the source I got this tip from (user MetalMagpie at deviantart.com):

"If the people of your fantasy world have invented the hand-axe, then they have technology. And if they have technology, then you need to worry about keeping it consistent.
 

This doesn't mean you have to accurately represent a particular historical time and place in your alternate-world sword-and-sorcery yarn. (Although that's a good start if you're not sure.) It just means paying attention to the rough order that various technologies tend to be invented in.

A possible place to start: In your fantasy world, have black powder weapons (cannons, muskets, etc.) been invented yet? Well, cannons first reached Europe (having been used in China for ages) in the 1200s. So if they haven't appeared in your fantasy world yet, then that puts down a rough marker of the sort of technology level you're talking about.

For example, it would be highly surprising for a world without black powder to have hay bales in its fields, as the hay-baler wasn't invented until the 1850s (over six-hundred years after the appearance of cannons). That would be a civilisation that has invented heavy machinery, but has completely failed to discover that a rough mix of charcoal and saltpetre (a chemical easily extractable from human urine) will explode violently when lit."



So as she said, watch out for the way technology works in your story world to make sure everything makes sense (unless your story world is completely out there, then I think you're safe). It basically also describes how smart your people are and also on what sort of technology they focus on (because really? Heavy machinery over simple gunpowder?). Of course, if you're writing historical fiction, than technology DOES matter and you have to pay closer attention. Not so with fantasy, and maybe even less with sci-fi, because there you can actually make stuff up! Which could lead to another tip, but I'll save that for the next time I don't have news to report.


Weekly (Dis)Likes:


Like 1. Learning to use Photoshop in Photojournalism. It's so cool! Kinda hard to remember what does what, but our professor's nice enough to give out instruction sheets, we have a very detailed textbook, and there's work time/help sessions Sunday nights.


Like 2. That IRONSIDE show coming out. Saw the previews and it looks like it's worth a shot. How many other shows feature a cop in a wheelchair?


Like 3. My iPhone. I forgot to say, but before I went back to school and got an iPhone 4 (goodbye flip top!). I love it very much, and have already loaded a bunch of apps on it and have used to phone home. I'm glad to have it.


Dislike 1: Apparently the building where the digital photo lab is is locked on the weekends, so unless I go for the Sunday night help sessions, I basically can't do my Photojournalism homework over the weekend. Not that that's too bad; I only have one class Mon Wed Fri, so I can fit the hours in then, but still! :P


And quote!


"Do not go gentle into that good night, 
but Rage, rage against the dying of the light." -Dylan Thomas



Bye,
Colleen

Sunday, September 22, 2013

What's to Say?

Jambo jam! (I'm running out of greetings again.)

Hi Internet. It's been another week since last post. And I'm afraid not much has happened since then. One interesting bit is that the owner from one of the independent bookstores contacted me about a possible event. Haven't made anything official, but I will keep Mysteryscape in mind, and make an event as soon as I can.

Not much else. What do you write about on a blog when you have nothing to write about? (This is a serious question; go ahead and respond through the comment box). Because I don't know. I would actually put a a Writer's Tip if I had no news to share, but I'm running out of those too. (Another thing you can supply me with!)

Did I ever tell you guys how SA came about, by the way? It came to me through a song title from the band Story of the Year. I'd gotten it as an early present back when I was in high school, and I was listening to it, and their song 'Angel in the Swamp' came on. If you listen to the lyrics, you'll hear it's a song about an abusive relationship, but it was the title that got me. I was thinking, "What would a real swamp angel be like?" And after some more thinking, I cracked open my laptop and started banging out the first few words.

Five years later, here we are. :)

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: Talking to myself. People think you're crazy if you do this, but frankly I think you're crazy if you DON'T do this.

Like 2: Getting through my first full week of college. Nine more to go!

Like 3: Snuggling under my blankets on a cold morning. Did this today; it was fabulous.

Like 4: Pope Francis' epic speech about abortion and gay rights. I knew there was a reason I liked the guy!

Dislike 1: Not having enough time during the day. There's so much to do, so much Internet to surf and Youtube to watch!

Quote!


Cheerios,
Colleen

Sunday, September 15, 2013

Back to School

Hi everybody!

Again, a two week break, but it was an important break! The reason I couldn't post was because I was moving back to college for my senior year. There was stuff to move and do, and I really didn't have the time to post anything (not that anything exciting had happened in the first place). But now I do, and now I have time, and considering I'm taking easier classes this term than last, I shouldn't have to put this on hold again. :)

So, for news, I've officially distributed most of the bookmarks SHP sent me. The majority was sent to Joseph Keehn, who's the library's go-to person for authors and promotions for all the libraries of Johnson County. So if you want one (and you're still in Kansas), go to your local library. Some other bookmarks were given to my grandmother to send to a friend of hers out of state. Apparently she has some kind of book club, and this is a good way to spread publicity that's not at home. Go Grandma!

Some other news is an email I received from Angela Parks, the teen librarian for the Olathe Public Library. She actually offered some book review and author websites where I can look over and request reviews and advice from. Haven't gotten any responses yet, but for the big site, voya.com, Rich says we can spare two copies of SA for them to look over. Haven't received anything back from the authors yet, but will tell you what they say.

Bi-Weekly (Dis)Likes

Like 1: I'm back at Knox. My home away from home!

Like 2: My classes. I'm taking a religious study course (I already like my professor for that class), Digital Photojournalism, and Modern Fiction. All very interesting, and all together not as difficult sounding as last term.

Like 3: My roommate. Her name's Lara, and though we haven't talked a lot because we're both quiet people, we get along just fine.

Dislikes

Dislike 1: The return of homework, assignments, and general stress. Like I said, the classes aren't as difficult as last term, so there shouldn't be as much stress,  but you can't help worrying. :P

Dislike 2: There's no bike rack around my dorm, so now my poor bike's down in the basement because apparently it's hurting someone to keep it in the front room, and I have to drag it up the stairs every time I want to use it. -_-

And quote:


Bye for now,
Colleen

Sunday, August 25, 2013

Business Calls

Ello-hay eople-pay! (Hooray for pig latin!)

So not a lot happening this week ... except for my first talk with SHP's marketing manager! Her name's Cindi, and she was super nice and really explained how the marketing is going to work for my book. Don't know if I can necessarily tell you all everything, but here's some things. We're looking for bookstores and libraries who can host book events, as well as looking into who can read the book and give it really good reviews! Cindi also gave me a little research homework of looking into others things, like finding other bloggers who could do interviews and things like that. Why couldn't homework be like this in high school?

These are just a few hints on what's going to happen from now until SA is published. Like I said, I can't tell you everything, but all will be gradually revealed as we start counting down to publication. :)

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: The talk with Cindi. Having it with her is just making this all the more real to me, and what can come from all this. Haven't cried tears of joy yet, but they'll come soon enough.

Like 2: Don't really know if this counts as a like, but my sister is jetting off to Ecuador! She's studying abroad there, and it sounds like lots of fun (Machu Picchu, Galapagos, and lots of fish to eat!). Still, can't help but worry a little about the flight there and the stay, so prayers for her safety will be appreciated. Have a safe trip, Al!

Like 3: Dinner with the grandparents. Had the most delicious tuna with the best of company. ^_^

Like 4: Mail surprises. Got a bookmark and a letter from my sister's friend's family. Thank you, Kubickis!

Dislike 1: The tub faucet. The tub faucet broke earlier last week. You'd turn it completely off, but water would still be coming out and making this high-pitched noise like a whistling kettle. We had the plumber over to get it fixed, but just this morning it broke AGAIN. I don't wanna think about the water billing coming at the end of the month. >_<

Dislike 2: The mountain of laundry in my closet. Really need to do something about that...

Quote:


Ye-bay Ye-bay,
Colleen

Sunday, August 18, 2013

Bookmark Express

Zippy-de-do-da, zippy-de-day
Blog entery's a-comin' your way!

See? Told you I'd keep my promise. Would've actually posted something yesterday, but I was busy with what I have to report for today.

Basically, I borrowed a car and my dad for the day and drove around to somewhat local bookstores and libraries to see if I could leave SA bookmarks to promote the book. I hit about five place, four bookstores and a library, and most of them said yes. One of them, however, (and here I go into ranting, get off my chest mode) said no, and it wasn't even the library (which didn't say 'yes' but at least gave me the branch director's contact info to ask if it was okay). No, it was an independent bookstore about an hour away from the two first stops (which were good) whose front desk person didn't let me leave the bookmarks because I told her the book was available for preorder on Amazon and she didn't want to help 'support the compitition'. What excuse is that!? All I was doing was trying to promote a book, and she seemed okay with it until I dropped the preorder thing, then it was like I flipped the off switch. She even knew how far I'd driven to see her shop because I said where I came from, and she still wouldn't take them. Not that she was mean about it, but still. Even Dad agreed that she was over the line in saying that, because the Amazon thing is for those who can't get it from their local bookstore! Jeez! No more Book Barn in Leavenworth for me.

The other three stops at the independent stores were better. I actually got the email of one store's owners who likes to keep track of local author's books (and a possible event), and I received possible consignment deals and an author event from another. All in all, very well worth it. So were the other libraries and bookstores I hit on the expeditions before this one.

Weekly (Dis)Likes

Like 1: The bookstores I went to. Won't say what, but give your local independent bookstores some love!

Like 2: My job. I really do like it, and the fact I got a free day this week doesn't hurt. :)

Like 3: Books in general. There is no such thing as too many books (and I'd like to see anyone try to argue that with me).

Like 4: Netflix. So many good TV series, so much work to do!

Like 5: Friend's mom telling me she was going to preorder a copy of SA this afternoon. What's not to be happy about?

Dislike 1: Book Barn desk clerk. Read above for why.

Dislike 2: Bug bites. There is a reason why I don't like eating dinner outside. -_-

Dislike 3: Talking to said clerks at libraries and bookstores. I know it has to be done, but it still makes me so nervous!

Quote of the Week:


Pip pip cheerio,
Colleen

Saturday, August 10, 2013

I'm Back (Again)

I know, my public. I'd said I was back, and then I end up being gone the whole month of July due to a mixture of no Internet access, internship work, and summer laziness (enjoy it while you can before going back to school!). But now I'm here, and a lot of stuff has happened since my last post. So much, I think I'll combine it with my Weekly (Dis)Like to make The List of Good and Bad Stuff that Happened While I was gone (not as catchy, but it'll work).

1. Book stuff first, and the biggest was getting my bogey copy of SA. Basically it's the manuscript printed in book format before its officially done, and it looked great. Most importantly, it felt great holding it IN MY HANDS for the first time ever.

2. Just recently got a box in the mail of a whole bunch of SA professional promotional bookmarks. I'm planning to try and get around to as many libraries and bookstore, independent and big, and ask if I can leave them a little pile. It's rather nerve-racking, but it's all going to pay off if it brings more popularity to my book.

3. Rewrote SA's manuscript for hopefully the last time. It is possible to get sick of your own book, as I've discovered. :P Hopefully I won't have to do it again.

4. I've also been working on my elevator prompt for my next book, BURN IN LIGHT, a story involving ghosts and exorcists. Me and my family friend/editor have been working on it for a few weeks. It's longer than it should be because of all the details in the story line, but Leticia says it's okay. Can't wait to send it to her.

5. Speaking of sending, finally managed to mail most of the promotional bracelets I made for SA giveaways. Hoped Rich likes them.

6. SA has been officially tested by the young adult crowd. My aunt's family came in for a week for a visit, and my two cousins (15 and 12) got to read the bogey copy. Both of them said it was very good (and they weren't just saying that because I'm their cousin). So it seems the crowd it's intended for likes it!

7. Life is good at the internship. I think I told you about that? Anyway, the work is good, the people are better, and I've really learned what it's like to working in a publishing company. Couldn't have asked for a better internship.

8. I had an interview with a recruiting head at a big publisher based in Kansas City. I was very nervous, but Micky was very nice, and I did a wonderful job and I was very proud of myself. He also was interested in SA as well. I hope I can get a job in the publisher once I graduate from college (he really made it sound like I had a chance).

And that's everything that's been happening. Book wise, I finished GOTH GIRL RISING, as well as another book, PLAYING WITH THE BOYS. GOTH GIRL was better to me because I liked the characters more; Kyra was kick-ass and sometimes I wish I could be as brave as she is. Not that PLAYING was bad. It's about a girl who makes her school's football team, and it was interesting to read it from a feminist point of view. Why can't girls play football, right? I just wish the author could've gone into that a little bit more.

Now I'm reading PSYCH-MAJOR SYNDROME, where the main character, Leigh, is a psychology college student trying to deal with personal problems. Roommate Ami is the best, but maybe that's because we're both studying art. But she is cool, unlike Leigh's jerk boyfriend Andrew. As for Leigh herself, a lot of her habits are weird (like super procrastinating on a paper), but she seems nice enough.

All right, that's all. I WILL BE BACK next week with another post, and I mean it. I'll make my mother watch me over my shoulder if I have to. And quote!


Bye-bye,
Colleen

Saturday, June 15, 2013

I'm on Amazon!



Hail, lords and ladies!

Again, sorry for not posting last week. Still trying to get back into the swing of things now that I don't have a tsunami of homework at my back, so I'll get back to the weekly schedule eventually.

Big news this week. First and foremost, I'm on Amazon! That's right, you can now pre-order your copy of SWAMP ANGEL online. So what are you still doing reading this?! Go buy now at:

http://www.amazon.com/Swamp-Angel-Colleen-Boyd/dp/1937053768/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1371334971&sr=8-2&keywords=swamp+angel

Also, cover reveal! Isn't it gorgeous? So professional!



I also received the uncorrected proof this week. I have the actual book in my hands, people! Now to go through it and point out all the stuff that needs fixing/adding/removing.

Finally, we got event planning going on! Mom's pointed out a lot of event we can arrange for book promotion through my high school, college, and a couple of local book stores. Email Rich about it, and he gave the go ahead. Time to start cracking!

Finally, Leticia the agent is almost ready to start promoting my second book. Just need to work on the story summery and we'll be all good.

Now for the Bi-Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: Summer vacation. Need I say more?

Like 2: My internship. I got one for this summer (thank you Knox internship program) and I'm really liking it so far. It's in the marketing department in a small local publishing house that specializes in autistic literature, and it's going really great. My coworkers are wonderfully nice, and the pay and hours are good. Couldn't ask for a better job.

Like 3: Half-Price Books. Used book store that I love. Went there this week to sell my school books from this term, and got some nice new stuff in return.

Like 4: Got my grades back for the spring term. All A's! Hard work really does pay off.

New Section! Book of the Week will tell you what I'm currently reading, and when I finish it, I'll give it a review. 
This Week: GOTH GIRL RISING by Barry Lyga

And quote!

"Always believe in yourself. Do that, and no matter where you are, you'll have nothing to fear." 
-Baron Humbert von Gikkingen, The Cat Returns

Bye, 
Colleen

Saturday, June 1, 2013

I'm Back!!

Hello passengers, this is your captain speaking. We are prepared for liftoff.

So... it's been a while, hasn't it? Haven't written since March, apparently. And I'm REALLY sorry that I haven't posted anything and went on hiatus without telling you guys. The reason? I signed up for very time-consuming classes this term, two being three hundred levels with a whole lot of reading and an art course that demanded five to six hours worth of work outside of classes. I'm bee working really hard to stay on top of everything, which is why I haven't been writing. But it's almost summer break; school's over for me June 4th, and I have all my final stuff done, so now I finally can have free time without feeling guilty about it!

Lots of news to report. First, we've basically finished the cover. It's pretty close to official, so when I get the okay I'll post it here. It's really beautiful and I love how it turned out.

Secondly is I finished making all the swag promotional gear. Had to squeeze in some hours where there weren't any, but now there's a bunch of bracelets ready to be sent out.

Lastly, the book's been falling together. Me and Rich have been looking over the manuscript for mistakes and rewrites, among other things, and soon enough there's going to be some official unpublished practice copies made. Can't wait to get my hands on one of those and see what it'll look like in almost perfect book form.

Not really doing a Weekly (Dis)Like (since that would be a lot of weeks to cover), but I'll share the important stuff. Mainly being I got an internship! It's at a small publishing company in my hometown, and I'm really excited to work there. Summer's finally here, my junior year is ending, and I can't wait for three months of no school. YAY!

And quote!

"All the breaks you need in life wait within your imagination. Imagination is the workshop of your mind, capable of turning mind energy into accomplishment and wealth." --Napoleon Hill

I'll be back,
Colleen

Saturday, March 16, 2013

Big Cover Work and Swag

Good day to you all.

Have big news for this week. First, we're (Rich and Me) narrowing down on swag items to promote SA. He made a really good suggestion that I like and has my full approval. Won't say what it might be so there's a surprise, but if everything works out, I think it will be very popular.

The second big thing is more cover work. Me and the cover team actually have some basic compositions worked out, and are now discussing what to work on with them. Nothing is set in stone (and I don't think I can post any images here), but we are getting closer to finally having a proper face for SA instead of the cover I drew for it (it's not that bad, is it?).

That's it for now. Weekly (Dis)Likes!

Like 1: Survived my Art History II final. Now I only have to attend a couple more meetings and I'll be done.

Like 2: Going skiing in Vale.

Dislike 1: Am not looking forward to getting up early to get to the airport so I can get to Vale.

Weekly Quote:


Bye,
Colleen

Sunday, March 10, 2013

Writer's Tips #13

Aloha, islanders and those who live elsewhere!

Haven't heard from Rich or anyone about the cover or the story, so here's Writer's Tip, number thirteen (cross your fingers for good luck). Got the idea from Kate Kayak, who's the Head Editor at SHP.
If you're a writer under contract, don't share personal book info, write cruel reviews of other people's books, and don't respond to negative critiques about your own books.

Hopefully this type of comment doesn't fall under this, but she has a point. For all inspiring writers, don't post the following because it can damage whatever publisher you're working under and possibly break contracts doing so, not to mention it's just common sense not to post personal stuff online. It can also hurt your publisher, your book sales, and you if you're rude about other people's work, so be nice about sharing your opinions. And finally, don't respond to negative book reviews for the reason above. As I've probably said before, you can't please everyone with your writing and there's going to always be critics. The best thing you can do is ignore and keep writing to make something that they will like.

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: Finished my Art History term paper, my poetry collaboration, and my poetry portfolio. That's one final and two big project down.

Like 2: Care package from Mom, filled with yummy non sweet snacks. Thank you!

Like 3: New season of NBC's Grimm. Love that show, and it'll be nice to actually watch it again instead on reading episode summaries (could not watch Season Two over in Scotland, and I have no time to watch them online right now because of school).  

Like 4: Spring Break is coming up, and I'm going skiing! I've been doing it since I was six, and I love it, being one of the few sports I'm actually good at.

Dislike 1: Art History II test final. Blaggggh. :P

Dislike 2: Studying for Art History II test final. Blaggggh again. :P

And quote!

SI Vis Pacem, Para Bellum. (If you want peace, prepare for war.) -Latin Proverb

Cheerio,
Colleen

Sunday, March 3, 2013

Interview and Cover News

Hello readers of this lovely blog. Did you miss me?

Got some news for you all. First, my first blog interview about books and TSA is now posted! Go to http://readingawaythedays.blogspot.co.uk/2013/02/interview-colleen-boyd.html to read it RIGHT NOW!!!

In other news, this week, Rich the editor introduced me to Lisa, SHP's cover artist. Yep, more cover work! She gave me this author form to fill out with images and book blurbs and important symbols in the book with some other questions (Do you want Ivy/Rylan/both on the cover? Is there an iconic scene/object/location you'd like to show? Are there book covers you know of that you think are in the same vein as what you'd like for Swamp Angel?), and somehow we're going to cobble them all together into a book cover. So far we've decided with a more 'natural' cover,

'something somewhat "organic" for this book, not something overly slick or produced. A bit rough around the edges and natural... fuzzy edges, misty/foggy background, soft focus, nothing shiny...the tree, and the swamp angel, and the boy, with the swamp and the tree visible. Perhaps an alligator tail visible in the swampy water in the background.  Maybe a swamp boat,' as Rich said.

Sounds promising to me. Hopefully it'll all work together into something great and not end up like a cover you see on every other YA book. Will keep you all informed about what goes on.

Now here's the Week (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: Getting work done ahead of time. I got my final portfolio done for my poetry class (due March 16th), and my rough draft for my final paper for Art History is complete. If I don't have to rewrite much, that'll be completely done soon, which gives me time to focus on other finals.

Like 2: My dad visited me this week. Brought me a care package and my beloved Copics and colored pencils. He saw my dorm, we had dinner at my favorite restaurant here, and we went to the movies. It was a good time.

Like 3: Warm Bodies. That was the movie I saw with Dad, and I loved it. It was really good (just as the reviews promised), and now I really want to buy the book and read it.

Like 4: Skyfall. The Union Board here planned a movie night, and that's what I got to watch. Because of technical difficulties, the movie start a half hour after it was supposed to start, but it was still very good. Adele totally deserved her Oscar.

Like 5: Went to my college's play this term, The Green Bird. A little confusing in some parts, but overall everyone did a really good job, and the scenery and costumes were lovely. Very nice.

Dislike 1: Finals. Granted, I only have one test, and I'm done with most of my writing, but I got a big art project for Printmaking, and there's no doubt the test is going to scare me. Blech. :P

And quote:


            “Because we do not know when we will die, we get to think of life as an inexhaustible well. Yet everything only happens a certain number of times, and it’s a small number, really. How many times will you think of a certain afternoon of your childhood? An afternoon so deeply a part of your being you cannot conceive of your life without it? Perhaps four or five times more? Perhaps not even that. How many times will you watch the full moon rise? Perhaps twenty… and yet it all seems limitless.” -Paul Bowles

Bye-bye,
Colleen

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Writer's Tip #12

I'm starting to run out of ways to say hi. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Anyway, hope all my readers are doing well. No news from SHP, so you know what that means. It's a Writer's Tip!

When it comes to signing contracts, whether with an agent or a publishing company, DO read the fine print. You don't want to sign a contract and find yourself stuck in an agreement with no way out. Not that I know of this. When I got the contract with Leticia and Spencer Hill Press, I read over it, but I also sent my mother and father a copy so they could look over it as well. To me, it looked like an ordinary contract, but with their intervention they helped me understand it better than I first did with stuff like pay rate and publishing rights and who owned what and who had right of property and stuff. So if you ever get to the point when your writing getting published and you need to sign something, read over it and don't be afraid to ask questions or other for advice.

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: 'The Lightning Strikes' by Snow Patrol. Long song, but it is so good, the first part especially. Want to listen to it over and over.

Like 2: Got the rough draft of my Art History II mid term paper done. Will fix it up once the teacher sends feedback back, and that'll be one less final to worry about.

Like 3: Naps. Do I have to explain this one?

Like 4: Snow. So white and fluffy. Wish I could play in it, but don't have the time or the snow pants.

Dislike 1: cutting my fingers up. We're doing relief prints in Printmaking now, and I've cut my fingers a couple of times. Nothing bad, but still hurts.

And quote.

"What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal." – Albert Pike

Bye bye,
Colleen

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Agent News

Good day, mates! How are you? Hope every had a happy Valentine's Day.

Not much happening, again. I haven't received any news back about SA or to anything pertaining it, but my fabulous agent Leticia Gomez is doing pretty well:

"I am pleased to announce that I recently formed a joint venture with top CEO and Executive branding firm Ascendant Group (www.ascendantgroupbranding.com) to offer an even greater level of support to aspiring authors.

In partnership with Ascendant, Savvy Literary now offers not only representation but expert help for authors still looking to develop their idea, increase their platform, or have a professional book proposal developed for them. As the newly appointed Director of Ascendant Publishing in association with CEO of Ascendant Group, Raoul Davis, one of the best brand marketing experts in the country, together, we are able to provide exceptional brand marketing, publishing consultant, and literary representation services guaranteed to increase an aspiring author's platform via national media, social media, and other vehicles that drive the decisions for so many of the best publishers."

Good for her. Leticia is a nice lady, and she deserved something like this with all the hard work she does for me and her other clients. Who knows? Maybe this new business deal will help out the other book manuscripts I'll send in to Leticia. :)

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: Tumblr. I have recently discovered it, and I LOVE it!

Like 2: The Valentine's Day ecard my mom sent me. Cupid chimpanzee!

Like 3: Deciding my classes for next term. Met with my advisor and talked it over. I'll tell you what's what when it's certain.

Dislike 1: My art analysis paper. It's not due until the end of term, but I feel like it's a ghost haunting me.

And quote!

Life asked Death, "Why do people love me but hate you?" Death responded, "Because you are the Beautiful Lie and I am the Painful Truth.” -Neil Gaiman


Bye,
Colleen

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

New Interview Time

Hi kiddies!
I'm late, and I'm sorry. Blame the midterm paper I had to write for my Art History class. But now it's done, and I can talk to you all again.

Anyway, I have a little news to share. Remember Megan McDade and how I did an interview for her blog Reading Away the Days? It was supposed to be posted on January 17th, but it wasn't, and I recently found out why. Apparently she was gone from her computer for a long period of time, but now she's back and ready to post. It'll be up February 27th here http://readingawaythedays.blogspot.com, so check it out when it's up.


Other than that, not much else. Anyone got any ideas for swag items? I'm still having a hard time coming up with stuff.

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: got a B+ on my Art History midterm test (yes, on top of the paper there was also a test).

Like 2: the printing project I'm doing for my Printmaking class. Basically a giant wooden puzzle that we paint different colors and press.

Like 3: finishing my Art History midterm paper.

Like 4: the current poem I'm working on.

Like 5: no class on Friday.

And quote!

--> "I can only promise you two things. One, I will always look this good. And two, I will never give up on you. Ever." -Hellboy, Hellboy

Bye,
Colleen

Monday, February 4, 2013

Update

Hello readers (and I'm starting to run out of creative greetings). So it's a couple of days; blame my Art History exam which I needed to study for. Took that today, though, so I'm free now!

Got writing news this time! It's nothing too big. Basically Rich the editor saying how he's been busy with other Spencer Hill Press work, but SA is going along fine. He also reported that he sent the book's current draft to their foreign/film rights person: I do not know what that means exactly, but I think it's basically seeing if other countries want to publish it or make it into a movie. Rich also talked about SA swag - promotion items for the book, like pocket mirrors and guitar picks - and how we need to start thinking about that. I know I what to do bookmarks, but other than that, I don't know what object to make. I do know I want to incorporate an ivy leaf motif, and I've ask Rich for item suggestions, so hopefully this will all work out.

And Weekly (Dis)Likes!

Like 1: getting my midterm out of the way. Freedom!

Like 2: the Art department trip. Had a lot of fun at the Art Institute. Did my painting analysis for Art history, saw good art, browsed shops and city-walked. A much needed break.

Dislike 1: taking my midterm. Like I need to explain that.

And Weekly Quote!

"Fall seven times, stand up eight."
-Japanese proverb

Cheers,

Colleen

Sunday, January 27, 2013

Writer's Tip #11

Hello readers. Sorry for being a day late, but yours truly was busy with internship hunting and studying for upcoming midterms.

No news on the writing front (though said internship I'm seeking will be for a publishing house), so I guess we'll go straight for the tip, which is DO.
NOT.
PLAGIARIZE!
Common sense, people. You wouldn't steal cash or jewels or cars ala Grand Theft Auto (and shame on you if you do), so why steal someone's work? It's a lose-lose situation; you get discovered, and your reputation, your writing career, and people's trust in you goes down the toilet, perhaps never to be regained again. Not that I know that this happens, 'cause like a good writer I don't steal someone's work. I admit, when I have trouble writing a scene out, I read other books to see how they play similar situations, but I don't take word for word. And neither should you!

Now Weekly (Dis)Likes.

Like 1: Trip to Chicago on Thursday. In taking art classes, I am eligible to go on the field trip to the Art Institute of Chicago the the whole art department goes on yearly. Hang around, look at art, listen to teachers, and maybe even get some shopping time. Yay!

Like 2: I-Fair. It's this yearly celebration in January at my college where we basically celebrate the world. Our international students make foreign food for lunch and there's a talent show. Wonderful as always.

Like 3: Say I Love You. Comic book series I just discovered, and I love it. Hope to get ahold of first volume soon.

Dislike 1: upcoming midterms. I really only have one, in Art History, but it's a written test and I AM NOT looking forward to it. :P

And quote!
 
When the world says, "Give up," Hope whispers, "Try it one more time." -Author Unknown

So long,
Colleen

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Writer's Tip #10

Good day, boys and girls!

After the action-packed week of last, I have pretty much nothing to report this time. I did finish the interview for Megan McDade; I don't know if she's posted it, but check last week post for the link to her blog.

Writer's Tip for this week is to embrace criticism about your writing. Believe it or not, everything you first write can use some improvements/changes. Even the professionals go through many drafts before coming to the final manuscript (as a professional, I would know). Criticism doesn't mean your work is bad; nothing is unless you want it to be bad. Think of it like a dentist appointment: by yourself you take good care of your teeth, but you always see a professional to get their opinion. Same with writing, and really any type of work. You're going to receive criticism in life no matter what, so you might as well learn to deal with it.

Weekly (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: Cheeze-Its. Yum.
Like 2: My job. I got it back. Basically I watch over the student lounge and rent out gaming equipment. Only work three hours a week, but it's easy cash.
Dislike 1: Falling asleep while doing my homework. Any tips to prevent that?

And weekly quote.
"In times of trouble, adversity, and pain, you may well find to your amazement that you are braver than you know, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” A. A. Milne

Bye,
Colleen

Saturday, January 12, 2013

Radio Reports

Jeez, it's really been a month since I last blogged? So sorry about the lack of posts! Between my finals at St. Andrews, no computer, then lousy internet access, not to mention celebrating the holidays with my family and moving back to my regular college, I've been Busy with a capital B. But I'm back, with lots of news to share.

First, the last few months I was writing the story summery for my second novel manuscript, BURN IN LIGHT, and I've finished. It's now in Leticia's hands, and sooner of later she's going to start selling it out to publishers.

Second, I'm doing a written interview. Megan McDade of the blog Reading Away the Days is interviewing me about SA. It'll be posted on January 17th, so mark your calenders and click this on that day: http://readingawaythedays.blogspot.com

Third, I was on the radio last Wednesday! Not a big channel, though; I was on my school's radio, on a one hour show hosted by one of my friends. It's a interview and music show where my friend the host plays indie music and interviews students about their art and writing. I was interviewed about SA, and hopefully there were some listeners! For those who didn't hear and want to, click this link. The livestream is currently down, but hopefully it'll be back up soon: http://www.knox.edu/student-life/organizations-and-clubs/wvkc-907-fm.html

That's the news! Now to the chunky Months' (Dis)Likes:

Like 1: I'm home, and back at my beloved school!

Like 2: The classes I'm taking: Poetry Workshop, Art History II, and Printmaking I

Like 3: Christmas vacation! The whole family, including grandparents, aunt, uncle, and cousins all went to Florida! We stayed in an awesome hotel (though it had horrible internet access), spent a lot of time at the beach, went seashell hunting, went kayaking, and just basically had a good time.

Like 4: my trip to France. I was still recovering from the flu and we might've stayed in Tours longer than we should've, but me and my sister had a good time in France. Saw the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, one of France's many chateau's, and celebrated Mass in Notre Dame.

Like 5: Christmas presents! Among my favorite is Kingdom Heart 3D for my Nintendo 3DS, a quilted skirt from my aunt, $100 dollar giftcard to Barnes and Noble, and my new pair of black boots. Thanks everybody!

Dislike 1: The trip back home from Scotland. It was AWFUL. Not only did I not get any sleep, I had to get on another plane four hours after I got home to get to Florida.

Dislike 2: The trip to Florida. Some idiot held our plane back long enough that we missed one of our connecting flights in Florida. Thankfully we did get to where we were going.

Dislike 3: Sandy Hook and Newtown, Connecticut. I was in Paris when I actually heard the news, and though I couldn't understand what the news lady was saying, the pictures were enough. I didn't want it to be true but calling my mother confirmed it. They were kids! Six year olds! Who could kill a six year old!? I hate this. I hate guns, I hate violence, and I absolutely hate this country's treatment of guns laws and the mentally ill. Crazies should not get ahold of assult rifles. Those are meant for the army in the first place, not for Walmart to sell. I don't care if it goes against the 2nd Amendment, SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE. Look what happened when nothing was: innocent little kids were killed. Click here to do something about it: http://www.demandaplan.org/Newtown-sc/ckg-srch?gclid=CMTKhPHq47QCFYpFMgod1ikA7A

Sigh. What a month it's been. To cheer you up and inspire, a month's worth of quotes:

"One often meets his destiny on the road he takes to avoid it." -French Proverb

"Peace over anger. Honor over hate. Strength over fear." -The Jedi Code, STAR WARS

"Our greatest glory is not in never failing, but in rising up every time we fail." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

"Men do not differ much about what things they will call evils; they differ enormously about what evils they will call excusable." -GK Chesterton

Ciao!

Colleen