I got my letter last week from Deseret Books. Sadly it was a rejection. I'll admit I was a little disappointed, but I brushed it off. I had hardly expected it to be accepted for publication, after all it is only my first book (not counting the little practice stories I've written over the years)
I understand that most beginning authors who are rejected tend to give up. This was not my case. Actually it made me want to try harder. I originally intended to go back and polish up some stuff. Make it more exciting and all. However when I went back, I found that there were more mistakes and weak plot points than I had thought. I decided to completely rewrite the book.
I went online and found some creative writing tips. After reading them, I discovered more and more big boo-boos in my original story. After reading the tips, I came to the conclusion that Shaken Forever was poorly written with no hook, a weak plot, cruddy dialogue, and especially weak characters. It might sound like I'm only being hard on myself, but I'm being honest. While my book had it's good points, it was mostly a mess. I'm throwing this one into my pile of "Practice Stories" along with The Crossed Swords Series, The Emerald Arrow, and all my unfinished novels.
Taking advice from the writing tips, I began with redeveloping the characters. I won't go into detail, but they have a lot more depth now. After that, I wrote the first few paragraphs of the book (aka the hook) focusing on drawing the readers in. I then proceeded to make a rough outline of the entire story.
I have completely redesigned the book. I now begin the book with Moroni's earlier life. I changed his relationships with other figures such as Amalickiah. I have changed his romantic life drastically. Lastly, I have changed the events leading to his rise as Chief Captain entirely.
I also made changes for potential sequels. Now I am planning on three books. The first one (which I am working on right now) is about Moroni's rise to Chief Captain. The second will be about his issues with Amalickiah. The third will be about his issues with Ammoron. These are prone to change so I will keep you posted. The first is currently titled, Shaken Forever: Chief Captain, but might change.
I am praying that my rewrite will be much better than my original story. You can keep track of my progress by the box on the right. I am going to be more critical of myself on this rewrite. I will be sharing bits and pieces with the public to receive their opinions. I will submit it to a publisher when I am in college. (While in the midst of my research for writing tips, I found that authors have a better chance of their books being accepted if they are at least in the process of getting a college degree.)
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
HB Moore Books
Since Christmas of 2009, I have come across some books called The Book of Mormon Prophet Series. I saw the second book, Alma, while looking through a magazine a few weeks before Christmas. Since we were studying the story of Alma in King Noah's court in seminary, I decided I would like to read the book. I asked for it for Christmas. I was lucky enough to get it. My parents are always happy to give me books. As I started reading the book, I realized that the story began shortly after Abinadi's death. As I continued to read, I got the impression that there was a prequel to the book. I checked an sure enough there was a book called Abinadi. After I finished reading Alma, I asked for Abinadi and was granted the wish shortly after. HB Moore is a very talented writer, using short but vivid descriptions that keeps the story moving. I'd like to add that I DO NOT recommend these books to kids under 12. There are some very intense scenes (BOM violence, lust, etc). This blog post is to review the books she has written (of which I have been fortunate enough to read).
The first book is Abinadi. This book took me off on a whole new perspective of the story I knew so well. It portrayed Abinadi as a young man in his mid-twenties (not the stereo-typical old man that we see in paintings and such). This twist makes Abinadi all the more of a sympathetic character, since his life has only just begun. It immediately grabs you with the first chapter by describing Abinadi's thoughts as he awaits his death sentence in prison. Then story then jumps back to a few years earlier and gives account of all the events leading up to his call to preach and eventual death. The book also follows Alma the Elder's lifestyle as a priest in King Noah's court and his eventual conversion. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good drama, historic fiction, romance, or just an all around captivating book. 5 stars
The second book is Alma. I will say that it does not grab you in the same way that Abinadi did, but it was definitely difficult to put down. It follows Alma the Elder as he forms the church by the Waters of Mormon. Although Alma's story is interesting, the side story with one of King Noah's wives is what really caught me. Almost everything horrible that could possibly happen to a person emotionally and physically, happens to her. Every scene with her, you can't help, but fell anxious for her. I also highly recommend this book to anyone who loves all the things I listed above. This book has a lot more romance in it than Abinadi did. 4.5 stars
The third book is Alma the Younger. I just barely finished this book. I thought the first two were good, but this one completely blows both of them out of the water. It starts with Alma the Elder and his family fleeing for shelter from a mob of non-believers where Alma realizes that the leader of the band is his own son. The book jumps back a few months to Alma the Younger, shortly after he left his home out of anger to live on his own. The book gives a vivid account of Alma the Younger's fall from the church into becoming an extremely wicked and idolatrous man. It is a pretty dark book. Probably the darkest out of all three, but that's why it is so fascinating. Alma the Younger is not a silly teenager that is pulling harmful pranks, he is an intelligent full grown man with many doubts about his father's teachings. There is not a dull moment at all in this book. It keeps you on the edge of your seat at all times. Once again I very highly recommend this book as well as its predecessors. It is a good drama and historic fiction, and (although it is not focused on as much as in the other two) there is a good romance. 5 stars all the way.
I believe it will be the last book in the series, but HB Moore is currently in the process of writing a fourth book called Ammon. It will be about Ammon on his mission to the Lamanites and his life in King Lamoni's court. I'm interested in how she will portray Ammon's life change from a Nephite prince to a Lamanite servant. I can't wait to read it. If it is half as good as the first three, I will be extremely pleased with it.
The first book is Abinadi. This book took me off on a whole new perspective of the story I knew so well. It portrayed Abinadi as a young man in his mid-twenties (not the stereo-typical old man that we see in paintings and such). This twist makes Abinadi all the more of a sympathetic character, since his life has only just begun. It immediately grabs you with the first chapter by describing Abinadi's thoughts as he awaits his death sentence in prison. Then story then jumps back to a few years earlier and gives account of all the events leading up to his call to preach and eventual death. The book also follows Alma the Elder's lifestyle as a priest in King Noah's court and his eventual conversion. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good drama, historic fiction, romance, or just an all around captivating book. 5 stars
The second book is Alma. I will say that it does not grab you in the same way that Abinadi did, but it was definitely difficult to put down. It follows Alma the Elder as he forms the church by the Waters of Mormon. Although Alma's story is interesting, the side story with one of King Noah's wives is what really caught me. Almost everything horrible that could possibly happen to a person emotionally and physically, happens to her. Every scene with her, you can't help, but fell anxious for her. I also highly recommend this book to anyone who loves all the things I listed above. This book has a lot more romance in it than Abinadi did. 4.5 stars
The third book is Alma the Younger. I just barely finished this book. I thought the first two were good, but this one completely blows both of them out of the water. It starts with Alma the Elder and his family fleeing for shelter from a mob of non-believers where Alma realizes that the leader of the band is his own son. The book jumps back a few months to Alma the Younger, shortly after he left his home out of anger to live on his own. The book gives a vivid account of Alma the Younger's fall from the church into becoming an extremely wicked and idolatrous man. It is a pretty dark book. Probably the darkest out of all three, but that's why it is so fascinating. Alma the Younger is not a silly teenager that is pulling harmful pranks, he is an intelligent full grown man with many doubts about his father's teachings. There is not a dull moment at all in this book. It keeps you on the edge of your seat at all times. Once again I very highly recommend this book as well as its predecessors. It is a good drama and historic fiction, and (although it is not focused on as much as in the other two) there is a good romance. 5 stars all the way.
I believe it will be the last book in the series, but HB Moore is currently in the process of writing a fourth book called Ammon. It will be about Ammon on his mission to the Lamanites and his life in King Lamoni's court. I'm interested in how she will portray Ammon's life change from a Nephite prince to a Lamanite servant. I can't wait to read it. If it is half as good as the first three, I will be extremely pleased with it.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Quoting
Those who are so fortunate as to know my family, know that we love to quote stuff. This post is a list of some funny quotes that I could think of.
“No more rhymes now. I mean it!” “Anybody want a peanut?” --The Princess Bride
“Mawige. Mawige is what bwings us togetha towday. Mawige dat bwessed awangement. Dat dweam wiffin a dweam. Wuv twoo wuv wil fow you foeva. Have you da wing?” --The Princess Bride
“How was school?” “Worst day of my life what do you think?” --Napoleon Dynamite
“Napoleon, don’t be jealous that I’ve been chatting online with babes all day.” --Napoleon Dynamite
“A hotdog is singing! You need quiet while a hotdog is singing?” --You’ve Got Mail
“Bippity-boppity BACON!!” --Jim Gaffigan
“Let me show you how it’s done... this is a stupid sport.” --Jim Gaffigan
“The worst is being the worst bowler of the group. Then everyone treats you like you have cancer. ‘You can do it. We’re praying for you.’” --Jim Gaffigan
“‘Why don’t you ever make the bed?’ ‘The same reason I don’t tie my shoes after I take them off. It doesn’t make sense.’” --Jim Gaffigan
“Say 8, say 8, say 8, say 8! Happy 8 day!” --Brian Regan
“Number one, do not stand directly in front of a cannon... how true that is.” --Brian Regan
“Number one, remove pastry from pouch. Oh OK. I see where they’re going with this. We’re banging on all cylinders now. Number two, insert pastry... vertically. Oh oh thpppt!” --Brian Regan
“I always admired the kid that spelled it wrong on purpose just so he could sit down. ‘Cat, K-A-T. I’m out.’ And as he passes you , ‘I know there’s two T’s’” --Brian Regan
“Your head pops off that pillow, ‘Oh no! It’s due today! I had nine months to work on it and I did nothing.” --Brian Regan
“‘What have you got there Brian?’ ‘It’s a cup of dirt. Just put an F on there and let me go home’ ‘Well explain it’ ‘Well it’s a cup with dirt in it. I call it cup of dirt.’” --Brian Regan
“OK that one was a little tougher. He either said we should go to the back of the throat or he wants a root beer float.” --Finding Nemo
“If my parents find out, they’re going to bury me alive and dance on my grave. I’m not exaggerating!... OK yes I am, but not the point.” --Meet the Robinsons
“All young ladies are accomplished. They sing, they draw, they dance, speak French and German, cover screens, and I know not what.” --Pride and Prejudice
“Come Darcy, I must have you dance. I must. I hate to see you standing about in this stupid manner. Come, you had much better dance.” -- Pride and Prejudice
“She is tolerable I suppose. But she’s not handsome enough to tempt me.” --Pride and Prejudice
“It’s so fluffy I’m going to die!!!” --Despicable Me
“My dear, do not give way to such gloomy thoughts. Let us hope for better things. Let us flatter ourselves, that I might outlive you.” --Pride and Prejudice
“Joe Jr.’s still single.” “Yeah it’s a shocker.” --While You Were Sleeping
“The truth was I fell in love with you.” “You fell in love with me?” -- While You Were Sleeping
“You know I can’t swim!” “Hence the BOAT” --The Proposal
“Laugh it up fuzzball” --Star Wars V
“Don’t worry Fred, if he hits you with a knife, boy will I boo him.” --The Flintstones
“Do you know how to use that thing?” “Yes. The pointy end goes into the other man.” --The Mask of Zorro
“‘Have you ever been a victim of a crime?’ ‘Yeah I stole 9 cars, I held 5 people at gunpoint, I--’ ‘No VICTIM!’ ‘Oh victim, no.’” --Brian Regan
“She said my boy I think someday, you’ll find a way to make you natural tendencies pay. You’ll be a dentist! You have a talent for causing things pain.” --Little Shop of Horrors
“You finally got into the music. Do you get my joke? Because your head, it’s in the tuba.” --The Princess and the Frog
“Maybe he’s fat. He’s fat. He’s a fatty.” --You’ve Got Mail
“You know who no do. Whack-a-doo. Ratta-tata hey! Why do they call it that?” “What?” “Ratatouille. It’s like a stew right? Why do they call it that? If you’re going to name a food it should sound delicious. Ratatouille doesn’t sound delicious. It sounds like rat and patootey. Rat-patootey! Which does not sound delicious.” --Ratatouille
“SANTA!!!!!! OH MY GOSH!!! Santa here? I know him! I know him!” --Elf
“In DANGER from TOYS?” --Santa Clause is Coming to Town
“Sink me, you tailors have betrayed you!” --The Scarlet Pimpernel
“I can’t see! I can’t see!” “What’s the matter?” “I got my eyes closed.” --The Three Stooges
“I’ve got a name and it’s a boy’s name too.” --Mulan
“You’re the only human I know that snores while he’s awake.” --Get Smart (2008)
“Ooh-ee-ooh-ah-ah-ting-tang-walla-walla-bing-bang.” --Alvin and the Chipmunks
“Turn off the light” “And sleep in the dark? I couldn’t do that.” “Why not?” “The gollywoggles might get me.” --Get Smart
“How do you solve a problem like Maria?” --The Sound of Music
“Charlie, light a match!” --So I Married an Axe Murderer
“We are dead. Soon we will be dead.” “I always liked my head!” “Soon we will be dead.” --Liken’s Ammon and King Lamoni
“After today, y’all be wearing gold plated diapers.” “What does that mean?” “Do not question Bruce Dickenson!” --SNL, More Cowbell
“Sorry. My men are not used to having a pretty face on board.” “If they like me, wait until they get a load of 99.” --Get Smart
“Here we have the meats drawer and uh what you do with that... you would put meats.” --Brian Regan
“I look handsome, I look smart. I am a walking work of art.” --Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat
“The bunny, the bunny, ooh I love the bunny” --Veggietales, Rack Shack and Benny
“I want a potty. I want a cookie. I want to stay up. I want, I want, I want, me, me, me, me, mine, mine, mine, now, now, now!” --Hook
“I like you... I don’t know why.” --Pride and Prejudice: A Latter-day Comedy
“Elizabeth, we have been commanded to multiply and replenish the earth!” --Pride and Prejudice: A Latter-day Comedy
“I had an interesting experience with a woman in this congregation who will remain anonymous. But for the sake of the story we’ll call her Elizabeth B. No, no E. Bennet.” --Pride and Prejudice: A Latter-day Comedy
“My FAT!!” --Get Smart (2008)
“The king’s stinkin’ son fired me and thank you so much for bringing up such a painful subject. WHile you’re at it, why don’t you get me a nice paper cut and pour lemon juice on it. We’re closed!” --The Princess Bride
“Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father, prepare to die.” --The Princess Bride
“1.21 gigawatts!?!?! 1.21 gigawatts!” --Back to the Future I
“Shtarker, this is KAOS. We don’t ‘doot-doot-doot’ here!” --Get Smart
“He had the nerve to call me a boob? I would never call somebody a boob. He’s a boob! Look at you... yuck.” --Horton Hears a Who
“It’s party time. P-A-R-T-why? Because I gotta!” --The Mask
“That’s a SPICY meata-balla!” --The Mask
“Hey, do you want to hear the most annoying sound in the world?... EHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!” --Dumb and Dumber
“Wow that was a nice image. Click, click. Deleted.” --Liar Liar
“WHAT”S WRONG WITH ME!?!?! I’m getting what I deserve. I’m reaping what I sow--” --Liar Liar
“In my world, everyone’s a pony and they all eat rainbows and poop butterflies” --Horton Hears a Who
“If you utter so much as one syllable, I’LL HUNT YOU DOWN AND GUT YOU LIKE A FISH!!... if you want to fax me, press the star key.” --How the Grinch Stole Christmas
“You’re trying on my shoes?” --While You Were Sleeping
“Hey Luce! Is this guy bothering you?” “No. No.” “Are you sure? Because it looks like he’s leaning.” --While You Were Sleeping
“I was playing choo-choo train!” --Catch That Ghost
“Wait a minute. How did this happen? We’re smarter than this.” --Star Wars III
“Why are you burping?” “I have tummy issues. What, get over it!” --17 Again
“If music be the food of love, play on. Give me excess of it.” --Twelfth Night
“That like asking a porcupine to poop goat cheese... yuck.” --17 Again
“Good morning starshine. The earth says hello!” --Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
“I should turn you in right now” “You wouldn’t. Would you?” “Give me one good reason why I shouldn’t” “Because I’m... cute?” --Chicken Run
“Slap. Boom. Twang. Dunk. SPLAT!” --The Great Mouse Detective
“This is my comfy place.” --Home on the Range
“How about some new drapes... and a new robe... and a band-aid.” --Get Smart
“I need to get this speck to the top of Mount Nool ASAP... whatever that means. Probably act swiftly awesome pachyderm.” --Horton Hears a Who
“Ventura!” “Yes Satan?... oh I’m sorry sir. You sounded like someone else.” --Ace Ventura: Pet Detective
“Is this a kissing book?” --The Princess Bride
“What did this do to you? Tell me. And remember, this is for posterity so be honest. How do you feel?” “*cries*” “Interesting.” --The Princess Bride
“I've got my country's 500th anniversary to plan, my wedding to arrange, my wife to murder and Guilder to frame for it; I'm swamped.” --The Princess Bride
“What in the world could that be?” --The Princess Bride
“LIAR!!! LIAR!!! LIAAAAAAR!!!!” “Get back witch!” “I’m not a witch! I’m your wife! But after what you just said, I’m not even sure I want to be that anymore!” --The Princess Bride
“Bye bye boys!” “Have fun storming the castle!” “Think it’ll work?” “It would take a miracle” --The Princess Bride
“It’s possible pig.” --The Princess Bride
“I object” “I didn’t get to the part yet” “I would have to object too.” “What about you?” “I’m thinking.” --While You Were Sleeping
“Remember the squirrels?” “Don’t even say it.” “FIrst I knocked them out of the nest with a rock” “Peter...” “Then I saved them.” “Ew” --While You Were Sleeping
“Get down on one knee. It’s more romantic” “He’s proposing. Let him do it” “I am letting him do it!” -- While You Were Sleeping
“She’s beautiful, but she’s a PILL!” --You’ve Got Mail
“Happy Thanksgibbing back.” --You’ve Got Mail
“How do you sleep at night?” “I use a wonderful over-the-counter drug, Ultradorm. Don't take the whole thing, just half, and you will wake up without even the tiniest hangover.” --You’ve Got Mail
“Such sorry workmanship would not be tolerated in London for one tiny instant. Look here sir at this limp cravat. I ask you! Or the sorry cut of this sleeve. No, no, no. Tsk, tsk, tsk. Or the sad state of those cuffs. Sink me I can hardly bring myself to look upon them. No sir, if this is the best your tailors can do, t’would serve you better to send them to the guillotine.” --The Scarlet Pimpernel
“I have to dance at least the first two with Mr. Collins.” “Oh yes. He’s threatened to dance with us all.” --Pride and Prejudice
“Soon you’ll be sitting around a campfire with Andy making delicious hot sch’moes.” “They’re called s’mores, Buzz.” --Toy Story 2
“Everything is better. Everything looks better, feels better. Even this Chocolate-Peanut Butter tastes better.” “Good. It’s Fudge-Mint.” --While You Were Sleeping
“Oh Mr. Bennet! What is it!? Are we to be murdered in our beds!?” --Pride and Prejudice
“Run!! RUN!!! He’s gonna git’cha!” --Cars
“Naw dang” --Cars
“No more rhymes now. I mean it!” “Anybody want a peanut?” --The Princess Bride
“Mawige. Mawige is what bwings us togetha towday. Mawige dat bwessed awangement. Dat dweam wiffin a dweam. Wuv twoo wuv wil fow you foeva. Have you da wing?” --The Princess Bride
“How was school?” “Worst day of my life what do you think?” --Napoleon Dynamite
“Napoleon, don’t be jealous that I’ve been chatting online with babes all day.” --Napoleon Dynamite
“A hotdog is singing! You need quiet while a hotdog is singing?” --You’ve Got Mail
“Bippity-boppity BACON!!” --Jim Gaffigan
“Let me show you how it’s done... this is a stupid sport.” --Jim Gaffigan
“The worst is being the worst bowler of the group. Then everyone treats you like you have cancer. ‘You can do it. We’re praying for you.’” --Jim Gaffigan
“‘Why don’t you ever make the bed?’ ‘The same reason I don’t tie my shoes after I take them off. It doesn’t make sense.’” --Jim Gaffigan
“Say 8, say 8, say 8, say 8! Happy 8 day!” --Brian Regan
“Number one, do not stand directly in front of a cannon... how true that is.” --Brian Regan
“Number one, remove pastry from pouch. Oh OK. I see where they’re going with this. We’re banging on all cylinders now. Number two, insert pastry... vertically. Oh oh thpppt!” --Brian Regan
“I always admired the kid that spelled it wrong on purpose just so he could sit down. ‘Cat, K-A-T. I’m out.’ And as he passes you , ‘I know there’s two T’s’” --Brian Regan
“Your head pops off that pillow, ‘Oh no! It’s due today! I had nine months to work on it and I did nothing.” --Brian Regan
“‘What have you got there Brian?’ ‘It’s a cup of dirt. Just put an F on there and let me go home’ ‘Well explain it’ ‘Well it’s a cup with dirt in it. I call it cup of dirt.’” --Brian Regan
“OK that one was a little tougher. He either said we should go to the back of the throat or he wants a root beer float.” --Finding Nemo
“If my parents find out, they’re going to bury me alive and dance on my grave. I’m not exaggerating!... OK yes I am, but not the point.” --Meet the Robinsons
“All young ladies are accomplished. They sing, they draw, they dance, speak French and German, cover screens, and I know not what.” --Pride and Prejudice
“Come Darcy, I must have you dance. I must. I hate to see you standing about in this stupid manner. Come, you had much better dance.” -- Pride and Prejudice
“She is tolerable I suppose. But she’s not handsome enough to tempt me.” --Pride and Prejudice
“It’s so fluffy I’m going to die!!!” --Despicable Me
“My dear, do not give way to such gloomy thoughts. Let us hope for better things. Let us flatter ourselves, that I might outlive you.” --Pride and Prejudice
“Joe Jr.’s still single.” “Yeah it’s a shocker.” --While You Were Sleeping
“The truth was I fell in love with you.” “You fell in love with me?” -- While You Were Sleeping
“You know I can’t swim!” “Hence the BOAT” --The Proposal
“Laugh it up fuzzball” --Star Wars V
“Don’t worry Fred, if he hits you with a knife, boy will I boo him.” --The Flintstones
“Do you know how to use that thing?” “Yes. The pointy end goes into the other man.” --The Mask of Zorro
“‘Have you ever been a victim of a crime?’ ‘Yeah I stole 9 cars, I held 5 people at gunpoint, I--’ ‘No VICTIM!’ ‘Oh victim, no.’” --Brian Regan
“She said my boy I think someday, you’ll find a way to make you natural tendencies pay. You’ll be a dentist! You have a talent for causing things pain.” --Little Shop of Horrors
“You finally got into the music. Do you get my joke? Because your head, it’s in the tuba.” --The Princess and the Frog
“Maybe he’s fat. He’s fat. He’s a fatty.” --You’ve Got Mail
“You know who no do. Whack-a-doo. Ratta-tata hey! Why do they call it that?” “What?” “Ratatouille. It’s like a stew right? Why do they call it that? If you’re going to name a food it should sound delicious. Ratatouille doesn’t sound delicious. It sounds like rat and patootey. Rat-patootey! Which does not sound delicious.” --Ratatouille
“SANTA!!!!!! OH MY GOSH!!! Santa here? I know him! I know him!” --Elf
“In DANGER from TOYS?” --Santa Clause is Coming to Town
“Sink me, you tailors have betrayed you!” --The Scarlet Pimpernel
“I can’t see! I can’t see!” “What’s the matter?” “I got my eyes closed.” --The Three Stooges
“I’ve got a name and it’s a boy’s name too.” --Mulan
“You’re the only human I know that snores while he’s awake.” --Get Smart (2008)
“Ooh-ee-ooh-ah-ah-ting-tang-walla-walla-bing-bang.” --Alvin and the Chipmunks
“Turn off the light” “And sleep in the dark? I couldn’t do that.” “Why not?” “The gollywoggles might get me.” --Get Smart
“How do you solve a problem like Maria?” --The Sound of Music
“Charlie, light a match!” --So I Married an Axe Murderer
“We are dead. Soon we will be dead.” “I always liked my head!” “Soon we will be dead.” --Liken’s Ammon and King Lamoni
“After today, y’all be wearing gold plated diapers.” “What does that mean?” “Do not question Bruce Dickenson!” --SNL, More Cowbell
“Sorry. My men are not used to having a pretty face on board.” “If they like me, wait until they get a load of 99.” --Get Smart
“Here we have the meats drawer and uh what you do with that... you would put meats.” --Brian Regan
“I look handsome, I look smart. I am a walking work of art.” --Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat
“The bunny, the bunny, ooh I love the bunny” --Veggietales, Rack Shack and Benny
“I want a potty. I want a cookie. I want to stay up. I want, I want, I want, me, me, me, me, mine, mine, mine, now, now, now!” --Hook
“I like you... I don’t know why.” --Pride and Prejudice: A Latter-day Comedy
“Elizabeth, we have been commanded to multiply and replenish the earth!” --Pride and Prejudice: A Latter-day Comedy
“I had an interesting experience with a woman in this congregation who will remain anonymous. But for the sake of the story we’ll call her Elizabeth B. No, no E. Bennet.” --Pride and Prejudice: A Latter-day Comedy
“My FAT!!” --Get Smart (2008)
“The king’s stinkin’ son fired me and thank you so much for bringing up such a painful subject. WHile you’re at it, why don’t you get me a nice paper cut and pour lemon juice on it. We’re closed!” --The Princess Bride
“Hello, my name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father, prepare to die.” --The Princess Bride
“1.21 gigawatts!?!?! 1.21 gigawatts!” --Back to the Future I
“Shtarker, this is KAOS. We don’t ‘doot-doot-doot’ here!” --Get Smart
“He had the nerve to call me a boob? I would never call somebody a boob. He’s a boob! Look at you... yuck.” --Horton Hears a Who
“It’s party time. P-A-R-T-why? Because I gotta!” --The Mask
“That’s a SPICY meata-balla!” --The Mask
“Hey, do you want to hear the most annoying sound in the world?... EHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!” --Dumb and Dumber
“Wow that was a nice image. Click, click. Deleted.” --Liar Liar
“WHAT”S WRONG WITH ME!?!?! I’m getting what I deserve. I’m reaping what I sow--” --Liar Liar
“In my world, everyone’s a pony and they all eat rainbows and poop butterflies” --Horton Hears a Who
“If you utter so much as one syllable, I’LL HUNT YOU DOWN AND GUT YOU LIKE A FISH!!... if you want to fax me, press the star key.” --How the Grinch Stole Christmas
“You’re trying on my shoes?” --While You Were Sleeping
“Hey Luce! Is this guy bothering you?” “No. No.” “Are you sure? Because it looks like he’s leaning.” --While You Were Sleeping
“I was playing choo-choo train!” --Catch That Ghost
“Wait a minute. How did this happen? We’re smarter than this.” --Star Wars III
“Why are you burping?” “I have tummy issues. What, get over it!” --17 Again
“If music be the food of love, play on. Give me excess of it.” --Twelfth Night
“That like asking a porcupine to poop goat cheese... yuck.” --17 Again
“Good morning starshine. The earth says hello!” --Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
“I should turn you in right now” “You wouldn’t. Would you?” “Give me one good reason why I shouldn’t” “Because I’m... cute?” --Chicken Run
“Slap. Boom. Twang. Dunk. SPLAT!” --The Great Mouse Detective
“This is my comfy place.” --Home on the Range
“How about some new drapes... and a new robe... and a band-aid.” --Get Smart
“I need to get this speck to the top of Mount Nool ASAP... whatever that means. Probably act swiftly awesome pachyderm.” --Horton Hears a Who
“Ventura!” “Yes Satan?... oh I’m sorry sir. You sounded like someone else.” --Ace Ventura: Pet Detective
“Is this a kissing book?” --The Princess Bride
“What did this do to you? Tell me. And remember, this is for posterity so be honest. How do you feel?” “*cries*” “Interesting.” --The Princess Bride
“I've got my country's 500th anniversary to plan, my wedding to arrange, my wife to murder and Guilder to frame for it; I'm swamped.” --The Princess Bride
“What in the world could that be?” --The Princess Bride
“LIAR!!! LIAR!!! LIAAAAAAR!!!!” “Get back witch!” “I’m not a witch! I’m your wife! But after what you just said, I’m not even sure I want to be that anymore!” --The Princess Bride
“Bye bye boys!” “Have fun storming the castle!” “Think it’ll work?” “It would take a miracle” --The Princess Bride
“It’s possible pig.” --The Princess Bride
“I object” “I didn’t get to the part yet” “I would have to object too.” “What about you?” “I’m thinking.” --While You Were Sleeping
“Remember the squirrels?” “Don’t even say it.” “FIrst I knocked them out of the nest with a rock” “Peter...” “Then I saved them.” “Ew” --While You Were Sleeping
“Get down on one knee. It’s more romantic” “He’s proposing. Let him do it” “I am letting him do it!” -- While You Were Sleeping
“She’s beautiful, but she’s a PILL!” --You’ve Got Mail
“Happy Thanksgibbing back.” --You’ve Got Mail
“How do you sleep at night?” “I use a wonderful over-the-counter drug, Ultradorm. Don't take the whole thing, just half, and you will wake up without even the tiniest hangover.” --You’ve Got Mail
“Such sorry workmanship would not be tolerated in London for one tiny instant. Look here sir at this limp cravat. I ask you! Or the sorry cut of this sleeve. No, no, no. Tsk, tsk, tsk. Or the sad state of those cuffs. Sink me I can hardly bring myself to look upon them. No sir, if this is the best your tailors can do, t’would serve you better to send them to the guillotine.” --The Scarlet Pimpernel
“I have to dance at least the first two with Mr. Collins.” “Oh yes. He’s threatened to dance with us all.” --Pride and Prejudice
“Soon you’ll be sitting around a campfire with Andy making delicious hot sch’moes.” “They’re called s’mores, Buzz.” --Toy Story 2
“Everything is better. Everything looks better, feels better. Even this Chocolate-Peanut Butter tastes better.” “Good. It’s Fudge-Mint.” --While You Were Sleeping
“Oh Mr. Bennet! What is it!? Are we to be murdered in our beds!?” --Pride and Prejudice
“Run!! RUN!!! He’s gonna git’cha!” --Cars
“Naw dang” --Cars
Monday, June 28, 2010
My Top 5 Rom-Com's
I have made a tribute to my favorite kid movies and I decided that since I don't have very much to do now that I'm finished with my book, I'd make another tribute post. I chose to do this one on Romantic Comedies. Here are my top 5 favorites (in order).
5) 50 First Dates (Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore)
I first watched this one back in like 6th grade at my friend's slumber party. I never saw it again until fairly recently. I bought it at Target and watched it. I found that it had more inappropriate stuff than I thought, but after I cleaned it up, it became a super cute movie.
PLOT: Henry Roth is a veterinarian living in Hawaii who enjoys the company of vacationing women. He leaves the playboy life behind after he falls for Lucy, who suffers from short-term memory loss. Since she can never remember meeting him, Henry has to romance Lucy every single day and hope that she falls for him.
I find the plot endearing and sweet. I love the entirely random characters like Lucy's brother and Henry's hawaiian friend.
Favorite Quote(s):
Dr. Keats: Tom lost part of his brain in a hunting accident. His memory only lasts ten seconds.
Ten Second Tom: I was in an accident? That's terrible.
Dr. Keats: Don't worry, you're totally gonna get over it in about three seconds.
Ten Second Tom: Get over it? I mean, what happened? Did I get shot in the brain... Hi. I'm Tom.
4) You've Got Mail (Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks)
I remember walking in on my mom late at night and she would be watching this. I would sometimes sit and watch a little bit, but I never really understood it. However, I managed to remember the characters. I can't remember exactly when I watched it again. I believe I was in middle school. I was not firmly attached to it at first, but the more I watched it, the more I came to love it.
PLOT: Kathleen Kelly owns a small children's book store, but is coming under competition from Joe Fox's giant Fox Books, a megastore with a cafe and discounted books. The two become arch rivals, without realising that the romance they are conducting anonymously on the internet is with each other.
Tom Hanks is one of the best actors I have seen (and one of my favorites). He can play any role and he plays the role of the sarcastic and rich Joe Fox perfectly. I guess his character is one of the reasons why I like the movie so much. I love how the characters hate each other in person, but are in love with each other over the internet. Joe even gives kathleen advice on how to defeat her business rival (unaware that it is him).
Favorite Quote(s):
Joe: Maybe he's fat. He's fat, he's a fatty.
Frank: A hotdog is singing! You need quiet while a hotdog is singing!?
3) When in Rome (Kristen Bell and Josh Duhamel)
I first saw this movie in theaters. I had never even heard of it until my mom told me that we were going to it. So I did not know what to expect.
PLOT: Beth is at a point in her life where love seems like a luxury she just can't afford. Years of waiting for that perfect romance has made Beth bitter, and one day, while vacationing in Rome, she cynically plucks a handful of coins from a local fountain of love. Almost immediately thereafter, Beth finds herself fending off the advances of a diminutive sausage magnate, a lanky street magician, a doting painter, and a narcissistic male model. Meanwhile, a smitten reporter does his best to convince Beth that true love isn't just a topic of fairy tales and romance novels.
I really liked the movie after leaving the theaters. Everything about it was hilarious, but the male model is what really made it for me. I would drop out of my chair laughing at him. Believe it or not, despite him being my favorite character, I totally forgot about him until we bought the movie. Before we got to the theaters, all of the kids said we would cover out eyes and plug our ears if something too inappropriate came up and our parents would tell us when it was over. We never had to do that. The movie was one of the cleanest romantic comedies I had ever seen.
Favorite Quote(s):
Gale the model: I don't know whether to stare at my reflection or at you. That's how beautiful you are.
2) The Proposal (Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds)
I did not get to see this one in theaters. Even though I had seen the previews, I was not dying to see it. I finally saw it when my parents bought it. I saw part of the uncensored version first, but my dad stopped me and cleaned it up. Then I watched it for the first time.
PLOT: When high-powered book editor Margaret faces deportation to her native Canada, the quick-thinking exec declares that she's actually engaged to her unsuspecting put-upon assistant Andrew, who she's tormented for years. He agrees to participate in the charade, but with a few conditions of his own. The unlikely couple heads to Alaska to meet his quirky family and the always-in-control city girl finds herself in one comedic fish-out-of-water situation after another. With an impromptu wedding in the works and an immigration official on their tails, Margaret and Andrew reluctantly vow to stick to the plan despite the precarious consequences.
I thoroughly enjoyed the movie. The major sarcasm between the two main characters is so funny. I had a love-hate relationship with Maragret. She was so mean, but I still liked her. Then I liked her more as the movie went on.
Favorite Quote(s):
Margaret: What am I allergic to?
Andrew: Pine nuts... and the full spectrum of human emotion
Margaret: You know I can't swim
Andrew: Hence the BOAT
1) While You Were Sleeping (Sandra Bullock and Bill Pullman)
The way I first saw this is similar to the way I first saw You've Got Mail. I would walk in on my mom while she was watching it. Sadly, I saw the end several times without understanding it and so when I tried watching it for real, I remembered how it ended.
PLOT: Lucy is a lonely fare collector on the Chicago elevated railway who has a secret crush on a handsome commuter named Peter Callaghan. On Christmas day, Lucy rescues Peter from an oncoming train after a mugger pushes him onto the tracks. Peter falls into a coma, and Lucy accompanies him to the hospital, where a nurse overhears her fantasizing aloud, "I was going to marry him." Misinterpreting her, the nurse tells Peter's family that Lucy is his fiancée. The mayhem escalates, when Lucy meets Peter's suspicious yet charming brother and falls for him.
This movie will always remain not only my favorite rom-com, but also one of my all time favorite movies. The script is genius. There is not a dull moment at all. You are either laughing or crying the entire time. This is one of those movies that gets me screaming at the characters as if it were a horror movie. The two main characters have true onscreen chemistry that is fun to watch. The movie is perfectly cast even down to Peter's hospital roommate and the hotdog vendor.
Favorite Quote(s):
Peter: Remember the squirrels?
Jack: Don't even say it
Peter: First I knocked them out of the nest with a rock
Jack: Peter...
Peter: Then I saved them
Jack: Eww
Elsie: How did Joe Kelly get to be a lector? He takes marijuana.
All: Amen!
Lucy: The truth was... I fell in love with you.
Ox: You fell in love with me?
Peter: Everything is better. Everything looks better, feels better. Even this Chocolate-Peanut Butter tastes better.
Jack: Good. It's Fudge-Mint.
5) 50 First Dates (Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore)
I first watched this one back in like 6th grade at my friend's slumber party. I never saw it again until fairly recently. I bought it at Target and watched it. I found that it had more inappropriate stuff than I thought, but after I cleaned it up, it became a super cute movie.
PLOT: Henry Roth is a veterinarian living in Hawaii who enjoys the company of vacationing women. He leaves the playboy life behind after he falls for Lucy, who suffers from short-term memory loss. Since she can never remember meeting him, Henry has to romance Lucy every single day and hope that she falls for him.
I find the plot endearing and sweet. I love the entirely random characters like Lucy's brother and Henry's hawaiian friend.
Favorite Quote(s):
Dr. Keats: Tom lost part of his brain in a hunting accident. His memory only lasts ten seconds.
Ten Second Tom: I was in an accident? That's terrible.
Dr. Keats: Don't worry, you're totally gonna get over it in about three seconds.
Ten Second Tom: Get over it? I mean, what happened? Did I get shot in the brain... Hi. I'm Tom.
4) You've Got Mail (Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks)
I remember walking in on my mom late at night and she would be watching this. I would sometimes sit and watch a little bit, but I never really understood it. However, I managed to remember the characters. I can't remember exactly when I watched it again. I believe I was in middle school. I was not firmly attached to it at first, but the more I watched it, the more I came to love it.
PLOT: Kathleen Kelly owns a small children's book store, but is coming under competition from Joe Fox's giant Fox Books, a megastore with a cafe and discounted books. The two become arch rivals, without realising that the romance they are conducting anonymously on the internet is with each other.
Tom Hanks is one of the best actors I have seen (and one of my favorites). He can play any role and he plays the role of the sarcastic and rich Joe Fox perfectly. I guess his character is one of the reasons why I like the movie so much. I love how the characters hate each other in person, but are in love with each other over the internet. Joe even gives kathleen advice on how to defeat her business rival (unaware that it is him).
Favorite Quote(s):
Joe: Maybe he's fat. He's fat, he's a fatty.
Frank: A hotdog is singing! You need quiet while a hotdog is singing!?
3) When in Rome (Kristen Bell and Josh Duhamel)
I first saw this movie in theaters. I had never even heard of it until my mom told me that we were going to it. So I did not know what to expect.
PLOT: Beth is at a point in her life where love seems like a luxury she just can't afford. Years of waiting for that perfect romance has made Beth bitter, and one day, while vacationing in Rome, she cynically plucks a handful of coins from a local fountain of love. Almost immediately thereafter, Beth finds herself fending off the advances of a diminutive sausage magnate, a lanky street magician, a doting painter, and a narcissistic male model. Meanwhile, a smitten reporter does his best to convince Beth that true love isn't just a topic of fairy tales and romance novels.
I really liked the movie after leaving the theaters. Everything about it was hilarious, but the male model is what really made it for me. I would drop out of my chair laughing at him. Believe it or not, despite him being my favorite character, I totally forgot about him until we bought the movie. Before we got to the theaters, all of the kids said we would cover out eyes and plug our ears if something too inappropriate came up and our parents would tell us when it was over. We never had to do that. The movie was one of the cleanest romantic comedies I had ever seen.
Favorite Quote(s):
Gale the model: I don't know whether to stare at my reflection or at you. That's how beautiful you are.
2) The Proposal (Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds)
I did not get to see this one in theaters. Even though I had seen the previews, I was not dying to see it. I finally saw it when my parents bought it. I saw part of the uncensored version first, but my dad stopped me and cleaned it up. Then I watched it for the first time.
PLOT: When high-powered book editor Margaret faces deportation to her native Canada, the quick-thinking exec declares that she's actually engaged to her unsuspecting put-upon assistant Andrew, who she's tormented for years. He agrees to participate in the charade, but with a few conditions of his own. The unlikely couple heads to Alaska to meet his quirky family and the always-in-control city girl finds herself in one comedic fish-out-of-water situation after another. With an impromptu wedding in the works and an immigration official on their tails, Margaret and Andrew reluctantly vow to stick to the plan despite the precarious consequences.
I thoroughly enjoyed the movie. The major sarcasm between the two main characters is so funny. I had a love-hate relationship with Maragret. She was so mean, but I still liked her. Then I liked her more as the movie went on.
Favorite Quote(s):
Margaret: What am I allergic to?
Andrew: Pine nuts... and the full spectrum of human emotion
Margaret: You know I can't swim
Andrew: Hence the BOAT
1) While You Were Sleeping (Sandra Bullock and Bill Pullman)
The way I first saw this is similar to the way I first saw You've Got Mail. I would walk in on my mom while she was watching it. Sadly, I saw the end several times without understanding it and so when I tried watching it for real, I remembered how it ended.
PLOT: Lucy is a lonely fare collector on the Chicago elevated railway who has a secret crush on a handsome commuter named Peter Callaghan. On Christmas day, Lucy rescues Peter from an oncoming train after a mugger pushes him onto the tracks. Peter falls into a coma, and Lucy accompanies him to the hospital, where a nurse overhears her fantasizing aloud, "I was going to marry him." Misinterpreting her, the nurse tells Peter's family that Lucy is his fiancée. The mayhem escalates, when Lucy meets Peter's suspicious yet charming brother and falls for him.
This movie will always remain not only my favorite rom-com, but also one of my all time favorite movies. The script is genius. There is not a dull moment at all. You are either laughing or crying the entire time. This is one of those movies that gets me screaming at the characters as if it were a horror movie. The two main characters have true onscreen chemistry that is fun to watch. The movie is perfectly cast even down to Peter's hospital roommate and the hotdog vendor.
Favorite Quote(s):
Peter: Remember the squirrels?
Jack: Don't even say it
Peter: First I knocked them out of the nest with a rock
Jack: Peter...
Peter: Then I saved them
Jack: Eww
Elsie: How did Joe Kelly get to be a lector? He takes marijuana.
All: Amen!
Lucy: The truth was... I fell in love with you.
Ox: You fell in love with me?
Peter: Everything is better. Everything looks better, feels better. Even this Chocolate-Peanut Butter tastes better.
Jack: Good. It's Fudge-Mint.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
My Book- Finished
I have finally finished my book, Shaken Forever- Banner of the Lord's Army. I have been working on this since January 2, 2010 and finished today June 24, 2010. It is 207 pages long, 11 times new roman font, double-spaced. It is unedited at 63,130 words. It is shorter than I anticipated, but I am going to start on its sequel.
I sent the preface and the first three chapter in to Deseret Books on May 11. So I will give more updates on whether it was accepted, if I get a release date, etc. Cross your fingers for me. I am preparing myself for rejection, just so I'm not disappointed, but it will still be exciting if it gets accepted.
Here is the letter I sent to the publisher:
In the book of Alma in the Book of Mormon, we learn about Captain Moroni, the chief captain over the entire Nephite army. We read about his new ways of thinking and planning concerning the ways of war. I chose to write about Captain Moroni because the prophet Mormon wrote a very praiseworthy scripture on him: “Yea, verily, verily I say unto you, if all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto Moroni, behold the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever; yea, the devil would never have power over the hearts of the children of men." (Alma 48:17). I believe that this praise depicts Captain Moroni as a very worthy role model for today’s readers.
In the following manuscript, I have fictionalized the stories contained in Alma 43-52. Captain Moroni is an opinionated, yet brave and wise young man who has served in the army since he was only 15 years old. Orphaned just a couple years previous to the start of the novel, he has nothing to do, but put all his focus on his duties as a soldier. However, he is made a captain over the army residing in the Land Jershon, where the Anti-Nephi-Lehis are staying. He meets and eventually marries his wife (who later becomes another major character in the story) while there. When he is only 25 years old, he is chosen to become the chief captain over the entire Nephite army. While he raises a small family, he fights in countless battles. These including the battle on the River Sidon (Alma 43- 44) and the raising of the Title of Liberty (Alma 46). The main antagonist is Amalickiah.
As a sub-plot we also follow Helaman, the son of Alma the Younger as he establishes the church throughout the land. We follow him as he is prepared to become the new high priest over the land and to be given possession of the brass plates.
Moroni’s wife goes through struggles of her own as her husband is constantly away from home, leaving her alone to raise her children. We follow her journey towards total humility as she puts all her trust in the Lord to protect and guide her husband.
I’m pleased to present part one of Shaken Forever- The Banner of the Lord’s Army, a story of faith, trust in the Lord, and fighting for what is right. I will begin working on a sequel for it, about Moroni’s battles with Ammoron after Amalickiah’s death. The manuscript is complete at an estimate of 80,000 words, with the chapter notes still in progress. There may be a change in the number after I finish editing the ending.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Inner-Child
We all have the child in us come out on occasions, but mine is hardly ever hidden. I don't think that this will ever change (nor do I hope it does). I love being a kid. Now that I am only one year away from becoming an adult, I am appreciating all my childish interests more than usual. This post is an ode the my favorite kid movies.
Kung Fu Panda is the first. I can't explain it, but I love this movie. It puts me to sleep almost every night. I guess I just love Jack Black's natural hilarity and Dustin Hoffman's entirely likeable character.
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs was one of my favorite books when I was in elementary so I of course could not wait to see the movie. I waited anxiously until it was finally released. I went and saw it with Afton and my friend Sarah. We all walked out of theater, unsure of what to think of it. It was so bizarre. I mean a guy gets eaten by a roasted chicken, then he possesses the chicken. Things don't come any more random. But I guess it's the randomness that intrigues me so much. I just love all the characters, but I especially love the policeman, Earl.
This show was my favorite in my pre-teen/early teen years. The whole general plot was clever and unique and the characters were hilarious in their own ways. The twins were so cute in this show (like pinch-your-cheek cute) and this was Ashley Tisdale's life before High School Musical. As much as I loved the main characters, it was the minor characters I loved the most. I loved Esteban the bellboy, Arwin the junkman/janitor, and Muriel the lazy maid. I certainly hope I don't have kids like Zack and Cody someday.
The Suite Life on Deck is a sequel/spin-off of the Suite Life of Zack and Cody. This time the twins are growing up and on a cruise ship for "Sea School" with Mr. Moseby as the boat's manager. I almost like this show better than the original. I like the new character Bailey, but I do miss Maddie. I like Zack much more in this show than in the original. He is a lot funnier and thinner. I still like Cody, but he is losing his charm as the nerdy twin. However, I still absolutely adore this show.
My new favorite Disney movie. I had never been so excited to find out that Disney was making another traditionally animated movie. I was so upset that I did not get to see it the day it came out. I almost did not get to see it the second day either, but I managed to convince my dad to drop me off at the theater with Brady. I loved the more modern take on the traditional story. I loved every single one of the characters (yes even the villain). I loved all the songs and the animation was definite eye-candy.
Lastly, I must mention Veggietales. I did not watch much of these as a kid. I only had Josh and the Big Wall and Ultimate Silly Song Countdown. I was reunited with the show when I was about 13, when I found our soundtrack of the silly songs. I still had every single one of the memorized. That was when I began making my first music videos. I began watching more when I went to seminary where my teacher was a big fan. Over the past year, I have watched all the videos available on Youtube. My personal favorite is Lyle the Kindly Viking. I remember when I heard about The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything: A Veggietales Movie was coming out. Excitement beyond measure! Larry is my favorite and I love the songs, The Hairbrush Song, Pizza Angel, Sippy Cup, and Larry's High Silk Hat.
Kung Fu Panda is the first. I can't explain it, but I love this movie. It puts me to sleep almost every night. I guess I just love Jack Black's natural hilarity and Dustin Hoffman's entirely likeable character.
Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs was one of my favorite books when I was in elementary so I of course could not wait to see the movie. I waited anxiously until it was finally released. I went and saw it with Afton and my friend Sarah. We all walked out of theater, unsure of what to think of it. It was so bizarre. I mean a guy gets eaten by a roasted chicken, then he possesses the chicken. Things don't come any more random. But I guess it's the randomness that intrigues me so much. I just love all the characters, but I especially love the policeman, Earl.
This show was my favorite in my pre-teen/early teen years. The whole general plot was clever and unique and the characters were hilarious in their own ways. The twins were so cute in this show (like pinch-your-cheek cute) and this was Ashley Tisdale's life before High School Musical. As much as I loved the main characters, it was the minor characters I loved the most. I loved Esteban the bellboy, Arwin the junkman/janitor, and Muriel the lazy maid. I certainly hope I don't have kids like Zack and Cody someday.
The Suite Life on Deck is a sequel/spin-off of the Suite Life of Zack and Cody. This time the twins are growing up and on a cruise ship for "Sea School" with Mr. Moseby as the boat's manager. I almost like this show better than the original. I like the new character Bailey, but I do miss Maddie. I like Zack much more in this show than in the original. He is a lot funnier and thinner. I still like Cody, but he is losing his charm as the nerdy twin. However, I still absolutely adore this show.
My new favorite Disney movie. I had never been so excited to find out that Disney was making another traditionally animated movie. I was so upset that I did not get to see it the day it came out. I almost did not get to see it the second day either, but I managed to convince my dad to drop me off at the theater with Brady. I loved the more modern take on the traditional story. I loved every single one of the characters (yes even the villain). I loved all the songs and the animation was definite eye-candy.
Lastly, I must mention Veggietales. I did not watch much of these as a kid. I only had Josh and the Big Wall and Ultimate Silly Song Countdown. I was reunited with the show when I was about 13, when I found our soundtrack of the silly songs. I still had every single one of the memorized. That was when I began making my first music videos. I began watching more when I went to seminary where my teacher was a big fan. Over the past year, I have watched all the videos available on Youtube. My personal favorite is Lyle the Kindly Viking. I remember when I heard about The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything: A Veggietales Movie was coming out. Excitement beyond measure! Larry is my favorite and I love the songs, The Hairbrush Song, Pizza Angel, Sippy Cup, and Larry's High Silk Hat.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Writer's Block
If you have ever attempted to write an essay, a short story, a novel, or any other type of writing project, you have most likely experienced a writer's block at least once. I have taken the definition of writer's block and put it below
writer's block: (noun) a usually temporary condition in which a writer finds it impossible to proceed with the writing of a novel, play, or other work.
A writer's block can be as short as one minute or it can last for months at a time. Believe me, I have had my share of LONG writer's blocks. My last one was for almost two months. I am currently in another writer's block. I have written very little in my book for the past few weeks. I am not sure what is the cause of my writer's block this time because I know what I'm trying to accomplish in the scene and I know how I want it laid out, but I just cannot seem to put it onto the paper. I accomplish an average of 50-100 words per day if I'm lucky. Normally I averaged about 500-1000 words per day.
Some great writers have said that a writer's block means that whatever you are about to write means that it is wrong entirely and that you should start over that paragraph, that chapter, or even the entire book itself. I have rewritten the scene I am currently struggling through thousands of times and yet I still get stuck at almost the exact same spot. I cannot change it too much because it is historic fiction, I need to put the events in order.
Sometimes the simplest things can pulls an author out of a writer's block. It can simply be a revelation given to them in their sleep. Or something they see, hear, taste, etc. gives them an idea. Sometimes, they just lack motivation so one day they could suddenly just want to write and will forcefully pull themselves out of it.
Anyways, I thought I would just throw my frustrated rant out into cyberspace for all to read. Hopefully I can pull out of this soon.
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