Jeanie did this Summer time quiz recently. Of course, I had to play along, because... Well, basically, because I love doing these, and I couldn't resist.
So, here are the questions, along with my answers. Feel free to play along too.
1. Walk or Bike Ride?
I used to enjoy doing both equally, but these days only walk.
2. Favorite Picnic Food?
Sandwiches. My favourites being egg and cress, cheese and onion, cheese and tomato, or jam (jelly).
3. Pool or Lake?
Either works for me. Although, if it's to hang out near, I'd rather the lake, because then I get the benifit of enjoying nature while I hang out. The ocean is my favourite option though... I love to paddle and splash in the ocean.
4. Favorite Flavor of ice cream?
I have three favourites: Mint choc-chip, toffee fudge, and strawberry. I also love both raspberry and lemon sorbet.
5. Ice Cream Cone or in a Dish?
Cone most of the time, though either works.
6. Flip Flops or Slides?
Actually, whenever possible, I prefer bare feet. When I have to wear shoes of any sort, I prefer daps (I think those outside the UK call them deck shoes) or a light weight pair of trainers (sneakers).
7. Jean Shorts or Jean Capris?
Neither. I don't wear jeans of any sort. Doesn't matter if it's Summer or Winter. I find the material too restricting. I prefer lighter and more breatheable materials.
8. Favorite summer fruit?
Cherries. Although, peaches are a close second.
9. Corn on the Cob or Cut Off the Cob?
Either. If it's on the cob though, it needs to be covered in melted butter.
10. Favorite summertime song?
I'm not sure I really have one. Although, the first song that springs to mind when thinking of an answer to this question is Mungo Jerry - In The Summertime.
11. Favorite summertime activity?
Picnics on the beach.
12. Favorite Berry?
Wait... I have to pick one? Nooo! Don't make me choose! I can't choose! Just give me some of each!
13. Bikini’s, tankini’s or one pieces?
A one piece. As it is I usually wear a t-shirt over that. No, not because of a lack of confidence, though I admit that is a bit of an issue for me. The t-shirt is because my shoulders and back burn way too easily to leave them unprotected. My arms and legs will usually either tan or not catch the sun. My back and shoulders burn quickly and badly, and it doesn't even need to be that hot of a day for it to happen. I'd probably prefer a one piece even if that wasn't a concern though.
14. Dresses or Skirts?
Ugh! Neither! I didn't even wear a dress to my own wedding, so there's no way I'm about to wear one just because the weather is nice. I'll stick to shorts, thank you very much!
15. One Word to describe Summer?
HOT!
That's not always the case over here, but since I'm working on this in temperatures of 27 degrees C (86 F) with only a fan to try and cool myself down, due to our lack of air conditioning, I feel there's no better word to describe the season.
Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Monday, July 30, 2018
#MondayMotivation And #Inspiration - July 2018 Edition
If you are patient in one moment of anger, you will escape a hundred days of sorrow.
~Ancient Chinese proverb
I believe much trouble and blood would be saved if we opened our hearts more.
~Chief Joseph
Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.
~Dr. Seuss
Whatever you do to the animals, you do to yourself.
~Ben Mikaelsen
You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching, love like you'll never be hurt, sing like there's nobody listening, and live like it's heaven on earth.
~William W. Purkey
You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.
~Mae West
Sunday, July 29, 2018
The #Hastings #RAF100 And The #RedArrows
The Royal Air Force is celebrating being around for 100 years by flying to different locations around the country. On July 21st 2018 (and again on the 22nd, though we only went to watch on the 21st, and heard their fly-by from the comfort of our own home the following afternoon) it was our turn to have them flying over our area.
We went all the way up near Old Town to see them... See...
The street sign picture is more to show where we were than anything.
Anyway, we got a couple of videos of the planes doing their fly-by, so here they are:
For anyone who doesn't know their plane models, but wants to know what the planes are: The smaller two planes are a Spitfire and a Hurricane. The larger one is a Lancaster Bomber.
By the way, if you're wondering: Lilie didn't care about the planes, and took no notice of them passing over our heads. The sky could have been empty for all the notice she took. She took more notice when the Red Arrows were doing their display later in the day. But even with that it was just mild curiosity, which soon gave way to disinterest.
We didn't get photos or videos from the Red Arrows display.
We hadn't stayed out for it, because it would have been too long. The planes in the above clips were scheduled to do their fly-by around 1:00pm, and the Red Arrows display was scheduled to happen between 6:00pm and 6:30pm. Between the time we needed to allow to get there in plenty of time in case things kicked off early - which, as it turned out, they did - and the time we would have arrived home after it was all over, we would have had to be out for a little over seven hours.
Had it just been us, that wouldn't have been too bad, because we could have grabbed some lunch somewhere after the 1:00pm show, and then spent the afternoon checking out the dinosaur event that was meant to be happening nearby, before going to hang out on the beach until it was time for the evening show. We'd have even had a choice of sandy or pebbly beach, since we had to go far enough along the coast that we weren't far from the part of our beach that's actually more sand than shingles. It wouldn't have been fair on Lilie to have her out that long though.
Unfortunately, going back there in the evening wouldn't have been an option either. So, we planned to go down to the beach not too far from where we live to see as much of the Red Arrows show as we could, since they claimed it could be seen for a couple of miles, and we do live within that radius.
They were right, and we could see it from our place. The trouble is, we lost track of time, and didn't make it downstairs in time. This meant we saw the show from indoors instead of from on the beach. For the purposes of our own viewing, this wasn't too big of a deal. We couldn't get a good angle with the camera though, and going downstairs to try and get videos and/or photos would have meant missing a chunk of it ourselves. So we decided to just enjoy the show and forget about the camera.
The Red Arrows were only in our area on the 21st of July though, so we couldn't even try again the following day.
This is the second time we've seen a Red Arrows display since we've lived in this area though, and I do have photos from the 2012 display, if you'd like to take a look at those.
We went all the way up near Old Town to see them... See...
The street sign picture is more to show where we were than anything.
Anyway, we got a couple of videos of the planes doing their fly-by, so here they are:
For anyone who doesn't know their plane models, but wants to know what the planes are: The smaller two planes are a Spitfire and a Hurricane. The larger one is a Lancaster Bomber.
By the way, if you're wondering: Lilie didn't care about the planes, and took no notice of them passing over our heads. The sky could have been empty for all the notice she took. She took more notice when the Red Arrows were doing their display later in the day. But even with that it was just mild curiosity, which soon gave way to disinterest.
We didn't get photos or videos from the Red Arrows display.
We hadn't stayed out for it, because it would have been too long. The planes in the above clips were scheduled to do their fly-by around 1:00pm, and the Red Arrows display was scheduled to happen between 6:00pm and 6:30pm. Between the time we needed to allow to get there in plenty of time in case things kicked off early - which, as it turned out, they did - and the time we would have arrived home after it was all over, we would have had to be out for a little over seven hours.
Had it just been us, that wouldn't have been too bad, because we could have grabbed some lunch somewhere after the 1:00pm show, and then spent the afternoon checking out the dinosaur event that was meant to be happening nearby, before going to hang out on the beach until it was time for the evening show. We'd have even had a choice of sandy or pebbly beach, since we had to go far enough along the coast that we weren't far from the part of our beach that's actually more sand than shingles. It wouldn't have been fair on Lilie to have her out that long though.
Unfortunately, going back there in the evening wouldn't have been an option either. So, we planned to go down to the beach not too far from where we live to see as much of the Red Arrows show as we could, since they claimed it could be seen for a couple of miles, and we do live within that radius.
They were right, and we could see it from our place. The trouble is, we lost track of time, and didn't make it downstairs in time. This meant we saw the show from indoors instead of from on the beach. For the purposes of our own viewing, this wasn't too big of a deal. We couldn't get a good angle with the camera though, and going downstairs to try and get videos and/or photos would have meant missing a chunk of it ourselves. So we decided to just enjoy the show and forget about the camera.
The Red Arrows were only in our area on the 21st of July though, so we couldn't even try again the following day.
This is the second time we've seen a Red Arrows display since we've lived in this area though, and I do have photos from the 2012 display, if you'd like to take a look at those.
Friday, July 27, 2018
#FurkidFriday: Lilie The #Westie At The #Beach
Hi everyone. This is Lilie the Westie again.
Mummy's been coming with us for lots of walkies, and she likes to go to the beach place, so we've been there a lot lately. Not that I mind. Anywhere is fine with me, as long as it's outside, and I'm included in whatever's going on.
It's been really hot though, so we've been very glad of the breeze coming from the big water. Even with that it's been too hot to stay out for long walkies most days though, and I've needed naps after we get home.
Anyway, the humans took some photos and videos of me when we were enjoying some of our walkies on the beach place, so I thought I'd share them with you, since I'm sure you'd love to see more new photos and videos of me.
These first photos are from a couple of weeks ago.
Here I am just enjoying the beach, checking out who's been there before, etc:
Here I am reaching up to get a treat from Mummy, who was sat on one of those benches that are stuck to tables:
Don't worry, along with the treats, they always take water for me to drink when we go walkies. They also take other stuff, like my extending lead for if they want to let me run a little, and a tennis ball, in case I want to play a bit while Mummy has one of the many rests she seems to need for some reason.
Here I am having a drink with Mummy during another of one of our recent beach trips:
Also, here's a short video of me from that same beach trip, which - in case you're interested - was about a week and a half ago:
They took more photos that day too.
Here I am playing with the stones:
And here I am just sitting there looking cute:
We were hanging out on the beach again this past Wednesday too.
The humans took another photo of me while we were there:
They also got another video of me playing among the stones. I like to dig in them, but I also like chasing them when they move, or when someone throws them. I love chasing things! Anyway, here's the video:
I would have played longer, but it was too hot. I didn't even play with my ball for long, because - as I said - it was too hot.
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed my videos and photos.
Lots of licks,
Lilie
Mummy's been coming with us for lots of walkies, and she likes to go to the beach place, so we've been there a lot lately. Not that I mind. Anywhere is fine with me, as long as it's outside, and I'm included in whatever's going on.
It's been really hot though, so we've been very glad of the breeze coming from the big water. Even with that it's been too hot to stay out for long walkies most days though, and I've needed naps after we get home.
Anyway, the humans took some photos and videos of me when we were enjoying some of our walkies on the beach place, so I thought I'd share them with you, since I'm sure you'd love to see more new photos and videos of me.
These first photos are from a couple of weeks ago.
Here I am just enjoying the beach, checking out who's been there before, etc:
Here I am reaching up to get a treat from Mummy, who was sat on one of those benches that are stuck to tables:
Don't worry, along with the treats, they always take water for me to drink when we go walkies. They also take other stuff, like my extending lead for if they want to let me run a little, and a tennis ball, in case I want to play a bit while Mummy has one of the many rests she seems to need for some reason.
Here I am having a drink with Mummy during another of one of our recent beach trips:
Also, here's a short video of me from that same beach trip, which - in case you're interested - was about a week and a half ago:
They took more photos that day too.
Here I am playing with the stones:
And here I am just sitting there looking cute:
We were hanging out on the beach again this past Wednesday too.
The humans took another photo of me while we were there:
They also got another video of me playing among the stones. I like to dig in them, but I also like chasing them when they move, or when someone throws them. I love chasing things! Anyway, here's the video:
I would have played longer, but it was too hot. I didn't even play with my ball for long, because - as I said - it was too hot.
Anyway, I hope you enjoyed my videos and photos.
Lots of licks,
Lilie
Thursday, July 26, 2018
Laughter Lines - Just A #Joke
I put this post together to fill one of my Sunday slots a few weeks ago, but since then have had enough other stuff to post that I've already rescheduled it several times. I think it's about time it got posted, so I'm posting it today.
The following jokes were taken from among those in the Smorgasbord Laughter Lines catagory of Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life. Check out the rest by reading the posts in that catagory.
***~~~***
A man is looking through a cemetery when he hears some music. He looks around to see who is playing it but can’t see anyone. Searching for the source, he finally finds it coming from a grave with a headstone that reads:
Ludwig van Beethoven 1770-1827
Then he realizes the music is Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony and is being played backward.
Puzzled, he leaves the graveyard and persuades a friend to return with him. By the time they arrive back at the grave, the Seventh Symphony is playing, also backward.
Curious, the men agree to consult a music scholar. When they return, the Fifth Symphony is playing, again backward. The expert notices the symphonies are being played in the reverse order in which they were composed. By the next day, the word has spread and a crowd has gathered around the grave. They are all listening to the Second Symphony being played backward.
Just then, the graveyard’s caretaker ambles up to the group.
Someone asks him if he has an explanation for all of this. “I would have thought it was obvious,” he replied. “He’s decomposing.”
***~~~***
A man joins a Trappist order and is told that he is allowed to say just two words every five years.
After five years he speaks his two words to his superiors. ‘Bed hard,’ he says. He is promised the problem will be looked into.
Another five years passes and this time his two words are: ‘Food cold.’ Again his
superiors promise to take care of the problem.
Five years later his two words are ‘I quit’.
His superiors look at each other wearily. ‘We are not in the least bit surprised,' they reply. 'You have done nothing but complain for the last fifteen years!’
***~~~***
There was once a young man who, in his youth, professed his desire to become a great writer.
When asked to define “Great” he said, “I want to write stuff that the whole world will read, stuff that people will react to on a truly emotional level, stuff that will make them scream, cry, howl in pain and anger!”
He now works for Microsoft, writing error messages.
***~~~***
“In English,” the English professor said, “A double negative forms a positive. In some languages, though, such as Russian, a double negative is still a negative. However, there is no language wherein a double positive can form a negative.”
A voice from the back of the room piped up, “Yeah, right.”
***~~~***
A mother was telling her little girl what her own childhood was like: “We used to skate outside on a pond. I had a swing made from a tire; it hung from a tree in our front yard. We rode our pony. We picked wild raspberries in the woods.”
The little girl was wide-eyed, taking this in. At last she said, “I sure wish I’d gotten to know you sooner!”
***~~~***
A mother and her young son returned from the grocery store and began putting away the groceries. The boy opened the box of animal crackers and spread them all over the table.
“What are you doing?” his mother asked.
“The box says you can’t eat them if the seal is broken,” the boy explained. “I’m looking for the seal.”
The following jokes were taken from among those in the Smorgasbord Laughter Lines catagory of Smorgasbord – Variety is the spice of life. Check out the rest by reading the posts in that catagory.
***~~~***
A man is looking through a cemetery when he hears some music. He looks around to see who is playing it but can’t see anyone. Searching for the source, he finally finds it coming from a grave with a headstone that reads:
Ludwig van Beethoven 1770-1827
Then he realizes the music is Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony and is being played backward.
Puzzled, he leaves the graveyard and persuades a friend to return with him. By the time they arrive back at the grave, the Seventh Symphony is playing, also backward.
Curious, the men agree to consult a music scholar. When they return, the Fifth Symphony is playing, again backward. The expert notices the symphonies are being played in the reverse order in which they were composed. By the next day, the word has spread and a crowd has gathered around the grave. They are all listening to the Second Symphony being played backward.
Just then, the graveyard’s caretaker ambles up to the group.
Someone asks him if he has an explanation for all of this. “I would have thought it was obvious,” he replied. “He’s decomposing.”
***~~~***
A man joins a Trappist order and is told that he is allowed to say just two words every five years.
After five years he speaks his two words to his superiors. ‘Bed hard,’ he says. He is promised the problem will be looked into.
Another five years passes and this time his two words are: ‘Food cold.’ Again his
superiors promise to take care of the problem.
Five years later his two words are ‘I quit’.
His superiors look at each other wearily. ‘We are not in the least bit surprised,' they reply. 'You have done nothing but complain for the last fifteen years!’
***~~~***
There was once a young man who, in his youth, professed his desire to become a great writer.
When asked to define “Great” he said, “I want to write stuff that the whole world will read, stuff that people will react to on a truly emotional level, stuff that will make them scream, cry, howl in pain and anger!”
He now works for Microsoft, writing error messages.
***~~~***
“In English,” the English professor said, “A double negative forms a positive. In some languages, though, such as Russian, a double negative is still a negative. However, there is no language wherein a double positive can form a negative.”
A voice from the back of the room piped up, “Yeah, right.”
***~~~***
A mother was telling her little girl what her own childhood was like: “We used to skate outside on a pond. I had a swing made from a tire; it hung from a tree in our front yard. We rode our pony. We picked wild raspberries in the woods.”
The little girl was wide-eyed, taking this in. At last she said, “I sure wish I’d gotten to know you sooner!”
***~~~***
A mother and her young son returned from the grocery store and began putting away the groceries. The boy opened the box of animal crackers and spread them all over the table.
“What are you doing?” his mother asked.
“The box says you can’t eat them if the seal is broken,” the boy explained. “I’m looking for the seal.”
Wednesday, July 25, 2018
#WednesdayWisdom - July 2018
Go slow to go fast. We live as though there aren't enough hours in the day but if we do each thing calmly & carefully we will get it done quicker & with much less stress.
~Viggo Mortensen
We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.
~Thornton Wilder
Successful people are not gifted; they just work hard, then succeed on purpose.
~G.K. Nielson
We may say prayers when we are trying to solve the problems we face, but it is up to us to put an end to violence and bring about peace. Creating peace is our responsibility. To pray for peace while still engaging in the causes that give rise to violence is contradictory.
~Dalai Lama
I believe that our planet is inhabited not only by animals and plants and bacteria and viruses, but also by ideas. Ideas are a disembodied, energetic life-form. They are completely separate from us, but capable of interacting with us—albeit strangely. Ideas have no material body, but they do have consciousness, and they most certainly have will. Ideas are driven by a single impulse: to be made manifest. And the only way an idea can be made manifest in our world is through collaboration with a human partner.
~Elizabeth Gilbert
Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards.
~Søren Kierkegaard
In daily life we must see that it is not happiness that makes us grateful, but gratefulness that makes us happy.
~David Steindl-Rast
Tuesday, July 24, 2018
Guest Post: #Christmas In July With Robbie And Michael Cheadle - #Holidays #Recipes #Baking
Christmas in July
By Robbie Cheadle
In South Africa, along with some of the other Southern Hemisphere countries, we celebrate Christmas in July. Apparently, we Southern Hemisphere country dwellers feel deprived because Christmas falls during the height of our summer season. We miss out on a white Christmas with snow, frost and warming eggnog. Personally, I think we just feel we need a bit of cheering up by the end of July, our coldest month, and Christmas in July is as good a reason to celebrate as any other.
This year we are celebrating with a traditional lunch of roast lamb, roast potatoes, pumpkin, green beans, cauliflower, broccoli and gravy. My entire family will come and all 21 of us will sit down together to enjoy this delicious meal.
For dessert, my sister, Catherine, is bringing a bread and butter pudding and my sister, Laura, is bringing a vegan Malva pudding. Both delicious treats are way to stodgy and heavy to eat during our December when it is over 30 degrees Celsius every day. Our traditional Christmas fare comprises of cold meats and salad, eaten on the verandah as the children [and some adults] drink long and cool fruit drinks and jump into the pool every five minutes.
I have made a Christmas parcel Christmas cake for this year’s family festival.
The first step was to make the Christmas cakes. I used my Grandmother’s famous recipe and scooped the mixture into two well lined square cake tins. One tin was bigger than the other. You can find the YouTube video with instructions on how to make this Christmas cake here.
The fondant pieces must be made in advance. These include the lid of the box and the Christmas bow.
The box lid was easy to make. I rolled out white fondant to a thickness of 5mm. I then cut out a square slightly larger than the tin I used to bake the top cake. I cut four sides out of the white fondant. Two were the same length and approximately 1/5 of the depth of the top square cake. The other two pieces were 10 mm shorter. The shorter pieces fit inside the longer pieces when forming the sides of the lid.
Next, I made the Christmas bow. I cut 11 pieces of white fondant 2 cm wide and 7 cm long. I folded these over loosely and gathered the edges to make the loops. I cut out a small circle of white fondant and attached five of the loops to the circle in a circular shape. I left this to set of 30 minutes. I then attached the next 5 loops, ensuring that each new loop was over the gap between the two loops underneath. Lastly, I attached the final loop to the middle of the Christmas bow. I left the bow overnight to dry thoroughly and then I painted it with edible gold food colouring.
The next weekend I iced the cakes. I cut a square hole into the top of the smaller square cake and then covered the entire cake with a thin layer of royal icing. I rolled out a large piece of white fondant and gently placed it over the entire cake, smoothing it downwards with my hands.
My idea was that the top “box” would be open with the items inside spilling out. I bought chocolate coins and sweetie bracelets to go in the box. I attached these inside the box using royal icing. I set this small cake aside. I then decorated the larger cake. I coloured a biggish quantity of fondant a light green and rolled it out to about 2.5 mm thick. I covered the larger fruit cake with a thin layer of royal icing and placed the green fondant over it; smoothing it onto the cake in the same way as I did for the smaller cake. I cut several icicles out of white fondant and attached them to the larger cake using edible sugar glue.
I attached the larger cake to the cake board with royal icing and placed the smaller one on top of it. I placed the lid of the box against the side of the larger cake with the bow in front of it. I cut a strip of red fondant for the ribbon and attached it with royal icing.
I hope the family will enjoy this fun and tasty cake.
***~~~***
About Robbie and Michael Cheadle
Robbie Cheadle was born in London in the United Kingdom. Her father died when she was three months old and her mother immigrated to South Africa with her tiny baby girl. Robbie has lived in Johannesburg, George and Cape Town in South Africa and attended fourteen different schools. This gave her lots of opportunities to meet new people and learn lots of social skills as she was frequently “the new girl”.
Robbie is a qualified Chartered Accountant and specialises in corporate finance with a specific interest in listed entities and stock markets. Robbie has written a number of publications on listing equities and debt instruments in Africa and foreign direct investment into Africa.
Robbie is married to Terence Cheadle and they have two lovely boys, Gregory and Michael. Michael (aged 11) is the co-author of the Sir Chocolate series of books and attends school in Johannesburg. Gregory (aged 14) is an avid reader and assists Robbie and Michael with filming and editing their YouTube videos and editing their books. Robbie is also the author of the new Silly Willy series the first of which, Silly Willy goes to Cape Town, is now available.
Robbie and Michael Cheadle’s books
Sir Chocolate books – currently available in hard copy and as ebooks
A5 format for children aged 6 to 9 years
Square format for younger children aged 2 to 5 years
Sir Chocolate and the strawberry cream berries story and cookbook:
Sir Chocolate and Lady Sweet live in Chocolate land where you can eat absolutely everything. Join them on a fantastic adventure to find the amazing strawberry cream berry and learn how to make some of their scrumptious recipes at the same time.
Sir Chocolate and the baby cookie monster story and cookbook:
Sir Chocolate and Lady Sweet find a lost baby cookie monster. Join them on an adventure to return the baby to its mother and learn how to make some of their delicious recipes at the same time.
Sir Chocolate and the sugar dough bees story and cookbook:
A greedy snail damages the flower fields and the fondant bees are in danger of starving. Join Sir Chocolate on an adventure to find the fruit drop fairies who have magic healing powers and discover how to make some of his favourite foods on the way.
Sir Chocolate and the Condensed Milk River story and cookbook:
The Condensed Milk River where Sir Chocolate goes fishing has stopped flowing. The water creatures are losing their homes. Can Sir Chocolate and Lady Sweet solve this problem? Includes five lovely new recipes.
Sir Chocolate and the sugar crystal caves story and cookbook:
Sir Chocolate and Lady Sweet journey to the sugar crystal caves to collect the sugar water they need to make their soda pop. To get to the Chocolate Chip Hills they must cross the Chocolate Mousse Swamp infested with alligator sours and a meringue ghost. When they arrive, they discover that the sugar crystals are melting, and something needs to be done to save them. Learn how to make some four fun creations out of biscuits and the sugar crystals too.
Silly Willy goes to Cape Town currently available in hardcopy and as an ebook
Blurb: When the George family go on holiday to Cape Town, Cautious Craig cannot believe what he has to endure at the hands of his naughty and wilful younger brother, Silly Willy. Willy throws tantrums at the most embarrassing and inappropriate times, causes a commotion on the aeroplane and tries to steal a chameleon from Butterfly World. What is a poor older brother expected to do in these situations?
Coming in 2018
What was it like for children growing up in rural Suffolk during World War II?
Elsie and her family live in a small double story cottage in Bungay, Suffolk. Every night she lies awake listening anxiously for the sound of the German bomber planes. Often they come and the air raid siren sounds signaling that the family must leave their beds and venture out to the air raid shelter in the garden.
Despite, the war raging across the English channel, daily life must continue with its highlights, such as Christmas and the traditional Boxing Day fox hunt, and its scary moments when Elsie learns the stories of Jack Frost and the ghostly and terrifying Black Shuck that haunts the coastline and countryside of East Anglia.
Includes some authentic WWII recipes.
Follow Robbie Cheadle at:
Blog: https://bakeandwrite.co.za/
Blog: robbiesinspiration.wordpress.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15584446.Robbie_Cheadle
Plus.google: https://plus.google.com/105609586198905397891
Facebook: @SirChocolateBooks
Twitter: @bakeandwrite
Purchase Robbie and Michael Cheadle’s Books from:
https://www.amazon.com/author/robbiecheadle or http://tinyurl.com/zdokqjr
By Robbie Cheadle
In South Africa, along with some of the other Southern Hemisphere countries, we celebrate Christmas in July. Apparently, we Southern Hemisphere country dwellers feel deprived because Christmas falls during the height of our summer season. We miss out on a white Christmas with snow, frost and warming eggnog. Personally, I think we just feel we need a bit of cheering up by the end of July, our coldest month, and Christmas in July is as good a reason to celebrate as any other.
This year we are celebrating with a traditional lunch of roast lamb, roast potatoes, pumpkin, green beans, cauliflower, broccoli and gravy. My entire family will come and all 21 of us will sit down together to enjoy this delicious meal.
For dessert, my sister, Catherine, is bringing a bread and butter pudding and my sister, Laura, is bringing a vegan Malva pudding. Both delicious treats are way to stodgy and heavy to eat during our December when it is over 30 degrees Celsius every day. Our traditional Christmas fare comprises of cold meats and salad, eaten on the verandah as the children [and some adults] drink long and cool fruit drinks and jump into the pool every five minutes.
I have made a Christmas parcel Christmas cake for this year’s family festival.
The first step was to make the Christmas cakes. I used my Grandmother’s famous recipe and scooped the mixture into two well lined square cake tins. One tin was bigger than the other. You can find the YouTube video with instructions on how to make this Christmas cake here.
The fondant pieces must be made in advance. These include the lid of the box and the Christmas bow.
The box lid was easy to make. I rolled out white fondant to a thickness of 5mm. I then cut out a square slightly larger than the tin I used to bake the top cake. I cut four sides out of the white fondant. Two were the same length and approximately 1/5 of the depth of the top square cake. The other two pieces were 10 mm shorter. The shorter pieces fit inside the longer pieces when forming the sides of the lid.
Next, I made the Christmas bow. I cut 11 pieces of white fondant 2 cm wide and 7 cm long. I folded these over loosely and gathered the edges to make the loops. I cut out a small circle of white fondant and attached five of the loops to the circle in a circular shape. I left this to set of 30 minutes. I then attached the next 5 loops, ensuring that each new loop was over the gap between the two loops underneath. Lastly, I attached the final loop to the middle of the Christmas bow. I left the bow overnight to dry thoroughly and then I painted it with edible gold food colouring.
The next weekend I iced the cakes. I cut a square hole into the top of the smaller square cake and then covered the entire cake with a thin layer of royal icing. I rolled out a large piece of white fondant and gently placed it over the entire cake, smoothing it downwards with my hands.
My idea was that the top “box” would be open with the items inside spilling out. I bought chocolate coins and sweetie bracelets to go in the box. I attached these inside the box using royal icing. I set this small cake aside. I then decorated the larger cake. I coloured a biggish quantity of fondant a light green and rolled it out to about 2.5 mm thick. I covered the larger fruit cake with a thin layer of royal icing and placed the green fondant over it; smoothing it onto the cake in the same way as I did for the smaller cake. I cut several icicles out of white fondant and attached them to the larger cake using edible sugar glue.
I attached the larger cake to the cake board with royal icing and placed the smaller one on top of it. I placed the lid of the box against the side of the larger cake with the bow in front of it. I cut a strip of red fondant for the ribbon and attached it with royal icing.
I hope the family will enjoy this fun and tasty cake.
***~~~***
About Robbie and Michael Cheadle
Robbie Cheadle was born in London in the United Kingdom. Her father died when she was three months old and her mother immigrated to South Africa with her tiny baby girl. Robbie has lived in Johannesburg, George and Cape Town in South Africa and attended fourteen different schools. This gave her lots of opportunities to meet new people and learn lots of social skills as she was frequently “the new girl”.
Robbie is a qualified Chartered Accountant and specialises in corporate finance with a specific interest in listed entities and stock markets. Robbie has written a number of publications on listing equities and debt instruments in Africa and foreign direct investment into Africa.
Robbie is married to Terence Cheadle and they have two lovely boys, Gregory and Michael. Michael (aged 11) is the co-author of the Sir Chocolate series of books and attends school in Johannesburg. Gregory (aged 14) is an avid reader and assists Robbie and Michael with filming and editing their YouTube videos and editing their books. Robbie is also the author of the new Silly Willy series the first of which, Silly Willy goes to Cape Town, is now available.
Robbie and Michael Cheadle’s books
Sir Chocolate books – currently available in hard copy and as ebooks
A5 format for children aged 6 to 9 years
Square format for younger children aged 2 to 5 years
Sir Chocolate and the strawberry cream berries story and cookbook:
Sir Chocolate and Lady Sweet live in Chocolate land where you can eat absolutely everything. Join them on a fantastic adventure to find the amazing strawberry cream berry and learn how to make some of their scrumptious recipes at the same time.
Sir Chocolate and the baby cookie monster story and cookbook:
Sir Chocolate and Lady Sweet find a lost baby cookie monster. Join them on an adventure to return the baby to its mother and learn how to make some of their delicious recipes at the same time.
Sir Chocolate and the sugar dough bees story and cookbook:
A greedy snail damages the flower fields and the fondant bees are in danger of starving. Join Sir Chocolate on an adventure to find the fruit drop fairies who have magic healing powers and discover how to make some of his favourite foods on the way.
Sir Chocolate and the Condensed Milk River story and cookbook:
The Condensed Milk River where Sir Chocolate goes fishing has stopped flowing. The water creatures are losing their homes. Can Sir Chocolate and Lady Sweet solve this problem? Includes five lovely new recipes.
Sir Chocolate and the sugar crystal caves story and cookbook:
Sir Chocolate and Lady Sweet journey to the sugar crystal caves to collect the sugar water they need to make their soda pop. To get to the Chocolate Chip Hills they must cross the Chocolate Mousse Swamp infested with alligator sours and a meringue ghost. When they arrive, they discover that the sugar crystals are melting, and something needs to be done to save them. Learn how to make some four fun creations out of biscuits and the sugar crystals too.
Silly Willy goes to Cape Town currently available in hardcopy and as an ebook
Blurb: When the George family go on holiday to Cape Town, Cautious Craig cannot believe what he has to endure at the hands of his naughty and wilful younger brother, Silly Willy. Willy throws tantrums at the most embarrassing and inappropriate times, causes a commotion on the aeroplane and tries to steal a chameleon from Butterfly World. What is a poor older brother expected to do in these situations?
Coming in 2018
What was it like for children growing up in rural Suffolk during World War II?
Elsie and her family live in a small double story cottage in Bungay, Suffolk. Every night she lies awake listening anxiously for the sound of the German bomber planes. Often they come and the air raid siren sounds signaling that the family must leave their beds and venture out to the air raid shelter in the garden.
Despite, the war raging across the English channel, daily life must continue with its highlights, such as Christmas and the traditional Boxing Day fox hunt, and its scary moments when Elsie learns the stories of Jack Frost and the ghostly and terrifying Black Shuck that haunts the coastline and countryside of East Anglia.
Includes some authentic WWII recipes.
Follow Robbie Cheadle at:
Blog: https://bakeandwrite.co.za/
Blog: robbiesinspiration.wordpress.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15584446.Robbie_Cheadle
Plus.google: https://plus.google.com/105609586198905397891
Facebook: @SirChocolateBooks
Twitter: @bakeandwrite
Purchase Robbie and Michael Cheadle’s Books from:
https://www.amazon.com/author/robbiecheadle or http://tinyurl.com/zdokqjr
Monday, July 23, 2018
#Music Monday: A Musical Quiz - #AmListening
I did this book quiz back in February, after seeing it on Jeanie's blog (as I mention in the post I just linked to). Then I tweaked the questions so I could do this movie and TV version of the quiz in May. Now I'm going to do a music version... Just because I can, and because it seemed like a fun idea. Feel free to play along. Oh, and let me know if you do, because I'd love to read your answers.
Anyway, here are the questions, along with my answers.
*What CDs are on your coffee table?
None are. I've got them put away, and only get them out when I feel like listening to something.
*What is the last song you listened to, and who is the artist?
"Blank Space" by Taylor Swift.
*What do you listen to for solace? For escape? For sheer pleasure?
Whatever I'm in the mood for at the time, be it one of my favourite bands or artists, the sounds of nature - such as ocean sounds, birdsong, etc - or other soothing sounds like the sounds of panpipes. I also find classical music to be soothing.
*What's your favourite type of music?
My favourite type of music is country music, as well as the stuff mentioned in the question above. But I also like pop/rock, and oldies. Mostly it's a band, artist, or particular piece that will appeal to me though, since there are plenty of pieces of music I dislike even among my favourite musical genres, and a few pieces I like even among those musical genres I usually dislike and avoid.
*Who is your favorite band or artist?
I've been a huge "Boyzone" fan since I was a child, and am a huge fan of the now solo artist "Ronan Keating" who was their lead singer. But I also love Dolly Parton, Jim Reeves, Johnny Cash, Kenny Rogers, Jason Donovan, Enrique Iglesias, David Cassidy, Westlife, Steps, LeAnn Rimes, Taylor Swift, and several others. Plus, I have yet to listen to Claire Ryann singing something without it either bringing a smile to my face or a tear to my eyes.
You may have noticed that I'm sharing some of my favourites on my blog throughout this year in my "Music Monday" posts. But I have too many I love to cover everything, and this post would get too long if I listed them all too. Plus, as with my favourite books and movies, the top bands and artists on my favourites list can - and do - change from time to time. I hope you're enjoying the selection of my favourite tunes that I'm sharing though.
*What kind of music don't you like?
I tend to hate RAP, punk, and the heavier rock. As a general rule though, I'm open to at least giving things a chance, regardless of the musical genre, or the artist/band performing it. My main issue with any particular type of music is when people are cursing during the songs. Sorry, but there's no need for that. I even prefer the "bleep" version of Johnny Cash's "A Boy Named Sue" for that reason. This is one of my pet peeves in books and movies too.
*How do you like to listen to your tunes? CD or music download? Morning or Night? At home or on the go?
I don't really care how I listen to music. CD, YouTube video, mp3... Any of those work for me.
As for where and when: whenever I feel like listening to some tunes, and wherever I happen to be at the time (assuming wherever I happen to be has access to tunes, of course, since I don't always remember to take music with me on the go... Books, yes, but music... Not so much).
*What's the best CD/record/cassette you ever received as a gift?
I have no idea. I haven't had many musical gifts, and none really spring to mind from those I have had. I got a great collection of cassettes my parents had put together for me to go with my walkman for my 10th birthday though... Does that count?
*What kind of music did you listen to as a child? Which songs or artists stick with you most?
I listened to my Mam's music from the 70s and early 80s mostly, along with some CDs I had of music from the Disney movies. I still consider many of those to be the best types of music, and am more likely to find music I love from the 80s and back than from more recent years.
A favourite song of mine from childhood is "Hands Up" by Ottawan, if you want a particular song from my childhood that I loved... And still love to this day.
*You're organizing a musical dinner party. Which three musical personalities, dead or alive, do you invite?
Ronan Keating, Dolly Parton, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. I think the varied genres they deal with would make for interesting dinner conversation.
Anyway, here are the questions, along with my answers.
*What CDs are on your coffee table?
None are. I've got them put away, and only get them out when I feel like listening to something.
*What is the last song you listened to, and who is the artist?
"Blank Space" by Taylor Swift.
*What do you listen to for solace? For escape? For sheer pleasure?
Whatever I'm in the mood for at the time, be it one of my favourite bands or artists, the sounds of nature - such as ocean sounds, birdsong, etc - or other soothing sounds like the sounds of panpipes. I also find classical music to be soothing.
*What's your favourite type of music?
My favourite type of music is country music, as well as the stuff mentioned in the question above. But I also like pop/rock, and oldies. Mostly it's a band, artist, or particular piece that will appeal to me though, since there are plenty of pieces of music I dislike even among my favourite musical genres, and a few pieces I like even among those musical genres I usually dislike and avoid.
*Who is your favorite band or artist?
I've been a huge "Boyzone" fan since I was a child, and am a huge fan of the now solo artist "Ronan Keating" who was their lead singer. But I also love Dolly Parton, Jim Reeves, Johnny Cash, Kenny Rogers, Jason Donovan, Enrique Iglesias, David Cassidy, Westlife, Steps, LeAnn Rimes, Taylor Swift, and several others. Plus, I have yet to listen to Claire Ryann singing something without it either bringing a smile to my face or a tear to my eyes.
You may have noticed that I'm sharing some of my favourites on my blog throughout this year in my "Music Monday" posts. But I have too many I love to cover everything, and this post would get too long if I listed them all too. Plus, as with my favourite books and movies, the top bands and artists on my favourites list can - and do - change from time to time. I hope you're enjoying the selection of my favourite tunes that I'm sharing though.
*What kind of music don't you like?
I tend to hate RAP, punk, and the heavier rock. As a general rule though, I'm open to at least giving things a chance, regardless of the musical genre, or the artist/band performing it. My main issue with any particular type of music is when people are cursing during the songs. Sorry, but there's no need for that. I even prefer the "bleep" version of Johnny Cash's "A Boy Named Sue" for that reason. This is one of my pet peeves in books and movies too.
*How do you like to listen to your tunes? CD or music download? Morning or Night? At home or on the go?
I don't really care how I listen to music. CD, YouTube video, mp3... Any of those work for me.
As for where and when: whenever I feel like listening to some tunes, and wherever I happen to be at the time (assuming wherever I happen to be has access to tunes, of course, since I don't always remember to take music with me on the go... Books, yes, but music... Not so much).
*What's the best CD/record/cassette you ever received as a gift?
I have no idea. I haven't had many musical gifts, and none really spring to mind from those I have had. I got a great collection of cassettes my parents had put together for me to go with my walkman for my 10th birthday though... Does that count?
*What kind of music did you listen to as a child? Which songs or artists stick with you most?
I listened to my Mam's music from the 70s and early 80s mostly, along with some CDs I had of music from the Disney movies. I still consider many of those to be the best types of music, and am more likely to find music I love from the 80s and back than from more recent years.
A favourite song of mine from childhood is "Hands Up" by Ottawan, if you want a particular song from my childhood that I loved... And still love to this day.
*You're organizing a musical dinner party. Which three musical personalities, dead or alive, do you invite?
Ronan Keating, Dolly Parton, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. I think the varied genres they deal with would make for interesting dinner conversation.
Sunday, July 22, 2018
Of #HastingsPirateDay, And Last Sunday
It was Hastings Pirate Day 2018 on July 15th.
We didn't bother to dress up for it, but we did get Lilie a pirate bandana, and she loved the attention wearing it got her. Here are a couple of photos of her wearing it:
(We had to take them with me holding her on the bench, because it was the only way to keep her still long enough... All the people had her super excited, especially when they were commenting on how cute she was in her bandana).
Anyway, we decided to go to some of the events that were supposed to be happening on the peer for Pirate Day this year. Though it turned out hardly anything was happening on the peer. Most of the stuff was happening in the old town, but we'd decided not to go to those because we're still working on Lilie's drum issue, and they spacifically mentioned having drums involved in parades and things that would be going on. That was why we headed for the stuff on the peer instead. Like I said though, there wasn't much to see.
We did spot - and grab photos of - several pirates on the peer and seafront though:
We had walked all the way to the peer, so were disappointed not to find much more to see than that. So we decided to stop for ice-cream and lunch on the way home to make up for it.
We ended up eating lunch on the seafront - we had lunch from Oscars, if you're interested - while enjoying some free music.
I have a short video clip of the music for you. I'm not a fan of this kind of music, but we thought we'd grab a short clip for you anyway, so you could hear them. Like I said, it's not my kind of music. I have to admit though, although it's not my thing, they were really good, and you could feel the pure joy coming off them while they were performing. Plus, it was cheerful music to be listening to while we ate. Here's the clip:
There were kayaks out at sea that day, and other boats too.
The people on the kayaks were singing. I'm not sure if they were singing just for the pleasure of doing so, singing along with the music from the beach, singing to help keep the rhythm right for rowing, or what, since they were too far out for me to catch what they were singing properly, especially with the other music. But I enjoyed listening to them having a great time out there anyhow, since they sounded cheerful too. Kelly grabbed a couple of photos of them, so here they are:
It was one of those days that didn't turn out as planned, but was a wonderful day anyhow.
It was also one of those really hot days we've been having lately. Yeah, I know many of you have been having hotter weather, but I'm not great with heat (we're talking temperatures of 24 degrees C and higher, so temperatures of 80 degrees F and higher). Bearing in mind, we were out and about walking, and even if we'd been at home wouldn't have had air conditioning, since all we have here is fans. So... Yeah... I'm just glad we were along the seafront so we could benifit from the ocean breeze, and that we're smart enough to take drinks with us - especially for Lilie.
We didn't bother to dress up for it, but we did get Lilie a pirate bandana, and she loved the attention wearing it got her. Here are a couple of photos of her wearing it:
(We had to take them with me holding her on the bench, because it was the only way to keep her still long enough... All the people had her super excited, especially when they were commenting on how cute she was in her bandana).
Anyway, we decided to go to some of the events that were supposed to be happening on the peer for Pirate Day this year. Though it turned out hardly anything was happening on the peer. Most of the stuff was happening in the old town, but we'd decided not to go to those because we're still working on Lilie's drum issue, and they spacifically mentioned having drums involved in parades and things that would be going on. That was why we headed for the stuff on the peer instead. Like I said though, there wasn't much to see.
We did spot - and grab photos of - several pirates on the peer and seafront though:
We had walked all the way to the peer, so were disappointed not to find much more to see than that. So we decided to stop for ice-cream and lunch on the way home to make up for it.
We ended up eating lunch on the seafront - we had lunch from Oscars, if you're interested - while enjoying some free music.
I have a short video clip of the music for you. I'm not a fan of this kind of music, but we thought we'd grab a short clip for you anyway, so you could hear them. Like I said, it's not my kind of music. I have to admit though, although it's not my thing, they were really good, and you could feel the pure joy coming off them while they were performing. Plus, it was cheerful music to be listening to while we ate. Here's the clip:
There were kayaks out at sea that day, and other boats too.
The people on the kayaks were singing. I'm not sure if they were singing just for the pleasure of doing so, singing along with the music from the beach, singing to help keep the rhythm right for rowing, or what, since they were too far out for me to catch what they were singing properly, especially with the other music. But I enjoyed listening to them having a great time out there anyhow, since they sounded cheerful too. Kelly grabbed a couple of photos of them, so here they are:
It was one of those days that didn't turn out as planned, but was a wonderful day anyhow.
It was also one of those really hot days we've been having lately. Yeah, I know many of you have been having hotter weather, but I'm not great with heat (we're talking temperatures of 24 degrees C and higher, so temperatures of 80 degrees F and higher). Bearing in mind, we were out and about walking, and even if we'd been at home wouldn't have had air conditioning, since all we have here is fans. So... Yeah... I'm just glad we were along the seafront so we could benifit from the ocean breeze, and that we're smart enough to take drinks with us - especially for Lilie.
Friday, July 20, 2018
#FurkidFriday: Lilie The #Westie's Warthog Toy
Hi everyone. This is Lilie the Westie.
A couple of weeks back, I got a new toy from the petstore place. I always get something when we go there. Sometimes a treat, sometimes a toy, sometimes both. Great, isn't it? An outing, and something to enjoy when I get home!
This particular time it was a toy, and the toy was a thing the humans say is a warthog, which is cuddly and squeaky. Although, Mummy says real warthogs aren't cuddly or squeaky. Whatever!
Anyway, I thought you'd like to see it, so here are a couple of photos taken when Mummy was giving it to me:
Lots of licks,
Lilie
A couple of weeks back, I got a new toy from the petstore place. I always get something when we go there. Sometimes a treat, sometimes a toy, sometimes both. Great, isn't it? An outing, and something to enjoy when I get home!
This particular time it was a toy, and the toy was a thing the humans say is a warthog, which is cuddly and squeaky. Although, Mummy says real warthogs aren't cuddly or squeaky. Whatever!
Anyway, I thought you'd like to see it, so here are a couple of photos taken when Mummy was giving it to me:
Lots of licks,
Lilie
Wednesday, July 18, 2018
#WriterWednesday - July 18th 2018
Don't forget that the Smashwords Summer/Winter Sale is still on, and all the Smashwords eBook versions of my books are half price throughout it. The sale ends on July 31st, and you can find out a little more about it in my post from the start of July.
Speaking of Smashwords: they just added the option to put a link to where your book is available in audio on your Smashwords book page. So I put the Audible links on mine. Well, on the ones where the audio books are available anyhow. They already had the Amazon links for the paperbacks, which I'd changed from the CreateSpace links after CreateSpace stopped selling directly from their site. Now you can find an option for both paperback and audio book links on my Smashwords pages. I could have also added links to the paperbacks and audio books on other retailers - such as Barnes & Noble and iTunes - but haven't done so, since making it plain there are paperback and audio versions available should be enough. Plus, it took me long enough to do that much. Anyway, I'll add the Audible links for the others as the audio versions become available too.
It seems a lot of places are fiddling with their sites lately. Even ACX has a refreshed website.
***~~~***
I still haven't managed to get any actual writing done on my pirate adventure story. I wanted to, but it's just not happening at the moment. However, there is some progress with it, since I did get a lot of the research I needed to do for it done over the past couple of weeks. I also had a bit of a brainstorming session over the phone with Dakota (13) and Axl (12) - the children of a family friend - to name my pirate ship, so now the ship has a name. That counts, right?
By the way, if you need help naming things in your own story, check out this post for some ideas on how to go about it.
Anyway, despite not doing any actual writing on my pirate adventure story, I did do some writing recently.
I wrote a couple of short poems, as well as a story that was inspired by something that happened with our Westie girl, Lilie, a few weeks back. It's not as much as I'd have liked, and isn't progress on the story I wanted to be working on, but considering everything, and considering how little writing I've managed to do throughout most of this year, I'm pleased to have even gotten that much writing done, especially when you pair it with the time I spent doing research.
"Where's Noodles?" - the story about Lilie - is now going through the revising and editing phases. Yes, I got that far with it. It was one of those stories that demanded attention, and had to be written immediately. Anyway, I'm not sure when it will be ready to be published, but I'll let you know when I have a date set. It should be in the near future though.
That's one good thing about my doing all those blog posts ahead of time: I was able to use some of the time I'd have otherwise spent on writing blog posts to work on some writing, as well as do some research. It's a shame I didn't actually get any writing done on the story I planned to be working with, but at least I got some writing time in, which was nice after how little I've been able to do that in the past few months. Besides, the research needed to be done, and was interesting, so I did enjoy doing that too.
Just to warn you: since I've been posting other things on Wednesdays for the past few weeks, I have a lot of links I want to share, which I've gathered over the past several weeks. Because of this, I've ended up with quite a long post for you.
***~~~***
In case you missed my recent posts about it:
"Waves Of Broken Dreams And Other Poems" is now available in audio from Audible, Amazon, and iTunes, read for you by narrator, and fellow author, Carol Weakland. Clicking on the book's title will take you to my post, where you can see more details about the book, along with a selection of purchase links for all available formats.
Also, "Lonely Little Princess" is now available in audio from Audible, Amazon, and iTunes. This one is narrated by Jenny Bacon. As mentioned above, clicking on the book's title will take you to my post, where you can see more details about the book, along with a selection of purchase links for all available formats.
The first book in my "Zeena Dragon Fae" series is also now available as an audio book, narrated by Ella Lynch. But I'm waiting to post about it until I can post about all four books in the series. Ella is currently working on the rest of them.
Speaking of book availability: I recently learned that you can find my books on Indie Bound. Just thought I'd mention that, in case you're interested. I'm not going to grab links to them... There are over 50, after all... But if you search for me by name, or search for any of my book titles, you should find them easily enough.
***~~~***
Are you going to any of the writing conferences being held all over the place - or, it seems like all over the place - during the next several weeks? If not, don't worry... You're not alone. I'm not going to any either. So, if you're in the same boat as me, here are four ways to benifit from a conference you're not attending. Hope that helps you to not feel so left out.
Conference or not, do you want to support a writer you love, but think you can't afford to? Then check out these ways to support a writer without spending a dime.
Oh, and... Fellow authors, here's a post about what book bloggers want authors to know. These can apply to reviewers in general, and you should bear them in mind before approaching people to ask for reviews for your book.
Mind you, before you try to get reviews, you should decide how you'll be publishing, and figure out some sort of marketing strategy. So, here's a post that discusses how to become a professional author, which may help you get started with that. Also, here's a fantastic post about how to stay sane while you publish, based on the way the Chinese ying-yang symbol reminds us of the balance of energies that exist in the world.
Speaking of book marketing: here's a post that gives you some tips on where you should start.
If you decide to self-publish, and want to increase your chances of your books being picked up by libraries, you should probably take a look at this librarian's top five tips for indie authors.
Regardless of how you publish though, take a look at this post on building your platform and preparing to publish, which is especially useful for those intending to self-publish, but worth checking out if you plan to take the traditional publishing route too.
What are the odds of marketing your book? Well, if nobody knows about it, how can they buy it? I mean, though nothing's guaranteed, some publicity before you publish - and immediately after - can potentially help with book sales, and is more likely to result in sales than doing nothing, that's for sure. With that in mind, here's a post about what to look for in a book publicist, which also includes tips for going it alone.
Does part of your publicity campaign - or marketing strategy, if you prefer to call it that - involve writing guest posts? Then check out these ways to knock your next guest post out of the park.
Additionally, if you're doing a public reading of your book, you might want to read this post on how to perform (not just read) your book in front of audiences.
Also, here are some tips for breaking bread with journalists, or anyone else you might be meeting for the first time in hopes of some extra publicity for yourself and your book(s).
Author or not, don't forget these basic tips for social media etiquette. We should all be following those tips, but they're especially important if you're someone with a business or product to promote, such as an author.
Of course, before you try to publish and market your book, you get to actually write it, which is the best part! First comes the plate of peas part of writing. That's just the first draft though, and often you will rewrite, and it will be painful but worth it.
Next, this post gives a simple example of the story ark, and why stories captivate, so you may want to check that out.
Another thing that might be helpful while writing your story is this post full of tips on how to get the balance right when trying to make your sentences more descriptive.
By the way, here's a post on how to write an effective chase scene - just in case you could use some help with that.
No matter what kind of scene you're writing though, your story will be full of them, and they should have certain elements involved in them. So, here are the five elements of a scene. You can also check out the rest of Rachel's posts on scene writing if you like.
Do you write fantasy, science-fiction, or some other genre where you need to invent your own language? Then check out this post on how to create your own fantasy language.
Regardless of genre, if you're thinking of writing a spin-off, take a moment to read these potentially useful tips for spin-offs.
Also, take a look at this post about the basic plot of a quest, especially if you plan on writing one. WARNING: the post I just linked to contains spoilers for Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince.
No matter what you're writing though, if you write for either middle grade or young adult readers, you should bear in mind the key differences between middle grade vs young adult.
Regardless of the age group you write for, here are ten helpful writing tips you might want to take a look at - especially if you're just getting started on your writing journey. You might also want to take a look at this post about why writing advice from 'experts' isn't always trustworthy.
Another thing you should bear in mind regardless of what you write, or the age group you write it for, is the need to avoid too many cooks in the kitchen situations. So don't overload your story with too many characters; only add characters you need to. Here's some advice to help you decide if you need your characters or not. If characters who don't need to be involved in your book want their stories told too, tell them to get in line, and write their stories in another book or something.
Regardless of the number of characters in your story, here are some awesome plot structures for building bestsellers.
Next, take a look at this interesting post, which asks the question, "Have you found your voice?"
Whether you've found your voice or not, perhaps you should take a look at these ideas for what to do when you hit a brick wall with your writing. If you're struggling with writers' block that's bad enough that those things don't help though, try not to let it discourage you, and maybe do this the next time you feel like leaving the writing life behind.
If you feel you really do need a break from writing though, take one. Afterwards, when you start writing again, you can always take this advice for when you begin writing after a long break.
If it's inspiration you're seeking, check out this series of posts on finding inspiration in various places, and these tips for developing story ideas.
What is this thing called writers' block anyhow?
Oh, and here's what's really happening when you think you're 'running out of ideas'. So try not to stress about it if you're just not feeling it at the moment.
Remember though: having lots of story ideas is a good thing. But sometimes a good idea isn't good enough. Not without the time and effort that goes in to turning it from idea to finished story.
Speaking of time: if your problem is finding time to write between all the other things you want/need to get done in a day, here's how to use a "time block" to get more writing done.
Anyway, let's assume you're writing regularly, and have something you need to make sure you're using commonly accepted grammar rules to write. With that in mind, here's a post that discusses the use of an ellipsis, just in case you aren't sure how to use one. Also, here's one that talks about comma abuse, and another that discusses the paragraph, in case you don't remember the rules for those from your school days.
Once you're done, it will be time to worry about editing. First though, you should rewrite and not edit. Once you've dealt with rewrites, that's when you need to start worrying about arranging editing, and proof reading too. Only then will your book finally be finished.
If you're still not sure where to start, check out this post on going from blank page to published book.
At some point during the process, you should have someone else take a look at your book, so they can help you see the forest and the trees. How you arrange this is up to you, but it really is a good idea to get someone else to take a look at your story before you call it finished.
Bear in mind though that finishing your book isn't the end of things. In fact, yer WURK is just beginning….
Speaking of which, here's a post about how to use Goodreads to promote your book. Yes, it is that simple. Although, I would like to point out that reviews pouring in isn't guaranteed. I'm active on Goodreads, and - while I do have several reviews there - can tell you from personal experience that reviews aren't guaranteed anywhere. Still, it's worth a try. Plus, Goodreads is a fun place to hang out if you're a book lover anyhow, author or not.
By the way, if you're one of those writers who has to fit in writing - and all those other tasks that go along with it - around other commitments, like another job of some kind - be it full time or part time - please remember that it doesn't make you any less of a writer than those who don't, and you don't have to love your day job.
Every writer is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Because of this, you should be careful about comparing yourself to others. There are some positive points about doing so, but it's not always a good thing to do it. With that in mind, here are the pros and cons of comparing yourself to other writers.
So, is writing a need - or a desire for you? Either way, go forth and write like the Dickens!
Oh, and you have my permission to imagine, and should give yours to others, whether you - or they - are a writer or not. Creativity and imagination should be encouraged, and you don't always need to be more productive.
Last, but certainly not least, always look for an excuse to keep writing!
Speaking of Smashwords: they just added the option to put a link to where your book is available in audio on your Smashwords book page. So I put the Audible links on mine. Well, on the ones where the audio books are available anyhow. They already had the Amazon links for the paperbacks, which I'd changed from the CreateSpace links after CreateSpace stopped selling directly from their site. Now you can find an option for both paperback and audio book links on my Smashwords pages. I could have also added links to the paperbacks and audio books on other retailers - such as Barnes & Noble and iTunes - but haven't done so, since making it plain there are paperback and audio versions available should be enough. Plus, it took me long enough to do that much. Anyway, I'll add the Audible links for the others as the audio versions become available too.
It seems a lot of places are fiddling with their sites lately. Even ACX has a refreshed website.
***~~~***
I still haven't managed to get any actual writing done on my pirate adventure story. I wanted to, but it's just not happening at the moment. However, there is some progress with it, since I did get a lot of the research I needed to do for it done over the past couple of weeks. I also had a bit of a brainstorming session over the phone with Dakota (13) and Axl (12) - the children of a family friend - to name my pirate ship, so now the ship has a name. That counts, right?
By the way, if you need help naming things in your own story, check out this post for some ideas on how to go about it.
Anyway, despite not doing any actual writing on my pirate adventure story, I did do some writing recently.
I wrote a couple of short poems, as well as a story that was inspired by something that happened with our Westie girl, Lilie, a few weeks back. It's not as much as I'd have liked, and isn't progress on the story I wanted to be working on, but considering everything, and considering how little writing I've managed to do throughout most of this year, I'm pleased to have even gotten that much writing done, especially when you pair it with the time I spent doing research.
"Where's Noodles?" - the story about Lilie - is now going through the revising and editing phases. Yes, I got that far with it. It was one of those stories that demanded attention, and had to be written immediately. Anyway, I'm not sure when it will be ready to be published, but I'll let you know when I have a date set. It should be in the near future though.
That's one good thing about my doing all those blog posts ahead of time: I was able to use some of the time I'd have otherwise spent on writing blog posts to work on some writing, as well as do some research. It's a shame I didn't actually get any writing done on the story I planned to be working with, but at least I got some writing time in, which was nice after how little I've been able to do that in the past few months. Besides, the research needed to be done, and was interesting, so I did enjoy doing that too.
Just to warn you: since I've been posting other things on Wednesdays for the past few weeks, I have a lot of links I want to share, which I've gathered over the past several weeks. Because of this, I've ended up with quite a long post for you.
***~~~***
In case you missed my recent posts about it:
"Waves Of Broken Dreams And Other Poems" is now available in audio from Audible, Amazon, and iTunes, read for you by narrator, and fellow author, Carol Weakland. Clicking on the book's title will take you to my post, where you can see more details about the book, along with a selection of purchase links for all available formats.
Also, "Lonely Little Princess" is now available in audio from Audible, Amazon, and iTunes. This one is narrated by Jenny Bacon. As mentioned above, clicking on the book's title will take you to my post, where you can see more details about the book, along with a selection of purchase links for all available formats.
The first book in my "Zeena Dragon Fae" series is also now available as an audio book, narrated by Ella Lynch. But I'm waiting to post about it until I can post about all four books in the series. Ella is currently working on the rest of them.
Speaking of book availability: I recently learned that you can find my books on Indie Bound. Just thought I'd mention that, in case you're interested. I'm not going to grab links to them... There are over 50, after all... But if you search for me by name, or search for any of my book titles, you should find them easily enough.
***~~~***
Are you going to any of the writing conferences being held all over the place - or, it seems like all over the place - during the next several weeks? If not, don't worry... You're not alone. I'm not going to any either. So, if you're in the same boat as me, here are four ways to benifit from a conference you're not attending. Hope that helps you to not feel so left out.
Conference or not, do you want to support a writer you love, but think you can't afford to? Then check out these ways to support a writer without spending a dime.
Oh, and... Fellow authors, here's a post about what book bloggers want authors to know. These can apply to reviewers in general, and you should bear them in mind before approaching people to ask for reviews for your book.
Mind you, before you try to get reviews, you should decide how you'll be publishing, and figure out some sort of marketing strategy. So, here's a post that discusses how to become a professional author, which may help you get started with that. Also, here's a fantastic post about how to stay sane while you publish, based on the way the Chinese ying-yang symbol reminds us of the balance of energies that exist in the world.
Speaking of book marketing: here's a post that gives you some tips on where you should start.
If you decide to self-publish, and want to increase your chances of your books being picked up by libraries, you should probably take a look at this librarian's top five tips for indie authors.
Regardless of how you publish though, take a look at this post on building your platform and preparing to publish, which is especially useful for those intending to self-publish, but worth checking out if you plan to take the traditional publishing route too.
What are the odds of marketing your book? Well, if nobody knows about it, how can they buy it? I mean, though nothing's guaranteed, some publicity before you publish - and immediately after - can potentially help with book sales, and is more likely to result in sales than doing nothing, that's for sure. With that in mind, here's a post about what to look for in a book publicist, which also includes tips for going it alone.
Does part of your publicity campaign - or marketing strategy, if you prefer to call it that - involve writing guest posts? Then check out these ways to knock your next guest post out of the park.
Additionally, if you're doing a public reading of your book, you might want to read this post on how to perform (not just read) your book in front of audiences.
Also, here are some tips for breaking bread with journalists, or anyone else you might be meeting for the first time in hopes of some extra publicity for yourself and your book(s).
Author or not, don't forget these basic tips for social media etiquette. We should all be following those tips, but they're especially important if you're someone with a business or product to promote, such as an author.
Of course, before you try to publish and market your book, you get to actually write it, which is the best part! First comes the plate of peas part of writing. That's just the first draft though, and often you will rewrite, and it will be painful but worth it.
Next, this post gives a simple example of the story ark, and why stories captivate, so you may want to check that out.
Another thing that might be helpful while writing your story is this post full of tips on how to get the balance right when trying to make your sentences more descriptive.
By the way, here's a post on how to write an effective chase scene - just in case you could use some help with that.
No matter what kind of scene you're writing though, your story will be full of them, and they should have certain elements involved in them. So, here are the five elements of a scene. You can also check out the rest of Rachel's posts on scene writing if you like.
Do you write fantasy, science-fiction, or some other genre where you need to invent your own language? Then check out this post on how to create your own fantasy language.
Regardless of genre, if you're thinking of writing a spin-off, take a moment to read these potentially useful tips for spin-offs.
Also, take a look at this post about the basic plot of a quest, especially if you plan on writing one. WARNING: the post I just linked to contains spoilers for Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince.
No matter what you're writing though, if you write for either middle grade or young adult readers, you should bear in mind the key differences between middle grade vs young adult.
Regardless of the age group you write for, here are ten helpful writing tips you might want to take a look at - especially if you're just getting started on your writing journey. You might also want to take a look at this post about why writing advice from 'experts' isn't always trustworthy.
Another thing you should bear in mind regardless of what you write, or the age group you write it for, is the need to avoid too many cooks in the kitchen situations. So don't overload your story with too many characters; only add characters you need to. Here's some advice to help you decide if you need your characters or not. If characters who don't need to be involved in your book want their stories told too, tell them to get in line, and write their stories in another book or something.
Regardless of the number of characters in your story, here are some awesome plot structures for building bestsellers.
Next, take a look at this interesting post, which asks the question, "Have you found your voice?"
Whether you've found your voice or not, perhaps you should take a look at these ideas for what to do when you hit a brick wall with your writing. If you're struggling with writers' block that's bad enough that those things don't help though, try not to let it discourage you, and maybe do this the next time you feel like leaving the writing life behind.
If you feel you really do need a break from writing though, take one. Afterwards, when you start writing again, you can always take this advice for when you begin writing after a long break.
If it's inspiration you're seeking, check out this series of posts on finding inspiration in various places, and these tips for developing story ideas.
What is this thing called writers' block anyhow?
Oh, and here's what's really happening when you think you're 'running out of ideas'. So try not to stress about it if you're just not feeling it at the moment.
Remember though: having lots of story ideas is a good thing. But sometimes a good idea isn't good enough. Not without the time and effort that goes in to turning it from idea to finished story.
Speaking of time: if your problem is finding time to write between all the other things you want/need to get done in a day, here's how to use a "time block" to get more writing done.
Anyway, let's assume you're writing regularly, and have something you need to make sure you're using commonly accepted grammar rules to write. With that in mind, here's a post that discusses the use of an ellipsis, just in case you aren't sure how to use one. Also, here's one that talks about comma abuse, and another that discusses the paragraph, in case you don't remember the rules for those from your school days.
Once you're done, it will be time to worry about editing. First though, you should rewrite and not edit. Once you've dealt with rewrites, that's when you need to start worrying about arranging editing, and proof reading too. Only then will your book finally be finished.
If you're still not sure where to start, check out this post on going from blank page to published book.
At some point during the process, you should have someone else take a look at your book, so they can help you see the forest and the trees. How you arrange this is up to you, but it really is a good idea to get someone else to take a look at your story before you call it finished.
Bear in mind though that finishing your book isn't the end of things. In fact, yer WURK is just beginning….
Speaking of which, here's a post about how to use Goodreads to promote your book. Yes, it is that simple. Although, I would like to point out that reviews pouring in isn't guaranteed. I'm active on Goodreads, and - while I do have several reviews there - can tell you from personal experience that reviews aren't guaranteed anywhere. Still, it's worth a try. Plus, Goodreads is a fun place to hang out if you're a book lover anyhow, author or not.
By the way, if you're one of those writers who has to fit in writing - and all those other tasks that go along with it - around other commitments, like another job of some kind - be it full time or part time - please remember that it doesn't make you any less of a writer than those who don't, and you don't have to love your day job.
Every writer is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Because of this, you should be careful about comparing yourself to others. There are some positive points about doing so, but it's not always a good thing to do it. With that in mind, here are the pros and cons of comparing yourself to other writers.
So, is writing a need - or a desire for you? Either way, go forth and write like the Dickens!
Oh, and you have my permission to imagine, and should give yours to others, whether you - or they - are a writer or not. Creativity and imagination should be encouraged, and you don't always need to be more productive.
Last, but certainly not least, always look for an excuse to keep writing!
Tuesday, July 17, 2018
#ChildrensBook - Lonely Little Princess Now In #Audio! #Animals #Mice #KidLit
All the mice of the castle were very happy, until Princess Hazel became sad. Nobody can figure out why she’s so sad; she has everything a mouse princess could ask for. But nothing seems to make her happy. That is, until an orphaned little field mouse named Ffern arrives. Now it looks like there may be a way to make everyone happy once again.
Previously only available as an eBook or paperback, "Lonely Little Princess" is now also available as an audiobook, read for you by Jenny Bacon.
Regardless of the format you'd prefer, here are the main places where you can buy the book:
Audible, Smashwords, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, Chapters-Indigo, iBooks, iTunes, Amazon UK, Amazon US, Amazon Canada, and The Book Depository.
The book also has a page on Goodreads.
Monday, July 16, 2018
#Music Monday: Celine Dion - Titanic Theme Song • My Heart Will Go On
C is for Celine Dion, who you probably know is French-Canadian. I decided to share this version of "My heart will go on" - the version from the movie "Titanic" - because it's the first thing I think of when I think of her, which is probably true for a lot of people. So... Enjoy!
Sunday, July 15, 2018
Of Medical Mutterings, Some Cuddly Animals, And The 2018 #StLeonards Festival
I had my first shot this past Friday (July 13th).
It's too soon to know if it's going to do anything, but I thought those who have been following my medical news would want to know I've had it. The next shot is scheduled for August 10th at 2:30pm.
While I was there, I had them weigh me.
I lost half a kilo (a little over a pound).
I'm not sure how I feel about it.
On the one hand, I'm pleased, because any weight loss is a good thing, and losing weight slowly is the best way. After all, they say losing weight slowly means it's easier to keep it off. So, if it was after my surgery, and I was just doing this to slowly get myself in to better shape, I'd be happy with even that small weight loss. I know I'm trying, and that it will get easier in time, but that the reason it wasn't much is because pushing myself to my limits still doesn't mean I'm getting anywhere near as much exercise as I should be. I know things will improve for me in time, and - as I said - if this was after my surgery, so it was only myself I had to answer to, I'd be happy that things are moving in the right direction, all be it slowly.
On the other hand, since I have to convince the gynecologists I'm trying, I'm a bit upset that I only lost that much. I need to lose more than I have been if I'm going to have enough of a decrease in weight to satisfy them. That half a kilo was in four weeks. If I only lose that much every four weeks, I'll only manage to lose two or three kilos before the surgery date rolls around - depending when that date does roll around - and I don't think they'd be too pleased if that's all I've lost. Losing that little could be enough to give them an excuse to postpone things longer. I don't want to give them that excuse. They never said exactly how much I had to lose, but I'm pretty sure they meant more than a couple of kilos. So, I'm disappointed in how little I've lost.
I've decided to deal with it by thinking of it like this: that weight loss was great, and I'm happy for me. But it would be fantastic if I could see a larger decrease in my weight when I go back for my second shot.
Now I just have to figure out how to make that happen.
***~~~***
The photo above is of some cuddly animals I got recently, which I kept meaning to post about, but didn't get around to even having Kelly sort photos of until now. They're Peter Rabbit - yes, he's an actual small Peter Rabbit cuddly toy - Marie the kitten, and another rabbit named Aurora.
Peter Rabbit came in an Easter egg. OK, OK, I admit it! I brought the egg myself so I could get the toy. The chocolate egg was nice too, but I brought it because I wanted the toy. I'm pretty sure the reason it was available was because of the new Peter Rabbit movie, but I haven't actually seen that, and it was my love for Beatrix Potter's books - which I've been enjoying since my Nan used to read them to us when we were little - that made me want him. There was a Flopsy Bunny one too, but I didn't get a chance to go back for it due to ending up in hospital, and they weren't doing them any more by the time I was home. I should have grabbed both in the first place. Oh well, never mind. At least I got the Peter Rabbit one.
Marie is an actual teddy of Marie from The Aristocats movie. It's one of the movies my brother, Carl, and I have loved since we were young. It was actually Carl who brought me Marie. She was a get well present from him after my Easter weekend hospital stay.
Aurora was sent to me by my Mam, and got her name because it was how she was listed on Amazon, and we thought it was a pretty name. She's to come to hospital with me when I finally have my surgery, because Mam won't be able to visit due to her own health issues. Mam sent her to me around the start of June, just to make sure I had her before my surgery date rolls around. It was only afterwards we learned of the need to wait three to six months. But Aurora is here now, and sat on my desk waiting to be packed along with the other stuff I'll be taking in to hospital when the time comes. Oh, well, better for her to be waiting a while than not make it in time.
***~~~***
The St Leonards festival happens in late June or early July - most often June - every year. This year it happened on June 30th. We didn't go, because of a combination of my being exhausted from having gone out the day before, and the fact we only remembered exactly which day it was this year when I heard drums in the distance. Well, more the second thing... Erm... Oops!
Anyway, we grabbed a couple of shots of the marching band when they were passing near where we live, so here are the couple of photos we got:
It's too soon to know if it's going to do anything, but I thought those who have been following my medical news would want to know I've had it. The next shot is scheduled for August 10th at 2:30pm.
While I was there, I had them weigh me.
I lost half a kilo (a little over a pound).
I'm not sure how I feel about it.
On the one hand, I'm pleased, because any weight loss is a good thing, and losing weight slowly is the best way. After all, they say losing weight slowly means it's easier to keep it off. So, if it was after my surgery, and I was just doing this to slowly get myself in to better shape, I'd be happy with even that small weight loss. I know I'm trying, and that it will get easier in time, but that the reason it wasn't much is because pushing myself to my limits still doesn't mean I'm getting anywhere near as much exercise as I should be. I know things will improve for me in time, and - as I said - if this was after my surgery, so it was only myself I had to answer to, I'd be happy that things are moving in the right direction, all be it slowly.
On the other hand, since I have to convince the gynecologists I'm trying, I'm a bit upset that I only lost that much. I need to lose more than I have been if I'm going to have enough of a decrease in weight to satisfy them. That half a kilo was in four weeks. If I only lose that much every four weeks, I'll only manage to lose two or three kilos before the surgery date rolls around - depending when that date does roll around - and I don't think they'd be too pleased if that's all I've lost. Losing that little could be enough to give them an excuse to postpone things longer. I don't want to give them that excuse. They never said exactly how much I had to lose, but I'm pretty sure they meant more than a couple of kilos. So, I'm disappointed in how little I've lost.
I've decided to deal with it by thinking of it like this: that weight loss was great, and I'm happy for me. But it would be fantastic if I could see a larger decrease in my weight when I go back for my second shot.
Now I just have to figure out how to make that happen.
***~~~***
The photo above is of some cuddly animals I got recently, which I kept meaning to post about, but didn't get around to even having Kelly sort photos of until now. They're Peter Rabbit - yes, he's an actual small Peter Rabbit cuddly toy - Marie the kitten, and another rabbit named Aurora.
Peter Rabbit came in an Easter egg. OK, OK, I admit it! I brought the egg myself so I could get the toy. The chocolate egg was nice too, but I brought it because I wanted the toy. I'm pretty sure the reason it was available was because of the new Peter Rabbit movie, but I haven't actually seen that, and it was my love for Beatrix Potter's books - which I've been enjoying since my Nan used to read them to us when we were little - that made me want him. There was a Flopsy Bunny one too, but I didn't get a chance to go back for it due to ending up in hospital, and they weren't doing them any more by the time I was home. I should have grabbed both in the first place. Oh well, never mind. At least I got the Peter Rabbit one.
Marie is an actual teddy of Marie from The Aristocats movie. It's one of the movies my brother, Carl, and I have loved since we were young. It was actually Carl who brought me Marie. She was a get well present from him after my Easter weekend hospital stay.
Aurora was sent to me by my Mam, and got her name because it was how she was listed on Amazon, and we thought it was a pretty name. She's to come to hospital with me when I finally have my surgery, because Mam won't be able to visit due to her own health issues. Mam sent her to me around the start of June, just to make sure I had her before my surgery date rolls around. It was only afterwards we learned of the need to wait three to six months. But Aurora is here now, and sat on my desk waiting to be packed along with the other stuff I'll be taking in to hospital when the time comes. Oh, well, better for her to be waiting a while than not make it in time.
***~~~***
The St Leonards festival happens in late June or early July - most often June - every year. This year it happened on June 30th. We didn't go, because of a combination of my being exhausted from having gone out the day before, and the fact we only remembered exactly which day it was this year when I heard drums in the distance. Well, more the second thing... Erm... Oops!
Anyway, we grabbed a couple of shots of the marching band when they were passing near where we live, so here are the couple of photos we got:
Friday, July 13, 2018
#FurkidFriday: A Photo And Video Of Joshua The #Degu From June 2018
Hi everyone. This is Joshua the degu.
The human caretakers took this photo of me a month ago, right after sorting out some fresh hay for my nesting box, and changing the sawdust in the tray thing under my cage. I thought you'd like to see it, so here it is:
They did a video too, which explains why they stood there pointing the flashy thing at me without it doing the flashing... I wondered at the time what that was about. Anyway, here's the video:
Hope you enjoyed seeing my photo and video.
Oh, and don't mind the barking in the background of my video... That's just the Lilie dog.
Squeak soon,
Joshua
The human caretakers took this photo of me a month ago, right after sorting out some fresh hay for my nesting box, and changing the sawdust in the tray thing under my cage. I thought you'd like to see it, so here it is:
They did a video too, which explains why they stood there pointing the flashy thing at me without it doing the flashing... I wondered at the time what that was about. Anyway, here's the video:
Hope you enjoyed seeing my photo and video.
Oh, and don't mind the barking in the background of my video... That's just the Lilie dog.
Squeak soon,
Joshua
Wednesday, July 11, 2018
#WriterWednesday - Tools Of The Telling Trade In Reality And Fiction - #FortuneTelling #Runes #Tarot
Charles - yes, the same Charles with a recent fantasy book release that's on sale throughout July, which I posted about here - did a series of posts on his blog recently about some of the tools of the fortune telling trade.
The purpose of these posts was to briefly look at some of the tools of the trade in real life, as well as how they can - and do - get used in fiction. It's not an in-depth look, but I found the posts - along with some of the comments left on them - interesting, so thought I'd give them a mention.
If you'd like to check them out, you can do so on his blog. Here are the links:
In case you're interested: I'm a Scorpio, born on a day when the moon was in Cancer, in the year of the rat. So my Sun sign is Scorpio, my Moon sign is Cancer, and my Chinese Zodiac sign is the Wood Rat. Thought I'd mention all three versions of my zodiac signs that I know exist, just to be thorough. If you know of any others, I'd be interested to hear about them.
The purpose of these posts was to briefly look at some of the tools of the trade in real life, as well as how they can - and do - get used in fiction. It's not an in-depth look, but I found the posts - along with some of the comments left on them - interesting, so thought I'd give them a mention.
If you'd like to check them out, you can do so on his blog. Here are the links:
In case you're interested: I'm a Scorpio, born on a day when the moon was in Cancer, in the year of the rat. So my Sun sign is Scorpio, my Moon sign is Cancer, and my Chinese Zodiac sign is the Wood Rat. Thought I'd mention all three versions of my zodiac signs that I know exist, just to be thorough. If you know of any others, I'd be interested to hear about them.
Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Sally's Cafe And Bookstore Summer #Sale Now On!
Sally is posting about books that are on sale.
!My books get a mention in one of the posts, but I'm just one of several authors mentioned, and there are plenty more posts planned to tell you about others with books on sale.
So, check out the posts in Sally's Cafe And Bookstore Summer Sale, and grab some bargain books.
Hurry! The sales won't last forever!
!My books get a mention in one of the posts, but I'm just one of several authors mentioned, and there are plenty more posts planned to tell you about others with books on sale.
So, check out the posts in Sally's Cafe And Bookstore Summer Sale, and grab some bargain books.
Hurry! The sales won't last forever!
Monday, July 09, 2018
#Music Monday: Bryan Adams - (Everything I Do) I Do It For You
B is for Bryan Adams, who - if you don't know - has duel Canadian and British citizenship, like Kelly does (though I think his is based on residency duration, so not for the same reason Kelly has it). Anyway, it had to be "Everything I do" that I shared, because it's my favourite of his, and the first one that comes to mind when I think of him. So, here it is... Enjoy!
Sunday, July 08, 2018
Of Medical Mutterings, Outings, #Tofu, #Jackfruit, And Internet Woes
I started trying to go out with Kelly and Lilie for some of their walks even before my letter from the gynecologist reached the doctor. It's been tough on me to do so, but with no guarantee the shots will work and make the bleeding stop, I didn't dare wait, even though the usual advice you get from a doctor is not to do anything that makes your symptoms worse if you feel dizzy. I need to do what I can to reduce my weight before my surgery date rolls around after all, and the gynecologist made it clear I was to do so no matter how I was feeling. I knew this from my last gynecology appointment, and am especially aware of this fact after getting my copy of the gynecologist's letter to the doctor, which says what it was meant to - about how I'm now on the waiting list, because they've agreed to do the surgery, how they're insisting Kelly be the one to sign the consent form, and that they've established that I know the risks, etc, but need those shots to try and stop the bleeding and decrease the risks to me for issues while trying to exercise - but it also says what I'd suspected, though been unable to confirm was the case, about how the reason they weren't doing the surgery right away was because they were intentionally delaying things to get me to lose some weight first. I'm a bit annoyed about that, but there's not much I can do, except do all I can to get at least a slight decrease in weight, so they don't use it as an excuse to try and delay things further, and hope these shots do what they're supposed to. So, I've been going out with Kelly and Lilie a couple of times a week.
I can't do more than that yet. Between the stairs being hard on me in general, and the strain all the bleeding has put on my body, even that much is pushing me to my limits at the moment. In fact, Kelly's very nearly ended up calling me an ambulance a couple of times. Not having been able to do much for the past several months - and not being much better for a few years before that - meant it was really hard on me. Maybe I wouldn't have been quite so bad if I didn't have to do the stairs too. On the other hand, having to do those might help with the weight loss. Just trying to think positive.
Dealing with the stairs wouldn't be quite so bad if I could take them a few at a time and then rest a while. But I can't. I can't risk being sat on the stairs when that neighbour wants to go in and out. Our other neighbours would understand, and give me the time I need to rest, or to move for them to pass, or whatever. But she wouldn't. Though she seems to have taken quite a disliking to Kelly, she's not quite as bad to me as to everyone else, but she's still rude and unpleasant to me - not to mention, has this thing about insisting she has to be physically touching a blind person when speaking to one, so insists on touching my arm or trying to hold my hand, which I hate, especially when she's doing it while yelling at me - so I wouldn't want to be there trying to rest a bit when she wanted to pass, even if the police hadn't already said I was to avoid it happening. But I don't want to talk about her if I can help it. So... Moving on...
Despite some comments made by a couple of people who think I'm not doing enough to try and lose weight, most of me knows I shouldn't be pushing myself as hard as I am. Unfortunately, as I mentioned above, it's been made clear to me that weight loss is essential, regardless of how I'm feeling. So I don't feel I have much choice. It's push myself like this, or risk them using a lack of weight loss to delay my surgery date even further. They won't take me off the list now that I'm on it, but they might try and delay things, so I'm trying not to give them an excuse to do so. I'm hoping the shots will do their job, and the lack of bleeding combined with the exercise I'm now getting will mean it starts getting easier. Can but hope, right?
As it turns out, it's actually a good thing I didn't wait for them to do the shots first - despite the near hospital trips that have resulted from my not waiting - since I haven't even had the first shot yet, so would have lost an entire month waiting for them. Yes, it's almost a month later, and I'm still waiting for the first shot.
I got my copy of the letter from the gynecologist a week after my appointment, but the surgery was insisting they didn't have their copy even after that. When I called after a week, they said they only get letters that quickly if it's an emergency situation, which this wasn't, so I should call back the following week. When I did, they said it takes about two weeks after the date the letter is sent out from the hospital for it to get to them, and another day or so for it to be on the system and checked by a doctor, so I needed to give them a bit longer, and they suggested that maybe I should call back the following week. When I called again this past Thursday - three weeks after my appointment with the gynecologist, and two weeks after I got my copy of the letter - they finally had my letter, so I was able to make an appointment to go in for the shot.
Throughout this entire thing, they were insisting they, "Can understand my situation."
I managed to resist the urge to tell them they obviously can't, or they wouldn't let things drag out like this, especially since I'd even mentioned the near hospital trips during my attempts at getting the exercise the gynecologist insists I make sure to get. I even managed to resist the urge to point out how ridiculous it is that things take as long as they do, and that it shouldn't be the case. But only just.
I wonder if they'd have sped things up if those near hospital trips had been actual trips to the hospital?
Anyway, I've got an appointment to go for the first shot on Friday July 13th at 1:50pm. That's this coming Friday afternoon.
Oh, and speaking of delays in medical related things getting sorted out: despite being told he'd get it sorted within six weeks, Kelly still doesn't have a date for having that lump drained. Every time he calls to chase it up - which he's done a few times now - they just point out that he's on the waiting list, and tell him he'll hear something soon. *Sigh*
OK, back to the outings thing...
Kelly and Lilie usually go out every day, but I've only been going with them on Mondays and Fridays, making use of the benches along the seafront, and picking one of the local cafes to rest at for a drink or lunch sometimes, so I can deal with it a little easier (trying to find a balance between using cafes to rest, and being careful how much we spend while out, because of trying to save to move). It's still really hard on me though, and I'm too exhausted to do anything else for the rest of that day. I'm not much better the following day either. This is part of the reason it's only twice a week at the moment. As it is I'm pushing myself to my limits.
Lilie thinks it's great though. Not how hard it is on me, but the fact I'm joining them on the walks. Plus, my needing to rest while we're out means we end up staying out for a long time, and she gets to say, "Hi," to a lot of people and other dogs, which she loves. Sometimes we meet them while we're walking, sometimes they walk by while I'm taking a short rest. Sometimes they pass by while we're sat having a drink or lunch at one of the cafes. Lilie doesn't really mind which is the case. She loves everyone - human or otherwise - and loves being outside in general.
I have to admit, despite how hard it is on me, I am glad to be getting out of the house sometimes for more than medical appointments.
Luckily, we've had a lot of nice weather, which helps with the being outside thing, since it makes us want to be out there.
In mid June, temperatures were hovering around the high teens. Mostly around 19 degrees C (70 F). By the end of June, the average temperature was hovering around 23 degrees C (78 F). During this past week though, temperatures have been more like 26 degrees C (84 F). Bearing in mind, that's with the nice breeze coming in off the ocean to cool things down some. Many places - especially those without access to the coastal breezes - have had temperatures much hotter. I think I'll stick to our temperatures, thank you very much! As it is, many days have had me staying close to the fan, and wishing we had air conditioning.
We've had a few storms too, though not really any big ones, and they've been wind storms - no rain. I've enjoyed listening to them though. I've also enjoyed the way they tend to take the edge off the heat for a while just after their over. Not as well as a rain storm would, but it helps a little. Another benifit to living this close to the ocean.
As I said though, the weather makes us want to be outside. Especially since both Oscars and The Goat's Ledge are right on the seafront, so we get the full benifit of the ocean breeze during most of our walk to and from them, as well as while we're there.
Speaking of which: the photo at the top of this post was taken during one of those outings. It was taken while we were having lunch at the Goat's Ledge cafe. It's one that's only recently opened, and is along the seafront (as I just mentioned above). The photo in this post was taken the day we first tried it. We were actually sat at one of the picnic tables outside the cafe when the photo was taken. Unfortunately, though there were a couple of boats out on the water, I'm told I just missed getting a boat in the shot. Oh, well, never mind. Plenty of ocean for you, which was the whole point of taking the photo.
Here are a couple more ocean shots for you. These two were taken this past Friday (July 6th) while we were sat on one of the picnic tables that are actually on the beach, enjoying the ocean breeze, and waiting for our food order.
The place now known as "Goat's Ledge" used to be a fish and chip shop, but now it does more of a variety of foods. They still do fish and chips, but they also do salads, and cater to vegetarians and vegans. The guy who owns it now is the guy with the ice-cream cart that goes along the seafront most days. His ice-cream and sorbet is excellent, so we thought we'd try his actual cooking. Turns out that's great too. He does a fantastic tofu burger, and was even nice enough to make me one when we showed up earlier than the time he usually starts cooking them (he starts making things like that after noon, but made me one when we got there around 11:30am). He's a wonderful guy who really cares about his customers. He went and sorted me out a sorbet the other day too, when I wanted one and he was late bringing the ice-cream cart out because things were so busy. The service is absolutely fantastic - in fact, as I said, he really cares about his customers, and is prepared to put in a bit of extra effort just to make them happy - the food is delicious, and there are outside tables we can sit at with Lilie (he even provides a bowl of water for dogs who are sat out there, though it wouldn't matter too much to us if he didn't, since we always take water and a bowl with us for Lilie anyhow).
I don't often take photos of my lunch to post. I did this time though, so here are a couple of shots of my tofu burger and fries:
By the way, speaking of tofu: Carol Taylor was talking about it on her blog recently, and asking for tips, because she wanted to try tofu, but wasn't sure where to start. When she learned I'd had tofu several times, she asked me to write a guest post for her about tofu. I pointed out I'm far from being an expert, but since she still seemed enthusiastic about the idea of me writing what I could anyhow, I put something together for her. If you're interested, you can read my tofu post here.
Something I didn't think to add in the post is that you can make your tofu firmer. Simply place it between two pieces of kitchen roll (paper towels) on a hard surface, and then press down on it with a chopping board. The more you do this, the more of the moisture will be removed, and the firmer your tofu will become.
In other food related news:
I like to make most of my food from scratch, or have Kelly do so for me, that way I know for sure what's in what I'm eating. But I do often buy some vegetarian friendly burgers, sausages, or quiches (checking ingredients carefully when I do). I use them for those days when nobody has the energy to deal with much food preparation, we're really busy, or whatever, but I don't want to be ordering take-away. Anyway, I spotted something called "Vegetarian & Vegan Edamame, Asparagus & Mint Burgers" when ordering my groceries a few weeks back. I think it was in early June. Regardless of exactly when it was, I thought they sounded interesting, so I brought some to try. They turned out to be quite tasty. They're kind of messy to eat, since they don't stay together too well, which also means you'd need to put them on something if you wanted to grill them. But they tasted really good, which is the important thing. My Mam - who isn't a vegetarian, but often likes to observe "Meat Free Mondays" - tried them too, and also really enjoyed them.
I also recently tried jackfruit for the first time. Oscars - which is a cafe I've mentioned before that's along the seafront, and that we like - has it on their menu. Since I hadn't ever tried it, but wanted to, I ordered one of their jackfruit subs, which is one of their vegetarian options (but can be veganized by asking them not to add any mayo). It was delicious!
Not sure what jackfruit is? Read this post to find out what it is, how to use it, etc. There's also information - along with a couple of recipes - in Carol's jackfruit post, which is part of the "Fruity Fridays" post series she's been running on her blog.
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Long time followers of my blog may be familiar with my blog's post rating system, details of which appeared on my blog's sidebar. Don't worry if you aren't. For those who aren't, this is the rating system list:
- AED or AED = Avoid eating and drinking while reading this post... Failure to do so could result in choking and/or the contents of your mouth ending up all over your monitor, for reasons that will become clear when reading this post
- FD = Food discussed... Those who get hungry when food is discussed may wish to grab something to snack on (unless an AED rating is also added)
- LBE = Long blog entry... You may want to grab a snack and/or a drink to keep you going to the end (a quick bathroom break is advised too)
- PTMI = Possibly too much info... May contain parts that some consider too much info, too gross to have shared, etc...
- R/WP = Rant, or whiney post... Sorry! But sometimes you need a good whine or rant. Posts with this rating may contain offensive language!
Well, I should say it "was" the list, because I'm no longer bothering with it, and have removed it from the sidebar. If I need to add one of the warnings... Most importantly the last two... I can do so in the post itself.
The post rating letters may appear on some upcoming posts, since I already had some scheduled before I decided this. I don't think there are any this applies to, but if you see the letters after today, it means I didn't bother to go in and remove them from an already scheduled post. But any posts I create from today onwards definitely won't use the system.
Why?
For one thing, there were people still asking what the letters stood for, so I know it sometimes caused confusion that way. For another thing, the rise in the use of hashtags could potentially cause extra confusion when my posts are shared on social media, since a lot of them are shortened to a selection of letters like that, and I've seen a few not too far removed from those I use for different purposes. So I decided not to bother with them any more, especially since I'm making use of hashtags to potentially boost post visibility. But I thought I'd mention it, for the benifit of those who do remember what the letters in brackets in my post titles are about, who might miss them once they're no longer being used.
By the way, speaking of social media and the sharing of blog posts:
Networked blogs has suspended their services, so I now have to share my posts across social media myself. So - for the benifit of anyone who finds my posts via social media - I thought I'd let you know that's the reason behind any delays between my posts going live and them being shared. As much as I try to, I can't always get on here at exactly 10:00am UK time to share my posts as soon as they go live.
Apparently I also have to share my own posts to my Google+ profile now, which is weird, since they're supposed to go on there via an automatic feed like the one on Goodreads, and my Google+ profile is what I log in to Blogger with, so you'd think that would work fine. Guess not. At least Goodreads is still automatically getting my posts. Hope that doesn't stop, since I don't have a Goodreads sharing button.
Also, it seems Facebook has changed how their pages work enough that my Twitter posts will no longer automatically post on there - or, if they are posting, I sure can't see them - so I now have to go and post on my page whenever I want something to show up there too. My Twitter posts still come through on my personal profile, but not on the page. This is annoying, because JAWS hates Facebook as it is, and the pages are even harder for it to accept. I might have to put the Facebook Page Manager on my phone. After all, Facebook itself works better for me via the app on my phone, so maybe the page manager will too? Like I said, I might have to try it. In the meantime, at least I can share my blog posts to my page via my own sharing buttons below each of my posts.
On a similar note:
I had some issues recently with the new backgrounds feature on Facebook. I posted about it on my personal Facebook profile, and Chris wrote a post about on his blog for me. Loads of people shared the post, and I contacted Facebook about the issue the same day Chris and I posted about it. A few days later, I noticed I was once more able to read those posts, and it was back to telling me what background had been chosen. So, it looks like they fixed the issue - as Chris reported on my behalf here - which is nice. I decided to still mention it here though, just so you're aware that it could happen... In case someone from Facebook fiddles with the settings again. I hope they won't now they know it's a potential issue though. Also, I wanted to mention it as an example of what can happen if people work together towards a positive resolution for a problem.
Now, if only I could figure out why I'm no longer getting notifications about things being added to the YouTube channels I follow, even though I've got it set to send me notifications...
Is it just me, or has anyone else noticed that settings for a lot of online things have gotten messed up lately?
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