tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30251462527958913912024-03-12T15:23:01.121-07:00... where the words take you............cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.comBlogger173125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-38475947498782023072016-02-28T09:50:00.001-08:002016-02-28T09:50:35.586-08:00Reviewers - An Author's BFF<div class="mceTemp" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 24px;">
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<dt class="wp-caption-dt" style="-webkit-user-drag: none;"><a data-mce-href="http://candacejthomas.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Daniella.jpg" href="http://candacejthomas.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Daniella.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-217" style="-webkit-user-drag: none;"><img alt="" class="wp-image-217" data-mce-src="http://candacejthomas.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Daniella.jpg" src="http://candacejthomas.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Daniella.jpg" height="455" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; display: block; height: auto; max-width: 100%;" width="250" /></a></dt>
<dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="-webkit-user-drag: none; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px; padding-top: 0.5em;"> One of my favorite fans - Daniela</dd></dl>
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Whenever you meet authors at conferences or conventions, what is one thing we always say, besides the heart-felt THANK YOU? I think it goes something like this:<br />
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<em><strong>"I hope you love it. And here's my card and information, so you can follow what I'm doing. If you can, write a review. I'd love to know what you think."</strong></em></div>
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I like to take time and thank those who invest in me as an author. I couldn't be more sincere in my appreciation for choosing my series over the sea of other authors - and I mean every word. As crazy as this sounds, I didn't start in this business to sell books, but to create art and find readers and keep them coming back. However, selling is the inevitability, or authors will cease to exist. Books are art, a creative expression and collaboration, but they are also a business, and artists like myself are losing.</div>
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There is a price with selling, and not just the cost of the book. I've said many times that authors are the worst at selling their books. Unless they have a knock-out elevator pitch, they frankly know too much about the story. Where should we start? What would grab their attention? What part would they like most? I think they'd like all the parts. And like Tommy Boy, we inevitably, kill the sale.</div>
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So, when I have someone interested, and I know they will absolutely love it, and YES, they bought a book - it's a celebration. I have a new best friend, a fan, and they are so precious to me.</div>
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Many of my readers I meet at cons or author events, where I'm present to sign their books and talk with the readers one-on-one. Many are teens and aspiring writers. I love that interaction. I'd never trade it.</div>
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<a data-mce-href="http://candacejthomas.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/12039499_10101364253906231_2632341432076338814_n.jpg" href="http://candacejthomas.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/12039499_10101364253906231_2632341432076338814_n.jpg" rel="attachment wp-att-397"><img alt="12039499_10101364253906231_2632341432076338814_n" class="alignleft wp-image-397 size-medium" data-mce-src="http://candacejthomas.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/12039499_10101364253906231_2632341432076338814_n-225x300.jpg" src="http://candacejthomas.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/12039499_10101364253906231_2632341432076338814_n-225x300.jpg" height="300" style="float: left; height: auto; margin: 0.5em 1em 0.5em 0px; max-width: 100%;" width="225" /></a>But, here is the problem that I have, it doesn't translate to sales on Amazon.</h3>
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Amazon is a juggernaut, driving sales of our products and controlling a lot of what we can do as authors. The truth is we have to play the Amazon game in order to show PROOF we are a validated author. The main way on Amazon to prove our validity is through reviews. If someone buys my book on Amazon, an email will be generated and asks for a customer review. If you buy an ebook, it's an easy click to review and you're done.</div>
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So, as much as I love meeting and talking with readers, it doesn't turn my rating on Amazon.</div>
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Amazon is so big that a small fish like me is not going to matter that much to them. I am in the invisible bottom-feeding ocean, along with the other creative creatures that flounder, making their own way to survive. I've been swimming in the ratings around hundreds of thousands for a while, until I learned a few secrets. There is a magic number of reviews, if you didn't know, that needs to be met in order for Amazon to pay attention to you. Once you hit that number Amazon is like, "Hey, this might make us money. Let's pair it with this and see if we can get more hits?" Do you get those emails or bottom scrolls that show you this? It's a game of numbers. As an author, I have zero control over this. It's completely in reviewers' hands.</div>
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<a data-mce-href="http://goodreads.com" href="http://goodreads.com/" target="_blank">Goodreads</a>, owned by Amazon, has become a good friend. Readers love networking with other readers and authors- it's a symbiotic relationship existing in an internet realm all about books. Several of my readers are a part of this world as well and celebrate their thoughts in this cyber-community. But, I'm having the same kind of breakdown with my readers, not because of the cultivation, but because of the age - several of my readers are not on Goodreads or Amazon, because, candidly, they are not old enough.</div>
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Isn't that a funny conundrum?</h5>
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There are other ways to break the Amazon code, but several I don't have control over. Sell a lot in one day, Amazon pays attention. Kindle-Unlimited is an amazing tool if you have control of your books. Setting up a FREE book through them could spike your rating to INFINITY, but being with a small press, I don't have that freedom or control either. There are so many circumstantial variations to this game, what works for some, doesn't always work for others. Nothing is going to work the same for everyone, so please don't hurry and run out and sign up for these programs thinking you'll be an overnight success. But what I am coming to understand is my limitations with control when it comes to Amazon - you have to play or you drown.</div>
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So, I've come up with a plan...</h2>
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As a reward for finishing the hardest book I've ever written, my third and concluding novel to my series, EVERSTAR, I thought about rewarding myself. I wanted an art piece, something I could frame and display in my home, a reminder of this staggering accomplishment. I contacted Khai Vinh of <a data-mce-href="http://ghostillustrations.com/" href="http://ghostillustrations.com/">Ghost Illustrations.com</a> and commissioned a painting of my world. What he came up with is beyond stunning. He drew for me Southwick, the southern most point and the capital in my world of Parbraven. He captured it at the most pivotal point in the series, simply put - at the end. The artwork is full of secrets only a fan would notice and I decided that this couldn't be just for me, this needs to be shared.</div>
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And this is where all of you come in.<br />
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I'm giving a print of this beautiful painting exclusively to those who place a review on Amazon or Goodreads. It seriously is something I'm so proud of and special to me. To share it with you makes me warm inside. I had a parent post for her son, who loved my books, but didn't have an amazon account, so it's still possible if you want your kids to have some wall art in their room. </div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', 'bitstream charter', times, serif;">Click here: </span><a data-mce-href="http://candacejthomas.com/write-a-review/" href="http://candacejthomas.com/write-a-review/" style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', 'bitstream charter', times, serif;">WRITE A REVIEW</a><br />
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This link will take you to my page where you can fill out your name, email, and where you posted. I'll follow up and send you one of these posters FREE! I'll even sign it if you like. I'm looking for honest reviews, of course. Fives stars are wonderful, but I know that my book is not everyone's taste. Readers needs to know if this book is for them. This is my THANK YOU for taking your time and sharing your thoughts on my art.</div>
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Authors need you. Regardless of where you bought the book, reviews are IMPORTANT. They are an essential part of a delicate author ecosystem, like algae to coral reef, a sustainable resource that can keep us creating, producing, and gifted back to you. The only way we survive in such a huge ocean is with a little help from our friends - you, our readers.</div>
cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-84405585294741887242016-01-27T20:26:00.001-08:002016-01-30T10:54:46.639-08:00Kingdom City Revolt - Discussions with author Ben Ireland<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smarmy Aussie Author Ben Ireland</td></tr>
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AUTHORS speak the same language, the complex language of creation. I love talking with authors who speak this language, especially
those new within my circle. I can’t say Ben Ireland is new, since we are both
in the Fantasy anthology <a href="http://amzn.to/1PCcPqL">MOMENTS IN MILLENNIA</a>, but his friendship is new. He
moved to my state and very close to my city, and he received a quick education
about my working and writing relationships within the community. I’ve liked his work as an author,
and it’s fun to put the narrative voice to a face. <o:p></o:p></div>
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MEET BEN IRELAND – Author of the <a href="http://www.benirelandbooks.com/">KINGDOM CITY SERIES</a> with
the newest release REVOLT available January 31<sup>st</sup>. Don't let the last name fool you, he's a native of
Australia, (WHOOO!) which automatically makes him charming like Hugh Jackman, growing up with dingoes and didgeridoos and listening to Men At Work. He delves in the Urban Fantasy realm - imagine a mash-up
including <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20rel=%22nofollow%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/076536543X/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=076536543X&linkCode=as2&tag=candacejthoma-20&linkId=4HBGN7P5ZNQICNCN%22%3EMistborn%20Trilogy%20Boxed%20Set%20(Mistborn,%20The%20Hero%20of%20Ages,%20&%20The%20Well%20of%20Ascension)%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=candacejthoma-20&l=as2&o=1&a=076536543X%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Mistborn</a>, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/AUTHORS%20speak%20the%20same%20language%20comprised%20of%20hardships,%20rejection,%20and%20creation.%20I%20love%20talking%20with%20authors%20who%20speak%20this%20language,%20especially%20those%20new%20within%20my%20circle.%20I%20can%E2%80%99t%20say%20Ben%20Ireland%20is%20new,%20since%20we%20are%20both%20in%20the%20Fantasy%20anthology%20MOMENTS%20IN%20MILLENNIA,%20but%20his%20friendship%20is%20new.%20He%20moved%20to%20my%20state%20and%20very%20close%20to%20my%20city,%20and%20he%20received%20a%20quick%20education%20about%20our%20working%20and%20writing%20relationships.%20I%E2%80%99ve%20liked%20his%20work%20as%20an%20author,%20and%20it%E2%80%99s%20fun%20to%20put%20the%20narrative%20voice%20to%20a%20face.%20%20%20MEET%20BEN%20IRELAND%20%E2%80%93%20Author%20of%20the%20KINGDOM%20CITY%20SERIES%20with%20the%20newest%20release%20REVOLT%20available%20January%2031st.%20A%20native%20of%20Australia%20(WHOOO!),%20he%20delves%20in%20the%20Urban%20Fantasy%20realm,%20much%20like%20a%20mash-up%20including%20Mistborn,%20Dresden%20Files,%20and%20the%20Fifth%20Element%E2%80%94solid,%20action-packed,%20complex%20storytelling%20at%20its%20finest.%20AND%20one%20of%20the%20coolest%20maps%20I%E2%80%99ve%20ever%20seen%20in%20a%20%20http://www.benirelandbooks.com/%20%20%20Do%20people%20think%20you're%20so%20cool%20and%20fascinating%20because%20you're%20Australian?%20I%20know%20I%20do.%20Strangers%20often%20ask%20me%20to%20say%20things%20like%20%E2%80%98Throw%20a%20shrimp%20on%20the%20Barbie.%E2%80%99%20%20If%20you%20ever%20hear%20me%20say%20that,%20you%20know%20I%20like%20you.%20A%20lot.%20Talk%20to%20me%20about%20your%20series,%20about%20this%20book.%20Kingdom%20City:%20Revolt%20is%20part%20two%20of%20the%20Kingdom%20City%20series.%20Without%20meaning%20to,%20it%E2%80%99s%20sort%20of%20ended%20up%20like%20Star%20Wars%E2%80%94meaning%20I%20started%20telling%20the%20story%20from%20the%20middle.%20Think%20of%20the%20Kingdom%20City:%20R%20books%20(Resurrection,%20Revolt,%20and%20for%20now,%20Retribution)%20as%20the%20main%20arc.%20To%20fully%20flesh%20out%20the%20world%20of%20Kingdom%20City,%20I%20wrote%20a%20lot%20about%20how%20it%20came%20to%20be,%20and%20the%20inevitable%20fallout%20of%20the%20R%20arc.%20Those%20scribblings%20have%20become%20the%20outlines%20to%20the%20prequels%20and%20follow%20up%20novel.%20Revolt%20follows%20Paul%20and%20his%20fellow%20police%20officers%20dealing%20with%20the%20aftermath%20of%20the%20events%20in%20book%20one.%20Half%20of%20the%20city%20has%20been%20sealed%20off%20by%20Representative%20Brian%20Shuman,%20and%20he%E2%80%99s%20systematically%20imprisoning%20the%20population%20in%20order%20to%20subject%20them%20to%20excruciating%20cyberization%20operations.%20Paul%20is%20torn%20between%20protecting%20the%20people%20fighting%20for%20their%20lives,%20or%20trying%20to%20save%20his%20family.%20Where%20did%20you%20get%20your%20idea%20for%20Kingdom%20City?%20I%20knew%20I%20wanted%20to%20write%20something%20and%20I%20wanted%20it%20to%20be%20cool.%20I%20thought,%20%E2%80%98what%E2%80%99s%20cool?%20Epic%20swords.%20Epic%20swords%20are%20cool.%E2%80%99%20One%20thing%20lead%20to%20another,%20and%20now%20I%20have%20a%20complex%20dystopian%20series%20that%20covers%20almost%201000%20years.%20Sorry,%20that%20was%20a%20bit%20spoilery.%20Have%20you%20always%20wanted%20to%20be%20a%20writer?%20Not%20in%20so%20many%20words.%20I%E2%80%99ve%20always%20had%20the%20compulsion%20to%20be%20creative%20and%20it%E2%80%99s%20come%20out%20in%20a%20lot%20of%20forms%20over%20the%20years.%20I%20enjoy%20writing%20most%20of%20all%20because%20reading%20is%20what%20really%20got%20me%20through%20my%20tumultuous%20teenage%20years.%20I%20hope%20that%20my%20stories%20can%20help%20some%20kid%20like%20me%20escape%20whatever%20he%E2%80%99s%20dealing%20with%20for%20a%20little%20while.%20To%20help%20him%20know%20that%20there%20is%20someone%20out%20there%20that%20gets%20what%20he%E2%80%99s%20going%20through.%20What%20started%20your%20journey%20in%20writing?%20%20I%E2%80%99ve%20always%20loved%20books%20and%20escaping%20into%20them.%20Kingdom%20City%20is%20what%20started%20me%20writing%20more%20than%20ten%20years%20ago.%20I%20came%20up%20with%20the%20idea%20and%20wrote%20a%20movie%20script.%20When%20I%20was%20done%20I%20looked%20at%20my%20wife%20and%20said%20%E2%80%98what%20the%20hell%20do%20I%20do%20with%20this?%E2%80%99%20she%20replied,%20%E2%80%98turn%20it%20into%20a%20book.%E2%80%99%20She%E2%80%99s%20regretted%20that%20ever%20since.%20Who%20helped%20inspire%20your%20path?%20Any%20books?%20Authors?%20People?%20Early%20on,%20I%20loved%20The%20Hobbit%E2%80%94it%20was%20the%20first%20big-kid%20book%20I%20read%20twice%20(One%20Fish,%20Two%20Fish,%20Red%20Fish,%20Blue%20Fish%20was%20the%20first%20little-kid%20book%20I%20read%20more%20than%20once).%20I%20read%20a%20lot%20of%20Azimov%20growing%20up,%20too.%20Just%20prior%20to%20my%20writing%20really%20taking%20off,%20I%20fell%20in%20love%20with%20Harry%20Potter.%20JK%E2%80%99s%20world%20is%20so%20colorful%20and%20engaging%20it%E2%80%99s%20hard%20to%20not%20fall%20in%20love.%20Today%20I%E2%80%99m%20an%20avid%20fan%20of%20Harry%20Dresden.%20The%20engrossing%20characters%20and%20deep,%20beautiful%20world%20that%20Butcher%20has%20created%20is%20something%20I%E2%80%99m%20constantly%20trying%20to%20emulate.%20What%20makes%20you%20happiest%20in%20life?%20Kisses,%20hugs,%20my%20kids,%20my%20wife,%20popcorn,%20chocolate%20milkshakes.%20Not%20in%20that%20order.%20%20Ben%20is%20an%20outstanding%20guy%20and%20a%20fantastic%20writer.%20Check%20out%20Kingdom%20City%20Series:%20Resurrection%20and%20Revolt%20published%20by%20Xchyler%20Publishing." target="_blank">Dresden Files</a>, and the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20rel=%22nofollow%22%20href=%22http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013UZ6TP6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B013UZ6TP6&linkCode=as2&tag=candacejthoma-20&linkId=N5D7KVOTIACGZ5KW%22%3EThe%20Fifth%20Element%20[Blu-ray]%3C/a%3E%3Cimg%20src=%22http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=candacejthoma-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B013UZ6TP6%22%20width=%221%22%20height=%221%22%20border=%220%22%20alt=%22%22%20style=%22border:none%20!important;%20margin:0px%20!important;%22%20/%3E" target="_blank">Fifth Element</a>—solid, action-packed,
complexity. AND has one of the coolest maps I’ve ever seen
in a series. (Yes, map snob - right here!) Check him out here:<a href="https://www.blogger.com/%C2%A0http://www.benirelandbooks.com/" target="_blank"> http://www.benirelandbooks.com/ </a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Map of Awesomeness</td></tr>
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Let's get to know a little about Ben, shall we?<br />
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<b>Do people think
you're so cool and fascinating because you're Australian? I know I do.</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Strangers often ask me
to say things like ‘Throw a shrimp on the Barbie.’ If you ever hear me
say that, you know I like you. A lot.</i><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<b>Talk to me about your
KINGDOM CITY series and about this newest book REVOLT.</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Kingdom City: Revolt
is part two of the Kingdom City series. Without meaning to, it’s sort of ended
up like Star Wars—meaning I started telling the story from the middle. Think of
the Kingdom City: R books (Resurrection, Revolt, and for now, Retribution) as
the main arc. To fully flesh out the world of Kingdom City, I wrote a lot about
how it came to be, and the inevitable fallout of the R arc. Those scribblings
have become the outlines to the prequels and follow up novel.</i><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xft1/v/t1.0-9/12191816_551415425010648_8177719769435910634_n.jpg?oh=a666b84a5f980e0b8b8b406bd15f6614&oe=5727B3CB" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xft1/v/t1.0-9/12191816_551415425010648_8177719769435910634_n.jpg?oh=a666b84a5f980e0b8b8b406bd15f6614&oe=5727B3CB" width="400" /></a></div>
<i>Revolt follows Paul
and his fellow police officers dealing with the aftermath of the events in book
one. Half of the city has been sealed off by Representative Brian Shuman, and
he’s systematically imprisoning the population in order to subject them to
excruciating cyberization operations. Paul is torn between protecting the
people fighting for their lives, or trying to save his family.</i><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Where did you get
your idea for Kingdom City?</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>I knew I wanted to
write something and I wanted it to be cool. I thought, ‘what’s cool? Epic
swords. Epic swords are cool.’ One thing lead to another, and now I have a
complex dystopian series that covers almost 1000 years. Sorry, that was a bit
spoilery.</i><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><br /></i>
<b>And I love your covers. They have a very graphic novel appeal. Who did your art work?</b><br />
<i>Luke Spooner of Carrion House </i><b></b><br />
<a href="http://carrionhouse.com/">http://carrionhouse.com/</a><b><br /></b><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Have you always
wanted to be a writer?</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Not in so many words.
I’ve always had the compulsion to be creative and it’s come out in a lot of
forms over the years. I enjoy writing most of all because reading is what
really got me through my tumultuous teenage years. I hope that my stories can
help some kid like me escape whatever he’s dealing with for a little while. To
help him know that there is someone out there that gets what he’s going
through.</i><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/10268550_306133432872183_3455482153220653309_n.jpg?oh=3aad1e04681084ad758d280b45fedad0&oe=5735573E" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xta1/v/t1.0-9/10268550_306133432872183_3455482153220653309_n.jpg?oh=3aad1e04681084ad758d280b45fedad0&oe=5735573E" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look! There we are together</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What started your
journey in writing? </b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<i>I’ve always loved
books and escaping into them. Kingdom City is what started me writing more than
ten years ago. I came up with the idea and wrote a movie script. When I was
done I looked at my wife and said ‘what the hell do I do with this?’ she
replied, ‘turn it into a book.’ She’s regretted that ever since.</i><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Who helped inspire
your path? Any books? Authors? People?</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Early on, I loved <b><a href="http://amzn.to/1JGHDum" target="_blank">The Hobbit</a></b>—it was the first big-kid
book I read twice <a href="http://amzn.to/1PCcAvA" target="_blank">(<b>One Fish, Two Fish,Red Fish, Blue Fish</b></a> was the first little-kid book I read more than once). I
read a lot of <b><a href="http://amzn.to/1PCcww3" target="_blank">Azimov</a> </b>growing up,
too. Just prior to my writing really taking off, I fell in love with <b><a href="http://amzn.to/1JGI6g0" target="_blank">Harry Potter</a></b>. JK’s world is so colorful
and engaging it’s hard to not fall in love. Today I’m an avid fan of <b><a href="http://amzn.to/1WOQkEK" target="_blank">Harry Dresden</a></b>. The engrossing
characters and deep, beautiful world that <b>Butcher</b>
has created is something I’m constantly trying to emulate.</i><i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What makes you
happiest in life?</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Kisses, hugs, my kids,
my wife, popcorn, chocolate milkshakes. Not in that order.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ben is an outstanding guy and a fantastic writer. It has been very fun getting to know him better, a breath of fresh air in my dull writing existence. One of my goals in life is to have a convincing Australian accent. Knowing someone with one is nearly as good.<br />
<br />
Check out
Kingdom City Series: Resurrection and Revolt published by <a href="http://www.xchylerpublishing.com/" target="_blank">Xchyler Publishing.</a><br />
<br />
Follow Ben on his International Blog Tour and enter the Rafflecopter for a really cool art from Spooner himself. <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-18662902561305298282015-12-07T04:00:00.000-08:002015-12-07T04:00:12.479-08:00Shadows of Angels - a conversation with author L.G. Rollins<h2>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Excerpt: Shadows of Angels</span></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="background: white;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AQsz4y-Ffdw/VlS1bcEr_rI/AAAAAAAABJQ/zW7Ly4B9LEs/s1600/Shadows%2Bof%2BAngels%2BCover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AQsz4y-Ffdw/VlS1bcEr_rI/AAAAAAAABJQ/zW7Ly4B9LEs/s400/Shadows%2Bof%2BAngels%2BCover.jpg" width="266" /></a><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 7.5pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">"</span><i><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "agaramondpro" , "serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Stay calm,</span></i><i><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "agaramondpro" , "serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></i><span style="background: white; color: #222222; font-family: "agaramondpro" , "serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">her father’s words echoed in
her head.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "agaramondpro" , "serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <i><span style="background: white;">When you find yourself in danger, above all, stay
calm.</span> </i><span style="background: white;">Aerbrin took a deep,
steady breath and leaned down, reaching for her bow. one of the Forest Dwellers
charged. It collided with her and knocked her to the floor. Raising a knotted
fist, he bashed her head.</span></span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "agaramondpro" , "serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Sparks exploded across her vision. She tried to raise an arm,
tried to call out. Her body wouldn’t respond. The Forest Dwellers grunted
again. The creature above her raised its fist again. She looked up. This was
the end, she knew. When these monsters attacked, they killed everything.
Animals, plants, and particularly humans. No one survived.</span></span><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "agaramondpro" , "serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Closing her eyes, Aerbrin forced her body to relax. This time, there
was no pain."</span></span></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
I met Laura (L.G. Rollins) at several author and writer events, the most recent in September at a writer's retreat where I was doing a workshop. I knew immediately that she was my kind of person - fantasy writing book lover, who dreamed in worlds with dragons, fairies, and folklore. I was chuffed to bits when I heard about her book release. I get so excited when writing friends join me in the publishing world.<br />
<br />
Shadows of Angels, published by Cedar Fort, is right up my reading alley.<br />
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">After the forest dwellers destroy her home and kill her father, Aerbrin sets off on a journey to find the trith about her people, her kingdom, and the mysterious Zaad stone that contains a power she never imagined. Magic and mystery join forces in this intriguing fantasy world. Full of shifting alliances and twists you won't see coming, it's a can't miss read.</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I jumped at the chance to talk with Laura about her journey into publishing...</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Garamond","serif"; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-size: 18.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">cjt: <b>So, Laura, have you always wanted to
be a writer? </b></span></span></span><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;"> </span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">lgr: <i>Yes. I started by writing quirky stories and sappy poems when I
was only seven. I wrote a bit during High School, but then decided to 'grow-up'
and do something 'real' when I got to college. After becoming a mom, I needed a
creative outlet to stop me from going insane, and writing just came naturally.
At first it was just a hobby, something I loved doing. But, it wouldn't stay
small. Writing fills my life with a passion that I would be hollow without.</i></span>
<br /> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">cjt: <b>W<span style="color: #222222;">hat started your journey
in writing?</span></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">lgr: <i>My parents were going through some old boxes back when I was
very young, and we found a story my dad had written when he was in elementary
school. It was several pages, all stapled together, with his hand-writing and
hand-drawn pictures of a boy and his dog, named "Bow-wow". Seeing his
book made me think, "I could do this. I could write a story".</i></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">cjt: <b>Who helped inspire your
path? Any books? Authors? People?</b></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">lgr: <i>Yes. Yes. And Yes. Many books, many authors, and many people. As
I said, my dad was my first inspiration. He's a natural story-teller and always
told me that I could become anything I wanted to—even an author. If I tried to
list all the book and authors that inspired me, I'd miss a bunch, or put you to
sleep. There are just so many. Truth be told, every story I have ever
read/seen/heard has impacted my thoughts and changed how I think, how I see
others, how I weave tales.</i></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;"><span></span></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">cjt: <b>I find inspiration hits in random daily occurrences. What inspires you
daily?</b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">lgr: </span><i><span style="color: #222222;">Other stories. I love stories. I'm a total story-junkie. Doesn't
matter if it's a novel, movie, or TV show. I love stories and how they take the
disorganized matter of reality and mold it into something completely
fictional—and yet, in creating the fiction we better see the real.</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">cjt:<b> And last question, what makes you happiest
in life?</b></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">lgr: <i>My family, particularly my husband (aka. Superman). My
relationship with my Savior. And, yes, writing. Writing certainly makes me very
happy. After a good day of writing, doesn't much matter what else happens
during the day, I feel on top-of-the-world happy.</i></span></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Congratulations Laura on the release of your book. I'm so delighted. And if you are interested in learning more about Laura, check out her website at: <a href="http://lgrollins.com/">lgrollins.com</a></span></b></span> </span></span></span>cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-39235304092408565322015-11-10T00:03:00.004-08:002015-11-10T09:52:40.369-08:00The Other Side of the Door - My Epic Journey from Writing to PublishingIn preparation for the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1692758347627584/" target="_blank">SLC "Compel, Polish, Pitch, and Sign" Writer's Conference</a> on Nov. 13-15, I've been reflecting on my own journey into publishing. <i>For those who are attending the conference, just plug your ears :)</i><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ed/48/fd/ed48fd3e0c77acbd33c68b47ba68ec44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/ed/48/fd/ed48fd3e0c77acbd33c68b47ba68ec44.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
Becoming published is a mystery to many writers. Even when I started getting serious about publishing, I had NO CLUE how to get started. Google search can get you places of course, but in many cases, it's the wrong place. Networking with other writers can also help - people who have actually published.<br />
<br />
But it's never the same, each author has to find their own way to publishing, their on path.<br />
<br />
So, imagine a door, whatever kind of door you like. See my door? It's fanciful and unique and extremely interesting. All I ever wanted, in this entire world, was to see what lay beyond this door.<br />
<br />
Here's the problem - there's no path. And there are stickers and briars and thorns of all kinds here and there. Some people find a good path and only get a few scratches, some get lost at the side of the house peering in the frosted glass, and some, like me, got scratched and bruised and bled a little before they got to the door.<br />
<br />
I think this is the more typical answer you will find among those who are published. I really feel like I earned my passage to what's beyond the door.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Bruised from Queries</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
My first attempt to get published was through querying agents, and was a pretty miserable failure. I made some huge errors. I am a Young Adult Fantasy author and my manuscript was 170k words.<br />
<br />
So, let's look at the mistakes I made:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>I queried Young Adult agents. </li>
<li>I had never written queries before.</li>
<li>I didn't understand the difference between synopsis and summary</li>
<li>I had no publishing credits, no awards, no articles, nothing. </li>
<li>I had a big word count.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, I'll quickly breakdown some things for you. In a fantasy genre, a manuscript with 170k might be acceptable for an epic journey, but I was querying the wrong people. I queried YA, where they are looking for 50-100k tops. If they see a 170k word count, all they see is Edit! Edit! Edit! I'm not going to waste my time with this author who obviously doesn't understand how to write for YA.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Also, research how to do a proper query. A candid - "Hey, I'm a writer, and I got this super cool story with fairies and dragons, and I think you'll really like it," is going to get a quick DELETE. During my failure years I joined a local writers chapter and attended a class about writing queries. Boy, what a difference that made. I think the worst person to sell a book is the author. We know too much of the story, what do you focus on? The query class helped me narrow what publishers and agents are looking for. A unique hook, some angle - however slanted, that gets you in the door. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
And the meat of it, I needed some kind of proof I was worth time and money. I had nothing. So, I entered a few small writing contests. I ended up getting an Honorable Mention in a state wide competition and a First Place in my local chapter. This greatly helped my confidence and proved my worth as a writer. When you received multiple rejections you can start to doubt your abilities. Don't ever doubt your talent!<br />
<br />
So, research your agents, enter some competitions, and take time to do a proper query.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
The Scratches Came From Releasing my Book Too Soon </h3>
<br />
After feeling hopeless, feeling no agent would ever pick me up, I looked into Self-Publishing. My dad is a self-published author, granted he writes books on process improvement - very different from me. And at that time (2010 - so long ago) self-publishing was a scary endeavor. But, as a favor to my dad, I looked into it.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5l1bAewCzJI/VkGaDcO1QNI/AAAAAAAABJA/dE-OPM9eMz8/s1600/Naomi%2Bblack%2Bsmudge-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5l1bAewCzJI/VkGaDcO1QNI/AAAAAAAABJA/dE-OPM9eMz8/s320/Naomi%2Bblack%2Bsmudge-2.jpg" width="201" /></a></div>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L4m_Xmi0wXA/SojifYI3A9I/AAAAAAAAARY/8RKZ2Hu48LE/s1600/book%2Bcover1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a>
<br />
Createspace makes everything so easy. They have templates, ISBNs, cover images, formats, pricing guidelines... geez, I was overwhelmed at how much I had to do. I edited down my manuscript to 140k, formatted it, had my sister design my cover, had beta readers test it and write reviews, I swear, I put soooo much work into it and what I came up with was, what I thought at the time, had to be a work of art.<br />
<br />
Yet, this went nowhere. I mean, NOWHERE! The book was still too big to make money. The cover was pretty, but crafty, I couldn't get it into book stores and I had no idea how to market it. As an ebook is flopped in format I knew no other authors. In many ways I felt like a bigger failure.<br />
<br />
A good friend and very avid reader bought it and read it. She liked it, but offered me some advice. "I think you released it too soon." But, I had a finished product! What did she mean "too soon"?<br />
<br />
But she was right. I was in such a hurry to get my book out, that I didn't stop to think if it was ready. Would it be marketable? Would it find readership? If I'm building a brand, would this help me or hurt me? And I STILL didn't know what was beyond the door.<br />
<br />
Self-publishing may work for some, but not for me. You need a lot of confidence in your talents in order to be self-published. I didn't have that. I wanted someone, a professional editor in the business, to tell me what was wrong with my story. I knew there was something, but couldn't see it. So, I yanked it.<br />
<br />
<i>(Side note: I found a copy on Amazon for $800. Fools. All previous copies should be burned.)</i><br />
<br />
<h3>
Signing Made Me Bleed . . . A Lot</h3>
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<br /></div>
<h3>
</h3>
<div>
What? What do you mean? It's the dream, right?<br />
This is absolutely true, and I think several authors would agree with what I'm about to tell you - editing IS the key to the door. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, I shelved my novel and went on to write other things, other projects. I did <a href="http://www.nanowrimo.org/" target="_blank">NaNoWriMo</a> and had some great success there. Summer 2012 I came back to the idea of maybe trying to find a publisher. I had written the sequel and loved it and regained hope in the writing world. This time I took a risk and sent it directly to some publishers, knowing I would be in the slush pile. I re-edited it down to 135k, a slight improvement. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I received one rejection before I found my publisher. <a href="http://www.xchylerpublishing.com/" target="_blank">Xchyler Publishing</a> was the first to acquire my entire manuscript. The acquisition editor, a fine girl named Lissa (who later became my content editor) fell in love with my story and absolutely insisted they have it. I was nervous. I mean, was this the right place for my story? But they were the first to read it. If others read it, maybe they would react the same way. The deciding factor was something that made me think, and something also, that I appreciate to this day - They didn't want to lose the integrity of the story. That was so important to me. I was afraid bigger presses would make me change the story into something that it wasn't, make me add the swearing and the sex that I tried so hard to keep out of it. The whole team wanted this story, my story, to succeed, so I signed with them, and have never regretted it. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here is where I bled.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7YKOS-vjhFo/UU4vbCj0WBI/AAAAAAAAAzw/Ib2iiQCg39Y/s1600/xchylercover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7YKOS-vjhFo/UU4vbCj0WBI/AAAAAAAAAzw/Ib2iiQCg39Y/s320/xchylercover.jpg" width="209" /></a>Editing was an eye-opening experience. I had a main content editor, a line editor, a proof-reader, and then everything had to go through the Editor-in-chief. They did this to refine the story at various levels. It really is magic. In content, they decided to hack a large portion because it slowed the pace (they were right); I had too many POVs and needed to narrow it down to four - so I had to rewrite a lot of the book to accommodate this (and it was a great idea); they asked that I write more chapters from a specific POV of a main character, who was super mysterious, and explore what happens with him to layer the story (wow, okay); and they then asked me to do a writing exercise about this said character, where he grew up and how he got the magic in the first place, something that would NOT appear in the book, but for me to understand my character better (you want me to do what?).<br />
<br />
This was a mountain of work with a pretty intense deadline. I tried hard to keep up with the intensity. I even took a two week LOA from my real job to finish it. I worried about the cover design and stuck with my gut about changing it to a talisman, which turned out beautiful and I love. But, with everything, it was very hard - like ulcer-inducing hard.<br />
<br />
Then three weeks before my book release, I received notification that the company was changing hands. I nearly died. The change was definitely for the better, but at the time, after so much hard work and sweat and blood, I didn't know anything about its future. Even at the time of the release, because of the changing in tax documents and everything that I don't understand, it was slow coming out. But it did and it was beautiful.<br />
<br />
It had been out for a month or so when I thought I would enter it into the League of Utah Writers Novel award that would be announced at their annual conference. I thought, well, it took an Honorable Mention a few years ago here, maybe it might go somewhere. Obviously, I didn't get my hopes up, because I didn't even attend the awards banquet. When I arrived at the Writer's Conference the next day a friend from my chapter ran up to me and said "You won!" my response, "I won what?" "You won Novel of the Year!" <br />
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<a href="https://instagram.com/p/eP2MrRB-sd/" style="color: black; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" target="_blank">... and the winner is Vivatera! Diamond award for Outstanding Novel of the Year! Top prize! I'm kinda freaking out right now. Eeeeh!</a></div>
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A photo posted by Candace Johnson Thomas (@candacejthomas) on <time datetime="2013-09-14T16:31:03+00:00" style="font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px;">Sep 14, 2013 at 9:31am PDT</time></div>
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WHHHHHHAAATTT???? Turns out my novel took TOP PRIZE, the Diamond Award. It won over all the other novels that year, my little fledgling was the best in the whole state!<br />
<br />
This helped me open the door.<br />
<br />
<h3>
What I found on the Other Side of the Door</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
I'm going to tell you, just in case you thought I would keep it a secret from you. It's been a slow-creaky door to open. But I'm most-definitely on the other side.<br />
<br />
There is a room full of people, other authors, packed full - <b>all looking for another door.</b><br />
<br />
Some are desperate, some are casually looking, but there are some that I have found who are willing to help one another find the mysterious hidden door. That's what I'm most impressed by, the cooperative effort made by others to help me succeed. Seems backwards, right? I mean, aren't they also your competition? Actually . . . No, they aren't, they are my peers. I've found better success through a healthy community of authors. It could have been a nasty bludgeoning of jealous rage at the success of one who finds the door, but instead, its the opposite - it's a celebration!<br />
<br />
However you make it to the door will be the right way for you.<br />
It is an epic journey - remember that, and should be one that you are proud of, one that made you bleed a little. Don't be afraid to bleed. <br />
There should be sweat - and heavens above, there better be tears.<br />
Wear your scars with pride.<br />
Don't let the briar patch get you stuck.<br />
And when you get there, push hard on the door.<br />
And never forget - inspire others to find the key.<br />
<br />
I'm just behind the door waiting for you. I have a place reserved at my table and I want to see you there.<br />
<br />
Welcome. <i>(first drink's on me)</i></div>
cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-85098571338927863602015-09-21T04:58:00.000-07:002015-09-21T18:49:38.855-07:00Rebel Yell - Local Authors Unite at Salt Lake Comic Con<h3>
Being an Author is Hard</h3>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ajwvYZKMNkU/Vf_wduwETdI/AAAAAAAABIc/qk3zPCUZKp8/s1600/me%2Band%2Bjohnny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ajwvYZKMNkU/Vf_wduwETdI/AAAAAAAABIc/qk3zPCUZKp8/s320/me%2Band%2Bjohnny.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local author Johnny Worthen and me</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Am I saying that it's not sunshine and kittens after you get published? That's right - well, there is still some sunshine and some cuddly kittens, but most of the time it's really hard work, especially in such a talented community we find in Utah.<br />
<br />
It doesn't matter what type of author you are: Indie, Small Press, Large Press, whatever means you choose - the life of an author is tough stuff.<br />
<br />
In Utah, there is a melding pot of authors - resembling something like a Petri dish as we're surrounded by mountains, isolated from the breathing world, suffocating under the inversion. It's a wonderful world to be a part of, as we feed each other ideas, care about our struggles, cheering successes.<br />
<br />
It can also be a very difficult place to be. As much as we need each other, we are each others' competition, selling to the same small population. There can be jealousy at times, cheering for others, while your own rejection letter still sits in you Inbox.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
But there is still understanding</h3>
<br />
As our community of authors grows, so has our support system. If I've learned anything over the past few years after being published it's how much I NEED other authors, those who understand how difficult it is to write out your soul, have it ripped apart, stitched back together into something pretty, then bound into paper just for you.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSHh1blKpUU/Vf_wcD1djvI/AAAAAAAABIU/kHonh0gAR9Q/s1600/photo%2Bbomb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wSHh1blKpUU/Vf_wcD1djvI/AAAAAAAABIU/kHonh0gAR9Q/s320/photo%2Bbomb.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photobombing Local Author Adrienne Monson</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b></b><br />
<b></b>
<b>TRUTH IS</b> - it is a difficult world regardless of how you've been published. Getting your name out and getting your book into readers hands can be agonizing, humbling work that stripes you down to your core. It's extremely hard for us authors to talk about our own books and why you would love it. We are basically taking our newborn baby, the wonderful thing we've created and asking YOU to take care of it, help it grow, show your friends, trusting YOU with its livelihood.<br />
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
You READERS hold our fate in YOUR hands</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
What YOU think MATTERS </h3>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TvKdEMEqxtU/Vf_tJ3UcUqI/AAAAAAAABIE/Qy-0qeIP38I/s1600/2015-01-30%2B17.44.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TvKdEMEqxtU/Vf_tJ3UcUqI/AAAAAAAABIE/Qy-0qeIP38I/s320/2015-01-30%2B17.44.54.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meeting Jess Harnell at FanX 2015</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Over the last few years <a href="http://saltlakecomiccon.com/" target="_blank">Salt Lake Comic Con</a> has become very important to us. It's become a place where we can find readers - OUR readers. You can find several LOCAL authors, some absolutely terrific people with tremendous talent. As a strong community of authors, we are banding together and uniting ourselves as REBELS, and we are looking for readers to join the alliance.<br />
<br />
There are several things you can be a part of at this year's SLCC:<br />
<ul>
<li>Find the<b> REBEL BASE #3441 </b>- Enter to win a Chris Evans Photo OP <a href="http://bit.ly/chrisevans_slcc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">bit.ly/chrisevans_slcc</a></li>
<li>Find several local authors on <b>PANELS</b> - <a href="http://saltlakecomiccon.com/2015-panel-schedule/" target="_blank">SLCC Schedule</a> </li>
<li>We've created a catalog with several titles in it, full of QR codes for easy look-up</li>
<li>Hashtag fun with <b>#slcc15writers</b></li>
<li>A Treasure Hunt - search for the <b>REBEL INSIGNIA</b> among local authors to be entered for prizes</li>
<li>Find several of the Rebel Alliance in <b>AUTHOR AVENUE and SHADOW MOUNTAIN</b><br /><b></b></li>
</ul>
<br />
Writing is not about us, it's always been about YOU - the reader. You are who matters most to us. It's you we are looking to inspire, you who we make worlds for.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g9dzxKLRMRw/Vf_weqwbVOI/AAAAAAAABIk/vfVYq33DJ1Q/s1600/slcc%2Bbooth%2B14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g9dzxKLRMRw/Vf_weqwbVOI/AAAAAAAABIk/vfVYq33DJ1Q/s400/slcc%2Bbooth%2B14.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Local authors SLCC 2014 Photo courtesy of Jessie's Photography</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Come FIND us.</b><br />
<b> Come JOIN us!</b>cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-12686569940782991902015-09-04T16:51:00.000-07:002015-09-21T13:28:16.350-07:00Faking Steampunk - The Sophomore Edition<h2>
Steampunk still baffles me.</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div>
It's not as weird as it used to be. I got a great education of it last year at the Salt City Steamfest. I learned this was not something that I could just go to in my usual Think Geek tee. This was COSPLAY hardcore. I quickly came up with a costume consisting of my lace-up boots, a Heidi top, and my black back brace turned around for a corset. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
These are the basics I could tell you from my novice experience:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Steampunk is like fantastical alterna-history. </li>
<li>Cthulhu is king!</li>
<li>Steampunk cosplay is epic and serious cosplayers live for the "IMMERSION" experience.</li>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XwJNHb_imhk/VeonYBecEsI/AAAAAAAABHo/Pg779w5-4lg/s1600/11844964_538442382979960_5493312386882173787_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XwJNHb_imhk/VeonYBecEsI/AAAAAAAABHo/Pg779w5-4lg/s320/11844964_538442382979960_5493312386882173787_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/steampunkrockopera">https://www.facebook.com/steampunkrockopera</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<li>Boots BEFORE corset.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
My first day at Steamfest I couldn't help but giggle while sitting in the bathroom stall listening to two girls, trying in their best British accents, complaining about walking the plank on a dirigible. I didn't know a time capsule like this existed. What a gem! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Our booth was not far from oodles of corsets. I thought I would try one on for the fun of it. It was hilarious and surprising that people would wear this hellish device. But after considering what I was doing, and knowing I had one more day of this immersion festival, I BOUGHT said corset and decided to wear it the next day. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Things learned about corsets:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Boots BEFORE corset. I was warned but didn't think about it until I tried to get on my boots. I couldn't bend over. An eye-opening experience that taught me a lot about WHY people had dressers in the 1800s. </li>
<li>Corsets were invented before cars. It was seriously difficult to drive a stick.</li>
<li>Using the bathroom is NO JOKE! It's seriously hard. How do you even sit? I applaud every woman that knows the trick to this. </li>
</ul>
<div>
This year I was by myself, no longer the Steampunk virgin, I knew what to expect and how to play it. I couldn't shy as I did before. Steampunk is something you have to dig into and commit. The more you commit, the better the outcome.<br />
<br />
So, I searched through out my closet looking to dust off my corset . . . NOPE! Can't find it. I had to impress. This was important. Right? I start searching for anything that will work. I'm scraping of course, but I think I did okay.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Steampunk, I learned, is about characters. So, this is my character, "Darla Windratchet, my Diesel Punk Pin-up Girl."<br />
<br />
From head to toe:<br />
<ul>
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LCzyIBnzY28/VeojA2rb1II/AAAAAAAABG0/RN5YQ1rJUJM/s1600/20150718_094535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LCzyIBnzY28/VeojA2rb1II/AAAAAAAABG0/RN5YQ1rJUJM/s400/20150718_094535.jpg" width="223" /></a>
<li>Hat made from husband's old khaki's with Mockingjay pin for style</li>
<li>ugly old army green shirt</li>
<li>brown socks cut for gloves</li>
<li>Big fat belt accompanied by Cat Woman Utility Belt</li>
<li>volleyball shorts over tights OVER stretch pants (yes, I'm that self-conscious)</li>
<li>My husband's hand-stitched field notebook pouch. </li>
<li>Thrift store steampunk secretary shoes</li>
<li>and mascara smears on my face like grease. </li>
</ul>
<div>
A complete look. I felt very floozy-esque. I felt pretty proud of the costume. <br />
<br />
Everyone else would be dressed up, I would blend in, nice and easy.<br />
<br />
So, deep down, I was struggling bad. I was very uncomfortable, but tried to wear it well. I still blame the shoes, since I haven't worn heels since my wedding day. <br />
<br />
Oh, and did I mention, I epic-ly tripped on the corner of 4th and Main, while getting honks by passing "sailors"?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
While eating (IN COSTUME) with my fellow writers at P.F. Chang's, I stupidly decided to take off my Cat Woman Utility Belt while I ate my Lo Mein. And YES, as you would think, I had to walk back later to ask the wonderful waitress if they had FOUND a Cat Woman Utility Belt left be this lame girl.<br />
<br />
I had several times people tell me, "I think there is something on your face," not knowing it was there on purpose. I had many think I was a rebel from District 13, referencing the Mockingjay pin in my hat. And when it came to the having my photo taken, I didn't even know what to do.<br />
<br />
Needless to say, (though I will say it anyway) I DON'T STEAMPUNK. I failed yet again this year. And even though I feel proud of myself for wearing the heels the entire time, I still can't pull it off.<br />
<br />
HOWEVER . . . That doesn't mean that it isn't COMPLETELY fascinating. It is really fun to watch others and interact with them and people watch like crazy. What a fun world (for them). Many who I know love this genre and play it up in epic steampunk fashion. I am mind-blown by some of the originality and creativity that goes into some of these costumes.<br />
<br />
If you are curious about this strange world you have two really amazing opportunities.<br />
<br />
Sept. 4th is the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1452265595065304/" target="_blank">Gangrene Comedy Film Festival: FULL STEAM</a></div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
At the Ed Kenley Amphitheater in Layton. Follow the link to know more.<br />
<br />
There is also something SPECTACULAR happening at <a href="http://saltlakecomiccon.com/" target="_blank">Salt Lake Comic Con</a> this year. The profoundly talented <a href="http://www.paulgenesse.com/" target="_blank">Paul Genesse</a> and his crew and putting on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1445062625823487/" target="_blank">The Steampunk Rock Opera</a> - an event you do not want to miss. Not only is it loaded with extremely talents actors and singers, several are friends: Callie Stoker, Scott Tarbet, Terra Luft - just name dropping here) but there will be audience participation. Ah! Who wouldn't want to do THAT? (besides, obvious... me, because I suck)<br />
<br />
Please don't miss it. It will be groundbreaking and enormous fun.<br />
<br />
FULL STEAM AHEAD!!! </div>
cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-15881297587017568252015-06-20T09:19:00.001-07:002015-06-20T09:29:15.637-07:00Understanding Joy - A Deeper Meaning of Pixar's Inside Out<a href="http://www.pixar.com/" target="_blank">DISNEY PIXAR</a> may have down their best work here with <a href="http://video.disney.com/watch/inside-out-trailer-2-509d33e1baece169cc10dc60" target="_blank">INSIDE OUT</a>, and I'm not just talking about the stunning animation, brilliant cast, witty dialogue, or the <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001652/" target="_blank">John Kratzenberger</a> cameo we all listen for. These are all things we have come to love about any Pixar movies, but <b>Inside Out</b> is something else, something more brilliant.<br />
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When the movie was over and I was still soaking in the visionary splendor I turned over to my 11 yr. old and asked her if she liked it. "Oh, sure mom, it was good."<br />
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Good? What do you mean GOOD? It was amazing! But then an idea hit me... "Mia, do you know what this story is about?"<br />
She shrugged. "I don't know."<br />
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Typical 11 yr old. I mean, didn't we just watch HOW the 11 yr. old brain works?<br />
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"This movie is about understanding joy. To truly understand it you have to feel sadness in some form."<br />
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She smiled as if she understood what I meant . . . but she doesn't. And I tried as I could to explain how the movie made me feel, understanding the importance of memories and imagination.<br />
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As I was spilling out my own thoughts my beautiful 8 yr. old said to me, "Well, mom, I understand the movie. I'm a really smart girl."<br />
"Of course you are, but you don't know what it's like to be 9."<br />
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Me, on the other hand, knows exactly what it's like to be 9 or 12 or 16 or 21. And every heartbreak and disappointment and emotional meltdown that comes from those years. That's one of the beautiful things about growing older, the trials that make us and define us and have molded us into who we are.<br />
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The Science of Thought </h2>
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In my 10th grade health class I once did a class presentation on Inner Voices and had my brother draw some seriously creepy illustrations of who these inner voices were and how we could cope and learn to live with them. It went over really well and I think it was the art that helped convey what I was talking about. Feelings or emotions are not specifically physical objects. As a visual learner I need to see something to understand it. <br />
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Disney Pixar took this gift of memory and conceptually engineered it into a tangible thing - a functioning machine. Seeing this visualized on screen opened up my own mysteries of collective thought. I felt like I was back in my college psych class learning about the different theories of psychosis. Believing and applying these psychological concepts paints a picture for us, so we don't have to wrap out brains around the deep hidden meaning of something that doesn't physically exist. The "Train of Thought", room of "Abstract Thought" and the "Subconscious" (where the scary clown lived) are just excellent representations of theory. But seeing it with my eyes connected the dots and made a picture for me to follow and understand.<br />
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My 11 yr. old came home and immediately started researching (she is a smarty pants) psychological theories on feelings and emotion, because she kept asking about feelings that were not represented there. We talked about different theories and I told her that not one is wrong, but should study and understand all of them, because each has something to offer. Disney Pixar did the best storytelling with five, that's good writing sense and character arc. For Disney Pixar to tackle such an out-of-the-box topic of feelings and behavior in children wrapped up in a beautifully animated movie is ground breaking.<br />
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CORE Memories</h2>
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The message behind INSIDE OUT was not just "It's okay to be sad" or "Look for the positive in bad situations". What I connected to was "You have to feel SADNESS to <i>UNDERSTAND</i> JOY." This is a concept that several youngster do not know yet, because they haven't lived long enough to understand what a gift hindsight really is. Those are our Core Memories, the inner structure of who we are and how we got here.<br />
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Everyone has trials. Everyone goes through them. No one misses out on the things that test our strength or increase our knowledge. We all have a foundation in which we built on, becoming stronger with every trial that comes.<br />
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Getting personal now, this movie has made me reflect on my own core memory strength building - my own way that I learned to understand JOY.<br />
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Infertility is the hardest trial I have faced. It was a daily battle with myself. When the only thing you wanted in life was outright denied you. When others were overly blessed with children, I sat and watched and cried to myself and wondered - how is that fair?<br />
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We went through a cycle of Trying Not Trying, because every time we went through another infertility treatment I had to mentally prepare myself because of the emotional damage it caused, and every month thinking I was pregnant, absolutely - this is the one, this time it worked - to complete devastation that it didn't, I'm broken, I'm stupid for convincing myself that I was. This went on for six years.<br />
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Do I look on those years as a waste? No. Where they hard? Absolutely. Would I trade that experience? Not a chance! Many trials that define us are things that we wouldn't give up. We EARNED that badge. We earned that REWARD!<br />
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The Gift of Hindsight</h2>
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This was a blessing not a curse. I could say the time prepared us, got through schooling, bought a home together, but that's not what I learned. I learned the VALUE of life, my OWN life, and a feeling of JOY that I couldn't understand until I looked at that little thing I created.<br />
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This is where the deep underlying message may get missed by the kids - they just haven't lived long enough to appreciate the blessings that come with trails. But what Pixar illustrated to theses kids is that trials will come and your feelings will learn how to deal with them. That is SO POWERFUL for them to understand. There is no easy fix when it comes to such core building problems, but the pain felt will add another brick to their foundation. You are stronger than you think you are. You can do hard things.<br />
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I wanted to thank Disney Pixar. Thank you for this beautiful example of how we function. It was pure magic imagining with you. And thank you for the insightful look at ourselves from the <b>INSIDE OUT</b>!<br />
<br />cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-77321159849323773462015-06-11T13:56:00.000-07:002015-06-11T18:53:44.074-07:00Mutant Power Strikes Again! The Tony Awards EditionI don't share my mutant ability with everyone, but I have one, I DEFINITELY have one. Over the last 20 plus years I have retained this mutant ability with impeccable clarity, to the point that I feel a little embarrassed.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #d9d2e9;">I am a Broadway Musical Information Magnet, </span></h2>
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<span style="background-color: #d9d2e9;">specifically <a href="http://www.tonyawards.com/index.html" target="_blank">"The Tony Awards."</a></span></h2>
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I got interested in theater my 8th grade year. I pursued it pretty vigorously until my college years when I started focusing on writing instead, a decision I don't wholly regret, but sometimes makes me wistful. In those tender years of youth I got very involved with the happenings of Broadway, feeling that was the pinnacle of a stage performer's career, a MUST! And as a result I was fed on a diet of Hal Prince and Stephen Sondheim with a side of Lloyd Webber, (I say side because Evita was my favorite and I never truly loved Phantom - that is how I know people know theater like me - Phantom is NEVER their favorite), sipping it down with the newest thing to hit the Great White Way.<br />
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So somewhere in my brain holds a storage of information that is basically useless, unless you care about musical theater.<br />
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I know, not great for saving the world, but an impressive party trick, possibly, if people cared enough to listen. The power does have limitations. My first time in New York was last summer, so experiencing Broadway was a totally different magnet collecting thing, and can I say, totally mind blowing - and completely drives my husband crazy.</div>
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Marrying a NON-musical type has kept (some might say rescued) me from full blown Broadway maniac, but my mutant power has not gone away, it tends to come out in strange spontaneous moments...</div>
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For Example:</div>
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A few years ago I watched the Tonys, because I do (no apologies), and thoroughly enjoyed the little production number for "Spring Awakening" knowing <i>Barely Breathing</i>'s Duncan Sheik, (which, BTW did win Best Musical 2007). Later, a few YEARS later, a little show started called <i>Glee. </i>I half-watched/half-listened to the commercials, thinking in the deep recesses of my mind that it would be something I would go for. (Singing and dancing down the school halls? Of course I'd love something so ridiculous.) I see or better yet, HEAR the lead girl and instantly I knew her, I had seen her somewhere before. It took my brain about two seconds to connect that I thought she may have been on Broadway, possibly Spring Awakening. Thank goodness for You Tube or I would had to research my hunch. Yes! Lea Michelle was in there singing her heart out about sexual freedom in Germany. I remembered her because her voice was unforgettable!</h4>
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Does this sound familiar to anyone???<br />
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Little things like this happen all the time, and I find conversations with my family rather silly. </div>
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<i><span style="font-weight: normal;">Who is that?</span> </i>"Don't you know her? That's Patti Lupone!" <i><span style="font-weight: normal;">Who?</span> </i>"She's Broadway royalty! She was in the original cast of Evita with Mandy Patinkin." <i><span style="font-weight: normal;">Who?</span> </i>"You know, Inigo Montoya - You killed my father, prepare to die." <i style="font-weight: normal;">Oh, okay.</i></h4>
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<i><br /></i><i style="font-weight: normal;">What else was that guy in? </i>"He was in <i>The</i> <i>Book of Mormon Musical.</i>" <i style="font-weight: normal;">...crickets...</i></h4>
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<i><br /></i>"Wait? Kristen Chenoweth is coming to Deer Valley?"<i style="font-weight: normal;"> Who? </i>"She's in everything." <i style="font-weight: normal;">Like what? </i>"She was the original Glinda from <i>Wicked </i>with Idina Menzel." <i><span style="font-weight: normal;">Who?</span> </i>"Umm... she was Elsa." <i style="font-weight: normal;">Oh, cool. </i></h4>
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This kind of thing happens all the time. . . unless I am with theater people, then the exchange instead delves down into <b>Nether Broadway</b>, where only the true mutants survive. </div>
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This again happened last Sunday watching the Tonys. Like everyone else, I was stunned by how amazing <i><a href="http://funhomebroadway.com/" target="_blank">Fun Home</a> </i>was and how spellbound I felt listening to little <b>Sydney Lucas</b> sing. And as they went through the awards the Male Lead for a musical came on and I thought, "well that guy looks familiar." I recognized his name <b>"Michael Cerveris."</b> My Sherlock brain kicked in and I started deducting. I'd known that this wasn't someone I had seen recently. This had to do with my past life - as an actor, on stage. That pushes it back into the 90's, college, maybe high school. Where did I know him from? Something important. Something different. Wait . . . a moment in time flashed through my vision. I had a hunch and quickly picked up my phone and began to search.<br />
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I went to IMDB - <i>I have the app you know, very, very useful </i>a<i>nd which I praise the collective that created this wonderful website,</i> and looked him up. He was in various TV shows that I wouldn't have seen, but it did mention TV spots... like the 47th Annual Tony Awards. Bingo! This was what I needed, the little spark that my hunch might be true. I clicked the link and was transported in time. I remember very vividly watching this specific awards show at my friend Kirt's house. Liza, yes - THEE Liza, hosted and the musicals were very diverse. That year a lot of my friends were rooting for the Goodbye Girl starring <b>Bernadette Peters</b> and <b>Martin Short</b>. Me... ME? No, no, no, no... for me I wanted <b>THE WHO'S TOMMY!</b><br />
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DING! Mutant power again! The Who's Tommy the Musical! I knew it! I remember secretly praying that they kept in the Baked Bean scene for the movie. I wanted it to win the entire night even though my friends thought I was crazy. <b>Kiss of the Spider Woman</b> won, and <b>Chita Rivera</b> also won (who, btw, didn't win on Sunday - boy, she's in everything!). This was the first listed show for Michael Cerveris on <a href="http://www.ibdb.com/index.php" target="_blank">IBDB</a> and though he had been on Broadway several times after, it was that first impression of him in my youth that stuck with me. I would always remember him. I bought the soundtrack and have loved every minute of it.<br />
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My mutant power may be about something utterly ridiculous, but it's important to me. Those details in our lives that happen at fundamental times shape us and define us. I wonder what your mutant power is.</div>
cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-37216559912791372792015-05-10T21:35:00.000-07:002015-05-10T21:35:28.939-07:00The Liebster Award! Passing the Torch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My great friend and fellow Sherlock enthusiast (has nothing to do with this award, promise - wink!) <a href="http://dreamstobecome.com/"><b>Alyson Grauer</b> </a>started a blog not too long ago, and through it has inspired others, not just me, to live out their dreams. The nature of this award is to acknowledge those I admire and respect through their courageous efforts expressed in blog form.<br />
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The Liebster Award was bestowed upon me from her and I promised not to let her down. I have in return nominated<b> Laurieann Thorpe, Becky Halls, Terra Luft, Michael Bacera, and Johnny Worthen,</b> all of which have inspired me.<br />
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A quick review - <b>The Liebster </b>(not Lobster as my daughter read it) <b>Award</b> is passed friend to friend, blogger to blogger, to those whom have in some way influenced your character, changed the way you think or feel, and/or let your mind fill with inspirational MAGIC! And to help introduce other readers, writers, or authors to share in the fun.<br />
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<u> From Aly's website, here are the RULES:</u><br />
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<b>1. Acknowledge you belong in the blogging community, and that you ROCK!<br /><br />2. Nominate influential bloggers that you have admired, read, love, and let the world know it!<br /><br />3. Give these lovely people a few questions.<br /><br />4. Answer said questions.<br /><br />5. Watch the world ignite with excitement. Share!</b><br />
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<i> First... <b>Thank you Alyson</b>, for thinking that my little blog is worthy of this. I can't say it is worth any special praise, but it has become important to me. I like writing and sharing what happens to me in my crazy world, but I also like the spontaneity of writing a blog, the way the words flow fluidly out of my brain through my fingers. Writing is a passion, and this little blog has helped keep my brain active, creative, and sane.</i><br />
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<b> So, without any waiting, here are the questions my lovely friend has asked:</b><br />
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1. <b>If you were a protagonist in a novel, what genre would it be, and who is the author?</b> <i>Great question. This one kept me thinking for quite a while. It's hard to pick. My life is a sequence of comic sitcom hi-jinx, laced with calm moments of clarity. It would have to be fantasy - no doubt there, but not Tolkien, that's too predictable. If I could put my finger on it, my novel would be much like the situational comedia and heart-felt lessons of <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/8127.Anne_of_Green_Gables?from_search=true&search_version=service"><b>Anne of Green Gables</b></a> written by the fantastical <a href="http://www.garthnix.com/"><b>Garth Nix</b></a>. This mash-up works nicely. It's what I live and breathe. </i><br />
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2. <b>What is your favorite classic fairy tale (Grimm, Hans Christian Anderson, Perrault, etc)?</b> <br />
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<i>Funny that I have my copy of Grimm's fairy tales resting right next to me... hmmmmm..... let me see.... actually, I know this without looking it up.<br /><br /> My favorite since I was a child - <b><a href="http://etc.usf.edu/lit2go/175/grimms-fairy-tales/3182/snow-white-and-rose-red/">Grimm's Snow White and Rose Red</a>.</b> <br /><br /> I have one sister, if I can mention it, and as we grew we were much like Snow White (tender, gentle) and Rose Red (free-spirited, adventurous), need no explanation (wink!). We lived in the country near groves of trees and mountain streams, with only each other to play with. If we would happen upon a dwarf with his beard stuck in a log, well of course, we would try to help him out with whatever we had. And, let's say, if a bear found its way to our small country cottage, cold and wet, well of course, we would let it come in and warm by the fire. <br /><br /> Truth. I love this tale because it's about sisters. Sisters are important, and let me say... AMAZING! It's like I was given a best friend I can hang with forever, sharing experiences together. I didn't always think this, but I do now. A sister is one of the best gifts I was ever given. (and watch Becka cry right... about... now...)</i><br />
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3. <b>What color is your magic? Be specific. </b><i>I don't think it would be any secret that my magic is green. But it is not any green, this green is the first green awakened by spring, fresh like wet clover, grasping energy from the sun and building strength as it grows. It lives in the tallest trees where only a few can find it, but every so often catches a swift breeze, sweeping down past hills and fields, to lay on the shoulder of one who dreams of impossible things and is ready to believe.</i><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">courtesy of Becka Thomas - pie face extraordinaire</td></tr>
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4. <b>Would you rather have cake or pie?</b> <i>PIE!!!! If you didn't know, because I'm surprised that some people DON'T know, pies need faces. Every time my mother made a pie when we were growing up she cut a cute smiley-face in the top. I grew up thinking all pies had faces until the dreaded day - some time when I was about fifteen - when I went to a friend's house and had pie WITHOUT a smiley-face. It was like eating sadness. SO, please, for the sake of those you love and who love pie, put a smiley-face on it and EAT the JOY!</i><br />
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5. <b>If you were an Animagus or able to transform into an animal, what creature would you be? </b><i>Very clever. Of course I already have this all planned out, being the Potter Dreamer that I am, but there is a fundamental problem - I don't really like animals. But... if we are playing by Potter rules then I think it is clearly... A UNICORN!!</i><br />
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<i> Unicorns have special magic and live beyond what people believe. I think this represents me very well. I would like to think that I am that rare creature, chained to a world that doesn't want to believe that I exist. BUT I DO! And the mystical world around me suffers because of the ones who are too realistic to remember being a child and living wide-eyed. I live dreaming of things beyond reality and always have that flicker of wonder in everything I do and see. If I see a white horse on the mountain side - I've spotted a unicorn. If I hear the tinkling of wind chimes - a fairy must be near. Don't give up on that world, it exists. I'm here! Come find me!</i><br />
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And there you are. To the lovely friends I have selected - <br />
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<b>Laurieann Thorpe - <a href="http://openbookopenheart.com/">Open Book Open Heart</a><br /><br />Becky Halls - <a href="http://thoroughlyinearnest.blogspot.com/">Thoroughly In Earnest</a><br /><br />Terra Luft - <a href="http://terraluft.com/">View From the Crystal Ball</a><br /><br />Michael Bacera - <a href="http://michaelbacera.com/">Qualified Opinions</a><br /><br />Johnny Worthen - <a href="http://johnnyworthen.blogspot.com/">Blog Mansion</a></b><br />
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And here are the questions I ask of you:<br />
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<li><b>Who has been a constant in your life, making you the person you are today? </b></li>
<li><b>What song would play at the quintessential part of your own movie? </b></li>
<li><b>List three literary characters who best represent you or wished you had created? </b></li>
<li><b>How do you inspire those around you? </b></li>
<li><b>What is the tagline for the book of your life? </b></li>
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<i><b>There you have it world - one Liebster thanked and now navigating to others. </b></i></div>
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<i><b>God speed little award. Take wings!</b></i></div>
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<br />cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-45960513971453190812015-04-16T22:40:00.000-07:002015-04-16T23:25:43.193-07:00Chicken in a Biskit and Easy Cheese: A Memoir<div class="MsoNormal">
A strange thing happened to me last night. It was snowy (in April? - boy, don't I know it), my husband was gone on a trip, the kids were asleep, and I was snacky. I wasn't interested in a bowl of cereal (having that for dinner - probably why I was snacky) and I opened several cupboards looking for that special something just right to satisfy my nightly craving.</div>
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If you assume my comfort food is Chocolate you are wrong. There are a few foods that come to mind, but none more so than <b>Chicken In A Biskit with Easy Cheese!</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hg93Ur4VHRM/VTCXNAFMqnI/AAAAAAAABEo/k2O5mgK5BkM/s1600/2015-04-16%2B22.58.29-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hg93Ur4VHRM/VTCXNAFMqnI/AAAAAAAABEo/k2O5mgK5BkM/s1600/2015-04-16%2B22.58.29-4.jpg" height="280" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foo Man Choo and manly Van Dyke!</td></tr>
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If I try to remember back to the first memories of this
incredible snack food, I can’t. It was always there. I remember it in our small country home as a child, in
our pantry when we moved as a teenager, and something I carried on to college.
It is like an unofficial member of my family, watching me, keeping me company
on sad days, giving me fuel when I didn’t want anything else. I’d draw designs with the cheese,
make cheese stack sandwiches of three or four or twelve crackers at once. I also remember
spraying the cheese on my face and pretending to be Hulk Hogan. Who knew how magical spray cheese could be?</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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I REMEMBER in tenth grade I decided to throw a party, nothing
completely grand or anything, just a small gathering with new friends. It was the start of my sophomore year and my
first taste of high school. I met new people from different schools and I loved
this new atmosphere. So, I invited a few people to my house to play games and
watch Monty Python and the Holy Grail. I had Shasta, Twizzlers, Doritos, and of course, Chicken In a
Biskit with Easy Cheese. This is instant party food in my mind, knowing nothing
different, but the Biskit had to be there. This was a defining moment within my high school experience, a template for several parties to come—no drinking shenanigans, just united friendships locked in experiences surrounded by junk food.<o:p></o:p></div>
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MY BROTHER Josh
has a talent for “Cheese Art”. Chicken In a Biskit crackers are shaped like
little picture frames or postage stamps. Josh would often ask, “Okay, what do
you want me to make?” And I would say something like, “The Mona Lisa.” Within a
few small sprays of the cheese, Josh would create – and I kid you not – an amazing
replica of the classic portrait for my eating pleasure. He liked the challenge. Among some of the
brilliant works of art were <i>Sunday on the
Island of Le Grande</i> <i>Jatte</i>, <i>Sunflowers, American Gothic, Whistler’s
Mother, Picasso’s cubist period, the Scream, and Michelangelo's Finger of God </i>and then of course, the cutest
<i>Batman </i>I’d ever seen <i>- </i>always my favorite. I know this is a
talent that he has kept up over the years. He’d make me <i>The Last Supper </i>if I asked. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This blue box with the goofy chicken accompanied with a can of processed spray
cheese were the first foods I bought after I was married, in celebration of my new life; when we bought our
house I immediately found a home in the cupboard perfect for crackers and cheese; when I was pregnant I could sit and eat a whole box; I'd load up when my husband would leave town for work; and it always accompanies all of our family camping trips. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I KNOW... I'm placing a lot of importance in a lightly dusted cracker and processed cheese.</div>
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IN FEBRUARY my husband found out they were terminating his
job. This was COMPLETELY unexpected. We had some low moments trying to figure
out what direction our life would lead. We've been scrimping living on my measly income and haven't thought of extravagances like canned cheese - it's up to $4. So when I looked in my cupboard last night
contemplating what to eat, if anything, in the small corner sat the goofy
chicken and the orange lid. It was then when I thought about how something so
insignificant like crackers and cheese can make me smile and remind me of
thousands of memories that define who I am, who I have become,
and where I am going. <o:p></o:p></div>
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IT'S NOT JUST THE CRACKER, BUT THE MEMORY IT HOLDS.</div>
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I know there are several snack foods if we think about it,
that have come and gone from our lives. And seeing them or tasting something
like them brings us to the time and place of the first taste; Ironport, Apple Slice, Zanys, Tato Skins, Strawberry Shortcake cereal, Punkies,.. Memories get trapped in our senses, smells, tastes, things
beyond our sight. Because my staple is
still here I've simply forgotten the basic wonder that came with it. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So I ask you now, reach back and find those memories tucked away in your
corner grocery. Seek to remember who you were and what made you happy. Those
memories still exist – go find them! <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
And never be afraid to wear a mustache made of cheese!</div>
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<a href="http://www.junkfoodguy.com/2011/08/11/classic-thursdays-chicken-in-a-biscuit-baked-snack-crackers-jury-duty-movies/#sthash.ItyZUQyh.dpbs" target="_blank">Great blog from Junk Food Nation</a><o:p></o:p></div>
cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-77747518019421372912015-03-29T18:51:00.001-07:002015-03-29T18:51:20.977-07:00"So, You're An Author... Now What!" - The Beginning of the UFGThis year so far has been one hill after another, and though I'm still climbing I can see the summit... and it's going to be spectacular!<br />
<br />
Last year changed my life, serious. For a long time I did things on my own. With a small press publisher I really needed to get myself out there and learn the game. I dealt with both triumphs and failures. I could write a complete book on all the things I tried, <b>"SO, YOU'RE AN AUTHOR... NOW WHAT!" </b>I didn't know many others like me, struggling as I was, to get their book out and into readers' hands. I needed to find others who understood what it takes to be an author, the hellfire of editing, the late night revisions and the sleepless early mornings. I knew these people existed I just couldn't find them.<br />
<br />
Then, in the randomness of Facebook, I stumbled on a group that was putting together a vendor booth for Salt Lake Comic Con. This was just what I needed. I had done the two previous cons by myself and it nearly killed me. It's so much work. But. I had the experience of doing this before, and thought I would be of value to these people. This would be a great opportunity to meet up with some other local authors, network a bit, and why not... make a friend or two. I had no idea what would come. <br />
<br />
The experience was hard, but rewarding.We went to Mordor and back, and the experience bonded us closer than anything could. These authors were trying, as I was, to change the world. The idea of fostering a community of writers and authors resonated with me. I was the cheerleader from the start. And not only did I meet these terrific people, I discovered there were others, several others that had a more global perspective, something I never imagined.<br />
<br />
BOOM! COSMIC COLLISION!! <br />
<br />
These were the first threads of the <b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Utah-Fantasy-Guild/793222187391192" target="_blank">Utah Fantasy Guild</a></b>, a newly formed organization that just joined the<a href="http://theuaa.org/" target="_blank"> <b>United Authors Association </b></a>(UAA). What we are trying to do is not only make others improve their writing, but succeed, build confidence in their craft, build relationships within the community, and survive as an author.<br />
<br />
I'm more than excited, I'm elated to be voted in as President. And I'm glad to venture through with my comrades-in-arms.I wonder how I got here, but I'm honored to stand shoulder to shoulder with these great people.<br />
<br />
Come join the Dark Side... We have Cookies!!!<br />
<br />
<b><a href="http://theuaa.org/join-us/" target="_blank">UFG Join Us! </a> </b>cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-5276090148424133102015-03-04T11:50:00.000-08:002015-03-04T11:50:49.909-08:00March Forth! Changing Lives One Book at a Time!<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Last year I made one of the most profound and life-changing decisions I decided to share my house with a stranger. </h2>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qdjvHAPMgS8/VPdaTArtI9I/AAAAAAAABDY/39YZi2Rs9MU/s1600/10516705_733023573438132_5324216738271360252_n%2B(368x292).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qdjvHAPMgS8/VPdaTArtI9I/AAAAAAAABDY/39YZi2Rs9MU/s1600/10516705_733023573438132_5324216738271360252_n%2B(368x292).jpg" height="316" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/authorgrauer" target="_blank">Alyson Grauer</a>, a fellow author through my publisher <a href="http://www.xchylerpublishing.com/" target="_blank">Xchyler Publishing</a> posted in our Facebook wall that she had decided to come from Chicago to<a href="http://www.saltcitysteamfest.com/" target="_blank"> Salt City Steamfest</a> at the end of July and asked if there was anyone she could stay with. I only knew Aly from her online presence and a story that she had penned in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mechanized-Masterpieces-Steampunk-Anika-Arrington-ebook/dp/B00CFT5658/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8" target="_blank">Mechanized Masterpiece's a Steampunk Anthology</a>. She seemed lively and funny in all her comments. I liked her by all respects. But something screamed inside me, "She HAS to stay with me!"<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J4jlAwmVCx4/VPdXE4UQhZI/AAAAAAAABDE/c8iRFp6f8qk/s1600/10574510_10100898579087301_5782306391121556785_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J4jlAwmVCx4/VPdXE4UQhZI/AAAAAAAABDE/c8iRFp6f8qk/s1600/10574510_10100898579087301_5782306391121556785_n.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the UP house. The only thing Aly requested we see.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I messaged her that day and told her she could stay at my home in Salt Lake City. I don't have a huge house, but it happened that at this time my girls were sharing a room and there was a spare bed in the toy room. I did warn her she would be sharing a room with the Barbie Dream house. She seemed excited, even delighted that I would offer her such LUXURIOUS accommodations.<br />
<br />
When Aly arrived my first response was, "She's wearing a bowler hat! I love it!" I IMMEDIATELY liked her. We hit it off instantly. Driving back to my house she kept saying "Whoa! Mountains!" I forget how amazing the mountains are here.<br />
<br />
Over the course of just a few days we discovered we had a LOT in common, but beyond that it was more a paradoxical kindred connection that could not be rationally explained. The invisible forces that mystically guide our destiny intersected, creating an inexplicable cosmic event. By all accounts, we were meant to meet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-em5W6d---Hc/VPdUlQDJOHI/AAAAAAAABCg/Pa-jE-YRmFI/s1600/10410931_10100899844391621_5855834485156231376_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-em5W6d---Hc/VPdUlQDJOHI/AAAAAAAABCg/Pa-jE-YRmFI/s1600/10410931_10100899844391621_5855834485156231376_n.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aly is about to meet a fox</td></tr>
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<br />
She is an actor - so am I.<br />
She plays the Ukelele - So do I.<br />
She grew up with shelties - Really? So did I!<br />
She plays D&D? - I LOVE RPG!<br />
She loves all things fantasy -Me too!!<br />
. . . and she writes?!?! I DO TOO!!!<br />
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We would talk and share and talk more and laugh and goof off like teenagers. We would stop and goo at the same things. We bought identical pens without knowing it. </div>
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<div>
It was like a part of me, a part of who I used to be, the happy, joyous part of me . . . returned. The young, carefree spirit, nymph-like in origin, of who I always believed I was but lost between marriage, kids, job, life . . . came back in the form of a person I had never met.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Since then we have stayed in contact and grown as friends. Her novel <a href="http://bit.ly/OISWonAMZ" target="_blank">ON THE ISLE OF SOUND AND WONDER</a> was released in November 2014. Aly's family has hit some hard times as her father was diagnosed with cancer and she is forging forward with a fundraiser to help with the medical expenses. As a way to help support her family Aly has set up a<a href="http://bit.ly/GrauerFund" target="_blank"> GiveForward</a> account and Xchyler Publishing is GENEROUSLY giving ALL proceeds from her book made on MARCH 4th to this cause. I've always loved the support my publisher has given to us authors. It's a unique and wonderful partnership. </div>
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When I decided to be an author I always had the goal of changing lives for the better, I didn't expect mine to be changed as well. </div>
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Thanks Aly! </h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
There is always a room ready for you when you need it!</h2>
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cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-20849896425837490542015-02-04T15:57:00.002-08:002015-02-25T13:31:27.611-08:00Book Review - On the Isle of Sound and Wonder<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23389467-on-the-isle-of-sound-and-wonder" style="float: left; padding-right: 20px;"><img alt="On the Isle of Sound and Wonder" border="0" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1413582888m/23389467.jpg" /></a><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23389467-on-the-isle-of-sound-and-wonder">On the Isle of Sound and Wonder</a> by <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6479895.Alyson_Grauer">Alyson Grauer</a><br />
My rating: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/1170942542">5 of 5 stars</a><br />
<br />
I will admit Steampunk intimidates me. I’m afraid of gadgetry and mechanization that is, basically, over my head. My imagination is so fanciful I need magic in my stories. So, I was slightly intimidated when I picked up On the Isle of Sound and Wonder. But I’m a sucker for covers and LOOK AT THE COVER!! I’m in AWE!<br />
<br />
My fears quickly vanished. Grauer marries both magic and mechanics into an intelligent, well-crafted, seamless retelling of Shakespeare’s The Tempest. I was immediately drawn into a vivid world of mysterious voodoo magic, flying airships, and intellectual automatons, who if I can say this, reminding me a lot of adorable Baymax.<br />
<br />
In comparing the Shakespearean work, Grauer’s love and understanding of the original text shines through with her careful crafting and storytelling. There is more intensity with both relationships, depth of characters, and heightened danger among the island that cannot be translated to the stage. As a novel, the back stories of several characters can come to light, which I really enjoyed and kept the action and story moving. She didn’t veer so far from the play that you wouldn’t recognize it, but highlighted its potential, pleasing the Shakespearean connoisseur in me.<br />
<br />
Grauer’s clever play with names, places, and features complement the original text. Mira (modern Miranda) proved a strong interpretation of a growing young woman facing the harsh island life, and is a valiant example of a sacrificial heroine any girl could aspire to.<br />
<br />
I had the delightful pleasure of meeting Alyson Grauer at Salt City Steamfest last July and she is just as colorful and lively as her book. I loved... LOVED this book!<br />
<br />
<i>HELP ALY'S DAD WITH HIS CANCER TREATMENT. CLICK <b>GiveForward</b> BUTTON TO DONATE!</i><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/2558637-candace">View all my reviews</a><br />
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cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-22216974554110096612014-09-19T10:08:00.002-07:002014-09-19T10:36:33.398-07:00Salt Lake Comic Con Belated...<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c-9NTh2lqoY/VBxh4Hp803I/AAAAAAAABBg/pxEa7-_L85s/s1600/10629319_637861939662941_6587612505539542316_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c-9NTh2lqoY/VBxh4Hp803I/AAAAAAAABBg/pxEa7-_L85s/s1600/10629319_637861939662941_6587612505539542316_o.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me with my award-winning book, <br />
and my super amazing shirt.<br />
Thanks Brian!<br />
<a href="http://chiseledlight.com/">chiseledlight.com</a></td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2p35zE9TLOU/VBxPeThNP3I/AAAAAAAABAs/nXhlOw7afJg/s1600/10641229_10204523782632642_2612462801019467942_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2p35zE9TLOU/VBxPeThNP3I/AAAAAAAABAs/nXhlOw7afJg/s1600/10641229_10204523782632642_2612462801019467942_n.jpg" height="320" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Free ebook giveaway.</b> <br />
<a href="http://www.sharkbaitbooks.com/" target="_blank">www.sharkbaitbooks.com </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I've been busy and have been slacking on my duties as an
author and a fan.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If anyone wants to know how Salt Lake Comic Con was, I’ll
tell you. I’ve never seen as many people in my life. It was crazy. But I wouldn’t
change this fandom nerd girl for the world. I was there and ready to party.</div>
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Being part of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/UtahFantasyAuthors" target="_blank">Utah Fantasy Authors</a> was one of the best
experiences of my life. I felt like I had run a marathon at the end. It was
hard work, but very rewarding. I left making connections with people that will last
a life time, as well as starting a guild within the <a href="http://www.luwriters.org/" target="_blank">League of Utah Writers</a>,
which I am fortunate enough to now be a part of. </div>
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<b>Check out the free ebook, with a sample from all the UFA Authors. Get a taste of what you like, then take a bite!</b></div>
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Here's the highlights:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bLgiwBCWaqo/VBxe2sSMK7I/AAAAAAAABBU/5RfuD0jI97Y/s1600/10608571_710728898962146_7355885922262429075_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bLgiwBCWaqo/VBxe2sSMK7I/AAAAAAAABBU/5RfuD0jI97Y/s1600/10608571_710728898962146_7355885922262429075_o.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost all of us: <a href="http://www.crasay.com/" target="_blank">C.R. Asay</a>, <a href="http://www.thesurvivalmama.com/" target="_blank">Jen Greyson</a>, <a href="http://www.lehuaparker.com/" target="_blank">Lehua Parker</a>, <a href="http://www.adriennemonson.com/" target="_blank">Adrienne Monson</a>, <a href="http://www.johnnyworthen.com/" target="_blank">Johnny Worthen</a>, <a href="http://www.authorjasonking.com/" target="_blank">Jason King</a>, <a href="http://www.holli-anderson.com/" target="_blank">Holli Anderson</a>, <a href="http://www.rjcraddock.com/" target="_blank">R.J. Craddock</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Angela-Hartley-Author/267442633281341" target="_blank">Angela Hartley</a>, <a href="http://christinehaggertyauthor.com/" target="_blank">Christine Haggerty</a>. (not pictured <a href="http://jabrambarneck.com/" target="_blank">J. Abram Barneck</a>)</td></tr>
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</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RSaRwpBwLLU/VBxPXDvYLDI/AAAAAAAABAc/_CQoN_c1d9s/s1600/616604_606928096083932_514679667884029745_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RSaRwpBwLLU/VBxPXDvYLDI/AAAAAAAABAc/_CQoN_c1d9s/s1600/616604_606928096083932_514679667884029745_o.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Setting up our booth space right on the corner</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s8FILvk67z4/VBxosix8DxI/AAAAAAAABB4/wF1oAVReRKY/s1600/2014090495180625.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s8FILvk67z4/VBxosix8DxI/AAAAAAAABB4/wF1oAVReRKY/s1600/2014090495180625.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My awesome panel about Strong Women Characters</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EbHpKxvZGqc/VBxopxQ5peI/AAAAAAAABBw/8sJotu4FT2M/s1600/2014-09-049523.32.48.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EbHpKxvZGqc/VBxopxQ5peI/AAAAAAAABBw/8sJotu4FT2M/s1600/2014-09-049523.32.48.png" height="400" width="325" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up - me envying Jennifer Nielsen<br />and Jen's evil eye<br />Thanks <a href="https://www.facebook.com/melissamerlot" target="_blank">Melissa</a>!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvNh7O2KA9g/VBxPdysagpI/AAAAAAAABAk/zol-uElZHWE/s1600/10616140_10204789051670730_978763115186790717_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvNh7O2KA9g/VBxPdysagpI/AAAAAAAABAk/zol-uElZHWE/s1600/10616140_10204789051670730_978763115186790717_n.jpg" height="310" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meeting HULK!<br />
Huge man, bigger in person, and Brooke was super nice and beautiful!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lCP6fsf3-V0/VBxPd2bjpyI/AAAAAAAABAo/dCGlZnfu278/s1600/10540694_10203790645439370_6215767964896559189_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lCP6fsf3-V0/VBxPd2bjpyI/AAAAAAAABAo/dCGlZnfu278/s1600/10540694_10203790645439370_6215767964896559189_o.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dork me after meeting Hulk!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nHKhvxzP3-k/VBxPfyxFgUI/AAAAAAAABBE/DsDKHAlFKfI/s1600/10678570_343130979184946_2867741562719922476_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nHKhvxzP3-k/VBxPfyxFgUI/AAAAAAAABBE/DsDKHAlFKfI/s1600/10678570_343130979184946_2867741562719922476_n.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ultimate Fan Girl who bought all of our books.<br />
- with <a href="http://www.adriennemonson.com/" target="_blank">Adrienne Monson</a>, <a href="http://www.holli-anderson.com/" target="_blank">Holli Anderson</a>, <a href="http://www.thesurvivalmama.com/" target="_blank">Jen Greyson</a>, <a href="http://www.rjcraddock.com/" target="_blank">R.J. Craddock</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p>cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-38627336204700435142014-09-01T05:04:00.000-07:002014-09-01T05:04:36.930-07:00My Dreams Are Coming True! - Salt lake Comic ConI'm so excited for the Salt Lake Comic Con. <a href="http://saltlakecomiccon.com/" target="_blank">saltlakecomiccon.com</a><br />
I have to thank the production crew for looking in my past and digging out all my childhood favorites!!<br />
<br />
<b>Bruce Campbell </b>- of course. I love him. I met him back when he was touring with his autobiography back in 2001. And I can't help it if he and my husband look so much alike!!<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cvR4j9gzZ70/VARf9GuMoYI/AAAAAAAABAM/8LxQmu22GJk/s1600/541512_418736371553963_140820062_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cvR4j9gzZ70/VARf9GuMoYI/AAAAAAAABAM/8LxQmu22GJk/s1600/541512_418736371553963_140820062_n.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Much younger Bruce, Kevin, and me (in my round glasses phase)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>Kevin Sorbo</b> again! Maybe this time I won't be so star struck and can actually talk to him.<br />
<br />
<b>Hulk Hogan!!</b> Anyone in my drama three class senior year might remember me doing an impersonation of him while being secretly film... need to dig that one out.<br />
<br />
And of course - <b>Mr. David Lopan (James Hong) </b>"Shut up Mr. Burton. You were not put upon this world to 'Get It!'"<br />
<br />
This time I am spending my time with 11 other authors in the Utah Fantasy Booth, located at 1616.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://utahfantasyauthors.com/">http://utahfantasyauthors.com/</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/UtahFantasyAuthors">https://www.facebook.com/UtahFantasyAuthors</a><br />
<br />
I also get the remarkable chance of sharing a panel with fantastic writers on the panel:<br />
Women in Sci-fi and Fantasy Thursday.<br />
<br />
I promise to post pictures.<br />
<br />
SQUEEE!!<br />
<br />cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-84328997770594915742014-07-19T17:21:00.001-07:002014-07-19T17:21:36.003-07:00The Poetry of New York<div class="MsoNormal">
I've been letting my New York trip simmer over the past 30
days or so. I started several different blog posts, each reflecting on the
observations of the day: the crowded sidewalks, the 24 hour pizza parlors, the
filth and noise of the streets, the stifling subways, the colorful tango
dancers and innumerable chess games in Union Square, the eclectic musicians in
Central Park (Gongs included), the Chinese man playing Jingle Bells on a Chinese violin, the Tenements, the Skyscrapers . . . the beauty that is New York.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But, through all my simmering I couldn't find the exact
words without dissecting every experience I had. No one would want to read
that.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tmd_-xXlRRU/U8sHVp4srBI/AAAAAAAAA_w/xKhYvCzhT9E/s1600/10404028_10204176424796085_2553232098045542887_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tmd_-xXlRRU/U8sHVp4srBI/AAAAAAAAA_w/xKhYvCzhT9E/s1600/10404028_10204176424796085_2553232098045542887_o.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The scene of the crime <br />(yes, my shirt and my books)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On my first day, fresh from the red-eye, sleepless flight (I
was too excited…squee!), and after blurry-eyed stumbling through Brooklyn
trying to figure out the subway, we had a few brief moments free and entered
the New York Public Library. I wanted to rush down to the basement to see the
haunted card files fly about like in <i>Ghostbusters</i>,
but I got distracted by the bookstore—go figure.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My eyes landed on notebooks, which I always look at. I love
carrying a notebook with me, just in case I’m inspired by something. Then my
eyes moved sideways and found two books that I had to own: <i>The 13 Clocks</i>, by James Thurber and <i>This is New York</i>, by E. B. White. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was introduced to James Thurber in 9<sup>th</sup> grade
summer school, one of the influential classes that inspired the writer in me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The E. B. White book I found curious. I studied White a
little in my Children’s Lit class in college, but I didn't think of him as a
New Yorker. Charlotte’s Web, as well as Trumpet of the Swan, found a home in the
innocent places that made up my childhood. I was intrigued, so I bought it as
well, unclear of what treasure I had in my possession.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you’d like to know how I feel about New York . . . read <i>Here is New York</i>. It’s a 7000 word essay, written in 1948, reflecting
on how much New York had changed since E. B. White worked in the city twenty five years earlier. His words filled me completely, as true today as when they were
written. I’m so glad I found this book.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_R55lSNCoRA/U8sJWux39fI/AAAAAAAAA_8/x3sTCO4YbYM/s1600/10415596_10204128594639717_7750213272870415903_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_R55lSNCoRA/U8sJWux39fI/AAAAAAAAA_8/x3sTCO4YbYM/s1600/10415596_10204128594639717_7750213272870415903_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a>While writing my fantasy novels, I often consider the world
as a character. White had done just that. He painted a picture of a living,
breathing metropolis, not hero nor villain, adding his enduring history to
thousands of stories, movies, songs, lives, and experiences daily.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My love for New York, and the experiences I had while there,
deepened after reading his work. He felt the same as I do—a mixture of missing
the old and embracing the new, a poetic dance balancing the people, the
architecture, many different cultures that make up our emigrate history, and the atmosphere that is Manhattan.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you have fifteen minutes, that's all the time you need, take time and read it. I typed
several quotes before I decided I should only type one.<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10814.Here_Is_New_York?from_search=true" target="_blank"> Here is New York, by E. B. White</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“A poem compresses
much in a small space and adds music, thus heightening its meaning. The city is
like poetry: it compresses all life, all races and breeds, into a small island
and adds music in the accompaniment of internal engines.”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I here that music today!</div>
cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-24975344763784282322014-07-06T08:05:00.004-07:002014-07-06T08:05:51.251-07:00Why I Tell The Story... "Once On This Island" 20th Anniversary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eu7snKkr404/U5p8EKJGoeI/AAAAAAAAA_M/TMeoUZfL0bc/s1600/Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eu7snKkr404/U5p8EKJGoeI/AAAAAAAAA_M/TMeoUZfL0bc/s1600/Image.jpg" height="215" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me enjoying my glorious beverage at the "Once on This Island" cast party.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I wanted to write a celebratory blog to honor one of the best and worst experiences of my life. I pondered over and over about what I should say, and the only think I could think of was the truth. So, I apologize up front for the flat-out details of my innocent life, but I felt this story defines me and changed my life. And this story didn't specifically happen to me, I'm just one caught in the waves and tried to do something to help.<br />
<br />
<i>(deep breath) Here I go.</i><br />
<br />
This has taken me a long time to write... 20 years in fact. It happened that long ago. January 1994. I was at a friend's house doing nothing of importance. I was 18, recently graduated from high school, day-dreaming through life. I received a phone call from my dearest friend Greg. I thought it strange - why would Greg call me here? I couldn't understand his words at first. They didn't make sense. <i>Todd has Leukemia</i>. What did he mean? Leukemia? The words formed clear in my mind. . .<br />
<br />
<i>Todd has Cancer.</i><br />
<br />
SIDE NOTE: People grow soft spots for others in their lives, occurring in these tender years when you are touched by someone so profoundly, you feel that it's a part of who you are, why you do things, how you think and feel. . . I have a soft spot for both of these people.<br />
<br />
Todd was funny, popular, sarcastic, he was the lead in all the musicals and played the awesome villains in the school plays, he had an incredible singing voice, and he, his best friend Greg, my brother Josh, and I had formed a powerful bond together through those teenage years. We had called ourselves "The Quadumvarette" <i>(citation on spelling)</i> and when we were together, I felt invincible. Josh left on his LDS mission, gone for 2 whole years, I felt the stronghold we had shift.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YU0fA_INAF4/U5p74iOjK4I/AAAAAAAAA-U/Yq8GhLVhjGg/s1600/Image+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YU0fA_INAF4/U5p74iOjK4I/AAAAAAAAA-U/Yq8GhLVhjGg/s1600/Image+%25282%2529.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sarah and Melissa - Ti Moune and Little "T"<br />
and the rest of the cast in the drama room..</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A few days before this phone call, I had hung out with my friend Todd. A group of our friends decided to see the hypnotist show and I invited him along. I hadn't seen him in a while. I'd known that he had been sick, but he came anyway. He jokingly showed me his new inhaler and told me he finally went to the clinic and the doctor there couldn't read his chest x-ray. "That doesn't make sense," I remember saying. "Who can't read a chest x-ray?" Todd was weak crossing the street and I worried about his cold, but nothing else had entered into my young mind. He would be fine. It's just a chest cold.<br />
<br />
<i>Todd has Cancer</i><br />
<br />
Cancer is the biggest word on this planet. I knew I should have visited Todd in the hospital that night, gone and seen him. . . but I didn't. News traveled fast around all our drama friends. This was sensational and horrifying. People who hardly knew him felt some great attachment to his condition, because of everything he did as a role model at the school. His hospital room flooded with people. . . but, not me. He received posters, balloons, cards, a life-size cardboard Clint Eastwood that terrified the nurses every time they walked in, he had so much support from the community. . . and I still didn't go see him.<br />
<br />
Was I heartless? No. . . I was scared.<br />
<br />
I finally went after four days. I didn't have the courage I needed to see him until then. I really needed my brother there, but he was still had a year or so to go. I tried to be strong. To me, and equally to Greg, Todd was part of a foundation that no longer could support itself. I felt strong at the time, and still, I was not prepared for how strong I needed to be.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>(I apologize to Todd for how detailed this is.)</i><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XZ_F9g4ehew/U5p8AKDuysI/AAAAAAAAA-4/2g685wUvuiw/s1600/Image+%25283%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XZ_F9g4ehew/U5p8AKDuysI/AAAAAAAAA-4/2g685wUvuiw/s1600/Image+%25283%2529.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gina getting all prettied up!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In the hospital room, among all the cluttering declarations, was a person I didn't recognize. This was not the same person I knew. This couldn't be Todd. The young man was swollen, hooked up to every imaginable beeping device in the hospital, his eyes were lined with blood from the blood thinners, a giant tube was shoved down his throat, and tubes stuffed in his nose. The nurses were preparing to take him to a procedure, so I only stayed for a minute in the room. I learned from his mother that Todd was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Leukemia Lymphoma, very treatable, but very advanced. A tumor the size of a human lung and grown in his chest, collapsing his windpipe. He couldn't talk or sing. His mother was very clear that he was very, very sick, and that his prognosis didn't look good. For the first time in my life, I faced the reality that funny, hilarious Todd may not make it.<br />
<br />
I felt compelled to go back into the room, pulled by an invisible string. I thought it might be the last time I saw him alive. I made up some stupid excuse to go back in. And then I was there and it was just him and me. I looked at him. He couldn't speak and I couldn't imagine what he was going through. He looked scared and embarrassed, in a hospital gown, hooked up to everything. I felt so sad and helpless, I couldn't do anything. I couldn't help. What would I say? In my cowardess, I said nothing. I turned and left the room, so he wouldn't see me cry.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UOah7ViNZ0c/U5p8BGinizI/AAAAAAAAA-8/6IS_wUch0-M/s1600/Image+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UOah7ViNZ0c/U5p8BGinizI/AAAAAAAAA-8/6IS_wUch0-M/s1600/Image+%25285%2529.jpg" height="186" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Grass! To soften the road."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Over the months Todd went through numerous radiation and chemo, ending in a Bone Marrow Transplant, donated from his sister, a perfect match. I visited three to four times a week, though I hated seeing one of my favorite people struggle in so many ways. I remember him grabbing a handful of his coppery colored hair and handing it to me. He meant it as silly, but it was just another shocking reality to his condition. His muscles shrank away and his voice was but a whisper. The strong, dynamic star from high school changed before my eyes.<br />
<br />
In March of that year, we learned that his family's home in Idaho had burned down, losing nearly all of their earthly possessions. Even baby pictures were destroyed. I couldn't believe how horrible their lives had become in such a short time. My friends and I tried what we could to cheer him up. We filmed some movies for him like "Hospital Pleasure Girl" and "The Dame Edna Experience with guest star Emma Vader, Galactic Pioneer of the Galaxy". But, as a bystander, there isn't much you can do. Some fights need to be fought alone. I knew this, but it still didn't seem fair.<br />
<br />
<i>So, why am I telling you this?</i><br />
<br />
There had to be something we could do. We were eighteen. We still thought we could change the world, naive to the fact that our lives may change by this little decision. In order to make a difference, we needed to do something. . . so what could a bunch of theater geeks do? The answer was so obvious - we would do a play, one last play together, and donate the profits to Todd and his family.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kscJbJNPHjA/U5p8CkoGDQI/AAAAAAAAA_E/k79i8oVlWr0/s1600/Image+%25287%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kscJbJNPHjA/U5p8CkoGDQI/AAAAAAAAA_E/k79i8oVlWr0/s1600/Image+%25287%2529.jpg" height="214" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Much longer than your nose."</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The play we decided on was called <i>Once On This Island,</i> a newer play at the time, that shared a life of an island girl, who sacrifices everything she knows for the freedom to love. Once we decided on this, everything fell into place. My friends, Kirt and Clin directed it together. Grabbing the cast wasn't hard - all friends and former cast mates of Todd's, even Todd's brother Eric joined the cast. The high school dance teacher, Mrs. Petrovich-Musig, volunteered her time to choreograph the play. We traveled around from church to church rehearsing, like wandering gypsies. We secured our old high school for the performances, and our old drama teacher Mr. Burrell, helped with the stage production. The set comprises of a few risers and trees we found in the hallway of the school, our costumes were old, tattered clothes from goodwill, donated fabric for skirts, and flowery patterned pajama pants. Our props were umbrellas with tinsel attached for rain, and strips of fabric tied around our fingers for wind.<br />
<br />
What we lacked in the expense, we made up in heart. Each one of us felt it from the very beginning, that this show would change who we were as people, because we all were trying to show, in our way, how much we wanted to help. The spirit of gratitude that encircled us at that magical time in our lives was undeniable.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HVBp4lZaFsQ/U5p78lwT7lI/AAAAAAAAA-k/S3fv37GMtMQ/s1600/Image+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HVBp4lZaFsQ/U5p78lwT7lI/AAAAAAAAA-k/S3fv37GMtMQ/s1600/Image+%25284%2529.jpg" height="183" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"One small girl... In a tree..."</td></tr>
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<br />
The songs changes us too. The play is told by storytellers in one act. The lyrics wrapped around our hearts and told us what we were doing was noble and generous, and would influence us, as well as the lives it touches forever.<br />
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We performed the show in July of 1994. Todd was out of the hospital during the performance, but he was still too weak to open a pop can. At one point in the play we ran down into the audience. I remember seeing him as I danced about the aisle. His smile told me a thousand things. I felt his appreciation for what we were doing, and I know it helped restore his hope. The money raised seemed inconsequential to the healing of a heart.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"We remind them... where they're from."</td></tr>
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This is in tribute to that time: to memories, friendship, and the feeling of doing what is right, helping in our small way. This experience not only altered my course, but changed my future decisions. I went back to the University Hospital to work, in some ways to say thank you for the life they saved, but in others to see how I could help improve people's lives within my human limitations. I became a registered Bone Marrow Donor and became an advocate for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. This experience saved my life as well.<br />
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I remember a song that has stuck with me over the years, "Why We Tell the Story."<br />
<br style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Verdana; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;" />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Life is why (</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">We tell the story)</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Pain is why (</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">We tell the story)</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Love is why </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">(</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">We tell the story)</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Grief is why </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">(</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">We tell the story)</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Hope is why </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">(</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">We tell the story)</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Faith is why </span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">(</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">We tell the story)</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">You are why. . .</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">We tell the story</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px;" /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">So I hope that you will tell this tale tomorrow</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">It will help your heart remember and relive</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">It will help you feel the anger and the sorrow</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">And forgive</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.8px;" /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">For all the ones we leave</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">And we believe</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;">Our lives become</span></span></i><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Verdana; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.799999237060547px;"><i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">The stories that we weave<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B8xOuvaLpT0/U5qOaV6EqPI/AAAAAAAAA_g/W__Ck7vAZFM/s1600/todd+and+Cynthia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B8xOuvaLpT0/U5qOaV6EqPI/AAAAAAAAA_g/W__Ck7vAZFM/s1600/todd+and+Cynthia.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Todd and his wife Cynthia March 2014</td></tr>
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<br />cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-72224171955099121732014-05-10T22:13:00.001-07:002014-05-10T22:13:18.915-07:00Me? A Featured Author? Cool!I was featured on my friend Scott's blog. I wanted to share it with you all. Just a little something.<div>
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Hope you like it! cjt</div>
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<a href="http://bit.ly/1sztFxs">Scottywattydoodlealltheday.blogspot.com</a><br /><div>
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cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-71928592600277214732014-04-20T16:13:00.001-07:002014-04-20T16:13:58.436-07:00FanXtraordinary!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Salt Lake FanX was so fun. I met so many great people. Here is some of them.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and my booth at SLComic Con FanX 2014<br />
My amazing SIL Julie helped me the whole time</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cVFFSan0-8Q/U1Q-pw0vi_I/AAAAAAAAA7w/46Ibbj44CDM/s1600/20140419_123519.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cVFFSan0-8Q/U1Q-pw0vi_I/AAAAAAAAA7w/46Ibbj44CDM/s1600/20140419_123519.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My own superhero<br />
Lissa, editor extraordinaire, and little ol' me </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xPHjNTMsuSg/U1RAlu7xTBI/AAAAAAAAA8s/_qPwRhzSbyc/s1600/IMG950327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xPHjNTMsuSg/U1RAlu7xTBI/AAAAAAAAA8s/_qPwRhzSbyc/s1600/IMG950327.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">R2 - the newest Marvel Superhero</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vinz Clortho "Many Shubs and Zools knew what is was to be roasted in the depths of the Slor that day, I can tell you." </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two R2. "Bleep Bloop!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WWF Old school <br />
Hulk Hogan, Ultimate Warrior, and Macho Man Randy Savage</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8vwCB5XCqV8/U1Q-0jUbg0I/AAAAAAAAA78/H6QyMC3i2Kw/s1600/20140419_142428+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8vwCB5XCqV8/U1Q-0jUbg0I/AAAAAAAAA78/H6QyMC3i2Kw/s1600/20140419_142428+%25281%2529.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joel and Tom Servo</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proud member of DEVO</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Otto </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the three storms from Big Trouble in Little China</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The green room and the view of all the celebs have of my booth.<br />
This is Jason David Frank - That's right, the original White Power Ranger (and my BIL's face).</td></tr>
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cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-64124994830064377102014-01-10T21:35:00.000-08:002014-01-10T21:35:28.074-08:00The Wee Small Hours...Here I am.... I woke up around 4 in the morning and my brain would not shut off. I fluffed my pillow, moved around, re-positioned my hip, smooth out the blanket contortion and again, closed my eyes, knowing I have three more hours before I need to get up and get the kids ready for school...<br />
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...and instead of dreaming, I lay there thinking.<br />
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This is what I call the magic hour. It doesn't seem magic at the time, it seems like the biggest pain to be thinking instead of dreaming. But trust me, use these hours to your advantage.<br />
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My brain takes off in directions I never expect. I think the resting images in my brain try to make sense of my day and connect the cognitive questions that never get an answer.<br />
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During different mornings I have thought up a few of my ideas for my books. Vivatera started this way. I thought of the whole story and my brain grew more excited and more awake. I used to keep a notebook like many people and write down different ideas, but can never make sense of it if I try to get back to sleep.<br />
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So, here is some writing advice...<br />
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The thing to do is let it play out in your brain, then make a sweet mug of hot cocoa, grab your little lap top, sit on the couch in your living room, and watch the sunrise while you write. Let your brain take over and get out those silly ideas that are keeping you awake. Who knows what might come of this. Some are rubbish, some seem promising, but out of all this there is one, one that might stretch its legs and take on a life of its own.<br />
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I love those mornings. And the best that comes from my writing happens during these wee small hours. I'm grateful for them. If you haven't experienced it, try it. See what comes out of you. You might write a blog about it. ;)<br />
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<br />cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-28290277881182947272013-12-11T22:06:00.003-08:002013-12-11T22:12:30.934-08:00Christmas Cards for Everyone!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WRPmuYAK8xc/UqlHqKS0iiI/AAAAAAAAA5I/C6WGV5kAnsM/s1600/20131211_220302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WRPmuYAK8xc/UqlHqKS0iiI/AAAAAAAAA5I/C6WGV5kAnsM/s400/20131211_220302.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
I didn't make Christmas Cards this year. I've been living in a Hobbit Hole for a few months writing. I couldn't climb out of the great mountain on laundry to muster the energy it takes for Christmas Cards. <br />
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But my 10 yr old made some for her friends that I thought I would share in hopes to pass them to you with holiday cheer. Enjoy!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dear Cassidy (her best friend), You are so- AWESOME! I think you should have a Merry Christmas. The Great Zecora predicts it! Happy Holidays!</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iU59NkACAMc/UqlH5QPvYdI/AAAAAAAAA5g/7_gnoNLbeNE/s1600/20131211_220448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iU59NkACAMc/UqlH5QPvYdI/AAAAAAAAA5g/7_gnoNLbeNE/s400/20131211_220448.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dear Katie (her Aunt), I hope you have a great Christmas. That reminds me of an episode of Shaun the Sheep. I will tell you about it later. Happy Holidays! P.S. It's a Christmas Episode.</span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">But this one is my favorite! Happy Christmas! </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HB_4v8vpTJE/UqlMfR6fKbI/AAAAAAAAA6E/4WjFJ3d3LqY/s400/20131211_223900.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dear Sarah (a girl in her class), I hope you have a Merry Christmas. Did you know that the first Christmas tree was in Germany? It was discovered by a guy named Martin Luther. Happy Holidays! Martin Luther in Germany "What the--?"</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0hqFnxWy9po/UqlOKqXH5pI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/rbT8wJWY1lo/s1600/20131211_224452.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0hqFnxWy9po/UqlOKqXH5pI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/rbT8wJWY1lo/s320/20131211_224452.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: small;">P.S. That's not what really happened and that's not what Martin Luther really looked like.</span></span></td></tr>
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<br />cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-35146914877357032762013-10-17T09:10:00.000-07:002013-10-17T09:10:48.946-07:00Incredulous. . . DING!<div>
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in·cred·u·lous</h2>
<span style="bottom: 1ex; font-size: 0.75em; height: 0px; line-height: 1; position: relative; vertical-align: baseline;"></span> <span class="pronset"><span audio="http://static.sfdict.com/dictstatic/dictionary/audio/luna/I01/I0116500.mp3" default="http://dictionary.reference.com/audio.html/lunaWAV/I01/I0116500"></span> <span class="show_spellpr" style="display: inline;"><span class="prondelim" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">[</span><span class="pron" style="display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">in-<span class="boldface" style="font-weight: 700;">krej</span>-<span class="ital-inline" style="display: inline; font-family: Georgia, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: italic;">uh</span>-l<span class="ital-inline" style="display: inline; font-family: Georgia, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: italic;">uh</span><img alt="" border="0" class="luna-Img" src="http://static.sfdict.com/dictstatic/dictionary/graphics/luna/thinsp.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: text-top;" /><img alt="" border="0" class="luna-Img" src="http://static.sfdict.com/dictstatic/dictionary/graphics/luna/thinsp.png" style="border: 0px; vertical-align: text-top;" />s</span><span class="prondelim" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">]</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="pg" style="display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 3px;"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">adjective</span></span></span><div class="luna-Ent" style="background-image: none; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 5px;">
<span class="dnindex" style="color: #7b7b7b; display: block; float: left; font-weight: bold; width: 28px;"><span id="hotword">1.</span></span><div class="dndata" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 37px;">
<span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">disinclined</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">indisposed</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">to</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">believe;</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">skeptical.</span></span></div>
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<span class="dnindex" style="color: #7b7b7b; display: block; float: left; font-weight: bold; width: 28px;"><span id="hotword">2.</span></span><div class="dndata" style="font-family: verdana; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 37px;">
<span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;">indicating</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword" style="cursor: default;">or</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">showing</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">unbelief:</span> </span><span class="ital-inline" style="display: inline; font-family: Georgia, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-style: italic;"><span id="hotword"><span id="hotword" name="hotword">an</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">incredulous</span> <span id="hotword" name="hotword">smile.</span></span></span></div>
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I realized something about Young Adult fiction . . . the word INCREDULOUS! I do not think it means what they think it means. Looking over the definition it shouldn't be used so much, but oh . . . it is.<div>
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<div>
This word saturates any action-driven, paranormal YA fiction out there, like a cancer running through every page. It is so overused that a bell goes off in my head every time I read it. DING!</div>
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<i>(As a church go-er, I had a very irreverent moment with something similar, a phrase that the teacher kept saying over and over. I would make the DING! and my friend and I had to hold in our laughter until tears filled my eyes and fell down my face. I told the teacher I was just so moved by what she said. Am I going to Hell?)</i></div>
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It's not as funny when you're reading it over and over. As a reader and a writer I notice these things. The Twilight series has "Incredulous" on nearly every page. The Mortal Instruments Series, not as bad, but still too many to count. At least Cassandra Clare gets points for using "Incredulity" instead.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
I tried to think why YA writers use this word so much:</div>
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<ul>
<li>Maybe the author thinks that's what sullen, angsty teens do. Look at each other incredulously. Like the dumb expression- shifting their weigh and cocking their heads, like duh, don't you get it? "I'm a teenager and you're just an adult that doesn't understand anything, because you must've skipped being a teenager." I hope that, as an author, I can give teenagers some credit. Not all are "Incredulous."</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Maybe it's just a fun word that hasn't gotten it's time in the sun, like "Farfegnugen" or "Chimichanga."</li>
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<ul>
<li>Maybe authors think they sound smarter when they use it, the magical word that makes an instant connection to the reader. "That's a smart word. I must be reading a smart book."</li>
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My point - We notice these things. Readers are not stupid. We hate it when you spell out the plot for us and we notice the lack of originality with wordplay. Authors might not, but I sure do. There are millions of words out there. So, get out your thesaurus and pick a new one.</div>
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cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-30944473754660059512013-09-16T21:13:00.001-07:002013-09-16T21:13:26.397-07:00The Wet Blanket - A Love Story...People wonder why I don't take my husband to all my GEEKING OUT, like midnight movies and book signings... well, I don't wonder at all. I know perfectly well why I DON'T take him. Heck, I don't even invite him.<br />
<br />
My husband Kevin is a constant thinker. His brain is actively working all the time. Many nights he falls asleep on the couch just so the TV can lull him to sleep. So, sometimes he thinks too much.<br />
<br />
One of my more recent "Geeking" was STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS. Lots of my friends wanted to go. I bought thirty or more tickets for everyone. I made shirts, my friend Rick made Star Trek communicators... we had a blast.<br />
<br />
My husband came, but I didn't sit next to him - not because I didn't like him, but there wasn't a spot, which was fine. He didn't say much after, because I loved it so much, even though I was routing for the bad guy. Our marriage survived it.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I watched it again last Friday after I received my pretty new Blue-Ray from Amazon. Sunday morning - nearly 36 hours later - he comes into the kitchen and says to me, "Don't ask where this train of thought came from... But, if Kirk were smarter he wouldn't have detonated the cold fusion device in the volcano, he should have detonated it near the volcano or the side of the volcano and it would have had the same effect. Then Spock wouldn't have been in the volcano in the first place and they wouldn't have to rescue him."<br />
<br />
And my reply: "Well, that would have been a boring movie."<br />
<br />
He goes on to tell me in detail about some of the flawed physics in the movie, the Enterprise underwater, the Enterprise tumbling through Earth's gravity... I knew he had stewed about this too much, making things logically right in his busy brain. I'm sitting there listening to him all the while thinking... this is a movie. This is fiction.<br />
<br />
Kev: "I'm just saying that I don't think Kirk thought this plan all the way through."<br />
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Me: "But that would ruin the whole point of the movie."<br />
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Kev: "That bad physics makes for good action movies?"<br />
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Me: "No. That Kirk saves Spock's life. How could he save Spock's life if he wasn't in the volcano?"<br />
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Kev: "It could have happened on the ship later."<br />
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Me: "Boring."<br />
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Kev: "And this is why I don't write for Hollywood."<br />
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...and Kevin... the world is thankful for that!cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-81321729390694610532013-09-10T23:22:00.000-07:002013-09-10T23:45:16.769-07:00The Wrath of Comic Con!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oT3dAzDiVfI/Ui_khZTs8sI/AAAAAAAAA18/1dEG9ONl58Y/s1600/Nervous.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oT3dAzDiVfI/Ui_khZTs8sI/AAAAAAAAA18/1dEG9ONl58Y/s400/Nervous.jpg" width="264" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nervous</td></tr>
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The SLC Comic Con was SOOOOOO much fun! The organizers were worried that a few thousand would show up... WHAT?!<br />
<br />
Are these people even for Salt Lake? We have such a loyal following here of everything Geek worthy. We also have a fabulous Indie underground culture of artists, authors, and creative dynamos. Close to 80,000 people worked past my booth and I took pictures with the best of them.<br />
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I thought I might share some of my favorite pictures with you all so you might feel like you were there.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pe-B-Rd7ZiY/Ui_kcP4-WoI/AAAAAAAAA1s/LodJzuAAx0o/s1600/Saturday+Help.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="475" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pe-B-Rd7ZiY/Ui_kcP4-WoI/AAAAAAAAA1s/LodJzuAAx0o/s640/Saturday+Help.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Awesome Saturday Crew - Meliss, Beckers, Me, and Sare Bear</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RcygvIEJATU/Ui_7YU5zQZI/AAAAAAAAA3k/5kZ9zc6QzGc/s1600/image+(1).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RcygvIEJATU/Ui_7YU5zQZI/AAAAAAAAA3k/5kZ9zc6QzGc/s640/image+(1).jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I loved this costume! My Illumium Q-36 Explosive Space Modulator.</td></tr>
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The line for the Tardis was super long. We got there just at the right time. It must have just arrived. ;)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QC5XMZ0rGgw/Ui_knFrHJ9I/AAAAAAAAA2E/qDAA0HQvSp4/s1600/The+Doctor's+New+COmpanions.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QC5XMZ0rGgw/Ui_knFrHJ9I/AAAAAAAAA2E/qDAA0HQvSp4/s640/The+Doctor's+New+COmpanions.jpg" width="425" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Doctor's new Companions. Don't you love Becky's Tardis hat?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xsdo4eqjlLw/Ui_0ggD6jyI/AAAAAAAAA3I/OR2nAhuOc0E/s1600/20130906_123453_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xsdo4eqjlLw/Ui_0ggD6jyI/AAAAAAAAA3I/OR2nAhuOc0E/s400/20130906_123453_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">YUNA!!! My fave Final Fantasy X!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtbP-Rxi9eo/UjAAwjtWnKI/AAAAAAAAA4M/fxs9YMTOYEY/s1600/20130906_154528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UtbP-Rxi9eo/UjAAwjtWnKI/AAAAAAAAA4M/fxs9YMTOYEY/s400/20130906_154528.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We found him... Where's Waldo?</td></tr>
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I think this picture would have been better from the above level looking out over the crowd. Clever... clever people.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;">Julie helped my on Thursday. She's so awesome!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PJjg71UkFhk/Ui_kgqlYxII/AAAAAAAAA14/dNft3HaGE_I/s1600/R2D4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PJjg71UkFhk/Ui_kgqlYxII/AAAAAAAAA14/dNft3HaGE_I/s320/R2D4.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This R2 unit has a bad motivator! with Julie First day</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MBd6kIO11rM/Ui_0rP68ckI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/aXLbkH2TuiI/s1600/20130905_172142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MBd6kIO11rM/Ui_0rP68ckI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/aXLbkH2TuiI/s400/20130905_172142.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julie wearing the Everstar on her Face!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OoHQ1JW2tyc/Ui_0w-bXiaI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/_hq1ETO1xpg/s1600/20130905_185433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OoHQ1JW2tyc/Ui_0w-bXiaI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/_hq1ETO1xpg/s640/20130905_185433.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DON'T BLINK!!</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
This was the year of the Doctor. There were a lot of people dressed up as one doctor or the other... I mean, they only have 11 to pick from. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QF8tWYoTgBs/Ui_7cIeisaI/AAAAAAAAA30/5BaCXQsuWzE/s1600/image.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QF8tWYoTgBs/Ui_7cIeisaI/AAAAAAAAA30/5BaCXQsuWzE/s400/image.jpeg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Oh Zooly - you nut!"</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">My husband's the one n the cape - a cape his grandmother </span><span style="text-align: center;">made for him when he was 5. The cape that says Kevin! </span><span style="text-align: center;">This was what he did the whole conference, photo bomb </span><span style="text-align: center;">people's pictures with his cape. So look through your </span><span style="text-align: center;">pictures everyone. Look for the man in the cape.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BG5KhZW127E/UjAA3bI6KRI/AAAAAAAAA4U/L16SKA8Jv5o/s1600/Kevin's+Cape.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BG5KhZW127E/UjAA3bI6KRI/AAAAAAAAA4U/L16SKA8Jv5o/s640/Kevin's+Cape.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My husband photo bombing some Halo guy.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EX6iywWxoYs/UjACjalkpPI/AAAAAAAAA4o/3xsYRp8XCow/s1600/2013-09-07+12.59.45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EX6iywWxoYs/UjACjalkpPI/AAAAAAAAA4o/3xsYRp8XCow/s400/2013-09-07+12.59.45.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I had to take a picture of Fry and Leela! This was right in front of my booth.<br />
Great Location right next to the Doctor Who Posters.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wYxr8w5HIjM/Ui_7ZtYq9pI/AAAAAAAAA3s/rS8zCmAZB6Q/s1600/image+(2).jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wYxr8w5HIjM/Ui_7ZtYq9pI/AAAAAAAAA3s/rS8zCmAZB6Q/s640/image+(2).jpeg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"You are part of the Rebellion Alliance and a Trader!"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AFUFBGFSZ8I/UjAKvzsCydI/AAAAAAAAA44/0kTZMZ46FsA/s1600/Nerdy+family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AFUFBGFSZ8I/UjAKvzsCydI/AAAAAAAAA44/0kTZMZ46FsA/s640/Nerdy+family.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Nerdy Family. This picture took years to make. At least now we have an excuse to get together once a year.</td></tr>
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And a check mark on my bucket list - me with Kevin Sorbo... I had a picture of him pasted in my locker in high school... a picture I placed in a scrapbook and grabbed to get it autographed. Before the doors opened, during VIP hours I thought I might get a chance to see him, and there he was with only a few people in line. I stood there and then I thought "I can't do this" and went back to my booth. I totally chickened out. I placed the picture back in my bag and left it there. Ten minutes later my husband came over to the booth, grabbed my hand and said, "I need to borrow her for a second." He took me over to Kevin Sorbo, where I guess they were discussing me and had me meet him and take a picture. I was so starstruck and couldn't speak... so tall and hunky. I couldn't believe it. I'm placing this picture right next to the one I have with Bruce Campbell.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BskSee20RlU/UjACYMFoQgI/AAAAAAAAA4g/ZvlahX7otsg/s1600/IMG_20130905_160528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BskSee20RlU/UjACYMFoQgI/AAAAAAAAA4g/ZvlahX7otsg/s640/IMG_20130905_160528.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br />
I can't wait for next year!</div>
cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3025146252795891391.post-39760783073471690992013-08-23T12:47:00.002-07:002013-08-23T13:06:49.955-07:00Bring on the... CON!!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YWHdkVFD5Us/Uhe86bwut0I/AAAAAAAAA1A/11V21kXNJz0/s1600/star+trek.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YWHdkVFD5Us/Uhe86bwut0I/AAAAAAAAA1A/11V21kXNJz0/s320/star+trek.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ticket for Star Trek Into Darkness</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Geekdom has always been a part of my life. I love fulfilling the full measure of the nerdy things I'm passionate about. <b>Harry Potter, Doctor Who, Hunger Games, Sherlock or Cumberbatch</b>, take your pick - the list goes on and on.<br />
<br />
If I tell you that I love Midnight shows mostly because of the freakshow I think you might understand. The crowd is there as crazy as you, fueled by the energy and a few Mountain Dews.I live for it!!!<br />
<br />
Just to list on my resume:<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kZ5KYZMfyHY/Uhe8goYv5yI/AAAAAAAAA0o/CoCIzzqpZlQ/s1600/1st+in+line.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kZ5KYZMfyHY/Uhe8goYv5yI/AAAAAAAAA0o/CoCIzzqpZlQ/s320/1st+in+line.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1st in line!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
...I stood at
the very front of a line of hundreds, dressed as Luna Lovegood, waiting for the
7th Harry Potter at the Salt Lake Barnes and Noble.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03ZHRx4eW1A/Uhe8kcEc1yI/AAAAAAAAA0w/-Ynxf7MyQq8/s1600/breaking+dawn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03ZHRx4eW1A/Uhe8kcEc1yI/AAAAAAAAA0w/-Ynxf7MyQq8/s200/breaking+dawn.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Imprinting is for Babies" Shirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
..I've made snarky shirts
of 6 out of the 8 HP movies, Hunger Games, Twilight, Hobbit, and the newest Star Trek Into
Darkness... awesome!! <br />
<br />
<br />
...and I'm slowly collecting more Sherlock crap
than I could ever find useful.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4MM_IxKrbus/Uhe_HISQ_hI/AAAAAAAAA1M/CeJYi4B8Hic/s1600/sherlock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4MM_IxKrbus/Uhe_HISQ_hI/AAAAAAAAA1M/CeJYi4B8Hic/s200/sherlock.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The deerstalker makes me write better.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z95ypXoaX84/Uhe86YLjDuI/AAAAAAAAA08/kTVKyAqHRyY/s1600/sherlocked.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z95ypXoaX84/Uhe86YLjDuI/AAAAAAAAA08/kTVKyAqHRyY/s320/sherlocked.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sherlocked!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, to tell you, I couldn't be more tickled to get a chance to be a part of this years SLC Comic Con is a complete understatement.</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">I AM</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"> FREAKING </span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">OUT!!</span></b> </div>
<br />
Yes... Yes... I'm sure you all want to stand in line to get a photo op with <b>Shatner, or Adam West</b>. I mean, who wouldn't??<br />
<br />
And yes, you can take that picture of <b>Kevin Sorbo</b> that you've had since high school, that you ripped from a TV Guide and hung in you locker autographed by the <b>Herc</b> himself.<br />
<br />
And why not visit <b>Tia Carrere </b>while your at it, I know that's where my husband will be, along with any other male Wayne's World fans!<br />
<br />
But if you really want the full CON experience, for it to meet its full Nerd potential, come swing by my booth. I'll be there all 3 days.<br />
<br />
My goal this year is to take my picture with as many <b>Slave Leia's</b> as possible and to get a picture with <b>Kevin Sorbo</b>. It will go perfect next to my picture with<b> Bruce Campbell.</b><br />
<br />
Hope to see you there.<br />
<br />
http://saltlakecomiccon.com/cani-jo (Candace J. Thomas)http://www.blogger.com/profile/01237031771597118371noreply@blogger.com1