Cool Geek Christmas Gifts, How I Miss You Blogfest, and Ninja News!

Cool Christmas Gifts for the Geeks in Your Life

Christmas is just one month away! Don’t panic – I found some cool, geeky stuff that Santa can bring…

Dancing Groot – only $9.99 from Toys R Us

Star Trek t-shirts – only $28.64 from RedBubble

Captain America Minion iPhone case – only $7.05 from Ali Express
(And they have a lot more Minion super heroes.)

The Ewoking Dead t-shirt – only $15.00 from Gifts.com

Pre-order for 2015
Melting Nazi from Raiders of the Lost Ark candle – only $31.29 from Firebox

And of course, retro t-shirts from Jeremy Hawkins’ Neat-O-Shop, including the Better Off Dead hamburger and the Ninja Army!

Ninja News

At the A to Z Blog today is Joss from Dreaming of Publication, talking about her theme for the Challenge – dogs!

It’s time for the second annual Holiday Food Drive! Started by MJ Joachim and the late Tina Downey, MJ is continuing the tradition with Jeremy Hawkins again providing the graphic. Check out how you can participate HERE and at the Effectively Human Community on Google+.


Are you a self-published indie author? Then you need to check out this giant list of indie book reviewers – over five hundred! Courtesy of laekanzeakemp.

Want to know what it’s like to be a full time writer? Then you need to read this post by Steven Symes.

Thank to everyone who has added Dragon of the Stars to their Goodread lists and voted for it in the Most Anticipated Science Fiction of 2015 list. It’s climbed to number three!

New releases!

Tarsier Man – A War Like None Before
By Pat Hatt

Dead Wrong
By Patricia Stoltey

Beacon
By Angela Brown

How I Miss You Blogfest

Hosted by Andrew Leon, Alex J. Cavanaugh, and Matthew MacNish

The bloggers you miss and the ones you would miss.
List one to three bloggers you really miss.
List one to three bloggers you would really miss if they stopped blogging.
And then go let them know!

The three bloggers I miss are…

Mark Means at Left and Write
Mark still posts now and then, but not at the same pace he used to post. The dude is a cool geek and I miss the geeky updates. Plus his A to Z Challenge themes always rock.

Old Kitty at Ten Lives and Second Chances
One of my first blogger buddies was Old Kitty. She’d post photos of her cat Charlie, now joined by Gumtree. It’s been many months since she posted and I really miss her. No one is as upbeat and positive as Old Kitty.

Tina Downey at Life is Good
I couldn’t do this list without mentioning Tina. I think about her often and there is still this void where her snark and humor used to reside. There are people you can’t imagine being gone, can’t imagine dying, and that’s what I always thought about Tina. I know she’s having a grand time in Heaven, running through the sunflowers, but the world is just a little bit dimmer without her light. Love you and miss you, Tina.

People I would miss if they stopped blogging:

This was tough! I’d miss all of you. Rather than play favorites, I thought I’d list three people who might not realize how much I’d miss them…

LG Keltner at Writing Off the Edge
LG, you are a fellow science fiction geek and writer, and you are so faithful to your friends. You always have the best A to Challenge themes and have dedicated yourself to the IWSG. (And you’re one of my best co-hosts.) You would be sorely missed, so don’t ever quit!

Ivy at The Happy Whisk
Ivy, I count on you for my daily laugh and chuckle. We’ve followed each other for years and I enjoy both your posts and our email banter. You paused in your blogging once before, and it really sucked. Don’t do it again. You are indeed Wonder Woman. And you always make me laugh.

Heather Gardner at The Waiting is the Hardest Part
Heather!!!! If I ever posted and there wasn’t an ‘Alex!!!’ in the comments from you, I’d send out a search party. You are one of the funniest, snarkiest, most spirited and strong-willed people I know. You rock the A to Z Team, keeping us in line. You’re such an awesome supporter and someone I can count on a hundred percent. You’re also one of my best friends. You ROCK!

Who do you miss? Who would you miss?



See some geeky gifts you just have to buy? Joining the Holiday Food Drive or picking up some new books? And who do you miss and who would you miss in the blogging world…?

I will be traveling over the Thanksgiving holiday, so I’ll be very sparse here online Wednesday through Saturday. To all my American friends, have an awesome Thanksgiving!

Retro A to Z Challenge: A – Apollo 11 Landing 1969

Co-Host, Ninja Captain Alex J. Cavanaugh, welcomes you to the fifth annual A to Z Challenge!

Apollo 11 - 1969

The Apollo 11 moon landing on July 20, 1969 was one of the most monumental points in our history. Man had finally made the journey and set foot on another surface. “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.” And yes, I remember seeing it happen on television. (Anyone else want to admit that?)

1969 fun facts –
*Cost of average house - $15,500. / UK - 4,640. pounds sterling
*Woodstock took place on a New York farm from August 15-17
*The first ATM in the USA was introduced
*The Airplanet was created, predecessor of the Internet
*Monty Python’s Flying Circus debuts
*The Beatles give their last public performance
*The NFL turned fifty

Movies released –
True Grit
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid
Easy Rider

Music released –
Beatles – Yellow Submarine

Why is 1969 special?

Because Old Kitty was born that year and in the same month men walked on the moon!

Kitty is the most positive and energetic soul you will find online. She always has a cheery word and is usually responsible for my first laugh of the day. She posts at Ten Lives and Second Chances, featuring photos of her two cats, Charlie and Gumtree.

Ninja News

Thanks for the prayers and words of support last week. Always scary when it’s your parents, but looks like everything will be fine. Missed you guys and I’m glad to be back.

Challenging Destiny by Cherie Colyer is now available on Kindle and to celebrate, Cherie’s throwing a party and giving away fun prizes! See her blog for details. Find Challenging Destiny at Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Hold Still by Lisa Regan is now available!

Krista McLaughlin’s Breathless is available today! Buy it HERE



The IWSG Site is also participating in the Challenge, and we invite members to share their Challenge posts on the Facebook page. (And don’t forget we post on Wednesday.)

And for those into hard rock, Chevelle's latest, La Gargola, releases today.
Been listening to it on iTunes Radio for the last week, and it's amazing!

Movie Review

Muppets Most Wanted
Even more fun than the last one, the film puts the gang on the road in Europe and part of a international heist. It pokes fun at itself and other pop culture references. There’s an incredible cast of cameos and stars, including Tom Hiddleston, James McAvoy, and Ray Liotta. If you grew up with The Muppet Show, you’ll find a lot to enjoy.

What do you remember from 1969? Have you met Old Kitty? Excited about the new books? Seen the new Muppet movie? And are you ready to rock the A to Z Challenge?

Insecure Writer’s Support Group, Ninja News, Save the Date, Django Unchained Review, and Word of the Year

It’s time for another group posting of the Insecure Writer’s Support Group! Time to release our fears to the world – or offer encouragement to those who are feeling neurotic. If you’d like to join us, click on the tab above and sign up. We post the first Wednesday of every month. I encourage everyone to visit at least a dozen new blogs and leave a comment. Your words might be the encouragement someone needs.

My two awesome co-hosts this month are Tyrean Martinson and Jamie Gibbs! Please be sure to thank them for their time and effort to make all IWSG members feel welcome.

And welcome to 2013! Everyone recharged and ready? Got your goals set? Know exactly what you want to accomplish this year?

Wait, some of you don’t?

That’s all right – I don’t either. I spent the past few weeks enjoying time off, time with family, sleeping, game playing, guitar playing, reading, movie watching, and in general a whole lot of nothing. Outside of plans for my third book’s release in September and another year of hosting the A to Z Challenge, I haven’t made any big decisions for this year.

Many of you have heard me say my third book might be my last. I never wanted to be an author and I think it rather caught me by surprise. Music has always been a part of my life though, and in the past year it has evolved into something even larger. And I may have some decisions to make as to which creative path to pursue.

I don’t want to let down you guys or my fans, but I don’t want to let down God either. He got me this far - I just need to figure out which way to go from here.

And it’s a lot to consider! Why did God get me to this point? Really doubt it was to make my books so successful. (Yes, they are clean and morally sound, but they are not going to change lives.) Was it to get me to a point where I can really help other writers and bloggers? That is more likely. But do I need to keep writing books to do that? Do I need to write something else? Or do I need to pursue my new musical career? (Since I’m playing contemporary Christian, it might really change lives.)

So, I’ll be doing a lot of thinking and praying over the next month or two, looking for my answer. God will lead me to a place where I can have the greatest impact. Whatever that may be is fine with me. (Even if I do have to keep writing more books, which yes, scares the crap out of me!)

Be sure to visit others on the LIST.

NinjaNews

Milo James Fowler at In Media Res posted his numbers for the year. Thanks to Write1Sub1, Milo had thirty-five stories accepted this year for publication. Plus there’s a lot more that happened in 2012. Congratulations, Milo!!

If you haven’t had a chance, Old Kitty (keeper of Charlie and Gumtree) has a story in Writers for Animals, which is available on Amazon UK. All profits will be donated to animal sanctuaries, so not only will you get to read Kitty’s story, you will help out some animals.

Misha at My First Book has a project for the year involving Awareness and Paying it Forward – and she’s looking for others to join her. See Misha’s site for details.

Save the Date!

There have been so many blogfests lately, I decided I didn’t want to rush into the New Year with another one – but, I do have the date selected! Monday, March 18. And I’m going back to one of the very first blogfests I ever hosted. (Back when I had less than two hundred followers.) I’m sure MOST of you missed those early fests, so this will be a chance to do a simple, fun, everyone-can-participate blogfest before the A to Z Challenge kicks off.

Movie Review

Django Unchained
It’s a very straightforward story but told in Tarantino’s style. It wasn’t as violent or gory as critics claimed, either. (Although the gunfights are bloody and the depiction of slavery brutal.) Overall, the film is a fun western like only Tarantino could do.
Christoph Waltz is spectacular. He steals every scene, and as a bounty hunter with a heart, you’re never really sure what he’s going to say or do.
There are moments of extreme humor as well. Some are so zany, you start to wonder if the film isn’t a broad comedy.
It’s as long as The Hobbit, but like that movie, it didn’t feel long. (Again, skip the big drink.)
If you enjoy Tarantino films, go see it. If not, then this movie isn’t going to change your mind.

Word for the Year

I got this idea from Tina. It’s a word to guide us in our decisions throughout 2013. Tina stated her word for 2013 was contentment. I started thinking about what word I would chose, and I received confirmation of my choice in Liza’s thankful post this week.

My Word for the Year – GIVE

What word would you choose?

What insecurities are you facing today? Or are you feeling the optimism of a new year? March 18 marked now? See Django Unchained or another movie over the holidays? Have a great Christmas? And what is your word for 2013?

Epic Ninja News and the YOU ROCK! Award

Did you miss me Wednesday? I'm taking a few days off here and there to work on my next book. (And heads up – I won’t be posting on Monday either.)

Today I have an interview/review over at Michael Pierce Books. Michael is the author of Provex City and I’m honored to have a guest spot at his blog today.

Epic Ninja News!

Ciara Knight is revealing the cover art for her next book today – Weighted! And you can add it to your Goodreads shelf now. Congratulations, Ciara!

Weighted is a young adult post-apocalyptic with paranormal elements. It is a prequel novelette to The Neumarian Chronicles, and will be released August 2012. Book I, Escapement, will be released in 2013.

Blurb: The Great War of 2185 is over, but my nightmare has just begun. I am being held captive in the Queen’s ship awaiting interrogation. My only possible ally is the princess, but I’m unsure if she is really my friend or a trap set by the Queen to fool me into sharing the secret of my gift. A gift I keep hidden even from myself. It swirls inside my body begging for release, but it is the one thing the Queen can never discover. Will I have the strength to keep the secret? I’ll know the answer soon. If the stories are true about the interrogators, I’ll either be dead or a traitor to my people by morning.

Michael Malone’s new book, Blood Tears, comes out in paperback on June 6, but it is available as an eBook now. Congratulations, Michael! Visit his site, May Contain Nuts, for the links.

“Lady Gwen” Gardner tipped me off about this opportunity - Sharon Bayliss just signed a publishing contract with Curiosity Quills Press, and she’s having an Editor-Judged query contest (May 25-28) with a chance at a publishing contract for the winner. Go visit her site HERE to sign up. Thanks, Gwen!

Alex’s YOU ROCK! Award

Every year, I give out the YOU ROCK! Award to up to five blogger buddies. These are people who have become very special to me and been supportive friends beyond the call of duty. Past recipients include: Jeffrey Beesler at World of the Scribe, Gail at Familiar Spirits, Rusty Webb at The Blutonian Death Egg, Chuck at Apocalypse Now, George at CineMarvellous, Lee at Tossing it Out, Yvonne Lewis at Welcome to my World of Poetry, RaShelle Workman at A No. 2 Pencil Stat, and Hannah (who sadly no longer blogs) at Musings of a Palindrome.

I know SO many awesome people online that it was nearly impossible to narrow it down to five. I could give this to a hundred bloggers. So I cheated and picked seven! This year’s YOU ROCK! recipients are:

Matthew at The QQQE
I met Matthew around two years ago and at once identified with his attitude and demeanor. Can’t think of many others who are as supportive, honest, and genuine as Matthew. You think I am a commenting and networking Ninja, but my inspiration came from this man. And after working with him on a couple blogfests and the Challenge, I know he is for real. Maybe one day we’ll meet. Until then – thanks, Matthew. You the man! And you rock!

Old Kitty at Ten Lives and Second Chances
They say there are no guarantees in life, but that’s only because they haven’t met Kitty! She is one of the most consistent, stable, and faithful bloggers I know. And her comments are guaranteed to make me laugh every time! After two years of her positive, spirited presence, I don’t know what I would do without her. And Charlie. Kitty, you are a total doll and the brightest spot in the blogging world. You rock!

Ella at Ella’s Edge 
I met Ella during the first Challenge and she is the most thoughtful person I know. Her creativity knows no bounds and I watch it unfold on her blog with awe. Ella’s words flow like a peaceful stream and helped me develop an appreciation for poetry. Even more, she is a devoted friend who exchanges meaningful comments and observations. (Meaningful on her part – I probably just sound lame.) Despite the vast differences in our blogs, there is much about Ella to which I can relate. Ella, you rock on every level!

M. Pax at Wistful Nebulae
Mary is one of those people who flies just under the radar sometimes. But she is always THERE. In fact, I can’t remember a time when she wasn’t there! Mary has so many unique interests and she’s involved on every level, which I really admire. We share a lot of science fiction and geek interests, so I know hanging out with her in person would be a damn good time. She’s a gifted writer, excellent photographer, and special friend. Mary, you rock!

Roland Yeomans at Writing in the Crosshairs
I’ve followed Roland’s blog for a long time although at first I felt too inadequate to leave an intelligent comment. (Still feel like that but I comment anyway. I’m sure I amuse him.) Roland has a deeper understanding of the world than most and an appreciation for the human spirit in all its complexities. He truly paints with words. I am honored to have a friendship with this wise and devoted person. Roland, you rock!

Melissa Bradley at Melissa’s Imaginarium
I’ve come to know Melissa through a mutual admiration of all things geek. (And just where were all you cool geek girls when I was in school?) She’s a talented author, movie expert, and strong woman who knows where she’s going in life. Her friendship is unwavering and she goes to great lengths to support those dear to her heart. It’s easy to think of her as just one of the guys, but Melissa is a true lady. My dear, you rock!

Jeremy Hawkins at Retro Zombie
Last but not least, we have Jeremy. This guy is uber-cool on so many levels. Visiting his site, you might think he’s quirky, but Jeremy is the sanity in the midst of insanity. He is the voice of reason, colored by that awesome wit of his. A talented author and artist, Jeremy is beyond generous and willing to do anything to help another person. I appreciate his sincerity, his honesty, and his always positive attitude. Jeremy, you rock!

Whoa! Excited about Ciara’s next book? Plan to pick up Michael’s book or enter the query contest? Following those seven bloggers who ROCK? Seeing Men in Black III this weekend? Any other Memorial Day Weekend plans? Don’t forget to visit Michael Pierce Books. And have an awesome weekend!

ENERGETIC and ENTHUSIASTIC - A to Z Challenge

It’s the third A to Z Challenge! Blog the letters of the alphabet in order every day except Sundays The participation list is HERE – start with the blog after yours and visit at least five blogs a day. Mostly, make new friends and have fun!

My theme – I have selected a word for each day and will present to you blogger buddies who fit that description, along with movies, music, etc. My theme is to give back, highlight some awesome bloggers, and have fun in the process.

ENERGETIC and ENTHUSIASTIC

Old Kitty at Ten Lives and Second Chances

No one has more energy and enthusiasm than Kitty. You may think I am the blogging Ninja, but she is everywhere – every day! She is just so full of joy and wit. I don’t know what I’d do without a comment from Kitty. We may only be graced with posts once a week from her and Charlie, but her energy lasts all week. Kitty, you are a true blessing! I can’t give you Daniel Craig in person, so hope this will suffice. (And enjoy, as it’s the only man shot I intend to ever feature here!!!)

Nancy Thompson

Her icon says it all – just look at that smile! Nancy is also a total blogging Ninja, pouncing with glee. She judges not but approaches every person as if he or she is a good friend. Her posts are always upbeat, as are her comments. No matter what I post, I know Nancy will swoop in and say something encouraging. She’s one cool ball of positive energy! And soon to be a published author… her book comes out October 18, 2012.

Kvelertak
Take a dash of punk, rock, metal and hardcore and stick it in a blender. The tasty concoction is the Norwegian band Kvelertak. This is my go to music whenever I need high energy. The album is pure fun start to finish. Don't expect any English though - all of the lyrics are in Norwegian!

Ninja News!

Thanks to everyone who posted for the Insecure Writer’s Support Group yesterday. The group now has a life of its own.

And apologies to anyone I missed yesterday. I blogged a little in the morning before meetings took me hostage. When I came back after lunch, there were a hundred and fifty unread posts in my blogger buddies folder alone. I really do wish I had clones to keep up with everyone, but I gave it my best shot yesterday. And I know so many have left comments here – I will visit you by this weekend!

Are you following Kitty and Nancy? Ever heard of Kvelertak? Having fun with the Challenge? Forgive the Ninja if I can’t get to your blog today? (I’m really trying!) Who or what would you call energetic or enthusiastic? And tomorrow I announce my next blogfest! (Relax, it’s not until mid-May.)

News, Bloggers, Quiz, and Next Blogfest...?

Lots of great stuff today!

Jeremy at izombie just released an eBook called Chatterbox! It’s a series of short stories (almost like Drabbles) with images created by Jeremy himself. Check it out at Chatterbox
He’ll also be doing a guest spot here in a few weeks.




Last summer I took a class called Blog Book Tours and it really helped me prepare for my first virtual book tour. Dani is offering another class in September and you don’t want to miss it!

I received the Appreciated Follower Award, created by RJR Daydreamer
It’s too honor followers who visit and comment on a regular basis.
Wow, you all deserve it! Where do I begin? Without all of you commenting, I’d just be talking to myself.
I pass this on to…
Laila at Untroubled Kingdom of Laila Knight
Old Kitty at Ten Lives and Second Chances
Patrick Tillett

Alexia gave me the Liebster Blog Award. This award is to recognize bloggers with less than two hundred followers. (Yeah, I’m a bit over the limit!)
Here are three bloggers who deserve some recognition:
Huntress at Spirit Called
Monti at Notes Along the Way
Budd at SciFi Media

And since you guys enjoyed last Friday’s quiz, here’s two more pop culture questions:

The Lexx was a living spaceship on these four TV movies before it was a series – name the movie series title!


Name the song VH1 Classics declared as the number one rock song of the 1980’s. Bonus fuzzy feelings if you can name the second song as well!

Tune in Friday for some big news – the next awesome Blogfest!

Any guesses?

And has anyone located Boba Fett’s Carbonite Crunch?

A to Z Challenge - T and Disqus Issues!!!

For the A to Z Challenge, I am featuring some awesome bloggers. These individuals have offered so much support of my book, CassaStar, and me on my blogger journey. Of course, I’ll be keeping up with the world of movies, music, and pop culture stuff as well! Ninjas are just talented that way...


Ten Lives and Second Chances
Without a doubt, Kitty is one of my favorite people online! She possess such a great attitude and the origin of her blog title is really touching. Where she shines is in her comments! I have to make sure I’m not drinking when I read them. Kitty possesses a playful spirit that shines all over the web, and I’m honored she graces my blog with her presence.

Tessa's Blurb
Tessa is a writer - she thinks! But I know she's a writer. She's also an avid reader. She discusses both on her blog, but there's a lot more to Tessa. She's a sweetheart, and you'll discover that when she visits your blog. (I think she visits mine because I amuse her...)

DISQUS ISSUES!

For those of you who use the Disqus comment box, I've experienced challenges this week. I think a couple others had trouble as well. So, if you have a Disqus comment box (Ocean Girl, TS, Maurice) I may or may not be able to leave a comment. Sorry!

Anyone else feeling challenged with Disqus?

Have a Happy Easter, everyone! Got a couple movies to watch, but not heading to the theater. Wife wants to see the stupid cat movie. Last fall, the stupid horse movie was all right, but didn't care for the stupid owl movie. Maybe I should just avoid animal flicks in general!

My book trailer is in another contest at You Gotta Read Videos! If you think my trailer is cool and all that, please go vote!!! My publisher did such an awesome job with the trailer…

Friends for the Journey

Last weekend, Michelle Gregory at Beautiful Chaos created a special badge for those who’s helped her on the journey. I was honored to receive the "Friends for the Journey" Blog Encouragement, and now it’s my turn to pass it along.

I’ve deliberated about this all week. Crap, who do I select? Even worse, who will I leave out? So many of you have encouraged me, sent emails, left comments, read and featured my book… I finally selected, but if you’re not one of the seven, please don’t feel left out. You’ve all helped me so much!

The Rules for Passing It On:
1. Pass it on to 7 other bloggers and tell how they've encouraged you.
2. Please let your recipients know that it started at Beautiful Chaos.
3. Leave a comment on this post when you've posted on your blog.

Kitty at Ten Lives and Second Chances
This woman never has a bad day – I don’t think it’s possible! She’s cheery and upbeat in her posts and comments. Kitty’s silly joy is infectious and her presence makes everyone’s day just a little brighter. You make me laugh, Kitty! And often when I need it the most.

Arlee Bird at Tossing it Out
Lee’s pushed me with blogfests and challenges. He’s pushed me with my writing. (Dude, CassaStar’s sequel takes place on a planet and there’s a RIVER – water issue solved!) Lee goes to great lengths for his blogging buddies and for the whole community, and I appreciate his efforts.

Yvonne at Welcome to my World of Poetry
We’ve faithfully visited each other’s blog since last year’s A to Z Challenge. Yvonne doesn’t listen to my type of music or watch my kind of movies and I have no idea how to write a poem. But our friendship is formed out of mutual respect and admiration, and Yvonne is the most devoted person I know. And the woman loves playground slides! How cool is that?

Edi at Edi’s Book Lighthouse
Edi was part of my blog tour last year with a review and feature. And he could’ve just left it at that. But he’s continued to support and encourage me, often inquiring of the sequel. Edi, I really, really appreciate that!

Jeffrey at World of the Scribe
He’s plugged my book, my trailer, my site – he’s the Dude! His commitment and enthusiasm keep me going and he always knows when a friend needs a boost. It will be an awesome honor when his first book comes out for me to return the favor!

Lynda at W.I.P. It and Fearfully and Wonderfully
Lynda is the type of person I’d call a quiet, stable presence. Both of her blogs are encouraging and her comments reflect that spirit. I always look forward to your positive words, Lynda!

Patrick Tillett Patrick is one of those individuals who doesn’t make a big splash and sometimes flies under the radar. But he’s consistent and steady, like a giant rock in a raging river. Dude, your support has not gone unnoticed and I appreciate it!

Who’s encouraged you on your journey?

And yes, the next gen iPad March 11 – I am so there!

Starting the New Year off with a Smile!

Happy New Year! Today, it’s all about the smiles…

Today is the Eye Candy Blogfest, hosted by Vicki at Rambles and Randomness “Post a favorite picture - something that makes you smile every time you see it.” Be sure to check out the others entries as well! I thought long and hard (and almost hurt myself) over which picture to select. Yes, my first thought was Kate Beckinsale. I won’t deny it. But ultimately, I selected an image that holds a special meaning for me. This is Frank Frazetta’s “Battlestar Galactica,” created for the original TV show:  Battlestar Galactica and Star Wars were big influences on my original idea for CassaStar. This painting sparked my imagination more than any other medium. I could see the Cassans and their ships, and the adventures of Byron and Bassa came to life. The desolate, rocky planet in the painting even became a scene in my story, and the only one to survive the rewrite. (I’m sure those who’ve read the book know the scene, as it was also the most difficult to write.) So when I look at this picture, I smile – the raw beginnings of CassaStar!

I also received the Making Smiles on Faces Award from L’Aussie. Thanks so much! Most of my blogging friends are good at making me smile! (Which made narrowing it down REALLY tough.) But I couldn’t list everyone, so I just selected a few special charmers: Abby at Above Water Yvonne at Welcome to my World of Poetry Old Kitty at Ten Lives and Second Chances Jules at Trying to Get Over the Rainbow Thanks to everyone who voted for my trailer at Parajunkee. She’ll announce the winners soon! Meanwhile, the book trailer contest voting at Spunk On A Stick’s Tips starts today! Mine’s one of almost twenty trailers. If you think it’s the best, hop on over and vote! And a special thanks to Edi’s Book Lighthouse - he just posted the best books of 2010 and CassaStar was in the top three from small publishers. Thanks, Edi – that definitely makes me smile!

Movie Review and Awards!

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader

The third book in this series of seven is without a doubt my favorite. However, due to lackluster reviews of the movie, I went in with low expectations. Before I give my review, I will offer a disclaimer. If you’ve never read the books, you might not like it as much. If you’ve read and loved the books and are fully invested in the characters, you’ll probably enjoy it much more.

Dawn Treader follows the book much closer than Prince Caspian and is a better film. It’s not as powerful or memorable as the first film, but it boasts good pacing and a fun adventure. Lucy and Edmond return to Narnia, dragging along their dour cousin, Eustace. This is where the movie nails it – Eustace is perfect. He’s a sourpuss and wet blanket in the beginning and you pretty much hate the kid – until a moment of greed changes his form.

It also conveys a strong message to those of faith every time Aslan appears on the screen. The ending is very moving, and I was impressed they kept a key line from the book, spoken by Aslan – “In your world, you know me by another name.”

It’s not perfect, but overall it’s a good fantasy and Christmas movie. I enjoyed it!

Next up, some awards I’ve been hoarding:

The “Awesome Award of Awesome Awesomeness!” From Jamie at Mithril Wisdom. Jamie’s blog just turned one and he’s a really cool young man with a bright future. Thanks, Jamie!

I am passing this on to Old Kitty, who has never failed to stop by with a witty comment. (Of course, she must share this award with Charlie…)

I received the “L'Aussie Fair Dinkum Award” from L’Aussie Writing. Thanks so much!

I am passing it on to Talli Roland. She’s indeed a fair lass!

And finally, I received the “Summer Blogger Award” from Carol Kilgore at Under the Tiki Hut. Thank you, Carol!

I am passing it on to Laura Eno at A Shift in Dimensions, who is a great example of summer in winter.

Thanks everyone!

Now, anyone else see a cool movie this week? Don’t forget, Inception came out on DVD this week! Next Tuesday, it’s Despicable Me. And has everyone seen Tangled? Why on earth not?!