Star Trek Christmas Gifts, IWSG Update, CheersFest 2.0, and Ninja News!

Gifts for the Star Trek Geek

From Vinport - Star Trek Wine

From Pop Sugar - Mr. Potato Head

From Think Geek - Enterprise Pizza Cutter

From Amazon - Obsessed with Star Trek trivia book

From Know Gifts - Star Trek Shower Curtain Set



You are now free to shop the Internet...

IWSG News and Updates

Thanks for another awesome IWSG day last week!

Please note I do cull the list and remove those who haven’t posted in two months. However, the list is so big, that even with co-hosts, I miss blogs. (Sorry, I’ve just not found a way to visit all of them yet!) If you are removed from the list, you can rejoin at any time.

There are a lot of people posting who are NOT on the list! Please take a moment to make sure your blog is on the list. You’ll get so much more out of it if people can find you.

I am also in need of co-hosts next year. If you can co-host on January 8, February 5, or March 5, let me know in the comments.

And here’s a little tip on what NOT to do on IWSG day. Don’t click on the Mark all as Read check instead of the Refresh button in Feedly first thing in the morning. Yeah, I did that. Crap! So if I missed any of my blogger buddies (because of course it was THAT folder) I apologize.

Don’t forget the amazing contest going on at the Insecure Writer’s Support Group. Thanks to everyone who has entered and helped spread the word about the website and group. (You know who you are and you rock!)

Ninja News

The awesome Pat Hatt at It’s Rhyme Time hit 1000 posts and is hosting a giveaway – and it’s one hundred dollars! Visit his site for details. Congratulations, Pat!

The amazing Elizabeth S. Craig has another cozy mystery out now - Quilt Trip. It’s third of the Southern Quilting Mysteries and you can find it everywhere retail, including Amazon. Congratulations, Elizabeth!

Heather Gardner at Waiting is the Hardest Part is featuring a Pay it Forward Book List. Many of you have already been suggested, and you can in turn suggest a book. Check it out!

Available today!
Diamonds and Dust by River Fairchild
Book 1 of the Jewels of Chandra series

Magic is real. So is betrayal.
Two heirs. A Kingdom of dust on a troubled world. One might resurrect it. One might destroy it all.

Available at: Amazon US, Amazon UK, Kobo, Barnes and Noble, and iTunes

Find River: Blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Amazon

And I won the Dr. Who caption contest at The Geek Twins!

CheersFest 2.0! 

Hosted by Mark “Madman” Koopmans, Alex “Clone me a” Cavanaugh, Morg “the Borg” Shamy, Stephen “Wormhole” Tremp, and David “Don’t Mess with the” King.

CheersFest kicked off last year with the roasting of ME. (It was also known as AlexFest and The Day the Ninja Died. Fortunately, I lived.)

This year, we are celebrating the man of the hour, or rather the alphabet, Arlee Bird (Lee) of Tossing it Out!

In order to proper cheer (or roast) Lee:

Four questions for you to answer - keep the retorts short – (no longer than 20 words each):

Why did Lee come up with the A-Z Challenge?
As a child, he was obsessed with Alphabet Soup.

If someone dreams about being a juggler, what does it mean?
I’m not a professional dream interpreter, but I hope it has nothing to do with balls…

Is a post by Mr. Bird worth two in the bush?
Yes, it’s worth two turtledoves in the bush and a partridge in a pear tree!

Who could play Lee in a documentary? (Living or dead.)
Combine the intensity of Tommy Lee Jones, the quiet composure of Paul Newman, and the juggling skill of Ghandi and you got it!

In +/- 100 words, (excluding the title) write flash fiction using all these prompts:
Bird, Juggler, Challenge, Brown Jacket, Tossing

Noir

Through the smoke filled room, Veteran cop Lee saw the juggler sprawled on the ground. Beaten to death by bowling pin. Not a pretty sight.

And now he had to question the suspects - three colorful birds who were part of the act. Reaching into his brown jacket, he pulled out a notepad.

“Why?” said Lee.

The largest bird ruffled his feathers. “He wanted to change the act and I challenged him. Tossing us around like beanbags could kill us.”

“So you killed him first, Sam?”

“That’s right. Toucan play at that game.”

For Bonus Points:
In +/- 40 words, can you come up with a caption for Lee’s Facebook picture? 


“If I crinkle my velour jacket just right, it spells out HELP ME.”


As usual, the Very Demanding Rules of CheersFest include:
Join the Linky List *below*
Have fun
Post your 200 (total) word contribution ON Monday, Dec. 9, 2013.
No, seriously. Have Fun!

Two winners – chosen by Lee – will each win a prize:
An autographed color photo of Arlee Bird appearing as the Court Wizard in the World of Fantasy Players. Also included in the first prize pack are an assortment of promotional materials from Lee’s show biz days with a personal letter and a brief history of his entertainment career.
A personalized graphics design from Jeremy at Being Retro for the winner’s blog. (Jeremy will design a header, badge, button, banner, or whatever might appeal to the winner.) 

Join the fun below!



See any Star Trek gifts you’d like? Enjoy the IWSG last week? Enter the contest? See any good books? And what fine words would you use to describe this year’s CheersFest roastee, Lee?

The Geek Twins and Greatest Movies Based on Science Fiction Stories! Plus Ninja News and CassaStorm Launch and Tour Updates.

Today I welcome Nigel and Maurice, the awesome brothers who run The Geek Twins!

My brother Maurice and I run the blog, The Geek Twins, where we celebrate sci-fi movies and TV shows. Sci-fi writers have always had a cozy relationship with Hollywood. Their imagination and grand vision have been translated into some fantastic movies. To celebrate them, we present the ten greatest movies based on a sci-fi story.

10. A Clockwork Orange - In a dystopian Britain, a sociopathic youth is subjected to an experiment that makes him physically incapable of violence. Based on the novel of the same name by Anthony Burgess.

9. 1984 - In a dystopian Britain, one man tries to deft the government that monitors and controls all aspects of life. Based on the novel of the same name by George Orwell.

8. Children of Men - In a near future where mankind has become infertile, a man must escort the last pregnant woman to safety. Based on the novel of the same name by PD James.

7. Planet of the Apes - When astronauts crash land on another planet, they find simians are dominant and humans treated like beasts. Based on the novel of the same name by Pierre Boulle.

6. Soylent Green - In an overpopulated future, a cop uncovers a horrifying secret about the popular food, Soylent Green. Loosely based on the novel Make Room! Make Room! By Harry Harrison.

5. Solaris - A spaceship crew orbiting around a mysterious planet finds their dreams coming to life. Based on the novel of the same name by Stanislaw Lem.

4. The Thing - An Antarctic crew is overrun with paranoia when a shape-shifting alien invades their camp. Based on the novella, Who Goes There? By John W. Campbell Jr.

3. Jurassic Park - When a theme park full of genetically engineered dinosaurs goes wrong, the first visitors must escape with their lives. Based on the novel of the same name by Michael Crichton.

2. 2001 - A mission from Earth to investigate a mysterious black monolith becomes threatened by the ship's computer. Based on the novel by Arthur C. Clarke.

1. Blade Runner - In a broken-down city of the future, a cop hunts down robots passing as humans. Based on Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? by Philip K. Dick.

Maurice Mitchell and Nigel Mitchell are The Geek Twins, lovers of all things geek. Nigel Mitchell is an author of several scifi novels, including Flying Saucers and Dead Links. Find his book here on Amazon.

Ninja News

Thanks to everyone who visited The Unicorn Bell on Wednesday. They were in the middle of query week and had lots of posts – if you missed it, click on the link to go directly to my post, Secrets of the Blogging Ninja.

Annalisa Crawford’s That Sadie Thing is now available in paperback!

The 2013 Joust and Realms Faire is now open! This is a great chance to get involved and promote your book. (Sadly I will be on vacation that week, so I had to decline the offer to joust. It would’ve been epic though!) Visit M. Pax’s SITE for details.

Julia King is giving away two signed copies of her novel, Félicité Found.

Briane Pagel’s book is available today - Temporary Anne. He’s also on tour, writing a short horror story as guided by the comments at each of the stops. The tour kicks off today at Life is Good. Good luck, Briane!

13th Floor Complete Collection

The 13th Floor Complete Collection by Christine Rains
Genre: paranormal romance
Release date: October 13th, 2013

Six supernatural tenants
Living in a haunted apartment building
On a floor that doesn't exist.

Includes “The Shadow,” a bonus short story.

Mark it to read on Goodreads.

Find Christine - Website, Blog, Facebook, Twitter, and Goodreads

CassaStorm Launch and Tour Updates!

CassaStorm launches next Tuesday!

All information has been sent to those participating in the launch party. Today is the last day to sign up to participate for a chance to win a Cassa mousepad, Cassa mug, swag, and $25 iTunes gift card. Go HERE to join the fun.

Thursday I had two surprises! An amazing review from Bob at Beauty in Ruins in which he absolutely nailed everything I was trying to convey in the story. There was also a wonderful tribute from my buddy Roland Yeomans that is sure to make you laugh.

My next tour stop is actually Sunday, and I have the honor of appearing on Anne R Allen’s Blog. Her site is a Writer’s Digest 101 Best Websites for Writers winner, and she brings in some top best-selling authors and professionals. And oh yeah, me!

Next week I will be posting Monday through Friday, updating you on the week’s tour stops and events. And I will be giving away prizes!! One comment per day enters you to win – Cassa magnet, Cassa mug, Cassa mousepad, Cassa poster, and a copy of CassaStorm. So now is not the time to be shy – comment to win!!

And I want to thank all of my hosts and everyone participating in the launch event. I never thought I’d come this far on this crazy journey or experience any kind of real success. You guys helped prove me wrong. Thanks for your support. Your friendship is the greatest treasure and reward.

What movie based on a science fiction story or book would you call the greatest? Ready to joust? Ready to win some stuff? Ready to watch me have an Epic Ninja Meltdown next week…?

Networking Tips for Shy Writers, Ninja News, Maguire's Corner, Blog Readers, Wednesday Movie Quote, and the Phone Book

Today I welcome the awesome Christine Rains!

NETWORKING TIPS FOR SHY WRITERS

I love to talk about writing. It's my passion. The problem is, like many writers, I'm shy. I can't just talk to anyone. Sometimes it's all I can do to remember to breathe when in social situations. I'm lucky I've not fainted yet. And yes, that noise is me knocking on wood.

This makes networking immensely difficult. Yet it's a necessity in our profession. How do I meet other authors and promote myself without losing my voice again? (Oh yes, it's happened.)

Thank goodness for the internet! Blogs, Twitter, Facebook, review sites, writer's groups, etc. There are many ways to get your name out there from the safety of your home. You can get cozy in your favorite chair, wear your Star Wars pajamas, and sneak some of your kid's Cheerios when he's not looking.

But one day, you'll have to leave the Godzilla slippers behind and venture out to a writing conference or book signing. Face-to-face with other people. Yikes! How do you survive?

Remember to breathe. It helps not to faint. Those other people are there for the same reason you are. As alone as you might feel, you are one of them.
Be yourself. You might be a little geeky, but so what? Be honest about who you are, let your passions shine through, and you'll be respected for it.
Use being shy to your advantage. Be a good listener, and even though you don't say a lot, remember it's quality over quantity.
Have business cards, flyers, and other promotional items at the ready. If you lose your voice, a card can speak for you. Plus, people love free things. Give stuff away and you'll be remembered.
Smile. A friendly smile will take you a long way.

In the not too distant future, all your networking will likely be done online. We can create avatars of ourselves from the cast of Firefly and chat about writing while hanging out in Serenity. (I call Zoe!) Until then, be proud of who you are. It's okay to be geeky or shy. What you have to say is important because you're the one saying it.

Do you have any face-to-face networking tips for shy writers?

Thank you so much for hosting me today, Alex!

1305 & 1306 – The Oracle and the Vampire (The 13th Floor series, #5)
By Christine Rains
Genre: paranormal romance

Having fallen for her gorgeous neighbor might not be so bad if Harriet McKay wasn't in her hideous banshee form every time Kiral saw her...

Find it here: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Kobo, and Smashwords

Christine Rains is a writer, blogger, and geek mom. She has four degrees which help nothing with motherhood, but make her a great Jeopardy player. When she's not writing or reading, she having adventures with her son or watching cheesy movies on Syfy Channel. She's a member of Untethered Realms and S.C.I.F.I. The 13th Floor series is her first self-published series. She has seven novellas and twenty-one short stories published.
Website Blog Facebook Twitter Goodreads

Ninja News

Thanks to everyone who commented on my interview with Tammy Theriault! She is willing to take on more victims…

Misha Gericke is hosting another Word Master Challenge – Famous Adaptation. See her site for details – you could win an Amazon gift card.

Ellie Garratt’s book, Passing Time, is free through this Friday. Download it from Amazon US or Amazon UK

Coming Soon!!!

Maguire's Corner
By Heather M. Gardner
Published by Front Porch Romance

Coffee shop owner Maggie Maguire doesn’t trust the new police chief her father hired to protect Maguire’s Corner. He’s a stranger, cold, bossy and annoyingly handsome. But, Maggie’s witnessed a serious crime and now someone’s trying to kill her. The man that aggravates her most might be the only one that can help her.

Police Chief Jack Munro likes his new job and his new town, and unfortunately he also likes the stubborn but beautiful town sweetheart. His self-imposed hands-off Maggie policy is about to be put to the ultimate test when he must keep her close to protect her while he tracks down a ruthless killer.

Determined to ignore Jack’s charms, Maggie attempts to help him unravel the mystery but when their lives hang in the balance she must decide how much she’s willing to risk to save the man she suddenly can’t resist.

Congratulations, Heather!

Blog Readers

After solving issues with both Bloglovin’ (couldn’t comment on some blogs) and Feedly (couldn’t delete blogs) I’ve decided I’m going to use… both! Feedly updates faster but Bloglovin’ looks better. (And I have the app.) So I’m just going to bounce back and forth between the two, depending on how I feel that day.

Google Reader may self-destruct now!

Wednesday Movie Quote

Post your favorite here or play along on your own blog.

Today’s genre is monster movies.

My selection comes from Lake Placid:

Mrs. Bickerman (played by Betty White): I'm rooting for the crocodile. I hope he swallows your friends whole. You might want to arrest me for that too. Is that a crime? To wish the chewing of law enforcement?

Next week – sports films!

The Phone Book

This is for Maurice:

Are you a shy writer? Fan of Christine’s series? Excited for Heather’s upcoming book? What Reader are you now using? What is your favorite monster movie quote? And just what is the meaning of the phone book…?

Ninja News, Michael Pierce and Susy Asylum, Jessica Bell and The Book, Movie Trivia Answers, and Favorite Science Fiction Movie Quote

Ninja News

Misha Gericke is hosting a monthly Paying Forward Award with great prizes. Some awesome people nominated – and big thanks to someone for nominating me for Most Encouraging Blogger! Visit her site for the list and then send your selections to her via email. Thanks for hosting this award, Misha!

The Geek Twins had a “Caption This” contest and they chose my suggestion.

Thanks Maurice and Nigel!

Cover Reveal!

Coming Soon - the anticipated sequel to Michael Pierce's PROVEX City.

SUSY Asylum
The Lorne Family Vault, Book 2
by Michael Pierce

In SUSY Asylum, there is no release. There is no escape. No hope. In SUSY Asylum, the patients come face-to-face with their mirrors, locked away with the other halves of themselves who are thirsty for more than blood. Or so says Commodore Chaos.

Oliver and Desiree are introduced to the writings of the mysterious blogger, Commodore Chaos, when they return to Provex City to indulge in what the sublime city has to offer. The blogger claims the Lornes are collecting people venturing between the higher planes of awareness and locking them away in their mythical asylum. But are these legitimate concerns for inter-plane travelers or just the ramblings of an anonymous conspiracy blogger?

Oliver looks to the city as his only connection to his father while Desiree looks to the city as an escape from the torment of losing her best friend—again. Provex City is a wonder of beautiful treasures, entrancing them to continue returning. But behind the beauty, wolves have continued hunting Oliver, a boy who is still mostly unaware of his importance in the rebellion.

Oliver’s belief is waning. Desiree will not always be by his side. Mr. Gordon will not always come to his aid. Oliver finds himself alone, forced to confront his biggest fears, fight his inner demons, and face the very cold reality that no one is coming to save him.

Welcome to SUSY Asylum.

Cover Art by Sketcher Girl Studios and the awesome Vic Caswell!

Now Available!

Ever wondered how a five-year-old girl perceives the world? Then you definitely need to get your hands on THE BOOK, a novella by Jessica Bell.

"Jessica Bell’s surprising risks with language capture a child’s clear vision in a world of adult heartbreak. Indelible. Courageous." ~Thaisa Frank, author of Heidegger's Glasses and Enchantment

This book is not The Book. The Book is in this book. And The Book in this book is both the goodie and the baddie.

Bonnie is five. She wants to bury The Book because it is a demon that should go to hell. Penny, Bonnie’s mother, does bury The Book, but every day she digs it up and writes in it. John, Bonnie’s father, doesn’t live with them anymore. But he still likes to write in it from time to time. Ted, Bonnie’s stepfather, would like to write in The Book, but Penny won’t allow it.

To Bonnie, The Book is sadness.
To Penny, The Book is liberation.
To John, The Book is forgiveness.
To Ted, The Book is envy.
But The Book in this book isn’t what it seems at all.

If there was one thing in this world you wished you could hold in your hand, what would it be? The world bets it would be The Book.

Available at all major retailers in e-book and paperback, including Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Alien Movie Trivia Answers

1 – Yes, she knows it’s a multi-pass! The Fifth Element
2 – Look, I have one job on this lousy ship. It’s stupid, but I’m going to do it, okay? Galaxy Quest
3 – What the hell are you? Predator
4 – Somebody in this camp ain’t what he appears to be. Right now that may be one or two of us. By spring, it could be all of us. The Thing (1982)
5 – I hope you’re not going to take your skin off, because I really like skin on a woman. Cocoon

The Wednesday Movie Quote

Every Wednesday will be Movie Quote Day for a certain genre. You can post on your own blog or just leave your favorite quote here.

Today it’s futuristic science fiction.

My favorite:

From Blade Runner – “I've seen things you people wouldn't believe. Attack ships on fire off the shoulder of Orion. I watched C-beams glitter in the dark near the Tannhauser gate. All those moments will be lost in time... like tears in rain... Time to die.”

What’s your favorite? Next week – light fantasy.

Excited about Michael's new book? How about Jessica's? Did you get the trivia right? (A couple of you got all of the answers!) And what is your favorite science fiction movie quote?

Don't forget to visit Misha Gericke to vote!

Surprise! Ninja News, Special Book Announcement and Reveal, Christmas Music and Movies, and the Choose Your Own Apocalypse Blogfest!

Surprise!!! Bet you didn’t expect one more post this year – we Ninjas are sneaky that way. But with one of my best blogger buddies hosting his very first blogfest today, there was no way I was going to let him down. You the man, Chuck! Besides, we have some great news, book announcements, and silly Christmas music and movies to cover.

Ninja News

Roland Yeomans has been writing a series of tips for selling eBooks and Wednesday’s was really good. (And thank you for mentioning me, Roland – I was really surprised!) There are many other posts this week covering this topic, so be sure to check them out.

The Geek Twins, Maurice and Nigel, are hosting their first blogfest – My Favorite Martian! On January 14, 2013, post about your favorite alien – see their site to sign up.

If you’ve been around a while, you may remember Musings of a Palindrone. Well, she is back and has a new blog called The Write Mood. Please welcome the awesome Hannah Kincade back to the blogging world!

Special Book Announcement!

Description: After receiving an ancient tribal journal from her grandfather, Jenny is sent on a mission of discovery in an attempt to unravel clues to her family's monster hunting past. The journey becomes more than academic when she is asked to confront a coven of dangerous witches who plan to cast an insidious spell on the plains of West Texas. 

Witch's Nocturne is the second of the Moonsongs Books, a series of New Adult, paranormal-horror-action novelettes--with a Texas twist--by author E.J. Wesley. 

Witch's Nocturne is available now:

Amazon     Smashwords (ePub & PDF)

Blood Fugue, Moonsongs Book 1, is also available:

Amazon (Free to borrow for Amazon Prime members.)

(Note: These stories contain some language and content better suited for mature readers.)

Cover Reveal!

13th Floor series: 1302 - The Alpha by Christine Rains


You’ve probably seen her around the blogging world this week, touring for the first book, The Marquis. The second book in the series, The Alpha, comes out in January.


And look for Christine to visit the Ninja Army next May.

Christmas Music and Movies

With everyone posting their favorites, thought I’d have some fun with this!

There are some really great classics out there, but when it comes down to it, nothing beats A Christmas Story. Even though it’s set in the late 40’s, most of us can relate on some level with Ralphie’s life. (Although hopefully none of us got a bunny suit for Christmas.)

For music, I like the traditional songs with a contemporary twist, such as the spin TSO puts on the music. But for dumb fun, you can’t beat the Twelve Days of Christmas – Bob and Doug McKenzie style! I can’t hear the original version without thinking about French toast and beer. (And of course, the awesome Geddy Lee of Rush sang on that album on the song “Take Off,” so I’m a little biased.)

Choose Your Own Apocalypse Blogfest

Hosted by Chuck at Apocalypse Now and Shannon at The Warrior Muse.

This is how I see it going down…

(Especially since you all believe I have a cloning machine.)

The Ninja clones were lonely, so I decided to clone Kate Beckinsale. Cloning takes time, and the Ninja clones were growing impatient. So I turned the dial to eleven to speed up the process.

All of a sudden, Kates were shooting out everywhere! I couldn’t even get to the plug and had to make a run for it. It wasn’t long before they covered everything, slowly smothering the land in a layer of Kates. We were all doomed.

Was I prepared to be smothered by a million Kate Beckinsales?

No, but what a way to go!

Now I’m done for the year! See you on January 2 for the first IWSG of 2013.

Been keeping up with Roland’s tips? Signed up for the Martian Blogfest? Picking up EJ’s books or reading Christine’s? What’s your favorite Christmas song or movie? And how would YOUR apocalypse go down?

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 

"For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord." - Luke 2:11

Huntsman Movie Review, Ninja News, Book Releases, Awards, and Visiting the Geek Twins

Maurice asked me to be a guest at The Geek Twins ages ago – and we finally made it happen! Want to know who I think are the smartest and sexiest women in science fiction and why? Come on, you know you do! Then jump over and visit The Geek Twins, Maurice and Nigel, when you’re done here.

Movie Review

Snow White and the Huntsman
Definitely not the sweet Disney version! This movie had an uneven pace. Certain scenes were well executed and visually stunning, like the faerie forest, while others dragged or seemed odd. I think in the hands of a better director this film would’ve been a major contender. The beginning was slow although it picked up once the dwarves appeared. Stewart did all right although the girl can’t smile to save her life. Ultimately, it was Chris Hemsworth who carried the movie. If not for him, it would’ve had no heart or soul.
Certainly not a bad film but overall a bit disappointing. Full potential not realized.

Ninja News

Anna Smith’s book, Alphabet Wishes, is now available – congratulations, Anna!

Allison at Geek Banter is holding a Hundred Followers giveaway and you could win one of several Terry Brooks novels. Now that is a cool prize. Way to go, Allison!

RaShelle Workman unveiled the cover art for her new book series, Blood and Snow. Looks awesome, RaShelle – you rock!

And my BuNoWriMo progress is around 5000 words so far!

June 5 Book Releases

The Azalea Assault by Alyse Carlson (aka Hart Johnson) Confessions of a Watery Tart
This is Hart’s FIRST book release and I couldn’t be happier for her.
She will be amusing the Ninja Army during her blog tour on June 18.

Quilt or Innocence by Elizabeth Craig at Mystery Writing is Murder
Another great cozy mystery from Elizabeth, founder of the Writers Knowledge Database.

These two ladies have teamed up for the Crazy Cozy Blogfest on June 5. Blog about the craziest idea you have for a cozy mystery. Make it entertaining and humorous. Winner receives signed books from both Hart and Elizabeth. For details, go HERE

Surrender by Elana Johnson
The follow up to her debut novel, Possession!
Elana will be entertaining the Ninja Army on her blog tour June 25.

She is also hosting a contest June 11-15 – the Never Surrender Blogfest. All participants get a swag package and three winners get a Barnes and Noble gift Card. To sign up, visit her BLOG

Awards

I’ve received many awards, including a couple new ones, and been tagged in a blog hop. In the interest of time, I shall do what I do best – be brief!

I received the Fabulous Blog Ribbon from the energetic Cassie Mae.

Name five of your most fabulous moments; five things you love; five things you hate.

One answer for each – Accepting Jesus, my wife, mowing my lawn
Passing this on to the happiest blogger I know, Morgan Shamy.

Napper Blogger Award from the sweet and caring Kela
Name something you do to take time for YOU – Easy – play my guitar.
Passing this on to Laura Pauling who probably needs a nap after her blog tour.

Vicki at Page After Page tagged me with the Be Inspired Blog Hop. Thank you Vicki – I will save that one for another day.

Anyone else see Snow White and the Huntsman? Finally watch Hatfield and McCoys? (Surprised so many of you recorded it!) Participating in either Hart and Elizabeth’s or Elana’s book release blog hop/contests? Been awarded lately? And if you are participating in BuNoWriMo or Camp NaNo, are you on track with your writing?Don't forget the next posting for the Insecure Writer's Support Group is this Wednesday!

No, go visit The Geek Twins!

KNOWLEDGEABLE - 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.

KNOWLEDGEABLE

Mooderino at Moody Writing
I read a lot of writing tips online, but no one beats Moody. Her posts are precise and easy to understand. She is a sheer writing genius! If you are a writer, you need to be following the very generous Moody.

Lydia Kang at The World is My Oyster
Lydia is sharp in so many ways. In addition to being a soon-to-be-published author, she is a doctor. Yes, a real MD! Her “Medical Mondays” cover all sorts of topics, giving writers ammunition for killing or harming their characters. Don’t let that scare you though – Lydia is just a sweetheart.

Maurice at The Geek Twins
Maurice (and his brother) run a sharp science fiction site. They are on top of the latest stories, giving readers things they might not find elsewhere. The focus is movies, but you will find all sorts of geeky fun on their site. Maurice recently opened up The Geek Twins to guest posts and I was honored to receive the first invite. Sadly, due to my crazy schedule, that won’t happen until June. Until then, for all your science fiction and geek news and updates, check out The Geek Twins.

Agent Pendergast and Sherlock Holmes
Preston and Child’s beloved character of Agent Pendergast of the FBI is most certainly based on the Arthur Conan Doyle's character, Sherlock Holmes. Both have an amazing wealth of knowledge at their disposal and an eidetic memory. And once the game is afoot, they always solve the case.

NINJA NEWS

Charity Bradford secured a publisher - Sendek: The Magic Wakes will be a book soon. Congratulations, Chairty! And here you were so worried about sending out queries…

Facebook just spent one BILLION dollars to acquire the site Instagram. And no one in the world knows why…

And don’t forget the First Loves Blogfest on May 14 – First loves of movies, music, books, and person.

Following Moody, Lydia, and Maurice? Fan of Preston and Child or Sherlock Holmes? Know why on earth Facebook would spend a billion dollars on a tiny site with a free app that converts nice, clean photos into faded Polaroids? Who would you classify as knowledgeable?

The Long Weekend News...

Lots of cool stuff happening! And Thanksgiving for my American friends. Food, family, and football – the essentials to a comatose day of overindulgence. 

All nominations for The 411 Movie Awards must be in by November 28! I’ve been nominated for Best Science Fiction Blog and Best Blog Post (for the Worst Movies Ever Blogfest.) But, it’s only the top five nominated blogs who go on to the voting stage. No groveling, but I would be really thankful if you clicked over and nominated me. 

And don’t forget these awesome sites, also in the running for an award or two:  

Cinemarvellous! GOLD! Nominate George’s site for the Gold Award and Best Design! 

iZombie! 

Melissa’s Imaginarium  

The Geek Twins 

DL at Cruising Altitude, along with several co-hosts, are holding a Déjà vu Blogfest. 

“On December 16, re-post your favorite blog offering or one that never received the exposure it should have.” 

I already know which post I’ll select – do you? 

This is also the weekend for three family-friendly movie releases. I’m not ashamed to say I will be seeing the Muppet movie. It’s part of my childhood. A part I’m not letting go of just yet! No laughing – I’ll have to sic Animal on you. 

Arthur Christmas also intrigues just because it’s from Aardman Animations. (The people who created Flushed Away, Wallace and Gromit, and Chicken Run.) Ladies, you can swoon over James McAvoy’s voice – he’s Arthur! 

And since it’s Thanksgiving weekend, here’s my short list of things for which I am grateful: 

My wife 

My relationship with Jesus 

My job 

My home 

My friends, including all of you

The case of Hot Tamales I’ve requested from Santa for Christmas 

(And a new guitar would be cool as well!) 

Your turn – what are you grateful for? 

Don’t forget The 411 Movie Awards nominations. 

And the Déjà vu Blogfest. 

And Muppets! 

Don’t make this Ninja go all Animal on you…(Bet some of you would like that, wouldn't you?)