tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41390913760447439042024-03-14T05:43:51.145-05:00Musings of an ElfThoughts and Muses of a Wannabe ElfChristine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.comBlogger379125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-34518549197713377312019-03-30T20:11:00.000-05:002019-03-30T20:11:08.348-05:00Musings of an Elf Has Moved to ChristineSmithAuthor.com<font size="4">
<p><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fEJ-4fSe6x56BZkUFHym-czKSwlcwUFywHQP20pwYSPt3YK2qJrcTurLrkaYGgm_6MssjaAUtt5NZ8gbCpjV1130Jan3aFB-8N1xSAs_D5TEnr2y2sahdsxl4AWW-rayseypuSt5Nd_kTtXW3GBJV6DonSmT-lmEZhsARqv5NVlD-NWfHZeVSxgywRQxLebL3aV5yIG3y4JOsBS_mjzSKDfm_4MbmT2mFtK1MQqu6QCArpLKYCTZh7oZx1L-l_aQmdRiv3VbpEfhtUPQlp6gtK9E0BNlRW9hsRdgbyWNjeXTDxkVM9-apGjsOiACdq1fup64bGZOcEJjhcsUiCEMree_8CtGBB_sSgPpM9DafdyqsQM-Z0D2bxG-Qw31ZtYdVDlyjDRwXlrOsr6MYAyzyqy0mRt66mN30vLzuZAA2bQZwf8O_e2IKeOLn4e8WF7anUxy3hcN-VjdcDW7xgiOvrFSMCV-El2YoI3qKro5q5-hzo0Z0gfmprIr4MBlQFmAx-mTKOsOpKQziLtEgzC_E-akEPtu1tWDQdhuHceVbavcP1e2vGt3wrjy9pQmSrO4h3JnZ0nCUrh4X_5Ass_hG9B6PTEpYr01NhjDOeGVzRch6XC86iCfsWVuNhAZm6mZI6ReRAHBzvCQpqc53pWOpZte9or9-ax2pbA1m978tCxoEUv4-fg0nTqG-2FzpwOpLJDtQfpzeXflsIaX3uDoh07r=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>It has happened! I’ve officially switched over to Wordpress. *TRUMPETS AND FANFARE*</p>
<p align="justify"><br>You can now find me over at…</p>
<p align="center"><br><a href="https://christinesmithauthor.com/" target="_blank"><font size="7">ChristineSmithAuthor.com</font></a></p>
<p align="justify"><br>And I may be A LITTLE EXCITED. Can’t wait to see you over there!</font></p>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-79778645521170279822019-03-25T09:31:00.000-05:002019-03-25T09:31:04.717-05:00Call for Fairy Tale Central Blog Tour Sign-ups<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/L-tyk054MAN3x9Sc5trRQAJpSBkschOxOA1lovIUzscvy6xcmFPR9KtfGY7IriWXWak8KtHE9ekXWhlOfxE1VhazXnhwFQi3BbCDcKBZJ-jpaLy8G0hz0Ld8Og-yy0i9cQbJfYztOq13sWK0Ac7QTSMKxkris9XiJHb7TAJXNsvmcLmH0oxKSVSTmN2eqMRn_buJ6OxE1o49d8hER-Myawp6ndMrzpUCNOzYSdiFd9mqsx1w4xoS8XQqSAG26qC_WMRn-nubDyCiVBpOHqcdgPI1LhBfN9SpnIZAeQI6dEvCPW8C3fnRoOWymPQbDN2th3w2Z9JE0x3miOXTG_M8PKJut8dVeH7cy5bGgQlwaNalJVmc6WNBb1ummPjOdrbyVe2bKWpjRwjdaQVENQzvWbc0O6ooW-QId3Vzg8bQsv6jO1Qg1x-k4pNvfDmn6-FzUSdpzM0FyHV5D0J8h9xFxEVV-O_oFOwDAGM9NV4Qk9qfR7AjuoCpOLtvoQCrGN8YIl9YaBdhQBWesheLtkAbiagI3F-l0f2YaZRstDA5ZT-Fz_IF8F_tFv62bfJMNGVAE_X_dHIjSPFcvUcYkBWRDaFIuLQm96TTI4iEbzlDaue84CQC4Ai7G-wmgpBSRQX2_2aPgBCuRmAzMBxpYOX1PP6OldKKE0mecL5WL00G_MgMAs-lhR8OYd7Aiuh0oWOI47Nl7XRqSkkXGRU8v7WJoRH4=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>Oh, hi there! It’s been a while. Last time you guys heard from me I announced I was taking a hiatus to do a huge move of my blog over to Wordpress, and next time I posted everything would be different. You may have noticed things are…not different.</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Did I fail? NOPE. <strong>My big blog move is in fact underway!</strong> *confetti* It’s taking longer than I thought though. But, at the same time, it’s going waaay better than I feared. Like, way better. Turns out importing a Blogspot blog to Wordpress isn’t <em>too</em> big of a deal. But since I’m redesigning things AND learning a completely new platform, it’s taking time. But NEVER FEAR.<strong> I am aaaalmost ready to launch it.</strong> And I CANNOT WAIT. I think you guys are going to like the change. *grins*</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But ANYWAYS. That’s not why I’m appearing out of the woodwork today. No, no. <strong>Today I’m here to discuss that <em>other</em> huge project I’ve been working on that I also announced in my </strong><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2019/03/hiatus-notice-fairy-tale-site.html" target="_blank"><strong>last post</strong></a><strong>. Remember the big fairy tale website </strong><a href="http://thesplendorfalls.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Arielle</strong></a><strong>, <a href="http://faithwhitewrites.com/" target="_blank">Faith</a></strong><strong>, and I have been teasing about all over social media? Yeah. IT’S COMING.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>NEXT. WEEK.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dcKTO-9HSOk_Q731twRfxTuigoc1k-XrrBaDlp9qCeiH3MyMfsbFVrp3LKGN5UZa3rbksgCb_vO2CrzVebbuLGhAfaPAOU4dQI6rvFkiwRvACsR1T4O4GZX-Vg1-oHyT3uLDFgoERo61abqv_youZgCHssg6McgdSI72ybuqanO6wSx0rWr2ak9kX0EpFbIfoopPaDHKO63vNtOErPKdhRvkqQDL62AiJiqR8RRWFhBXzPhYf-5mks8AVw-erAnPcIEz6v9pksp0-ccpVJb_rNYJhkkejkcmlP-ylstj0xdIBvFRdca6XT9LRwzoLWQ61_axlkzt-PYzWz146BV7js433yf8zFTTFte-YWjjePXS37sJjZNiwJvzpFBvS6KTPu4qF-xhVI45l4T-k6dAgYDvPOhkzB6BCFDgZuaRMl-SQYSSjwSxQ6M-nV1CvC1APP6IB-xMt0qpXDUj6EZ7jx-04KJMVXuTQ9TUG_G3RZTYwhZosOhRFRtoGh4jbggEdiW9WD15HGduv1VSPY2zE_lcJwPtSBp9FoIjGYkBsQDjUpPS6QC8Cf0nc3sVKP7tp-qd9_CkDu7rKvpMsnlyUpNyiTs-dbhcvx0ZDs0i1x0JIAUBQvin5kZHrJPUlpIOTUMVAAKmfa13Qg-fx4BAQspxauQlOk5jqKtxERYltoAhn9nr-VZD5poTwsI-d-cFzmJkFSv-ETWoAAiA9hcRFwFu=s915-no" width="500" height="500"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>*shrieks in excitement forever* <font size="2">(And no, this is not an April Fool’s joke. I promise. The start of April was just a convenient time for us to launch. Lol.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>We are so excited, guys. SO EXCITED. This is going to be <em>such</em> a fun place to engage with fellow fairy tale lovers. With that said, <strong>we want to make sure all the epic fairy tale enthusiast out there know about this new space. </strong>Which is where we need YOUR help.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>For the FIRST WEEK OF APRIL, we’re going to be holding a blog tour in order to get the word out. </strong>Soooo if you’re as excited as we are, we’d be <em>thrilled</em> for you to join us.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I know this is pretty last minute, so we’re making it simple and easy for everyone involved. <strong>If you’d like to join the blog tour, all you have to do is fill in the Google form below, then, either next Thursday or Friday <font size="3">(March 28th and 29th)</font>, I’m going to send out a prewritten post to you about the site, which means all you have to do is copy, paste, and post it on whichever day of the week you choose in the form.</strong> EASY PEASY. Although, IF you want to write your own post and not use my prewritten one, that’s awesome! But we know life is CRAZY and sometimes time doesn’t permit, so we wanted to make it quick and simple for all you awesome peeps.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Also, if you don’t have a blog and/or time to do a spotlight post, we’d be THRILLED if you want to spread the word via social media.</strong> Word of mouth is the best! Or if you want to join the blog tour AND share on your social media sites, we will love you all forever and ever. <font size="3">(JK. I already love you guys to eternity, but I can at least offer virtual cookies??)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="3"><br></font>We’ve already started launching social media sites for Fairy Tale Central (FTC), so if you want to give them a follow and share the news about the launch now <font size="3">(or during the first week of April once the site is for reals live)</font> you can find us on <a href="https://twitter.com/FairyTale_C" target="_blank">TWITTER</a> and <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/thefairytalecentral/" target="_blank">PINTEREST</a>, and we should have some more places up and going soon. I’ll share more details in the email I send to everyone who signs up for the tour!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>And if you have <em>any</em> questions whatsoever (about the blog tour, the FTC, social media, ANYTHING), don’t hesitate to toss me an email <font size="3">(you can find an email icon under my profile pic at the top of the sidebar)</font> or ask in the comments.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>ALL RIGHT. Enough of my babbling. Here’s the Google form for the blog tour sign-ups. WOOT, WOOT!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VAFCML3pGlmKo1Z7CebgatCjpI9KkUOcA1SgTnP5fFI7-ShsdR7-EprIGv4yI571ElZAMJAQ8h4hlfJzoS4Ef3H0dGNtnD2l407zwNVZV3_yPj_BPXOMiuqPebdcTl85bQ74OtAMgT04Qw8Ch3k-0El-7LweuN4zLLG3856u2Tlh05O--M0O_f-mBd8ZZOU9KAkSuDu4ZYdZz4ChL3ntbncCWipq6PNx0oZ3cCRHSieVDU4V0nM7jHdwLtNCTCoBF1BQ2b9N0CV2JCEoEms-6FbHbR6eokzo3wIGn2YrhCzS69gxftuNVNx2lzZBfNKajoqglwTaBCfmdYz5k6uGYB7NO4lMCBj0hictzOCWBSbEbOYVsTdmouHgC_oi4MiYhzdBX8Xy5m_HhYg_Zj1PIZHJ1CHE0ANV_KeXfW-i__zxHWQFd8QeAKQcPnw0ZLilXK3yf5_9UpX2QxW_jluQX3u9lwggc3GnkExMYKZQoC_4f0I82rmF9jF78izzwE5EqCLZccopfATY5TOZwVcS2FEqvQFs3uwsuuKxvYsRa-_xCZcxHKPYAhX9np4mKLZDLs5-9Vz2OI3XQX78ifBPVCHMpur7NecD3oHlMQDk1POjnYpDmrnuNb6yeQ9TkSvmuepZbwOJwGSMzTKrc5B1dHKwdo9qi38qOvNlZdnYy0J-Gnr9L7EmXw_YLrFSsxKu8Lk9I1AZSJHH4ow7poVtDYwn=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">BLOG TOUR SIGN-UP FORM</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><iframe src="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdy10jkAVNkKWg3tKaHlbYYwFdIyHFfQKZMP7kwEe6kj6Y2YQ/viewform?embedded=true" width="640" height="550" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0">Loading...</iframe></p>
<p align="justify"><br>If the form isn’t showing up for whatever reason, try <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdy10jkAVNkKWg3tKaHlbYYwFdIyHFfQKZMP7kwEe6kj6Y2YQ/viewform?usp=sf_link" target="_blank">THIS LINK</a>.</p>
<p align="justify"><strong><br>Our eternal thanks for joining in the enthusiasm!</strong> We are going to have sooo much fun!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/scI4S29QXzKDDfta29sfelRzWiH780fzGlXtI94gK6t-7K1CL8YBZxncalXFVSwZgjbA75L64aFu1KRAxMZRAFX4HDKydouSu5xsWONSjujWcs6CICJgHx3_WvQ5mVQPJew_6VbHyDfKAdfBt2E781Roq38eSRD24l4BkyG1VqhIUO03zT3dQxZWNgXAkK5YeTsQMsYLr2NrVuIdSysxzABX08uROmJHVbKGjD7FQ2oAktXg8F_mIBM05qxkN0JhDZDfzi1vPn6lam30gH7JeTXnqq2v9F4zKP1Jfno6CQqquSDQGNQ9UriEM6a0CUbR4vilYYLCvuPQQgs1hnxODeb-_K8HgASiqc4jvQMo8gEEooJLP5N08ueX1REauN_l4zzJi4KbBYzzbCtJryRoF5NUznBM-rbKzYMx8ylTx12cvnWtaePkGvfRcpaZz2MHCox17zblXvyJV__JIwEJJINzbdD69cRw6JCOXJ7S-MTbhk0AYlEREp9kKuRnn0vR0GzNoCPZlz9b0WjEJAZY9d8tZH96FXvtVPz89wwqTEgBr8Z8JX1h6PpDpEnCUj260rEjeGtqO9XJw-hpudz9QC8QtoAYDs6yU1wUOzjTZtgSfjtce2Meloy677es4OQZ9ek1YonWFyH5mtQozk3q2Rfajdj0tRjra3fF-iivdml4_0afUERKfbSjVMaR3PDrREzk5jPQ1Nmg_XoiqEoKlb-b=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Alsooo stay tuned. <strong>Because I will very, very soon be announcing here the launch of my new personal blog, with a link to the new place so you can all find me.</strong> I’M EXCITED.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-cqcUYAXODEhA-b8y4-Wg5Lsnlg9p2ijDyq_CaJw8h3MrnOhcXuHNZgQg1AJTo-sVvDo5iqS2kFvrpdkkPg87ylZA8UWP5kK2toII33AK_Hfx9QcEKWvK3oDmv6x1SQNCDCrMLwm2vgy-_4QvXmr4K7DM7BLzKNGZ1tGdEw2fFdcEG0NgL8eVLhFngafhzsqOaY0TSfQqUkWTbetNFOSBvnifPcZQ4YmhwOnn6kf6dn2WASCoRy2J8XjTkRHxKs00Nzb617K6YQGS6hTYzAPQFyms2Dwc_oKJLv3PpxWaUE0Dug-lUiUqdB2BZwxWfR-Gi9J7Df8_0ZSieUioLAHU6dd3g1L1BGUUs3BpJMZP3IT_WJN8clwY2eNu32nvLd_RqkbJfsAGFXipzBpbzEnthZwZ1cIkEYpSAGbJN4h4Y9-bioyFM4GBku67L7HTLkXAWqNAOkDfS-Z6rURpjtFT8qNQ5RhJQmasW9f9PHT6rLqC-ZEjWC4Ax1Mypv7xAiM-JKDaF0eT5ssbF3m2wgNvmcr70Tl3a76JGp4IBMvmgJurit2VnkWLmmI8lM8rTeiyzBu_VZVlvDtZr1K-M9ruhBb4DWjKWFAygo7wrK8vMcwqndkJTVGstp-jo5Vzht2143uXm80nDdyzKXdVCg6xzbYTFPKnZ6bgWAmjBrDnD9ZlPjRKlgjDakHExEWkha702VFtTURBWgB3VTyh73WruEk=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">Who’s pumped about the FTC? BECAUSE I AM. SO SO PUMPED. <font size="4">(I know I’m so subtle about it though.) </font>Also, how’s everyone doing? It feels like it’s been aaages since I’ve talked to you guys. I’VE MISSED YOU ALL. </font><font size="4">(Never fear, I’ll be back to blogging regularly <em>very</em> soon!)</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-15236613480273873402019-03-04T09:55:00.000-06:002019-03-04T09:55:27.948-06:00Hiatus Notice + Fairy Tale Site Announcement<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9SODOz3uAS00OVo1jEOEEh1kfaNEZTKMsaDAvN2zv_io3QjBuJYVLlGKEKd8O6QjbVXbg2X5PCwsqIrN5TZDze3cvEPZooSexM5F6wBs7yxhektfKvyjGv4xzzHxrwHrpv9mLabffT84BzRCbqd7KxOLp4tvwOpbFOhy3mWlSL4OYq1QssoyELvQhK4cCjXkNO-uqGQlBYYCnGDx33kbt_1zazmEkEsZma2pnqjyldMQv906pM4cYXNYVGJT5OLxMKKgTL7fjxcmoGgPj-nF6QbVk03nI_zid84C8begFxpCR23T5ti8s3_HDK-EGgmV4EJwvSIVAfgtlMXnyNPj7U8n80w61rZPIc8FSseouriMOs84EhHBSCkakw0AM72ZdsFgHFzcWPFieMq6AnBve-8gU7p0bKiZi12o7e_x_t9D8xaZ2Pzq-HobCYqI05Khf2LMZi68PweIa1Zd3D8foznf7oNB1a_h4zt6cGxNq1y2Qhj_Pn777fDeFvXn87TqX-eB4X-aADFj8gXMzCBmk5KBxjN30H6rpvvS3w_xQjf8Gadad81Vm5dKYMdPLMaIvWaZerrraRorP1Afi_7kr8a7DJxoMJxmiYLU8S7d_WJ-JRUoC4DtvYW53dtehvWhAgzyzCgamuofQPjImzZOcGhP9u_OT0efKXtmk0UT8e_OsDZljQLxdoTQSKvP0K8aUYTULRDFVxdUeA-WiAx69m3X=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>Happy March! Am I the only one in complete and utter denial that it’s actually <em>March?</em> How? What? Why? I’m pretty sure February was 3 days long. Buuut March is one of my favorite months! The weather is beautiful, there tends to be a bunch of good movies releasing in theaters during March</strong><font size="4"> (am I the only one who’s noticed this trend?)</font><strong>, and there’s just something exciting about the beautiful Spring-like month. I just can’t believe it’s HERE.</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Because, see, back when I was making my New Year’s Goals at the beginning of January, I had decided to try to accomplish a certain one or two of those goals in March. It seemed feasible. After all, back then March seemed faraway. I had pleeenty of time to prepare myself, right?</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Ahahahahaha!!! How delusional Past Christine was. You’d think I’d learn, but we all know <em>that</em> will never happen.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><font size="2"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OBN-WDZ6jgps--QedMJ8CI24-Q9Su5JbsgoY41x-X_B3Ojil3tN-ibbH58N5WcGTNtsgUMaUbUxKQJ2AUpITVmsleqc6ZYPpYddcpxoTY6tvBW2vuKi06RTVUq4TF20Dtwu8iyQBpLW5Rr_bPS-4hCuNLP4Xg8tcsy-1Z8DGDeTH4n6lUe4lq26q_KXytxfqRMtViZlv87LiDGPkMrUjqQfiMwV52DN1mEGX18MSypObrXPPRAD8oduyna3GJoYwdCPLl8AkfC5zOgvGudRxEvHJIBgCr0yybihz3mlTEM1FscSb1KThaCYs1ouXVBGfBu53-VoRbYoLrRbPId3pK9dMEHS2HVCzpXlDF9yNzt63x2ZrMQp3k2Jhk1Exh-Op1Tmmqv8I2_KLL2phJAEphpYyYp_pwJMzXwXR-eDIEEP1e_CQQSv5EO9q4S_aAxOop_mVlODmbS3yg8MMNRHu9UnK0k5qsA5EHTQJSsxe7qYIa3BYApZ6LSQ_sUehR0kdO6GSfaT1Y5RjJnK5pzoV8AB9uk4AFH-yrGeYIALHUtEa3RwRL_dELWUz70xcy6Jfh1ziNz7H0eGOIpPmKZZY1tgG71CjjqVulJMZQe9DbfdGet0E1HOFHwv0Al8dzCG9AQq2ijm0rHgVERcjzBYCo7pVa1_4hFy2SAd7DmytNrCCgq_EvxoudxraQ-e5BaeI8AhDYCZqz7aN3ioPabcLoNex=w400-h215-no" width="370" height="203">Basically me every time the month changes. <br>(No, I am not dramatic, what are you talking about?)</font><br></p>
<p align="justify"><br>So here we are in March, the month I had set high and mighty goals for myself. And…I am not ready. At all.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>The main goal I had for March? Moving my entire blog over to a professional Wordpress hosting site with a completely new and improved design.</strong> Lolololol. That’s not scary <em>at all.</em> <font size="3">(#LIES)</font> My 8th <font size="2">(EIGHT???)</font> blogiversary is this month, and I thought what better way to celebrate than risk exploding my blog and completely derailing everything over to a whole new hosting site and stressing myself out over it? <font size="2">(I really know how to party, amiright?)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Okay, but really, I’ve been wanting to leave blogspot for yeeeeears now. I’ve just never had the nerve to. But the word I chose for this year is BRAVE. So I’m going to be brave and start getting more professional around her. It’s way, <em>way</em> past time.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>SO. So. I’m gonna try to do it. o.o Or at least research it more closely and see what happens<strong>. Even if I <em>don’t</em> switch to Wordpress</strong> <font size="3">(which I probably will)</font> <strong>I’d still like to at least redesign this place so it doesn’t look so…cheap.</strong> I don’t know. My design’s been bugging me lately. It’s high time for something more professional!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Buuut this means I probably need to use that time to actually do the thing instead of continuing to post content. Thus, I’ve spur of the moment decided to go on hiatus for the month of March.</strong> I <em>may</em> still post a thing or two, depending on how things go and if I get inspired. But I may disappear for the whole month only to come back with a brand new blog… Or come back a failure and still be using my old blog. Eheheheh. Let’s hope not! But that’s why I’m announcing this here, the pressure of telling you guys AND going on hiatus is kind of forcing me to FINALLY take the plunge, be brave, and DO THE THING. The thing I’ve been wanting to do for like…5 years now. <font size="2">(Procrastination much?)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>SO LET’S DO IT.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PQc4iOlujKYi90NGYLgj4Z9Tc0iU1lSjpzHeKRJbcoGejIS1iXehjPDmoa7CAtO_bXMHL8TBLtRHJtTyqHDWR_Xvvw2wL99rDwR_v0sU1TQf7k96lEL0f7FAdHDClRMef2R45IDjKYrp9G5Qswk9TmFhj3t4BIreBZ49-nNYbEkY8hAg3N1f_lghk9OBNgZaTbPlrwdZNSDbnIulI7bVCg3iYuNqfP7voRq0X90E9GRhkpjcnaZ7cGtsJ_yIFaJwyxerNMGtxOKPN3E90OXaatCTfMMJ3On4yE143Cz9dyQHpOMibEPeCzbC4w2EI1KcUY1ipui6PchhVXS50ruW9wP90HQ7fGfC2fGxMkZpIm-iBwObcCNcDKfB8ZHeUpPGeQavFw4o70mQ9-sEKiaixopmeKU4d2_r_k9DBjAiKe6bGs2_iDPS3A8fGWKtRfgJObu6XHa9gtMjs1FGBt5hbIlKjMXVqMsGuFPMw3vw3lA4lEXlKa1eERUFcLXPptLaUmjHwbcnMkzLMDgw9u0Tc6gWBLRgkiwUimR-m5rEAoIeR_-9gkc3R17YJRacUJpjfLBBs7vsQyrv-z6xOzt9wht8Dk2-xjWGCBPr_xtQGuOSMeqxHUGynPaGv3PH09-TKqCUdJh4cJmh86wH-4E_r3LKNilsTN0h1TuxBs1ZW3FMkt6e26e2FxLVZKad_-wKE9QB04X3Rw0uVijnZdtf4KTr=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/BVI0GtVCgduYmhCsPPKGH9OjfqqOpwSFAR2WWFLElojygPHz8LdiRGCBQg1yZIViwt4gzJLlFCotGNCgQkRL6npSMiecNX5P6l7mu8vx_LzDjgzhSvETcnC2yCvGxDoHTTjwq83AmJ7ZRJ2NLB9N0VMwlo0RjdwBCg756ZSUn69d0_8upo6cKHdZUEt9NMzxhFIvg3Cp75dcl9EwJ4HO2iuXJgDss0LDX3dHmdQeqG5H43v0cgojyW4rwb0nHo5fdMgVfRhoOnFWzXPbWmyyNnzWUmV6LrXVAHULM6VRLMaWQVkGEgahgCymvzMbSuOIykq6QuO6PcrJ1svhBofAV8VmKKsK5h_Ckk3t73IovYnDviCJRA0MtejT9vd5YzTDelGfM7VJwaiKYb7kG7XgoCKQhe9Xywjz4ukfzm7_0rf3oIeO7_o7Jtk9j4HiRJ5uIgzYN39YpQF_45EuFIWD-p-Wo0-roeb3bxbLCDWCmXao5NJTw37IQ9E4woyQ44DRF_VCq-cVvrA7Cz0_MF76GCgcbZl2hMvN6HtKd27wimWBJTFe-rTXe7ezSZ4GDOshngya26I0WuMJjLhrU5OpHWJRG_95xkcXBTMfT_2ELsgHcOtx6_vb1yBXf29TdBtg0Xtjs8Dyh9OYWvbO-UKJAmh9wEO1BWMgHiT9WYx-El7CZPdrP8jSVHBMJU9M-XbNOqLqCQzXZzJIJyAC0S0-wUqn=w450-h190-no" width="410" height="179"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Changing up my blog is not the only news I have!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>If you follow me on <a href="https://twitter.com/Lauriloth" target="_blank">Twitter</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thebookishchristine/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> <font size="2">(#shamelessplug)</font>, you may have already seen this announcement. But if not, <strong>I have some VERY exciting news that I’ve been waiting on pins and needles to share with you guys.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’m pretty sure you all know my complete and utter love for all things fairy tales. I mean, I’m working endlessly on a Beauty and the Beast retelling and have like 298384 other retelling ideas I hope to write one day. Fairy tales have been a central part of my life since…like…birth. I just love them!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>WELL.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>A few months ago, my fabulous friend <a href="http://thesplendorfalls.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Arielle</a> contacted me saying she was working on something with another fabulous person, <a href="http://justwaytooboss.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Faith</a>, and asked if I wanted to be a part of it. When she told me what “it” was, my answer was something along the lines of “AJKLDKJFLSKJLJSLDKJFLJSD YESSSS!!!” <font size="3">Super professional as always.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Ever since, the three of us have been tirelessly working on putting this thing together, and will continue to be through the month of March.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Introducing…</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="6">A Fairy Tale Site for all our fellow fairy tale fans!</font></strong></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5">This site will include:</font></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify">Lists of retellings</div>
<li>
<div align="justify">Lots of reviews (from fairy tale related books to media and perhaps even of different fairy tale collections themselves!)</div>
<li>
<div align="justify">Essays and posts analyzing fairy tales and their themes (remember my <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2017/04/what-beauty-and-beast-means-to-me.html" target="_blank">Beauty and the Beast</a> and <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2017/08/why-i-believe-cinderella-is-good-heroine.html" target="_blank">Cinderella</a> posts? Yeah, things like that and a whole lot more!)</div>
<li>
<div align="justify">Writing prompts inspired by specific fairy tales</div>
<li>
<div align="justify">Mini galleries of fairy tale art</div>
<li>
<div align="justify">Plus mooooore! We have SO many ideas!</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pFdNFjSBB5E-wpbWlAHoY1gmk0SEMXP_g3qow4AX832q488GrdDU1tNz6JK6sIiVn-DglBMrH_QAUra91zqkPUMyCWmPNHiJPXSL4A6ayIMLS8s7ntYkCm_36qucXF4zExlGBB5XhZmfU1F0QWm_aCscOdQpMuUND0AvASAD3fMjJW0g22qp5RnD4OEZDAU9GRjiBssnKQgmehgmCbnFrCIAWtaQX4PSyLLy8EY64-N-YCVOww8riMwAFgo8Rxth5vHmXEqfqqHo_FLssY5zHIfU9XpRuoG7UMMwfgtGXlCPtf83bUkT8uiwZWLCLLDQf9DthJNBCnk-3PY1z--JfFM1JShtGecBNSvQAJUhRwWV9YPuAcNxtYuoLnRQLd4AY6En8J_P7bFpdwnad4tLEwnevdcydG_lDlL0lcqltzmHEpH2FY84hrchT-kVdt7DePhy0Ww23xY1vU2q-MojAIB7pXkmO4qSPMNV5hLrhdTY-TUVGSDuu_Xgw3ZsKfDG60qqsQ0nbA8Uwday4xZ55ZZLPRozLo66GttAmhXOiZ3cNr_iPIZat6YZVTlTcDFcea3h-uUBrVI2pLQk9QRBMhGwOYloqaOQ3McEhR-olG_0Ju7obePsmQ-woNwvP5BbsKjEPQ8_utAX1Rwu1qg0N73OU0iiJXNWF3W9T2YtJ5fzfKZsVRF5_Fd127s8FVBfcGmE8C_w-mxGxT9QVR8wAUin=w1221-h915-no" width="500" height="376"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>GUYS. I. Am. So. EXCITED!!! I know so many of you love fairy tales just as much as I do, and I think you’re gonna <em>love</em> this place!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>We will be launching in the not-too-distance future, which means March will be slam-packed with putting things together, writing posts for it, and getting ready. Thus another reason I think it’d be wise to take a hiatus.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>But don’t you worry, soon you’ll be getting even <em>more</em> content from me, from my own personal blog and the fairy tale site. IT’S GOING TO BE A BLAST!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So do keep your eyes peeled for more details and the actual launch date coming SOON.</strong> To keep up with the news, you should totally go follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ariellemelodybailey/" target="_blank">Arielle</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/faithwhitewrites/" target="_blank">Faith</a> on Instagram as well, as we’ll probably be sharing lots of news over there.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’M JUST SO EXCITED!!!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PQc4iOlujKYi90NGYLgj4Z9Tc0iU1lSjpzHeKRJbcoGejIS1iXehjPDmoa7CAtO_bXMHL8TBLtRHJtTyqHDWR_Xvvw2wL99rDwR_v0sU1TQf7k96lEL0f7FAdHDClRMef2R45IDjKYrp9G5Qswk9TmFhj3t4BIreBZ49-nNYbEkY8hAg3N1f_lghk9OBNgZaTbPlrwdZNSDbnIulI7bVCg3iYuNqfP7voRq0X90E9GRhkpjcnaZ7cGtsJ_yIFaJwyxerNMGtxOKPN3E90OXaatCTfMMJ3On4yE143Cz9dyQHpOMibEPeCzbC4w2EI1KcUY1ipui6PchhVXS50ruW9wP90HQ7fGfC2fGxMkZpIm-iBwObcCNcDKfB8ZHeUpPGeQavFw4o70mQ9-sEKiaixopmeKU4d2_r_k9DBjAiKe6bGs2_iDPS3A8fGWKtRfgJObu6XHa9gtMjs1FGBt5hbIlKjMXVqMsGuFPMw3vw3lA4lEXlKa1eERUFcLXPptLaUmjHwbcnMkzLMDgw9u0Tc6gWBLRgkiwUimR-m5rEAoIeR_-9gkc3R17YJRacUJpjfLBBs7vsQyrv-z6xOzt9wht8Dk2-xjWGCBPr_xtQGuOSMeqxHUGynPaGv3PH09-TKqCUdJh4cJmh86wH-4E_r3LKNilsTN0h1TuxBs1ZW3FMkt6e26e2FxLVZKad_-wKE9QB04X3Rw0uVijnZdtf4KTr=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I have <em>one</em> more piece of news…</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">I’M OFFICIALLY REGISTERED FOR </font><a href="https://realmmakers.net/" target="_blank"><font size="6">REALM MAKERS 2019</font></a><font size="6">!</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3PNr8dUFmH8i6LqxEAiWjFxiR_hYmyruEUCS74obcj2QedoEB_T-Lb8CuzBuB8tI1TUCejbok2APrxG4481Ag_IhfMpZT5CBzGlODUMSBhdtvwYxo_shvmoZMmRND04uLatRYYZxZ2zJEFv9SC4Kaux45RpPp528pRE7xiMF2594mLudyYThUcB9tR-v6JERZe-lVP5quK3-xNwstmhMTUyazHAXR_wWs9VTdL6Hvag8IA0hYPlgi2EbPHJqnYinyaJF8e_awseFjEpBYgVwO3ZhWHt3XLXHXOC8GAta9b16gp8_4cA4FPHuIH1SsqGTPKd5TtWoFFBG5BnJvgMOGYOKHGhffj8itnt9cuwLk2AwlEa2Kogf6H8emke946czMxDoaDIfFiZ_botgJxNLAInGusrZ4yOrZCKvV3lWVNoObP9AnsBV_aXV3DQ9jGuGsjsiDx5STukjeoP2KZ1n8pl7AbzNDRMKyaHBBT5i3tNVAG0nuIKrBDPkAPs2F_GTD3hI_PKD3HPnZzMBMKvbPDse3etJ1dvv5khXSZwYuPOtYothV7gYfrFJWHibr5dkT0FRaLJNHsz06yntLEr1tOH010Sx0jviV0rfm4ZEQYw4rKxr-VCGLvAkfmP6vDqZEpWR2CUoBGUnPZmFXhOVa6RT-kX_sWOUiYTjfObDmAoadQn8thGQtd7smcnZYfBlWnowPnZS0LLk0PeZQuRlpQy7=w1024-h481-no" width="500" height="237"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’m all signed up as of last week and I CAN’T STOP SQUEALING. I was so hoping to go again this year after my utterly <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/08/realm-makers-2018-recap.html" target="_blank">magical experience last year</a> and IT’S HAPPENING. *SQUEE*</p>
<p align="justify"><br>What does this have to do with my hiatus? Well, it’s just another push to get my blog moved over. I’d love to have my new space all set up before I go to Realm Makers and hand people my business cards with my site’s URL on them, ya know? It will be so nice to have a more professional, clean looking domain to send people over to.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So between my blogiversary being this month, the fairy tale site coming soon, and Realm Makers approaching, March just seems like the logical time to get this done.</strong> Plus like 2983 other things. <font size="2">*nervous laughter* Icandothis Icandothis Icandothis.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xPFED04qxc3HvKrN_VvONxpAtlUygYsroB4r3Z3SPmsmfsLsf7xrqlWbtOXFfTDKHBB0kuKhnMBxxscAFXEFI6kZKY4BQsyne4lRqe8WJFj3kBdyt_T4jRLDEcDETwO5yugUDnYOs7RFTX1CZNnVtEoioGFqTYAc2vd4MUR4N4wkTceGY3nvrVGYwSWZc_8laIi-Ys_XLSGkDB7QiBeP2UePzSos2VVtL5ydys6RKymfpriV3qNzgqFKAOj6ssLVc7SR0CAFw50qqTWdyMFxwTxPYAuRZ49eeyhJGSFwtbnJ_elbX1GjNjgevMArz4B_tEUxyB6QBOKxgniX8wuUcy1IH05CroIFnSh1IN-tyYlR_sdqghxz7tFba2P2V0vcc6CwuTn2dgOcFhT_mKUzEGumR22_o8eejzpyxNomcPI35W8Vc8u8boDhxCl2lo13wNBqoSOUuqqG7DTdgKueswQvcLI_q7zj2aR9G6Nw188tp3dXmR-nuWXns2iRJik9O3yzyA_hG6MOA77SI6POQHytLdMhrEiHqn1pFFVzWfeSC9QtVZELiSvx66b2UwaYYOpB4Fbm-tz5P85HTKNHYmN9BTqfvquRnGef6PxSzMjo_krHfN2TcUHgo1hbXrgxZgR2BbDI9vUn-7CbMuQ2nVIANVPSyPslBrM2mPaqN57y8tObGmehSauutAa7_W8illbW-UutVgzqMvxQ1KShKI_F=w500-h359-no" width="300" height="217"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Thus a hiatus it is!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>If it starts looking funky around here, just know it’s probably because I’m trying to switch and change things over. But never fear, when I come back I <em>should</em> <font size="2">(hopefully)</font> have a nice new space. Plus the fairy tale site is coming soon so ALL the new spaces!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>IT’S GONNA BE AWESOME!!!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hMGE666cJ4wFAfij_zW5r5oa2iLrHWz-ElTq2z1U9LEfpdoUf3Qy1xkqSiWrswJ1KnYV8M4DbLoHMNQkDgrXK7-s_4PdZRjp1Ikh3aa3acz3twQte7GcsR5YvzFH-9koW59uhSevqJ0tU2wELV1wZrTroMq8_ZK1tCeIoTx_zVwZIz_talVhF8Xd9PyWuvp_wzxJ12pZWz8Rcju2WEcdxk3hHLNjgCm4mBcXAiT3uGq4R4RMcKpZhAfD6zj9s5BRHpcB8hp-8_eJOHR7Vfg7Vli769T1Hja6Iq9QbzM5ik4CVvo0Udh9CNmPOHp3kFGlWExZ5wxTgk5YFZl6AJurOFgThG9hjUUqCRyxfzVk74b6qxsxQLBg0Qj7gfnONo38SY81WT7vGjDHmgxvS6DaOzzNpV2BEWDYCL6eJ23o2S_N2PuPsxgJBnOETTLW_6URLYOEow2Ja-7ceuGGxa6bNXMoeMYKYGWEqU1SUw-1aco99TMintyibxE00a2FKFD1Xd1BvsPXAcYdsU2Nchavs2dvtI0n3ZilbG_SJZASdvLZomuZrZc0XVuB_qgsZiKiFUu0EAO_Ao8l73yOsIu4DY4YpS2LbdFijtMoWL8p8Ht2cFalC16W21lMU2Npnvid5IhhX1sF_p4AI63yTSr_zb6_NS6p8OSP9EwdqFqkbh-3i0R6iIE-2fisuAtk-a0lFmcx5iLKaVMcNg1-zgFq0G_d=w1920-h395-no" width="550" height="115"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">Is anyone opposed to me switching my blog over to a new place <font size="4">(I hope not…)</font>? What do you think of this new fairy tale site coming? <font size="4">(I’M A LITTLE EXCITED IF YOU CAN’T TELL.)</font> And who’s making it to Realm Makers this year???</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-67744526861992117362019-02-25T10:17:00.001-06:002019-02-25T10:17:50.954-06:00Fantasy Favorites Tag<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ButOk0SNkx-HTV7-8ALNgAoCOvZKgxTTxM3oAxR24HVgr1I5DbEXhdIKrRTo5x3rtTERXt-lyveOpW2hMytgB7qs6_5sEeR2v8HPIzwAjQ48gg5vCpmgLZ3vszAGxmm5hq6mIHLaWXtR6q3uConVtCJGQDmpPQoehLdFPCc84e9yNdYwV4tAUioNUamTQ6T844rblh8RqNUme-MhoCFcnJiHipZ0fGkfp0CXATgZBIQZ198qmQpjyXM6XWmzjMLpH3JZmH0zqk5E7IQttWmKBsFlWKVbJq1FpHifc-FWmln-40CW-hPsy_NePmaSm3oKwyywECbLKuKDJ_tUu-w0rSWV2mmtis-6pT0PPI8XF0TSJmbZPRbV6_iiJ7fkjQGGyikLBdS2C9XCqUWuX2n6JKlpzioZo7rJIuH4M3hkS12p0Ok7VLJKuz5CHR6CtFPW6E3x8z2hu-3Qlj5E1XZ20g_MgAtmGIZOnoVL0ZphwqRn5ZXB1sew5Yty2JH9diyY7KFLAcnpIMIzxbQQvViHIa3JnZwlyweKIJKzE0q61e3GucWZur_40Z4S236fHau_b-CPCEL0XtJGuiiTXZwZQFrUiab3I2cpDu2WBHD-fI4rd3rz5SMZu-E1WGDVeerrQTUMjLyfu4-8UdcBoplZmmqhqmLHfgy6Dk5DII0svr_18K-jR_VwEchzoJjzJDa17NLhpxAiracu0RQNCz9CvWWF=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>My awesome friend </strong></font><a href="http://jenelleschmidt.com/" target="_blank"><font size="5"><strong>Jenelle</strong></font></a><font size="5"><strong> is hosting “February is Fantasy Month” on her blog and across social media, and it’s just as the name suggests—spending all of February celebrating the greatest genre of all time </strong><font size="4">(not that I’m biased or anything)<strong>.</strong></font><strong> As a part of the fun, Jenelle has created a TAG. Which is what I shall be doing today!</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I honestly can’t believe we’re so close to the end of February. Like HOW??? Can I get a refund? I had about a million and twelve plans for this month, and only got to touch like…a fourth of them. I feel like I’ve been either sick or working all month, and all my plans collapsed. Ah, well. Life happens. And there’s always March!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But hey, February isn’t quite done! And there’s a month worth of fantasy goodness to scroll through if you missed it. <strong>Jenelle put together a whole line of posts from herself and many other participants. The schedule and links are at </strong><a href="http://jenelleschmidt.com/fantasy-month-tour-schedule/" target="_blank"><strong>THIS POST</strong></a><strong> if you want to peruse!</strong> There’s also been a hashtag game over on twitter which I’ve been participating in. I JUST LOVE FANTASY MONTH. So before we must bid it a farewell, let’s do this tag, shall we?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This tag is centered all around fantasy favorites</strong>, which is both terrifying and exciting. On the one hand, I HAVE TO CHOOSE FAVORITES??? On the other hand, I <em>love</em> talking about my favorite things. <font size="3">(Hey, I never claimed to be consistent.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="http://jenelleschmidt.com/fantasy-favorites-blog-tag/" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/g9YkshfZx41WjngSPxSLLM5-H_k8aABZJ2V-f56C7oXupUtOJwcDWqPjuKgbqHe87k7wX-zWebPZuQ0xd51AAHDnqodsD4ZYUrTCc3oQpGop7IB0R6JK_D8eDMxxfqnKq5k2cFaUyANGmiXGONTms4Ut1mJDJKeOEudVWAJ4GHsplx2vi295BZIYj1_yj8fU2U3Enz_AZoBvJt9KO-Cou8atX5pVopWdm8BLRAtqBfClwFWWrtFXphctcJrbI8_udP1aYXd5_sdQ88H6C9DoSJRPcXLorekWtVxAip9sJ5zkhsF6MW8yLiFPGrtwlVNTWt2kI1hYTT54Asfzi5xOble3VmQuhIAXnDxQzU7XG_KunIzbm7hgHOxQsXPz64gm2b44HCcPlFO_O8g7xYggTuoFTFas0lG10NR7WBv8HmBDEthD7YBbe9-WV6yTN3D_vO3qpVFPC_doMIpgWtFeh9lQOlodGmsO3BSJWMJ8ibWcDczlpkbUr35EbSTMlkDnPBXh-H7f4iVqi-Qsng9nqc3RDYCAmwwF5SiI42C4v_X00uyFiBXjUTIJZTu8bO_H1S6-lCIPRu8WfzHVYr41lYS_QGFpHz9Ra53bvPfazM0sVbgP9mYHDKvGKiZFm5f_Wda_tW90inGVJ-1u8j0g8on03YvC3MUVD3MgP9IUSJ3tsdmHv4qzgz8Br-aEJ4A6iymVpnXUJPXgOVLRchHSZ5AD=w560-h315-no" width="500" height="285"></a></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ihFiMwAY-MIBs6LGQSiOEexCjcWgA2v35vlmcEKM8pfndItOwe_NT43kUIboKSM291RGyJMJqPwKilv9GrdikKL13tE_dke8dbIZ0cLUTXVJRAhakOdSmGF3CzXFQAIrtNXEWtU_PYmGwPl4ojQC1eJunZK7jGov6D6Re64yXWJhsRa_PXf7v3SEyQy_R_h2A57abe6GAVRmntI4i_JNsrDpsp5iEcG0tM0ikwIzR_aeHYXH5GntGRt7Xie9HmLlJUOqZS6UaRtrQvIIAbZ6b0VAWv79etzksGCKJbX4zAa_VixlFeEm-9pm4vWTC8v4cWVUf0L6jI_oRJNMYCc7MbfSJycPZWgjijvHrWrisgI36MtOIUMJrZ9fjinV3Nh7YT1xjocjX3StqNKZAdqhz19_8nnf8y2sIWcEjoUI3n_T55tAK5XbXe4uahVDC7eO1diiBODy_yGjsjWGfDV6WlTVHmaqhrydk12mpV0J74f32BG27xL-9zZkwPmsMq-O7QEEjcfw15ibOI2SFasNcsTGsxV4XeYc7d72GhDVLzkqn51EQXZN9CKsy2KMkjrXn7z79nN8V-z4qXX0AxXGtW2BDSopugO-ItV8_05Me6svg2UPFw7lNQr3mBC99ARoz7G0T8LRW1FPB_0CVknzO7Mld-tlGDqg52XyeevPppaS_SzjaXRDHuJwhjWbCIDhAfuQk4k_kRQz3Om_mi8VjVUw=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101">
<p align="center"><font size="7">. . . Rules . . .</font>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><font size="5">Thank the blogger who tagged you. </font><font size="4"><em>(Erm, I totally just stole it from Jenelle’s blog. But she was basically tagging everyone so it wasn’t exactly stealing…? So thank you, Jenelle!)</em></font></div>
<li>
<div align="justify"><font size="5">Include the graphic somewhere in your post. <font size="4"><em>(*points up*)</em></font> </font></div>
<li>
<div align="justify"><font size="5">Answer the questions. </font><font size="4"><em>(Almost there!)</em></font></div>
<li>
<div align="justify"><font size="5">Tag a few blogger friends – and let them know they’ve been tagged! </font><font size="4"><em>(See end of post!)</em></font></div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ihFiMwAY-MIBs6LGQSiOEexCjcWgA2v35vlmcEKM8pfndItOwe_NT43kUIboKSM291RGyJMJqPwKilv9GrdikKL13tE_dke8dbIZ0cLUTXVJRAhakOdSmGF3CzXFQAIrtNXEWtU_PYmGwPl4ojQC1eJunZK7jGov6D6Re64yXWJhsRa_PXf7v3SEyQy_R_h2A57abe6GAVRmntI4i_JNsrDpsp5iEcG0tM0ikwIzR_aeHYXH5GntGRt7Xie9HmLlJUOqZS6UaRtrQvIIAbZ6b0VAWv79etzksGCKJbX4zAa_VixlFeEm-9pm4vWTC8v4cWVUf0L6jI_oRJNMYCc7MbfSJycPZWgjijvHrWrisgI36MtOIUMJrZ9fjinV3Nh7YT1xjocjX3StqNKZAdqhz19_8nnf8y2sIWcEjoUI3n_T55tAK5XbXe4uahVDC7eO1diiBODy_yGjsjWGfDV6WlTVHmaqhrydk12mpV0J74f32BG27xL-9zZkwPmsMq-O7QEEjcfw15ibOI2SFasNcsTGsxV4XeYc7d72GhDVLzkqn51EQXZN9CKsy2KMkjrXn7z79nN8V-z4qXX0AxXGtW2BDSopugO-ItV8_05Me6svg2UPFw7lNQr3mBC99ARoz7G0T8LRW1FPB_0CVknzO7Mld-tlGDqg52XyeevPppaS_SzjaXRDHuJwhjWbCIDhAfuQk4k_kRQz3Om_mi8VjVUw=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><font size="7"><br>. . . THE TAG . . .</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><strong><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></strong></font><font size="7">What is your favorite fantasy book?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="4"><br>You would think this would be agony to decide but NO. Yes, I have a gadrillion favorites, and they’re basically ALL fantasy. <strong>But I think your favorite book is that one you can read over and over and over again and never get tired of it. That tale that never ceases to make you smile. Your happy place. With characters you consider your best friends, and a setting that feels like warmth and hot tea and joy and <em>home.</em></strong></font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>For me that book is, without a doubt…</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">HOWL’S MOVING CASTLE<br></font><font size="5">by Diana Wynne Jones</font></p>
<p align="center"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6U5Ko2Jjg8WkICD02nZ2T9R9KVm_lpMO3e3kuZ5lHnzHEHjAf_wOGwJJLo-knlSXdnpHkZfzCdMSZtWw---Q7RvA3rvZHeyIuJLhlv_3NzyJ7ieX_mkB75TiYZSypSJ76tUxZevt_j2X_01ca0bbuuQ5gyqmPNSTHFS49j3iIeOSRZGq_YZmfBk79vKLCCqhPB7oBNwJQzqwbD2Y5WS2Wb8tg49Ro7H2I4Sm6b3y4X1yByxwgENY61A2Muv3ON1sDog7Wh4w1S3AUdxfmIg-7EuXK03IOWDbX2JBMWhRqeHZRVOiHU0h9H4KPyQuf_ruMcuo8R9RQq8xM0BQvYWwHzW6fslvyq4KsODTdj1QYRkGCN21GOJhYV6megqk8Ti1lfWPuHSwR7tEaHRuQocO29vmvgl4QoWCV14peo4ELiXbV6GpKrfozqVFbzokhRuRNNWip5pupi_did8UpQc6zBrphp8Tfko63j3MpdTfJT1g7R3eiu9XvK2peuurbfXoREcNpYtYnBQouy1oHtIWGdey-EKLUJAZ1xaK1EEBgvU9QUw5Twa0w_luWe1T1t6NllI9dHRQj_syIR6OiZEKEsgUGGF3VOOJipm8IeHrsWHglhHQNU8G0VjSEa16YP_zS69zAum6z-VhXoaj2QuSf1ldEtE5ekmrFtWfoQR3uohdUfySMgWShcNAj3pzeBghdvhxgPwyGB26OfS1a-5oGi4i=w300-h447-no" width="250" height="369"></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><font size="3">*in which everyone takes a collective gasp*<br>*in reality everyone groans, “She’s talking about this book <em>again?</em>”*</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br>Yes, yes I am talking about it again. <strong>But it’s my favorite book, guys! My absolute favorite book of all time.</strong> I could spend forever inside that moving castle with Howl complaining about his hair or some girl, Michael agonizing over magic lessons, Calcifer burning the bacon in a rage, Sophie cleaning and groaning about the spiders and everything else. <strong>It’s hilarious and delightful and whimsical and cozy and just makes me HAPPY.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>But, of course, I have many other favorites as well. If you’re super curious, I have a <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/18596498-christine-smith?shelf=favorites" target="_blank">GoodReads Shelf</a> dedicated to my favorite books of all time. <font size="3">(Though it probably needs updating…)</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">What is your favorite fantasy movie or TV show (or both!)?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>Oooh, let’s do both! Bwahaha.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>Favorite Movie:</strong></font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="7">LORD OF THE RINGS</font></p>
<p align="center"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rWx8EB78oactyYoODZbdx1Pm0LX0GUUsvdvzZDFyJD7qk0vOHVgPFjXEdJp9Lg3F_-9zXeKHDmMBfinBxjMwHBRWvuwJPp3Qrd3L6UlObKn2dQZNOPOV2vjV-4uMAvvBsplaEV6VoVh-oxwyIuTCIfoGxwwfTe8emxlqwMIE6L3kd6MtxVsR5sQmxkNtiAsbDEqpYBL44OPgnsf_slhpwioy3yKdYkzxFzc9EyQ8Cjj-Sc26ulYNeQKKu6AP4e5ZwA_Q3eYCPr6a5A3c-lZb2M9fI5eErfTJ74TIKh7c-S0wYDL4heq8Cr78zpcocW0uwlbPfL5uv5u1OkeZ6QQ8uZgsBmPDTQPohpGka2oFi5y9JR8km72WhdUPoIVFGddl44hBOpEnvPv_4Lv1LcSdMcuVLGGJccSzQ_N_4ZEfsrDArafBuTy3Dd4fevwDcZjKxbaLqzvtuk4pE-C1pSHauecCZod6IntFLbgjW811D2jOcyfQqyjWtrsgO9fzaBJoyKGjqCAuWtFvloYNVnTPwkppQdf69AzBIzeeKOd8FmMZuOajiIlG4sLft9SHAsxnheupU8WQLXL8On9DGam46Jdr5V6T1kX6rxWGIrd5i2OKiUx3mTh-lDEcrPNt872Hctx8-OwUCpNzGlc6jExh8YUFjhVpK1F7DG6MmaAdqQywJ3-s3UFQXPMLF8uIRM7jWB07YqmD8L1uu6Awt-Ufe-PS=w1100-h733-no" width="450" height="301"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="2">(I honestly don’t know why I’m even doing this tag. I doubt a single one of these answers will surprise any of you.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Yes, I have manyyy complaints about the movie<font size="2"> (namely how they made Frodo a whiny, jerk and how they destroyed Faramir’s EPIC character at first *ahem*)</font><font size="4">, but, overall, those movies give me a sense of adventure and <em>longing.</em><strong> I feel both full and empty after I watch them. They fill up my adventurous spirit, but make me long to call Middle-earth my home, to be friends with those amazing characters. Which is probably why I’ve watched the whole trilogy some 283938 times.</strong> UGH. IT’S JUST SO GOOD.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>If I <em>had</em> to choose a favorite between the three it’d prooobably be <em>The Two Towers</em> <font size="3">(you really can’t beat the battle at Helm’s Deep)</font>, but I love so much from each movie.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>My other favorite fantasy movie </strong><font size="3">(and movie in general)</font> <strong>would be </strong><em><strong>Maleficent.</strong> </em>I really should just do a review or something on that movie, because it’s seriously one of the greatest things ever created.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><strong><font size="5">FAVORITE SHOW:</font></strong></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="7">BBC’S Merlin</font></p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/DhBdYhWHy6gd-fpm6TSP33ZzNmJQntUvo41AO5rnIsVF7nWhqBxD_eipdbJlZgZceFOV0UU0ydQ6sHiFovgG1MiaO2KZLFsGGP6AY4D8aVmC6mav8lX9juXD76P-NeodNv_a3Ulj5Hszohj9PtlXFW0BkuHg-78s7x_sKQFBzBr_4_mbX7W84ASmFE7yjb36VRmtqX3GlZH39ZkNkerY7EnzT0s29p6u0OS9p5lBeBBd52pbPX5MpuBUmYWJGDT_wuNbQThZJLFtBTa1LGsapr_kf8kdcBMOMdXua4faSnL2EEO5KsvtRQKEIjFTRqJOU-IYHu8ohF7b6ZXzA-ThS2dn88AOL6RvtYwvEVWmhzKrjYzPQRmjnBsjd7doLNmUDl7a0FUy6dIbiustZtiJLTS57DCDpPEvMamFaMHLrN1JUNTiXIzA3sdGGEy1GMBt73KlJTmE2-K98H3QobyD1MuLLnEHbVmBi6wr76PQHJGIFCCaWoG2eO62oxpdYmZuDKPXLFS8boIz_0hWpYrPPmEE3xhfI-RUv2JJci2HeB2ppkJKkiG6h3hHT2Afa_9t6OqNgg5pwbFpV8mhfq7F77wLY-AW4OZ86dli4JBxhaSa9pAzbkFUQYqGN2Us-mxQn0mBGnWTiI_3QI5bJqfixgEz0Ds0NEOI66EE1iDrqrMejS7CGzGD4gKB9CFLXSNckW-eXbUy-HgN3wRr52AMaXM8=w1464-h915-no" width="450" height="282"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Okay, THIS SHOW GUYS. It is cheesy, low budgeted, and so full of plot holes and cop-outs it’s just downright hilarious. And yet. AND YET.<strong> I’ve never loved and obsessed over a show more than I have with this one</strong> <font size="3">(which is saying something…I really love TV shows)</font>. First of all, it’s ARTHURIAN LEGEND. I’ve been fascinated by King Arthur stuff since I was <em>tiny.</em> Gimme alllll the Arthurian Legend. Second, the premise is really fun: A young Merlin who becomes Arthur’s servant and has to hide his magic because magic is forbidden in Camelot. Bit of a switch on the ultra powerful old guy we’re familiar with, yes? Third, it’s emotional <em>and</em> hilarious. Some episodes will have you sobbing your eyes out, others will have you rolling on the floor in stitches. It’s a great balance!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But the TRUE gold of this show is the characters themselves. The writers may not have been great at ultra deep, clever plots, but they <em>knew</em> how to make you love the characters. The banter, the friendships, the romance, the arcs…just EVERYTHING. I adore these characters with all my heart and soul.</strong></p><strong>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4t6e6LFFvlpOaQzDvDckyAsKbxwYDEHs0cEd1jE58jb2VZE3x84sWqs8WOoqEbVbw787zAfPGN2qwpsgMjx4J-Mwq2wFHtoA693AbO1g4lmXvolNJxlY2o7tQc3KnGAtn8xMOpnDtVhN69-PDYG8mUJ7c_TWc3QLxD0-LTJPmGkJZavKhPANDc8suhOZ2d8FdhGmlvj8IGNR9C4oXxOlg-U0NBUVhxEtSaPcpAoMfqNMrGyc0yNYXxNJxRiSOs4bJisaBU6gex4YMAXgdyFM5MLEWn76TN8uGOx_g8F5cQWvdPFIxtuCQVJTMteWNtKM4oQI1OMXbayJ7Yo_vfix4vZ_oMEtRAqpnkzeHeGsCoFwtVt7LJCNxaTOTVQvQHvBv1f25b2-uI5k8FNdR50X-Lx55RyAbYLqkpj0TKTibHjY5fdKt0-6f3uJ5egY5UWJfXE8qv3vWHLPJoq48DZOw6EWQ01vd7zitcuwv53RfOTU1_EcKxt3aB7WU3hEiHEjT6RQpmIyRziU3fvKkFzS3oQLe1eT-tn5K2z7V_U6Qh3QOCEPala1fWwXW3QO7BWNwepnBQa5LFctEEaPj0Y86PbmvWCL5g44Kckv1r1UT0YD8xgoLCagRJp0ZNUK3O1t9aTdqrxoiaQK6JOJrHHLBGg_OmKuPMX-up_Z3Ps7HR59ccEh8GmLcYx00RUQo78WxUZoI_FR_E6zl-ggrY93ll_-=w268-h190-no" width="300" height="216"></strong><font size="2">Merlin and Arthur’s bantering friendship is my favorite friendship in all of fiction, just so we’re clear.</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br>I absolutely recommend this show to everyone! It’s quite family friendly, save for some low cut dresses the girls occasionally wear, and of course there’s lots of magic. But if that doesn’t bother you WATCH IT. And then thank me later. *smile, smile*</p>
<p align="justify"><br>OKAY. I need to move on before this whole post turns into a Merlin fangirl session…</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Who is your favorite fantasy hero/heroine?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Favorite hero?</strong> Howl from <em>Howl’s Moving Castle.</em></p>
<p align="justify"><strong>Favorite heroine?</strong> Sophie from <em>Howl’s Moving Castle.</em></p>
<p align="justify"><br>DON’T HATE ME. <strong>You had to know a tag centered around fantasy <em>favorites</em> would have to have multiple HMC mentions.</strong> Let’s be real here.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Okay, but Howl is such a, erm, <em>different</em> hero. He’s a coward and ridiculously melodramatic and so beyond full-of-himself. And yet you love him anyway? It just makes it <em>that</em> more satisfying when you discover all the good things he does and how much he actually cares. I just…can’t.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Then there’s Sophie, who starts out mousy and a bit of a pushover, and turns into this sass-master and throws things at Howl when she discovers she’s in love with him and like #relatable?</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Diana Wynne Jones’ characters are not your stereotypical heroes, and I LOVE that. I love how much personality and ridiculousness they have.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="3">(I was gonna do an honorable mentions list of some of my other favorite heroes/heroines, but lolololol then I realized it’d be a mile long so yeah. We’ll just stick with Howl and Sophie.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Who is your favorite fantasy side-kick?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>GOOD GRACIOUS. I…don’t know? There are <em>so</em> many great side characters out there. UGH. All right, this one is getting a list, because I really don’t have one specific favorite.</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br>- <strong>Luna Lovegood</strong> (from <em>Harry Potter </em>by J.K. Rowling) </p></blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify">- <strong>Neville Longbottom</strong> (also <em>Harry Potter,</em> the HP side characters are the best.)</p>
<p align="justify">- <strong>Samwise Gamgee</strong> (from <em>Lord of the Rings</em> by J.R.R. Tolkien but I think you guys already knew that. ;P)</p>
<p align="justify">- <strong>Carswell Thorne</strong> (from <em>The Lunar Chronicles </em>by Marissa Meyer)</p>
<p align="justify">- <strong>Iko</strong> (also from <em>The Lunar Chronicles </em>by Marissa Meyer)</p>
<p align="justify">- <strong>Walter Foley</strong> (from <em>The Dragons in Our Midst </em>series by Bryan Davis)</p>
<p align="justify">-<strong> Calcifer</strong> (from <em>Howl’s Moving Castle </em>[yes I had to, shh])</p>
<p align="justify">- <strong>Crispin Beasley</strong> (from <em>The Beaumont and Beasley </em>series by Kyle Robert Shultz)</p>
<p align="justify">- <strong>Arbrook Huxley</strong> (from <em>The Electrical Menagerie </em>by Mollie E. Reeder)</p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br>Yeah, we could be here forever. I’ll just move on…</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Who is your favorite fantasy villain? (the one you most love to hate?)</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>Blermf. I DON’T KNOOOW. Again, I don’t have a specific one I can name at the drop of the hat. There are so <em>many.</em></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Some I’ve always loved to hate are Bryan Davis’ villains <font size="2">(he writes some formidable ones)</font>. <strong>Devin and Morgan from his <em>Dragons in Our Midst/Oracles of Fire </em>series seriously do not. know. when. to. QUIT.</strong> You want the heroes to defeat them SO BAD. <strong>Then there’s Mictar, from his <em>Echoes from the Edge</em> trilogy, who is one of the most spine-tingling villains to exist. </strong>That guy gave me the CREEPS. Which was epic but…yeah. Ewgh.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Death-in-Life/the Dragon from the <em>Tales of Goldstone Wood </em>by Anne Elisabeth Stengl is soooo hate-worthy.</strong> The destruction he caused just…yeah. <em>Not</em> one of those dragons you want to mess with.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Then of course there’s Levana from </strong><em><strong>The Lunar Chronicles.</strong> </em>Who is so detestable and deluded. Like seriously lady, take a chill-pill.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>OH. <strong>And Cora from ABC’s <em>Once Upon a Time </em>TV series.</strong> Ugh. I hated her so, so much. The completely twisted things she did made me furious.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XxdC_qIzVlcssmA4jMX-0zwosMjXuWGj8-9TwPR7X9O__IbG-NlEoEDUi1cNeEIrkCfBifX0cfgWYGQdD8-IJe4bclunNQQtO1wRJKvwyAsjJvA2q-Xszq5ximP9h4bnebMkcu7sdC07K19w2fAbOuu5QHoZZJ5SZ0E_0_NjGgNjUvGSgTe2DVWokew6XAqZvqGJQwWI8t8K3WaxU7B0E_ktO-Se5fuTsnUeYUIUKxr9TXD8nYOET0WH3N9qHnS4ASckTKOdfc9q0uEYXBa2KhfJpoFYy3uOrGHaaDucSYFKn5aEkJPPWu4l6NVaetsayQh7EKPIBO-mfKjDj2yPIbg2a0pfyN1UgWqJ8dNOnv4oNdEmkWoYBJiUTNx0vHQlbL2WqOOvVrx5w67ozijtnlOg_k-lP-j8Mv14jji6kyZMUSjBDC-CTcuPnIx_98TeURxmkKH75vnkOeQz4D4S9I7cfYs1s2osiin0KfNpWYa4GhDr9MFqm9XeQo4noUtVHR_4x8SprpWt_RmWwtiuJ2KHEOfSWZL7TYTiL7w85db3Uv_b_RKRb13-ad7gAVlMvdMF9brtp2MlNbt-6VmqvezPBOv9q4NnjKUX5sKooeVGjMl5yh6D5Wx58CVLQz9ms3nKWYOaQ2DX5Jo532d9NrJYgYwDf5lCiTc5dgtakCMIAtmbxJmMVqexUHnkUt4MGPww8gtP68vswVNVOqxsdRB3=w500-h281-no" width="400" height="228"><font size="2">Just go away, woman. Please.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Mainly what draws me to a villain (in a I-hate-you-but-respect-you-as-a-villain sort of way), is if they’re a seriously formidable foe. If they’re easy to take down, then what’s the point? No. I want villains who make it so hard for the heroes, you can’t imagine <em>how</em> they’re going to make it through it. It just makes the villain’s downfall <em>that</em> much more satisfying!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">What is your favorite fantasy sub-genre?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>Oh good, an easy question for a change! <strong>That would absolutely be fairy tales and retellings.</strong> I WILL TAKE ALL THE FAIRY TALES THANK YOU.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qS_vx--wruHv_CpHi34RM2OtnKQQiCzogqVmyLD1gmk7j8E7XRl-gpXlMt7eKdNZP_TKiCJJqqjkga_4Ip2BBdyxdq9htGRkj5xn7UCpVGHYgu_N52JQXV76NTLRhZygkLkh9nXJuVz43KryCSEsmfltMBID1q_IPkNNCa1K3nmNujQ9daC_i9LoPv_eOIcWs4k8KIvNUOcv5WICCVPeMX7DfqrymfSNjzMoecxubK5IM9rB9j-zVobcIVyVITczGR8zr1KoVyDiVIeqqnNHsJh785PDgOkl0OFJmQ2LefCMvBRSkP9HEjZW1Sl27QtWVskos9h_kQ0Mxa_TUhiyH2WbO9rBO8darj_OM7-Jh-ouk5eI-gQ5upQfPpQxZ3yvctJcZkFsNCMKQPXLZSlHwPC8ehBKyNfxFgAH99cgKmISJG-zgv53lmAVzdRZ_95gPjAUbD_YRM-y5uYm3nS_ThpK9rZJtN4M-FqBzWBE43Zd0Ow8BfruXxx-mVXROBkCLemcY-btS-DsbvPxbhJFiTURFHHvJllSBvaKCpSx4yG_W_yY5vGJUJVsKf4vcDj1Ny60zv7G-oew1XUt7RU0KmldJsnAIfV3oWuEUoHgODFPaTVpdUQ_3jH4DESqTSIrj9QkTtOHgQ3Fm5EfkYkJxC08jd0XUG2UTrGNV8uqGApjK4_4bUr_gfBYoPj_SBeURfh-frpj3Ek1UrURSjnxcdS9=w500-h268-no" width="400" height="218"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">What is your favorite thing about fantasy?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>DRAGONS!!!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Okay, okay. I’ll tryyy to answer this seriously. <font size="3">(I mean, dragons is 10000% one of the biggest things I love about fantasy, but ya know.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I think my favorite thing about fantasy is the infiniteness of it all. There is literally NO end to what you can do with fantasy.</strong> With contemporaries or historical fiction, you’re stuck with rules of time periods and this world. But with fantasy? ANYTHING goes. Literally anything.<strong> I just love the utter imagination of it.</strong> How you can make stuff up, or use things that exist but turn them into something new, or even change history. Dragons and fairies and talking trees and shapshifting cats and magical weapons and prophecies and chosen ones and lost princes and princesses and literally ANYTHING ELSE you can ever think of can EXIST in the realm of fantasy. Just thinking about the possibilities makes my reader and writer heart soar.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But also fantasy has dragons.</strong> So yeah.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">What is your favorite fantasy realm?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>JENELLE. You are killing me with these questions!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Again, I have the hardest time choosing just ONE. <strong>It’s always been a toss up between Middle-earth, Narnia, Neverland, and Wonderland.</strong> But I have <em>never</em> been able to choose. MEH.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">What is your favorite fantasy magic system?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>Hmmm! I’ve never really thought about this much.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I really liked the magic system in <em>Fawkes </em>by Nadine Brandes.</strong> It involves color magic and masks, in which you’re chosen by a specific color <font size="2">(if I remember right?)</font>, and when you wear that mask of that color, you can move objects of the same color. Like let’s say I was chosen by the color green, then, when I had my green mask on, I could telekinetically move any thing the color green. Epic, right? And I love masks, so using them in that way was BRILLIANT.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I also love the bending in the Nickelodeon show <em>Avatar: The Last Airbender.</em></strong> It’s all about controlling, or “bending”, specific elements (earth, fire, water, and air), and I think elemental magic is super awesome!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XcP5oMS32CPUiWmIlA6F5-jlkPkkXIE6Ga5qZecpaVQgPfUlkVJeLjT-XqFevuRE1Di_EYiaNoUzTEl4fDOJQSXCilZ4fRS4GTBlmpIJGwDKOYfkecE4r_Exj-47ibILr7GQC75knb0WkrDFneOItpiZnXuthgIn9McvlgPSIi_dNbU6F3AYBgY78weKteJL_jtnQQb2w1R-4Wq6hPM_DitUMaKfW8gXDCwmm_9gN0BpyM0vJojqQVpcR3dlWRknu9vWbwxsKS_rSQuTx5_LmaDwPbqxj1KGY7kZ15GJloPysHpUkoUNa3BjB6hh5CIAIsIW_ONQeuFBwifBrHKpTsIUmso3Htt6nilPJaUBefpM0hNaqoCmq86u3mDPtxYQ4dfj-GcvOA33OtA3pALLg65fMUIBsiFzYKNt2s2VgMVY7RY0Lki6S8h9YuX7ajQcs_BuuSrfcRwZj_05vhN1xibEVd5JP-vori3BGIiB6xYD3oSbWJ4nZJD03h8ZfcUpQ2tz0vure-NPBWHWvviHw0wdedaX6zulKoyREStmQCh5q6VfXSOv1W_NlsfdKqfB1vsBzfLQzVTAyHP-FijY7uCyyQKkzXLSocskMEAU4RIu_7VMB76h-cq0VREjKKPofB37BfThPH088pp-l45gVm-127r7NqDNDD6n5GULNGeWtg7P5Qc7J3ldvkqrNu4fLQNFZEwehX0d0tYApK8B52WE=w500-h254-no" width="400" height="207"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Sell me a fantasy book! Have you written a fantasy book? Give me your best pitch for it! Have you read an exceptionally great fantasy book recently? Convince me to make it my next read!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="4">Oooh, fun. I have of course written a fantasy book <font size="2">(okay, lots of them)</font> but nothing’s published. So let’s go with an actual published book. Hmmm… What book do I want to <strike>force</strike> convince you guys to read? I’ve already talked about <em>Howl’s Moving Castle</em>. Eheh.</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>OH. I KNOW.</p>
<p align="center"><br><strong><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40582242-the-electrical-menagerie" target="_blank"><font size="6">The Electrical Menagerie</font></a><br><font size="5">by Mollie E. Reeder</font></strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40582242-the-electrical-menagerie" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Y3Ncv4LV3RyS-ly5ezkJTlrQbfUCz7xveIVwbUcLFH3h-x9fzmb9XTCu6dntZw_9JaYQPjCIvGv4W98tKnnI43qlq0dClnkEnl_mwcIMyErj2aXoc86xo2zQgebrYBl3hXaMV9zNJj3tPj-_itYcKrHxn6bSYSZd4AsmwPFPFurMJD_z3szsDyMS1lqUxMW119dW4NaucA8V-33hbbsjsJgB1w8895ZNzdxgR0SzTT-qXPWml8-qT_MDh5LiuxswFTxdDC8oL6T0OcfTHMm6OqkqIGZQQtUmc9tKMMfFtbU5-CKQB2Ma5ICIUq9rxl4zS17vffJzYukiPaRwU2HLJkOZWik0qjzrgaw9qeuyqlLwhvG_jJ2M74hyswdpIL0BHvbmEd177bmJkZvawMh_W4hUJdW5T6tuky-eTCfID5qAcvn2f5AkArEaFNSDIRCe3HFmJMJIyTrgkIl_RVPJNuNAHc_wPAYujJtA_vihSsM4LXLyJb_g9x5gHqCJUknhOE5zAB0XYOP_Sxa-JsJghLMM46XH8DhpP7oYGMNLNNEtdfPq2q8sCpQbmZUBzdoCpK8OwYDUiDKhades7MnOi_nlMma0efhxaNt34L7Cr7ufUQdKaq4Y7eFbtSsPWBncwtkeyOrSE10bMK3n3fk9eBet_ptAUsRzx-E8_WvMN2X6iEnIHewTX3hptt9KsrjpidHWzH4-BZt-VoamfW3I_eKk=w308-h475-no" width="250" height="381"></a><font size="3">(Link leads to GoodReads page so you can add it to your TBR. *wink, wink* *nudge, nudge*)</font></p></blockquote><font size="3">
<p align="justify"><br></font>I just recently read it and guys. GUYS.</p>
<p align="justify"><br></font><font size="4">There are a few special books in the world we each have, those chosen ones we can always count on to bring a smile, to make us feel warm inside like a hug from a loved one. Those cozy, go-to stories that never let us down or get tiring no matter how many times we read them. I’ve only ever had a few. <em>Howl’s Moving Castle</em>, <em>The Betsy-Tacy</em> series, <em>The Hobbit,</em> <em>Narnia</em>, and…that’s it? WELL. <strong><em>The Electrical Menagerie</em> can now be added to the list. <em>That’s</em> how much I loved it.</strong><br><br>This book is compared to <em>The Greatest Showman</em>, with good reason. But imagine <em>The Greatest Showman</em> set on floating islands with automatons powered by stardust and a competition to perform for the Future Celestial Queen herself all interwoven into an intriguing mystery. So yes, <em>The Greatest Showman</em> but...better. YES, BETTER.</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>Our protagonist is Sylvester Carthage, a middle-aged man with a knack for creating “electricals” (basically robots that he makes to perform in his traveling circus-eque show). THIS MAN. I love how he wasn't your stereotypical 17-year-old perfect hero. <strong>He's a man struggling with a health problem and to make ends meet but with stardust in his eyes.</strong> He clings so tightly to hope and dreams and doing the impossible, while also much preferring to tamper quietly with his electricals than attend parties. I ADORED him. ADORED. He was seriously one of the most precious of characters I’ve <em>ever</em> met.<br><br><strong>Then there's Arbrook Huxley, the younger, charming, smooth-talking business partner who always provided a laugh.</strong> You’d think he’d take over the show and I’d like him more, but somehow Carthage stole my heart completely. But AWK. Arbook was amazing too. AND THE FRIENDSHIP. Epic bromance anyone? YES PLEASE. The friendship between these two was pure gold. Possibly one of my most favorite literary friendships in existence.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Oh, and can we also talk about the SETTING? <strong>Floating islands and flying trains all above the aether sea and set in a steampunk-type atmosphere.</strong> YES. It was so…magical. I don’t even know how to explain it. It’s just something you have to experience. But it was, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful, unique fantasy worlds I have EVER come across.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>The plot is also so engaging. <strong>Full of mystery and friendship and dazzling performances. I was enraptured.</strong> YOU GUYS. I <em>literally</em> cried when I finished it, just because I loved it so much I didn't want it to end. Like…I’m not joking. I don’t know if I’ve ever done that before?? But wow. THIS BOOK. Just…just read it. You won’t regret it, I promise.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="3">(I should probably just do a proper review of this because I could talk about it forever.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ihFiMwAY-MIBs6LGQSiOEexCjcWgA2v35vlmcEKM8pfndItOwe_NT43kUIboKSM291RGyJMJqPwKilv9GrdikKL13tE_dke8dbIZ0cLUTXVJRAhakOdSmGF3CzXFQAIrtNXEWtU_PYmGwPl4ojQC1eJunZK7jGov6D6Re64yXWJhsRa_PXf7v3SEyQy_R_h2A57abe6GAVRmntI4i_JNsrDpsp5iEcG0tM0ikwIzR_aeHYXH5GntGRt7Xie9HmLlJUOqZS6UaRtrQvIIAbZ6b0VAWv79etzksGCKJbX4zAa_VixlFeEm-9pm4vWTC8v4cWVUf0L6jI_oRJNMYCc7MbfSJycPZWgjijvHrWrisgI36MtOIUMJrZ9fjinV3Nh7YT1xjocjX3StqNKZAdqhz19_8nnf8y2sIWcEjoUI3n_T55tAK5XbXe4uahVDC7eO1diiBODy_yGjsjWGfDV6WlTVHmaqhrydk12mpV0J74f32BG27xL-9zZkwPmsMq-O7QEEjcfw15ibOI2SFasNcsTGsxV4XeYc7d72GhDVLzkqn51EQXZN9CKsy2KMkjrXn7z79nN8V-z4qXX0AxXGtW2BDSopugO-ItV8_05Me6svg2UPFw7lNQr3mBC99ARoz7G0T8LRW1FPB_0CVknzO7Mld-tlGDqg52XyeevPppaS_SzjaXRDHuJwhjWbCIDhAfuQk4k_kRQz3Om_mi8VjVUw=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Whew! Those were some tough questions. But so much fun! Thank you, Jenelle, for creating such an epic tag! Now let’s pass this awesome thing on!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">. . . TAGGING . . .</font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><a href="http://liannetaimenlore.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><font size="5">Kiri Liz @ Lianne Taimenlore</font></a><font size="5"> | </font><a href="http://thefloridsword.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><font size="5">R.F. Gammon @ The Writer's Song</font></a><font size="5"> | </font><a href="https://madelinejrose.wordpress.com/" target="_blank"><font size="5">Madeline @ Short and Snappy</font></a><font size="5"> | + YOU </font><font size="4">(because I love this tag and want everyone to do it bwahaha)</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IxTv8_FWwuEtPwN4Z9WE-2AJNJ_NFV7eyOc8v4SjUeQIhLumw2Qaekw_479kZKQM7Ex5vnzoU4ipXT9GYMrrQCrFU2X37EoSpnA1rHHj_FggWcqc_bNpGbgBVrEbPiYY5fNx7qPvnvScGap5J2LdpwqRjy8-P0k-SapDPU5cbOGLKb7ln_dPwGyhNvE-dQnemQAuW72IRUa39CYo28CVKvGf7WHh2jz9xCkXrYD7-FS3mTl1Ic24esOiLToE9KoF5UIJ0JSTirmWjBOLvUc82Vle-38REsXS2florUg-quYAbyuV7HzkuQ7cXx3_GTK_GwDq1vFVb_72FW20EB6RvoTzRwnVxDDA1-_GEh6AJN3si_SKaaXyQ5AhH1QwRhog5-vkr34adC-aXasPMqFbGKQo7URhIWIOBvPYxfzDc8V42IiyHw-LC0ChCSbqEUoUqtniNrKbMje7URwrCCNLTsLon-KC3FSuCQeFv0rLqmMfilk0J5u9pzknbruDq2xaPhn-uaHkQgsV1Z47wvBruvA0Yup5NKWgTbdGVh8P4ggzF_tLrsyXvxEnHHyR_fKolo7LKKkOnEnEoJZWfVCJyM8fq0GMlMmuLy-j0nd2L6FCyANVUH68jRA4hU69OW0tRE2Df_3gTbsFTeu_WqrJq6OFdWZDkSj3BxsjcqlYGKe7a04eFHrqthl3PHWIc5PTWI1ZckeCB-KomjyGnbHbGSFE=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">QUESTIONS</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Here are the questions for easy copying and pasting purposes.</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><em>What is your favorite fantasy book?</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>What is your favorite fantasy movie or TV show (or both!)?</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>Who is your favorite fantasy hero/heroine?</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>Who is your favorite fantasy side-kick?</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>Who is your favorite fantasy villain? (the one you most love to hate?)</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>What is your favorite fantasy sub-genre?</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>What is your favorite thing about fantasy?</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>What is your favorite fantasy realm?</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>What is your favorite fantasy magic system?</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>Sell me a fantasy book! Have you written a fantasy book? Give me your best pitch for it! Have you read an exceptionally great fantasy book recently? Convince me to make it my next read!</em></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br>Don’t forget Fantasy Month is still going on for a few days. You can find the full schedule <a href="http://jenelleschmidt.com/fantasy-month-tour-schedule/" target="_blank">HERE</a>!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4bjvbiDbuXfdpI4rgXUjh5w8qOTaN89hX1vmusDrIh1HIX54wosHeLwGls7xnc7CBuauL4LC6WhuEgmDrL4p9fJUm7bGzL2Vvr6QVc7P4n3PhXFwa5VOnTPvtJKL89dgYaquDxtV9oW0yRnTytfeBoYdKc4MpmhwfHBvsfs5953P2gJPxN0_Y7-9YlbMppcVNNVawxJG0h8pc1VoaY3IXTn-gsLvsh430bLbNrPrTzSI8RLWIsw-SbvJdEoToom_zfHG0C5TQubJF18kN0-b7Mno7FCEURQqvgVOsMBztekupedWhSSgynlQbuoe7KdrQq6_wQOeCbpqLUXH_X2dZ5VtNJdffuRfQRe72N7DaelRq361VmObpherK8nIE7rygKwLmycvLAdkDTRcnFh47XnRUzTPJfDetDhCfu_WeKbRO_SbEnGKo7nD9rkuuxhlKlxoONBxzEBKMQusqtFxGX_cci9HueCBHo6VRe_lFZvewib0ySZWwtIglzIkITpzrVGMbK4NVyjLu8NGeN_1xkm2kcSfwz_QRBjuyo_Fzk6LlJZhDGHdFRKshhSW4gWB3H_HBrRazokoThMy-j3MdqCqwEO4aWfpXguLt6R-35Vbk4RqwlQn8nxJaiHJ1qVNmCm_5qtsEP4gzYZHypAHlizerlq1Uil5wjh-SuKyOpF32_S_PT6IJZsueq3fOAStFhIGwZCLuinzTZ6i6RnBsyUw=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">What’s YOUR favorite fantasy book? I NEED TO KNOW. And favorite fantasy movie and TV show <font size="4">(I’m always looking for more!)</font></font><font size="5">? Do we share any favorite fantasy things? Let’s give fantasy ALL the love!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-71298699152784246672019-02-18T11:09:00.000-06:002019-02-18T11:09:17.908-06:00A Heart-Shaped Box of OTPs Tag<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6Y8jSdipoNRk0VZzSomLeC5AcacOwXk4gQO_obs82WEtpGky1tHuhFnnhpF34IT0Prh2X4jGV3shHdFbWh-XvJnbx0CO9EvMmVFlTFZXpSIQHmQ4qUFjCKOHEVt8Wxbhj3JICuiMr-vWAQZ_usTx5tCvNzP3hdCROW6kp5QqaBftyj_2AsWmXQJOgRI0YnJ8vtT7L1SpgUiA6EzMd1YW-YnQTaMQ0dsUmFoKaQp9HvTVxl5ED-LA3evampg9dGgqiFggq7g-inrBbnht25Esyci9osWe7ohL-EOgggAI17iacKBNcRbsIIulyQaDmIrv2opq94AQSsQmD8oFCDxagZg45IUd3hh21j1hAeqPkp7bVM16lqpK-AB7fiiMigUqdPMBMJB2dU4yO35HJ2jOcIhZdm34Oney47CJlA4yBnMgRYqDSsaUOSJyVNpMyXK7gWlqiq2MHvaMmwQEKCmZHkBhEz7IzW37iirHENQHLTDIBmMQkaT1fjeqnu8iWq7jat9UrnpeBbD0rnmEhOtXl6sYQznc3tGxCAFPkZFplrffpKY5dd1ScrWEEFls3r3rqc8H2SStdI_pj5h6u3BbuubVshAb7yRfyeyRkAh5nHzZiPu9AtYRFDAOU6GoI6fvyRchU4-nnY8JvixeiSENnK6YsPK7CSaCdpRNNkwiDc97cC2WqX2teap2WOJt8Vm-wT-CV_JxY6hm3SzJpzQ7qLr6=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>Valentine’s Day might has passed BUT that doesn’t mean we have to stop the love. And, to be honest, I usually just use Valentine’s Day as an excuse to gush about my favorite fictional couples. I HAVE A PROBLEM OKAY?</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Luckily, in honor of this month of love, my dear friend and awesome person all around <a href="http://liannetaimenlore.blogspot.com/2019/02/a-heart-shaped-box-of-otps-tag.html" target="_blank">Kiri Liz</a> has <strong>created a linkup literally catered toward gushing over fictional ships.</strong> Best tag ever? I THINK SO. This tag focusing on all our different OTPs <font size="3">(which is fandom-ese for “One True Pairing”)</font> and compares them to chocolate. Like opening a heart-shaped box only to find a dozen adorable couples packed inside instead of chocolate <font size="2">(er…wut?)</font>, which is fine by me since I don’t actually *ahem* <em>like</em> chocolate. *cue half of you unfollowing me* DON’T HATE ME.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I should probably just do the tag now before this gets more awkward…</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yDa5EX1RzgV_rds7245i4RZhE3aeCS2zoPa0aK1SaijmIXZWjlckdrDlMaBklatJyVNSrOXNlmm0xSRMyRSjEEICq8HZb7ZaQeQk8yAqlRSpciSrv5sQUUrwY423FkMPZ0t0E_wANEbUI0OIe-mFEenZJfc0UHCBE2is0VAHsH2V0BJYXdVotn26bguy_zRqrNYeDJtva7hjYmXWsV2Y61h9TYQmH8h6Yuwp1YPV0jilv5UqK1uP8OU141PojOeJgZ64UpJ3SK1VB4R9FncQLRIVPMcg53gtD6I7lI_SLWGQ0L8Q78bj_odcsAkaA7jkaoGvlgkHWJ3h8od0RE0zb7DAd5QBuLnmECYXJR2luLBftrJKEyXfu0hVM3cN3cgfHIF83ZsKXzAA53MfBvYu9rZH-TfhYpnZQ_swtClGDOSv3yunlrBmJKUGBVJ-613F6P7Re_N8OR5aETw4Ivd7bI5o8RpN19bdr0dpIVt66uuLIh9wEaMHP-iY0Nmg6T-VeFlNenVJKDPCL-DB6SXRRJ4ECo8mY1gyXdo5N6aY-eO3xRJ7XYwunO0mG3RNniVUKZSg6peQlY8vlibrOjDSxnxWTWfgk5YE6iZZG_nmYDY1KMAKzNEusCb9ojvdobxbe670uC_L3F-Ftuy8NIS5iKBrRgSbuwytEWjxNwUfwsy28EqsNwZnEW9vSYfAfRPKjxCeQ4BgDycI-xUKBWhsSUoH=w245-h170-no" width="350" height="247"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>SO. Kiri split this tag into two parts. <strong>The first ten questions are more mainstream and classic. Then, she made ten more optional questions that add a bit of an exotic, bizarre twist.</strong> It’s totally optional if you want to do the additional 10 questions. But, me being the obsessive shipper I am, OF COURSE chose to go for all 20 questions. So get ready for a boatload of ships! <font size="2">(Wait…how do ships ride on boats, isn’t it the other way around?)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>WARNING:</strong> Fangirling ahead, proceed with caution.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE-i2wod3B_77i7VwyQYZipOd8TZ79sfaKTbU_v773QLqlEMjo_P4nxOkcaqI64P23MnT3LKAU9vAGgSgJc2J0N1PU7mvDUmMhaRGGrllRJypYegmPb_LOUCZxN_4g_H8TlNkGwoe4MK3I/s400/OTP-Tag-Banner.PNG"><font size="3"><a href="http://liannetaimenlore.blogspot.com/2019/02/a-heart-shaped-box-of-otps-tag.html" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a> to get the questions and join the linkup!</font><br></p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/DeEKQOkOqlJyu5hI-OqGetpKqp7G55rmpqpS80IXRnzlV22Z7BjJ5OyqMavQxSvjHCS8E50zVscgJf85BawZviP0HIPU1rFu_2euPOHAl5RIv77p5L7Xg1JlDjjInqdr_N4m5cu3utmJuPHlE4uqrv7CHantQuOBMv6C-NkLhvXng3PMtJKuNDf9Bs0vtjzxFk_sm8f9LREgndFT2jZ5wejaFmU3couRYsGKF6ELZXchoQ0jrJ5ts3L2HdAGiCwKtWe-JOBD-BER_lc-HQh5LQ9Nfok7Bj9rxqLX-WztVniRo_CsC6UCLkLrhG9OUy4fDPFefI0-eZYvY8jKWkyciBSvWHyldueHRVz7kx8_GfWQgytmTx2paDPZtqVMWvFi7apODiibXBnuJ9GUjzkKCQ4z5J88RNrZ4hBRD2XomHwUWUeflmzOzVklQyU1owRx47Tsli9TG6E1mPVTQHfvqdRy5ppkmGvhwWSrmgx3gTsNu8Fh-AOYt0cexneS4gG3fpx4QP6PjaIwHUmM226F--Imxw9by-EQlHDSOiOlmLuebniFmDZSuAExWzDNqLetRvc-RejL8bKco3GKXUqb9TBso-h-4rB_Y2zULGDmFHRfQQ3mYcGCkR1x2Vyw8kgjhJLUmTLGTWykMYWjZN6URaxNPxT66Y3qwrm9dX7YKILjGDLD__uGUywaUn2o-xkLfNNOb5P50RTxNluwYwZwnTnD=w1647-h293-no" width="450" height="83"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>A HEART-SHAPED<br>BOX OF OTPS</strong></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/DeEKQOkOqlJyu5hI-OqGetpKqp7G55rmpqpS80IXRnzlV22Z7BjJ5OyqMavQxSvjHCS8E50zVscgJf85BawZviP0HIPU1rFu_2euPOHAl5RIv77p5L7Xg1JlDjjInqdr_N4m5cu3utmJuPHlE4uqrv7CHantQuOBMv6C-NkLhvXng3PMtJKuNDf9Bs0vtjzxFk_sm8f9LREgndFT2jZ5wejaFmU3couRYsGKF6ELZXchoQ0jrJ5ts3L2HdAGiCwKtWe-JOBD-BER_lc-HQh5LQ9Nfok7Bj9rxqLX-WztVniRo_CsC6UCLkLrhG9OUy4fDPFefI0-eZYvY8jKWkyciBSvWHyldueHRVz7kx8_GfWQgytmTx2paDPZtqVMWvFi7apODiibXBnuJ9GUjzkKCQ4z5J88RNrZ4hBRD2XomHwUWUeflmzOzVklQyU1owRx47Tsli9TG6E1mPVTQHfvqdRy5ppkmGvhwWSrmgx3gTsNu8Fh-AOYt0cexneS4gG3fpx4QP6PjaIwHUmM226F--Imxw9by-EQlHDSOiOlmLuebniFmDZSuAExWzDNqLetRvc-RejL8bKco3GKXUqb9TBso-h-4rB_Y2zULGDmFHRfQQ3mYcGCkR1x2Vyw8kgjhJLUmTLGTWykMYWjZN6URaxNPxT66Y3qwrm9dX7YKILjGDLD__uGUywaUn2o-xkLfNNOb5P50RTxNluwYwZwnTnD=w1647-h293-no" width="450" height="83"><font size="4"><font size="7"></font></p><font size="4"><font size="7">
<p align="center"><br>FIRST SET</font><br></p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">Original Chocolate Heart<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP that started it all}</font><font size="4"></p>
<p align="center"><br></font><strong><font size="6">Belle & the Beast<br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Beauty and the Beast<br></em>Disney Animated Film</font><font size="4"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/GOmxYo-_b1hMhS9cI40xFC7CEVmWnhb3H0HVxuPwI2HT3S97NXfILv6g7OTc4gNVN8pOzio0JUbL078K9LS5YXW7DpKF9B_0llFstBhctI5eqoyRqYvCYsrx4FDyfKXy5d0mBzCiuXDQ-2XsqU14eK8Ya2dEgAowJFoGc9N-vpwodAb8OE98PlifZw37f5EgVv3HLaYMdIgOEKxmfNUcz59dK2DmxR4sh_1MktDyeUwJ1yZLeT8-QAeSS_lZRiV4LbDzn9YUuQwAELsKs1SYbRdeZ_XyK6Z8xS7yEY_nmZBye8r3woX9_Fqb4WR6E7zh62KGKj__5ppiiQh-o4Kb-Gu1L2an4gNTBUxqWIcQin86Nqt5GuJxHWqu6_-QoUPmM7hcWfgdy8au_GHVjkG_SFgvqEKoVZSUmwN1UNxhpm3X83r0UsquKAMQ6HMoMSXPyVjb8_6HR0CDjfH6bCmu-wwbK5dhJ_T7YIz0sPPyJokJy9pFVcQabbmZhxtsU8nxM6lAuhfoi4JeyzGYG_KHV3YBvTvqWYJ7vzn-mnu0lzA5xwjpkKckacQIKmLchyH9k2bYmpO1I2U4EgFKj6uj4vEPoi6dNW3oEfIWi88Yw-rJZB15eX-iu_7PlBp8ItMzd4a-LH_ykPRXNCMNe0NNtLG89H0QGBVuvka_LTS5twwACUQvSAPYJ74hnJ7I1hkNol566zF4MdyDl9AsdYho2ZKE=w611-h915-no" width="200" height="298"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>So this was HARD. Because I really have no clue what my <em>first</em> ever ship was. I didn’t really consciously think about couples and all that when I was real little. Ah, the simple days when I could watch TV and read books without being emotional scarred. Good times, good times.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Ahem. ANYWAY. If I had to guess,<strong> I’d say Bell and the Beast from the Disney animated classic was my first foray into shipping.</strong> I grew up on those Disney classics, and these two were always my favorite couple.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>So yeah, I’ve been a Beauty and the Beast fan since I was born. Anyone surprised?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rkzPCEBsThrIAQQmTBrMr4Ol6qNSTKyfRNqlZBTkxoefnNRE-FyVZjnRcVbJ3aoZ2yQ447kDzlD3Ai3iadzophp7iRTlSO85QJd_1dWuMX95nZurZ6_yvfc6BHQ5zmtFWI_4XGPMJhfaU-7YfYBHNQVFIP5qTw58z-RNFYa50Wq0vp4Sm3aDqZwTzLlB1-R7um3NKxqNonzU7bPIYw4Zn-BfeX3kO2bjkV9UiD0f78ZIULib7hvyyrrcCxh5QW9aekXfxuBj99JUI1KO-8TAL4mUcXJf8OC2W2Ou4YJoxi_BXa3LcCRlt6H1GSGOUX0My62wSCDl0yeBaS3Ur4TpDFoRVa44QbRqQpo0GOg8frPxH95p1HAZm7LTXD8OCWosiMQ0Is756lltQ2q_ZsvsPwJYeY5stko8gZf3jfDyewmG2ZRRMppbrKBUwzb4A3-UxZorKf-aU27b4fccWQrv9_5LyU4qD3wIiRVcRmHErVzSdgcHkdzK5muKostrHpX3mbZdqRIMaRkZITJmEp__mD_FCbDu4YidUezYWJPa-3wUBgnc391fSBHzT_MatyypVPimXe3n8flgNuxYwcMJyVXoXLNb09WRX_L_xPFzlM6ATZTQImn3iPJiWjlvEeFInDfVBHulgnOcS3ebA4x7pQ3Jf8qRJpIuichE1dQGsvJxGq1sMk3GKNWrdnQTm0lKo6CfKgSHP6d-bJsZeFg_A8C5=w575-h324-no" width="350" height="200"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"></font><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Dark Chocolate<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP with the most drama}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br></font><font size="6"><strong>Nym & Eogan<br></strong></font><font size="5"><em>The Storm Siren </em>trilogy<br>by Mary Weber<br></font><font size="4"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jugczVWPQERkLEZAlpeF8YJsmcmDfO5t3fWfqg524vvgAvwPNIo8LYDNWW3Ohyylbk_ma9MngQABByUiXlM0pyxaqp7wJNZigg_E4OkwzwxEQ7E_ZoPGCB4jUWGnnFfWhHc5R6OOZt4hFx2v5_wYrrf_Y-FOaEgJIe1RiCmDf04hQOWyJLBlMkX3_0ns4RnMMYTwmlIEMONB1J3BGZy5TCwH1eo0gnt6PgvdcVNbcfKcQ8c4PZoMnvAZ-xO2KHOJvOmsvSjS8hPA2lt4ZDYQkxJVl9lh3p3mDPXOq0wdt4UwIgLG685Qd5hQFMIv2V414aKv0afuc-gAMk2DqkU-wL4wtXvDh9sG7E3GgZLov2P7Vt_QDVDu7n6HVHlK5gF5STOxoS1u5Q7KNDtIWiWSyF78r6X1u1S58SMPCALkCAhlxukfQwSj13g35WFwJ_rVoQxQldj5oXCR9XY6TRe335_6QRWRiTGnC1m4XQIDrfICkzXJIJTFvDqUItHITcS8E3Fo6sRowJ513B46X9Oe8HHlFEvsclshPdCObkNFrxEe4Fm6Uj7F8Jhj-5nileznXsUuo8C8_0SwGUEZzf98lJSpFhVg_CZfkfZWT75Xi6n6liXXHMSeLmXGcgIatvuu7-Q-wlEAV4B5NjHzNMjlh9LvtesabngDkvhV2UwYm8xUmSwGl3CNW_deqH10Hzy1VTex7xik2yD-V2XQf9suJybm=w312-h475-no" width="200" height="302"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This one was hard because lolololol they’ve ALL got drama. I mean, these are fictional people after all. Usually they’re off saving the world and almost dying and being put through tension by their evil authors just for the <em>sake</em> of drama<font size="2"> (gotta have that over-the-top drama in fiction after all)</font>. As we all know, OTP <em>really</em> stands for “Oh The Pain”.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But, the first couple to come to mind when I thought of drama was Nym and Eogan from <em>The Storm Siren </em>trilogy.</strong> No spoilers here but OOMPH. The thiiiings those two went through just… o.o Pain. So much pain.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Caramel Filled<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP that's simple and sweet}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="7"><font size="6">Robin Hood & Marian</font><br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Robin Hood<br></em>Disney Animated Film</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/c5LMS-ZewnGvhUVUorABu3wPmzGd-c-emsNUNX27dml2k6rnuhel9_1Hk3dEXENari3c27Sbc1UBaOlKzKjmCcGxTx19rzz5u34Z_s1g9lXV4jlbn92zKDTVsKTiNpA3qnoDr7oZxsCB52Jyu2asuAwwP4-eBMKnHEQtPJlNt_lP0Z77hIYLyAXhNGMbc9NfJBdaMPBJFC99RkInhXLaWPpMt0IisVW_ZpgorwDuYrXcSIsFhqG2X461rz2n20VsIrUV9imEIejkDaVRRGUQRuucnIPDrc01n-RF5IfxyJ3wZ2ZTwKDWDZXPGg6FDCpFdJGxE8n2l8zGjy5v4gL5h2C-GbdwZYlFKNOYRibfc4L33AWYiSStIzOGPNSUKG6HiJDWeKKAYaW6eegHT_syDQj_YAsVnLQaAAsqzPh3fQWotvvOJCOLMenouCHQTfrmThq9Jqcmbk41svfiaGeAJMQYUX_z82CYLpgVkzcJJzQ66XQh7QOYt5jGV-VSjdYFhk3D3EOqBOtsfWUvTaPcqPqAccRudI9uv43Nv2nRca0NN7FgImMcOpaTqpMv7Zv8rV4dRVruO3j79NNmACtORoo40HIesY2TWmrNp-FFngGu_iUpPuqc6JEsfqauOshe3mLv-fNI72IR5SVYcDZZx2otgYJQz7yuJKbYKzE86-1Rx2KzpIizB6wqrBEt9sFFWUBj6iEiMC8LUZ4SUORy4L0k=w632-h842-no" width="200" height="266"><br><br>Who doesn’t love them??? I don’t care that they’re animated foxes. THEY’RE PRECIOUS. We all shipped it as children. You cannot deny this.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/KfN-BlKLGSd5M2iFseEzaS3FEuDp1o46a9gJdDJuwxANd19PDSyr6MQKyyWBIatxGO-XEwe_pW-6z21n7D_ZmYsvml8eQv313F3iI1m0WDGIe_-FSgynQxgg5yiVDmdJSouPJESjG3qk8DiZnrj7dLSUzbfL3Ttiw29VyK_o722rQ2EJ8S7uo7JtCdZAPg9D55v5js6CdQwjhpfb0FSIPYUzoW_wPdrr6-27uGW5lIhxCooAbKiP7SeuPxFJPaqE-TNHEX5kZ7uvcIvNaU3cUINoQauJ95fQlz98DmeAEGMOnq06_s94F3s74Ptw4USk07oQpNbvR0ZJzADwS_3VTorBrlhBLefBlHyy9BxY1ZrJZ8gePYueMi2HnfsT3EO8B-TccaQJ9AIl6V6JLR_X-90_ET-pBpAYBg1Ydl2ien-ZNlGiWmZAMT5tJXXKjwuNGb_zJz2zZNGB2KJW3zZ_0l7Gcep5_VlqwPpx7aMaRPy0LQcNEWkzJoKSwFb8weZFsMcEV3yk5wFKhs_4Ln8BEhY9YZ8nduY8xbvPPL5-gfa8Z3U9HxAbok6a1SWClz_uNg0Kq3Nk15_s4-20-rBdgPgnGekPMmVg-N7-eg08ucxlbCw5v8VaaBhvlP-v_J2FzMarWWe6nu1LMa_WIfznSqFaN6Yb1YkYZ4V9zyWyy0XECwWULb8n0xCiEnjHlnGIiEylqEfBMrBR6z61blx_YZy_=w500-h250-no" width="350" height="178"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Raspberry Chocolate<br></font><font size="6">{The forbidden-love OTP}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><font size="7"><strong><font size="6">Snow & Chayse</font><br></strong></font><font size="5"><em>Falling Snow<br></em><font size="4">(Part of the Five Poisoned Apples anthology)<br></font>by Skye Hoffert</font><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RjkZlHrhGQCHAtsk0a0s1R5smxUDdezWggR9-UD55CEnnr-51_U9gugJsqvypRCeSQDip-G0P4KtiKXNpC6JOxHB3gfQfRY7SyGrwWFP_LdGtRUBPhvXoCTbkHWHFkRSykfxZeWfoxSnoz-gu7_flW19DUq5cUOcFKsn0o4AsO2USIghMnviy2mRUE_iSJQFdMcnQApd6-BjaOsZDKYVaj1xCYMEN346qx1oRpTft9stjiifaX1CEH6uzxyKy-apbncxG1Erx6DPZekLpNp3rd7VomGpN3d1ZOW0zG6JxibfBF8AK7xPXv2H2fQTOyNBChJTwTxjeEGdiEHucTekxWiP6wjWk8RXBjlVjNKdwpihoIfoIxlGf_q8aUB_QtAUFzOBW5k5aTMawAwbmwcmJAjF5Y_OUjteYdqs5lkUU-52saoaKWBcfbhBd4uof87aeMA6oOGcojtagRVO-Prn13casWIBTeQnq6AiJsLwJjTKV9cEtUVB1VE-t2l0MlZDGiBv56DEMPah4wk0rmQDOIAztgU8nTaQ7YblHbjjMHAGgSjkHOaX3Lw1h7wx8Obj_hu42NJpeXHyurZOFNE9E-tK2IHaI07jAvYuCCPQ5cnWw1h8pb6mTmAgqEMnZyH52J2nsWNADAy_7iCWOSpGGkllcs8Zu7Pvg0Ccw9KZLOi_BsPcbhyGZWEkPcuVXOpszqnyjIqYo0a0EiLT6mhG6wl7=w180-h279-no" width="200" height="304"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Gonna try to avoid spoilers here, but but but<strong> Snow my precious broken girl and Chayse my also broken fae boy. There was like a billboard worth of reasons why they couldn’t be together and and and MY HEART.</strong> JUST BURY ME NOW I AM DONE FOR.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">White Chocolate<br></font><font size="6">{The odd OTP you still somehow manage to love}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="7"><font size="6">Iko & Kinney</font><br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Wires and Nerve </em>Graphic Novels<br>by Marissa Meyer</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hB9ZK3W5gcGnFWPcIxIFYaxy0xV0_J_B9NqdjnbaErQIJGyiG_z2ai7rOnufc1Z4mn4RcyHycJzolo5KuMPpCEeKB_sSIZhYWvEsvflW4QhWtpR3Admd5e31gYva3fyKrufsSUFlWXSXKyZmY3viOo6oS5VqfRCyyRY5-30IiYxPvEp2Aca8Q7rRAwX52eIKeHOVaGKeX24bczWQnoXsR2Ms34zJaz9-obt8jHWhkIY-wUXILY9UfkFss_lZaiGuK9alm7UpiZJPM6iaWndIyqnXsozegFXv3e7rtg08cpFLorGoPCvyGnsoOvOV9UAziaTyMRC53PrZz7vbnM04JuPrpY5wuvwNdF6xtnY1EzEEAmbLgtwjjY2fYQiiwQSwEXuZf-W_6pPlC-nGuzjU-FXrpy6SwbY_X1bG_O87-AIOOGJbOUt2vW_StkKOkotc1iMXUv8G1k9PwAdB0nRjoIvSq3GPxMTgs-rYW_NiClISWHs94CJMGu6Fg2o1zpTw_rMAhsqXSjvewStOSI1EJUurtiLah5VTvIr2wS-f4iUSNi5Vc8Y7kvDq89wJ0WLkdxZxJ0ZnpCmtYecGuHxL3BC7P1spzWoJ1pi48gspWIRxf60tr-DZxmO_LrzowjvoWYrg0oNzK8qEg3bFZQEZlVEqTDZ843gvkBhBr9wgoBgJbAFcoUxila_USEWfV9FfPwHZgmGiGofRQhktoay-erVy=w318-h446-no" width="200" height="278"><br><br><strong>This relationship is a little awkward because while Kinney is a human, Iko is, erm, an android. But but but their relationship was so funnnnn.</strong> Kinney is <em>such</em> a grump and prejudice against androids, while Iko, is, well, IKO. Carefree and spirited and a total romantic and YEAH. Watching her basically <em>force</em> Kinney to warm up to her with her never-give-up attitude was hilarious. I LOVED THEM OKAY.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Peanut Butter Chocolate<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP everybody and their sisters ship}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br></font><strong><font size="7"><font size="6">Westley & Buttercup</font><br></font></strong><font size="6"><font size="5"><em>The Princess Bride<br></em>by William Goldman<br></font></font>(book and film)<br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Q0_YtGnjacOEul7kpDQkaYjoalq6nsWSYw3bOAfNO-5rVEkRiRnpcuHO3XQp0CLHN2uVMX0kJbbYQfbX-_quqWL2j-mgi81ZCHC0_Pwfb2WggEHk5Zc7JlQYBFyKL-T-xnOee1XTIjuQA6W2FT7gqb1DFjMZ-uv0kD11qzgre4zRlsZXq-MB5AHYSEH7btNwtR8-35WBR4tYnn049hvTh-hTzKCY3a6P3muXosfYiKDlFJu2cpTZx7ayEiHUbESEUUdwn01Mjdwwo94KcGDjRgoPy90p0hExhr0xTq0Fjms7b26_RIp-gAYLLXUzFzIjB4ofs2c93Gvd9eUe5t4hV_ZOmMYSgnrcFlNu3c3l4l-QYcDFjbxbsaNsN7tC6Jf82ohjTgCBwqHqyHefBBr-g_9FGB8-ji32mfJnk8nAUZRa5dtVaR8xi--gkhbDGfM_Y6G-sB5YxU8TIK3enAnLakc9uoLquEbYO2JORgZYdkz5gsVVQWyufLEgx0EAYtObt7AA95yLZ_rs0EJ-Hhyjf6W_NrKlkGEQ5MkBWJZCTixqzRg2eInw85w_SGrZfQUWpdDJSJlgur2dBT8rep-Le5HHphocCqGlUDlxcEgAzbxzI2VY9fQezWfjDvzOdK0W1qQgsH93rRrXlhr4VMPwQkVLyYN57U7r-wkWK8C8yXtpvvPb7XBLu0taaLHI7FtWNqidnm2eM6-jj9YOx8frLOHh=w456-h718-no" width="200" height="313"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I don’t think I even need an explanation for this one. I mean, if you don’t ship this pirate and princess then what have you been doing with your whole life???</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/AX0WNHm-9rpMNxa9SP1pkDwLyQ9l7bMe6QMwrpeP9aRjkuGcrS9u35vHg_ACmghYjFWcxMQy_goNIhdi3I5YIJU36eTSd-IaSK2ymrrzJqFMiesGz8GyS62SWBgmrT2p7PqjJDPmFKNkU075QRi8W6WjiyqopwPIzJh4X2SLey7b8uOhrU15ybqMDTjPPdPfn6EBOzllqQAoFNWIOvmGlmn5uGafu7jiK_qkOGRA8guxsLM_IE-Hg8sb6onKSSYaH1nrTKWe94-EjP-Bq-SMduh8YdQzxcIPotUoTjvS57ZjZQuShLaJRIWlCVLhP15X9fZa53f28tZUcth4IG-QBYRCb6BU_z-BeeNI9EgAFp8uonC_ovSTx19ZTWIxvOmN3y9QViA4AbBOxGRZ6C2hwu1GwzP2g3KYaDfIwXjvbvmAOTAzsrcfEw9kFq0h8LlplfZcbABxNP8teQJC2DT5yh8ZR9WWP8VEtREQeZTvpnKzbnu9YgJe19bpdRtXayijCJdP7O2_nn58ouSzPOePLx20e9U32dfYnXno6vuc_GLQWq3CfPjrsE0rZYhcZEpxT3LBoZ9lVXcxESLhJKRoegNWSxLCMgkK3JbjDRBU3hejbSHent04yllMzHp4v_bAkqLmgM-5eBe-nO6ZSqylebzeiNHbXBy_IkS4WG5Pi_CodGW6LblsckjI7MnQGs0YvAZRqxag8x2gO_44UxaDcOBA=w288-h230-no" width="270" height="218"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">Cherry-Filled<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP that you fear no one knows about}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="6">Betsy & Joe<br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Betsy-Tacy </em>series<br>by Maud Hart Lovelace</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PhUa3KJvcTt-reiI9GxOpl0pmfn_rK8OJkX6bFd-ed-zvq02LOekCOtqF6l1jaA2Zo601hKOCOhcC18HBg6P200XkvsaZvWnfF8XmAECkwoQ9YnwQumD3Y34WjXmSUZ1thRg97-Ef-psv22Bc3cksZUMS--G0tcxBuDegDEQID6rQ4h8GKbTANQjJJST-K6Vpb6i3xVRieL3TsM2lIf-6g4TPFllwfCkzEucDJkV2o4HASAkylc4j0Px8bAB2EBAaCkImasEkIuQVh_1BS96_2bPttpN6B7ybVUhyvo4HxIS2FVgteknxXmMPzq4CndVAn-UspNipKO-EGYaXkMbniTeMCJYbx9GmzdMqzsIeJP49U4ktm_ti6XTzsNLINuPMMiKFDpZJrytCjz4PaIWBC4HIq0H4RT6VvvhOKOvp1T7V1c-ZpBDZXZ0HfAuBQrfuq2-m-hKJ2WaXbPkxjvZEp6_C8VEyaYAtd9alurKEtJuLhrsKr8ZZ2PUUh4R1i28y_yMGhnJHychozY0NIN32L_eH0WYxFVD9-p_nyaj4dzqiUgcLko8dGamKW_-wIAp1CqXILis2_19wr-CIyUqG4dy9xgnCOJRV79CubVTkC4jnX82ZSZfbNxo3URx1xd71J6j34PTa-8evXkOM9dYBfqICALtsz8kn6oV4Zi763oZ6sXmFYAJ-cV-aAsnbCsFzv6PUI8gu7tAtlrFfH1JkyG_=w318-h474-no" width="200" height="295"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This series, guys. This was my life before I turned 10 and discovered <em>The Hobbit</em> and <em>Lord of the Rings</em>. Okay, actually, it continued to be one of my favorite series through pre-teen and early teen days. I adored it. Still do.<strong> Betsy was basically me. An extroverted writer with big dreams. Then Joe comes on. Such a fun cinnamon roll. And I loved them. Their relationship was slow moving and sweet.</strong> These books had me shipping yeeeears before I had any clue what shipping was.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Unfortunately, I <em>never</em> see anyone talk about them. Was I the only one who grew up with these delightful stories??? Where is my <em>Betsy-Tacy </em>crew???</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Chocolate with Almond<br></font><font size="6">{The fun and nutty OTP}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="6">Lord Teddie & Bramble<br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Entwined <br></em>by Heather Dixon<br></font><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PNZ9tzeTuq26-VGF7eHUufXRuJtyburr4FGuCCursaTSYkDblGIzDtSHi1rT7tn3D_k9xITaf7lvXYaswcUFeChUh1fRRITcOeKzt_gV7k9VGz1i0Y_SrcMJLwkwvoYx2wdcIpIlGPGEfUfqyM8LSyeSqX9iRnVATEiBrinZT4CSD5eBbsVci-WbtdBhF8cLcC0a-wlWt1pSDH7Tx_NaAxNDiDQcfH1-fh0xMz-UuBbdEic2qEpRWydynqK8kB3EQB0co4wuztS5mj-_JPkwq8ihgBnCur0Ta88hGA1rE7lFmsYACQAB_lGNWCS2UDc-YCs3wM83iiBhdOLAmSAcebzj9M0QrFFafJewohmXKN2fLfH0NhpfEjoEcrgKt8Lx1qgQRgKhQVThcmy6JV-BTy-NgN-ZXPUY1l8DlN2w_NzvvahfC6c5pHdGAgQpWmnqxSntofbf9TobxL44u-1LkAxaSEzv34qFqntSK7Ld6f-Dh7lPYhB3OepVNqIp51zb9xL5ioZ_PRBMrvRiOPTd_yAphrK3YaKe4lquKf67sVs-Cu063ZSGE4B4d3lxwSvAQ8Z6JPYWDtTnpYZKa5vuBZrv-62iR35-8V6OyHsAUq7FEsshKwRTJr6_51o2EaU2WKETZlK2iLoMYqZ_uXQS1w7spy3jjhrpE-gT2UFiJJe6fTrsi0WLYcX_vraGQNqTYDyDe8-vxYmQ6msgWy6maVX7=w314-h475-no" width="200" height="299"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Cheerful, proper Lord Teddie and rambunctious, mischievous Bramble were <em>such</em> an unexpected, hilarious pair.</strong> Their interactions had be hiccupping with laughter. Bramble has such a temper, and Teddie only wants to please in his awkward, happy manner. Brb while I go SHIP THEM FOREVER.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Chocolate with Coconut<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP who came from different backgrounds}</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="4"></font> </p>
<p align="center"><font size="7"><strong><font size="6">The Doctor & Rose</font><br></strong></font><font size="5"><em>Doctor Who<br></em>BBC Television Series</font><font size="4"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4_VNtGbFRR8gs0W41LT1dXy7GD3lIpJWLfG8aM3Ngcwkc5LELelp95gXjCsyfDL96tq1ZKbO8cWQjhTtYJVNn2BPaU_b4xeByDoCu-1t13s0edBPnIebJsfBwf6DLLiQP7unSHc_nrFMsmb4FBxvkqiwCNi-dQFbTyxmpfJcu9S9CsdvUeZVxaBlHSZM60s1rCim1V1epNsp1u1-KwVZQUwEbUP84l2Q1qtd9Y-jG-_zcTMZm6tyFMTdqYg2MZnDN2lBzgAPT2GgmE1YLx92-fNquZR1jC4wNBBY17TMiMVatQB_qtCc7uP7STWuPqpyzAFsBHUMtq91oOSgSBHK0D0DNoeMhqBD7nUKNHvoQba7SmzugBAgyRYmU44-ZLr_qVPanatuo3IWuMhlxkh6F9fOb5vRT4G9jY3iLX6jUIxp4TOStLFaVwEGXYLeFDL3MNzrSCHBto99-o-IYTuNA2uojrUqi1Zr9Wz5cVL9mxk0M83s64xs34Bt7QEnWV1jpUoG86qr5mwUq9yYkFBKNWKn2Y87wU5McpRCoKSlYe8_xomJL9YWDgf6w02ql5LErN-Wme_mqs3CLe5uSdGCZFLPXESMjLiDaoS51-ecgjdtOBbDj0ZirbOf7jNT4kvi3enkuB2JNKRjljrF09dGJ_g1DSG8xJHDiH7ajQ7HhrVi6rFH-qytI9KwKVVZwrzELVLQNZDUlWcDy7_TwLA9wnvv=w300-h450-no" width="200" height="297"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Eheheheh. <strong>The Doctor is a 900-year-old alien with two hearts who can travel through time, while Rose is a 19-year-old girl from London who works in a shop.</strong> One can say their backgrounds are a smiiiidge different. But we ship them anyway because WE CAN’T HELP IT.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aQVNk0gxMyIajU_ZuGANmYpcVqNc1h_7Xpo-qBsb-sij57x--unzR5jNHklybRUfMYCSQzD5AibohJ1TkfVxjkmE_30QlCNdXSejM0Go2VwssQEF6Hat5fRZEz4IMQISoVZ9OKY69rjo3X9PijQTz76UPwNMEvMWuCTuI1fHZv3ixU6tWT80xEQs1JNBBWWv9oIY8UzsTvwHoYsET_R6xTroGb6H3ubghR9KlPthpYltjv-tZ9JbJKLQhy7dWdJK4ntLbOpYmHBs-SVz6EedToCqzKv-MT55OVyaIzMYNPNduMym9KcT-NQrYPK1pICWlP4iQy7sjuC_eFT-8NDHJT_snh_dWTGBn3JMH68n0fcDZaCyzY7p0yvEP2QGJDYCWl9JCrY6yiD7NG1z-BBX6U7mawPxvwI3Xrb6sNwkokOm3GUMtt9RaDH1scKR_h4MT6r2eCKc_5TbcpN8gG9nYHNJXMUbAjSOljH5Xt04OR5u15q50HKoQJcxe9drjxaHF1Z0_Eg2KdyrBCLCcajM_ZWY6itEEnXSUomN7I1M1n6ErrCs54SyLUtwF3aOEhEBa_nKDVqAVLX6jnMR_1f4WOLrWue0mcApE8eZ-MxbFDvTNf8MVoYiY1L30msY3M9MS35vPkNTBlWrdJDlqHpQRJO7tl7w_Zxmozoe8g7ep1iA7nJqULpWx3QZZWRKcV-berP_XX3ERDiJwwvy8-9KjMtw=w500-h263-no" width="350" height="187"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Mint Chocolate<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP you'll love until you die}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="6">Cress & Thorne<br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>The Lunar Chronicles<br></em>by Marissa Meyer</font><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/83QNFsFqRKzOh-6SOldq26-vTLLa5c4jW00HMdNKIOGXdEof8GzJA605a-vQUVaCfu9ppRLlaMHGbJrf4sgD3tbbB2-8UxtodYfoVQIBuBh7Pw3BbQARrseRK4Vyl3aWOsb7E07xdsGe2_-aC3eR6pP52yrqsVFn7ex5FPczWfVx8GpGP30JjJjjCMPhPluuyfnjdD8HzrMdR5REfuWBcRznP9R5FdH-Zmd3f0wdZ6hKd8NuTSYNwVVVznUhZ4-xisnD8CeL0ID7BjOJ2GComc9hHqg1y-jDgwuJQ6gQ0GozOFYK-Ufg8e1gDlc7WeUO8v7WF-qWqCFjfwL7eYmb36V4p1ZWil013hm8HG-CkUZ3wSw2wn9PcSN1WALX2246Z7ZaRtxiTyJJYEkCwGWlAS9g9nH6rtkMxY9SqJOkIy7RGApth5M2ohKC-lnPuH_pzDpYY_kL0gJtIHptgv_DW0S2chwDeB6nkoeCV3XQMeryVSralqE9sKnXpH4fWXY-6W8R_s1e85bbb-y_4wLtD5OgPhu1rP96S3trJl-MEPpgGyTIJjYr_pdiJnhBmfSVWKZau26WWfmvAssZwIJBLNUvdrD4Nd6Ep2TUsevR9AB5eLygs51qz57E2q4N5ADhhtODPHt7Z_SWqZCuU24XMqTb-CUhoo7ghKyBM8v6GP-jhkNTNBcAucqZkQH8kLJ2UWzq4YGzcUlW92RfJTt7yohD=w315-h475-no" width="200" height="298"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="3">(If you’re shocked I didn’t put Howl and Sophie here, don’t worry. They’re coming. <font size="2">*winks*</font>)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>MY PRECIOUSESSSS. <strong>Cress is all shy and awkward and a hopeless romantic, while Thorne is suave and charismatic and cocky. And this just happens to be one of my TOP favorite types of ships ever.</strong> Seeing Thorne’s heart of gold come out of hiding when he’s around Cress, and her adorable infatuation of him just just just…I CAN’T. I WILL BE FLAILING ABOUT THEM TO MY GRAVE.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">SECONDS SET</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Orange Crème<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP you never expected to love}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><font size="7"><strong><font size="6">Red as Blood Couple</font><br></strong></font><font size="5"><em>Red as Blood</em> <br><font size="4">(Part of the Five Poisoned Apples anthology)</font><br>by Maddie Morrow</font><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3gKRa0hTK4lzhredjUrbWx8nmpBUa8NdrxtbCLnlOMl3v9JSUOltZky2jXQuNzKO5P9s1XJ3vjt3p9eJtqmE9lT--I7GHVHhZrkwTajrWhUslhsyjpKoLSRChj0OQp-t1UlPhQwMJddy_8S-4YfWUtwXI6nHTljK4DgYJ9XOXfKNgycgUyyegMR7wG7m9R7185Aiis7JKsdfv7Stewi8LlNiN8c4l5-n7Unjvy1ubIhswSZ1H2U6Dl1QUHgjVDviAHbswQ-Vu3HY_mXYsnKTx07leZCVXjazspLz_dZMv28TFQVeuRlJR1R-0fsL-YK-dstp3GsAfzO_dXEsKUIbeqiuUOLwK1aPrnv-Q7tTKcBQ4swZIwXfuAIJwN4zLz_fYVi-pXXPHNBBSICzBDIHGBH2BxuV0ix6hWOWRyT9U62ujozHr-n_tTl7ffQO9DW9JoeUBdV9UfwegPz7klmOxuugEXZff74u98l1xhHMIb7rCcU8J025FELDjnIrZr7M5onn3vqNhFXzqvSuV_yjx2LDWwcFw3g0itv55WmtPn1VmanBNg0EBbtsinHsLNG0oqZxn9fK6CBwEmiIUFrslitb5nZ5Hoo5RQIcxt7KK-o4RNyB2d0kv277RVRZSRRb-5V1tMzO8XMeC7YcMMshjtRigSitoUDZZjYYgfCFjocG0uw6EkjdNPJsHN8kGudSVZQHYY1utD61rA7p8psSSExU=w594-h915-no" width="200" height="306"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Okay so I’m not mentioning any names because that’d be HUGE spoilers. <strong>But, let’s just say a couple that formed in this novella took me by surprise but in THE BEST WAY.</strong> By the end of the story I was <em>totally</em> on board the ship. It was so unexpected and fun! Of course, now you’re going to have to read the story to find out what I’m talking about. Bwahaha.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Salted Caramel<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP who worked the most on their relationship}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="7"><font size="6">Billy & Bonnie</font><br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Dragons in Our Midst/Oracles of Fire </em>series<br>by Bryan Davis</font><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/__zoatOB-VES2ZVF0AZKvMFPZvvm1vkbOC10QcJO6YgkdrG6efH9TFKCm1aLKhY35dNKhy-6nlqNgPl8WkwPBekROUmWVer9SQvcLQqEs0IjRO4v8qvA0gw_tovWcjZz5iXROvsgCGt0cXujwoi8CkMV5wJYstP5geVQMsiVc_W1U1H7jFAiYWk64PLki7_eqrPmH2QlsZITOBgA5MWuXhjD-dQBtxA7tTcdRNBPyIu0wEaC2LWi4FnASC9m-rptH7vOy9L1RDxb8wEfxv9AOPaRLs-XHrGvoe6EgCgn0lD0_rBa98KZlOSH85ysNx-qQJU4Ns-p-aitv2ywSfSjl0homeofhtPhDvegm8DKa9dPLJ0fUB_SEQuyDTKF6LoxtCtqOrQKqA9KFbosM6VX9Nh0JOMgmz8XYEKSYxpCjVEHFYc66tESfyiULJwE-36IbXJSf5dsAffkAXCbdY9XiXpdFLR6GNH23jxp_yXF0zKXqlKUm9VVjMUI4SJ-8a4VcxzzXYetFUtWZaxhCAZoBNLwL2ZznBcZ3RQ3uSPbwQPrXGS7PbtBbsmIwMEXlt1OWhwQJlpwuWlOC7idlL17i_cMMwS4VEMCwppK9U1zLzcP4OZEQ6IWkLeIZIGQOfP6v5I_PcxBSuzsKiJ4Qv5pS4uEtcksv_MXzAdn_PHA9Mstirao0SQ34izABeYZUStokCZY5kowkOUCiyiBr25HeEE0=w528-h800-no" width="200" height="301"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This was another hard one. I kept thinking of so many couples who had to <em>fight</em> for their relationship. <strong>But I finally had to go with my sweet Billy and Bonnie. These two not only had to fight dragon slayers, corrupt dragons, amongst dozens of other psychotic villains, but also travel through different worlds, <em>and</em> fight for their love on a spiritual level too.</strong> They went through years, <em>YEARS</em>, of fighting for each other and to be together. And just… *wipes tear from eye* MY SWEET CHILDREN. Theirs was such a beautiful love story.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Chocolate Covered Raisins<br></font><font size="6">{The young OTP you <strike>know</strike> hope will work out one day}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br></font><font size="7"><strong><font size="6">Mike & Eleven</font><br></strong></font><font size="5"><em>Stranger Things<br></em>Netflix series</font><font size="4"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FYIfuFR3wMaju10CNTqF84PWbwnILBKREp5ntRNFXYWaHIv2I_HepPUmcNmjLjYuRiKiGmRFF6sfEzGrGZkkqpk13imZ-74-PGwOZ8oYzIu1ft0PxQPT-ojsQwsR9Pxgr72Y_R4hZTs3h9MDkFUHFkTBtO-SvhUDBkgNeoAklmNx5B8VGyJ5ZyIpbGzGbX-U245u_pye7aKuDddCrGg_v1VibwZmTD7kERrXrOhRXBggZ-6Z3k7bfcbObaxiyWa-Q9f5f4WuX8q1lUdI1EJuorIdwyb767rthl6OKAmSXphE9Zs0yDZeO0Ay9ycmxOun92YP6FdLUFgpUn4tgs9gPkH1rBL26AuXGggMGX6j_3FAxoFkxOxx7NgDoCJ18iqh1azcXrRV2FnOnxGfpcPTY1I4VtZBKX7dqbJRna3tct8cEt5OdydDJf5k2LgoAzgqdyb_OxG6f6zsEFm7PsDPiHMiBkRzrJUgYftIqu3xbLlgMeD2QoRz--yC5mkxKB9sC5segStGyF-00_IhqIE3y_30lvA1jugDRi6Eaz_GDsRaBZnULXIzhUiXzCGYx9IWYXd_urxsH20sWwEvRXitKAUNwTtCBFn2zL3upinLzopYpiBJQAHbLJBJ5HeI9ssIDDrMJpuleMDVU65VViHBXtTt-5SF0gm_LlV8eR1AX3Q4hjtsjTVlxh-wOF2_iOiF3KM1nztNOi7c1BRa4e11VxJV=w367-h550-no" width="200" height="297"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Notice how I changed the question up there because I HAVE NO IDEA IF THEY’LL WORK OUT. The way these show writers treat their characters chances are <em>nothing</em> will work out. <strong>I just want my little bby children to be happy. Is that too much to ask???</strong></p><strong>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QhoMD-fZ1qbOsPt8snq4EjQquMrOINyY3r61iccpzwjtfBQTpwuBx-cWCoOVV2k0RBj7jGGk_AppnbG3H3iRoHREYU99FbPMh3XHRNnFOUKucLfToCUbjNjVRv00J9_pzqzFEPFO59WOfF6Zgr88rnZvWP9hMEmj1Eexdg7wgPKrYxxKK-tc78soMnxFYjM3Gnj2_dhfll22kQLecgXzV4Eyul0x87A9UgAOkyyypg1Sby5kNKFYejUea8cDhNK1K-QSnwtz4FFUj93WwZvC1TpICgdjkhKMk0HjjFFSosqEVY_nH5EYiM-aOK3L8y43QKkOuqBCNwjCmEO4tdIkzZBS1JD53c1WDGuQQ8JKWX8rTgLzi6UP1GwbQw0E1cXu7BSCLasGIhNmDe_MSuHRjUfMuzViYzGBo0FJI2swknh34NPSJLfAQSe5uS1TQYNmOKV0uVNYADReIBzvVbErW5g9mglFJlF0LEarSlj9dSTaydiIFHK31BN5tlF5NJIUXOGIHew_RgcqqSfs37sSu0yvj6nVr-Y0F0BjZJjDTYEmYOpYzTZhDTuo6Wv0ag2qVqxds-wXqmMzeCSzf7HgCrQxZ4pR0yqu-T12sMGCGL26xsY1coTf54UQGJcLMdZe89mzMjNC0bp3_dGJ4y--FsNCwHTmpVaBH1eQ2wram-Bb7W_eCXvbTLiHouOU1jAx47lqCV8r1vzUCmlS51OIizr7=w500-h221-no" width="350" height="158"></strong><font size="3">Please stop hurting these bbs!</font><br></p>
<p align="justify">(<strong>Disclaimer:</strong> <em>Stranger Things</em> is more or less a horror show and can get very gruesome and dark. It also has an immense amount of language, unfortunately, so I can’t recommend it to everyone.)</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Chocolate Jalapeño<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP that can't be together but you ship it anyways}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="7"><font size="6">Neville & Luna</font><br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Harry Potter </em>series<br>by J.K. Rowling</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ioUpo-BSGe6YPAmgUzdC6yONOEX_Ll5ejY6bNyaeG_ozDlbdVk373MtzKopZbe7jjl7gmncH70RnQUcrnrvibN8apt_w5nQKfuGmEwOkFuX95wnbJ00129EccA3A7ZsoLxq7Bb4Eu3DsjKkfeDUiBx0FbUp2JJdmlCNuniH-4-Vcl42zcCTAKwJhGSMPfq7Q-Vb57dGHtB_rZozjA0uJToffTDkVyC2IJdETeMJrUEMmxg4iuVALsAOVDM0ocbgPgtVjc-7b7nuaWq9CasT60FdeBrir5FlWbH-NXbNTWpzA4w-jnZ3EkQfNLK9ErJbmWX6ghSD4HuVU_VWp7MbGb5JfSQMe8mSmB4puvs0A3Nk9QSTRQM-2sdQZpC8D5esJ0x12S23V7MUFi2ilK2gkQuyNoYiXASVayagM1mPiuUS8-oU10F1zryI5-iuxYUNk5WWnRl1iyFkf08wQ2LKKv8IzBUV49kvQTvCrPImuBaAXfiO28_8CLo5-hqnhFtYbgQrCzFwInwzYCon2wMgMAqIWZYySggWoXpF2-xr3p78oS52AH8b_DQ0Usm4fgc1PfIvM5LYyXu-ISuqAXGmBOL7Gwl5jJXMa9GGppngVj5YzpocXeJ0WevFBE0mh0wlQZAlncg46u2DBSmoMEYHT3Ds79r7OpPpzfeHnBvYqtpmcRmKhhVb6IbOjDLZhh-RdeBurp7V3OXqHJsoYkUNuzyMi=w318-h475-no" width="200" height="296"><br><br>Hello, yes. <strong>I adore Neville and Luna with all my heart and soul. And I think they’d be the sweetest cinnamon roll couple to ever exist. But apparently it’s not canon that they get together???</strong> And I AM NOT OKAY WITH THIS. THEY WOULD BE PERFECT.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I refuse to accept whatever the actual canon is because Luneville is perfection and I will GO DOWN WITH THE SHIP.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hI7BFytbnmYsQnDU3i6jeySEhL6z3ElCm1zTb3btFRPIGjrQj5vt_yHB9C50RnL2wUQjf_rcA3QIDnWvP8125YAEu66xBNqmEMutbfMvnnsiTS7vOZpDAfsNxZESgPJKpQOEKqOdb57AL144QC3IZvdEOprzj34HXtopFZ2vEd3aKZv8o8pajx0uKSX3_YmJpM9nu5x3mlaOSGUZyrujSER8uVjeyH-Ng76kxfEGxMgiCGHuY7YzappOBQv0DIUQcMr1Lmnq3DOwwFJQAdMh2-KbpsU1Fe3Xkugf9tBt2d5w4lcr1KNilVNE6ywOegcWf2IScsLDE8f2Z3_y4zks9KFN2xhfD8u2ktiRI3Yh7STiEG9Y_5k133bMsozxCxUtXSa5e9bPEEORz3E2GqHWpU7AC8f6-ePBCrsiclWORjIKdgGUuWMvy5NpW3VvJDrpbXhqD6uw3ttb32OtXbG1iVoCNeqxxVuxADgpgW1IEzaw_zENzxr8EepxWOAJUqqzJBmI6Fj4jQh6jZYaSMCNmJGCak211CtkbIXVpTbMg03ktzdO6uy09NczUM3PVlmB8KwJbLwVV6lgXxfC7yOM1RIBbEsdMmEz_Eo2Z8tN9d82U24PMxnVdNRaIcIHYc1dYvVZU9mToOMq_FfUmnXx4i6x40wIcq3W1W3yzwmDovDwViv3Tk-Z0R789rmDuvaohzzRwgwNewOuKcN0iHhE3R_R=w500-h211-no" width="350" height="151"><font size="2">YOU CANNOT TELL ME THEY’RE NOT PERFECT MS. ROWLING.</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Ferrero Rocher<br></font><font size="6">{The best dressed/best looking OTP}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="6">Ella & Kit<br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Cinderella<br></em>Disney 2015 Film</font><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zSwG6YutWntBGdUljjJrNF7Iw6PUkp4w8XUEV5Mks4bEXbd-7CXKoRkTQj35NfXPuWzprEDq-bWLIPKQXZU7epXNtwY6oTFlZALy4_i9k94YRvrU4CyLHqEk_uh8Msr6jOQjcK4skISe27NwB235peWZhbsmuMIPNTkcUh-my02Q0Ju7jRNt3huJdG5JhYMMmt_ttmhxn7c2gKPirH4j5Haa-kPnUD5gWBLKIYDL-YMfqfny08WSA3CA43Nh-gu4beB8wXsv9IUlg-NvIhx6dPdHUA1DAwNMwSji7YlNu9mdkEpJ-YYApi7NWViZvxcctynZR-ePoe2fBVXhGyF5GbiP3GQZ5hWSek2Hrvqc7f73JcgEH-QHxD_Octhw2_FeS8CyaUpo0ldonVrVwQWU_MlTlEY6pi7ptPBr_DDDrPBa7QoLZcnfepZ6IPqAJ3dm4iN-JwyWUxOJU8O2sE0gZE1pJ_2P1fMfe0Bu7HCrZvbb4iodTV8RVUScJNCUsSO4rk0VFxG1Min_iRcpS3v0HRbs-J5Wd3QJj8b7-0DXj3iD_x17cNl1M9rPCnSeBLtci4eSQxPdyhLh5A6ftIhMmvjiI1mNCAmRZJ-3OIAGVjwpKu-f1_-7epz1LcM4Grb-1C8-TN29TbNOulV09m_0qu7oWDYsod2bTF10xuJeJluaelbCasFgjud2jJB-69JTyE8wVPnHBX-qCRnlftGhJw7P=w618-h915-no" width="200" height="295"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I mean just LOOK AT THEM.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/DjT4opEDFJ2sMXIyrHXxRPBvvFfHLqRMhOUy1TQQyb6i4wA4vzGUFebcJRMhsGqM94Nv1D9StrpwVa1JH0nnR0-tl1pB6Pj72VL7Er7Mb9Gal7rjDxrgft8FeL0pI636qOSUCjPn_Nl9CRSYMSp-GVCzOfA8ifUVuUckrP_V5nPHBHqmVmDrHkpwJRvKNDk5TnuXYd8chS3vxaTyrUmdm8D3n5jKD98P3J_UBjtP-utH3bdMaIRZb_SM9nrbs4GwSz5KoWbw8E6UZMjL6zTYGynpHCTZRYkvCfK1BDFEr5mHn7IiuchnhgxiL2aV9_W5iSKNC8KFDM4rI21htFqvFW0VuONFAeR1kXIbE3ZIRLfRqqKaeMeyvJOjblRWGB28K7-IGNACLkXnk43mWE64sI8JZ8AqUM4uyqYRt1eh7bY_Cp53q9YRAkh6JgsjntvyBIz8KtxSrn2l5No5Gdj1d6kbLlBvQWU7oYOb3nobtkYt6vSG-CntQ7DyNL5onEM2xs0EBxFYj_vmfD-n_WMDfXe1BNh7H_im3WTjGnZusxzWZomIxb3PhKMBJqmsNyRvasoeEFDpCeRihERPZ2DSMknuLXTRujFeQAyqHCpN9iD68gijjRIrmu3xzqY73tRxhE5NI9-pnwiF-o92MIaLljvzneqZ-CbZmPjker_nQJUCLT5YdgCdJb3TBXuOvJ-HpMVMoDn3JDYoHTA_7iIQmRWW=w500-h213-no" width="350" height="153"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Chocolate Covered Coffee Bean<br></font><font size="6">{The energetic OTP that keeps you on your toes}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br></font><font size="6"><strong>Crispin & Molly<br></strong></font><font size="5"><em>Beaumont and Beasley </em>series<br>by Kyle Robert Shultz</font><font size="4"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UgN4o7MlriU2wQwG0etwImglF5IFZl6dGIToWqf_cmuWEYAdathBu8iC1liFsz1zeSHW43rIvXej3nZMSNS4oone7W3e44MSR8ZAjmR_H9e2zDhoYbG0PuP3zytADGTLqPA7evAdzauKzT4OsZTZC3UWM-z2chg04J_sWzm-fZMWEY69RxAFuZgiNA7ts4yzKlI6OWXm1-uPLNlxmojuR9J28Nuo5Y6AxZuxVMg0p7bAV6WUYbYZyVcK0Xd0YY_0WoQTV47VfGFBRj41ty6nfzrfbA8JPER62VFQTZY0lWmHfNwrvB1ALHH7klwbOyv22hgE_DXeIurVpBF72jB1q2wQ7Mhb0YAfrszBYJ9P9DnbBFh5k9tZtcFU1PyIuVOUXwLicMWOuZSX_zBtIRyu7o47GFJWtJWm3EGk3xybqpVRa8WSvbjjy12GMiol4Kicq1UNCBHbX46QMctETY0LwmPSC2n7CZfJ57CB-tMjoG8psMXSZwch6Kk5zLZ1ZilhI-pNdhyvr1lfPPiq52k8zpk44HidVLWHU5Po5k8Kg_IUhW6UjQsyHfj7sDfzCQTwc7dB5ai0jReYB1Y6OcdCOxRNMtxTYLsYhkXEAicxeyBBs_U6F4ENnNygCaAEED-DPOR7wn7CWIMnvGaLli1O04TQ-FG4iTcr65DVvPeMEiRHM-k25oT7U-DfvfuDboM9dBPmGo41gCbmMZDz45qrbTIM=w297-h475-no" width="200" height="316"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>These two! Crispin, my boy, is a ball of energy. Something akin to a five-year-old on an endless supply of sugar. While Molly is a total sweetheart who’s always looking to aid the Beaumont and Beasley team but, erm, her wacky ideas aren’t always <em>helpful.</em> We love her for it though. <strong>Her and Crispin are great together. And by great I mean hilarious mishaps follow them wherever they go. </strong>Actual hyper puppies. <3</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">Chocolate Dipped Strawberry<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP that's just absolutely adorable}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="7"><font size="6">Ginny & Halcyon</font><br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Paper Crowns<br></em>by Mirriam Neal<br></font><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I7bwVx688fCAJrFxXAkjcpuX9bRWYXXQAkV-167VM_o--w8pB9x0RMDGLutlTsKmV2dBqOWVvI0tJDHHUzLAY7e7S67NAWtoHB8DeHntAGjrFsbMCJPX2pUMFolTO3SJYClcMlLh3ji8NVKl_RG3IuYH-YzYk0zDQy_qaSEV5F1n16zO-W2p2HtJFsSF2HEDHfIBbtpEO90-yQZHfw6BY-emVbaevd8jwJBO-y_yELM0soMCHjdsqAxiwlga0GbVFqOwkQKUvhxRcnn2XDM9TREedson5qMN-IZ5UXl1ybgJZbbr1Gzwk2HP9CXSbgwO0UwXh051mjV_nx9he6k4k0psUd5NzmD-j1E5BXBftKsTFiCXxv8Yefd0nOkzsFOjHE4ziR2vOO6thG4qmnR6NHonQfbpWsV7SmCwa3hQZ-q8B2GihdLIF5JRDMD8D76RdfmTcO-mJ62pywLwjzlrYsJ9Tfzf5EUpsNxEGiVw9RETr4T5eCSfijhWXRb1-1OVExLkJQ4ovyJ1c71SrPPa49Lzh94zXAFT2HWYN_649YwNvewjdk2XmuEfavCtHupoNDpJ1qY6Q0QyuL8ahBpbWPzmr2lreHpO9p3XgVB4AaJP03NJW2kBF_ajemrlgxUfaOffvROIQGWcH7_jhNNPHAIRjXA7GoyrdWavoBPoBesxiSh4koG8JIuO_9YYHW-bbW2lEMvzCGeQQ-8YdBZygFGB=w313-h475-no" width="200" height="300"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I feel like I haven’t talked about this book in a while and THAT NEEDS TO BE REMEDIED. Not only is it one of the most whimsical, delightful reads of all time, THE CHARACTERSSS. <strong>Ginny is sweet and awkward and a little innocent, but strong when she needs to be. Halcyon is sarcastic and protective and enigmatic. Oh, and he also shapeshifts into a CAT. SO THERE’S THAT. They’re precious together.</strong> ABSOLUTELY PRECIOUS.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Chocolate with Nougat<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP full of fluff and nonsense}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="6">Shawn & Juliet<br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Psych<br></em>USA Television Series</font><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kodzlQN-XO7GqRaKSYpf0lBK1YG_kFjniFg290WkwZTnkYFDMdShFFUMkd7o67EY-TYANULVZcZdfsid2u4y2snm3SyOrA0MV4XaGWOIvTnHcgvKdq33QoTnA6JCxVlAjvbOm44Xh0MszVgtE7EfkHUlRfoFSiW1UhynwUjhQkwBYRhoWvt8QIUNo-xtiu99CYL2VgdZEsdMgVaCOfy6xGtQPfyP0Bu6CnNen82QYthMTKpzue1j6zcSxXyP3ioPbaaEYmTdvGp0Vj1KD6_7d7CcFAdAFqt_d1NiQAqrAxyyGvfSHlF2VmVzM0bXOW_nBP4NbD1QP9mtSaEcwvO38XIOS8uauMDzqyNLC_qh0Y-0hOxo97L3zgg8Cb-aBc8jPwvBp1v_yz7socw768e_t-hMhQSneVQz4OndyCH0ZXAcyPA5zQaIgZDCsvpIY_06Mkxi3lX1vYpDJbAffuWAYx3mcNkXE4Yi5WqocSu3x97ySp_cJKeQNkICrkfbrOVBRLuJ6YMmHCN0uYfgaBNjPe12wn7tQDcJ1rTWoc62toSIf_ovpiHtjpW_zikOGaq71Vi3F9C5xwaFx43WsHTTD654QVYONA2HTt6MRLVKZYAM5KASSkpxiOKVlGwNN6b-UB65AdA1Snb6o7TYLOQNx4Hxx__Yg4oFURyAl6n9kLMwdA0wfuoatHiFkY2Qg0-jOufdKHUVfHvx_ELUnfKhbLZ7=w314-h445-no" width="200" height="281"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Okay, Shawn is the one mostly full of nonsense, but Juliet has her moments for sure. I love how Juliet totally goes with Shawn’s constant absurd ideas, and can speak fluently in moviequote-ese, as that’s Shawn’s favorite form of communication. And Shawn’s love for his “Jules” is <em>everything.</em></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Such fluff. Such nonsense.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-to1-esb44s8HrYBTGyPkCJnFOSplgLzyvr-Tmr-yp6AJhNr_sbDvZTZOLYX71ithd6DPdzgbdNeU5UU7LgmObzRn6mO0iNni-E2G4jAMmFxPpEOFvoCxYbd-sQgDGENJfocqHH20tbbiS1iCOisWJ8xZa5aaRyAMnbFRm8NtNhjhnNFpkUcOHVGQwlBoBOCZEz_OfuiTPSWuJT2FoPoYdf8BCBlh1hnd_enS9sjvHW8x51GeN2fwhUnL50i1Fe3vqalp4l8RVAK1mWU0UNjE5w5VRrpanKZ7dZBJk_EN7KEVuVRdW9240oqQtlDXfrBOWVrxxFm8Hs_BrK4MRZ7L2-zCtVmm_OniseewBpwsVts5errXRBPhVgHjvCtku5Hsy_ZG19uMi3YLQux_yDuJSuGN24qXwj_ei5oPMrKH-Fh4ojPfO72UOAgsjeq_4XrIWcPsmOPaN4GB10__-YXIlv0VD8hcsV3BLC-GE3lsfHPXSoo_xL3InbAHIQ-mySivoW4Ty8ixDxBAymEl3FAeks4MPa2vpdoebuvHUzlDXO3m9FeD1eAdS1jMPsHIMxmfStOymQJx-_7hewl5va87cKRInwMtmbz9tI6XhqTP5RcQjJ5IcTsbyOps8UBEDmJLd4bvM9wshVagiEIFXoyLlyt55ok7ulLkx1pL9jLuDuG4OkG7OOkPFNd2p20x--Bp4cddrok2zAUtaIqWvwn2EM2=w245-h160-no" width="350" height="234"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">(<strong>Disclaimer: </strong>This is another show with some language and the occasional other meh content. Some episodes are fine, some are not, so be warned.)</p>
<p align="center"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font><font size="7">Chocolate with Walnuts<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP with the bumpiest relationship}</font><font size="4"> </p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="7"><strong><font size="6">Rumple & Belle</font><br></strong></font><font size="5"><em>Once Upon a Time<br></em>ABC Television Series</font><br><br></p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jQEdjNkxEHwCAu6b-zxNuw8cqZmhwUQUGJaeQmfob6Lpj_CHygVTBEhSlsp6tZovPudLnLu0f8nMhRjRqIv7AGkxq3xdQrM4NkI_7C0hEyiwC3_-Gz8homaj4Ux6-hqbZ95ETDNKGMwOFa-idtQEgJ-kX-O1gqJc7rQ-Sv-A1VXsk5hBmx4oi7Io2wAhzpHHkiyiuawx98DEBuLgP_EvqkpjFWRdHPUIdf9f1QB--GFwAVCIk90v0d8J0S5LBcDUWWIOIOGdWeHPPAZUKTkfcIub7qKo8c6E0kiTxR4nKmPl7eHuRjDzuO8TV_TUBO9bIBnm_bCQmCphoB6UTxO0FOSkKrspEptM1lHrIjS32mmn80u52Pbe9iXuP9WPZDORQ9Vj4dd9CEvH25ukj098gJ4eqz1OutSS46cweLMDD7ZdZh8CvBsutdd8QBz50SWQdSTAzSOWDIDhs54BMoCGyS4U_PuP-9wAeRLZHcmZI5U5Q3Yk-OnwuFYTXYVfrE6mbV3su2DxjgLzP8QisXDsFaMe8aTrargmVHDejnFItxmjjWbRujr85LbpIuBdYaWsjHmO1zfDLp212iM-WEAQ_AztWkJ8rxob2Y_sUhiDIwmxYTxop-RImcjMAGl7nP2vCxfv21T0_F84fRZgbrVEK5eSi_EdRERFHSv9WtCLuTckwN505qegK9oHrN6GH0adTB_00qL0Jnx7xFs7dcL-sErZ=w623-h915-no" width="200" height="293">
<p align="justify"><br><strong>The prime couple of “Oh The Pain”.</strong> Rumple and Belle are the Beauty and the Beast characters of this show, and, of course, most B&B relationships are strenuous. But UGH. <strong>We go through SEVEN SEASONS of back-and-forth relationship drama between these two.</strong> Don’t mind me, I’m just sitting over here with A THOUSAND KNIVES IN MY HEART. Can we just live happily ever after for once? PLEASE???</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/y6KGcKNALdVX53puk8XaetXKFcx2kDRYPccHEqg8bOdvnfrwlG2el3CMIx1hCWlkq-GIa9C3aZdGM6-oiL9cRcBzZ-WrAeUPBcBmzXtj3sCX_oTdaGcSeAV3wP0OjukaCirx310y5ZschP3byGnZD4B_O9jv0VcaWcNPe0CDDMM_OUvI71Zfsby8n5ZFCC2Pt21uozI2GizvGHdwZPsxKXaxKAP7ZWGbAUgDUKFLCG_el8q-APdBwP1HNLmJLENIrs3B3jwziXlWGo0DUNcwJfNmU4Qd8K1Pz7WlXTW4UjRDnn36QrI2MgMLfpg2Z-VK-tx0hQSibVmMIvpLQHB95lzWAA4k6vFJEs-c8BtZbA7bLsTyGBsBbuTxGeE1HvwOv-p4K97p-6K4zMk73Q-FBYOSuvnp5rQD1r58Qc-RPWF0UcF7nOI_c73ac7rOkglPG9ONDeJPNoQr7oKp28laC6WAtWhUE2-JCfXSovIhRSefPJWpjvPiDd_kIl_W2b_oEI2GpJTyYTP-XYi6z9axbBC1KgKLOlAYgA34-mE80AeRaJSWe84K_7PJNWOuUdr8KoF6jhzECCeocjGZDN-h-GBvEKotAeSXzeh9htv9db_tgeBPApTbVWIfiJSXBcA894zTyDHUwvxY04C-5EB3YeRNuXWR33qiI-577ATBow2BcbfvOKKoWJBBRhAK3NDdC0vglP-Q05lqRjdBjnuniVgL=w500-h249-no" width="350" height="178"><font size="2">Please ignore my heart lying on the floor.</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r1v7wCn_1Gjbne-3WAa6EDvHrbZ8S1tkSI0fHYZriJlmEUWAOqukVvYuKOcQpEfQdAInY76aQsS2Rjye253hqmnyvJP7QkfZpCTO1hVi-BliQPZcjLAfsXKlNJqQhJoN7BxZQFlgUq6YasRcxSdwUPqlc2VAsSiuVItODUm0fBoaIC8A7Ry6iixdHq4SHS4QzU0P9Qtq9wOiTcQcjZ-kNVDMV9E2eo3q1FjzUzKWbfBK_Ks1dm8xiYfOh9JdF34ghaJ_TTUV0VQIlQse2Q09mkohOQlnq5THSXpCN8VDmhW0ligJCc9dsH-bloblvPPMz_g9Pg9PzuQuUVi5jPzGe8l_RGzQ7Sw2coOKU_QUzTUeHaXOrYEkp5Z7ANUz1sU5z9aKdS0Drak5YRR8yAuAV-N5bZi95eXjwV0e5ZubZ2RvNEnAVe7sdgmDXWzUdSRVkSCylF63vX9YBpC2qxoxP-dM8LKTxo1oPIr00fJaJqKe8rYhg8yRq2eJyRhUVt3x8W91l7tcCIxBlaU2XSa271sx72s8NRP-EoDsNl5_TBXcGTl71tzNvQ6TTw9vveOcPmnkEjaNA1c2JWuJZl4JmGX86hbSdhuHJJN8z5S02aquvXCPaoO3TOg3qUtnUQWFW7143XP4NHqG29A6PLRmJZ5EnjHI_3Fp5EAK-UTanLmf9UGIWQpbEJVYixJXCq33w4QtnFAsI7HBW22y7XRo59rB=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font></font></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">Chocolate Butterscotch<br></font><font size="6">{The OTP with the best banter}</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="6">Howl & Sophie<br></font></strong><font size="5"><em>Howl’s Moving Castle<br></em>by Diana Wynne Jones</font><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/SYyni-RBck5FgIc9-UK1vOdC3Cg-SbLa1xw_GvBetvYhtbcKXU9uv0_znVNGkN2xC5vyCdR7hlcSN9i_XUtYgV2FZN8tgblodQGY9AU7Xn8NYeiWQNJMF3k34wJRD0gBsAq06v9IW5fYVVT-k-SHFlNz8o4vYdYpARw1qc8-Ls4OQHih0DfTennKiChY9An-MaITQ2Rap4zvVzDM1tkqVf8rJvPz5vdT2BAfcQCPPoPMJZiG30ugkh_dujBe3Gyk7Ebrj7KyRdu5skIDpE_LvNVExT6hTyvyP3FSn4MO9a2JSDveV9STpqm31V_7-pNPbifuyT1gEk-I7KEcaiPeQhCFhfK7OBA4SJcOjfzRCav-9j7wMYcnWTY5LwiDMm5HoeKRHhBKLIdp7DQMC3i5AEbzZhILrKn4qzrqxyl0vM5IQao1EHzQwszQ1RAMn7x2BqU3bTm9XWWmIBOb-2LkGD7PoMZPTNFndaK1IPCxiHjATp5qQNJA6jFcuNyjG69yqhUM4h5ZSOQnHRaJlPSD1QYGIN_ZCXsFdqLx07rYTSQ3qcyGN8cWIyTx2wpXbNGbiRL66SVhVPawyfi5jn8KBmSe4kBGzQb4wgakvGimQ5LTo4lqNFK3PqoeaXCWGJ3kJbgL9nBihuwUF55YBOlPKjQFg05osJJavykCF6OEInbAjwSLpw3ugdTcFjRmcDVbPktbXnWwWuGZv15snXJIPK9r=w300-h447-no" width="200" height="295"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="2">(Told you I was getting to them.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>The very best happened to be saved for last.</strong> Yes, I did originally have them on the “love until you die” question buuuut COME ON. Their banter! Their banter is basically what <em>makes</em> their relationship.</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><em><font size="6"><strong>“</strong></font>Really, these wizards! You'd think no one had ever had a cold before! Well, what is it?" she asked, hobbling through the bedroom door onto the filthy carpet.</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>"I'm dying of boredom," Howl said pathetically. "Or maybe just dying.”</em></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/faz2W_mLvEiPKix6PZ6YfAWwhGexBtYamnCrLzy84QVEuGb2gBsY6exv4no1Fsk5OqkOQjszpvRCyTtOzUOenSEh68Ify3_WZJSqh2Kkt49K_NLeS56P2m6qGJeqrK4-U1CMOwN_ZvRuCliwOkt_-XjNPoa8PsFDCeR-Ev-kldMxrhFUsM3UjG4VMvGj9aExLNUxOus3_cxJPGq-oBEDnWibegM9STo_X_0NJL9BkXAf2p_CADg6EMpZoNBdXlz9aDMrQ_XWaSpMTKyY6Pxc3psveA5IguJNRnTZnygOp9wL1L2j57KjSLMKrCV5rFCfQcbiryt7WdxvrwiiB1-6HL_h8PLjRMA-_tfn1isgowgajRnunNir0WBg_kqfOJmYYk1U-LNOsD3Pgmkghhw3G18GeJObNJ85NGFMC3Ba8cKjTM8pYwcq2irVozh1DF6v3Iw5I30nrhVZ-Fu_fIa7P06IipmbJPyeFlNjRYZr6j9Ncav2YLm-9gTOJfNgoDzT0m2HlewHe2aZgXQV8-nzPXvFK1Ywx0zcOTnw3ioctXMBJM0Ev4I1HhR8mvEtOZve90xbJMLpTbhk0XJbEPYdydaeaXEP4VpiOJ1NKySzfrpAWlj9mZyKgPg9cWEmdt_jhWYp3a2CEHwrag7hs_COorHxFHneclnuhMNQ9q0YB3lvycB-KuNa6Ta1sainCbgfuoEdHai6rVKL2hzE00QmPewE=w1920-h395-no" width="250" height="52">
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><em><font size="6"><strong>“</strong></font>I'm delirious. Spots are crawling before my eyes."</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>"Those are spiders.”<br></p></em></blockquote>
<p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/faz2W_mLvEiPKix6PZ6YfAWwhGexBtYamnCrLzy84QVEuGb2gBsY6exv4no1Fsk5OqkOQjszpvRCyTtOzUOenSEh68Ify3_WZJSqh2Kkt49K_NLeS56P2m6qGJeqrK4-U1CMOwN_ZvRuCliwOkt_-XjNPoa8PsFDCeR-Ev-kldMxrhFUsM3UjG4VMvGj9aExLNUxOus3_cxJPGq-oBEDnWibegM9STo_X_0NJL9BkXAf2p_CADg6EMpZoNBdXlz9aDMrQ_XWaSpMTKyY6Pxc3psveA5IguJNRnTZnygOp9wL1L2j57KjSLMKrCV5rFCfQcbiryt7WdxvrwiiB1-6HL_h8PLjRMA-_tfn1isgowgajRnunNir0WBg_kqfOJmYYk1U-LNOsD3Pgmkghhw3G18GeJObNJ85NGFMC3Ba8cKjTM8pYwcq2irVozh1DF6v3Iw5I30nrhVZ-Fu_fIa7P06IipmbJPyeFlNjRYZr6j9Ncav2YLm-9gTOJfNgoDzT0m2HlewHe2aZgXQV8-nzPXvFK1Ywx0zcOTnw3ioctXMBJM0Ev4I1HhR8mvEtOZve90xbJMLpTbhk0XJbEPYdydaeaXEP4VpiOJ1NKySzfrpAWlj9mZyKgPg9cWEmdt_jhWYp3a2CEHwrag7hs_COorHxFHneclnuhMNQ9q0YB3lvycB-KuNa6Ta1sainCbgfuoEdHai6rVKL2hzE00QmPewE=w1920-h395-no" width="250" height="52">
<blockquote>
<p><br><em><strong><font size="6">“</font></strong>More about Howl?” Sophie thought desperately. </em>I have to blacken his name!<em> Her mind was such a blank that for a second it actually seemed to her that Howl had no faults at all. How stupid! “Well, he's fickle, careless, selfish, and hysterical,” she said. “Half the time I think he doesn't care what happens to anyone as long as he's alright—but then I find out how awfully kind he's been to someone. Then I think he's kind just when it suits him—only then I find out he undercharges poor people. I don't know, Your Majesty. He's a mess.”</em> </p></blockquote>
<p><br>Life giving content right there.</p>
<p><br><strong>When I talk about my “OTP” this is truly it.</strong> They’re such a ridiculous pairing and I love them with my whole heart.</p>
<p><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/DeEKQOkOqlJyu5hI-OqGetpKqp7G55rmpqpS80IXRnzlV22Z7BjJ5OyqMavQxSvjHCS8E50zVscgJf85BawZviP0HIPU1rFu_2euPOHAl5RIv77p5L7Xg1JlDjjInqdr_N4m5cu3utmJuPHlE4uqrv7CHantQuOBMv6C-NkLhvXng3PMtJKuNDf9Bs0vtjzxFk_sm8f9LREgndFT2jZ5wejaFmU3couRYsGKF6ELZXchoQ0jrJ5ts3L2HdAGiCwKtWe-JOBD-BER_lc-HQh5LQ9Nfok7Bj9rxqLX-WztVniRo_CsC6UCLkLrhG9OUy4fDPFefI0-eZYvY8jKWkyciBSvWHyldueHRVz7kx8_GfWQgytmTx2paDPZtqVMWvFi7apODiibXBnuJ9GUjzkKCQ4z5J88RNrZ4hBRD2XomHwUWUeflmzOzVklQyU1owRx47Tsli9TG6E1mPVTQHfvqdRy5ppkmGvhwWSrmgx3gTsNu8Fh-AOYt0cexneS4gG3fpx4QP6PjaIwHUmM226F--Imxw9by-EQlHDSOiOlmLuebniFmDZSuAExWzDNqLetRvc-RejL8bKco3GKXUqb9TBso-h-4rB_Y2zULGDmFHRfQQ3mYcGCkR1x2Vyw8kgjhJLUmTLGTWykMYWjZN6URaxNPxT66Y3qwrm9dX7YKILjGDLD__uGUywaUn2o-xkLfNNOb5P50RTxNluwYwZwnTnD=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p><br>Whew! I won’t even tell you guys how much time I spent on these answers—changing and switching them around, agonizing over <em>who</em> to choose because I had so many choices for like <em>every</em> one, questioning myself again and again. I JUST HAVE TOO MANY SHIPS. But I regret nothiiiing.</p>
<p><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/c1xSabaLMxLSE7r6W2GaB9dhQCpk1ebkKfoa0kEAGv4sYAaC_RicL3hd2nzjTWg63Li79FkcZedMJes98Tkc4voEWddeg2qQpt59U2RO23CFoa8UtMZIo0y7s9vHQjF1p02sx4_q78t4eXPbZK19cKe2V9vnt2_lYH_BFiWdr8m3wkxemldLSwpN7XBPAgRRzWaTpcByIcAI56Ux34ZX87E8vrEs9ulgpxhMJOo5l_4IFgap74wmjbNNSQLjhBAiqGbzPeAzVSQUfKcLoGVQr5DqeK28-1fVvZ5eF8gRSDTA38u5GT8XhA_37nMXL4d76VTd9tLTrbBIu03U1FG1WAo5RRQ7hX9iG2CVEAHwHpBMz-QH-Z8bwIvlA_i3fEtjwLDjNISVOFv1leZJfgymyXRYD-u1gLFOqHO9JsJ5glfBBNU947Y3Chvc0HsDvfJ9rUnWRZIgMgiOj2uBXKwri9Tcti8-FqixqJdMI98JKxeP9Ogm5xBTfUNZnmUBRHoDVJTjFPodAVhdKCTf7rO1mtZ95BfbwZ6fFDZo8BODtmsrqvANV3RsEW2yI-hLvva1AdyVYQGIzGnJD-wyPyC7kftmspxYcpyNyYK6_KK_INqfALi3STVA6uOzwv7zABVynJZNsx39nNhOF-YFknPNdVD8QB08nE3jmSZ6xAAcS5TKzDJBFQUlEaVgQOSrKRkXGecXWXGXtMcdsfbtBwWIkr8d=w400-h198-no" width="350" height="178"></p>
<p><br><strong>If you want to join in on the </strong><strike>pain</strike> <strong>fun, check out </strong><a href="http://liannetaimenlore.blogspot.com/2019/02/a-heart-shaped-box-of-otps-tag.html" target="_blank"><strong>KIRI'S POST</strong></a><strong> to snag all the questions and join the linkup! It runs through February, so get your heart-eyes ready and let the shipping begin!</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/faz2W_mLvEiPKix6PZ6YfAWwhGexBtYamnCrLzy84QVEuGb2gBsY6exv4no1Fsk5OqkOQjszpvRCyTtOzUOenSEh68Ify3_WZJSqh2Kkt49K_NLeS56P2m6qGJeqrK4-U1CMOwN_ZvRuCliwOkt_-XjNPoa8PsFDCeR-Ev-kldMxrhFUsM3UjG4VMvGj9aExLNUxOus3_cxJPGq-oBEDnWibegM9STo_X_0NJL9BkXAf2p_CADg6EMpZoNBdXlz9aDMrQ_XWaSpMTKyY6Pxc3psveA5IguJNRnTZnygOp9wL1L2j57KjSLMKrCV5rFCfQcbiryt7WdxvrwiiB1-6HL_h8PLjRMA-_tfn1isgowgajRnunNir0WBg_kqfOJmYYk1U-LNOsD3Pgmkghhw3G18GeJObNJ85NGFMC3Ba8cKjTM8pYwcq2irVozh1DF6v3Iw5I30nrhVZ-Fu_fIa7P06IipmbJPyeFlNjRYZr6j9Ncav2YLm-9gTOJfNgoDzT0m2HlewHe2aZgXQV8-nzPXvFK1Ywx0zcOTnw3ioctXMBJM0Ev4I1HhR8mvEtOZve90xbJMLpTbhk0XJbEPYdydaeaXEP4VpiOJ1NKySzfrpAWlj9mZyKgPg9cWEmdt_jhWYp3a2CEHwrag7hs_COorHxFHneclnuhMNQ9q0YB3lvycB-KuNa6Ta1sainCbgfuoEdHai6rVKL2hzE00QmPewE=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="5">Obviously I <em>need</em> to fangirl/boy with you guys about these OTPs. Do we have some of the same ones? Do you agree with my answers? Do your ships give you as much emotional trauma as mine do? Let’s discuss ALL THE SHIPPING. And don’t forget you can join the linkup </font><a href="http://liannetaimenlore.blogspot.com/2019/02/a-heart-shaped-box-of-otps-tag.html" target="_blank"><font size="5">HERE</font></a></font><font size="5">!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com47tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-18857893069411039662019-02-11T10:30:00.001-06:002019-02-11T10:30:41.121-06:0010 Valentine’s Date Ideas for the Fantasy Dwellers<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vjNPjWSwpL6YIDHH_BbrafB2uPhr-LqeJdBp5wnw7fTsUGZ8CPrXlhiW2P3Dexhia_TJBOnxV8zQXVfhXMlX2tfRWWFMjg8U75P7uNQ0CizkpfWgE1_sgEe-y19vgBPk1d8ClZxoYcPXzMjsby0Hppd_jE7JIQ0zlK_24gitSO0mCealxC7T8L1xn9kN9OWFFSr6ZeRDLp0beTTe6qNL5uyrwEKqvEELpDTOf7_GYfI-9dDb2LdtKLRho-btfvgl3mEtuVs7Pwu6nql4eCcgca5_wkOKZBT3nQUS6qEDCXiIUGghJQmi7cNxX8OEJa05bCApc8R5VmxMJcdV1H78Rqp4O8p_vLucASL-h0aPhobJyClUdwR-2X1Bga7doLrdjWDHEtOuxKe17TUPjUCnThoiVEGb-LDEySCMQwrRoqgaMk1a9GTT6Ydw9g30QmIWoSdV_tJuq1-k-e2zKHpSF24-a9bB-gYcVvZhdef4dFA_Ooxh1oaLUnh46gIca-VQloFxlyzk6D0fo6bqTjArzzYT1ORv6mV8ODoe319kajyi5DB5V8QN4HpHEVTMEmpi3AkHObt-XReeFkafilqiNbZ46lGK5QiymzoNqXphxqcsOzH3LrM0lr3XKFXv9tzmxr8rpFGlpZx3ARFvW7k2Ue81spsCjfznvy3Xkdp4CvQ_iSzmLGF2CC2mcoVVba5uWRzEBsEApaJ1ujMifFAyuams=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">Valentine’s Day is this week which means a lot of people are scrambling around trying to figure out the perfect dates for their sweethearts. And for a lot of people, it’s pretty simple. A nice coffee shop date, going to the theater, or just grabbing some flowers and a card at Winn-Dixie. But what about if you live in a fantasy world where such conveniences aren’t available?</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Not every fellow has a Walmart around the corner after all. I mean, sure, you may be adept at swordplay and the lost heir to the entire kingdom, but how is that supposed to help you woo your love on this romantic holiday?</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Never fear!<strong> Today I’ve got 10 Valentine’s date ideas for a variety of fantasy world dwellers.</strong> You’re sure to find the perfect idea to show your dearheart that you really do care.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/F5V5O9D3iY-mMTkDcJoWWu1-tTFP4yhax2Gktyw-qsZMKGOMqYDyF53qrT7-VlqWmJ1SHtingG-dNr3JcmZafiJv77CLt2X0srcNuZ50hkK2P0r6rIbp-Ei1wKCehjmnpnagQO_6VmrRgbv3ATmOdLgcB6ULFaGvyIn-q8ZzEzV_cy9aPM6pro5vBxxPBR5BKaC4DoMjK5AuWP0spwAPkp3iUNqcdp8IuV_Vv7UNYghy0r6IztzeeK-PhmywZClY9AMg5_x5WQqOjPqhthiSqX0hS4LII-ducd7mUz3X5DBwyTieuAu6l62gIhgehrKB0m12UdWW-WArIqdO-yzxFLKiWcdyBC2d0HxCyCQbWj1AKuzxj9yRpQNHOi4aXwfv0z59ivSLcqhsy-fOOFkUKzRcLednSrAZSNEuG7YTvyEgNVUyMaZ48fzOzxt9TYaGyilFVqfViurIPyV4kOhbJQrVvRB5xvL-6Crpvre5rVD9fLuGkU47U483yV32QCFQ-SQj4J9Qo-kbDml-41YEt0UIW-0gCfx_iBpZVZ4BY6w2wjwirRdLpN71H94mZHMML6vF1xgyCoi3j2fdyD1p11BtNZHJS4whX1j3bi274Uslj7unu3g5fXbfI97BpV_ueDWfehmjGhD6M3OdiCj5siAhEuIr4WwXPmqvtQIPKYnJi-4v37nMZq6KmIT61spFyqUOm_ScSOJulARtd0cad1w3=w1647-h293-no" width="350" height="64"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>10 Fantasy World<br>Valentine’s Dates</strong></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/F5V5O9D3iY-mMTkDcJoWWu1-tTFP4yhax2Gktyw-qsZMKGOMqYDyF53qrT7-VlqWmJ1SHtingG-dNr3JcmZafiJv77CLt2X0srcNuZ50hkK2P0r6rIbp-Ei1wKCehjmnpnagQO_6VmrRgbv3ATmOdLgcB6ULFaGvyIn-q8ZzEzV_cy9aPM6pro5vBxxPBR5BKaC4DoMjK5AuWP0spwAPkp3iUNqcdp8IuV_Vv7UNYghy0r6IztzeeK-PhmywZClY9AMg5_x5WQqOjPqhthiSqX0hS4LII-ducd7mUz3X5DBwyTieuAu6l62gIhgehrKB0m12UdWW-WArIqdO-yzxFLKiWcdyBC2d0HxCyCQbWj1AKuzxj9yRpQNHOi4aXwfv0z59ivSLcqhsy-fOOFkUKzRcLednSrAZSNEuG7YTvyEgNVUyMaZ48fzOzxt9TYaGyilFVqfViurIPyV4kOhbJQrVvRB5xvL-6Crpvre5rVD9fLuGkU47U483yV32QCFQ-SQj4J9Qo-kbDml-41YEt0UIW-0gCfx_iBpZVZ4BY6w2wjwirRdLpN71H94mZHMML6vF1xgyCoi3j2fdyD1p11BtNZHJS4whX1j3bi274Uslj7unu3g5fXbfI97BpV_ueDWfehmjGhD6M3OdiCj5siAhEuIr4WwXPmqvtQIPKYnJi-4v37nMZq6KmIT61spFyqUOm_ScSOJulARtd0cad1w3=w1647-h293-no" width="350" height="64"></p>
<p align="justify"><br> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gdv_-R53EpoVY-Qlw7ew16OxIB20GGPuqfOE275qXzBvtM8Ga3KO76dURdpZik3kkTbeEvEpUHhvrFbZryYqKoN1HtfYjmUXZFan8tlq_L7TKw9c_es67YqOJuOpFOorg6rJwDnfgfxmIJYHmTMlfXq5SPfEr8IH_l3qAHM177onRJt9Y_rUckakw2LRTqupcXRPHUUgfIag_fHuHfNPtzBoTvjW7q2W1nGGi4PGu00A-I3TeArEPbacY5DmurhJE57SIkIk5GDnd99Y7ywKLk1x3ykPF3krurbMe5CwO8VaChDmfNX1q4BHKvpG8Lvp8Uq1vRKGprxRSKsarvwr2gHg6RiEvtp1_py8BqBNtBeQQEYuzJS10ahAs441TZHguF5uqo6yGRSfAZUkKIZJQ2JthFvuvo1dFNHDqxzTEQg7URX7TN5apzkQ3TyDLX72hymBpN_0MKPQYfi3xo2eD87rhElDy8RhoyIKpT3K2m6ZRZ00IFN9ygge3CJF0DZg1Hg7aSNoRJbBOMkiIyNk0NWc8Jrv62kgaYL0bGlA8flcpOVnwM2ae7vx7fjjJTZWZo6V8uzEBThzNZglUqzeT2aNrWniRSoyqGeh5PzKFwcyW34LEps2MzpxCTnMZZporshxPiz5nUadpkRFGJd44ZvdbXVYLU-rtZjdkjmpSLSOSEPHRM_uUDtKnUNvtVqNNJP3jOWSl3m4NZN_LQfFPSSa=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">DRAGON RIDING</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Who <em>doesn’t</em> want to go dragon riding, I ask you? I mean, if a guy took <em>me</em> dragon riding, I’d probably marry him on the spot. Just sayin’. <strong>Nothing like riding high in the sky on a deadly, fire breathing beast to truly showcase your love.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>With that said, you may want to assure that the dragon you’re riding is <em>friendly.</em> Having your love be burnt into a human torch or turned into a beast’s next meal maaay dampen the date just a smidge.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Also, some dragon rides risk being taken to a dragons’ nest where a gargantuan dragon is seen eating smaller dragons if not provided food. Such a sight could be a little repulsive and/or horrifying to your date, so be wary.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Other then these little setbacks, a dragon ride is a surefire <font size="2">(seewhatIdidthere)</font> way to impress your date.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/onjkgRWGDU_1wlKyztjriQxYZZLVT-sDWgmxyufNpgDgWIZQjW5yYk1cRLhSBtyuea-adv-g3CPURBoCx8OrJ2Tn9Uni57SRpOE8obv7vPAiHJmMFs34lGjOjyjG2cAj1fW--5EWybMWtVIAUl_2QXf-S8ApqY0OATuxKOkK3eJH5kkB7-rXp9iXxgdzK38nhFzzc6j222YZI4CteLlCQkz_wCIGQEsaAsK447h3yFE0511q3FHGQtN89-yR2d_sdDk0lVxaKd_M6_7jlFSg2TVUIByF2YhTtQUTPFRlJBc0t-x0RzsOsUWAZYL6a0gfFCQ4mtgWzlmDUJzKaMGvW_vcGoy6MltahGRijn0uCZc9v7mG7axfs20GsdtOVRjSXfx8EhtNqO5CsF4-gm81ZzR7AMkSJFHvEbuPYxjca1Y-Vn6rajv836ghNRgjtxthJUkwKyZminmbML8KGrZvOJ0lHsXooiOP2-3m6vpeXu9J0-3EZCtD4xSueoURhuovypC2s8VSrrLPVStIjVPy90Y-If8_2wV_TaqkAgIfEu7Vj_0V_y-fxWl6BYfj01rDX3DIptX8Q-4HcBD8mVNNbefsoSoqZ4nBHS7tLXcjA20D7OaBcA6Ciihn3-cH6uVyuAkC1DigkqkSzXFnIgntyQOUzWO_x99RtA2ZQgOHO1OIqoIOq6M45nKAyI-RYeUenG6NimHRRUOO8X34Oqp55xxY=w500-h209-no" width="400" height="172"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gdv_-R53EpoVY-Qlw7ew16OxIB20GGPuqfOE275qXzBvtM8Ga3KO76dURdpZik3kkTbeEvEpUHhvrFbZryYqKoN1HtfYjmUXZFan8tlq_L7TKw9c_es67YqOJuOpFOorg6rJwDnfgfxmIJYHmTMlfXq5SPfEr8IH_l3qAHM177onRJt9Y_rUckakw2LRTqupcXRPHUUgfIag_fHuHfNPtzBoTvjW7q2W1nGGi4PGu00A-I3TeArEPbacY5DmurhJE57SIkIk5GDnd99Y7ywKLk1x3ykPF3krurbMe5CwO8VaChDmfNX1q4BHKvpG8Lvp8Uq1vRKGprxRSKsarvwr2gHg6RiEvtp1_py8BqBNtBeQQEYuzJS10ahAs441TZHguF5uqo6yGRSfAZUkKIZJQ2JthFvuvo1dFNHDqxzTEQg7URX7TN5apzkQ3TyDLX72hymBpN_0MKPQYfi3xo2eD87rhElDy8RhoyIKpT3K2m6ZRZ00IFN9ygge3CJF0DZg1Hg7aSNoRJbBOMkiIyNk0NWc8Jrv62kgaYL0bGlA8flcpOVnwM2ae7vx7fjjJTZWZo6V8uzEBThzNZglUqzeT2aNrWniRSoyqGeh5PzKFwcyW34LEps2MzpxCTnMZZporshxPiz5nUadpkRFGJd44ZvdbXVYLU-rtZjdkjmpSLSOSEPHRM_uUDtKnUNvtVqNNJP3jOWSl3m4NZN_LQfFPSSa=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">STEAL THEM AWAY TO NEVERLAND</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Ah, Neverland. The world invented by childhood imagination. An island full of mythical creatures and adventure. What better place to go for a date?</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Of course, there are certain steps you must take to get your crush there. But don’t worry, it works every time.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Step #1:</strong> Break into their nursery.</p>
<p align="justify"><strong>Step #2:</strong> Lose your shadow in said nursery.</p>
<p align="justify"><strong>Step #3:</strong> Break into the nursery again to regain your shadow.</p>
<p align="justify"><strong>Step #4:</strong> Have your crush help you sew your shadow back on and charm them with stories about Neverland.</p>
<p align="justify"><strong>Step #5:</strong> Convince them to come to Neverland (success!).</p>
<p align="justify"><strong>Step #6:</strong> Oh wait, they also want to bring their brothers. Ew. But fine, whatever.</p>
<p align="justify"><strong>Step #7:</strong> Take them all on a harrowing flight. Off to Neverland!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Boom. You’ve done it. Now you can have weeks worth of fun and adventures. Although…you may want to consider telling her early on that you have no desire to grow up or have anything to do with that lovey-dovey stuff. Yeah, she may leave you and end up marrying someone else. But hey, honesty is the best policy, yeah?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ALzGb1qJz_J_Lvjz09TKIUUhiiPRwHEGcFSMCdIW4dleJOfutH-VklfF9zwwZ-_-xnViQctRcDuE_0UavlHngZlSsZHNTOR8m172ZEJpEC1JYzmfvocYnhE2hSiBBNvDLC5EyDaV-Bq-bBGHKiAU4noewQV0_Lp63JJKHJZmqaw28nQu631XIRhQx3Kb2gwT0D7mJE1v9542oMmOrqK-B6YCzr-4g_IGrz15ueYN8M6AIlWNcwmT2OjpuXhnIOr8eqr9AlTCoH0SgxwFvBa72VBaQ7xPUKbEbs1smhm2EC1UwzliXgpae96kOODxQBx4wTyZGPkQ49PF-NhAPJP4z4JnqenOzJUPokj-JcP61n3QV0MxuY3zipmsUd0xmO6MFvuaI9EjxPnaxokY8A1xVhKFigHw-jtiUIbs8y4W5CwUL2SX0mSyI6N7CPpj6IAUh93vEyX8-bE-DmZAzY6yNzuHtfyms0jeG9KHWXyvbEvQf1K-P1-fYQyOSCUFHPZweZEluNuQGZEiB1I9YeArY7Gf8sQZfYEXECLz5Av4KwIG3tdxsETNTdI6Z9fxixff2fF3Zt7ruiecSkl9eSzVcbKFx8TM0TsrJSszkPU9FEo3vJN-mynf1SCgxhOWna3sQRhzPFzjHPAFhqiz_VIU4pwYr4RpgOmvEv_JBhr0G9x03NuAoQMHaRYXdX9dA0ZG8WE8u_ZUj2SdKrhXwt9bql5U=w500-h207-no" width="400" height="170"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gdv_-R53EpoVY-Qlw7ew16OxIB20GGPuqfOE275qXzBvtM8Ga3KO76dURdpZik3kkTbeEvEpUHhvrFbZryYqKoN1HtfYjmUXZFan8tlq_L7TKw9c_es67YqOJuOpFOorg6rJwDnfgfxmIJYHmTMlfXq5SPfEr8IH_l3qAHM177onRJt9Y_rUckakw2LRTqupcXRPHUUgfIag_fHuHfNPtzBoTvjW7q2W1nGGi4PGu00A-I3TeArEPbacY5DmurhJE57SIkIk5GDnd99Y7ywKLk1x3ykPF3krurbMe5CwO8VaChDmfNX1q4BHKvpG8Lvp8Uq1vRKGprxRSKsarvwr2gHg6RiEvtp1_py8BqBNtBeQQEYuzJS10ahAs441TZHguF5uqo6yGRSfAZUkKIZJQ2JthFvuvo1dFNHDqxzTEQg7URX7TN5apzkQ3TyDLX72hymBpN_0MKPQYfi3xo2eD87rhElDy8RhoyIKpT3K2m6ZRZ00IFN9ygge3CJF0DZg1Hg7aSNoRJbBOMkiIyNk0NWc8Jrv62kgaYL0bGlA8flcpOVnwM2ae7vx7fjjJTZWZo6V8uzEBThzNZglUqzeT2aNrWniRSoyqGeh5PzKFwcyW34LEps2MzpxCTnMZZporshxPiz5nUadpkRFGJd44ZvdbXVYLU-rtZjdkjmpSLSOSEPHRM_uUDtKnUNvtVqNNJP3jOWSl3m4NZN_LQfFPSSa=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">MAD TEA PARTY</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Girls LOVE tea parties. <strong>Unfortunately, normal tea parties aren’t always available in fantasy worlds. But never fear! A mad tea party will do just as well.</strong> Just wander around in the woods for a while, you’ll probably come upon one eventually. Though there is definitely a possibility you and your date will have to share the tea table with some, erm, unconventional guests who will switch seats at any given time, recite absurd poetry, and maybe ask an unsolvable riddle or two <font size="2">(how <em>is</em> a raven like a writing desk?)</font><font size="4">. But it’ll keep the date entertaining anyway, right?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Oh, also, don’t cross Time while you’re there, or you may be stuck at tea time forever. Then again, that’ll prolong the date so…your call.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/V6l8xz_JrF9b8pBb4CO5q7ULJNFvXKXLMo_YKNoKKASyqVIRVnYpxHrDwDixdZg_zATU6qKR6BW1O0a3GykFykjjtGJC19mXCszihProOCBdvShCq04tM5WuAyD7d4fl9Tmjkv-LW3J9cqMEx5bXTqmjA9WaCmrDCuU0zpIREBp5TPe1hKufO9ucwAbozWihr5uI4oUzabHDVF13IQlSgL0_Lam345KVldTgE7zdK62cE4eSBaQYTOxNhl7ti56NUL1xkH3ICDYjHw7tttXJf7s7f5njRTUc4qXDQudllC8djXN-qOMr4esi8j3iUwCS06Y41OAzYaWOmQw4uKhm-ZD-MLVr-WWAxBNjQKGzA0S2JlVXRGmzOfrNcTaTJ9PFrNWXAmduKkBxMNOylRe6FF4rDje8POezOds_bnkuYBPRd2N3xb8yqxJNvmxB7LzciYyGWms3QI3zXpaQNpcnVj-juhzt3JfM2BLm1JsQmmmSzn0A47dXADSvHH1opyZatFjJr5nWRDq7Pfjj4dryd4jTZNcFW5s3JqFqnsL7GXa-HmZ5Jz4x6yRSp_ISn94uMrsYqmf6KNay_mIbA2GAmikS3-OZ0m9CQigxgOSfrHG3bEd2Jl6VPvvgdRjqNGOuN8w8tpagHoE5FmDJ2gE2TuPEnoB-7--cpO04sYhjJBH6sxlLAcNDB5ICu5UpwGCHqrVxKdDOJQC21V6F9CyhNSPf=w423-h270-no" width="350" height="226"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gdv_-R53EpoVY-Qlw7ew16OxIB20GGPuqfOE275qXzBvtM8Ga3KO76dURdpZik3kkTbeEvEpUHhvrFbZryYqKoN1HtfYjmUXZFan8tlq_L7TKw9c_es67YqOJuOpFOorg6rJwDnfgfxmIJYHmTMlfXq5SPfEr8IH_l3qAHM177onRJt9Y_rUckakw2LRTqupcXRPHUUgfIag_fHuHfNPtzBoTvjW7q2W1nGGi4PGu00A-I3TeArEPbacY5DmurhJE57SIkIk5GDnd99Y7ywKLk1x3ykPF3krurbMe5CwO8VaChDmfNX1q4BHKvpG8Lvp8Uq1vRKGprxRSKsarvwr2gHg6RiEvtp1_py8BqBNtBeQQEYuzJS10ahAs441TZHguF5uqo6yGRSfAZUkKIZJQ2JthFvuvo1dFNHDqxzTEQg7URX7TN5apzkQ3TyDLX72hymBpN_0MKPQYfi3xo2eD87rhElDy8RhoyIKpT3K2m6ZRZ00IFN9ygge3CJF0DZg1Hg7aSNoRJbBOMkiIyNk0NWc8Jrv62kgaYL0bGlA8flcpOVnwM2ae7vx7fjjJTZWZo6V8uzEBThzNZglUqzeT2aNrWniRSoyqGeh5PzKFwcyW34LEps2MzpxCTnMZZporshxPiz5nUadpkRFGJd44ZvdbXVYLU-rtZjdkjmpSLSOSEPHRM_uUDtKnUNvtVqNNJP3jOWSl3m4NZN_LQfFPSSa=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">SEE THE FLOATING LANTERNS</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Now this is a true romantic date right here. Buy a floating lantern, go out in a boat, watch the lanterns fly.</strong> Ah, beautiful.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Just, erm, be wary. Because your date’s evil mother-who’s-not-actually-her-mother may be lurking nearby to kidnap you and convince your date you betrayed her. That could <em>really</em> put a hamper on second date plans.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Also, you may want to take singing lessons before any of this.</strong> Random bursts into song are likely to occur, and if you’ve got no talent in the vocal musical area well, that’d just make for an awkward romantic sequence. But if you live in a fantasy world, you were probably born able to sing perfectly and know the line to any random song that ever comes up. So you should have no reason to worry.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/WQUyCWxmg4iBOheOmoeOx0BFQK2ZwjH8RT2O7f0tDUPnR2tHMyG8J-4D1MlcVLWhJngEybPCYoB73HsuKTy5g_JSw8ALmcm_JPu36imwW3sChrkVxRIz-b_1EXmWCz-K9RKKRk8qj7tdiYVoQ5A-SadIEb_OoPRjzyvAG_k3kbvtGpTf9wb8X9rPRuav-fcmkozOttMUdT4CT_dysvM60NxeWNk_01oniUNOUsqK7o04kEigAS0BRutPVuYLr4wNTcSAVj68ugGs65dL2VrtQ1O4PbmfqO-FhLVwXizc6D_pbHYoUsclrEkOQlmwlYYSRE_FzA-s5EspB2P0ECdegHUParpu4l06ZOhbWIeq5Vg4A2cxlu9QHHcxvK1LUR6regaUzfTsPvdEWxGbO3BIOXPqTfUuwCYIg2S4ZBda8RjsrE86BMrfnNFgFS8Zxl5742hKEjFevNW_7Yhuf4KztlNlBLCKps5absfckhve99zGvykZC2aYmJ6fofAtXYew4RJQAndxFN6td0Pm5hRAucVpBkAzY-l9lBCeHQBYp36RzA2yuMjU5Xw3jtM47fJTdFFppwUNtNWszs_Dzmp-oJvZx7ycGBnB90jm5aiefcRg3iJNrevCWZLfY0QaisSUSPmotdM7lTVFMViuChfprrmunxCjNvwPPsAQlQa4SDaqTD_i0YEYkpLK8cNJzuKpV9H1-adMZln9Cpx2tw2trOlU=w529-h296-no" width="350" height="199"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gdv_-R53EpoVY-Qlw7ew16OxIB20GGPuqfOE275qXzBvtM8Ga3KO76dURdpZik3kkTbeEvEpUHhvrFbZryYqKoN1HtfYjmUXZFan8tlq_L7TKw9c_es67YqOJuOpFOorg6rJwDnfgfxmIJYHmTMlfXq5SPfEr8IH_l3qAHM177onRJt9Y_rUckakw2LRTqupcXRPHUUgfIag_fHuHfNPtzBoTvjW7q2W1nGGi4PGu00A-I3TeArEPbacY5DmurhJE57SIkIk5GDnd99Y7ywKLk1x3ykPF3krurbMe5CwO8VaChDmfNX1q4BHKvpG8Lvp8Uq1vRKGprxRSKsarvwr2gHg6RiEvtp1_py8BqBNtBeQQEYuzJS10ahAs441TZHguF5uqo6yGRSfAZUkKIZJQ2JthFvuvo1dFNHDqxzTEQg7URX7TN5apzkQ3TyDLX72hymBpN_0MKPQYfi3xo2eD87rhElDy8RhoyIKpT3K2m6ZRZ00IFN9ygge3CJF0DZg1Hg7aSNoRJbBOMkiIyNk0NWc8Jrv62kgaYL0bGlA8flcpOVnwM2ae7vx7fjjJTZWZo6V8uzEBThzNZglUqzeT2aNrWniRSoyqGeh5PzKFwcyW34LEps2MzpxCTnMZZporshxPiz5nUadpkRFGJd44ZvdbXVYLU-rtZjdkjmpSLSOSEPHRM_uUDtKnUNvtVqNNJP3jOWSl3m4NZN_LQfFPSSa=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">MAGIC CARPET RIDE</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This runs very close in the vein of seeing the floating lanterns. A starry night, you two bursting into song </strong><font size="2">(gotta keep those voice lessons up, don’t forget)</font><strong>, so on and so forth. BUT to get to this point requires a bit more effort.</strong> First you have to actually <em>obtain </em>a magic carpet, which usually involves getting sent to prison, making deals with evil dudes, exploring ancient, sentient caves, and nearly dying. A genie might be thrown in there somewhere too. But if you can manage all that and make it out alive with a magic carpet, you’ve got your key to an iconic romantic date. Totally worth it.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Oh, just know if you lie about your identity to your date she’s going to get miffed. Remember what we learned earlier, honesty is always the best policy. Like, seriously. Please avoid the unnecessary drama and just <em>talk</em> to your crush openly. It’s not that hard.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LYBt2EftdykTdVS20O788MRKRUCjEn8f2blDo-Se_iKMdnBzmAsY-UOuy_1S4kkWBvoSUNBRIOhDiFHUokBU3keaTdMVztecwZ40GlLyOxlq8lZHzkimoS5dETy7r_FbCGJn_f76Fn0d3pp0qUbdueJ2LW8V4gZZTKLpphSMrV8a6OZF7hiyhMX1Joa6uI3Qp2VX8xPz16xErre_RBFU8DG5olJdkHgVrSC4SD2gxCE0DvW5Z-nXDQBiqGJzBaYeyetDcQOqlQusQl8Iicvif_1UGZ9BVBO08_rBCnCufZyV7209DIiJrg4WVvAYn2zVAaiyCwBQsQpVREJLNPmJvQJqWlIFR8CJVZj2c5N1wrh-ZV8MCBOEn9Ct5Rp2vPXZtsFGmwHL_kGZvt693dy8r0DmLPhWs2U3pWZchOwHDHokBX2cUk045PTXKLqNd27BYICWZoeSKkyOIQBBOhHG_c1GQJ9E4Rxhi-yIKU4n7GYC49XTBmrcits3KdCHCKjnixMXx3IYHOlBKcuFB65IZuoY0Lc0iTdLgKMjeVb2vnGi5pMtk_l78pfEeJpN0UXGTgY52nPQ0mSl9bYQUFslobVNbX66QS4dthz7jEk3pPlMHSuhSBOCKdJ59i5gMX24uuF66F7ByNh_YLKKOg52eNiO1r_IWerVtP-sIyVN-t57op1EhFR1xtDKeMRH8Sj2vACbVDC3RiKsZDkyxt-8EQde=w407-h244-no" width="350" height="213"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gdv_-R53EpoVY-Qlw7ew16OxIB20GGPuqfOE275qXzBvtM8Ga3KO76dURdpZik3kkTbeEvEpUHhvrFbZryYqKoN1HtfYjmUXZFan8tlq_L7TKw9c_es67YqOJuOpFOorg6rJwDnfgfxmIJYHmTMlfXq5SPfEr8IH_l3qAHM177onRJt9Y_rUckakw2LRTqupcXRPHUUgfIag_fHuHfNPtzBoTvjW7q2W1nGGi4PGu00A-I3TeArEPbacY5DmurhJE57SIkIk5GDnd99Y7ywKLk1x3ykPF3krurbMe5CwO8VaChDmfNX1q4BHKvpG8Lvp8Uq1vRKGprxRSKsarvwr2gHg6RiEvtp1_py8BqBNtBeQQEYuzJS10ahAs441TZHguF5uqo6yGRSfAZUkKIZJQ2JthFvuvo1dFNHDqxzTEQg7URX7TN5apzkQ3TyDLX72hymBpN_0MKPQYfi3xo2eD87rhElDy8RhoyIKpT3K2m6ZRZ00IFN9ygge3CJF0DZg1Hg7aSNoRJbBOMkiIyNk0NWc8Jrv62kgaYL0bGlA8flcpOVnwM2ae7vx7fjjJTZWZo6V8uzEBThzNZglUqzeT2aNrWniRSoyqGeh5PzKFwcyW34LEps2MzpxCTnMZZporshxPiz5nUadpkRFGJd44ZvdbXVYLU-rtZjdkjmpSLSOSEPHRM_uUDtKnUNvtVqNNJP3jOWSl3m4NZN_LQfFPSSa=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">TIME TRAVEL</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>If you’re fortunate enough to live in a world where time travel exists, then by all means, use it! The date possibilities are endless, literally.</strong> You can take your crush to the end of the earth where she discovers she’s the last human in existence and have an existential crisis <font size="2">(ah, romantic)</font>. Or how about Victorian times to visit Queen Victoria herself? Only to discover the British Empire is being terrorized by a werewolf <font size="2">(full moons are perfect for date nights)</font>. Or to witness the fires of Pompeii. <font size="2">(Fire is romantic, right?)</font> I mean, really. How could she not fall in love with you after all these great trips?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4TR-rKTlRxW8eiyMo2q5J5pY2aJdLojG0TpBo-b1SNMwzhcEiINgQNoTM53gLdk8PShBTFIjdNpIlOMldiIulP_yA18nkXVH3OaOHRj-JFlJ3uw2HVup9G61mzill1Qd9jm1aY5d_2Yxtl8VonmZEAmJ3ikAUaoG1UNaX0y6Yieg96oDUG1gzIQkz-aURQy1ZvhTiVz5rntbx93TLuTUg2KsBm2kAtDhG4ZnFy46oDMdAkB2FTHX7a37ZNHynnA1Sxe3fWdOnj7RuzLmLoRMUCQRIvnI5BqkWteJAz21pJ3e8ZWWdHORaLGR-OWLM8LpkwIzdSmIiiUpTECdln_edG4b1rfcHqg-jPnyO8325-4osI4zPGVxb7x55gZnLvWC6sGUkYV3zDWGoAydssoL6HIR1Mw2DA9I1Tifejc5OXx1XHgaClRwDztkm-GC5WvK9dZJfzPAzA1q_pa-oy33qiSnWeIrebRrtJWefxKEzh8eACnluVkK5QSF76Fiu2NHGmJIwiF2DtgDs-R6sR-KYATsTHneW5b_wtlOgt7-UCttf1MeegCzA9x4ToSUH8f64R6cxlC89jC7w8M9KAWEqNj-1lCxestMMCO9MBSRSH0-Y3vpIM3S4EMN8UXPjZhA-ogZJhsHr5fyQgkKk2JS3naJMO6VUcbJdwQ8TXunZoCQj5qAf2jS-HyAoQgEtx3S4l-TJ4n380UHOtKSh0Iw5H5d=w500-h240-no" width="400" height="196"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gdv_-R53EpoVY-Qlw7ew16OxIB20GGPuqfOE275qXzBvtM8Ga3KO76dURdpZik3kkTbeEvEpUHhvrFbZryYqKoN1HtfYjmUXZFan8tlq_L7TKw9c_es67YqOJuOpFOorg6rJwDnfgfxmIJYHmTMlfXq5SPfEr8IH_l3qAHM177onRJt9Y_rUckakw2LRTqupcXRPHUUgfIag_fHuHfNPtzBoTvjW7q2W1nGGi4PGu00A-I3TeArEPbacY5DmurhJE57SIkIk5GDnd99Y7ywKLk1x3ykPF3krurbMe5CwO8VaChDmfNX1q4BHKvpG8Lvp8Uq1vRKGprxRSKsarvwr2gHg6RiEvtp1_py8BqBNtBeQQEYuzJS10ahAs441TZHguF5uqo6yGRSfAZUkKIZJQ2JthFvuvo1dFNHDqxzTEQg7URX7TN5apzkQ3TyDLX72hymBpN_0MKPQYfi3xo2eD87rhElDy8RhoyIKpT3K2m6ZRZ00IFN9ygge3CJF0DZg1Hg7aSNoRJbBOMkiIyNk0NWc8Jrv62kgaYL0bGlA8flcpOVnwM2ae7vx7fjjJTZWZo6V8uzEBThzNZglUqzeT2aNrWniRSoyqGeh5PzKFwcyW34LEps2MzpxCTnMZZporshxPiz5nUadpkRFGJd44ZvdbXVYLU-rtZjdkjmpSLSOSEPHRM_uUDtKnUNvtVqNNJP3jOWSl3m4NZN_LQfFPSSa=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">ARCHERY CONTEST</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Why not show off your lady love your superior archery skills? After all, there’s always archery contests going on in fantasy worlds, right?</strong> Although, you may have to go in disguise since the entire thing is probably a trap and your enemies are watching. So if you want your lady to know it’s you, be sure to give her a heads-up. And if you do get caught, things can get messy. Not exactly much time for having a romantic date. But still, who wouldn’t enjoy a day out at an archery event?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/J_SRQUxn2Fh_5B8I-9Ytc_CMqn8QNV0k-ED0lKL0PcNlh7PMyjVs6BgO5n_I5MIre4OId3y9wodeZpNYYe6IsO-BdyP4YivfJgh28qeqY6Jk4Vsc7RI33gZwSt82fS1mN2nfEZbrL5x6BYg3IrqFKs4e7snom7tIpdB7r6LHc-K3xhWwYkV5FKp1ihCzDPL0Bf58Tc3oJlM4XDWgisOORmwZukzCqsoRpIMbyC5xKBV0LwWCoH-ec-BGyXnncLykAOGZMbCcXGwAo6mas8v0GM2VSkhANZWvxvOBE70D3HBEhVmGs93SnJQszDn4IIRTvwcMf2Q6qLA8Si5f5TbuuIhWCaAoCbSsk2IW-Ub1DTYnQNKUT_ffcuo2VDGltRYqMRhdaBJmad-RyXeLqVymaW8ryRRFwaGG57XQhx9ppsuUDV0zAqgqeiuzFXFTHdX-DIe0szP8kb5vX1vDAJg41Tmr6YPs3fJfSsGUYEmBfNnxMiTFBlzq-aWfZmHFZ8zqmqiimre6ODBNnACfRAzRFhHpICaxfJny8gM384pJsOrM-5OCVKtD46C1M4AxAf3iev5zjpMKI-quQ-y3GwWPBYZ336Pcyg_ccxdeF0nKICft6M1Kf1wJVy11J8cV9LDLQTWmuVjdRLDODY7iKMyhQ4nPsBLKUP-imH78MQwqtLM-VS1A-He91HWkFngTM55S6YBqiTBXyBNu393hoJcoH6Sl=w392-h294-no" width="350" height="265"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gdv_-R53EpoVY-Qlw7ew16OxIB20GGPuqfOE275qXzBvtM8Ga3KO76dURdpZik3kkTbeEvEpUHhvrFbZryYqKoN1HtfYjmUXZFan8tlq_L7TKw9c_es67YqOJuOpFOorg6rJwDnfgfxmIJYHmTMlfXq5SPfEr8IH_l3qAHM177onRJt9Y_rUckakw2LRTqupcXRPHUUgfIag_fHuHfNPtzBoTvjW7q2W1nGGi4PGu00A-I3TeArEPbacY5DmurhJE57SIkIk5GDnd99Y7ywKLk1x3ykPF3krurbMe5CwO8VaChDmfNX1q4BHKvpG8Lvp8Uq1vRKGprxRSKsarvwr2gHg6RiEvtp1_py8BqBNtBeQQEYuzJS10ahAs441TZHguF5uqo6yGRSfAZUkKIZJQ2JthFvuvo1dFNHDqxzTEQg7URX7TN5apzkQ3TyDLX72hymBpN_0MKPQYfi3xo2eD87rhElDy8RhoyIKpT3K2m6ZRZ00IFN9ygge3CJF0DZg1Hg7aSNoRJbBOMkiIyNk0NWc8Jrv62kgaYL0bGlA8flcpOVnwM2ae7vx7fjjJTZWZo6V8uzEBThzNZglUqzeT2aNrWniRSoyqGeh5PzKFwcyW34LEps2MzpxCTnMZZporshxPiz5nUadpkRFGJd44ZvdbXVYLU-rtZjdkjmpSLSOSEPHRM_uUDtKnUNvtVqNNJP3jOWSl3m4NZN_LQfFPSSa=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">LAND IN THE HEALING HOUSE</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Nothing like almost dying to truly capture the heart of your lass and get to spend some quality time together.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This is one of those ones that takes some extra steps and forethought though. Such as being shot with an arrow by one of the dark lord’s minions, mistaken for dead, and thus being thrust in a pyre by your psychotic father. But this is IMPORTANT. <strong>Make sure you befriend a wise wizard before doing <em>any</em> of this, so he can save you from the pyre.</strong> DON’T FORGET THIS STEP.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Alrighty. Now we’re good to go. <strong>After nearly dying, you’ll awake in the healing house and, lo and behold, there’s that beautiful lady whom you can woo.</strong> Because healing houses/hospitals/what-have-you are always the perfect backdrops for romantic dates.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ma3ZTLskHBcitk8Hz5W-4Jq_e9fZbbhI0lwyWz91MBvhuKYSsBc8Xmy6O5i_bDc2LLrD9QNWUnyug2vq3hU-13v-9Oo-JhczCuSj1wmmmwjqvL5I36E1TbIaiITTdSNcWytYZ1mG8DhifEl1ZacHcRdxDXAV0AQRuPL3Z9VrQXBczsIW1C3_NPu_LYU0_Zrb2txZymZwXYYX3nDuUaftKqiSJX0ducU05K-P3s-rv95S3wSucLEOceRU0drhrX98ntIhkW4iSjNEX1em-BM0BOLpBkT1J_SCkszn42CpsaeXxZUsvCLfprFJmEPrRu8rr-IbUC_J95EO7U6wlk7gdUKITFX39rWo2onG_6JyRjkCIdkf_7wxnRoTRsFqJN7FOXn1_5KlsijoUU-ejtN-7IRMglmkunDUHDd9C6Fbo-MwlYFt57VaN_DrpiC35Oe0Ix8yawvDEAX46x3ticqDUqUuzkeGlIaInBCtX7NFm4BDEOTP4UpFsqOQ4HmQHKGpiIc3MAOxIXy5HwrvbyVAihEaEXMVynRSkHK5NiB1hgWwUlAOc7G9rqMk1-ct-2Qd-BVAtzSKKUdm9tjwUCQ4KhgxVY3kIWPOjAKHqcq2kM41KqpX5P_wddIrQKvQ-l1GmkY1XN3JDjds6PbhLdEhBMXoCt95FgeDyMkqjjuUNT3bmHV6PHN0GKWkTzZZsEGC_dn-tGUIZefe6EFB-zN3_wG2=w245-h140-no" width="350" height="206"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gdv_-R53EpoVY-Qlw7ew16OxIB20GGPuqfOE275qXzBvtM8Ga3KO76dURdpZik3kkTbeEvEpUHhvrFbZryYqKoN1HtfYjmUXZFan8tlq_L7TKw9c_es67YqOJuOpFOorg6rJwDnfgfxmIJYHmTMlfXq5SPfEr8IH_l3qAHM177onRJt9Y_rUckakw2LRTqupcXRPHUUgfIag_fHuHfNPtzBoTvjW7q2W1nGGi4PGu00A-I3TeArEPbacY5DmurhJE57SIkIk5GDnd99Y7ywKLk1x3ykPF3krurbMe5CwO8VaChDmfNX1q4BHKvpG8Lvp8Uq1vRKGprxRSKsarvwr2gHg6RiEvtp1_py8BqBNtBeQQEYuzJS10ahAs441TZHguF5uqo6yGRSfAZUkKIZJQ2JthFvuvo1dFNHDqxzTEQg7URX7TN5apzkQ3TyDLX72hymBpN_0MKPQYfi3xo2eD87rhElDy8RhoyIKpT3K2m6ZRZ00IFN9ygge3CJF0DZg1Hg7aSNoRJbBOMkiIyNk0NWc8Jrv62kgaYL0bGlA8flcpOVnwM2ae7vx7fjjJTZWZo6V8uzEBThzNZglUqzeT2aNrWniRSoyqGeh5PzKFwcyW34LEps2MzpxCTnMZZporshxPiz5nUadpkRFGJd44ZvdbXVYLU-rtZjdkjmpSLSOSEPHRM_uUDtKnUNvtVqNNJP3jOWSl3m4NZN_LQfFPSSa=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">STORM THE CASTLE</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Maybe tea parties or magic carpet rides or singing under the floating lanterns isn’t your date’s style. No, your love has a much more adventurous side than all that. NO PROBLEM. I’ve got a solution for a guaranteed fun date night. <strong>Storming a castle!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Because, after all, you live in a fantasy world. <strong>And fantasy worlds are filled to the brim with castles ruled over by tyrannical kings and queens.</strong> You can’t swing a dead cat without hitting one. And hey, if you manage to succeed in storming the castle and taking down said tyrannical royal, you may end up being richly rewarded <em>or</em> become the ruler yourself and be able to afford an immensely expensive wedding and live happily ever after. I cannot see how this could go wrong.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Just be sure to have a wheelbarrow on hand. It’s a necessary tool for storming castles.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4o2UFR2RRUgBdIl0YwDn8jCZyA84msUxEVCX3V08b5e84BEswMWi2j_gAoKIzhK1guwYa5FU15WGgDAWrSIlv-OLVcZ3QT5CSgznLg6O97LAB5MWB2denUy9xVNoCECnoZtc3j80ArL-fFdbutgBnMs_YCXzgJg52vd8WotZT4iO-q1ZHtVPafOcPPTztgGLuwYL-DC_lPWpjr4HUgTNpatr1BU6iQYP38d4v7cF-xWS8YHRDoVd0I5OVxu_cfP3nVHPxCqa2ZbeHVsgkUmukmiaNxMrpTpTp7gjFFdiI6qXEa945hSLUME5ofcANMLSCmYuuiozlwNT8o41-HUpBB4u9kWQY0H4vx_eyci1iztwJWv3A5syDm5aMrPpt2UvtyVVvYnm2ch8M4qlcGFGlh0SM49vjZObquEXXPtbO420s7L9dtlUPuG-9pS4D8Y3QxmYHxMXGyjpFN84SYw5CYfqwvs8WIiKFSqsaZkCkmjetWdtW2QscnMr7VcYXaQwRhLcr1R-DoQqjHJymd5Tx0OYty05LVOLcOSNVx7iWUPuIqlt5-GxYL3spSfmRtSD88v47E3oBZ5-mjpG1KZ5KvH4ULzXBJv9ghx3DgwsSS27oPUYamuxvmYF3HUDNaqYg5UvsBHppH54P8bhtCHPHxwzKc6mYRi_AIB3ECu9YQO2bP2HJBpOURTZ8JyQ4udp1wOgmK_-bf0TQw1AYzWIUduX=w498-h218-no" width="400" height="180"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/gdv_-R53EpoVY-Qlw7ew16OxIB20GGPuqfOE275qXzBvtM8Ga3KO76dURdpZik3kkTbeEvEpUHhvrFbZryYqKoN1HtfYjmUXZFan8tlq_L7TKw9c_es67YqOJuOpFOorg6rJwDnfgfxmIJYHmTMlfXq5SPfEr8IH_l3qAHM177onRJt9Y_rUckakw2LRTqupcXRPHUUgfIag_fHuHfNPtzBoTvjW7q2W1nGGi4PGu00A-I3TeArEPbacY5DmurhJE57SIkIk5GDnd99Y7ywKLk1x3ykPF3krurbMe5CwO8VaChDmfNX1q4BHKvpG8Lvp8Uq1vRKGprxRSKsarvwr2gHg6RiEvtp1_py8BqBNtBeQQEYuzJS10ahAs441TZHguF5uqo6yGRSfAZUkKIZJQ2JthFvuvo1dFNHDqxzTEQg7URX7TN5apzkQ3TyDLX72hymBpN_0MKPQYfi3xo2eD87rhElDy8RhoyIKpT3K2m6ZRZ00IFN9ygge3CJF0DZg1Hg7aSNoRJbBOMkiIyNk0NWc8Jrv62kgaYL0bGlA8flcpOVnwM2ae7vx7fjjJTZWZo6V8uzEBThzNZglUqzeT2aNrWniRSoyqGeh5PzKFwcyW34LEps2MzpxCTnMZZporshxPiz5nUadpkRFGJd44ZvdbXVYLU-rtZjdkjmpSLSOSEPHRM_uUDtKnUNvtVqNNJP3jOWSl3m4NZN_LQfFPSSa=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">SAVE THE WORLD TOGETHER</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Perhaps none of these have captured you. After all, this is for the love of your life. You want to <em>really</em> make this Valentine’s Day special. Nothing but the best for your coo-chi coo-chi, woo-chi little chu-chi face, amirite? Never fear little teddy bear. I’ve got you covered.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Save the world together!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This <em>always</em> brings about absolute twue wuv. <strong>After all, there’s so much <em>time</em> to think about crushes and feelings and kissing when your entire world is in dire danger and only you can save it.</strong> And, since you live in a fantasy world, chances are it needs saving. As we discussed, tyrannical kings and queens and whatnot are running absolutely rampant.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>So grab your sword you learned how to use perfectly in a two minute montage, offer your arm to your fiery red-headed love of your life who probably hates you at first but will come to fall in love with you after you’ve both nearly died some half a dozen times, and go off and save the world! <strong>Because loooong, harrowing journeys and bloody battles is a fabulously romantic way to spend Valentine’s Day and truly fall in love.</strong> 10/10 recommend.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YUG3ucrvvReq0Hjmf80yxpra8GY1GZX4l2UeQRPw0npQ7WG1Gl-F6i5pKX5RFoB_G34pCPwZEhP_7zOCUVbLLO38hZoi39fHYeo8wsf6imBHcnBkgEsKWz2JG1LSYs7VcF5ONs7DubQq_SMqHob_N3oI5Hbpj_kI_KddA4kxtG1897w5kSRQuhftjU61vwMQO264YnZhvQ42HcwA8gJzWtwzm4h4P1OE3EPcsTYEOR-wkgnSUksfoxhR2V_cy9Xyvy3OLlnWg3p465nxDxbO5ZGK9_QY4UniD4H5XMkANrciEcMYQm5c3V0SH-0awXr5xpLkDTGacShNRzFFGR_DStyiDcOYSaLUvqDg56GQE6U40K-1ROpCsFxaEvdLzon5W01T7GU0zZltCyJ-teNS4_d85A2UeoGC1GQlzNtJgZffIVxAZTmnqRKqF-adTiD_ZrtupSluNLbuajtMkIWvIBBqqSLh3HI4_TzhyBNsQ-hPh0W0N1GBzEOxkDK05r9_wqYTk9uJOj_GCeADefSmui8IOxx2Xz2UIMFAD1J64HvAoDXxZnxZXJMziLQ3QdEtl4PddnddyAgPrpAQ--JOJKPXFZ8HsxZccIuvQx6Ocf-JzcZOtUN6rFoun3jhxo3f31O0L7aXCI4-9-3S6gozdNu9WImzMx7d97-doGsQlSD6Yky-SOTAie8rPWfZiEnwZlejt1v7zKy-esr8O6UnJHaV=w500-h281-no" width="335" height="191"><font size="2">(I know this isn’t a fantasy story. Shhh.)</font></p>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/F5V5O9D3iY-mMTkDcJoWWu1-tTFP4yhax2Gktyw-qsZMKGOMqYDyF53qrT7-VlqWmJ1SHtingG-dNr3JcmZafiJv77CLt2X0srcNuZ50hkK2P0r6rIbp-Ei1wKCehjmnpnagQO_6VmrRgbv3ATmOdLgcB6ULFaGvyIn-q8ZzEzV_cy9aPM6pro5vBxxPBR5BKaC4DoMjK5AuWP0spwAPkp3iUNqcdp8IuV_Vv7UNYghy0r6IztzeeK-PhmywZClY9AMg5_x5WQqOjPqhthiSqX0hS4LII-ducd7mUz3X5DBwyTieuAu6l62gIhgehrKB0m12UdWW-WArIqdO-yzxFLKiWcdyBC2d0HxCyCQbWj1AKuzxj9yRpQNHOi4aXwfv0z59ivSLcqhsy-fOOFkUKzRcLednSrAZSNEuG7YTvyEgNVUyMaZ48fzOzxt9TYaGyilFVqfViurIPyV4kOhbJQrVvRB5xvL-6Crpvre5rVD9fLuGkU47U483yV32QCFQ-SQj4J9Qo-kbDml-41YEt0UIW-0gCfx_iBpZVZ4BY6w2wjwirRdLpN71H94mZHMML6vF1xgyCoi3j2fdyD1p11BtNZHJS4whX1j3bi274Uslj7unu3g5fXbfI97BpV_ueDWfehmjGhD6M3OdiCj5siAhEuIr4WwXPmqvtQIPKYnJi-4v37nMZq6KmIT61spFyqUOm_ScSOJulARtd0cad1w3=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101">
<p align="justify"><br>There you are, my fantasy dwellers. No more fear of not being able to provide a truly memorable Valentine’s date. Who needs cards and flowers from Winn-Dixie anyway when there’s castles to storms and dragons to ride?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5r_KOjRGFzPp0FGChf2xuvT6OiJ2IpgTCXSmUF5QB33B5HcsOuxGF2ZyMEZ68Zup8TKJhMW-_IELsQgzCa82yZR-OCcYZQhNBqFToS_E8FbPSEeKUbcC73WZV6RE-Ck4eQMWT4Z1c5VQrKLH9OvE1rjsyyxMNEjo4pnIEt8sV3atDmbTbc6kwmI36PzMtq8Dj_tkfue4kGvb2Sy6dLl5tF8kG5ML4_BgYoCDCY3CyMnLDM_fd7IDs2cXeat78kTpyP139mrcO6-7OtNCN6H2XtfynwZx1V-avgG7SDmv0PTur7o0crHoJvVP1spVYKKDGsd3OAT1X_jehUQRcWfxh-L7kwhsaL_0CH6MMzuPH69fGyFSUM-RyYZB95M_jzckEsrxy9doimuoTWv7rejvM2-kLalUQg6W7zVcQTPhSmanbaZ3oVG53ePy_beGyUguKhxqmYQe3b0z4CQ_LzUpigreyGzYQoQ-CXrA7tPgWZB7KEONU804FhCij_REStO8jIZ3lNBVyVnMY8z2ZrksXlnpdemazXBxwhUOPpvDYUgowuZkkpYpsYrZcQzTYnKPBMOcV8ORfRfSuTsQ6s8fTIOL89DwkjOg8cSRk1u8WmcOa1xMPuLfbu2cRp8S21zE8wseDpcy4WeyAd1nxXS1MdGid_H5YcgMehfRqIAi-WY8iGmjrlItAgAFddhPHaUUtnuRJGfc24xWGfvjWLRSWMsb=w459-h254-no" width="400" height="225"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/NYwEgxb7ph3V9TNr6ghwA8HVbRK1drHptmD946ZCM12s24TdFr739ClhJXrp1NphmBsKtEWtgnAigwBcGUw7RCeJlKvi1UMaGQtwJFYvH-m2a5C0LwbtR_SOh4z9YAYlaPqExZ3kKAIQCBxqGGIInMKY4uCjHDY39NCupAfcLDsy4XKblVaX2dmbqcs87zzSVFhsCzt13JEXuRu53DVWixLC-Xg8Td4s8Mv5LJx5GbZBTTlN21YA8DGpKTufIHYOpy6zasGkQKOCV3kbi1742AYHPJ2IVC7F_Fz4UKhV_437dK6ceDEKTyEDTcN4EvuFEeQ5IJAayBUR7pQ3VBcyIMPJxyab3tRoIwRSOgbeZLcTgX3QL5rHwBxTG_B0i6OLBK7yNl2Fc0o3ousaBLC_vyLJVPyCkLurKr4OR7kUTCdnDe-gPs301lsVMHckDdyEqjRkX0wodogperKflGd9KlFeSMAbLoPhyiVJrxmtdzowNmqdO-KFY9KoHbElG6iGcx9V5LB-IpjLCt12GsVgI8HE7qztTub8TWrP9H6vw_FMVCIYsd_MIWn184wI-lUvLV8O1vff2VS-RE6LrYG0Ta6rETJWng5ANaaEMOBV5KZu0mxMzFZ7P4AU25jCk1WMqKZBepytryy1lTAN_eegPU1zaaHTZgko5S-QwQJtkQujH4AyfemqZi4aEKF1fgM57WDf4lq_f2iABYaepZ36nj53=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="5">Which of these dates would <em>you</em> like to go on the most? <font size="4">(I’m partial to dragon riding and Neverland myself.)</font> And do you have anymore suggestions for a fantasy Valentine’s date? Please add to my list! We gotta help these fantasy lads out after all. ;)</font></p></blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="3"><strong>P.S.</strong> For more fantasy fun, </font><a href="http://jenelleschmidt.com/" target="_blank"><font size="3">Jenelle Schmidt</font></a><font size="3"> is hosting February is Fantasy Month over on her blog. There’s a hashtag game, a tag, and a ton of posts featuring all things fantasy! Check out </font><a href="http://jenelleschmidt.com/fantasy-month-tour-schedule/" target="_blank"><font size="3">THIS POST</font></a></font><font size="3"> for details! (My post isn’t part of the lineup or anything, I just thought you guys would like to know about it.)</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-5984843883166895632019-02-04T12:28:00.001-06:002019-02-04T12:28:42.411-06:00The Language of Worlds - Syram<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ueGIuIYajBO3IANBep4zPOQtHZS0FOaf6tEUrtjca1RqJBL_ARFVWDS4HNvOntThGB_7oL2xMw9Agr0AGgGQV-Z45Dl772tyeQQxd-HtjRVsSHUy_fxP8UfLnqEFzMXZYe0n2kaqkm8ywrwjIN8udXkaJEV1qkal6wf7uw5WaZaNQbvg7-3iftZOT4u15RgD52H8aWO9aEFRh0vlywWYzwvfY1IuZm6kpNBPK4U4xaNs7Yunjniqzfzrf5mrPESQulhCBhtVKHHj44KxgyDXtVBS8bizdfahPcebGSnTyUqOymECIjzb2vZH2z0gyMKCrjxmKxrL9lnyW2FhHxGvI-iXB5oU5qmDfB2jUTHz4I69w4ZHp6tRTNfwFwDucRslZKSc8YHqzfVgFavpY5--lA5ZrGrpAOxHH6JV6XPHf2PBss44yJ4-BP_4zzAPW5O11Vt7J2NTgLUHpwgJrylqiIxjSkEYqzd2L5o7sc4_6Q4XssVwW-sGgN6EJs4G4IfygBg4cSntGLmDpPSwDvwAw6x2tz7aSzysbyGJxI6QNukH9FueYjg2NubaWYRKZHMk0dojZonmM0Lsp7PfEfYfj8gNhXk8F1nhczKEK9W2Zf8ek0eIUIm3ShelimtcEUGQq8MmbNXKSHkqGok8jldbJH8jKHD2z5mFDrjMoTbbWyzLnAz5vlvcbLjB1HKgJaK9TwpHhCGpRjXonH_n7g=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">Language of Worlds is back! <font size="4">*happy dance*</font> If you have no idea what I’m talking about, you can find all the info </font></strong><a href="http://livkfisher.blogspot.com/p/the-language-of-worlds.html" target="_blank"><strong><font size="5">HERE</font></strong></a><strong><font size="5">. But essentially, it’s a linkup created by the ever lovely </font></strong><a href="http://livkfisher.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><strong><font size="5">Liv K. Fisher</font></strong></a>,<strong><font size="5"> catered toward speculative Christian writers <font size="4">(though <em>anyone</em> is welcome to join in!)</font> and asks ten questions about any character of our choosing.</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I debated who to answer the questions for, because technically I’m shifting my focus back on <em>Burning Thorns</em> as I gear to do this next edit. Buuuut I talk about those characters a LOT. So I decided, at least for today, to revisit my NaNoWriMo novel, <em>Kings Bleed Gold </em><font size="2">(yeah, I know I promised I was finally done with NaNo-related posts until next NaNo but…apparently not! bwahahaha)</font>.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>The main reason for this is because I totally wanted an excuse to do a post on Syram, my child. I already did a Language of Worlds post for <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/08/the-language-of-worlds-linkup-my-new-wip.html" target="_blank">Midas</a> and <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/the-language-of-worlds-korinna.html" target="_blank">Korinna</a>, and it was totally not fair I never did one for the third part of my trio. My cinnamon roll boi Syram deserves some love so HERE WE ARE.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://livkfisher.blogspot.com/2019/01/the-language-of-worlds-linkup-new-years.html" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/80msU2BgrBVeQM1TwvFuQqlOjGOWPsJVuqJgdA4nD1RVPZZm7KKQIznugOxoAjs5APsmowDsYkOhQ8QqroYH96l2fbuCjtaXvLAJMvuLG6koCKi1Wz6u40Z3w4doG5_So8kl5r9Nx5oOjyGbAuNb7WoDs3EZisl1PuEuJNkPPjOf5-gCnymKIYx3jVsCx424XD2cg6ARZns-NKrqSofUNYq00vMh0jkb9_8sRUL110Z6RFxYv4tyXE4yHs1uYDhkLSRTg5KKVWcrA-ZOLzySmbFSvQP70lnJNiy7zJXwGX448BP3KAJpO_JR7STdeJgD86vj93CxTUtyCc6G-tYhMIXydYJzkHjJkv6rwBzPbqckHi-pKtt7ZtCwQiN2m5Wnxb_9UeHjHqNGLZDOe_EJLqbKKKp2UfMeW8DnBAATnS2V8lU6JdZ8f7WAKnGoXuaZqCsVpqY38Brck-YC9TxXC8NnCeJHpn12nUG1jSri9IPfZlCsy0B8BxzmqFogucOD0to64NMKiIa-7fldHkz0sRCzNkaCCSTzddOws0-YG_x7E0jPKiUBhtkrRJXiGNcHJbFFROzHsGvO3Tl8jTs12hmE7LYJ_VgtNIsw5uHJ_vDw__QzQ0mtIvucwszYM5hLTCHLSko5xuBLLCa7e8AEH__qD2mggskmkqGk0rBo-Q3WfZ8PQ_-Cjd2F2F8uvroyG78vYGX4EcmpImSX9A=s800-no" width="450" height="450"></a><font size="3">You can join in on the linkup </font><a href="http://livkfisher.blogspot.com/2019/01/the-language-of-worlds-linkup-new-years.html" target="_blank"><font size="3">HERE</font></a><font size="3">.</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><br><img style="display: block" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fN5DW2SSLg8sh5zAQgK-I_qbDPmoHVHFiE5DdDlzvpsWuV7SU2pCv7VL-4oZW__50hWmBxpz8-1wiuMrj1D1ZTYHjA0XNDhHqwG11Y7U2-vV-Taw8S5OIU4su64lGnlJUTmZStwY49I0VtbNn_dA154Xg8EzE3Awhz3LA4DeyMpz9JyYuQ8lnc0oSCc9IBRbow-7v4dAO9IVpjYqLPSTAaPOMqMOujtYe6qYlWO0eyOJbz0PtcM_lmkZRNfV4L-5_KSKz0YZtweXcIGUMrE6qAoTLS36BvwRfH2AAe43lhuaiRfRDJ48QiYH4Eyg8vu6vlV4h5-jzB2Sc3hKdqwFIVtizYHp5OiH5ZoUbNBsa8brxxg_nZOBfd_PxHgLNwp0ByEQ3kbSOr_4Oz0tEqnmk1qNusA1UFcXrgAoz07j_ECpt5TJFt7WUYKL0nWR_mflzUspyV0bec-xYjMQEYxlLSine98NhVyDOEpzTk2mqzGyLh896F3Z5WNj_ohipTfOE1UH-vLd66V8KgyqwRRYQMwFMN7VcFIciz9h6TVYuKKlrpqt7j6RPbmb2637VcxND6BjYBX4lZs-9V7SSyTX0ny_6hqJScUYulYTfvqvRNSsBv6JE2-9dRIvhWhdqcVST24rC46Oi_C5aZ71u8nGdv9AqnzHXi7rcJs3fLb7xqMgPp8GXQbrTPMqEYzgSdmj0jxLfDASzfgKi9a_Jw=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">SYRAM</font></p>
<p align="justify"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/395683517258844240/" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/i1pxklkvD3TxIDDPZCkIa2KecXeg9DVNU7rVUyZsPGsvnaF0y_ysAzyTz2TTVlg0D6nd7GERy6YLEZU-ptcrhPoS1KPE3SLh_3sjoJc4YKf-je4grgOWjiZ--H6sJ8J7fybZpGnjB3qB3Mcj7sNBOmecD5I6s5xWtBw02p_0jvI1Z2e29t7zq-Pq53EPLxSgMieBjTF_bs83GHpCoyzck00vcfo7k2dopHzE_0aqtplLmekzZMbLmj0Wz6RBDnE5m9XMzrwIH7Vq3YITuS_wFfcToUQUAAI-YoUmBpDNCyfCkoK3hOdqV2zHOlefW0RdxkIbU5zoYp5bzYVHnNgH9Orvpb8ZPP7JLR2TfoRcY9hZWjUY5gt5UPIxuXzJrQmjBdhIRC6eZPDw70vkBJ-hqx5ffHl2LeCF063rJJ2h3n1ZTvcbFrwVK2CuVchEYO6ZwzVCOJPOkIhmyJyqURwnOKLiI05y0lRc_VGUx0oquteNibwGPvTA9fLVjXxtEMsptqhGrnvZ4OysvRK8GSM_B2YP5-1hPz1iNj5knBtbgY2IjalzpzXibpJD6eNpmRE2Jl3XVYiVOX-cQhnBw9ueBqjd1eh8UkayjcSRDhh5Th4q-QFQ67dQfMhD_28hXqHzZJJw_tt-Ji53caTnwGuAHlqhS5Rxd3sPCpKSDlKzQ9rSwdW3Yrx8GPNXuf-8RmTPsWcCgn1GF8dgJ5f45A=w400-h571-no" width="300" height="425"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fN5DW2SSLg8sh5zAQgK-I_qbDPmoHVHFiE5DdDlzvpsWuV7SU2pCv7VL-4oZW__50hWmBxpz8-1wiuMrj1D1ZTYHjA0XNDhHqwG11Y7U2-vV-Taw8S5OIU4su64lGnlJUTmZStwY49I0VtbNn_dA154Xg8EzE3Awhz3LA4DeyMpz9JyYuQ8lnc0oSCc9IBRbow-7v4dAO9IVpjYqLPSTAaPOMqMOujtYe6qYlWO0eyOJbz0PtcM_lmkZRNfV4L-5_KSKz0YZtweXcIGUMrE6qAoTLS36BvwRfH2AAe43lhuaiRfRDJ48QiYH4Eyg8vu6vlV4h5-jzB2Sc3hKdqwFIVtizYHp5OiH5ZoUbNBsa8brxxg_nZOBfd_PxHgLNwp0ByEQ3kbSOr_4Oz0tEqnmk1qNusA1UFcXrgAoz07j_ECpt5TJFt7WUYKL0nWR_mflzUspyV0bec-xYjMQEYxlLSine98NhVyDOEpzTk2mqzGyLh896F3Z5WNj_ohipTfOE1UH-vLd66V8KgyqwRRYQMwFMN7VcFIciz9h6TVYuKKlrpqt7j6RPbmb2637VcxND6BjYBX4lZs-9V7SSyTX0ny_6hqJScUYulYTfvqvRNSsBv6JE2-9dRIvhWhdqcVST24rC46Oi_C5aZ71u8nGdv9AqnzHXi7rcJs3fLb7xqMgPp8GXQbrTPMqEYzgSdmj0jxLfDASzfgKi9a_Jw=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9tF8E17oXQaDkn68PA6h5tPTHaI4SEwF7A7r570loyVCn8eKlF0hXlvsaIl2SWLYAePqp3RwXZDkVglUHxY9La4lIBoQMChitwclQlMOlMHAiULSsedwEt4F4stdatNlPoOvwOBrvN20MKUrMNMa7QV_r5iBg_3E_poDiN8Nw3bJfxNm1N6edHQIwVGXd85jHRFy4_b3-rc7TBDgyCSqzxTvpfAOyAQZt2rW_f733L8Nn3zRZ51Wn_7vHvgrRKiI-Y8fXCksnzmC3yP5zhJXMLOJ9PAN19k02xSggeEBunk5xTudMUlanIRdOGIPTCeRxgUPjjCPbJo_71sg2ROCRCT4XWrRIGKoP71GSGRZPh3LNKagrw6jmpJamGXcfiOcADdxMI1121jnSLFtDDbuaFthq9onVcxF_JwUZR2rEzK2ExLRE4m3XZAySwhVWt-qXnCUX8Y4sxkl_AbvhU0Jd7nZKV9uT-TejNwblAOB8T2EesD7ijsrRoOKyeuzGrungkYUFbyHLqPFBeblZHz9GZHcmvrQu_zSq3raD8luuWs0hiwZlbJpex57EoTuMXOZwIeFn_S2HGWsl1LDDpx9lUJWIECiA4bs1eupHtzVxIhiKBLSPWIEwgwhAeDjMmw18J473-Ym55GQvxikQoZrrMs0AnhQ2cXOChAQhqGneua7EqabJ9CYpSvcnNc78twXdCp3S64t7V6cSkHFJQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">1.) In five words or less, how would you describe your character?</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5">Strange // Quiet // Kind // Loyal // Melancholy</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9tF8E17oXQaDkn68PA6h5tPTHaI4SEwF7A7r570loyVCn8eKlF0hXlvsaIl2SWLYAePqp3RwXZDkVglUHxY9La4lIBoQMChitwclQlMOlMHAiULSsedwEt4F4stdatNlPoOvwOBrvN20MKUrMNMa7QV_r5iBg_3E_poDiN8Nw3bJfxNm1N6edHQIwVGXd85jHRFy4_b3-rc7TBDgyCSqzxTvpfAOyAQZt2rW_f733L8Nn3zRZ51Wn_7vHvgrRKiI-Y8fXCksnzmC3yP5zhJXMLOJ9PAN19k02xSggeEBunk5xTudMUlanIRdOGIPTCeRxgUPjjCPbJo_71sg2ROCRCT4XWrRIGKoP71GSGRZPh3LNKagrw6jmpJamGXcfiOcADdxMI1121jnSLFtDDbuaFthq9onVcxF_JwUZR2rEzK2ExLRE4m3XZAySwhVWt-qXnCUX8Y4sxkl_AbvhU0Jd7nZKV9uT-TejNwblAOB8T2EesD7ijsrRoOKyeuzGrungkYUFbyHLqPFBeblZHz9GZHcmvrQu_zSq3raD8luuWs0hiwZlbJpex57EoTuMXOZwIeFn_S2HGWsl1LDDpx9lUJWIECiA4bs1eupHtzVxIhiKBLSPWIEwgwhAeDjMmw18J473-Ym55GQvxikQoZrrMs0AnhQ2cXOChAQhqGneua7EqabJ9CYpSvcnNc78twXdCp3S64t7V6cSkHFJQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">2.) When do they see an opportunity for self-improvement?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This is delving into deep, deep spoilers so we’re gonna be vague here. But let’s just say Syram’s life isn’t all fluff and peaches, and he got to a <em>very</em> low spot where he felt as if his life was empty and pointless. But he decided showing kindness to others was the best way to beat back his depression.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>When he first met Korinna, he smuggled a book out of the dragons’ library to give to her when she was scared. Ever since, he found these small acts of kindness gave him purpose. His philosophy is that everyone’s purpose in life is to do good, even if it’s little things.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Which just happened to segue right into the next question…</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9tF8E17oXQaDkn68PA6h5tPTHaI4SEwF7A7r570loyVCn8eKlF0hXlvsaIl2SWLYAePqp3RwXZDkVglUHxY9La4lIBoQMChitwclQlMOlMHAiULSsedwEt4F4stdatNlPoOvwOBrvN20MKUrMNMa7QV_r5iBg_3E_poDiN8Nw3bJfxNm1N6edHQIwVGXd85jHRFy4_b3-rc7TBDgyCSqzxTvpfAOyAQZt2rW_f733L8Nn3zRZ51Wn_7vHvgrRKiI-Y8fXCksnzmC3yP5zhJXMLOJ9PAN19k02xSggeEBunk5xTudMUlanIRdOGIPTCeRxgUPjjCPbJo_71sg2ROCRCT4XWrRIGKoP71GSGRZPh3LNKagrw6jmpJamGXcfiOcADdxMI1121jnSLFtDDbuaFthq9onVcxF_JwUZR2rEzK2ExLRE4m3XZAySwhVWt-qXnCUX8Y4sxkl_AbvhU0Jd7nZKV9uT-TejNwblAOB8T2EesD7ijsrRoOKyeuzGrungkYUFbyHLqPFBeblZHz9GZHcmvrQu_zSq3raD8luuWs0hiwZlbJpex57EoTuMXOZwIeFn_S2HGWsl1LDDpx9lUJWIECiA4bs1eupHtzVxIhiKBLSPWIEwgwhAeDjMmw18J473-Ym55GQvxikQoZrrMs0AnhQ2cXOChAQhqGneua7EqabJ9CYpSvcnNc78twXdCp3S64t7V6cSkHFJQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">3.) How do they view themself (good, evil, neutral, etc.)?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Good. Or…striving to reach goodness, more accurately.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9tF8E17oXQaDkn68PA6h5tPTHaI4SEwF7A7r570loyVCn8eKlF0hXlvsaIl2SWLYAePqp3RwXZDkVglUHxY9La4lIBoQMChitwclQlMOlMHAiULSsedwEt4F4stdatNlPoOvwOBrvN20MKUrMNMa7QV_r5iBg_3E_poDiN8Nw3bJfxNm1N6edHQIwVGXd85jHRFy4_b3-rc7TBDgyCSqzxTvpfAOyAQZt2rW_f733L8Nn3zRZ51Wn_7vHvgrRKiI-Y8fXCksnzmC3yP5zhJXMLOJ9PAN19k02xSggeEBunk5xTudMUlanIRdOGIPTCeRxgUPjjCPbJo_71sg2ROCRCT4XWrRIGKoP71GSGRZPh3LNKagrw6jmpJamGXcfiOcADdxMI1121jnSLFtDDbuaFthq9onVcxF_JwUZR2rEzK2ExLRE4m3XZAySwhVWt-qXnCUX8Y4sxkl_AbvhU0Jd7nZKV9uT-TejNwblAOB8T2EesD7ijsrRoOKyeuzGrungkYUFbyHLqPFBeblZHz9GZHcmvrQu_zSq3raD8luuWs0hiwZlbJpex57EoTuMXOZwIeFn_S2HGWsl1LDDpx9lUJWIECiA4bs1eupHtzVxIhiKBLSPWIEwgwhAeDjMmw18J473-Ym55GQvxikQoZrrMs0AnhQ2cXOChAQhqGneua7EqabJ9CYpSvcnNc78twXdCp3S64t7V6cSkHFJQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">4.) Is there a story that inspires them? What is it?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Okay, but these questions are so perfect for him. Not only is Syram a complete bookworm, but a big part of the novel and his arc has to do with a myth he loves.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>His favorite story is a myth about a great fairy who faced an enormous sea monster. But instead of choosing to kill the monster with his spear, the fairy bent the spear, hooked it around the sea monster’s neck, and leapt to the stars where they’re trapped forever and now hang in the sky as constellations. Syram loves it because the fairy chose to be trapped in the stars forever instead of taking the beasts’ life. That kind of selfless bravery inspires him.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9tF8E17oXQaDkn68PA6h5tPTHaI4SEwF7A7r570loyVCn8eKlF0hXlvsaIl2SWLYAePqp3RwXZDkVglUHxY9La4lIBoQMChitwclQlMOlMHAiULSsedwEt4F4stdatNlPoOvwOBrvN20MKUrMNMa7QV_r5iBg_3E_poDiN8Nw3bJfxNm1N6edHQIwVGXd85jHRFy4_b3-rc7TBDgyCSqzxTvpfAOyAQZt2rW_f733L8Nn3zRZ51Wn_7vHvgrRKiI-Y8fXCksnzmC3yP5zhJXMLOJ9PAN19k02xSggeEBunk5xTudMUlanIRdOGIPTCeRxgUPjjCPbJo_71sg2ROCRCT4XWrRIGKoP71GSGRZPh3LNKagrw6jmpJamGXcfiOcADdxMI1121jnSLFtDDbuaFthq9onVcxF_JwUZR2rEzK2ExLRE4m3XZAySwhVWt-qXnCUX8Y4sxkl_AbvhU0Jd7nZKV9uT-TejNwblAOB8T2EesD7ijsrRoOKyeuzGrungkYUFbyHLqPFBeblZHz9GZHcmvrQu_zSq3raD8luuWs0hiwZlbJpex57EoTuMXOZwIeFn_S2HGWsl1LDDpx9lUJWIECiA4bs1eupHtzVxIhiKBLSPWIEwgwhAeDjMmw18J473-Ym55GQvxikQoZrrMs0AnhQ2cXOChAQhqGneua7EqabJ9CYpSvcnNc78twXdCp3S64t7V6cSkHFJQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">5.) What proverb or quote do they identify with?</font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font><em><font size="5">Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.</font></em><br>Proverbs 3:27</p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9tF8E17oXQaDkn68PA6h5tPTHaI4SEwF7A7r570loyVCn8eKlF0hXlvsaIl2SWLYAePqp3RwXZDkVglUHxY9La4lIBoQMChitwclQlMOlMHAiULSsedwEt4F4stdatNlPoOvwOBrvN20MKUrMNMa7QV_r5iBg_3E_poDiN8Nw3bJfxNm1N6edHQIwVGXd85jHRFy4_b3-rc7TBDgyCSqzxTvpfAOyAQZt2rW_f733L8Nn3zRZ51Wn_7vHvgrRKiI-Y8fXCksnzmC3yP5zhJXMLOJ9PAN19k02xSggeEBunk5xTudMUlanIRdOGIPTCeRxgUPjjCPbJo_71sg2ROCRCT4XWrRIGKoP71GSGRZPh3LNKagrw6jmpJamGXcfiOcADdxMI1121jnSLFtDDbuaFthq9onVcxF_JwUZR2rEzK2ExLRE4m3XZAySwhVWt-qXnCUX8Y4sxkl_AbvhU0Jd7nZKV9uT-TejNwblAOB8T2EesD7ijsrRoOKyeuzGrungkYUFbyHLqPFBeblZHz9GZHcmvrQu_zSq3raD8luuWs0hiwZlbJpex57EoTuMXOZwIeFn_S2HGWsl1LDDpx9lUJWIECiA4bs1eupHtzVxIhiKBLSPWIEwgwhAeDjMmw18J473-Ym55GQvxikQoZrrMs0AnhQ2cXOChAQhqGneua7EqabJ9CYpSvcnNc78twXdCp3S64t7V6cSkHFJQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">6.) What does their standard day look like?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Syram pretty much just loiters about the underground world of the dragons. You can often find him in the library, or laboring out in the farm area, or hiding in some secret caverns he found.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>He likes to hang out with Korinna, but she’s usually too busy being, well, a slave to talk. The other slaves pretty much ignore him, so he’s very lonely. When Midas comes around, Syram happily finds a friend in him and helps Midas with his laboring as much as he can.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9tF8E17oXQaDkn68PA6h5tPTHaI4SEwF7A7r570loyVCn8eKlF0hXlvsaIl2SWLYAePqp3RwXZDkVglUHxY9La4lIBoQMChitwclQlMOlMHAiULSsedwEt4F4stdatNlPoOvwOBrvN20MKUrMNMa7QV_r5iBg_3E_poDiN8Nw3bJfxNm1N6edHQIwVGXd85jHRFy4_b3-rc7TBDgyCSqzxTvpfAOyAQZt2rW_f733L8Nn3zRZ51Wn_7vHvgrRKiI-Y8fXCksnzmC3yP5zhJXMLOJ9PAN19k02xSggeEBunk5xTudMUlanIRdOGIPTCeRxgUPjjCPbJo_71sg2ROCRCT4XWrRIGKoP71GSGRZPh3LNKagrw6jmpJamGXcfiOcADdxMI1121jnSLFtDDbuaFthq9onVcxF_JwUZR2rEzK2ExLRE4m3XZAySwhVWt-qXnCUX8Y4sxkl_AbvhU0Jd7nZKV9uT-TejNwblAOB8T2EesD7ijsrRoOKyeuzGrungkYUFbyHLqPFBeblZHz9GZHcmvrQu_zSq3raD8luuWs0hiwZlbJpex57EoTuMXOZwIeFn_S2HGWsl1LDDpx9lUJWIECiA4bs1eupHtzVxIhiKBLSPWIEwgwhAeDjMmw18J473-Ym55GQvxikQoZrrMs0AnhQ2cXOChAQhqGneua7EqabJ9CYpSvcnNc78twXdCp3S64t7V6cSkHFJQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">7.) When they picture their ideal day, how does it go?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Heh. An ideal day is a foreign concept to Syram. <font size="2">(I’m so nice.)</font> Going above the underground and gazing freely at the clear sky, feeling the sun on his face, and studying the stars is definitely his greatest wish. But one he knows is impossible.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="3">(Don’t you love how I’m giving you guys no indication as to <em>why</em> Syram lives in this weird underground world and what his purpose is? That’s totally intentional. Spoilers and all that. *grins*)</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9tF8E17oXQaDkn68PA6h5tPTHaI4SEwF7A7r570loyVCn8eKlF0hXlvsaIl2SWLYAePqp3RwXZDkVglUHxY9La4lIBoQMChitwclQlMOlMHAiULSsedwEt4F4stdatNlPoOvwOBrvN20MKUrMNMa7QV_r5iBg_3E_poDiN8Nw3bJfxNm1N6edHQIwVGXd85jHRFy4_b3-rc7TBDgyCSqzxTvpfAOyAQZt2rW_f733L8Nn3zRZ51Wn_7vHvgrRKiI-Y8fXCksnzmC3yP5zhJXMLOJ9PAN19k02xSggeEBunk5xTudMUlanIRdOGIPTCeRxgUPjjCPbJo_71sg2ROCRCT4XWrRIGKoP71GSGRZPh3LNKagrw6jmpJamGXcfiOcADdxMI1121jnSLFtDDbuaFthq9onVcxF_JwUZR2rEzK2ExLRE4m3XZAySwhVWt-qXnCUX8Y4sxkl_AbvhU0Jd7nZKV9uT-TejNwblAOB8T2EesD7ijsrRoOKyeuzGrungkYUFbyHLqPFBeblZHz9GZHcmvrQu_zSq3raD8luuWs0hiwZlbJpex57EoTuMXOZwIeFn_S2HGWsl1LDDpx9lUJWIECiA4bs1eupHtzVxIhiKBLSPWIEwgwhAeDjMmw18J473-Ym55GQvxikQoZrrMs0AnhQ2cXOChAQhqGneua7EqabJ9CYpSvcnNc78twXdCp3S64t7V6cSkHFJQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">8.) Do they have a favorite memory? If so, what happened?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>The day he gave a book to Korinna when she was first enslaved underground, and he witnessed his little act transform a terrified girl’s fear and despair to hope, changed his life. It is a memory that has stayed with him forever, and one that keeps him on his pursuit of goodness.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9tF8E17oXQaDkn68PA6h5tPTHaI4SEwF7A7r570loyVCn8eKlF0hXlvsaIl2SWLYAePqp3RwXZDkVglUHxY9La4lIBoQMChitwclQlMOlMHAiULSsedwEt4F4stdatNlPoOvwOBrvN20MKUrMNMa7QV_r5iBg_3E_poDiN8Nw3bJfxNm1N6edHQIwVGXd85jHRFy4_b3-rc7TBDgyCSqzxTvpfAOyAQZt2rW_f733L8Nn3zRZ51Wn_7vHvgrRKiI-Y8fXCksnzmC3yP5zhJXMLOJ9PAN19k02xSggeEBunk5xTudMUlanIRdOGIPTCeRxgUPjjCPbJo_71sg2ROCRCT4XWrRIGKoP71GSGRZPh3LNKagrw6jmpJamGXcfiOcADdxMI1121jnSLFtDDbuaFthq9onVcxF_JwUZR2rEzK2ExLRE4m3XZAySwhVWt-qXnCUX8Y4sxkl_AbvhU0Jd7nZKV9uT-TejNwblAOB8T2EesD7ijsrRoOKyeuzGrungkYUFbyHLqPFBeblZHz9GZHcmvrQu_zSq3raD8luuWs0hiwZlbJpex57EoTuMXOZwIeFn_S2HGWsl1LDDpx9lUJWIECiA4bs1eupHtzVxIhiKBLSPWIEwgwhAeDjMmw18J473-Ym55GQvxikQoZrrMs0AnhQ2cXOChAQhqGneua7EqabJ9CYpSvcnNc78twXdCp3S64t7V6cSkHFJQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">9.) Where do they see themself in five years?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Erm. If we’re talking about near the beginning of the book, then exactly where he is. Stuck in the underground and under the cruel reign of the dragons. Fun stuff.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9tF8E17oXQaDkn68PA6h5tPTHaI4SEwF7A7r570loyVCn8eKlF0hXlvsaIl2SWLYAePqp3RwXZDkVglUHxY9La4lIBoQMChitwclQlMOlMHAiULSsedwEt4F4stdatNlPoOvwOBrvN20MKUrMNMa7QV_r5iBg_3E_poDiN8Nw3bJfxNm1N6edHQIwVGXd85jHRFy4_b3-rc7TBDgyCSqzxTvpfAOyAQZt2rW_f733L8Nn3zRZ51Wn_7vHvgrRKiI-Y8fXCksnzmC3yP5zhJXMLOJ9PAN19k02xSggeEBunk5xTudMUlanIRdOGIPTCeRxgUPjjCPbJo_71sg2ROCRCT4XWrRIGKoP71GSGRZPh3LNKagrw6jmpJamGXcfiOcADdxMI1121jnSLFtDDbuaFthq9onVcxF_JwUZR2rEzK2ExLRE4m3XZAySwhVWt-qXnCUX8Y4sxkl_AbvhU0Jd7nZKV9uT-TejNwblAOB8T2EesD7ijsrRoOKyeuzGrungkYUFbyHLqPFBeblZHz9GZHcmvrQu_zSq3raD8luuWs0hiwZlbJpex57EoTuMXOZwIeFn_S2HGWsl1LDDpx9lUJWIECiA4bs1eupHtzVxIhiKBLSPWIEwgwhAeDjMmw18J473-Ym55GQvxikQoZrrMs0AnhQ2cXOChAQhqGneua7EqabJ9CYpSvcnNc78twXdCp3S64t7V6cSkHFJQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">10.) What is their life dream?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>To free the slaves and live under the sun and stars.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fN5DW2SSLg8sh5zAQgK-I_qbDPmoHVHFiE5DdDlzvpsWuV7SU2pCv7VL-4oZW__50hWmBxpz8-1wiuMrj1D1ZTYHjA0XNDhHqwG11Y7U2-vV-Taw8S5OIU4su64lGnlJUTmZStwY49I0VtbNn_dA154Xg8EzE3Awhz3LA4DeyMpz9JyYuQ8lnc0oSCc9IBRbow-7v4dAO9IVpjYqLPSTAaPOMqMOujtYe6qYlWO0eyOJbz0PtcM_lmkZRNfV4L-5_KSKz0YZtweXcIGUMrE6qAoTLS36BvwRfH2AAe43lhuaiRfRDJ48QiYH4Eyg8vu6vlV4h5-jzB2Sc3hKdqwFIVtizYHp5OiH5ZoUbNBsa8brxxg_nZOBfd_PxHgLNwp0ByEQ3kbSOr_4Oz0tEqnmk1qNusA1UFcXrgAoz07j_ECpt5TJFt7WUYKL0nWR_mflzUspyV0bec-xYjMQEYxlLSine98NhVyDOEpzTk2mqzGyLh896F3Z5WNj_ohipTfOE1UH-vLd66V8KgyqwRRYQMwFMN7VcFIciz9h6TVYuKKlrpqt7j6RPbmb2637VcxND6BjYBX4lZs-9V7SSyTX0ny_6hqJScUYulYTfvqvRNSsBv6JE2-9dRIvhWhdqcVST24rC46Oi_C5aZ71u8nGdv9AqnzHXi7rcJs3fLb7xqMgPp8GXQbrTPMqEYzgSdmj0jxLfDASzfgKi9a_Jw=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>And that’s my boy! It was <em>so</em> nice to revisit him!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Yes, he is a tragic soft boy. And yes, I’m totally a terrible author to him. Also I know these answers were short and vague, but it was haaard keeping spoilers to a minimum with him. So you’ll all just have to be in the dark about his backstory and such. *smile, smile*</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0K5yZDeGeQq1P_KyqR5TqgrxDyogvYujECxEjjuJCzAChQbqQbCYvhSCSbu2JaCnD6Y4a3x4VbgXQKFGo2D-0bisLX2SGsEk6bW9B_MXX1jcq-Z9y2CT9_273WMJ7n1OuHtmA0XGWiijB30KZiAIwBrlUrNQ3LT80s8q6-HsTL2uwAthXIRFsv8903zLIWYnfmrWYONbmq1tVBR8owDD2ycAiIJjv4QMxAxWRFX4TEZaUJI5B9p8qbLvI3D4A5e4e96xMVqR2aSV3ahwWuZsIytV2oZjVNFDNzyunaIq-AQZG9m_brxynSIr405uZWUUx29_d3UyhPWmiJ5FkCy_1FT2xqU-FeJtwzB5JrQiagDhFt8fFI43Io7La0H6lEhKwJqpSHo9_zbt2c5zwMiVdRqYpaWF7lq32KpeGDxDhFBZ0tVtcCV9436PA4VQs0XR7NRs5UxG9AcSRxcf4WcObfEflFR2Kh9P9p1Rh72B5QDcn_hIB6ebitgW0uNAHrMwo_0tplFDUmnrx9ukdl8vYEl6Zy8LC8xvh6Gu04S8VipyXNIZCJLcogT4AsxQvuA2rNfGqWESFlJAbl0c3fBq9iVanIRR21NDQo6a91l-pbVZS0AWlyPSenqftH8Is5xw3OhveuuZDE1TLrXu7WetR2KgSVF2dtqulK3May3zjFf5SBlnVyuMGBPOBd-3MdPj6IIRh8-YkEUFTIh_Lw=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="5">What do you think of Syram? Does he deserve a nicer author? <font size="3">(Answer: Yes.)</font> Have you joined in this edition of <em>Language of Worlds? </em>You can snag the questions and linkup </font><a href="http://livkfisher.blogspot.com/2019/01/the-language-of-worlds-linkup-new-years.html" target="_blank"><font size="5">HERE</font></a><font size="5">! I think it runs ‘til the end of February!</font></font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com34tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-4663836537097305732019-01-28T10:10:00.000-06:002019-01-28T10:40:32.578-06:00{Book Review} Five Poisoned Apples<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/635LFEX757wADH_MwuN9fgQ1LNE8LLJdNOLVUQJvnRVercKfRVdJtqlEDBRW8VPn_YKVAcoUfb6_fN4kRUBRQwnhmoDG3TL1Y2GLOILoi_g1qUzSlntj55yf9nVrunQQNW7OSKtww0G9usjx2tMLUoycYS2jalQUNhKXvD7jcOr7RqbEn7g_BeI_eFwM11lMYGgHFyrU1RSFPpIMJh5Nn2EKesu7VnFUx23ja7V8o_v62Z8ytEfzM9YCtIjqmh6vkNzBpn8YouxKg2BIwbbQoDlv963B8p3-x0iv0VYdAxaFNnWDJvvVS24k6wxHGb1DHVrf09mcCSmIosbuWnypgZwDA3otHN1uFakgjbUGxPwGzpQrnGEYQZCHz9nj8EB5sYiNd_2VWmVIpsoDtSxLGSPUJyzLsaORl8f2nJy6yn0pPXNsneK0nVnILxjjLlSb58PxIioq1tIGIZFzXQgTeJKr_FyV4nDt1Y-fFAswl0c8L_aXRJv--T8OhaiKknIoQeD5-5CPwN90JDgEjU1UfYdrLz1p6qWamsch2Zu7_JBQZEA8ZT5pTmUUFMZ00sA7alOjuaSOJiCMsrWReNhtra95wulh_wLEPzT20SHTT_97uWFCNpuX5YoecubKObMtSWCGgaxjq89AemUwQb0EhmkRpOi_tlhrQwES9rKrlpBsxh2xbnQ2ovQzyYoUqVoZcZHh65ySY9ihbUk-eQ=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6ZP1WhTlDr-jMLXYFoPPvyCkHVK84emF5ELvk0mxbp9Cq4u4G6oBchJaauQe2v595mhZbD6cL4Etts_zmTners4Aie4mfYZt-sC9upwUbsun41NUAOzASsu30CoH8SMw9TndiJWgbnqhoLantedvm_39NMlnt5CjKYIKHuwa6DjM7UekNOeHQ8UZwCaf5vJTcf0w6s8FlHFK_38cMPaUbpGKescmlTojfamZMBEF0DDpTwqGrcBTJ_wtOtwtc8bV4ctsTAn2POANHwU-0vkHuRUGWiKhEe9DECMSq8f8M7pP45Zrypstao2z7xoY8s7PCbhxlKtl63W_uiM91Ef-iYFmh3dnI3USfOjcNV-ctq7-C4tpiEYWeOVbkZiJCZzlX9t_SiZHctImzRYNJYk53H7efa_kWVUfLg1gDAY7fqr4d1GcgGW1aT0okDZKmeNWhS9U8pdJw8YPbOVdlkhrcGR3Z1Xnp54WAjVPrsma0kVaCe50xY14HtFvvDCS8jwClXNvd_e2OKAl1fF8BmQgVrudv6JSsvYH9euFQTDkhbWv6NrPIi0anTTweaulX00fmztYe917WkIvqJHMQP2Cv2td74_-ocQI9qHsJXN2OxQsUHo3gM-jazegdiOi9Rh2T-JJ52vxCH1kWC3cGoCh0m46kXGTz1dVv5Xui8P42mYBdNXzYDDCSfHdaZBQc4bkzu15vivE4whWzqPEmA=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: left; margin: 27px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EOldIhemxwj4ttEq7Iz5sNcOAVKKdmxQbFdHslMeihHlbKb55kSU5yQBbYDPAmqN-zo5c8pVuoRtwoCKy2Ee5NwB3I7sC-IL_rxThKYQSTAOoql3Xtf8OyQhELVjhp084LcOGLVrlkR9o1E8MCwLdmS1TSAh6-ebpdFcp9PrzHy6ihreaEynyVtAPVcvc-DTauTMmtxGLEhB_6jw0fpjH813ezeb8M9Ihijg6cmnLds31XYT4xGyp9VxBlj3gtUTwRuUVbMggsRGflSW1J3nalyZI5k3rFIn-EcsbzX_objFM9EyYzST6UhyMN-Ts9qJ36tUM77pHYHpB2SW3DXQbSxECMScJX-V__I5UOXF15zafB21ULtbImD2EhTdT3YsKIX_ELq3kVg_AgmheAoFYlfXjD-vIFLmwHdAvZ0btajnYLKmGKQ1RcqVsYULye9ZpQ_f8_SrrnYX0myvA625DEkwdUbDcbK5xWBXitSngOKXU4xL2NG87QW8DqrT8W4-FoRkCLnCV7upebOB3-C49xOrEuIYCQdYQqcFvWvkxDSca6fO4fS36Sw609hL9n_0CgdmVVJpmp8MG6KdW-X2MmKw3V5QhEdNzW20To1zSxIxI3oD1H-IU4HiozsZS8CpH7S5WAeXG2uPEwKSyayXhcekq65NvxTzs0qT9ttPHv7MnYiTWc8nedlaOq6DNIlhj4R0j8MA08jGq5-tQ=w310-h475-no" width="295" align="left" height="447"><strong>A TALE SO DARK AND LOVELY</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><em><b>Falling Snow: </b>The strange dark circus is the only life she’s ever known—but is Snow a performer or a prisoner?<br><b>Raven’s Heir:</b> Taking her in could risk the lives of his rebel band—but how can Damien leave the young woman at the huntsman’s mercy?<br><b>The Fairest One: </b>Her people look for the prophesied Fairest One—but can Livna find courage to step out of the shadows and save her nation?<br><b>Red as Blood:</b> He’s been hired to assassinate the princess, no questions asked—but how can Zaig take the life of one so young, so innocent?<br><b>Snowbird and the Red Slippers:</b> She longs to be worthy of the scholarship that changed her life—but can Jeong Hayan survive the bitter rivalry of a prestigious New York dance school?</em></p>
<p align="justify"><em>Experience the haunting beauty of Snow White in five thrilling retellings.</em></p>
<p align="center"><br><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1942379226/ref=x_gr_w_glide_ku_bb?ie=UTF8&tag=x_gr_w_glide_ku_bb-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1942379226&SubscriptionId=1MGPYB6YW3HWK55XCGG2" target="_blank"><font size="6">AMAZON</font></a><font size="6"> | </font><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42965308-five-poisoned-apples" target="_blank"><font size="6">GOODREADS</font></a><font size="6"> | </font><a href="http://www.rooglewoodpress.com/" target="_blank"><font size="6">PUBLISHER'S WEBSITE</font></a></p>
<p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6ZP1WhTlDr-jMLXYFoPPvyCkHVK84emF5ELvk0mxbp9Cq4u4G6oBchJaauQe2v595mhZbD6cL4Etts_zmTners4Aie4mfYZt-sC9upwUbsun41NUAOzASsu30CoH8SMw9TndiJWgbnqhoLantedvm_39NMlnt5CjKYIKHuwa6DjM7UekNOeHQ8UZwCaf5vJTcf0w6s8FlHFK_38cMPaUbpGKescmlTojfamZMBEF0DDpTwqGrcBTJ_wtOtwtc8bV4ctsTAn2POANHwU-0vkHuRUGWiKhEe9DECMSq8f8M7pP45Zrypstao2z7xoY8s7PCbhxlKtl63W_uiM91Ef-iYFmh3dnI3USfOjcNV-ctq7-C4tpiEYWeOVbkZiJCZzlX9t_SiZHctImzRYNJYk53H7efa_kWVUfLg1gDAY7fqr4d1GcgGW1aT0okDZKmeNWhS9U8pdJw8YPbOVdlkhrcGR3Z1Xnp54WAjVPrsma0kVaCe50xY14HtFvvDCS8jwClXNvd_e2OKAl1fF8BmQgVrudv6JSsvYH9euFQTDkhbWv6NrPIi0anTTweaulX00fmztYe917WkIvqJHMQP2Cv2td74_-ocQI9qHsJXN2OxQsUHo3gM-jazegdiOi9Rh2T-JJ52vxCH1kWC3cGoCh0m46kXGTz1dVv5Xui8P42mYBdNXzYDDCSfHdaZBQc4bkzu15vivE4whWzqPEmA=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>HERE IT IS. AT LAST. The fourth and final fairytale collection from Rooglewood Press! And what a collection to end with!</strong></font> I’ve been waiting foreverrr for this one, and it is finally here and is gorgeous and I’ve read it and loved it and YES. I simply adore these anthologies and am so sad they’re over, but AWK. They’re just so beautiful.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5">My reviews for previous collections:</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2015/08/five-glass-slippers-book-review.html" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CqTs-zv0RL8dOzztte-hlEoDYekc7T7DZ5QHVZnclAVSTs6TkvwtSoauJ9a4U2u2y9tvBBbchviFQnvgMeufOKi8N9Q1Ao4wjrWo9g5REzRAes5A84B_udoumkLSRt4klMe80-3eRMhNRb-4JMWhKZGhNhNLT7RAeLiBPtjxkbgvIZbi4cAvbhJcBc82hPQqNc6cayVUBaZDgGkkC59No3M8OBY9Vw5EQgnWtLvDHYqdjnTY-EtJ4uE6707lZfVsyInNH3kTl0OMacNQDRXICYzA6was9NaLDAZ-Hi6Ipr6O6Y6QdYmECvGT3Jbt262Ge28yrs2b_6Y5jNyGSaS0DWvmIDADWgoKY9b3qYUcwNwN9-wAsaYV2_QvXxcY9BOz5Adb_09dh2Vp5kFhgJZ99xNqlWYTnGxxqSUUKfI50m9JN5a1C7DVsO9SQffDiiGuxFrdBsR2fq5XLqIygWbQ-5X__lnMd8zH1QXWvJ5VWNwZsWkdQSQeliIhMS-3o7l0nG3WaQTk9MGE2iiO5nEfN8rM5zw3xTBKxlZOpRBeawLIhuQTbFeB2LOz0tMviA4mhzJCi8mFNKksO2P2IsPfpROetzu9Qtac2nfILZtxBzyn3QxOy_JK-inB9sOcf6-cLpBCvmQHShKJBe6MQrJWmBqKdJMAt8kyWarbVsB2yJJ0UYkyylbGMAJJL8RsvhKJ3OKV2749_ru3V1a60A=w309-h475-no" width="200" height="304"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2015/09/five-enchanted-roses-book-review.html" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/uxNhaDW-8TTCwflIcepYFwcmDPynEeNZlz0rHQbDq5fc0UWr1CR3feh-6hvLBFIzZ7kEagZCVYqlIyP3z_gtXI4F6-GLHKe05UBia6clnfIo2vAmwG_3D2w7E2a-KBBzE12YuG8YHXhm6yWOFtQMNz2CTw55jKYlecnjqUkUvBziALLZu4_jH3HsmdWtLFYJMmZSb0ZiA5dUbqwOnx7QQLGh9VZUX2yhnIVracRcc3kTPfUaVuky4KS3C5wqqNELCh3dW5RqzxSYx43xAIbuuwU-VOoMI671W9e06XVL8f1BbCsyhZOsrM15DICvOi-b6Aw9Gtm9agWaVUDeo3_WccIrPlFAMAhZobDq_wWrQkpw8XYYc-hJnyVsPPmMw1iVXILKEwgf96IPEjoYH2pGpa14F3U6FjyRmmdPGbrX9loGHydqF3C089CJGNUinpvxT36BAXEYJTtkpbBYY1uhSpK50pCYdoVhqhezzItWy_45rMKqgPjrt33dfYqK_eUhdckRRxbxwqGI0lYkwsI267t16myITRiav_w_XDTJht5b-BX-zCleXWEkH122WFg6caliU5MZhRRF4oRCHdCN_6DpToV-K7gROEJCRTb7m9dB6DDc4mtj0OyjamhAVPpw95LQJLOCy4sp1lq6aQ8dYX7CktvxbwtYvRm8-781Wpd6nDcppWIO37t-nULE1jIkyBA7fIrbAQLYXx3Urg=w306-h475-no" width="200" height="307"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><br>(Except I still haven’t read <em>Five Magic Spindles </em>yet. Ooops!)</p>
<p align="justify"><br>This collection really has something for everyone. Snow White has never really been one of my favorite fairytales, but these authors made me love it as they took the beautifully dark tale and reimagined it in such unique, beautiful ways.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rBx9YhO7y7dy8dUKB9CEi7LqYd5tz885kb6yeRaLQ1M74lhX9od1DF8mEEoIl-Jqz6lFbhNvPAo2sf-oKhyI4BfSPR7C70ubvQj3hGLwM82IS4k7xe1Y3zQlnLs6ifMTeVf_SVu9LqoUZ5r0mXYhdtbVN-0dcpWarO-DZjoFDKhyVYK9doVPf3bbW8AgJ8uzsyrKRlYllMBlS_A3xkdG8tiS92yaPELaRGcP2EAZATy0dY9j6mNaBIsA59KxNzsljncwvtOUX0JjI-vRhoaa-tgf8SWC-TtYnzupQRYVSTC--_XHqc9KTAPyjmIG3mRHD_eH9uWpTRz8LLTuTWhh4dglsXzdz3I64qxcqRAq-R_JzMloah0tIu__QwIc9LJv-WUnKcmPmujVV3H_FY0e5VgfLv4TmBp7xuIBUfH2BFLh9ywhi7xJBSHB0HMVDniv4xgNWfSYzdgksbWksd3E7rbPomTcBp8kfEXCErdlyM3tZC2yZ86Er0vPjENJq-ygdDSHz-_oJSMuTsfwUnVq1tTwJe4Ho_dVRa9YuFB8EDMf4oNhbxXXduTdEMd7xi8rDUYeM4oa6jhagtk381EuHNpbFKM69sBgzmvVrbQRLV8intjA5aoh4wtFPJ7eNmyKRxSiqtWv13WuBLe-LM5y8pMUUAl_ToNkL9k-C7QpQUl_acyZWqekpq3NKDKBrfkZPaXxOaLLskK7QWplaw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VyJpHhUngB-Nuirw4hyH5TbofJF8PQBSOAQbbKsWA7AGklQAO2-B1y5JpaoNfX3_Gv8kYPrMRhZ_YhyUX1wGfSKloNBtrf48lRqojs20_mHBNlJWEasi6XwX6rv5MHhivDEqqroOcbsqFuh2czztuHSB4nebs5Bfi5cuw88gscZOJHNWTW9y3B7XkldcvevoUKlEzmIV_WwkwymmBY-xRmuR9YZrF4v2S_bNqwIUKhLWG560Kz7g6cX95Af9YP92Yr0i_5YuEXs1bCFE0c8B2PLtFYIQSNL3JeI0RBcYgj-G2Jc7sbyElINHb7SDW7DORHj8R4NtbWobDvltCVt9hsCNdzrunHcMiMz46x_S1vfxzkTCqTqnkrMcJkSYlqi6enGIH1Tvfy4chvL7AIrLWdOzmW8_4eygj2xTNm2eYD7SUMzGVp6WSW-lGkWzs9Wz7R3zRaDayomVhofoJ10fdlYZe46pta3YYMDPPcwNvO633tlpKlDDB_p50_fi8IxfFDTSIbqxUHCMdJCamBQRKTf0Oh2amVlhRXYt371_qjM_4bPXVCkLdpanSNjfLaBg_0CJIt8lA0O6dshcuROQxppj2kMeT0-xEifD72lAi2lj77c5H1fa2_eS_svqTIQO4Rmcae-xt12H5jkV1knSFfuCYnAlkQDR3KwbCaNn0AsuIpN-UD7udZM7c0ipsY4xJZTi8n4bfsKXSc3BVg=w180-h279-no" width="200" height="304"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6">FALLING SNOW<br></font><font size="5">by Skye Hoffert</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>When I got word that this was one of the stories chosen for the collection, saying I was excited is an understatement. I was SCREAMING. I’m still screaming!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Skye is not only one of the most precious people on this earth, she’s also a dear internet friend of mine. I got to beta-read this story in its early days and fell. in. love. I was not surprised a bit it got chosen. IT IS BRILLIANCE. And it’s surreal having my Skye <em>published.</em> SO PROUD.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p></font>
<p align="justify"><font size="4">AND THIS STORY, GUYS.</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><strong>If you're looking for a gritty circus setting, snappy writing, electric characters, a plot that keeps your adrenaline rushing as fast as Snow's on the tightrope, and a brilliantly unique take on Snow White, this is it!</strong> I could seriously fangirl about this novella for days.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>This story involves a creepy circus run by magical fae and just YES PLEASE.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I honest to goodness adored every single aspect of this story. The writing is quick and snappy and transports you so perfectly into the tale, you forget you're even reading. Not once did I have to pause to try to imagine the setting, but there were no over-the-top descriptions to be found.<strong> In a mere sentence or even a single word, this author managed to paint a perfect picture of the surroundings, the actions of the characters, even the tone, and tug at your heartstrings or quicken your heartbeat while she was at it. </strong>Then there was the fascinating plot that took the elements of the original Snow White story and flipped them on their head in such an original way. And the pacing was perfection.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But the true gold of this story is the CHARACTERS.</strong> Snow is broken and soft, yet absolutely feisty when she needed to be. This girl made my heart swell. I just wanted to hug her okay? Then there's Chayse, our male lead, who made my heart ache over all the burdens he bore and decisions he had to make. I don't want to say too much about him and spoil things but, trust me, you're going to fall in love. And last but deeefinitely not least is Cynfael. Ah, Cyn. Our charming scoundrel who keeps you on your toes from the moment he enters the pages. If for no other reason, read this story for Cynfael. You'll thank me later. Oh, and we can't forget the villain, the evil queen herself, who made my skin crawl. Just what you want in a fairytale!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Skye Hoffert is a word genius and captured me from page one with this brilliant tale.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I'd honestly purchase this anthology for this story alone. It was, without a doubt, my favorite of the collection.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><u>Content Cautions</u></font><br>There was <em>quite</em> a lot of drinking and smoking, and it seems like some of the characters use a bit of crude language. It really fit the gritty setting and brought it to life, so I didn’t mind. But do be warned if that’s not your thing.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ciRUkXMMoFZNo766V43DJBl_j0MZ11CCHK79b3gZ32A9XAtAroF-iBiEMAsb7HElq9myxQ4oMSOoQ0KtWpSL3XDn8NMIrGjmI1U458gKT4v8mR5mNTpQ1wP93nrrsljCY6iOaB2CmtE9Z9NSneVPPhe49AuxQcBThbYOo3hkK5xhVoIy-xtAooFeiwzLyTjZTFjdzEUsflTTsaOu6SrrS3M5jF7fps2WkbqV6hdsmLys2TnIttkzkPiYroYrUKiYzrhncXUxOvWUcQRpGwc1sfXyIGkQcePpNj1e-Qkv_pVYfXfLL6ISEUztvIUijoDdSzoySd8TLc4uf7hTzlNgxz9le2pzfSEI3Vri4vAT7GC-zDzn5sJ7uDY6st1clTjlvBXgaJAaqxAxqWga9717dUmhteT30ZoQeL9EQALKRWAWRWH631cNYzzzXXol8kvjWneRzLoOhiF2ZJSUp47krcCnIHFJJXoShmDBR3SB3XjZfB6HKJ8uO8e2TZklkEJhFAXc0sB_RrEP6e6KlxDRKN5rMfNXt66oj3VAsMORvYhV4YNHgTEWAWaMb_L5oqZ738ewO5ssKmOhfAnUVZ2yfvs1QHB9Xgzgl2PBZT2DhGLW6ttUpC5AGihQGaAALBBPxp6TMfc21BZP9XuAxRCz_21SiCS8kjY89EuvEzyyHakoBVIGSRtaDCDDKsEsbzQeeLEaNlZcAN_0yqY6Lw=w308-h102-no" width="250" height="88"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rBx9YhO7y7dy8dUKB9CEi7LqYd5tz885kb6yeRaLQ1M74lhX9od1DF8mEEoIl-Jqz6lFbhNvPAo2sf-oKhyI4BfSPR7C70ubvQj3hGLwM82IS4k7xe1Y3zQlnLs6ifMTeVf_SVu9LqoUZ5r0mXYhdtbVN-0dcpWarO-DZjoFDKhyVYK9doVPf3bbW8AgJ8uzsyrKRlYllMBlS_A3xkdG8tiS92yaPELaRGcP2EAZATy0dY9j6mNaBIsA59KxNzsljncwvtOUX0JjI-vRhoaa-tgf8SWC-TtYnzupQRYVSTC--_XHqc9KTAPyjmIG3mRHD_eH9uWpTRz8LLTuTWhh4dglsXzdz3I64qxcqRAq-R_JzMloah0tIu__QwIc9LJv-WUnKcmPmujVV3H_FY0e5VgfLv4TmBp7xuIBUfH2BFLh9ywhi7xJBSHB0HMVDniv4xgNWfSYzdgksbWksd3E7rbPomTcBp8kfEXCErdlyM3tZC2yZ86Er0vPjENJq-ygdDSHz-_oJSMuTsfwUnVq1tTwJe4Ho_dVRa9YuFB8EDMf4oNhbxXXduTdEMd7xi8rDUYeM4oa6jhagtk381EuHNpbFKM69sBgzmvVrbQRLV8intjA5aoh4wtFPJ7eNmyKRxSiqtWv13WuBLe-LM5y8pMUUAl_ToNkL9k-C7QpQUl_acyZWqekpq3NKDKBrfkZPaXxOaLLskK7QWplaw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/WI9WvoOylsKNmVQW2-zE9pJred8kQm2CXPSRrSWzeonmDReHLujk0skKXpPUP6VBPqz8zRWd7dq8osqAETtjlqLCLZ1wAIM85cKKuafLw2f8I2rBzqksNDEOqF7qVSyKrR5Rb2Ax__f-3CD310x1R6J5VeFg6FwoK8jHeawqa6a7K3vU9nZvIPwqYxzabvdJ4aNtgW9qtT8XA-GXE9TWbP4yb8i-Z9x4YtUb_lx-bv7kGLb8rsXoUCVEHM3PRcUBnlqNdb9KRF4MbDij1vNvWTI6-3g807grqCfls6u23gzlsql8tW4mvBH5HLuBVQYzJ2D2hBn5QNvCIwOaE5vCCeicBleoyqVrzZ777ZbHIqdRp9fEGKTBhbQD9AMMEsM-6ZRhzfuZeHwrwM6dImjyzs4rgZEvdYmJtFxtvUX0pTMnep19r796ug41TV0YItkT_6FqwH9Jqtxa98kPPkJSqSZ25vDE2ar9INQCZwZzzURl1TS7ZHmM-KNgfcbtoMGlI7TuBnMQS1Fmc9PoCowJV1WxOBApRghUPulw77KYCBz7-McDv0y9Fs4adKQ5YrOM-Dr2aw8bUuLDetxIFtgKqO7R0bGT1dnfmOipFXa_1xk5cvr9rlbTTPZ0Ny0qYBCUTpQCTxK849dqSufu1itN-jN-RpjhMUkwSy9VaiwXs8FAQ4EuZ7frtIEEjOu5AQQaVPgJXkcqUDFYkJVaBw=w424-h653-no" width="200" height="305"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6">RAVEN’S HEIR<br></font><font size="5">by Jenelle Hovde</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This one had such a beautiful writing style. It felt both historical and fairytale-like, at the same time, which was lovely.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>There’s always one story in these collections that follows the closest to the original fairytale, and <em>Raven’s Heir</em> was that one for this anthology. But it took the events of the Snow White story and placed them in a rich, historical setting.</strong> Technically, it’s in a fantasy world, but you could tell this author knows her history, and it came out beautifully in the story.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>The plot didn’t enrapture me quite as much with this one, as most of it was about the characters traveling, and then the ending was a little rushed.</strong> BUT our villain with her use of magic gave me chills <font size="3">(always the goal with a villain, especially when she’s the evil queen!)</font> and Damien and Kara, our hero and heroine, were so kind and selfless, and their romance was one of the sweetest I’ve ever read. They were PRECIOUS! Also, the “dwarves” as a band of outlaws was clever, and had a very Robin Hoodish vibe which is ALWAYS a plus in my book.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Though a bit slow, the intriguing villain, sweet characters, and rich setting definitely made this a worthwhile read!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><u>Content Cautions</u></font><br>The villainess in this one uses some pretty dark magic, that involves chilling spirits. But the magic is definitely shown in a bad light.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-buQCzqDuFg_20Lev3QA3BuYRFk48cvmTm3RNLOBIzJaptX_vU1clDyLpGqtrgcimvM90X09pghcB5Wa26762UkqcBk6pboiSlTv2i6HERBH-HEapKGS3kOPJZUSZ-7G24P0eqE3UoHgoO8KeJHs1o27wOBfuIlq4q3i1SovkSpQXAFm5znoKxNnlKV9-QbEPdEM1Fc79zBxO99WqkI83cg5UURiDkdUP9iNzgjdnSvhGNoYwv-LFd7G5xg-5E0cESRuh1xOzBOzFWWaX-0RJmkhNvdX8DQjV58a3GOyc1UsDLF8fUaFuISDE-mAmMQp3KgbSvsb0PS2fuT7gunpZrehocffk7luWfvBDwMMA2fJ6WythOCZ7tAg9nKeZgaF9wPNBPZanB3Yf7K4bDXh4J8upROzC2GoStSUprGZt8KkTAqShONr2Xjj7hpY9daZ5484ChtEya0vwVvjYJwDchdpAZ7AY7TiXbwYGB9L3h5V4OksM9W-dpYdL-8BcY2Voq_F3xk5lhLzXs6wGlA6stYwTzGeiQlYAwgfio_qlzafTWYH4QThwbF94FqOAs9NsfZ9rvIiNmRR-tWK-MqKG1ruFMPbZwC46cfXQr3efkf8YL1CKstwoLjrF3XFSh0E1OYdDmE8USjpdbJFr73pLJXEqNc-TOzxhqR4YltDfQ5lH4n9-EoPOXhKePMT42MM9pwAkys4Zc5-lWK4BA=w308-h102-no" width="250" height="88"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rBx9YhO7y7dy8dUKB9CEi7LqYd5tz885kb6yeRaLQ1M74lhX9od1DF8mEEoIl-Jqz6lFbhNvPAo2sf-oKhyI4BfSPR7C70ubvQj3hGLwM82IS4k7xe1Y3zQlnLs6ifMTeVf_SVu9LqoUZ5r0mXYhdtbVN-0dcpWarO-DZjoFDKhyVYK9doVPf3bbW8AgJ8uzsyrKRlYllMBlS_A3xkdG8tiS92yaPELaRGcP2EAZATy0dY9j6mNaBIsA59KxNzsljncwvtOUX0JjI-vRhoaa-tgf8SWC-TtYnzupQRYVSTC--_XHqc9KTAPyjmIG3mRHD_eH9uWpTRz8LLTuTWhh4dglsXzdz3I64qxcqRAq-R_JzMloah0tIu__QwIc9LJv-WUnKcmPmujVV3H_FY0e5VgfLv4TmBp7xuIBUfH2BFLh9ywhi7xJBSHB0HMVDniv4xgNWfSYzdgksbWksd3E7rbPomTcBp8kfEXCErdlyM3tZC2yZ86Er0vPjENJq-ygdDSHz-_oJSMuTsfwUnVq1tTwJe4Ho_dVRa9YuFB8EDMf4oNhbxXXduTdEMd7xi8rDUYeM4oa6jhagtk381EuHNpbFKM69sBgzmvVrbQRLV8intjA5aoh4wtFPJ7eNmyKRxSiqtWv13WuBLe-LM5y8pMUUAl_ToNkL9k-C7QpQUl_acyZWqekpq3NKDKBrfkZPaXxOaLLskK7QWplaw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/DMTEAiFCFCUVR629Fd_R9vQXJYBAo7EPJyM81i78Q3k6Xuv-6GarAOvFiK2XjzoeuySfWdVo1TyjaxJZLoBB4xSV7TB1OV1gbA-d-prTFg500nZnEOF8vyzS3ZePrl4XqQlP_r3fN2k1pgzjYLyMyXV5ZFU27QJQztAcMSdwB6vnGpP4QdNQjaMuypWqFyTOq2e4UefGdteW7SlSVAeMw-2Qt_Ebf1zRSN_KUbmyBe0-Zum1AEBO00y2T8t_gS0tOEjJ_MlFZvi1NEq_BMCOl5bJVqaMV1RwsoC4QaV8bGltdjZVR7rStqCj0suSX2VCs5hDkeJ8ug6_yC6W2Va0Ptu4Fymk9MYORhVSAFt5t0XFgaKggyW5htMUBDQqqgZ6FXVJvSdmgCBRlr0AL4Wm2neLDBpL74uEVNpX45_7aN42EYjqEbaB_MmehYhVatMfn3GRULmSxhp5wx46NASyx6DwfeCyNH3xxGo6YRLtje_KrcYgPoTEPAwVVzBkm7JVRL0e1xuSukwpWqLhewuHNuyFX1i0Q4xgZqTByaXnF2fOnChTr2ECVbPn37WemeKEEg0dmQ3h19vaRaPVheZb8SGrOFLCCYm274LYgrnTUX6_-z4j8y5vL5spVQo4uSyNADnGp-syT4Ent-zNCCZ4p9q5FG24u0Int3xltYQw_wNz-EmnQszW3qFPHbGq8C1MKSeV8R-GDueKXtRO6w=w180-h279-no" width="200" height="304"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6">THE FAIREST ONE<br></font><font size="5">by Cortney Manning</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>*clutches heart* What an epic, sweeping tale! I’m not always the biggest fan of novellas because I never feel like there’s enough time to truly get to know the characters. Or the story is just too simple and straight forward. Well Cortney Manning threw that belief out the window.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><em>The Fairest One</em> feels like a great epic, in the span of just a few chapters.</strong> I don’t know how she did it but wow! The rich Middle/Near Eastern-type world comes alive in this one. Seriously, I just wanted to crawl into the storyworld <font size="3">(and I loved how it wasn’t your average medieval European setting too!)</font>. <strong>Livna, our heroine, was a sweet cinnamon roll who just wanted her father’s love and attention and to see her land safe. It was a delight seeing her grow and find her courage to stand up for her people.</strong> I felt for her SO MUCH, and was sad when the story was over, because I already miss her.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>And the way the dwarves were portrayed. YES. Magical beings, and slaves to the “evil queen” character. So much originality there! <strong>One of the main characters, Oren, is a dwarf himself, and grumpy and sarcastic and totally great. All the characters really popped off the pages.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I loved how unique this one was, while also, somehow, staying so true to the original Snow White story. The twists this author put on Snow White were pure genius, and there was even a hint of Cinderella vibes going on which I loved. <strong>The stakes were HIGH in this one, and then the PLOT TWIST. Whoa. I was not expecting it.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Everything about this story was beautiful and brilliant and I loved every single word.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><u>Content Cautions</u></font><br>Other than some heart-pounding high-stakes, I don’t recall there being anything to worry about with this one? Lots of magic, but that’s to be expected with a Snow White collection.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ciRUkXMMoFZNo766V43DJBl_j0MZ11CCHK79b3gZ32A9XAtAroF-iBiEMAsb7HElq9myxQ4oMSOoQ0KtWpSL3XDn8NMIrGjmI1U458gKT4v8mR5mNTpQ1wP93nrrsljCY6iOaB2CmtE9Z9NSneVPPhe49AuxQcBThbYOo3hkK5xhVoIy-xtAooFeiwzLyTjZTFjdzEUsflTTsaOu6SrrS3M5jF7fps2WkbqV6hdsmLys2TnIttkzkPiYroYrUKiYzrhncXUxOvWUcQRpGwc1sfXyIGkQcePpNj1e-Qkv_pVYfXfLL6ISEUztvIUijoDdSzoySd8TLc4uf7hTzlNgxz9le2pzfSEI3Vri4vAT7GC-zDzn5sJ7uDY6st1clTjlvBXgaJAaqxAxqWga9717dUmhteT30ZoQeL9EQALKRWAWRWH631cNYzzzXXol8kvjWneRzLoOhiF2ZJSUp47krcCnIHFJJXoShmDBR3SB3XjZfB6HKJ8uO8e2TZklkEJhFAXc0sB_RrEP6e6KlxDRKN5rMfNXt66oj3VAsMORvYhV4YNHgTEWAWaMb_L5oqZ738ewO5ssKmOhfAnUVZ2yfvs1QHB9Xgzgl2PBZT2DhGLW6ttUpC5AGihQGaAALBBPxp6TMfc21BZP9XuAxRCz_21SiCS8kjY89EuvEzyyHakoBVIGSRtaDCDDKsEsbzQeeLEaNlZcAN_0yqY6Lw=w308-h102-no" width="250" height="88"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rBx9YhO7y7dy8dUKB9CEi7LqYd5tz885kb6yeRaLQ1M74lhX9od1DF8mEEoIl-Jqz6lFbhNvPAo2sf-oKhyI4BfSPR7C70ubvQj3hGLwM82IS4k7xe1Y3zQlnLs6ifMTeVf_SVu9LqoUZ5r0mXYhdtbVN-0dcpWarO-DZjoFDKhyVYK9doVPf3bbW8AgJ8uzsyrKRlYllMBlS_A3xkdG8tiS92yaPELaRGcP2EAZATy0dY9j6mNaBIsA59KxNzsljncwvtOUX0JjI-vRhoaa-tgf8SWC-TtYnzupQRYVSTC--_XHqc9KTAPyjmIG3mRHD_eH9uWpTRz8LLTuTWhh4dglsXzdz3I64qxcqRAq-R_JzMloah0tIu__QwIc9LJv-WUnKcmPmujVV3H_FY0e5VgfLv4TmBp7xuIBUfH2BFLh9ywhi7xJBSHB0HMVDniv4xgNWfSYzdgksbWksd3E7rbPomTcBp8kfEXCErdlyM3tZC2yZ86Er0vPjENJq-ygdDSHz-_oJSMuTsfwUnVq1tTwJe4Ho_dVRa9YuFB8EDMf4oNhbxXXduTdEMd7xi8rDUYeM4oa6jhagtk381EuHNpbFKM69sBgzmvVrbQRLV8intjA5aoh4wtFPJ7eNmyKRxSiqtWv13WuBLe-LM5y8pMUUAl_ToNkL9k-C7QpQUl_acyZWqekpq3NKDKBrfkZPaXxOaLLskK7QWplaw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/580Z0sb4peIEuUotPthRls3g1MPUOw9nb38g1fczOmyhibtFs47oL2tPJ3MIB6KOmFB8mNKvL09YFs4GG8nix0D2T8VBKYsMaG0SrI0ttSX3x_alHPW1XjQJr5S3siFxUUoZwYgBFijTf1xh_NAQWerrxkmQ7i3IrmrluHonD2QoBJis191GIgx7jGmpLjL5PfyziCSorvP5_YulPcYzNi3aF_CW2a7l9Qp05T8TIKnwNw8JkAM3YTC35qBYI2EJuCNw6BQHrH9A-k_1v3cLcAiZxFWbRSCJSTw7AHJh5SDCDcrhZpFRnKzc3ffWJRrqztN3dErgTvpSXl0n1JMuc89PBnO0Q9YQsGz_pFWf4KIpL4bhAWElFamoLvwqv2JPrTrUn27cZd7c-E39Hq7GCaRW-x0KPxgrvoBaRbkpQxKHhlhJDZx77ZMnCtx3Rv8--cdMqclXZYCM4B_uZ2Cov38RXRsGEqYIev8c16dMADImB8iIXHBFXnEGqpAwZDxjmiU7evNjwDXxPoyk5GUzstCi4iZiqVJt9OgStHwlB0WM8_cqikznYN26Xvlj5N8d0vMQRrG79H61Uua0jzTIPLREjwFD2jBZFIFQZpbAMOQmIgdLR93aBCn5g9q7k6tE7PqeY1TmDzMloy9hDJGSku-cPSfCXYDc38RkzNy_SelADAHD3Nw02Wai98a-5Idz3TDcJceQObsPtjCbew=w594-h915-no" width="200" height="306"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6">RED AS BLOOD<br></font><font size="5">by Maddie Morrow</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This one may be my favorite after <em>Falling Snow! </em>(<font size="3">Though <em>The Fairest One </em>is fighting for second place as well.)</font> Which is something because, erm, it involves vampires??? Nooottt my favorite subject. But but but THIS STORY!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>The tale follows Zaig, an assassin, who is told by the queen herself to assassinate the princess, no questions ask. Well, you can imagine how well that goes.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>It’s set in a gritty, Victorian-era-esque setting and oooooh it was deliciously chilling. I really enjoyed how the whole story was in the Huntsman’s POV and BE STILL MY BEATING HEART. Zaig was such an epic protagonist, I can’t even. His inner struggles felt so REAL, and he had a dash of snark to go with his charm. The perfect combination! All the side characters were just as intriguing as well.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Then the PLOT. Just wow. Part mystery, part thriller, part fairytale—this one had it all.</strong> I was <em>hooked</em>, and refused to put the book down until I had made it to the end. It surprised me in so many ways, and had my heart pumping from page one to the end.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Even if you’re not into vampires <font size="2">(I’m with you)</font> still give this one a read! <strong>The writing style is beautiful, the characters come alive, and the twists are epic.</strong> Good grief, I loved it so much!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><u>Content Cautions</u></font><br>This one involves vampires so…it gets bloody. Very bloody, especially near the end. It’s also just pretty dark all the way around. If you’re squeamish, do be warned!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ciRUkXMMoFZNo766V43DJBl_j0MZ11CCHK79b3gZ32A9XAtAroF-iBiEMAsb7HElq9myxQ4oMSOoQ0KtWpSL3XDn8NMIrGjmI1U458gKT4v8mR5mNTpQ1wP93nrrsljCY6iOaB2CmtE9Z9NSneVPPhe49AuxQcBThbYOo3hkK5xhVoIy-xtAooFeiwzLyTjZTFjdzEUsflTTsaOu6SrrS3M5jF7fps2WkbqV6hdsmLys2TnIttkzkPiYroYrUKiYzrhncXUxOvWUcQRpGwc1sfXyIGkQcePpNj1e-Qkv_pVYfXfLL6ISEUztvIUijoDdSzoySd8TLc4uf7hTzlNgxz9le2pzfSEI3Vri4vAT7GC-zDzn5sJ7uDY6st1clTjlvBXgaJAaqxAxqWga9717dUmhteT30ZoQeL9EQALKRWAWRWH631cNYzzzXXol8kvjWneRzLoOhiF2ZJSUp47krcCnIHFJJXoShmDBR3SB3XjZfB6HKJ8uO8e2TZklkEJhFAXc0sB_RrEP6e6KlxDRKN5rMfNXt66oj3VAsMORvYhV4YNHgTEWAWaMb_L5oqZ738ewO5ssKmOhfAnUVZ2yfvs1QHB9Xgzgl2PBZT2DhGLW6ttUpC5AGihQGaAALBBPxp6TMfc21BZP9XuAxRCz_21SiCS8kjY89EuvEzyyHakoBVIGSRtaDCDDKsEsbzQeeLEaNlZcAN_0yqY6Lw=w308-h102-no" width="250" height="88"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rBx9YhO7y7dy8dUKB9CEi7LqYd5tz885kb6yeRaLQ1M74lhX9od1DF8mEEoIl-Jqz6lFbhNvPAo2sf-oKhyI4BfSPR7C70ubvQj3hGLwM82IS4k7xe1Y3zQlnLs6ifMTeVf_SVu9LqoUZ5r0mXYhdtbVN-0dcpWarO-DZjoFDKhyVYK9doVPf3bbW8AgJ8uzsyrKRlYllMBlS_A3xkdG8tiS92yaPELaRGcP2EAZATy0dY9j6mNaBIsA59KxNzsljncwvtOUX0JjI-vRhoaa-tgf8SWC-TtYnzupQRYVSTC--_XHqc9KTAPyjmIG3mRHD_eH9uWpTRz8LLTuTWhh4dglsXzdz3I64qxcqRAq-R_JzMloah0tIu__QwIc9LJv-WUnKcmPmujVV3H_FY0e5VgfLv4TmBp7xuIBUfH2BFLh9ywhi7xJBSHB0HMVDniv4xgNWfSYzdgksbWksd3E7rbPomTcBp8kfEXCErdlyM3tZC2yZ86Er0vPjENJq-ygdDSHz-_oJSMuTsfwUnVq1tTwJe4Ho_dVRa9YuFB8EDMf4oNhbxXXduTdEMd7xi8rDUYeM4oa6jhagtk381EuHNpbFKM69sBgzmvVrbQRLV8intjA5aoh4wtFPJ7eNmyKRxSiqtWv13WuBLe-LM5y8pMUUAl_ToNkL9k-C7QpQUl_acyZWqekpq3NKDKBrfkZPaXxOaLLskK7QWplaw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YlMaJvyxnhOcia6gHTHnjYcshPd4QlvtprIzDp4TkgH9ANC0ACOSzzB9JcjVygAojTTmqkp-kYLz7cV6W5uS71Hj2_LECTtX-MOh8QQaE9qFfbemYycvOE9o_TxVwKQY5oCsT-ZGxsLcTVVDUFm9-8C_TZmWMLG6XHlqV62MrFCg1smlCUSwZlK7AUecibjJKCrptBDyukS5NQRpZfKkMAOhZimbghrv8mkPGXatMuOHFYymxm1_Nr9QxsuvW2-ZOcFjPIslOwmXqSnt_kdmCa91_b5EZnHQSvWr9mxAgjVOc6gJYr42P3dcNPUE3H0QYurbDhpTtL5v6EO25ZVbO91x43qAJwpHc9r0ZIP2fD2TODrO2CGB5i-MPvVRpk3bMt8JsoTHv6EB7qDk_8F8zuc4CJVD5d7i_BaXEita-ntejkmnl2uBcnuYT5G38VCvzSCWkiUw1aNuqTx4PbcqadnGrQ9KJMaxrFk9YRDx2ZIXYVq9zTkypyEoVUXUmaB-WBA00LnWgtV0m82BY2QZoR30RH8aT3VABUJ5dJkAkxIK3xym8VpdLljEAP8urmRXGhhJWws6yuT9yW3iZfriEC3MVCIuyd-lRmNH-sPSOwiW7ReqRO3C_bSv2cQRkKm0o0tIHs0-Aj-308SoYjX3njOEEpYRZLF67BYLL_N35hryp7u4Z3TUX5CsSSMH07z8eFCU4rUkQwv19_Jzlw=w593-h915-no" width="200" height="307"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6">SNOWBIRD AND THE RED SLIPPERS<br></font><font size="5">by Rachael Wallen</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>For the final novella, we take a bit of a different turn, as it’s a contemporary. BUT, it does have a hint of magical realism to it, which was fun.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This follows Snowbird, or Jeong Hayan, her real name, as she takes on a scholarship in a New York dance school.</strong> Though I’ve never been part of the ballet world, I’ve LOVED watching ballet since I was teeny tiny, so I was excited about a setting in a ballet school.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I 100% understand why this won a place in the collection. This author’s writing is astounding. With that said…it wasn’t my favorite.</strong> I have so many thoughts on this little story, that I don’t know if I can put into words.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>My biggest dislikes were that I was just confused all the way through. I think it was the shortest of the collection, not giving us much time to really grasp everything going on, or to get to know the characters as well as we liked. Not only that, but almost the majority of the book is told, and so much of it talks about ballet and the scholarship and, since I’ve never been part of that world, I didn’t really get what all was going on. <strong>It’s so loaded with telling and lush descriptions, I felt like the plot got set on the backburner. Which is sad, because WHOA. This was a unique story, let me tell you!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>At first, it doesn’t seem like a Snow White retelling at all, but THEN it ended up having more Snow White elements than all the others, including things involving ribbon and a comb, which people tend to skip over in Snow White retellings. Yet it also seemed to be much more heavily a retelling of a fairytale called <em>The Red Shoes. </em>Which I was perfectly fine with. Huzzah for retellings of obscure fairytales! But the Snow White elements are still there. In fact, <em>Snow White</em> and <em>The Red Shoes</em> have a couple of similar plot threads at the end, so I totally see why this author combined them. It worked perfectly!<font size="2"> (Sorry, fairytale nerd. XD)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>As I mentioned earlier, this author’s style is so rich and beautiful and unique, I definitely believe she deserved a spot in this collection. I think many people will LOVE this story, even though the style didn’t click with me.</strong> Despite that, it was the type of story that stayed with me long after I had finished. It was both beautiful and chilling, dark but thoughtful, and original all around. It’s the type of story you really just have to experience for yourself, and I definitely recommend doing so!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><u>Content Cautions</u></font><br>This story was just…chilling. The original <em>The Red Shoes</em> story (or <em>Snow White </em>for that matter) is, erm, not exactly a happy, fluffy tale, and neither is this one. I liked the whole unnerving chill surrounding the story. It added a heart-stopping mystery to the whole thing. But if you’re expecting some fluffy contemporary fairytale retelling then…you’re going to be surprised. That’s all I’ll say. XD</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-buQCzqDuFg_20Lev3QA3BuYRFk48cvmTm3RNLOBIzJaptX_vU1clDyLpGqtrgcimvM90X09pghcB5Wa26762UkqcBk6pboiSlTv2i6HERBH-HEapKGS3kOPJZUSZ-7G24P0eqE3UoHgoO8KeJHs1o27wOBfuIlq4q3i1SovkSpQXAFm5znoKxNnlKV9-QbEPdEM1Fc79zBxO99WqkI83cg5UURiDkdUP9iNzgjdnSvhGNoYwv-LFd7G5xg-5E0cESRuh1xOzBOzFWWaX-0RJmkhNvdX8DQjV58a3GOyc1UsDLF8fUaFuISDE-mAmMQp3KgbSvsb0PS2fuT7gunpZrehocffk7luWfvBDwMMA2fJ6WythOCZ7tAg9nKeZgaF9wPNBPZanB3Yf7K4bDXh4J8upROzC2GoStSUprGZt8KkTAqShONr2Xjj7hpY9daZ5484ChtEya0vwVvjYJwDchdpAZ7AY7TiXbwYGB9L3h5V4OksM9W-dpYdL-8BcY2Voq_F3xk5lhLzXs6wGlA6stYwTzGeiQlYAwgfio_qlzafTWYH4QThwbF94FqOAs9NsfZ9rvIiNmRR-tWK-MqKG1ruFMPbZwC46cfXQr3efkf8YL1CKstwoLjrF3XFSh0E1OYdDmE8USjpdbJFr73pLJXEqNc-TOzxhqR4YltDfQ5lH4n9-EoPOXhKePMT42MM9pwAkys4Zc5-lWK4BA=w308-h102-no" width="250" height="88"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Lhalp5Tvunrj7HyAGB_pf1UyS24447Hcld8l7XYHkdVaZWcyU5FqO0Ro7S-KoRVuCoSMWjOPwDD3svZJNKIPJJ7f-FizK3vwXZErDLNm1r9NW_dHYUYlcCJpPrRz6iSEjSK_KBIYPFAbFAA3jR9e-t8ikDJVMsf9-h7Z9ijVHjJWCEDb_3KwFh7oFyI5ae1UF-cfnJfEH1TP4Ct2tk9FOVXn2DFXXe88U-8y_w9YLjLYLNQutEUgDHx1W31NG0xlyQVmwdnOUswFTpiU-P9DX42PkhVoWkmu8He3DUhseSsfHDT4QYQXrsV3az1suk2DSEqs6rnIZWaHKijsNwFVjOwLX1k3Bg8CyqO7BQdY2Ujn1eWfS9NZ1a-vRbP6Sv7eeLu6u5hc6ZVOegmrBpz2ErdNO3hbQHMsiB07ODnHxevQgYhVXkwlFlyDgEBCw6l81WZmiGyyz-086MVD6t5xa23KlpUogMmE7L_wLq-iHwPW8joSwKgcLjTO7MqES9TxXm5fxGPA1Np9ju4OKOFleNjZKrM_H54nWuTHyHa9LAFvLBmNoIhP5oRgp0SpXHI2ZkpqNvpLkp3crcJLH9F7N8Zzc_3fXBBn1uyzkBMNv5Hghyqhjix1AnjQkizMBuLVm3NvJpk67LoMOcS4ydzrXeiGNq0psMuir4GHdr9pVlILEAEzN8Dr8lTAbQf_hL8EFX1dZ7VBMdA-ZnLfmg=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Overall, I found this an absolutely wonderful collection to end these anthologies with. I’m so sad the excitement of the contests is over and that we won’t be getting new, beautiful fairytale anthologies every year anymore, but it’s been wonderful while it’s lasted!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><u><font size="5">CONCLUSION</font></u><br>With a wide range of settings, plots, and protagonists, this really does have something for all the types of fairytale-lovers. I was enraptured by each unique story, loved seeing the utter originality put into reimagining Snow White, and am so glad I gave this a read!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ciRUkXMMoFZNo766V43DJBl_j0MZ11CCHK79b3gZ32A9XAtAroF-iBiEMAsb7HElq9myxQ4oMSOoQ0KtWpSL3XDn8NMIrGjmI1U458gKT4v8mR5mNTpQ1wP93nrrsljCY6iOaB2CmtE9Z9NSneVPPhe49AuxQcBThbYOo3hkK5xhVoIy-xtAooFeiwzLyTjZTFjdzEUsflTTsaOu6SrrS3M5jF7fps2WkbqV6hdsmLys2TnIttkzkPiYroYrUKiYzrhncXUxOvWUcQRpGwc1sfXyIGkQcePpNj1e-Qkv_pVYfXfLL6ISEUztvIUijoDdSzoySd8TLc4uf7hTzlNgxz9le2pzfSEI3Vri4vAT7GC-zDzn5sJ7uDY6st1clTjlvBXgaJAaqxAxqWga9717dUmhteT30ZoQeL9EQALKRWAWRWH631cNYzzzXXol8kvjWneRzLoOhiF2ZJSUp47krcCnIHFJJXoShmDBR3SB3XjZfB6HKJ8uO8e2TZklkEJhFAXc0sB_RrEP6e6KlxDRKN5rMfNXt66oj3VAsMORvYhV4YNHgTEWAWaMb_L5oqZ738ewO5ssKmOhfAnUVZ2yfvs1QHB9Xgzgl2PBZT2DhGLW6ttUpC5AGihQGaAALBBPxp6TMfc21BZP9XuAxRCz_21SiCS8kjY89EuvEzyyHakoBVIGSRtaDCDDKsEsbzQeeLEaNlZcAN_0yqY6Lw=w308-h102-no" width="300" height="106"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Because any anthology with <em>Falling Snow, The Fairest One, and Red as Blood </em>deserves five stars. But <em>Raven’s Heir</em> and <em>Snowbird and the Red Slippers </em>were worth the read as well!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Nu57QJTdeyQTfHW_bIFKlPcebxgOrMbeoMXOT2XXzmVmXbJHSqKxWjvJjI35MQqGZz_V4AtpX_SCVN_sKbHNndt_omMnIe_g6Pg_uKne8stXaK1bfAVyCCdssu-untAF9Yin4p3Gg1mKFl6-m4cjEai1lj52OkB3F1A4eZPWawSIX2U0ol8jqM3TM_VN-k209rCMKYpGhFK15K4uQhMOmHSWh67fnnByu2Ljq812rf5My9lMs7dX9EZa_YaWaqfU8Oa-3o8214lhUcGYdCJg6W-QzSpxXbUZDA5_vZyw9lyUHiWALXOIyfj9mXtA_5OW-IqdjkIWVifXMBFCHu_9yG-z7ucVxVECZJ7Inr9k62xeyGSvz2mBKLHHWlkKsrLLoo6c3BiFoJq-UGCG8OygdRp3EOXfHgau0OswvurAFnAVVkH2t11gO6IcstnZwcfQbnczYALvQKgPqDHRTRKi8XlLdHQ7nXxBj0tQY7xs54c8APJZbLCiYeGf9G3hpzNoBU2ieVU4A9-A7nxhqLTunEEhqoHWX6JaorumCJ7WcIIjdCet7xldMalxUFYLcYUem1-cwgR1TG5ftF1bpReqKr_35KdCR6QGO5RaxHN5KIGzMecUI64UoGmKy4AcRxlUy6MooAaUz8qM7rha7JcSiz4zNQtrJaPIRAljuuTKZLZEjEgNPSpJvRWYyR8bu6LLCkt93PMna_t_rjXSxw=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">Have you read this collection? BECAUSE I NEED TO FANGIRL. If you have, which story was your favorite? If you haven’t, which one appeals to you the most? And who’s sad the Rooglewood Fairytale Contests are over??? *sniff, sniff* It’s been such a good time!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-15726299647831375902019-01-21T10:12:00.001-06:002019-01-21T10:12:52.493-06:00Take Your Time: Thoughts and Encouragement for the New Year<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aFID4wlpNpSaFXGBFT-ENWUtrjZ_d5fbKhGZq3po_Fg4HpvNIXBCuEzRunMexPvN4mPZRcPBYu32JOXzdwLCThhwtcebSRfFbmocF4kaJBr9dMMwLqJN4I_LsefOfC8mcau3UfYhgfV0g4fptNYdGo_ZxRKXfMBRTze7QjXptsywmUrEtgS60DyhWiS4gPqUhHZB8BWE5A9KS0MXae7QBZn1f76HmbC33L1jlgh2D5xe4WLKnuF0Z5RJfovs5nSx3J83iFiiQzZ3_m_JfuGZWaHhbbsZ9MylAWOO7PMb-skzcKvhaxR2HFCQppbLTFVt16m63daAXmLmxBcoZNFZGzP-eepdEfpxk9AFBqggCaH5L-vW6iMHcMq-ohE3mIM89nw2qNm6gnxMAyTwpi3MAygti-DjYO1vun3sOeAEWi4io6UX8tztFGwHkyrJRnc4FJrUflILlq675wa9W8SAuixHNy9VTpaneavZEoMFQH-adXze9M1kH_14lLARLDVJqRup4MNSvrAzZmCrhDk3HbRI0LA6PCOsqkaZ4Y8pfG25-ttsqwC43S-Y9oFaTGlyvb8j85rLuwaTZu8kCVyv7UMH8gNnlTBxbRj566vgqJG4PRaaBa2IZduS6MdJZ5Rh9Z6U0G63pvW9lF7bTMy-9JDWM1-TbWHWV34vfDz3J3vu8OXGXGGFHCLKdJCT0yl0pL7YFsP4vbVfIBaf3g=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">I feel like the last week of December is a peaceful, fun time, as we’re enjoying that final bits of Christmas without the bustle of getting <em>ready</em> for Christmas. A time to take a moment to cling to the last remnants of the year, before school and work and <em>life</em> take over once more. But then January 1st hits and it’s like the lulling roll of the train screeches to a sudden halt and you must leap out with the crowd and run, run, <em>run </em>or you’ll be behind, the whole year will be ruined, everyone will be ahead of you</font></strong>.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>That’s how it felt like for me this year. Usually, I take all of December off from writing, and a lot of other things, and enjoy a good break before diving into a new set of goals come the new year. <strong>But this particular December, though fantastic in many ways, ended up being pretty stressful, and did not prove to be the laidback, gloriously lazy month I had planned.</strong> First of all, the whole first week was spent finishing my NaNo novel in a flurry of <font size="3">(way too many)</font> words. So I really didn’t even get started on my December break until the second week. Secondly, because NaNo took up like…every waking second of my November, I was woefully unprepared for Christmas and suddenly it was almost <em>here </em>and I had next to no gifts for anyone. So the next couple of weeks of December were spent in a rush getting all the Christmas-y things done. <strong>Really, all the last three months of 2018 proved to be pretty stressful and tiring.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Then, next thing I knew, 2018 was over. New Year’s hit, and my social media feeds were exploding with messages of <em><font size="5">“start the year strong”</font></em> and people diving straight into huge projects, writing thousands of words in a day, reorganizing everything they owned, making gorgeous journals with their entire year planned out. And I’m sitting over here like…can I just take a nap?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Usually, I <em>love </em>New Year’s. The idea of a clean slate, of new possibilities, of unknown adventures ahead, new goals to write down and work toward—it thrills me! But this year? When January 1st hit, instead of excited, I was depressed and overwhelmed. I was <em>not </em>ready for my December break to be over. I did not feel refreshed, had no motivation, and hadn’t even thought of my 2019 goals.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I kind of poked around at things, tried to be productive, but I wasn’t feeling it. But but but it was the NEW YEAR. I <em>had</em> to jump right into things. The year goes by so FAST. I didn’t want to waste a single second. If I didn’t jump on a giant year to-do list that second, I’d be a failure. Right?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5">*DEEP BREATH*</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vga72be7DufbDqBVPS1mVOJhcBF_oCkPnJY1VOQsRKXT8tyqazRhnr7Qh3EA_MvZJOw0OCl3M7Z91icnY7hFSADEQA7zZlKy56y7_j7evopZMr3Su3l3txsmPl7s0mKy6TMWt-Nma0d9AHxg0hBSQ0IzhB-m54L3v7XULG3SZJhpQG9czne0Ii7oXafYcwWLlCWAF83NSBdzfd54GPnp20MY6t77LaQ0k1Ryy_r7VPooO_qlmDB04X7KzLgU_V7fJCslcoPPlOEZmyfEnG18TYJ6SELnTM1vh2VOYYQkBvvUVxu8cyDw0xPum6mcEQ6vu9DdIuVh99XQ3vwEd03Y6W4xdKYBNZYpcBHqz1IC3BuVuvDJeLYK6tN3_Ra2qyzwZkCaae8V0h1TZ_C3PnUNaAYpcY9upKZ5mIb1QtxmGr6m06sPkWZbD-eg0onelFJfHEsmvIiGNnk0StUJb6lKG3ljLGwPIuEwFU62CiD9saxK1DQEhbHuVK1QumBcS8vDLeVXlkAUopohDf3_mHgJw3v9Bu_fWXHvlfcnTwOq7_lNu6D-8nv0sPLPosyr3TpQP8uL_0KnvMai1pNs4fp0ffPKBewTkj5mMWwfPfTtWf4qi0pBLKup2tuexFV1NEreBzm26c-b3JCqOiBwaP2in6_hN_c9NapnqJMq8kNSs9K3gta5VwB8tGIf7TdHUkyIndlqi6JqZb3FlgTa-g=w1221-h915-no" width="550" height="414"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>The answer: No. <strong>There was no sense in trying to force everything on myself at once, when I wasn’t even sure what all I wanted to accomplish this year.</strong> When good sense finally returned to my thick skull, I decided there would be no harm in taking just one more week off. <strong>Just because so many others were being ultra productive that first week of the year, DID NOT MEAN I had to.</strong> We all work at our own pace, have our own limits. I was falling into that toxic comparison game, like I so often do, and just stressing myself out for NO REASON.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>So I took another week off. <strong>And it’s amazing what just seven days of no pressure to be productive can do for the mind.</strong> Instead of forcing goals on myself, I subconsciously started figuring out exactly what needed to be accomplished this year. Instead of trying to squeeze out social media/blogging content and hating doing it, I started to itch to get back into the social media world. Instead of never having any desire to touch a single one of my stories ever again, I began to desperately miss them. <strong>As a result, once the week was over, I was raring to go, was able to sit down and make a list of 2019 goals in no time, slap out a blog post, and get prepped for editing Burning Thorns.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Because here’s the thing: <strong><font size="5">You really DON’T have to hit the year running.</font></strong> After all, New Year’s is just a week after Christmas. And maybe you had a stressful holiday, maybe you need a little holiday <em>from </em>your holidays. Maybe you need some time to recover from the Christmas craziness, some time to mull over your year and make plans, before diving straight into doing ALL THE THINGS.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I think we have in our heads</strong><font size="3"> (or at least I know I do!)</font> <strong>that we’re going to get woefully behind on all our plans if we don’t get a jumpstart on them the second the calendar changes to a new year.</strong> Because a year goes by so FAST. And it feels like there’s just not enough TIME. Ever.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But you know what?<strong> If you <em>start</em> the year burned out, how are you going to keep going for the next 365 days?</strong> That’s what I was about to do. After heavily plotting NaNo during all of October, <em>doing</em> NaNo in November and through part of December, and then running around like a headless chicken trying to get things prepped for Christmas, I was TIRED. I was in no way ready to jump on a ginormous list of goals. 2018 was a craaaazy and productive year. I used up every ounce of creativity I had.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">I needed rest.</font></strong> But wouldn’t I be wasting time if I didn’t get started on things right away? Actually, no. <strong>Starting 2019 <em>already</em> burned out creatively would be wasting the entire <em>year.</em> A year spent creatively drained would be a way bigger waste then taking 7 measly days out of 365 to refuel myself.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/L7FODv0cgNUO7m_7TEpeJru518bi28a6pHR2-X70SJd4_BoWhW-hpKBeRiK4aZqkjV9mgS-uqwFU5YbuVD-sfw6qIVI_sPWo0SQAbkbiTtKunQsjF0LzyFiN8WEFnvpKd_Sc7A2jEKk6Kb4YMrHQiqmNT3vsveAuDQNGuMNjukAjOoZfvEqSOwub5fCiWQwKiP1ZrdbizfMRosGAE6VGyWIHycUFLWrZ0EuvNXooy1WKIV8_T499GVbpYsM6jbuuTvHCIXLYAdQLTSnyeJ7Fbf3iz9mGtZq1OSlJ-4lE1QXWG91hO5YnUY_tr8T1Ev19Mni7cq3TxkKnAOriavooEgB0byXBPNqV0vtijWwkvfGu34jpXoYqky9Gls0bYUak-fjqNs2aQD-rkUo8Gq8oofr5JjgRmDuYN0XFRs0oscE2mpFVOanU44KKGBw_OY7D4EwFuwacRhzkTeYLWC5RNiXDMbEKMQHB6SA4DZ07Olv29OeezJQ_bCRdrdAapoy3ttQPRDu6u0RNRhkQJjIgPQHOGG1jEQdS57EN-Hdng0Keban-Kty6hNbhqQxwVCvXQidLFVH3Kxn-0G2HkIewiv7RolgOUa18Jw-6NaibKd4GfhFDFzNxRdcHYYFsHP6_v3QPseVReu6ee3V3JoJq7xfVmI7c-sXJf4fuHpwX6WVyWBybas_nA_tAK-irEl-Exf7Nywv6ru8rgpG-Pg=w1221-h915-no" width="550" height="414"></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Here we are over halfway through January already, and you may be stressed out because the first month of the year is almost over, and you haven’t gotten a good start on your goals. Maybe you’re wondering how it’s all going to get done. Maybe you feel like a failure because it seems like everyone <em>else</em> is already marking things off their list of goals, and you haven’t even touched yours. Maybe haven’t even made year goals yet.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">STOP. Stop worrying and stressing and comparing. I’m here to tell you IT’S OKAY. I give you 100% permission to take a breath, release the guilt.</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I know it feels like the years fly by, and yes, we’re already past halfway in January, but you know what? <strong>There’s 11 months after this one. And countless more years ahead. <font size="5">YOU HAVE TIME.</font> It does not have to be done at once.</strong> I’ve been falling back into Stressful Mode<sup><font size="2">TM</font></sup> myself because I haven’t accomplished everything I had hoped to by this point. But does that mean it won’t get done? NO. There is time. Even if it doesn’t feel like it, THERE IS.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Whether you’ve attacked your goals with full force, haven’t touched them yet, or maybe haven’t even made a list of goals, there is NO NEED for guilt. <strong>Don’t make the mistake I almost did and burn yourself out before the year really even gets started. We’ve got lots of amazing months ahead. Let’s not waste them stressing.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Back in 2017, I really learned to <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2017/09/soak-up-moment.html" target="_blank">SOAK UP THE MOMENTS</a>. And I think it’s a lesson I need to relearn. <strong>Not every moment in life is meant to be spent being productive.</strong> I’m a perfectionist and a workaholic, which results in soooo much of my life spent in front of my laptop getting All The Things done. <strong>But sometimes taking time to read a book or watch a movie with my siblings is 1000x more important than getting a blog post written.</strong> It’s something I have to remind myself again and again and again. And as we set foot in this new year, I’m, once more, trying to drill it into my thick skull.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Yes, I have a lot of ambitions for 2019. But I also don’t want to waste the moments. To miss out on precious times with the people I love or just letting myself take a breath for the sake of scratching something off my to-do list. I am <em>far </em>too often enslaved to those to-do lists, to the superficial things in life, instead of the things that truly matter.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>If you’re like me, and have those to-do lists cracking their whips at you, or have guilt eating away as each day of the new year passes without it being spent in hours of productivity, <font size="5">let it all go.</font> Shove the to-do list in the closet, take a breath, and know THERE IS TIME. <strong>Instead of hitting the year running, take a leisurely walk into 2019.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>Give yourself grace and take your time.</strong></font> I promise you’ll be glad you did.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/JQpZzSpZPYcOySJHH4sAXuf6RccvdPuroEINJAKRC-8xODBTzIkyEAQuhy2ENg2xxb5O1zYfIwBsb7dD-A09PYqf-grPybG06bkOcvVRkQGAKLseeLaL6F8_lKoiR7EkXJR5P2plyysD2IMsD8W76_jOfXM_d_IeV8jOjwms-B_HdXGHm97L5DiC3h7xiF0mZlR5R4RA_g8wiJ_FAqJ4qasm2Wdf1T2lE--RNXktnV9kxQMgw_FMFP8O3Oqq8ItKLOd00jArTWOjA2RNaDvuYeDB1IocD7rbbcz2V7Sd8dyJ8PIHqshKx4n9_vXzz_43NnhnWLW5FrlmhbQTtWerEBN6k_JWT_ZcmPK9uBToR4HWZ9sXLdYIMxU2zePc-S6S3V53Zy8WUxg31Ra-TDWG-1EEGlKfjQo29_SgGsyk7lvEAgqYQpdOHPg6zT5luni4oVLNN5EUdXF0qdn2T7A2b4oGXPDT9BHVPJLMNMWlWQ-KTzNyYZ0E6Eshy_i97wfloSi50I7_kiXB6Feds8ReVn-IhJWW7a8QPFZm9brTchC-bP2rL0k7K04H0kConM79Sqgj8lF718MhCvFioiXLBaUhy2Kh6HDm8sIPi0D2Is9FeMId58v4ZKdUfPzyjwmZOy5cBa48XKlxLdaVjO52ZvOvJJz5EQvpzK68wWpoJfQZQSGqjDx_6F5hngR2Xk8zw2707dhPH1AwPGL8EQ=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">Am I the only one who gets eaten by guilt when I don’t start the year off ultra productively? Who else struggled to get it going this year? What are YOUR tips for fighting off those beginning-of-the-year blues? I would LOVE to hear them!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-1863146607580584512019-01-14T10:15:00.001-06:002019-01-14T10:15:18.463-06:00My Top 5 Books and Movies of 2018<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4jJZWU6CUusWm_v38P1I-T7HUFz5CPxHihL1zTIEgS0DP-ZusH8vebLnUYHJ9gF7DcSaZM8wbIgSAF_JKkWcGMknJAQ7Y_vnJm-g9SsyUt7ADynDqYPhzObAmSbmH-2lUJhSu_uQ2ntDImtc-WZw5-KyIvv2HnR-DocZ-EYC7WUY47E764V2moxLMptJ4UUlYqd0J5CjqKaS6OyU2btkparD-Dwutxs-iICTeV-4YKIKudl-G-hHZeQ6XlDgEjhUuMJ8FtyDifSynElcUmdU4uOJIskf4zGMyjQiETqvvkbfHawPk8CCVks5krmBmZK3FF6_b0c6qOugx6ucvftcPBFlZ4XFciEiATnj21UM8u5n7j5-yNSap90cdCloDS75vVP04A_4SvuQnpav3tVKmyfd43Sm6shLWa8dwRLeBeaTGv5BlAHr50U84FXv84A83BiPgW5QSWDZ99U2LJYZWsDENoZXyAk5jR0yWbc5wMtgaHza3QIAF5L3yldcw1EeyxPJrcEz411zepgydqiWlLSA2jlb1mVdwtja6wjSF8vSkfjbsL9YqsDo-xIYPyQqw_leN-muxls3c7hQsywVrr6hybiijPuNET2ZQRFiGhapx4tNjYE8KLqUsgY9dBa6i_1n1crFzMKyyvOMAkSZ7wY_tfZBw5kNnRnPkSamysV7jsuznGjakLWONGXYqL2NAbuzRS84GhjUpxtNyQ=w1223-h915-no" width="600" height="450"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>It is <em>never</em> too late for lists, right? Because…like, since I took a break from blogging at the end of the year, I didn’t do all those fun year-end list posts everybody and their pet chinchillas were doing. Soooo I thought I’d just do them NOW. Because LISTS.</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>If I had to sum my life up it’d be: Writing, reading, and watching movies. <font size="2">(Geek, anyone?)</font> <strong>Since I talk about my writing probably more than I <em>should</em> here, I thought today I’d switch over to my other two favorite subjects and list my top five favorite reads and movies watched in 2018!</strong> These weren’t necessarily movies and books that came out in 2018 <font size="3">(though some are)</font>, but MY first time reading/watching them.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>NOTE:</strong> I’m revealing <em>no</em> big spoilers in this post. So if you haven’t read/seen some of these, DON’T WORRY. You should be safe. :)</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Let the geeky-dom begin!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xDarXORURdILnprzkhKVnm4btChPUGly3vuxNg1spBJDJj5qkXVd8trPB_IdnEpHseIHkQ5B8BhxqEE-ebvOB0mNoTD6MGiYhgpJDLx4xTy8oiL0oAiKgNlNoPTmzl0eJYFg-7H-lk7O6T1DKf2GQMlP5GvHXYfQUlLeryV240BCMUHFSR2l9wduakTkiVH46cgHaYm7jSgKnC6gamoh3DNnBdm4akmAbiBChzPd1V6dbzFsPvbsO7l81DBof7CoQvDF7L7FzZrbI3iwtZiKvxFeDJkFFNvc4PYZI0_5sEpl7M5IdPiG3WjB55JqcWepVd9dJ-eBPjhakwmTFcr38LnH-McbDEvnmyPqTBdLTvSQ0QqAQYBSatlVJ1IlayiOLY0ig10zK5Ei19s_jVdlFN_jUW5aotW9mUyesFCiLO17q52Eb1eaO-zpUlUs0XaeKBz9CQbgsG0x5pzYYw2m59VDTAU-fXZ-cjdfz6qgBZZbxq3bmI3evOuG-hZ6WFQBfdBi5NKq4kLvNtGvfiyapLYdbbsi4yKgdbkLvFDrnxORl9PtzLlK1mof0hhk7OPRO7zsLaEUtntw0Uz79Q5OS0UZ8KNEv18SBpNKQ0YyGFPJtmkKcknoKvr3mNoQLz5wiXEgykhqDyE570F1MuAmVoT0sj9kj2BWrjobroBAaT0v292zHyTD03y5f_J7fwAlEdAkTxsxajyXfJEYaA=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">TOP 5 BOOKS OF 2018</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xDarXORURdILnprzkhKVnm4btChPUGly3vuxNg1spBJDJj5qkXVd8trPB_IdnEpHseIHkQ5B8BhxqEE-ebvOB0mNoTD6MGiYhgpJDLx4xTy8oiL0oAiKgNlNoPTmzl0eJYFg-7H-lk7O6T1DKf2GQMlP5GvHXYfQUlLeryV240BCMUHFSR2l9wduakTkiVH46cgHaYm7jSgKnC6gamoh3DNnBdm4akmAbiBChzPd1V6dbzFsPvbsO7l81DBof7CoQvDF7L7FzZrbI3iwtZiKvxFeDJkFFNvc4PYZI0_5sEpl7M5IdPiG3WjB55JqcWepVd9dJ-eBPjhakwmTFcr38LnH-McbDEvnmyPqTBdLTvSQ0QqAQYBSatlVJ1IlayiOLY0ig10zK5Ei19s_jVdlFN_jUW5aotW9mUyesFCiLO17q52Eb1eaO-zpUlUs0XaeKBz9CQbgsG0x5pzYYw2m59VDTAU-fXZ-cjdfz6qgBZZbxq3bmI3evOuG-hZ6WFQBfdBi5NKq4kLvNtGvfiyapLYdbbsi4yKgdbkLvFDrnxORl9PtzLlK1mof0hhk7OPRO7zsLaEUtntw0Uz79Q5OS0UZ8KNEv18SBpNKQ0YyGFPJtmkKcknoKvr3mNoQLz5wiXEgykhqDyE570F1MuAmVoT0sj9kj2BWrjobroBAaT0v292zHyTD03y5f_J7fwAlEdAkTxsxajyXfJEYaA=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Yu9W4MI4IEp_24a1Yo5_sDY36-7dP257Vp1LQYBGEEwp8zownibWIkJaGqXe1r_ndLJPqwfW5h8nMZAxi8e2sNyC5m5oGNuVA0weA9bPD5EezJ_Djcmij8wKgEN4IX9yyTOurzDD3IGr1QBwqSIlWAp2sAamNVso47K5WB3Q6Sf3ClYad9Pr-Zz5H56yKwj5qcG8HYEvpHmDnlRI6gBfbCSNHQq3KoEKQEraetqudPkCJEIBF9j_wcP-x1IgXv3FBNZmp_UfxSYf0v2jIgDtlYXBrl3PvXgtVA7OAd3Vh5ryO3DXOyK4xipH8pd0h_lN3e8_jqq303Ah7uTELr58agRPwj61IN9HYjAQACuRaCkrP0K1ySg3h3hzQnyryPEiCHQBxzY-bMm4nRXkni0phvdu1p5I_49nkEponb6X84w0hs62sx2GxBlApVn-LY_M9zvmB1XmwnoqlNsJypXCtbo-X4Y8saq-_wKF0W72tkmBEj9RyN-AkAqDrmPQ9kc8farmcjVpTO1aG8vqZMJtI7Wzz70RjwhS6b9u-F1OA9vVNKXOkYj6TjASqsnK4Az8ymaoY_1qEOemtKg2gNEFowxKis-m3A6YteW9zL-WHACt_4heP5CKex7oKUOQqgpwSjfY3gxJ_fzbQOZcEDLvFzy9DK2qSh8RGFEJMwvq_y9FeBSWFZH8ABoqCzZV-igbhW_bqiZpqaIQ3_7zrw=w1221-h915-no" width="550" height="414"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Okay, so actually <em>choosing</em> my 5 favorite reads was SO HARD. I honest to goodness loved almost everything I read last year. Which is a miracle. It was a good reading year! I really don’t even know if these were my top faves <font size="2">(decision ACK)</font>, but they were definitely <em>some</em> of my tippity top favorites!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>In order of when I read them…</p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q5e_aDo01ly1CZJlySTJzGmTd-VmY1iSNjSxhokmv5ssDuAGd2enJPd1kWx7szAK0GH0A1buLL09dNZqCDExI4qaSufk6pJOtCslpcYEpOsPG-gt-3xy5oTcE_YXEZE6nRDHGt-Bo-dreS86c8xlq8I0-sOuQJ5tblfMnx3Z789A7F3jNEYNSeBhtGK31ZY67wT7aw1N8obHxBnwWcLSCfn_sN_JNnLr_RkIUxQO-8Oe-_rIq9zdwfkaQ0y0W45Cee08SRTv4VvH92qL10t3v5SbDW_btS5UZb909a_IEvDVn2OrMJ_bk0O0WDC7ER4IlWsUMgGnmhRQZGs_eiJ7SLhAnu0cpcI5LiijbM-F92fPmw9nq3c2h3p6gv5C4cAmkhiZ3t8iKlVpilP7UyH7zxW4T0b_i0U38yllPuLmXJyFhZkRP7LEO7iWgVDpHNPFwJJ0l9L4VmmdSqSQYC-KpGcVraTf5wVCUMYgB7o0aq3GyK3hVEiUKht9JuMcWulHAqGozX4Ref-n1oNyg48dvHXEsUt7e4GUDowknT1ppgGogQSD28GEd2hlMV3xVLu5vVr3M5HhrRIpEC8QQpFyHt0tK55xex-z2xD5bJOBuFbdSF3Pyh98UTmH8epIbJYp6T26VknM6zavo1Z5b0sPDNrog6f9GcV2cdNLQrpzecY8r6YKvC512aJjo5DzqcXN8oNeN2w9cmiO6HQlLw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LA2ED5qkb2PJbtKwVm0emhjC86ErZhfjhgyWEFOpBQxt1RjW8UnyYqZRZrE-uusyHtfQdrE6PhE5ab4v0umaXX7pX9dt4zrvOp0VuUzqWPR9KacQ4P9eDSvAaMlFeDjpyOGR-Dn9gdQ9HLI-yF2L6nD0WEC4ig-ogSbmZbXpy_EHEfI6ftuu1csCt45T_mNZPobuUTJHk-X2f4vQzg4cbnHa4xAByYD0uNAqV5znEU9kMq65bRuYIAm4cPZkv0ZgJ9dPok294o5gnsWTqMGU0R6Ze9-Fuce49J8f1gGJf1F28owDibdSgWCoSxii4QRJRHgg8QHtcRvk4ILprChmaHAJx50DAHP-tlx4k7fA_S2iR4dkQA9Ev8e5zSo0Y49HN927-TDE8Vi-YL5RZxAMrUoVC6idwWlW8Dv8YGXwk_754Ac0dOOoSfEHeigBhSoXNE6k6uUGBYcwKmjxerfvi2t6vXePjCCcEl6wvE9QWQf2UZvIDRzVvy-rTP0qEgMln5jx6q3lmxyg6CDxJQ2HOL0FE6l6WU2oAvITNm4rIOdZJzR_PdyXt5PyM4ee7mCr1EkbaCkk_VQSd_HDPUcdN8Adkdr3kAT-Gt9SUEDOUqqiFrmhhBdJHQAlpd2FsvqxpQCo3-Lyx6HfHgTCL8wlLXQ10CQ_Adq8yCEabeshdzyB3GwTyn6HEqHxRmxnksp6FSdmqQUzOnGKdPIgUA=w284-h401-no" width="220" height="308"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29772863-wires-and-nerve" target="_blank">WIRES AND NERVE</a><br></font><font size="5">by Marissa Meyer</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>A GIFT TO US LUNARTICS.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><em>Wires and Nerve</em> is a graphic novel that follows <em>The Lunar Chronicles </em></strong><font size="3">(only one of my most favorite series EVER)</font><strong>. And this time Iko is the star.</strong> Yessss.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>The plot is pretty simplistic. Not a lot happens, and there’s some random scenes that seemed to be there just to feature members of the Rampion Crew. But honestly? I DIDN’T CARE. I think the <em>point </em>was just to delight the fans in visiting their beloved characters again. And it succeeded! I was squealing each time a new one appeared. Plus having a whole story set in Iko’s hilarious POV this time was a DELIGHT.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>It’s definitely one you’re going to want to pickup <em>after</em> reading <em>The Lunar Chronicles. </em>Otherwise it’ll make nooo sense and spoil, erm, EVERYTHING. But if you’re a “Lunartic” like me YOU NEED DIS.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Also, I can’t decide if I liked the first volume or second (<em><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34930815-gone-rogue" target="_blank">Wires and Nerve: Gone Rogue</a></em>) better. THEY WERE BOTH SO GOOD. But it’s really just one story anyway, you can’t really have on without the other, so let’s just go with both!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9du8E-FRjaI3_qU0vI6-OqpTHVd4gFr7uG3_Sg4dL2KW6vHt4uie0HWrTpvyN_3ugdxFDayATBr47L3VUP8bGmI72nhulIWagXQpLkO1qRPgJTeIB--1-P0wIXHdQvabreACSePU8_TOLvg2ccnlnocfET9YlisSxn53qD_X8PztBQrCZToE4nUZcli_4CvzFDqD3b7GEq9PGIVIXeoeF399d7szT7Q8DanDdsizrXt-kR-KS8fgvuiRRgdv3fytxxJXkaGV46W83zvS0lKhhcl0spj1CmJ4YXPrPKShT0rDZd-pTG2eLHxq_MD8GNzOj6gniJZos4CRmtUhUCAB5a9U7DxwMydLVSM5e7ISgESmdUnxoECFbJKezuWYt85qHnzuJXhDB1Sch4lTNItzIJQnpwc93_gS8ZOxP8Xx4mA8_b7Pxb_Znui4LFmvlJVa1Kfn6TcTzcO8n-l-_-GVsySCVjU3EApTvaEh7P_ZKwM4LeNdTvInUJD9sNwSHVit5EyOQHlumvRxN9mrM9j-xYA9LkRn9yoH0TXVChkeH4ZM7FIswuqf9Adr4ox1flMG8I7Bm8NDR8kRTzFoe9m4evihgptN1Ll7MkykqY3LuGXT8l8QuU0uOhHAo-8DhsiLv7J7DgsGvMpUpazO3U9H01qButBibj8cfo6oA1HfMdrIm4q3grZMN8C__h_FlRN579_f0yzJU5QsxdBRjQ=w300-h189-no"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q5e_aDo01ly1CZJlySTJzGmTd-VmY1iSNjSxhokmv5ssDuAGd2enJPd1kWx7szAK0GH0A1buLL09dNZqCDExI4qaSufk6pJOtCslpcYEpOsPG-gt-3xy5oTcE_YXEZE6nRDHGt-Bo-dreS86c8xlq8I0-sOuQJ5tblfMnx3Z789A7F3jNEYNSeBhtGK31ZY67wT7aw1N8obHxBnwWcLSCfn_sN_JNnLr_RkIUxQO-8Oe-_rIq9zdwfkaQ0y0W45Cee08SRTv4VvH92qL10t3v5SbDW_btS5UZb909a_IEvDVn2OrMJ_bk0O0WDC7ER4IlWsUMgGnmhRQZGs_eiJ7SLhAnu0cpcI5LiijbM-F92fPmw9nq3c2h3p6gv5C4cAmkhiZ3t8iKlVpilP7UyH7zxW4T0b_i0U38yllPuLmXJyFhZkRP7LEO7iWgVDpHNPFwJJ0l9L4VmmdSqSQYC-KpGcVraTf5wVCUMYgB7o0aq3GyK3hVEiUKht9JuMcWulHAqGozX4Ref-n1oNyg48dvHXEsUt7e4GUDowknT1ppgGogQSD28GEd2hlMV3xVLu5vVr3M5HhrRIpEC8QQpFyHt0tK55xex-z2xD5bJOBuFbdSF3Pyh98UTmH8epIbJYp6T26VknM6zavo1Z5b0sPDNrog6f9GcV2cdNLQrpzecY8r6YKvC512aJjo5DzqcXN8oNeN2w9cmiO6HQlLw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/n5fg_jgehfusyk3Dss5Zto0dgxGujeUM0zZ0EZy9JKs5QnYPpiCxqePfcJmwvWDXxDbGgNKLzQAcmzpFIUJkgotmyLBOJkK2IaXb8daGYyaNkQiMiOIgsMXWQ2SolTVh9sMuV4m-Cx9-HSGM-os7iydK4dQrtxKVfbOOLrXqr19VV1FhcPIsQsrQ47uPcUtCdS8bXh0F66_RjZPyd-jRRKJC8gNyT0RvAdahf2GdoIwq0W4TyHlhyuOdPgc25reWYs-wSgzj7lJD3YxAOwk_4i3lH_Dh56dcLf3pZIKD6cw7Jc4TC_iXwd4_zdLLvcD79UKw4ZRRP7QR1lIBmSGXlpSrkpmTYLykzLmohV0ruV1nlfY1M7mt4ngskQu5JUuzHVE2iRjc-6Wqo_rsyYH7ixQJFDjAj0fH_xWWaBIC-InnDWmgieKd9V0c2UDqAR3hFdTmtYUkjabYh_-MyCzkUzWVfvYv68K0XlJUiJmwLP7rw_SfIJ7L6142tHuHEpoSPWv8MmzWKum0D8qB-n4P2DtjZJLYUAYAYYL5u6lWTKa1SkdCRhjNbVAbl82rjvcklarC6nGH9P-98ao9bA7BmIY_Swuc5S1MDiWpJXnS6lDdJmPNO_WfMs110S16D_LnQWfIWtI-iycW_j-YHlQ2UXSSfHK9Salm4OB0VnW_GA6_e7umCHG6FHwkk3dLNkvpv_Wq7ZMeMKAzcTxoZQ=w307-h475-no" width="220" height="336"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18047809-shadow-hand" target="_blank">SHADOW HAND</a><br></font><font size="5">by Anne Elisabeth Stengl</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Can we just talk about how <em>shameful</em> it is that I’ve yet to read all the <em>Tales of Goldstone Wood </em>books yet, being as how I’ve been reading them since their creation??? Why is it taking me actual YEARS to get through what is one of my most favorite series? I DON’T KNOW. I think I’m subconsciously savoring them. They’ve been such a big part of my life and I don’t want them to ennndddd! D:</p>
<p align="justify"><br>ANYWAYS.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Shadow Hand. Wow. It reminded me why I love these books so very much.</strong> Mrs. Stengl’s writing is breathtaking. Like…I have no words. And THIS BOOK. It was, without a doubt, the most complex, convoluted of all the stories so far <font size="3">(which is saying something)</font> and I LOVED IT. <strong>The story was rich and full and had sooo many things going on but then it all came together in the end and just I don’t know how she does it.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This one follows Daylily and Foxbrush, whom we met in <em>Veiled Rose </em><font size="3">(still my favorite of the series!)</font><font size="4">, and whom were always, erm, somewhat unsavory characters. I was <em>very</em> curious how having characters who before had been portrayed as antagonists of a sort would work as protagonists. WELL. I should have had more faith in Mrs. Stengl. No spoilers here but…it was brilliance. Every word. <strong>Her stories are like devouring your favorite dessert. Rich and delicious and filling. I’m so in love with this series. <3</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q5e_aDo01ly1CZJlySTJzGmTd-VmY1iSNjSxhokmv5ssDuAGd2enJPd1kWx7szAK0GH0A1buLL09dNZqCDExI4qaSufk6pJOtCslpcYEpOsPG-gt-3xy5oTcE_YXEZE6nRDHGt-Bo-dreS86c8xlq8I0-sOuQJ5tblfMnx3Z789A7F3jNEYNSeBhtGK31ZY67wT7aw1N8obHxBnwWcLSCfn_sN_JNnLr_RkIUxQO-8Oe-_rIq9zdwfkaQ0y0W45Cee08SRTv4VvH92qL10t3v5SbDW_btS5UZb909a_IEvDVn2OrMJ_bk0O0WDC7ER4IlWsUMgGnmhRQZGs_eiJ7SLhAnu0cpcI5LiijbM-F92fPmw9nq3c2h3p6gv5C4cAmkhiZ3t8iKlVpilP7UyH7zxW4T0b_i0U38yllPuLmXJyFhZkRP7LEO7iWgVDpHNPFwJJ0l9L4VmmdSqSQYC-KpGcVraTf5wVCUMYgB7o0aq3GyK3hVEiUKht9JuMcWulHAqGozX4Ref-n1oNyg48dvHXEsUt7e4GUDowknT1ppgGogQSD28GEd2hlMV3xVLu5vVr3M5HhrRIpEC8QQpFyHt0tK55xex-z2xD5bJOBuFbdSF3Pyh98UTmH8epIbJYp6T26VknM6zavo1Z5b0sPDNrog6f9GcV2cdNLQrpzecY8r6YKvC512aJjo5DzqcXN8oNeN2w9cmiO6HQlLw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RUjmM10v2wIVba1558CaOuegAF59M87hhwKxJUgJmxL_2T_kWDJYCC8ufQRLtyB9l9kdiGrmP42LVwY8nIB5ukLybgGD9RF7XSIba8WtAWLlGtZOWNWYrqMOW9TZ_gtaqtXHAgzTffk493U1wZFoCgdXT1nwsSUYmu2K3wMc7InCq92Nl9q5QCFc2sY3eq7Y2XOP1BnW0GSxSRs1BX1n3oJVQtM_ph3dwHrm1jYAkYuAD3A4DHGSvRouXHmtEPNvnpXUZkCiw0LnYk_j1tvluDRTij5ZwHGoosURHfMFJXktyxS3gqIaLPUEqdYSsuhvfA0M98FLzSD98QWT04AeiPJ8g7AFtN2iWCiAbwECcZm7midGcrk4hg1ZhqubOI2Mu_TdPWhupEjdAIspj3WetI4MZ1B04FPK9ftGl1l0IqM0fzfFbj1lAjTsZq75mBia4dFNYC7JslR--WFYub3r-o7OHJimsFhPoKS4T9E50Xj2jvIwJx_f2dOBhzUV7R4kbEMs1QP0dJUw9Ec8ETBhlWCZYmmPbpYIkdOAqRATRdIUgbgl0PSXnikqAKiJnXOGEdUmIgRXqlCn0xU64Gx2tNIOGw48eBLM8DijdzR-SM854XnXnITDCORbW7p2_r3Ralt3rfGq7fkjIAdSF0ei6bnWdHQcY-rMOm-3cXoPD4m8o6tileUbFJLBCj8BQZAh6EBpbeepX5mgoUTQDg=w312-h475-no" width="220" height="332"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36576048-fawkes" target="_blank">FAWKES</a><br></font><font size="5">by Nadine Brandes</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>You may have heard of this one. Being as how it’s pretty much all anyone was talking about all last year. AND WITH GOOD REASON.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This is a historical fantasy </strong><font size="3">(<em>such</em> a cool genre!)</font><strong> about The Gunpowder Plot. Not only does it have real life historical events in it, but it tosses in FANTASY THINGS</strong>. Yessss to alternate history pleaseandthankyou.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Our teenage protagonist, Thomas Fawkes (son of <em>the</em> Guy Fawkes), is determined to learn color magic and be accepted by his father. WELL. When his father pulls him into a plot to kill the king, things get…messy.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>The entire world revolves around “color” magic, which is when a person can basically use telekinesis to move any object of the color of mask he/she owns. So, like, if you have red color magic, and wear a mask, you can move any object the color red. SO UNIQUE RIGHT? It’s a bit more complicated than that, but I don’t want to give too much away. There’s also a plague going around which turns a person to STONE. So, ya know, fun stuff.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>What really captured me with this novel was how well-though-out and poignant it was written. You <em>really</em> felt like you were in foggy London, and knew the characters.</strong> Thomas was a precious cinnamon roll and <em>such</em> a teenager. The heroine, Emma, managed to be strong but feminine at the same time <font size="3">(totally breaking the emotionless “strong female character” stereotypes)</font>. And each side character had their own personalities and agendas. I was so swept away with this world.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Then the PLOT. So many twists. So. Many. Twists.</strong> GAH. I loved it! Oh, and feels. Feels eeeeverywhere. Gotta love a book that stomps your heart and kicks it in the ocean. FUN STUFF!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>My one qualm was the allegorical part felt a bit…weird. It portrayed a sort of God-figure, but in a very…unexpected way. I wasn’t sure I liked it. But, at the same time, the story was full of beautiful messages and made me THINK, which I always love.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Overall, I thought it was amazing and well deserved of the hype.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q5e_aDo01ly1CZJlySTJzGmTd-VmY1iSNjSxhokmv5ssDuAGd2enJPd1kWx7szAK0GH0A1buLL09dNZqCDExI4qaSufk6pJOtCslpcYEpOsPG-gt-3xy5oTcE_YXEZE6nRDHGt-Bo-dreS86c8xlq8I0-sOuQJ5tblfMnx3Z789A7F3jNEYNSeBhtGK31ZY67wT7aw1N8obHxBnwWcLSCfn_sN_JNnLr_RkIUxQO-8Oe-_rIq9zdwfkaQ0y0W45Cee08SRTv4VvH92qL10t3v5SbDW_btS5UZb909a_IEvDVn2OrMJ_bk0O0WDC7ER4IlWsUMgGnmhRQZGs_eiJ7SLhAnu0cpcI5LiijbM-F92fPmw9nq3c2h3p6gv5C4cAmkhiZ3t8iKlVpilP7UyH7zxW4T0b_i0U38yllPuLmXJyFhZkRP7LEO7iWgVDpHNPFwJJ0l9L4VmmdSqSQYC-KpGcVraTf5wVCUMYgB7o0aq3GyK3hVEiUKht9JuMcWulHAqGozX4Ref-n1oNyg48dvHXEsUt7e4GUDowknT1ppgGogQSD28GEd2hlMV3xVLu5vVr3M5HhrRIpEC8QQpFyHt0tK55xex-z2xD5bJOBuFbdSF3Pyh98UTmH8epIbJYp6T26VknM6zavo1Z5b0sPDNrog6f9GcV2cdNLQrpzecY8r6YKvC512aJjo5DzqcXN8oNeN2w9cmiO6HQlLw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-l7Fl9AuTs-iuxnlye6CktHklxd2odjUDD5VqDck8-mrQDzeu2qBnmWafHoYiXXODJd4xZMzcUI1Y46X_MPSQ4a0-xhE1aNpAKGZ0mytX4lRVSpcdOXvRXteIHqczlZDhS69VR_-PqKVvyQ1JytfBgGhTZ-ubPAUEQcgqIIsNbMMgu2M-vG_epMmsZebtSVfHxUjPk3LU01ZxN6vNr7InX9SbZmIKNkQZJf9KsGCvYC6Gh8kymoDANEhz63jRSYsmBt7uI4qWLfGi-fvQsHsbK1fbPy4NdKI4D7CA2_s2K4RJMXEsW2u6MN1-jYq1f8rv9Brayc9SfbKVvyOYguo8ZsBs6iGRp-TQNIYnaS9tmTdYkDP0Kq8rDfRDKRkShYdyz4QAUhhHBZmxqgnCGGjrKLaoLGkJ3QZXfBfwaQGSH6-I5hsAYby5RY8K8HgQ-YHzqRj8Ab0QHNL-eachNFkiRUuyUy945gHgk8GFpFTQl0zLbnf5XVqCUOvhb8uYbwmyDqKT0HJ61mPzYxdzon4CWXSr-tEkSvnBdmY0gluusJIoL0q1cPOGgHVJlAAvycYmDqIuMGlWpb1LC_PFwZwg7LIiFB3oWhG7MfX_X7cpNzsghylsqpeuDdk-TYhcp6rR6X7SnAzPzzWdCx6coUV9JxB6j34ICwZZjiAt9GZVfcHA6GeLQdZhtbzO9is43li0aQRcppF44ipnV8I-w=w259-h400-no" width="220" height="335"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40845732-the-hound-of-duville" target="_blank">THE HOUND OF DUVILLE</a><br></font><font size="5">by Kyle Robert Shultz</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>BE STILL MY <em>BEAUMONT AND BEASLEY</em> LOVING HEART.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I won’t say too much about this one, because I already did a <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/08/mini-book-reviews-janus-elixir-and.html" target="_blank">whole review for it</a> just a few months ago. BUT. Definitely, definitely one of my favorite 2018 reads.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This is a novella following the <em>Beaumont and Beasley</em> series </strong><font size="3">(MY FAAAVE!!!)</font>. It definitely needs to be read <em>after</em> the first main 3 <em>Beaumont and Beasley</em> books, but if you <em>have</em> read them you MUST get this one in your life! It harked back to the first book, following Nick and Crispin, as they try to discover a hilarious curse sweeping through Talesend. <strong>The brotherly banter </strong><font size="2">(NICK AND CRISPIN MY BOYS <3)</font><strong>, the humor, the side-splitting references to a couple of well-known movies, the whole hilarious curse. It was perfection!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Until the end which destroyed my heart and soul but YA KNOW. I apparently enjoy books ripping out my feels SO.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>BUT YES. I adored this little story so so so much, and just talking about it is making me want to reread it!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q5e_aDo01ly1CZJlySTJzGmTd-VmY1iSNjSxhokmv5ssDuAGd2enJPd1kWx7szAK0GH0A1buLL09dNZqCDExI4qaSufk6pJOtCslpcYEpOsPG-gt-3xy5oTcE_YXEZE6nRDHGt-Bo-dreS86c8xlq8I0-sOuQJ5tblfMnx3Z789A7F3jNEYNSeBhtGK31ZY67wT7aw1N8obHxBnwWcLSCfn_sN_JNnLr_RkIUxQO-8Oe-_rIq9zdwfkaQ0y0W45Cee08SRTv4VvH92qL10t3v5SbDW_btS5UZb909a_IEvDVn2OrMJ_bk0O0WDC7ER4IlWsUMgGnmhRQZGs_eiJ7SLhAnu0cpcI5LiijbM-F92fPmw9nq3c2h3p6gv5C4cAmkhiZ3t8iKlVpilP7UyH7zxW4T0b_i0U38yllPuLmXJyFhZkRP7LEO7iWgVDpHNPFwJJ0l9L4VmmdSqSQYC-KpGcVraTf5wVCUMYgB7o0aq3GyK3hVEiUKht9JuMcWulHAqGozX4Ref-n1oNyg48dvHXEsUt7e4GUDowknT1ppgGogQSD28GEd2hlMV3xVLu5vVr3M5HhrRIpEC8QQpFyHt0tK55xex-z2xD5bJOBuFbdSF3Pyh98UTmH8epIbJYp6T26VknM6zavo1Z5b0sPDNrog6f9GcV2cdNLQrpzecY8r6YKvC512aJjo5DzqcXN8oNeN2w9cmiO6HQlLw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qdbLHDwDbIqyAUecuzp7FDoXDAQi0V2SfIN8p2hL9BwSUHPWHZfBmQMnk2XEr7nAEnqtWxyJSCl_VnbSiLhsGf_1_CUbWKpitPCrk-YrP_Wg88ljTbzafs3VhrYsEdq4TTs-7segbbvRAKqLDcrh5TY4MSOUil3Zdv9YMip0Ty1p0l_pHC5Da7I-jgStPbTGokiGHPkjTYSSuJy1-6VKvvSzefPlDbHspkFkFmAPrN1ceIeAIZ8EN76JoV3kVE6ZKj3h_ndwxJrn4wNh7TJ_p0kkXzxlXxXK6GKm2H-55Rm7JizwoIau-BA9hOoCtQXA4wLV2jAcI4hPUZgMkoG7h8RB-SsTOwjBCTl9mkLtVXYOARyEZEM2VN5aMBE45LvsZN-7uJ8FjeRSvkeMRc1j7akEzbzmeKmj-YVCXSLKwt8Bx_gdZtqGteqN4xfJ2mUd6lvEOvSd5Fyp3JjuBxGJmCVql9v2j0Y9TEzf4BkWR5l-da1ZyoqN8KcKrSr_p1WigC8m3y1XaK7G6dg2EklditYFdQRswUODq7qH7DxQAFJdTYiYMWpezbxRKTINbDfH-N8kZycto4NilwPXssyD2vHlp0shWjMJ_HPHoUKn06DJ6zBYsxCTxwOGfpK0H_rFvYPNrYOwVY25Z2djQiWeIO13rqgYnMpXd1ckMAb-YXOgwTxAz46tC7xALDuVvT-7B6FUmpdfMQOPMDhezw=w290-h475-no" width="220" height="356"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/5.Harry_Potter_and_the_Prisoner_of_Azkaban" target="_blank">HARRY POTTER AND<br>THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN</a></font><font size="6"><br></font><font size="5">by J.K. Rowling</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I mentioned recently that I read the <em>Harry Potter</em> series for the first time in 2018 annnnnd I fear I’m becoming one of those people who now makes an HP reference like every other sentence. I’M SORRY. The hype is real!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Though I loved every. single. book. <em>The Prisoner of Azkaban </em>was my faaave!</strong> <font size="3">(With <em>Goblet of Fire</em> coming at a <em>very </em>close second.)</font> Things really start to pickup, the characters are growing but still young and foolish and adorable, Lupin is introduced <font size="3">(LOVE HIM!)</font>, Sirius, too, enters the picture, and then THE ENDING. <strong>The whole plot twist and craziness that erupts in those last few chapters was eeeeverything.</strong> It was so twisty and epic and GAH. YESSSHHH.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But also can I cheat and just put the whole <em>Harry Potter</em> series here? Because it was definitely my favorite read of all of 2018. I had such a wonderful time entering the Wizarding World! And now that I’m here…I’m never leaving! Bwahahaha.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5VD-6I244zk-uRmA7L6pbRzgd4f-SvAOfW2z0wl3XnvH-dqwWv9mB7mlt-wxilSuyLWUWb-XvyfsVb3lbvneutiRM39of-1s67uYQENUMge1eRlzyZhu-qdzYPyQm2zWHMqcmNoxKC8kcgFN1MAULVRW7JAqNCMiWHDb9uLsg52WQW-yhBq12avP2UJI_OJcoDa_RV0C9fetXQtEN5TRx5xtaZyKKS0KeSx36AU9eD6vNpiW2iRYAQdad63ar9UVhgkwvzvIasRoKD0O_5mZ4iNdTp-cYGvqowiJRFaieUYs7o41ftOjCmhkeEQ5SIiPdTlYDBejS3BYqX2J8ZagwmAtFqmDd1iup6H2byDhLV1AOe_mfkxx-diwGDnhbHWaI1eCBFBhrm7e3DpXTV2DKOt90thUeb3janqzGmmEr0nu-F_8-dcDEhry37d_lL9pVakpyoruflY9wRQVfPGwd65_fhwJiFp1gCpDBA0pK8KkzWIfV6jJfkMAezXhT03Zq4i5GYYitKl25cwJ8noqZ11t0QD7PH-fkyR4AKdxhJ2xdaG47f_tDO4owUJ-94CIN5M3--eDwIljOE0vnby60h0hiS0cHC90063JJQdERhMyaepyksSltmSxuj7K9HvkXizWZ_SltHb1m93a2XGTM_azmgvbQS2rrtkmZ0jJUluq2sSMLVXbbJnlHXkYaU8R4ReITFJSndMdOvy1Og=w500-h230-no" width="350" height="164"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xFAmF8e7sETDVi5N65gPFjwlOM2mTLwUWkjTyoP2l4Hs_N3UI-ZFTvTmGoZfEzircEaUrWZ9GPYqhT5AULU982OQgeKeFKOqqAMTxdXBleYOZNPaaxXOj12VV9_hqeqthu8kpuJdXGx2kfHbvFzEfBx-nJFB6-u3MUms5mnu93EuG0mW_xUrwKHxQ9IWeUdxDR5WWS97wcyQw3IkHGx5J3js7BBs8WRFYToSV4BPAV430V_kZErISzx9LeHlhf0qn109VH5Mxdx5xY9oyvIa5gzILmJWd-74p-m5Rc9TvOQXWCfdgrp5joYKJZ6xRo4G-8G8fSBQ3eY_MstFS-Vh79N8ZMRzrsQQgcwUAJHBn28zcuPw7thrFnMaJGgCdR5F7yjWtOPq_92iVLimdUYc4Gh8vMVfxBr2c7M_ayGtS3c_wg3c8h2dPXGls198JLkd2gT8VD5D2Ez4AZUvM8nILFc4JLsUuMx3twzqsvd32RHiPApkvQYJ0U5E4FD62RbTLq5jeUB5Ur9EitBI95ysvLRE8_K_Z3-PXpwex1WuY6YbWFqcAXjCfn-gl4j5A3-Kxx3YGGJ10jzHNMbDHI9fTqEE2LZZFmY7uedSZLnZ3QusYNrGTg-d4AsAwKtSn0vq3Dx9k74ypso8gry_H1EuprigiQ1VYjS7G5c0iUeNiBariXclEBOoan-6AYnRRrGLtl9ADMmUej90a0olTg=w1920-h395-no" width="450" height="94"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>And there we have my top-ish reads of 2018! But, seriously, I loved practically every book I read. You can see all my 2018-reads on my GoodReads shelf <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/18596498-christine-smith?shelf=2018-reads" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Because we bookdragons are inherently nosy. *grins*</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xDarXORURdILnprzkhKVnm4btChPUGly3vuxNg1spBJDJj5qkXVd8trPB_IdnEpHseIHkQ5B8BhxqEE-ebvOB0mNoTD6MGiYhgpJDLx4xTy8oiL0oAiKgNlNoPTmzl0eJYFg-7H-lk7O6T1DKf2GQMlP5GvHXYfQUlLeryV240BCMUHFSR2l9wduakTkiVH46cgHaYm7jSgKnC6gamoh3DNnBdm4akmAbiBChzPd1V6dbzFsPvbsO7l81DBof7CoQvDF7L7FzZrbI3iwtZiKvxFeDJkFFNvc4PYZI0_5sEpl7M5IdPiG3WjB55JqcWepVd9dJ-eBPjhakwmTFcr38LnH-McbDEvnmyPqTBdLTvSQ0QqAQYBSatlVJ1IlayiOLY0ig10zK5Ei19s_jVdlFN_jUW5aotW9mUyesFCiLO17q52Eb1eaO-zpUlUs0XaeKBz9CQbgsG0x5pzYYw2m59VDTAU-fXZ-cjdfz6qgBZZbxq3bmI3evOuG-hZ6WFQBfdBi5NKq4kLvNtGvfiyapLYdbbsi4yKgdbkLvFDrnxORl9PtzLlK1mof0hhk7OPRO7zsLaEUtntw0Uz79Q5OS0UZ8KNEv18SBpNKQ0YyGFPJtmkKcknoKvr3mNoQLz5wiXEgykhqDyE570F1MuAmVoT0sj9kj2BWrjobroBAaT0v292zHyTD03y5f_J7fwAlEdAkTxsxajyXfJEYaA=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">TOP 5 MOVIES OF 2018</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xDarXORURdILnprzkhKVnm4btChPUGly3vuxNg1spBJDJj5qkXVd8trPB_IdnEpHseIHkQ5B8BhxqEE-ebvOB0mNoTD6MGiYhgpJDLx4xTy8oiL0oAiKgNlNoPTmzl0eJYFg-7H-lk7O6T1DKf2GQMlP5GvHXYfQUlLeryV240BCMUHFSR2l9wduakTkiVH46cgHaYm7jSgKnC6gamoh3DNnBdm4akmAbiBChzPd1V6dbzFsPvbsO7l81DBof7CoQvDF7L7FzZrbI3iwtZiKvxFeDJkFFNvc4PYZI0_5sEpl7M5IdPiG3WjB55JqcWepVd9dJ-eBPjhakwmTFcr38LnH-McbDEvnmyPqTBdLTvSQ0QqAQYBSatlVJ1IlayiOLY0ig10zK5Ei19s_jVdlFN_jUW5aotW9mUyesFCiLO17q52Eb1eaO-zpUlUs0XaeKBz9CQbgsG0x5pzYYw2m59VDTAU-fXZ-cjdfz6qgBZZbxq3bmI3evOuG-hZ6WFQBfdBi5NKq4kLvNtGvfiyapLYdbbsi4yKgdbkLvFDrnxORl9PtzLlK1mof0hhk7OPRO7zsLaEUtntw0Uz79Q5OS0UZ8KNEv18SBpNKQ0YyGFPJtmkKcknoKvr3mNoQLz5wiXEgykhqDyE570F1MuAmVoT0sj9kj2BWrjobroBAaT0v292zHyTD03y5f_J7fwAlEdAkTxsxajyXfJEYaA=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’m only going to be listing movies that were new to <em>me, </em>and not rewatches because then we’d be here alllll day. Heh. <font size="3">(I just really like movies!)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Once again, in order of when I watched them <font size="2">(I think)</font>…</p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q5e_aDo01ly1CZJlySTJzGmTd-VmY1iSNjSxhokmv5ssDuAGd2enJPd1kWx7szAK0GH0A1buLL09dNZqCDExI4qaSufk6pJOtCslpcYEpOsPG-gt-3xy5oTcE_YXEZE6nRDHGt-Bo-dreS86c8xlq8I0-sOuQJ5tblfMnx3Z789A7F3jNEYNSeBhtGK31ZY67wT7aw1N8obHxBnwWcLSCfn_sN_JNnLr_RkIUxQO-8Oe-_rIq9zdwfkaQ0y0W45Cee08SRTv4VvH92qL10t3v5SbDW_btS5UZb909a_IEvDVn2OrMJ_bk0O0WDC7ER4IlWsUMgGnmhRQZGs_eiJ7SLhAnu0cpcI5LiijbM-F92fPmw9nq3c2h3p6gv5C4cAmkhiZ3t8iKlVpilP7UyH7zxW4T0b_i0U38yllPuLmXJyFhZkRP7LEO7iWgVDpHNPFwJJ0l9L4VmmdSqSQYC-KpGcVraTf5wVCUMYgB7o0aq3GyK3hVEiUKht9JuMcWulHAqGozX4Ref-n1oNyg48dvHXEsUt7e4GUDowknT1ppgGogQSD28GEd2hlMV3xVLu5vVr3M5HhrRIpEC8QQpFyHt0tK55xex-z2xD5bJOBuFbdSF3Pyh98UTmH8epIbJYp6T26VknM6zavo1Z5b0sPDNrog6f9GcV2cdNLQrpzecY8r6YKvC512aJjo5DzqcXN8oNeN2w9cmiO6HQlLw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/iKRdR7wR2gQNHfVFdUu8hYgMf9chMyA-STLJMMAoxUSuNHN4PP-X622aKaIAB4LXf2CVvjoq6BWIBWsCXdNk57n8TAZIvCHkJu5jAteVU8i4oMXBi79IgsSPsZ4TDeu0SG6bLDzef5z5s5Ovj68biHsRWiyRiJQ66Hwoxf-XgJH42Vdlx9epBE0_HS9aU3gOO6N2qlkKgiSxECh5BxMezS3vVXc3uftK07BevkWkItNonyjyHoWPtWrLvQBkvJeCzpjfgK3Uv2z1cIvakLdO12aNy2koUqRJEAZXpLcA3iJ8CVeTUn9y5r3jsfpLlmiIWmLalTQeG4CvY_jxCYNswbJW7CeYr087vXUR7ujbuAx9AtQLq3tncWEX81NBxO7uXQWbRF10faplOXNJ1oofSxOyaUP8T7TnmYYmPzxY7nq8uZwpdbo60_JH6Lv9eXmk_yiMqDoq6THVKoMKgAytIH3IzfyTjj3KUkzbzCHd3UvS1XoZ2VjC7eEwAMsT8UtPwWH_j088ZZ7qLbPOdL2Ah7wMBK-LnpOhbgot7XivPICbW1TqObIuDUvnKN36FIuzZFR5PpF_Hr3XbyA_s9i8oGUYX60JH9QMHKZUxdhpifd9bZYlO-3gJam_tJHBU1-3ltQCd45kDjL4gjhQeMId99Wh4jKhzzeV9dGM6Upem0phKZG-pUVxb6u74tVSNso5uFejmSIJQgiIW-ROtA=w1200-h524-no" width="500" height="221"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">THE GREATEST SHOWMAN</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>So yes, I saw this for the first time in April and AAAHHHHHH!!!!! What brilliance did my eyes just behold?</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Confession: I’m not a big musical person. I KNOW. You may disown me, no hard feelings. <font size="2">(Okay, maybe a few.)</font> Musicals just…aren’t my thing. So when I saw the huge hype for this movie I was just like, “Meh. I don’t think I’m interested.”</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6f1buyxtqTvT_OkW57zqAKyMa02ptfN19AfphSnablkc77mkK_in8GA4Yqp7RH_jxqhUqLiEfiPQjnbXN-46452yzTMH2BT9Y2WFSOKOCxHV6pC5ZRWlUHGNJbZ0Bn4r-QjJjRfiudD3mTC-ddCeTSSuSxOlvOrAp8l3TWgW3PEKwV8uhMzrUCmEvm9wZ_sEU0irVKTp-g7PSnClqHUK3oSqAgMeP51aMDQDGlp6I--VDZzBlLMdzs6nAUsQNWqvWG2cquxyh9nqJmVeWfDBXSrtEH2Rlr0mvoMoHW558QpgpULLDMyg6BfsQFpW2_iOKe_kskHoN8SSMkKbWuNOGnozVkqHpJMo-T-Zq3PtMAgp4fSJ-XkwFjzTtA3nBx1SX60c_kzh-_SGo9xheYwBrgEKOlD0GjH_VHEkdf8fXLPRYApIlrz4K3aPCoY8uCcX_Z8m-E9tO_lC26DIPe-YCgDZxRlkj6rkF4Gv72v2e9cGkRQvwxFE6d6nkBEqC_S5UyXlFQwKD0Jk8JMPXrnAVFd0dbTvVKZ-RWfDwoW98Jhptul_3Bmu8-uxTx5F4DFGgaFYL85jPSHQDVT_NzDSeCCUbdZ0UhpyFUoX6tfE3q25XQeX3_V4VleL3YGPwZl0rZ2hn8txdmlzYCkZ0CAAfjL6G_-SawqhRqwxu4Gwjz0pmpmMP0attzKIumI3QnD2KL14PhV-w6WrW12zow=w268-h150-no" width="300" height="173"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Let’s just say my friends kidnapped me and forced me to watch it, insisting I’m going to enjoy it <font size="2">(as good friends do)</font>. And…I had to eat my words. All of them. <strong>The opening got my heart thrumming, I think I didn’t blink for the entirety of the movie, it took my breath away, and when they asked me which was my favorite song when it was over I was like, “ALL OF THEM!”</strong> Yep. I enjoyed a musical. More than that, I LOVED a musical.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But wow, this movie. <strong>It truly captured that sense of wonder that I haven’t seen in cinema for a long, long time. The story was beautiful, the characters were alive, the chorography was astounding, and the songs are something I now keep on repeat on a constant basis.</strong> It’s honest to goodness one of my top favorite movies now.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>So yeah, words were eaten.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q5e_aDo01ly1CZJlySTJzGmTd-VmY1iSNjSxhokmv5ssDuAGd2enJPd1kWx7szAK0GH0A1buLL09dNZqCDExI4qaSufk6pJOtCslpcYEpOsPG-gt-3xy5oTcE_YXEZE6nRDHGt-Bo-dreS86c8xlq8I0-sOuQJ5tblfMnx3Z789A7F3jNEYNSeBhtGK31ZY67wT7aw1N8obHxBnwWcLSCfn_sN_JNnLr_RkIUxQO-8Oe-_rIq9zdwfkaQ0y0W45Cee08SRTv4VvH92qL10t3v5SbDW_btS5UZb909a_IEvDVn2OrMJ_bk0O0WDC7ER4IlWsUMgGnmhRQZGs_eiJ7SLhAnu0cpcI5LiijbM-F92fPmw9nq3c2h3p6gv5C4cAmkhiZ3t8iKlVpilP7UyH7zxW4T0b_i0U38yllPuLmXJyFhZkRP7LEO7iWgVDpHNPFwJJ0l9L4VmmdSqSQYC-KpGcVraTf5wVCUMYgB7o0aq3GyK3hVEiUKht9JuMcWulHAqGozX4Ref-n1oNyg48dvHXEsUt7e4GUDowknT1ppgGogQSD28GEd2hlMV3xVLu5vVr3M5HhrRIpEC8QQpFyHt0tK55xex-z2xD5bJOBuFbdSF3Pyh98UTmH8epIbJYp6T26VknM6zavo1Z5b0sPDNrog6f9GcV2cdNLQrpzecY8r6YKvC512aJjo5DzqcXN8oNeN2w9cmiO6HQlLw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/OjJB9AlH9L00MXOP6l727M00Wh9cgc2btbbtz5UEHzR6guQTlz1ctX6FHAsXU4-tG7l-_YNuiriOaTkAietu8tHRevjy_695tjWAl4w8DMm2ldbRo-gjX2omRiBPMX1V868dEmDaKCBu162ZUW2Ng8Zqe_1s5HbAmmCFTvZzcUaRB_I4Z-yDQjHGBXRKL73Sa9UY3sFoPCAmxtq0BhaQ3plIzQVikKwqR-7_UpDCOdnVHZRtLH8_3yvdxhL1-yCddo7CoxLLCq7PbzmPIS5OQ9n1qShXoKloPGMAF4exRgyD0r0lQblT8HTRtDLyEig2vQ3mqG_-us3vYzqKl88r0eqWLMru2Pp58K7hopdqydsTPKlP6RGfkPmOuNfMh8J4aHtYWZPK-0kx7YLS5Bm7J7jJfGeOhb65lJe8rdjiSYdWH_yN3A3_MYKg-YwUb2gWxUJYbCBvXrw5NxrPIUKtVFVj108v_WQrtC3TmNo-vvRXbW9kCypAS1QdW_sCrEkK1hG4aFVR-n3jF4CkOk-zms8rcuE74jhjlGMYiPMGv2BAEoqpMCPGAn_1MJWaYGN4qDejFdPRqGzqRJE-MwL48lGbsliQyRGm2O0Y9rD6x5DO91AOs5jNuMC9htlw-Mj4kioi9bJkaOlrrxNCOoGboVGNRsINjEwtQAzyGGwLZnck6-rtkWWIT2QFKZ4PuCov_slk79q3mg-xUNFv_w=w1628-h915-no" width="500" height="282"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">INFINITY WAR</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Was this my favorite or least favorite movie of the year? I DON’T KNOW. I do know it ripped out every feel I’ve ever had and turned it to ash so THANKS, MARVEL.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But, at the same time, getting to see all the heroes we’ve been following for TEN YEARS </strong><font size="3">(yeah, I’ve been a Marvel fan since the first <em>Iron Man</em> movie <font size="2">#geek</font>)</font><strong> come together in one movie was a TREAT.</strong> I wasn’t sure how they’d handle having so many main characters, but they did it brilliantly. <font size="2">(Though the lack of Bucky scenes was an atrocity! *cough, cough*)</font> I also felt like they did well bringing together all the different styles of the movies. When the Guardians were on camera, it felt like a <em>Guardians of the Galaxy</em> movie. During Steve’s scenes, it felt like a <em>Captain American</em> movie. Tony definitely brought his <em>Iron Man</em> style with him. Etc., etc. It was great!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>It wasn’t a perfect movie. I have complaints. But overall I LOVED it. …Or hated it. I DON’T KNOW. UGH. FEELS.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Hr0z36omUDV1raOIE8OWM3tOQ4JiRWeO1J5JdLzA3On1Pr462AKNwdkIC16kOETfTAnwOZC6bmi1K_2kW23I2ZtswK9a20mrSXwgfmtHOQ3oGB5eEDVZOySsbqPgcq27WM2NUMNev-eucaZbD1wxpA3iw2ys5kSuTBrot9TLENsn6iN3D4UFDjetS8mwdRZYY29fPXjOluzYrE-aUkdmSPJ5ewsGPd8jXFqLNfIVms8JmmpAJgTz4CW4b1llHjLhpuQULl2UA0ntKVbSRCvAs7zEkh_LkPtshiztncdzKrxm-LpWNHAZW4k7UBkaTDAQZGZqwSo47HSp6apinuegv6XPVVSEe3ZZhHSTCh4YIw7PTNcWxmmlMadQpKM0C_cu7SI6P-jandpiNX_SA_Q71onwggj3NZ075wyT3CTYptH83R91FwXMj1YsTwQning835fS-3LCL9gtqJSING4ugkCumPQKzVI19b1fnRVvlE7B3SSh51ILqoarNbPW0XE10qccV3Rj6ikjRkVC3hCldKdT8CDjyr2-yKo4rfPUHylZOCeW8Iytrs54e7hh0n1DO3KjeSFTbix33LvuU9Xoh5iGEck_XumN4nlSpk33A3Oqh8zrPTjFYGGK32_-QkGLa9-bC3PiGHb4XuID_0onm0GSvuRFPYUO5xiu2fGdGGPpi_-dlRiK__TCAbAj_Cd4Mf9BN1uD8b98e7CiRA=w500-h249-no" width="300" height="152"></strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q5e_aDo01ly1CZJlySTJzGmTd-VmY1iSNjSxhokmv5ssDuAGd2enJPd1kWx7szAK0GH0A1buLL09dNZqCDExI4qaSufk6pJOtCslpcYEpOsPG-gt-3xy5oTcE_YXEZE6nRDHGt-Bo-dreS86c8xlq8I0-sOuQJ5tblfMnx3Z789A7F3jNEYNSeBhtGK31ZY67wT7aw1N8obHxBnwWcLSCfn_sN_JNnLr_RkIUxQO-8Oe-_rIq9zdwfkaQ0y0W45Cee08SRTv4VvH92qL10t3v5SbDW_btS5UZb909a_IEvDVn2OrMJ_bk0O0WDC7ER4IlWsUMgGnmhRQZGs_eiJ7SLhAnu0cpcI5LiijbM-F92fPmw9nq3c2h3p6gv5C4cAmkhiZ3t8iKlVpilP7UyH7zxW4T0b_i0U38yllPuLmXJyFhZkRP7LEO7iWgVDpHNPFwJJ0l9L4VmmdSqSQYC-KpGcVraTf5wVCUMYgB7o0aq3GyK3hVEiUKht9JuMcWulHAqGozX4Ref-n1oNyg48dvHXEsUt7e4GUDowknT1ppgGogQSD28GEd2hlMV3xVLu5vVr3M5HhrRIpEC8QQpFyHt0tK55xex-z2xD5bJOBuFbdSF3Pyh98UTmH8epIbJYp6T26VknM6zavo1Z5b0sPDNrog6f9GcV2cdNLQrpzecY8r6YKvC512aJjo5DzqcXN8oNeN2w9cmiO6HQlLw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/o_TFrFwbbgjBmDVLAVj1ayEZrvhRm1Ft_MZVRQ5q2PpaYzt3BD1GEM3NXMZ2GoHVDRqsWqaGiJn5T09innvvuVEMBDyb5nKLh2lK6iEGTc-EmuRSV5QB7SDNHxn-uH4nx8ZxZ708vyqrBhiQftM93eRkU_7G2bHtzqDqik7R_TvhpYK09ARUqIkE5o1HDclm62TX6v4Ds8Kh3wJ55AvypMaC8PhKpkVH-EJhTBij11z5an9DHwhggoMfye5f4KOSy7aj-eWLzqNSBilPex475DeOmmGCrf3oIhCpMFEkhQsO_MLbIcOnkPibeHTwf7mtQnHGv_1X22dN7dTumVcaqywapaG3LwlRyL9OhKKz587uAhao9O8Zc49k_h7HGjtmKDME1Q8y7w41k-DLLovAw-hgs3vPcmcuSSPDuoQxcIctZAAvXZe_zGxgCbffYdIUxyAu3_4E4a9WdgQHqt36a1l4DojgS5TvtIqU6V1HCclC72rhtxkVf32BDTuzIHACFlt9RChee5tIKM2Js4d7shhjFiQ8xDopRkmvHd7y2BYYtucAa6llYWKt7_jpaoYIvAf_bEq9wzSkwZjIddnaAFORYhTDrV635hS925rp3RLMqBU_mAFJ77QKZOqdErj2JbPvfaVo6zcJf3EprSlLCS6K3KwWOBSExyoDxZwyIJnbOiuNH2CTYwcFrc_hk9Y4qHpGiTR5eK7a9BFagQ=w1071-h459-no" width="500" height="217"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">ANT-MAN AND THE WASP</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Look at that, another Marvel movie. Is anyone surprised???</p>
<p align="justify"><br>After <em>Infinity War</em> gobbled up my heart and spit it out, I was very much looking forward to a more lighthearted movie. <strong><em>Ant-man</em> was <em>such</em> a hilarious movie, and I couldn’t wait for this sequel. IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT. It held up perfectly to the first movie. If anything, it was even better!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>The humor was just as gold, the villain was fascinating, Scott was as loveable as ever. I absolutely loved it! Definitely refreshing after the heart-stomping cruelty of <em>Infinity War.</em></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strike><font size="3">Were just not going to talk about the post-credits scene.</font></strike></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q5e_aDo01ly1CZJlySTJzGmTd-VmY1iSNjSxhokmv5ssDuAGd2enJPd1kWx7szAK0GH0A1buLL09dNZqCDExI4qaSufk6pJOtCslpcYEpOsPG-gt-3xy5oTcE_YXEZE6nRDHGt-Bo-dreS86c8xlq8I0-sOuQJ5tblfMnx3Z789A7F3jNEYNSeBhtGK31ZY67wT7aw1N8obHxBnwWcLSCfn_sN_JNnLr_RkIUxQO-8Oe-_rIq9zdwfkaQ0y0W45Cee08SRTv4VvH92qL10t3v5SbDW_btS5UZb909a_IEvDVn2OrMJ_bk0O0WDC7ER4IlWsUMgGnmhRQZGs_eiJ7SLhAnu0cpcI5LiijbM-F92fPmw9nq3c2h3p6gv5C4cAmkhiZ3t8iKlVpilP7UyH7zxW4T0b_i0U38yllPuLmXJyFhZkRP7LEO7iWgVDpHNPFwJJ0l9L4VmmdSqSQYC-KpGcVraTf5wVCUMYgB7o0aq3GyK3hVEiUKht9JuMcWulHAqGozX4Ref-n1oNyg48dvHXEsUt7e4GUDowknT1ppgGogQSD28GEd2hlMV3xVLu5vVr3M5HhrRIpEC8QQpFyHt0tK55xex-z2xD5bJOBuFbdSF3Pyh98UTmH8epIbJYp6T26VknM6zavo1Z5b0sPDNrog6f9GcV2cdNLQrpzecY8r6YKvC512aJjo5DzqcXN8oNeN2w9cmiO6HQlLw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eu62MZw_-8hA8-AFQNYtUczwG85hDRUC_zbW-ZklT626uEje_LNXqwqHEGBR48qQkDBaKrQk0B1GRJJ-oDqjZ8KKWWX6VtY-pVyebsjAJgVaWhA_c1MO4LIGpvv-o6StH0sB1bWDuzOKZ9U-hdTjzB9vn9pt3vr4h7kCGtzMtGT5tVrap-wLgjxfAp0NFpApUOq1I8SvA8ORNI1FyRn1dK8BLDfAgG4Mh02RF3W9fFOQM-9i4N1CxpVx4fq01RZpFW-k-UjInfqm0--jH42E2w_fpfskBtbZiwR4U0dpOt2O31XHRHwa_DXMNevPwIjx5xFrDRm9-bndrDxbEEM9OysRAmb80Tw4KNI1T6QclsX_rxglGrHRz0ay-jGbwinLvgLrwPhQ6du5t-1CZllWilRxOp8NEMIITR4FIBzRjk_JGKalIXqEgVqMK-jWWEA6NdLKSb3DqwXQbbMP29CsX6-l4PdnvjcWHIX6RATiAUZ1j3tv8eZMNlmLf_ZawMlLU5kAaauccSpsrYvKGY1MhLgQ8c1RtFDTqY1ye1QX0biKfKuCXani40f4hNHEIyvYPK5SBQaVwzxtV7DZe7PE1F3k5PJOMv_1_t9TfGYkcrhaoaL0kusuDs-Xzg-cPi-71hX-vE00cahew4nzo76Ss9_r1sfiZfY38yIDj3MJIkvx_NhkgwUqbj8mQ5WAfNqaMIr-p9xNIvj3F_m8rw=w1920-h788-no" width="530" height="219"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">CHRISTOPHER ROBIN</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>OH, MY HEART.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Okay, so <em>Winnie-the-Pooh</em> is my EVERYTHING.</strong> The Hundred Acre Wood was my childhood home. I watched the Disney movie on repeat like…daily. I had stuffed animals of the characters. I even watched the Disney show of it. I still get thrills when I’m exposed to anything <em>Winnie-the-Pooh</em> related. It’s my comfort zone. My happy place. My home.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So when I heard that they were making a movie about an adult Christopher Robin my first reaction was…huh.</strong> <font size="3">(I’m such a deep thinker.)</font> I didn’t know if to be excited or worried. <strong>On the one hand, it was a very interesting concept and looked cute. But on the other hand, WHAT IF THEY RUINED MY BELOVED CLASSIC???</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Well. WELL. I should have had more faith in Disney. <strong>This movie was everything.</strong> I cried the second the opening credits came on. I wish I was joking but NOPE. The opening scene showing the map of my dear Hundred Acre Wood, and the sweet scene taken directly from the book of young Christopher Robin and Pooh had me bawling. And from there I was just a tearful mess.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Because they didn’t ruin my childhood home, they brought it to LIFE.</strong> I felt like I <em>was</em> Christopher Robin, now an adult, letting the world weigh on my shoulders, only to step back into my childhood home and relive all those happy memories.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>When I was little, I never really played with dolls much. I played with stuffed animals <font size="2">(like, seriously, my stuffed animal collection was ridiculous)</font>. I always felt a special kinship to Christopher Robin, because his form of play was always <em>my</em> form of play. His stuffed animals and quaint little secret world. That was me.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So having Disney bring that world to life, with respect and charm and heart, was everything I didn’t know I needed.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/q5e_aDo01ly1CZJlySTJzGmTd-VmY1iSNjSxhokmv5ssDuAGd2enJPd1kWx7szAK0GH0A1buLL09dNZqCDExI4qaSufk6pJOtCslpcYEpOsPG-gt-3xy5oTcE_YXEZE6nRDHGt-Bo-dreS86c8xlq8I0-sOuQJ5tblfMnx3Z789A7F3jNEYNSeBhtGK31ZY67wT7aw1N8obHxBnwWcLSCfn_sN_JNnLr_RkIUxQO-8Oe-_rIq9zdwfkaQ0y0W45Cee08SRTv4VvH92qL10t3v5SbDW_btS5UZb909a_IEvDVn2OrMJ_bk0O0WDC7ER4IlWsUMgGnmhRQZGs_eiJ7SLhAnu0cpcI5LiijbM-F92fPmw9nq3c2h3p6gv5C4cAmkhiZ3t8iKlVpilP7UyH7zxW4T0b_i0U38yllPuLmXJyFhZkRP7LEO7iWgVDpHNPFwJJ0l9L4VmmdSqSQYC-KpGcVraTf5wVCUMYgB7o0aq3GyK3hVEiUKht9JuMcWulHAqGozX4Ref-n1oNyg48dvHXEsUt7e4GUDowknT1ppgGogQSD28GEd2hlMV3xVLu5vVr3M5HhrRIpEC8QQpFyHt0tK55xex-z2xD5bJOBuFbdSF3Pyh98UTmH8epIbJYp6T26VknM6zavo1Z5b0sPDNrog6f9GcV2cdNLQrpzecY8r6YKvC512aJjo5DzqcXN8oNeN2w9cmiO6HQlLw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YryXe8e-CMm-EvlEk-iuIgty71OAZBdkHE7-nJFhW-aKIFE5xOVVORiLAQpgQy5BhwSSlzveQnZ_Ohm3Lh7amwqhXgZco2Oad-dQMedJ-2ejbmahs9EtNuRJnGmGwsIhFeCOV5Q_4pKlCXolaLzIzXhy2dvppr3EDB0F7fP0wZ_3sg3TBg1iL0HgepAGR0kdGC94MQiePaEWvfsXPfeJV6UUcDzWirsndS00Bo0Kk51QQ-g4TmsM5sV4fKio6ZpLL49o3GKnM-kj2qiM8IrHUYAYLGo9dfOHkTMIbT7mLqYFt27vsXlB_eXZOZ7BGa_oj-9Ac1J2rpjx47ZURjuI5S8xlgXctcy_Vz3Tibw_CIiVa4Ww2TB-V0LzznOEduzZ8IKpBwWvDKmFm0EUL_6pOoUk1aaj9TkHImp76D0Vvt8FkM6D3B4bI1NLNOpbzd2z8AMx9Vgph_Zhj1WMcWP_Ss-Iu_j88HwXT2R4ip_jgOSfHZw1YneUGl6dLMlvdMorRfEQf6Bh4fvyH0wgjFuwIXtpmUxRvC0txtcJu4oRbeq_ocrdndI6jQ8zPePx3YUq9qXvC85GK8pNiSORk_MbU3nA6Q2PSY3kvIqtuM-gm8LAkzeCrjzB0PTVxPdqqFY7DhmGwlwMPvl-kjS9CBJNg8WPdcxiOsVaIlMWgRF0395r-iTdDtz_GHdp7fpmjlUbDXMj0TdJPUgP3Xuiyw=w1628-h915-no" width="430" height="242"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">HARRY POTTER AND THE GOBLET OF FIRE</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Oh look! More Harry Potter things!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Though the <em>Prisoner of Azkaban </em>was my favorite book, <em>The Goblet of Fire </em>was definitely my favorite movie. <strong>I felt like it brought the fun charm of the books to life more-so than any of the other movies did, while also piling a bucket of feels on top of you…just like the book.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>My sister and I watched it together and we were giggling uncontrollably through the first half of it, then sobbing relentlessly by the last half. So yep. It was perfect!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="3">(Also David Tennant, guys. DAVID TENNANT!)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="3"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rAlIh92n10E5O4UluPdA6AiR3T24zf036_ff6-nF1h6AnG0p_xk5SQxzRumMLx0iJ7jVryouBJYO0kQfLhE80h6VGq9tBLdvqXwsrrTJqJHch6i9DylCfuJQDadnUsgXTDQ2XZPuJEnyI96JsP67oyxNhphvqWXKdiAalmN5Dff5c7gKOBlc8aqi7AE4-8S9zuROQFswtmTnDRXScoGAD3kK3Crc7a_GEL3STTlRKckwP0F34y_mYKZZlG1rK8S1ZwP1tSWM1xUpiJxEqpdeiLGXH4Q_jJ-IWmaJPV1m1dd0aX-mk2gbqou5lF0pEbZZ5bcYn4k8JVZ3V13kv7DD49zuOajDMxGV2KCw_PFz5mvjSzLIY6CnrlVjZQ6rTzQQlgtwruCSiBL_FrBt-VykwwJqtg7FphBPN1S04nkloxEgYzayOCllw9csd0sHLCZU0Stf8mZ2Cq9O8YjNrVx0aZfYNk-MV-EexWsbc5MwKBS1hnvA196e4vo7nyFspzdDXinROEpODtIF7KBpDBLlW_VOOMjplZK3WY4pZnkfhUlZkJNa1an4a6CxvEDsLKdDJ4kfGcbrrnXY_uX2p9bLC1g4gwV2zZcadH_EHy1IQVwcNGGl0NrWDvEufUAhYS4_RuXx0qnXjQjIos792HxNuxZQSRoJIkolNxlcfMJspoi1f2fa5UyyfU12dFmcYqGIMo7V5mk7YMLNKp9NYg=w500-h224-no" width="330" height="152"></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Although, I have to say, I was shocked how well <em>all</em> the movies followed the books. Like…I was not expecting them to be so true to the books. Especially not all <em>eight</em> movies! There were definitely things they skipped but…they only had so much room, so I can forgive them. I certainly had some qualms <font size="3">(I wouldn’t be a true bookworm if I didn’t)</font>, but, overall, I was extremely pleased with the movies! <font size="3">(But we’re not here to talk about my HP opinions are we? Maybe one day I’ll do a whole HP post and give you allllll the opinions from me you never wanted. BWAHAHAHA!)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="3"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xDarXORURdILnprzkhKVnm4btChPUGly3vuxNg1spBJDJj5qkXVd8trPB_IdnEpHseIHkQ5B8BhxqEE-ebvOB0mNoTD6MGiYhgpJDLx4xTy8oiL0oAiKgNlNoPTmzl0eJYFg-7H-lk7O6T1DKf2GQMlP5GvHXYfQUlLeryV240BCMUHFSR2l9wduakTkiVH46cgHaYm7jSgKnC6gamoh3DNnBdm4akmAbiBChzPd1V6dbzFsPvbsO7l81DBof7CoQvDF7L7FzZrbI3iwtZiKvxFeDJkFFNvc4PYZI0_5sEpl7M5IdPiG3WjB55JqcWepVd9dJ-eBPjhakwmTFcr38LnH-McbDEvnmyPqTBdLTvSQ0QqAQYBSatlVJ1IlayiOLY0ig10zK5Ei19s_jVdlFN_jUW5aotW9mUyesFCiLO17q52Eb1eaO-zpUlUs0XaeKBz9CQbgsG0x5pzYYw2m59VDTAU-fXZ-cjdfz6qgBZZbxq3bmI3evOuG-hZ6WFQBfdBi5NKq4kLvNtGvfiyapLYdbbsi4yKgdbkLvFDrnxORl9PtzLlK1mof0hhk7OPRO7zsLaEUtntw0Uz79Q5OS0UZ8KNEv18SBpNKQ0YyGFPJtmkKcknoKvr3mNoQLz5wiXEgykhqDyE570F1MuAmVoT0sj9kj2BWrjobroBAaT0v292zHyTD03y5f_J7fwAlEdAkTxsxajyXfJEYaA=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>OKAY. I will spare you of exposure to yet more of my geekiness <font size="2">(for now)</font>. <strong>But, overall, 2018 proved to be a fantastic year for books AND movies!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Can’t wait to see what all geekery I can get myself into this year!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xFAmF8e7sETDVi5N65gPFjwlOM2mTLwUWkjTyoP2l4Hs_N3UI-ZFTvTmGoZfEzircEaUrWZ9GPYqhT5AULU982OQgeKeFKOqqAMTxdXBleYOZNPaaxXOj12VV9_hqeqthu8kpuJdXGx2kfHbvFzEfBx-nJFB6-u3MUms5mnu93EuG0mW_xUrwKHxQ9IWeUdxDR5WWS97wcyQw3IkHGx5J3js7BBs8WRFYToSV4BPAV430V_kZErISzx9LeHlhf0qn109VH5Mxdx5xY9oyvIa5gzILmJWd-74p-m5Rc9TvOQXWCfdgrp5joYKJZ6xRo4G-8G8fSBQ3eY_MstFS-Vh79N8ZMRzrsQQgcwUAJHBn28zcuPw7thrFnMaJGgCdR5F7yjWtOPq_92iVLimdUYc4Gh8vMVfxBr2c7M_ayGtS3c_wg3c8h2dPXGls198JLkd2gT8VD5D2Ez4AZUvM8nILFc4JLsUuMx3twzqsvd32RHiPApkvQYJ0U5E4FD62RbTLq5jeUB5Ur9EitBI95ysvLRE8_K_Z3-PXpwex1WuY6YbWFqcAXjCfn-gl4j5A3-Kxx3YGGJ10jzHNMbDHI9fTqEE2LZZFmY7uedSZLnZ3QusYNrGTg-d4AsAwKtSn0vq3Dx9k74ypso8gry_H1EuprigiQ1VYjS7G5c0iUeNiBariXclEBOoan-6AYnRRrGLtl9ADMmUej90a0olTg=w1920-h395-no" width="550" height="115"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">Fangirl/boy tiiiime! What was YOUR favorite book and movie devoured in 2018??? I MUST KNOW. And have you read/watched any of these? Because you <em>know</em> I will happily flail over them with you!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-65847762023551617462019-01-07T09:28:00.000-06:002019-01-07T09:28:05.427-06:00Goals of 2019<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r6Ov9-ljyjq7CQ6cBIe2GOIDbuvtSuob-61gE5LjmLaYRmEm9mHX1aJnO12CwiMFXZ7WvCwqKdApFKABVPTHGKV2TGPI2F_jilEib-2yYLlnFjmTn_xhAXnLU16yFawZ8XJlrlNl5dBGBXvCVvqBUAyYucEmKMktyxcniOvArduBtvn4uQZkRgP5eyNdKhPFfQCVwCfrBcKnRzqx0vdeAogZvV89iDp7r3KRJv-iAZ7GQ6paNrcu8XEpWvErS0E4bmD-NexYviGeJS8qKaTOGLL1ZOEUHN4X2VUOvlvgt3l2Wf-ATGL80B0r58fXMVZuP3MNaI3__jQkIH6raWRN_Kz7UvFtVtLeVGo6gYrlVoWD2aQvp-WDDALVzzJCYYJ2YPVSQO5usJdEqDJgrMEt7J74A5Y2a3OkemdLmbb1MvRFSKoYA_toO61M4CjEwtb6k_9J3QBRiK57i1JT13pJd89FV9CbMR3WNLnUH9rXAYvKsLPcXuu9kXeJvkCazeGRsT1F5cqgT0Nvr20CVrRf36GvrkrVHKzVsQseQkDkqAsFWVw1lkva75XT30Phh78cpup893ZJ0x6rCtJTAv4jfWbExyS3wRqNq3fc5E8HxO3QlgLGxHNdC6w-YJdy1i6WxJ6JCFTOIKEH9Ty7PxHtU6kk8wLsnnJ_NxRRBrG9ASq2EJIt8tQpw-N3LVnSAWndD8FQLgSUrkIWTsIjMg=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">Happy 2019, my elflings! It’s…it’s…2019. That feels so <em>weird</em> to type out. But I’m trying to embrace it, because it’s A NEW YEAR. Which means new goals and dreams and hopes and adventures and I’M EXCITED.</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I do hope your Christmas and New Year’s was lovely. I am back from my little holiday break, and excited to be here because, though my break was fantastic and muuuch needed, I’VE MISSED YOU ALL. A LOT.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Being as how it’s <font size="3">(somehow)</font> a new year, that means GOALS. My favorite. <font size="2">#nerd</font> <strong>I’m going to do like I did </strong><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/01/goals-of-2018.html" target="_blank"><strong>last year</strong></a><strong> and list out all my goals for 2019 because nothing like the pressure of accountability to get me into gear.</strong> Woot, woot!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Funnily enough, a whole lot of my goals for this year are the same as they were last year. Some because, well, I didn’t <em>achieve</em> them last year. <font size="2">*COOOUGH*</font> But a lot of them are because I <em>did</em> achieve them last year <font size="3">(miracle of miracles!)</font> and want to keep the good habits I picked up.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>So let’s get started!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rB1P6lhaYLz74-CcWiGKZEIvU_TKlhpZXpj9vA-a7dGOwKKz1w4eAQJ-4DB7ECxs2FFMgnv0_6d1ezUSSDuixOW5QQZVm8Kv5HTirr5_AhxQ1_NEiEUxVb7pBxirNmpny5t1wVYMGVtu62jJA1phA2gsRoC_7WMNgs7aI8BwFHeUzjtWIV8Dw96PPG8ig-nbTWUxLRPnNkyEF07NL5rprH77XndCk5wK5HiCsUYLkLxDx8AHM18fqComzOiVJ7ZcfcWJA9z6vCq5FQBxsQL2CBqXVv6mz7SmFC2_6TnL4xNav0GnwaCXUZ9fZAVYSSzPegEL4N1MUdZSFi39NNe4OdKNUxQy4vvdiOHwOZBbwVkprBaF_CoKZGxWUaoQtwOAXkox8dT5D1YNZyrQHTnbG-uaIVZPp5PkfnTzjBuyI_aCQsfkdvZG3-3UTgq73JH3iszt-nfUGERX9SEZ3uxKhwVCEKJncbregX3_SqK3RrcP_r-PUXtpr_pc4P9DA1tuvJhuGTEI00N7XcgE8Axh3rcDv8GLzFxgZAGygXwTiGfk9a8vSfy58JSzpRrtKqEdKWElwwT6d9saN8x1_SjtAcN_hdz9O3F6qnKJGLAkzJ4ePlOSBO3PlmEkn5SsQbs5xkCP6XkfK2fWhN8E03MXmalkK4f2k8AYGvg0Uga9lNw2-r1dSNgGayLexhSd4cbqoPgNzJXgW35bJKLumA=w1647-h293-no" width="450" height="83"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>GOALS OF 2019</strong></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rB1P6lhaYLz74-CcWiGKZEIvU_TKlhpZXpj9vA-a7dGOwKKz1w4eAQJ-4DB7ECxs2FFMgnv0_6d1ezUSSDuixOW5QQZVm8Kv5HTirr5_AhxQ1_NEiEUxVb7pBxirNmpny5t1wVYMGVtu62jJA1phA2gsRoC_7WMNgs7aI8BwFHeUzjtWIV8Dw96PPG8ig-nbTWUxLRPnNkyEF07NL5rprH77XndCk5wK5HiCsUYLkLxDx8AHM18fqComzOiVJ7ZcfcWJA9z6vCq5FQBxsQL2CBqXVv6mz7SmFC2_6TnL4xNav0GnwaCXUZ9fZAVYSSzPegEL4N1MUdZSFi39NNe4OdKNUxQy4vvdiOHwOZBbwVkprBaF_CoKZGxWUaoQtwOAXkox8dT5D1YNZyrQHTnbG-uaIVZPp5PkfnTzjBuyI_aCQsfkdvZG3-3UTgq73JH3iszt-nfUGERX9SEZ3uxKhwVCEKJncbregX3_SqK3RrcP_r-PUXtpr_pc4P9DA1tuvJhuGTEI00N7XcgE8Axh3rcDv8GLzFxgZAGygXwTiGfk9a8vSfy58JSzpRrtKqEdKWElwwT6d9saN8x1_SjtAcN_hdz9O3F6qnKJGLAkzJ4ePlOSBO3PlmEkn5SsQbs5xkCP6XkfK2fWhN8E03MXmalkK4f2k8AYGvg0Uga9lNw2-r1dSNgGayLexhSd4cbqoPgNzJXgW35bJKLumA=w1647-h293-no" width="450" height="83"></p>
<p align="justify"><br> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6gBORKasISmAKtu8XxI3l1tGoMG6SSmWRuzU272C7fVWZNbv9iO8T-Ts0-gzFE2jqXVIm19uWXHxpbMzzEn6dKnjGXp5DvX7gDw5-kQltMG8o4XMz77LUZJnBH90b8CG06b7Xky55hiiluhL7mrlhak98CfLiQg7zm9SEcOMwOXUB6sfnaf13yIkca9QEBd3YMxMzk3Q7MxfKlBR6TqIj04CxETfYtKuDft-rHoCq_NVFznxhja0Z7P2wsZPFJm1w1C5PGUh43CFhuu1IA0hI65qGxFosEZinVpcWzfGDlTOJn2GmRldFqztk_CpXhDRolN0abSaJyC8wEQZk0hP_hRGogD39oLUWKZ-TLPTrdMaF9hq11eBT_cUKauS-OyNugjlydZoOIU4G2lsUJCa7af9M8tyb-j9vEp_uu6BvX1uFo9N1fGNyw6qym9Aetd1HJuGsFFCc7BIatuvP440LNSTTWb7ePYzPBjS_Wn8TtMmKm5nF2xBlD-Xwkf6GLaHwQUMF70wbfD0E1Mxq3gFEbiZZePuSUAdi8VjpPmY3JBbJeVoRnXLzlkhn1VDwQ80QGG12sHgE2WCRGKKznU0yVUkxYeH3HoR-ERCSsfCzM2end6gJYkMOzOYu3pVw4ynLgA1iq8epnHmunp8om3WCYfffUv2MRRYXgKGWTS-al_J3i7milmpYpy2NTcRLkfuqweJW2QwJ12Hr3Y--g=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7" face="SimSun">EDIT BURNING THORNS</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Eheheheh. So this has been on my list of goals for the past…3 years now? Because I just keep editing and editing and editiiiiing. BUT. <strong>I feel like this next edit may be the last it needs before it’s </strong><font size="2">*gulp*</font><strong> ready for querying.</strong> It’s gone through <em>so</em> many changes, and is like one billion times better from it’s first draft thanks to my AMAZIIIING beta-readers. And…and I think it truly is almost ready.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I don’t <em>think</em> this next edit will be nearly as intense and time consuming as last year’s.</strong> But LOLZ. I really shouldn’t say these things, because the universe does so love to prove me wrong. So WE’LL SEE. But I’m quite excited to dive back into my beloved story again. I haven’t touched it since September and I MISS IT. I’ve been working on it so long, it’s become my comfort place, if that makes sense. My home. And I’m ready to return!<strong> Plus, last year I discovered that I actually really, really like editing, of all things. </strong>o.o<strong> So for once I’m not terrified of the idea.</strong> Huzzah! <font size="3">(Miracles really do happen.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6gBORKasISmAKtu8XxI3l1tGoMG6SSmWRuzU272C7fVWZNbv9iO8T-Ts0-gzFE2jqXVIm19uWXHxpbMzzEn6dKnjGXp5DvX7gDw5-kQltMG8o4XMz77LUZJnBH90b8CG06b7Xky55hiiluhL7mrlhak98CfLiQg7zm9SEcOMwOXUB6sfnaf13yIkca9QEBd3YMxMzk3Q7MxfKlBR6TqIj04CxETfYtKuDft-rHoCq_NVFznxhja0Z7P2wsZPFJm1w1C5PGUh43CFhuu1IA0hI65qGxFosEZinVpcWzfGDlTOJn2GmRldFqztk_CpXhDRolN0abSaJyC8wEQZk0hP_hRGogD39oLUWKZ-TLPTrdMaF9hq11eBT_cUKauS-OyNugjlydZoOIU4G2lsUJCa7af9M8tyb-j9vEp_uu6BvX1uFo9N1fGNyw6qym9Aetd1HJuGsFFCc7BIatuvP440LNSTTWb7ePYzPBjS_Wn8TtMmKm5nF2xBlD-Xwkf6GLaHwQUMF70wbfD0E1Mxq3gFEbiZZePuSUAdi8VjpPmY3JBbJeVoRnXLzlkhn1VDwQ80QGG12sHgE2WCRGKKznU0yVUkxYeH3HoR-ERCSsfCzM2end6gJYkMOzOYu3pVw4ynLgA1iq8epnHmunp8om3WCYfffUv2MRRYXgKGWTS-al_J3i7milmpYpy2NTcRLkfuqweJW2QwJ12Hr3Y--g=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7" face="SimSun">QUERY AT LEAST THREE<br>LITERARY AGENTS</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Brb while I go hide in panic for 3 million years.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Ahem, so yes. I WANT THIS TO HAPPEN. The fact that I haven’t queried yet is just SHAMEFUL. I’ve been meaning to for yeeeears. <strong>But, at last, I think I have a book almost properly ready for it.</strong> Plus I did quite a bit of research on query letters last year, and I have a copy of the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Christian-Writers-Market-Guide-2018-Steve/dp/1621840867/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1546557639&sr=8-1&keywords=2018+christian+publishers+market+guide" target="_blank">2018 Christian Publishers Market Guide</a> to go through, which should help a LOT. So…I think I’m ready. <font size="2">I’msonotready.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I’m setting a goal of <em>at least</em> three because I work best with very specific goals.</strong> My original goal was to try to research some agents and hopefully query to them later this year. But then I realized with something that vague, I’d never get up the nerve to do it. But I’m stubborn and when I set something specific like this, I usually try my hardest to DO it. So yep. 3 agents it is <font size="3">(at least, but I may try more)</font>. #halp</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/E7uXTt9VGmQM4jkAf5kA-sO96ywGB6LAjGSS6I2hXsOOCmYtyaD3n63oLIdZV7qAQv0lsm6Q6ZPbCKcyCQy7K8vhSvYGXVS3ViO7AnevAm4G2EMS7W49qCFGwnPhkm45L4VodY_PD3ndjQ8dA-i9HYj4zovC-nsDDMhcuewTYSr3-L5DQYnmYEzn1GRYuedspfNf12DVFdMgMBRP7AQL3YOTepHxx43wnxm7pNfocRb_SzcF5hE3tGTD40UKLRkK4kI--pMK_nATTkoq4iFlzOp9Tf_tOfn_Ih2P054eoMirW--mapPVfFS8tSiRX6mAf5Ocy75x8TDpAMBFsCLLNLdSLKqtDWzGOQz-w0pp_esM2fpjQMnz7nqtLaqr0vgPLAeGc6rHMwR39ndsUfY_VPoQ01sN7H_NE2WPG23hST5OCDsadinCbduFFxzwqVPCgAqq0kS6EZmkWTSyUB2VrNdF-pwjacFISSlN0z4ibPr0QF4j7ze16QedeR7xYexTue37i9HOV-5DMJ2pEMbYf9ZPHoSS3f7qMY4yYruKqcjNQIndHtaFamrR4y1AU8dcyxDyv1cAElCEV7OF6M41AO75p8KqUkfl7-jJ66-Cs9aGSXqqSOjHw4gMVhb0uNvZ_fgf1mkRh_k_I6QXfcyGf8NApwU__UC_MbYI1O4kbhqzNmi8elEYcKnAaBkXZrMYcFlKwF6-DI6K4i8l3A=w250-h130-no" width="330" height="178"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6gBORKasISmAKtu8XxI3l1tGoMG6SSmWRuzU272C7fVWZNbv9iO8T-Ts0-gzFE2jqXVIm19uWXHxpbMzzEn6dKnjGXp5DvX7gDw5-kQltMG8o4XMz77LUZJnBH90b8CG06b7Xky55hiiluhL7mrlhak98CfLiQg7zm9SEcOMwOXUB6sfnaf13yIkca9QEBd3YMxMzk3Q7MxfKlBR6TqIj04CxETfYtKuDft-rHoCq_NVFznxhja0Z7P2wsZPFJm1w1C5PGUh43CFhuu1IA0hI65qGxFosEZinVpcWzfGDlTOJn2GmRldFqztk_CpXhDRolN0abSaJyC8wEQZk0hP_hRGogD39oLUWKZ-TLPTrdMaF9hq11eBT_cUKauS-OyNugjlydZoOIU4G2lsUJCa7af9M8tyb-j9vEp_uu6BvX1uFo9N1fGNyw6qym9Aetd1HJuGsFFCc7BIatuvP440LNSTTWb7ePYzPBjS_Wn8TtMmKm5nF2xBlD-Xwkf6GLaHwQUMF70wbfD0E1Mxq3gFEbiZZePuSUAdi8VjpPmY3JBbJeVoRnXLzlkhn1VDwQ80QGG12sHgE2WCRGKKznU0yVUkxYeH3HoR-ERCSsfCzM2end6gJYkMOzOYu3pVw4ynLgA1iq8epnHmunp8om3WCYfffUv2MRRYXgKGWTS-al_J3i7milmpYpy2NTcRLkfuqweJW2QwJ12Hr3Y--g=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7" face="SimSun">SUBMIT FLASH FICTION AND ARTICLES TO MAGAZINES, CONTEST, ETC.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>If I’m going to be querying I need a “resume” of sorts.</strong> I’ve been meaning to do this for actual YEARS. And this is gonna be the year. I’M DETERMINED.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’ll hopefully be trying to write some flash fiction for <a href="https://gohavok.com/" target="_blank">Havok</a> (which just launched it’s new website last week, by the way!), and I have a list of some other magazines to look into. <strong>BUT I’m aaaalways looking for more, so if you have suggestions PLEASE SHARE! I’m so new to this. Any help would make me love you forever.</strong> <font size="3">(JK, I already love all of you! <3)</font></p>
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<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6gBORKasISmAKtu8XxI3l1tGoMG6SSmWRuzU272C7fVWZNbv9iO8T-Ts0-gzFE2jqXVIm19uWXHxpbMzzEn6dKnjGXp5DvX7gDw5-kQltMG8o4XMz77LUZJnBH90b8CG06b7Xky55hiiluhL7mrlhak98CfLiQg7zm9SEcOMwOXUB6sfnaf13yIkca9QEBd3YMxMzk3Q7MxfKlBR6TqIj04CxETfYtKuDft-rHoCq_NVFznxhja0Z7P2wsZPFJm1w1C5PGUh43CFhuu1IA0hI65qGxFosEZinVpcWzfGDlTOJn2GmRldFqztk_CpXhDRolN0abSaJyC8wEQZk0hP_hRGogD39oLUWKZ-TLPTrdMaF9hq11eBT_cUKauS-OyNugjlydZoOIU4G2lsUJCa7af9M8tyb-j9vEp_uu6BvX1uFo9N1fGNyw6qym9Aetd1HJuGsFFCc7BIatuvP440LNSTTWb7ePYzPBjS_Wn8TtMmKm5nF2xBlD-Xwkf6GLaHwQUMF70wbfD0E1Mxq3gFEbiZZePuSUAdi8VjpPmY3JBbJeVoRnXLzlkhn1VDwQ80QGG12sHgE2WCRGKKznU0yVUkxYeH3HoR-ERCSsfCzM2end6gJYkMOzOYu3pVw4ynLgA1iq8epnHmunp8om3WCYfffUv2MRRYXgKGWTS-al_J3i7milmpYpy2NTcRLkfuqweJW2QwJ12Hr3Y--g=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7" face="SimSun">SWITCH BLOG OVER TO WORDPRESS</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Um, so hi, yes. I feel like this is coming out of the blue but, honestly? I’ve been wanting to do this for years <font size="3">(do you see a pattern of procrastination here? <font size="2">*cough*</font>)</font>. <strong>Blogger was a great platform to start out with when I was a little baby blogger, but it is time to switch to something more advanced and professional looking.</strong> I mean, sheesh, come March I’ll be blogging for EIGHT YEARS. o.o Like…it’s time for something more serious and permanent. Past time!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>SO YES. I’d really like to do this. The idea has TERRIFIED me, which is why I haven’t done it yet. But I was looking around at step-by-step guides the other day and, though it looks like it’ll be time-consuming, it does look doable. Maybe? Hopefully? <font size="2">I’msoscared.</font> So I’m gonna try!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I don’t know <em>when.</em> I was thiiinking maybe in March or April? My blogiversary is in March, so it’d be cool to do it after being here for 8 years. But WHO KNOWS. Knowing my procrastinating ways it may not even happen. Eheh. But I wanted to give you guys a heads up so you don’t freak out when suddenly everything has changed over here. If I do it, I hope to get a domain name too. So yeah. Serious changes may indeed be coming. BUT DON’T WORRY. When the time comes, I’ll let you guys know it’s about to happen. *nods*</p>
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<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6gBORKasISmAKtu8XxI3l1tGoMG6SSmWRuzU272C7fVWZNbv9iO8T-Ts0-gzFE2jqXVIm19uWXHxpbMzzEn6dKnjGXp5DvX7gDw5-kQltMG8o4XMz77LUZJnBH90b8CG06b7Xky55hiiluhL7mrlhak98CfLiQg7zm9SEcOMwOXUB6sfnaf13yIkca9QEBd3YMxMzk3Q7MxfKlBR6TqIj04CxETfYtKuDft-rHoCq_NVFznxhja0Z7P2wsZPFJm1w1C5PGUh43CFhuu1IA0hI65qGxFosEZinVpcWzfGDlTOJn2GmRldFqztk_CpXhDRolN0abSaJyC8wEQZk0hP_hRGogD39oLUWKZ-TLPTrdMaF9hq11eBT_cUKauS-OyNugjlydZoOIU4G2lsUJCa7af9M8tyb-j9vEp_uu6BvX1uFo9N1fGNyw6qym9Aetd1HJuGsFFCc7BIatuvP440LNSTTWb7ePYzPBjS_Wn8TtMmKm5nF2xBlD-Xwkf6GLaHwQUMF70wbfD0E1Mxq3gFEbiZZePuSUAdi8VjpPmY3JBbJeVoRnXLzlkhn1VDwQ80QGG12sHgE2WCRGKKznU0yVUkxYeH3HoR-ERCSsfCzM2end6gJYkMOzOYu3pVw4ynLgA1iq8epnHmunp8om3WCYfffUv2MRRYXgKGWTS-al_J3i7milmpYpy2NTcRLkfuqweJW2QwJ12Hr3Y--g=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7" face="SimSun">ATTEND REALM MAKERS</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>YES. This is probably happening again this year and AAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!! I AM SO EXCITED.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>It’s absolutely not set in stone because money and life and health and blah. But it’s definitely looking promising! I especially want to go this year because it’s at the same location as last year, and having that familiar setting will be <em>way</em> less overwhelming and easier on my body and mind since I’ll know what to expect, how much walking I’ll be doing, etc. So yeah, I’m <em>really</em> hoping it’ll work, because it’ll be sooo much easier having a location I’m now familiar with.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6gBORKasISmAKtu8XxI3l1tGoMG6SSmWRuzU272C7fVWZNbv9iO8T-Ts0-gzFE2jqXVIm19uWXHxpbMzzEn6dKnjGXp5DvX7gDw5-kQltMG8o4XMz77LUZJnBH90b8CG06b7Xky55hiiluhL7mrlhak98CfLiQg7zm9SEcOMwOXUB6sfnaf13yIkca9QEBd3YMxMzk3Q7MxfKlBR6TqIj04CxETfYtKuDft-rHoCq_NVFznxhja0Z7P2wsZPFJm1w1C5PGUh43CFhuu1IA0hI65qGxFosEZinVpcWzfGDlTOJn2GmRldFqztk_CpXhDRolN0abSaJyC8wEQZk0hP_hRGogD39oLUWKZ-TLPTrdMaF9hq11eBT_cUKauS-OyNugjlydZoOIU4G2lsUJCa7af9M8tyb-j9vEp_uu6BvX1uFo9N1fGNyw6qym9Aetd1HJuGsFFCc7BIatuvP440LNSTTWb7ePYzPBjS_Wn8TtMmKm5nF2xBlD-Xwkf6GLaHwQUMF70wbfD0E1Mxq3gFEbiZZePuSUAdi8VjpPmY3JBbJeVoRnXLzlkhn1VDwQ80QGG12sHgE2WCRGKKznU0yVUkxYeH3HoR-ERCSsfCzM2end6gJYkMOzOYu3pVw4ynLgA1iq8epnHmunp8om3WCYfffUv2MRRYXgKGWTS-al_J3i7milmpYpy2NTcRLkfuqweJW2QwJ12Hr3Y--g=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7" face="SimSun">READ MORE</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This is always my goal, and it never seems to happen. *shakes head* <strong>I average 30 books a year, which is just pathetic. I really, really want to make more time for reading this year.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>And to go under this category, <strong>I hope to read at least a couple of nonfiction writer help books. As well as read lots of fairytales.</strong> It’s been <em>ages</em> since I’ve read some fairytales, and I miss them! Plus, I have reeeeasons for needing to read all the fairytales again but that’s a secret for right now. *griiins*</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’m also hoping to read at least one popular series this year that like everyone in the world has read but I haven’t. A couple of years ago I read through the <em>Percy Jackson</em> series, and last year <font size="2">(it feels weird referring to 2018 as last year o.o)</font> I read <em>Harry Potter</em> <font size="3">(FINALLY!!!)</font>, and I want to keep up this streak. It’s just shameful that I haven’t read certain series. I’m thinking this year I might do <em>A Series of Unfortunate Events</em>. I did read the first 2, but that was years ago! So I want to read them altogether now. Mainly because my sister is obsessed with the Netflix series and says I HAVE to watch it. But being the good bookworm I am, I want to read the series first. But we’ll see! I’m very much a mood reader and try to make reading fun and stress free and not some obligation, so I like to leave my reading goals pretty loose and carefree. Otherwise it feels like a chore and that’s the last thing I want reading to be!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I also may totally steal <a href="https://traceydyck.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Tracey's</a> idea and read one book of Bryan Davis’ <em>Dragons in Our Midst/Oracles of Fire/Children of the Bard</em> books a month, because there’s exactly twelve. I’ve been wanting to reread them <font size="3">(and I actually never did read the last two of the Children of the Bard series! O__O)</font>, and this seems like a fantastic plan! Plus, I never reread anymore and I MISS IT.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6gBORKasISmAKtu8XxI3l1tGoMG6SSmWRuzU272C7fVWZNbv9iO8T-Ts0-gzFE2jqXVIm19uWXHxpbMzzEn6dKnjGXp5DvX7gDw5-kQltMG8o4XMz77LUZJnBH90b8CG06b7Xky55hiiluhL7mrlhak98CfLiQg7zm9SEcOMwOXUB6sfnaf13yIkca9QEBd3YMxMzk3Q7MxfKlBR6TqIj04CxETfYtKuDft-rHoCq_NVFznxhja0Z7P2wsZPFJm1w1C5PGUh43CFhuu1IA0hI65qGxFosEZinVpcWzfGDlTOJn2GmRldFqztk_CpXhDRolN0abSaJyC8wEQZk0hP_hRGogD39oLUWKZ-TLPTrdMaF9hq11eBT_cUKauS-OyNugjlydZoOIU4G2lsUJCa7af9M8tyb-j9vEp_uu6BvX1uFo9N1fGNyw6qym9Aetd1HJuGsFFCc7BIatuvP440LNSTTWb7ePYzPBjS_Wn8TtMmKm5nF2xBlD-Xwkf6GLaHwQUMF70wbfD0E1Mxq3gFEbiZZePuSUAdi8VjpPmY3JBbJeVoRnXLzlkhn1VDwQ80QGG12sHgE2WCRGKKznU0yVUkxYeH3HoR-ERCSsfCzM2end6gJYkMOzOYu3pVw4ynLgA1iq8epnHmunp8om3WCYfffUv2MRRYXgKGWTS-al_J3i7milmpYpy2NTcRLkfuqweJW2QwJ12Hr3Y--g=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7" face="SimSun">PARTICIPATE IN NANOWRIMO</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I mean, this is a given. And this year will be my TENTH NaNo. In a row. O_O So like, I <em>have</em> to participate!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6gBORKasISmAKtu8XxI3l1tGoMG6SSmWRuzU272C7fVWZNbv9iO8T-Ts0-gzFE2jqXVIm19uWXHxpbMzzEn6dKnjGXp5DvX7gDw5-kQltMG8o4XMz77LUZJnBH90b8CG06b7Xky55hiiluhL7mrlhak98CfLiQg7zm9SEcOMwOXUB6sfnaf13yIkca9QEBd3YMxMzk3Q7MxfKlBR6TqIj04CxETfYtKuDft-rHoCq_NVFznxhja0Z7P2wsZPFJm1w1C5PGUh43CFhuu1IA0hI65qGxFosEZinVpcWzfGDlTOJn2GmRldFqztk_CpXhDRolN0abSaJyC8wEQZk0hP_hRGogD39oLUWKZ-TLPTrdMaF9hq11eBT_cUKauS-OyNugjlydZoOIU4G2lsUJCa7af9M8tyb-j9vEp_uu6BvX1uFo9N1fGNyw6qym9Aetd1HJuGsFFCc7BIatuvP440LNSTTWb7ePYzPBjS_Wn8TtMmKm5nF2xBlD-Xwkf6GLaHwQUMF70wbfD0E1Mxq3gFEbiZZePuSUAdi8VjpPmY3JBbJeVoRnXLzlkhn1VDwQ80QGG12sHgE2WCRGKKznU0yVUkxYeH3HoR-ERCSsfCzM2end6gJYkMOzOYu3pVw4ynLgA1iq8epnHmunp8om3WCYfffUv2MRRYXgKGWTS-al_J3i7milmpYpy2NTcRLkfuqweJW2QwJ12Hr3Y--g=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7" face="SimSun">EXERCISE ALMOST DAILY</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I got in a fairly good routine of exercising for about 30 minutes most days last year, and I definitely want to keep this up!</strong> Or…restart, because NaNo and the holidays sort of killed the routine. Whoops. And I’m feeling it too. I spend so much time at the computer, my muscles get really sore. It’s definitely time to get up a routine again!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/AUkDLJm68kDhKbX_t1N_bCKyFq3QipWVVsZ-EA2ok90xGqumbrPl5Sy_fmPybzZgQZGAaxNJ4WSCSk5OVq3AiQ22RHQCENPO-1BNq5i9lnofQ3BMg9Ah7UFEkOnQQbT4y8v4Dhiry-W16MSwaeBkNQDAETLX_rc4xIjB56AxtUb8D6v8I9kBfTCjsGy51f5E1rqyxZpviHV4aktyeCk7V-2J-JV9Z-ev7NOcBIAlG54swbOVGUX341dcsFBz0xi5htqoJ9gXnRMGGt7lfGjaw8h7xDDVUvIvN6KqLmDAxEDoroJtaXxGXf-ztNkWWyJK_w76zsVqpm9bl6ulYDsGmBwlVDbFJHXYnTd6NuvLjW36cttpVXMOhxkFWTI6vFXvyFMC0RaqtsWrPKJz67wOPRDAc_xV0t31hNK_JqGrMcD-9YyHRs1-RmQgaHiexwW85puyN8TSOLmZHUkfyIzLQEAeXRZXaubAwa8O0rObIDX4vj51yixZ4xc1DG63Mj3VrU_nigB-_iRl6--AB2F-OMNZPYd7OYGmWSXCSiOC8rVA5FyE7mDYV_sFQ7PZ7gOrJ1teIrltUM7Q5aW_ikY7fK--fIJXMbOTOeWinwcvXMLAcvmHYW66YPB90RbRsh5bck4iKFSKzpxsDKOLd2uyANc8bbzzdD3pjwhZXOLioemVpZGNMRXM-tdO5T-JUJZALvtTj7EJgHjggABQDQ=w490-h296-no" width="350" height="214"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6gBORKasISmAKtu8XxI3l1tGoMG6SSmWRuzU272C7fVWZNbv9iO8T-Ts0-gzFE2jqXVIm19uWXHxpbMzzEn6dKnjGXp5DvX7gDw5-kQltMG8o4XMz77LUZJnBH90b8CG06b7Xky55hiiluhL7mrlhak98CfLiQg7zm9SEcOMwOXUB6sfnaf13yIkca9QEBd3YMxMzk3Q7MxfKlBR6TqIj04CxETfYtKuDft-rHoCq_NVFznxhja0Z7P2wsZPFJm1w1C5PGUh43CFhuu1IA0hI65qGxFosEZinVpcWzfGDlTOJn2GmRldFqztk_CpXhDRolN0abSaJyC8wEQZk0hP_hRGogD39oLUWKZ-TLPTrdMaF9hq11eBT_cUKauS-OyNugjlydZoOIU4G2lsUJCa7af9M8tyb-j9vEp_uu6BvX1uFo9N1fGNyw6qym9Aetd1HJuGsFFCc7BIatuvP440LNSTTWb7ePYzPBjS_Wn8TtMmKm5nF2xBlD-Xwkf6GLaHwQUMF70wbfD0E1Mxq3gFEbiZZePuSUAdi8VjpPmY3JBbJeVoRnXLzlkhn1VDwQ80QGG12sHgE2WCRGKKznU0yVUkxYeH3HoR-ERCSsfCzM2end6gJYkMOzOYu3pVw4ynLgA1iq8epnHmunp8om3WCYfffUv2MRRYXgKGWTS-al_J3i7milmpYpy2NTcRLkfuqweJW2QwJ12Hr3Y--g=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7" face="SimSun">UNPLUG MORE</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This was a big goal for last year and did I accomplish it? NOPE. Well, okay, I do feel like I did make more of an effort to not work every single second of the day. But I still got a lot of burnout that probably could have been easily avoided if my workaholic mind would just CHILL.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This year I reeeally want to make more of an effort to give myself some <em>rest</em> and allow recharging time.</strong> I’ve been feeling a serious decrease in creativity for like…a year now, and I think it’s due to not taking the time to refill that creative tank and REST.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>My hope is to “clock out” by 8 every night.</strong> And actually stick to it! Because I always have intentions of doing something like this, but, again, my workaholic self usually just ignores the idea of self-care. But maaaaybe this year will be the year I for reals take care of myself mentally and physically. One can hope. XD</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6gBORKasISmAKtu8XxI3l1tGoMG6SSmWRuzU272C7fVWZNbv9iO8T-Ts0-gzFE2jqXVIm19uWXHxpbMzzEn6dKnjGXp5DvX7gDw5-kQltMG8o4XMz77LUZJnBH90b8CG06b7Xky55hiiluhL7mrlhak98CfLiQg7zm9SEcOMwOXUB6sfnaf13yIkca9QEBd3YMxMzk3Q7MxfKlBR6TqIj04CxETfYtKuDft-rHoCq_NVFznxhja0Z7P2wsZPFJm1w1C5PGUh43CFhuu1IA0hI65qGxFosEZinVpcWzfGDlTOJn2GmRldFqztk_CpXhDRolN0abSaJyC8wEQZk0hP_hRGogD39oLUWKZ-TLPTrdMaF9hq11eBT_cUKauS-OyNugjlydZoOIU4G2lsUJCa7af9M8tyb-j9vEp_uu6BvX1uFo9N1fGNyw6qym9Aetd1HJuGsFFCc7BIatuvP440LNSTTWb7ePYzPBjS_Wn8TtMmKm5nF2xBlD-Xwkf6GLaHwQUMF70wbfD0E1Mxq3gFEbiZZePuSUAdi8VjpPmY3JBbJeVoRnXLzlkhn1VDwQ80QGG12sHgE2WCRGKKznU0yVUkxYeH3HoR-ERCSsfCzM2end6gJYkMOzOYu3pVw4ynLgA1iq8epnHmunp8om3WCYfffUv2MRRYXgKGWTS-al_J3i7milmpYpy2NTcRLkfuqweJW2QwJ12Hr3Y--g=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7" face="SimSun">BE BRAVE</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I usually try to choose one word to focus on for each year. Last year was INTENTIONAL, to be intentional about chasing my dreams and using my time.</strong> And, for like the first time <font size="2">(*COUGH*)</font>, I stuck to that word for most of the year. I don’t want to quit. I want to continue being intentional in every minute of this precious life I’ve been giving.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>And so the word for this year is an add-on, if you will, to last year’s word.</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">BRAVE.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>That’s my hope for this year. <strong>Because with intentionality, you have to have a bit of bravery.</strong> The biggest reason I hadn’t seriously edited most of my books yet? I was scared of editing. The reason I haven’t queried anything? It terrifies me. The reason I’ve yet to submit anything to a magazines? It’s SCARY.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Fear has brought my dreams to a screeching halt. And I’m tired of that.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Last year I stumped the fear a little bit and edited Burning Thorns as well as pitched it to a couple of agents at Realm Makers. And I want to keep pounding at it until it’s gone completely.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Being a writer is SCARY, guys.</strong> Being a creative in any form is one of the most emotionally invested jobs on this earth. We’re literally handing our hearts to people to poke and prod and critique. <strong>But if God has called you to be a creative, I can think of nothing more tragic than letting fear keep us away from that calling.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So this year I want to be BRAVE. To intentionally use my passion for stories for God’s glory, and stop letting fear drag me back from my dreams.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rB1P6lhaYLz74-CcWiGKZEIvU_TKlhpZXpj9vA-a7dGOwKKz1w4eAQJ-4DB7ECxs2FFMgnv0_6d1ezUSSDuixOW5QQZVm8Kv5HTirr5_AhxQ1_NEiEUxVb7pBxirNmpny5t1wVYMGVtu62jJA1phA2gsRoC_7WMNgs7aI8BwFHeUzjtWIV8Dw96PPG8ig-nbTWUxLRPnNkyEF07NL5rprH77XndCk5wK5HiCsUYLkLxDx8AHM18fqComzOiVJ7ZcfcWJA9z6vCq5FQBxsQL2CBqXVv6mz7SmFC2_6TnL4xNav0GnwaCXUZ9fZAVYSSzPegEL4N1MUdZSFi39NNe4OdKNUxQy4vvdiOHwOZBbwVkprBaF_CoKZGxWUaoQtwOAXkox8dT5D1YNZyrQHTnbG-uaIVZPp5PkfnTzjBuyI_aCQsfkdvZG3-3UTgq73JH3iszt-nfUGERX9SEZ3uxKhwVCEKJncbregX3_SqK3RrcP_r-PUXtpr_pc4P9DA1tuvJhuGTEI00N7XcgE8Axh3rcDv8GLzFxgZAGygXwTiGfk9a8vSfy58JSzpRrtKqEdKWElwwT6d9saN8x1_SjtAcN_hdz9O3F6qnKJGLAkzJ4ePlOSBO3PlmEkn5SsQbs5xkCP6XkfK2fWhN8E03MXmalkK4f2k8AYGvg0Uga9lNw2-r1dSNgGayLexhSd4cbqoPgNzJXgW35bJKLumA=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And there we are! My hopes for 2019. All pretty scary goals, which is precisely why I strongly feel like <em>brave</em> is the exact word I need for this year.</strong> It’s going to take a lot of bravery and determination to achieve these. But I grew a lot lost year, and formed some good habits. And I feel like I’m now ready to put everything I learned last year into practice. We’ll see how it goes! <font size="2">*nervous laughter*</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Whatever happens this year, I do hope to use my time wisely and soak up the moments. We have a whole new year to start over, to stretch for those dreams, to see God’s fresh mercies every morning. So let’s tackle 2019 with joy and excitement. It’s gonna be a good one, guys, I’m feeling it!</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="7">HAPPY 2019!!!</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/WaELwX1G8unW4G_HQOlepNR6cXm2hVolFi2SyH_i1p9yDF0dc1y6gQ-sOaPvzDDfMXHm6rF3vYQ7F0B8IOGMegangpOICUWUTE9LcUvVi4XGB_9fiK3QwwCYQ7GvJVw5FqcU79O-q0hosFFUSAkHtRiI9kdYwaaU3e5ZDAlb4yLLvGzuTIa7ahagEMe-r2HO6ui1jir5soTaOYqTzqNlJ3WRa8Zm9fydIOe_DZV6pQSW858yKlKOoWfe8prbbgS5E0qWpZ3NjRRMAnWge8gke36SiXfmqIRWg639ffIOiTAsVZ6tlvpjAV3-72I1ix6ffqk92_ZlPCz34hirx55Q7nq0np4Z1uH5rxtzK1ioDLVqANq93ChAhOE-scZXwtv6kXS0dH9e6jwQAam0Q3-RdnLnsKX8YqzZ4N_7qHyM6HKz5i7_3ikNg1X7h1BhdqjoJ2liN34FLB328vpTgVzCDV-HbMi-SJ2SnmgiwYrmMXPGiN1Eb2DKG3X3PM66LZ59izBcIuUXFbeIkldW1XFC5Z_huXCi83tmDufwijm1Fwugay-yfZtSJvpViQ_jcHsebqM5-D7wddrjt4T8qF_HX5TrdXrlCjR3mAMBbejx1-Mh21eJthesEgJ66xzFOA_zj3fwW6j7QPbEkBxNCZnR6K3GuTqB-b2Wlvu2Xw7_0vXgni1VLkGNQJgJqPocc57wjv11HLUdmNJSNtri9A=w500-h252-no" width="400" height="205">
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_deqJBhDhZoPLEhnKD-CJbRWt8N0dxl_Sw4V0IYcdm9iN9kPzi0l3KzZ2QaHLB9ZnPdiLsx8BHCb00Tn9Q11l0GCw_-PzdrLDju12gt_RpUSujE-bwNcUzIufPcb52xJJHbbe0xovOJ1wpu9ZKaRzrk08OeEKjaC5CNd740FwWOS4t126U6zoNUVYs-05cTSZSEMDJz7Wm1mAlrTBZ9CqYq7ipRh-3mVp4q55A4KjA4T9RXk3LnsZAN5HApUTT1Yae093hr0ShEnP8uLwO8-Q-NJ2e6FRmsxWQlGcb98IyQOLbWVzirMQLNSFYhOn-MGb5qEFOd1EV1AEOY9tyyW8IvSs0w9ToBnWVlJsQ83pqqn-pUme71A3Tv3HnnjOA1LW5EsYEGBlycx158aT9mVkEaHm8JawNhziA2Nv1kjLAPAwr8XSK16oVxz5cGZ8BU-BjQnxje3nde6dLbops9PQbdQMwWO6atSsWwVtVC51UlFQDyGYV3CAuSJH1LpoB_C0BxpzSK3h8HiyNtzK-mwDqmHZ5KCN0XplgN1AVhZn7ckqzCMc5RN_85rhUwi5yxpbgfy4Qte_s09gqvziug81kCvT_gSJbCaCnGy0_Zx68iRtLzdyCfuT2IcBdMDQPQtFe1mRer4KJm-whqisQVNgxjgQoL_bav-9hea63T_JdprnpawM1ad_QV2eYIt_pNWt0NrU5cs8F-MmzW5UA=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">Who’s in complete and utter shock it’s 2019??? <font size="4">*raises hand*</font> I can’t get used to it! How was your Christmas? Are you excited it’s a new year? What’s your biggest goal for 2019? I’d LOVE to hear about it! And I truly hope this year will be a blessing to each of you. You’re all in my prayers! <3 I can’t wait to tackle another year with all my dear internet peeps!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-11019857054409138452018-12-17T09:28:00.000-06:002018-12-17T09:28:53.633-06:002018 Recap - A Look Back at My Highlights and Goals<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br> <img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FGkmZdPLhTBWExyLLDkbbVGeAtSsqJJP7rrPYRupk65hBlem8F-p3KfOIaqqk2PDCeCE4Ww0rJhyJgO9jeTTw5DMlF_wUArbNsudnS5uPa2qhaU1mGuv8CyPC04ChnBYv42hBh16hqNQG3h-jXPx8UAwTfk8iilTOjQHqzGB1GWtsz7IT4qmcO7zIwE6016gGsm75LMWX19OdJLQ_uFYwb69EVNl0EY67Zysl5b0bQzx-rLp-vCIrOWpo7xIYzemR9OaoawC7ffVxL-ukNdr6t7-EbX_PDGRu0HgSd49U-h4ZbhiHTzcDFEK6G_OOvmxw7zCCFr8nLPADUCvLO-VvYutMjkDTddUJGm41NtmnQh6qek_wfZ4nhnFeKi0ZYdlhqR670l0rzYMcoT1PKDxmLkOfVx14r137EuVGadI9ICbIWXLlvxECB8wsjLRjhp3X65zyNn7O_oP7EWyBohFdSkWbz2hPzYeUCrzSCzj_WF-RvbOxwHfJmifzW82rLgEsZ4EBWPRcwA-94l2sDTkbOgp64kMtCnQ7Ybk3ayw6q4cVdKJATkfcTOUR45EenlQDpplXOzAkpGUpjdZmf1r6uKNXhVABWlxamt0pB-i6eIgfuW8UpZiMtm_LyU2LVRU7yzmyQqMunvo7vb3JnQPj2CA4uQNa89KNfykRG8KQFJtMfB_iKwhv4y4Tz7cHvOM6q7PFEu7fPJiqPy2Nw=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>Am I the only one who’s in shock that Christmas is NEXT WEEK? And thennn we’ll be zooming straight to the end of 2018. THE END OF 2018??? HOW.</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Since the year has <em>apparently</em> decided to just go and be nearly over without our permission, that means<strong> it’s time for a big ol’ 2018 recap!</strong> I’m doing this a little early because <strong>I’ve decided after today I’m going on a little hiatus until after New Year’s</strong> so I can properly enjoy Christmas and New Year’s. After writing a 129k book in 36 days <em>and</em> keeping up with the blog while I was at it I’m, well, tired. Just a smidge. XD But I’m also excited about CHRISTMAS. So yeah, I think it’ll be nice to have a break for just a few weeks. <strong>Thus this’ll be my last post for 2018.</strong> *LE GASP* I seriously can’t believe this year is almost over.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/c0XqnS8JhBtZVfjOPxV1t6x3_9F067z7MNtbd878o7pHcRaAu3oYoek3r1xNok0aQbAyr73Wy04Q3-48kRYCn4pg0cTQsP_Okq67s-VpSlEtFgMJs56rs-SK6LENZWw3Bn4k76rANxwU-HmOrX8lUMw8hljILWEP8ckgA9JsGUOOUF6syjwEtWSiC5VMji54FzBy05XbFSKYT9Fk_b8ePQ4tTDa5vxrcv_oiIhc1bCHo8xbKqV76ctGPtwH_nU0yxHyGbG2M1BP9t3Vq4LDuvSxoE8JvuL_8mFCy_onvPmrZKk1OoiYlIA42Vn0ewTK2K7vLGbtI5ys6wmXFl2khGi43at6YS1XzYBhmOAKQco9WD2cGDN_Km931AzJQ57J76PAGieR8bnkhMBuioqkCFFg-4l6TfD9AdZuuqRoKzaFSRj59GYmUl9CCpU0qCdny2qP3n9k6q5ZSUvGy1vPARF7HE8-plvGe3wu3ydfOd3vQ7_Ow-UST8-9biUAtb1vI_Pvg-eJjvpdUYQa0FRA4D9Frmjjt_FnKIYnQbovzrLU7D3Fn7UXQjmMgEa05q1LfSwuzn90XXNx22_YksY5Rh1mLhgKYcRklrsvZM2zhtSIuf_ckoF1_ojmlZGrh2FZnZwU84iTCGm6zI2UN9ED-_8ElYGHxZk9WYxjR-P8hCr9grBiwCgKqMAzopa7p_68qOev-J_Iq08HD0VtVFQ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">2018 RECAP</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/c0XqnS8JhBtZVfjOPxV1t6x3_9F067z7MNtbd878o7pHcRaAu3oYoek3r1xNok0aQbAyr73Wy04Q3-48kRYCn4pg0cTQsP_Okq67s-VpSlEtFgMJs56rs-SK6LENZWw3Bn4k76rANxwU-HmOrX8lUMw8hljILWEP8ckgA9JsGUOOUF6syjwEtWSiC5VMji54FzBy05XbFSKYT9Fk_b8ePQ4tTDa5vxrcv_oiIhc1bCHo8xbKqV76ctGPtwH_nU0yxHyGbG2M1BP9t3Vq4LDuvSxoE8JvuL_8mFCy_onvPmrZKk1OoiYlIA42Vn0ewTK2K7vLGbtI5ys6wmXFl2khGi43at6YS1XzYBhmOAKQco9WD2cGDN_Km931AzJQ57J76PAGieR8bnkhMBuioqkCFFg-4l6TfD9AdZuuqRoKzaFSRj59GYmUl9CCpU0qCdny2qP3n9k6q5ZSUvGy1vPARF7HE8-plvGe3wu3ydfOd3vQ7_Ow-UST8-9biUAtb1vI_Pvg-eJjvpdUYQa0FRA4D9Frmjjt_FnKIYnQbovzrLU7D3Fn7UXQjmMgEa05q1LfSwuzn90XXNx22_YksY5Rh1mLhgKYcRklrsvZM2zhtSIuf_ckoF1_ojmlZGrh2FZnZwU84iTCGm6zI2UN9ED-_8ElYGHxZk9WYxjR-P8hCr9grBiwCgKqMAzopa7p_68qOev-J_Iq08HD0VtVFQ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I have to say, 2018 was a <em>wonderful</em> year.</strong> So many blessings came my way in both 2017 and 2018, and I’m utterly grateful to God because the previous years were pretty hard ones. Obviously, this was not a perfect year by any stretch of the imagination. I mean, DUH. There is no such thing as a “perfect” year. Two really hard things that happened was my beloved dog, Navi, had to be put down and one of my dearest friends moved many states away <font size="3">(making that the 3rd friend I’ve had that had to move *sniff, sniff*)</font>. <strong>But this is also the year I broke fully out of a writer’s rut I had fallen into and got to go to REALM MAKERS, which was one of the most amazing things I’ve ever experienced.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Realm Makers was definitely The Big Highlight of 2018. But there were a million other little blessings and joys to be found each day that added up to a beautiful year. I really felt myself changing and growing for the better this year.</strong> I am most certainly not who I wish to be <font size="3">(I don’t think we ever reach that point though)</font>, but I’m really thanking God for all He brought me through and taught me this year. What exactly all these things <em>are…</em>it’s hard to put into words. I’d really like to sit down and try sometime though. Between Realm Makers and a few other circumstances and just spending a lot of time pondering life in general this year, there’s so <em>much</em> running through my head and shaping me. Perhaps next year I’ll have it all untangled enough to share in some blog posts with you. But for now I’ll say, <strong>2018 was a year of growth in the best way possible,</strong> and I’m excited to dive into 2019 and see what’s in store.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But before I get ahead of myself, let’s look back at 2018! At the beginning of the year I posted my <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/01/goals-of-2018.html" target="_blank">goals for 2018</a>. I thought it’d be fun to revisit them now and see how far I got.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/c0XqnS8JhBtZVfjOPxV1t6x3_9F067z7MNtbd878o7pHcRaAu3oYoek3r1xNok0aQbAyr73Wy04Q3-48kRYCn4pg0cTQsP_Okq67s-VpSlEtFgMJs56rs-SK6LENZWw3Bn4k76rANxwU-HmOrX8lUMw8hljILWEP8ckgA9JsGUOOUF6syjwEtWSiC5VMji54FzBy05XbFSKYT9Fk_b8ePQ4tTDa5vxrcv_oiIhc1bCHo8xbKqV76ctGPtwH_nU0yxHyGbG2M1BP9t3Vq4LDuvSxoE8JvuL_8mFCy_onvPmrZKk1OoiYlIA42Vn0ewTK2K7vLGbtI5ys6wmXFl2khGi43at6YS1XzYBhmOAKQco9WD2cGDN_Km931AzJQ57J76PAGieR8bnkhMBuioqkCFFg-4l6TfD9AdZuuqRoKzaFSRj59GYmUl9CCpU0qCdny2qP3n9k6q5ZSUvGy1vPARF7HE8-plvGe3wu3ydfOd3vQ7_Ow-UST8-9biUAtb1vI_Pvg-eJjvpdUYQa0FRA4D9Frmjjt_FnKIYnQbovzrLU7D3Fn7UXQjmMgEa05q1LfSwuzn90XXNx22_YksY5Rh1mLhgKYcRklrsvZM2zhtSIuf_ckoF1_ojmlZGrh2FZnZwU84iTCGm6zI2UN9ED-_8ElYGHxZk9WYxjR-P8hCr9grBiwCgKqMAzopa7p_68qOev-J_Iq08HD0VtVFQ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">A LOOK BACK<br>AT 2018’S GOALS</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/c0XqnS8JhBtZVfjOPxV1t6x3_9F067z7MNtbd878o7pHcRaAu3oYoek3r1xNok0aQbAyr73Wy04Q3-48kRYCn4pg0cTQsP_Okq67s-VpSlEtFgMJs56rs-SK6LENZWw3Bn4k76rANxwU-HmOrX8lUMw8hljILWEP8ckgA9JsGUOOUF6syjwEtWSiC5VMji54FzBy05XbFSKYT9Fk_b8ePQ4tTDa5vxrcv_oiIhc1bCHo8xbKqV76ctGPtwH_nU0yxHyGbG2M1BP9t3Vq4LDuvSxoE8JvuL_8mFCy_onvPmrZKk1OoiYlIA42Vn0ewTK2K7vLGbtI5ys6wmXFl2khGi43at6YS1XzYBhmOAKQco9WD2cGDN_Km931AzJQ57J76PAGieR8bnkhMBuioqkCFFg-4l6TfD9AdZuuqRoKzaFSRj59GYmUl9CCpU0qCdny2qP3n9k6q5ZSUvGy1vPARF7HE8-plvGe3wu3ydfOd3vQ7_Ow-UST8-9biUAtb1vI_Pvg-eJjvpdUYQa0FRA4D9Frmjjt_FnKIYnQbovzrLU7D3Fn7UXQjmMgEa05q1LfSwuzn90XXNx22_YksY5Rh1mLhgKYcRklrsvZM2zhtSIuf_ckoF1_ojmlZGrh2FZnZwU84iTCGm6zI2UN9ED-_8ElYGHxZk9WYxjR-P8hCr9grBiwCgKqMAzopa7p_68qOev-J_Iq08HD0VtVFQ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cKntFp0XMqXTbCHIvJoGeji--G0V4rX9M6ib_0HSKMsik4dwkpd8rXgVmgPk2u5Ea_6_2HKcJmCW4bARk1JJirU3GvdWoIQK53h1Rk5id9j2NV0DSLN4mN95OtrUOq0044WhnUxo2iZJ9UIuVK2hTq8bCKDcHmY8_CEytHEnzjrNuohXDINTCGMsqDAtl6JcFKQz8HSUXaEf67rZ3_iLa3fR_e4PcSIq_aJt_9lvTUX4oaXYMsKEwu5vO3fUBMvxf2qbHMTfCgHifUprBrB1cZsxZattZgmrnn-OjmIjqTmxcJBcJSVOVlX5sw6yCJ6vXtTE3Ke8Wh0ho3atUX_tJAxRrkvUr__qhCCrGzbi1DOs9MR6fckjQtlKqY7mWJ8b6hKS5N6sKuliDZ7ZcSLoUA9-Y8DRT1CENO-h5hg2lFsLSzt0ufALAUcphXA3vAOv1fpbJQjAfDwRYMmeFb64usx4MWrdDGZxbwRO0DDs17tvNjx0ufENJbIjxktDSBVjGA4Sq3waAwwtMXlMru0-XTUgAldIwPcw4OmYgX3sJD8AIvNHMawuQ9gE9Q1UqIWi0oVSejbJ7BIHgELV3Xs1ffjYgSQrrAzadK64v-oTukh2uOD-9-oL-6DCQ-liF8KcbNpcnMfylBEEJJNeWdLZ11-3hh8X2WKoCccymkLZiJVk1VQGCTx9N-Zi_OtK0N3FFLG5wRib4tMkXkUSKQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">EDIT BURNING THORNS</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">Achieved: </font><font size="5"><strong>YES!</strong></font></p><strong>
<p align="justify"><br>This one was a big SUCCESS!!! One of the things I’m most pleased with for the year. I did a big ol’ revision of BT and am so very happy with how the story is shaping up.</strong> It’s gone through so many edits, and will have another one soon <font size="3">(thanks to all the FANTASTIC suggestions I’m getting from my beta-readers. Love you guuuys! <3)</font>. But I really feel like this last revision got it so much closer to what it needs to be.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This was my main focus for the whole first half of 2018 and, though many headaches came with it, the overall process was actually a joy.</strong> I’m learning I actually <em>like</em> editing, and seeing this story shape up is delightful. It’s my most edited story I’ve EVER had, and it’s proving to me that editing does not have to be this big, scary thing to avoid <font size="2">(like I used to *cough, cough*)</font>. There’s such a satisfaction with it!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Doing this set of revisions for BT was my #1 goal for 2018, and I’m beyond happy I managed it.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cKntFp0XMqXTbCHIvJoGeji--G0V4rX9M6ib_0HSKMsik4dwkpd8rXgVmgPk2u5Ea_6_2HKcJmCW4bARk1JJirU3GvdWoIQK53h1Rk5id9j2NV0DSLN4mN95OtrUOq0044WhnUxo2iZJ9UIuVK2hTq8bCKDcHmY8_CEytHEnzjrNuohXDINTCGMsqDAtl6JcFKQz8HSUXaEf67rZ3_iLa3fR_e4PcSIq_aJt_9lvTUX4oaXYMsKEwu5vO3fUBMvxf2qbHMTfCgHifUprBrB1cZsxZattZgmrnn-OjmIjqTmxcJBcJSVOVlX5sw6yCJ6vXtTE3Ke8Wh0ho3atUX_tJAxRrkvUr__qhCCrGzbi1DOs9MR6fckjQtlKqY7mWJ8b6hKS5N6sKuliDZ7ZcSLoUA9-Y8DRT1CENO-h5hg2lFsLSzt0ufALAUcphXA3vAOv1fpbJQjAfDwRYMmeFb64usx4MWrdDGZxbwRO0DDs17tvNjx0ufENJbIjxktDSBVjGA4Sq3waAwwtMXlMru0-XTUgAldIwPcw4OmYgX3sJD8AIvNHMawuQ9gE9Q1UqIWi0oVSejbJ7BIHgELV3Xs1ffjYgSQrrAzadK64v-oTukh2uOD-9-oL-6DCQ-liF8KcbNpcnMfylBEEJJNeWdLZ11-3hh8X2WKoCccymkLZiJVk1VQGCTx9N-Zi_OtK0N3FFLG5wRib4tMkXkUSKQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">ATTEND REALM MAKERS</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><font size="6">Achieved:</font> <strong>Yesss!</strong></font></p><strong>
<p align="justify"><br>THIS HAPPENED TOOOOO!!!</strong> And just… *clutches heart* I’m still reeling from the utter amazingness of it all. <strong>Meeting some of you <em>in person, </em>talking with real life actual authors and having them sign my copies of their books, getting so much knowledge on the writing life from the professionals, pitching my book to literary agents for the first time EVER </strong><font size="3">(o___o)</font><strong>, and just being completely and totally encouraged in this crazy life of writing I’ve chosen was invaluable.</strong> Though it happened way back in July, I’m <em>still </em>filled up with all I gained there. It was an experience like no other and I can’t thank God enough for making a way for me to go. I felt His hand in all of it, and whenever I think of it, it just makes me want to cry happy tears over how much He cares about my writing journey. He really does care about every single aspect of our lives, guys. We have a good God!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This was definitely, definitely the highlight of 2018!</strong></p><strong>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wPXEEpt0grqcyris0ovKe5ERr1XY9ozU4XDR-UIAevR4YCjGOp1dzo9DiCwEmGeWdniR3GtEj1m-ilM6rS4NJWeKdsQhe8Yo4_xAtdBGf13Mp2kSwCvH1tHsKYOaJHhMSEuJWp5S4XsQ5bUoMitHi0UG9Ncfoypf3rYExP8pmkDlVO22YHdAlz6yq-DnPC7h2ulzPXO_nKdueOds4GKbRUEKHbKaIvU68Fdk6uyCv62hxa_5TAFFWCmjAuz7lc2cQVoMvGPaKnDqof_bs0j21N_Pwh-MNFCYmkMRWBo6nwUT3PBlLK6_4TovkzxC9q7IuAuVmHbBwOm7w8vQsovUtHjvlf9aWBF6EKXEEm15JgXLLnkgF_LNb3D26OFz1RvMF-P7m6t78GOBDWLm97d6LRlCMShWxwDV4JRdReMbz5Lc7HjBDd8utGzNd-Eb1RDS7FWLRUrPdksbcM3WyRC6hUAQ2ri8NyEqt21ireV69YiOf1CdVkdVdVHf4Ykv_2Aw_RpqxCo4WUh434GUB3Y9uhJ2ueIeJDfN51wuMr2Xw8hLK40Zewx_xDNorIz35lz-0B8dC4UuVmEjs8hXJ9f61vxwbpYoF0zxZ7XfpnEw1Iz66n8XFXSeVT5ADIsQoDt3n5Iwx-XUBObPrprEScCMYjYmWHVa7ibSrPAgTw9PMPacTFRctr-C8CuLHBQRi1R6hrqeppwOOhav99jl9g=w1628-h915-no" width="550" height="311"></strong><font size="2">With so many of my amazing peeps at RM. <3</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>It also took up an exuberant amount of my time as I prepped for it, did immense amounts of research, made business cards and one-sheets and learned everything I could about writers conferences and the people I’d be pitching my book to and just yeah wow. I spent a good two months alone just prepping for the conference. But it was all worth it!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Okay, I need to stop blabbering since I already did a big <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/08/realm-makers-2018-recap.html" target="_blank">Realm Makers recap post</a> after the event! You guys don’t need to hear about it all again. XD</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cKntFp0XMqXTbCHIvJoGeji--G0V4rX9M6ib_0HSKMsik4dwkpd8rXgVmgPk2u5Ea_6_2HKcJmCW4bARk1JJirU3GvdWoIQK53h1Rk5id9j2NV0DSLN4mN95OtrUOq0044WhnUxo2iZJ9UIuVK2hTq8bCKDcHmY8_CEytHEnzjrNuohXDINTCGMsqDAtl6JcFKQz8HSUXaEf67rZ3_iLa3fR_e4PcSIq_aJt_9lvTUX4oaXYMsKEwu5vO3fUBMvxf2qbHMTfCgHifUprBrB1cZsxZattZgmrnn-OjmIjqTmxcJBcJSVOVlX5sw6yCJ6vXtTE3Ke8Wh0ho3atUX_tJAxRrkvUr__qhCCrGzbi1DOs9MR6fckjQtlKqY7mWJ8b6hKS5N6sKuliDZ7ZcSLoUA9-Y8DRT1CENO-h5hg2lFsLSzt0ufALAUcphXA3vAOv1fpbJQjAfDwRYMmeFb64usx4MWrdDGZxbwRO0DDs17tvNjx0ufENJbIjxktDSBVjGA4Sq3waAwwtMXlMru0-XTUgAldIwPcw4OmYgX3sJD8AIvNHMawuQ9gE9Q1UqIWi0oVSejbJ7BIHgELV3Xs1ffjYgSQrrAzadK64v-oTukh2uOD-9-oL-6DCQ-liF8KcbNpcnMfylBEEJJNeWdLZ11-3hh8X2WKoCccymkLZiJVk1VQGCTx9N-Zi_OtK0N3FFLG5wRib4tMkXkUSKQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">RESEARCH LITERARY AGENTS</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><font size="6">Achieved:</font> <strong>Yes? No? Sorta?</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Erm…eheh. <strong>I didn’t do this one as much as I <em>should</em> have. Though, like I said, I researched the two agents I pitched to at Realm Makers, and learned a lot more about agents and what I’m looking for via that.</strong> I also purchased a publishing market guide and though I haven’t looked through it much, just having it is definitely a start to finding agents to query to! <strong>So I guess you can say I kind of half did this one but…need to get more serious about it.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cKntFp0XMqXTbCHIvJoGeji--G0V4rX9M6ib_0HSKMsik4dwkpd8rXgVmgPk2u5Ea_6_2HKcJmCW4bARk1JJirU3GvdWoIQK53h1Rk5id9j2NV0DSLN4mN95OtrUOq0044WhnUxo2iZJ9UIuVK2hTq8bCKDcHmY8_CEytHEnzjrNuohXDINTCGMsqDAtl6JcFKQz8HSUXaEf67rZ3_iLa3fR_e4PcSIq_aJt_9lvTUX4oaXYMsKEwu5vO3fUBMvxf2qbHMTfCgHifUprBrB1cZsxZattZgmrnn-OjmIjqTmxcJBcJSVOVlX5sw6yCJ6vXtTE3Ke8Wh0ho3atUX_tJAxRrkvUr__qhCCrGzbi1DOs9MR6fckjQtlKqY7mWJ8b6hKS5N6sKuliDZ7ZcSLoUA9-Y8DRT1CENO-h5hg2lFsLSzt0ufALAUcphXA3vAOv1fpbJQjAfDwRYMmeFb64usx4MWrdDGZxbwRO0DDs17tvNjx0ufENJbIjxktDSBVjGA4Sq3waAwwtMXlMru0-XTUgAldIwPcw4OmYgX3sJD8AIvNHMawuQ9gE9Q1UqIWi0oVSejbJ7BIHgELV3Xs1ffjYgSQrrAzadK64v-oTukh2uOD-9-oL-6DCQ-liF8KcbNpcnMfylBEEJJNeWdLZ11-3hh8X2WKoCccymkLZiJVk1VQGCTx9N-Zi_OtK0N3FFLG5wRib4tMkXkUSKQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">WORK ON A QUERY LETTER</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><font size="6">Achieved:</font> <strong>Ish? But not really…</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This is kind of another one I sooort of did but not really? I put together a proposal for someone I was pitching to at RM, which required a one page query-type letter. So <strong>I did a boat-load of researching on query letters, and threw one together buuut I don’t think it’s very good. I need to work on that more.</strong> But, again, I did some research and feel a bit more prepared anyway. It’s just a matter of sitting down and <em>doing</em> it.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cKntFp0XMqXTbCHIvJoGeji--G0V4rX9M6ib_0HSKMsik4dwkpd8rXgVmgPk2u5Ea_6_2HKcJmCW4bARk1JJirU3GvdWoIQK53h1Rk5id9j2NV0DSLN4mN95OtrUOq0044WhnUxo2iZJ9UIuVK2hTq8bCKDcHmY8_CEytHEnzjrNuohXDINTCGMsqDAtl6JcFKQz8HSUXaEf67rZ3_iLa3fR_e4PcSIq_aJt_9lvTUX4oaXYMsKEwu5vO3fUBMvxf2qbHMTfCgHifUprBrB1cZsxZattZgmrnn-OjmIjqTmxcJBcJSVOVlX5sw6yCJ6vXtTE3Ke8Wh0ho3atUX_tJAxRrkvUr__qhCCrGzbi1DOs9MR6fckjQtlKqY7mWJ8b6hKS5N6sKuliDZ7ZcSLoUA9-Y8DRT1CENO-h5hg2lFsLSzt0ufALAUcphXA3vAOv1fpbJQjAfDwRYMmeFb64usx4MWrdDGZxbwRO0DDs17tvNjx0ufENJbIjxktDSBVjGA4Sq3waAwwtMXlMru0-XTUgAldIwPcw4OmYgX3sJD8AIvNHMawuQ9gE9Q1UqIWi0oVSejbJ7BIHgELV3Xs1ffjYgSQrrAzadK64v-oTukh2uOD-9-oL-6DCQ-liF8KcbNpcnMfylBEEJJNeWdLZ11-3hh8X2WKoCccymkLZiJVk1VQGCTx9N-Zi_OtK0N3FFLG5wRib4tMkXkUSKQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">EXERCISE</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><font size="6">Achieved:</font> <strong>For the most part?</strong></font></p><strong>
<p align="justify"><br>I actually almost sort of kept up with this one!</strong> *LE GASP* Not perfectly, but I stuck with a routine waaaay more than I have in a long, long while, so I’ll take it. I could always do more though…</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cKntFp0XMqXTbCHIvJoGeji--G0V4rX9M6ib_0HSKMsik4dwkpd8rXgVmgPk2u5Ea_6_2HKcJmCW4bARk1JJirU3GvdWoIQK53h1Rk5id9j2NV0DSLN4mN95OtrUOq0044WhnUxo2iZJ9UIuVK2hTq8bCKDcHmY8_CEytHEnzjrNuohXDINTCGMsqDAtl6JcFKQz8HSUXaEf67rZ3_iLa3fR_e4PcSIq_aJt_9lvTUX4oaXYMsKEwu5vO3fUBMvxf2qbHMTfCgHifUprBrB1cZsxZattZgmrnn-OjmIjqTmxcJBcJSVOVlX5sw6yCJ6vXtTE3Ke8Wh0ho3atUX_tJAxRrkvUr__qhCCrGzbi1DOs9MR6fckjQtlKqY7mWJ8b6hKS5N6sKuliDZ7ZcSLoUA9-Y8DRT1CENO-h5hg2lFsLSzt0ufALAUcphXA3vAOv1fpbJQjAfDwRYMmeFb64usx4MWrdDGZxbwRO0DDs17tvNjx0ufENJbIjxktDSBVjGA4Sq3waAwwtMXlMru0-XTUgAldIwPcw4OmYgX3sJD8AIvNHMawuQ9gE9Q1UqIWi0oVSejbJ7BIHgELV3Xs1ffjYgSQrrAzadK64v-oTukh2uOD-9-oL-6DCQ-liF8KcbNpcnMfylBEEJJNeWdLZ11-3hh8X2WKoCccymkLZiJVk1VQGCTx9N-Zi_OtK0N3FFLG5wRib4tMkXkUSKQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">READ MORE</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><font size="6">Achieved:</font> <strong>Not…much</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Mmmm… <strong>I didn’t read as much as I would have liked.</strong> Life kept getting in the way. Blah. <strong>Though I <em>do</em> feel like I made more of an effort to use free time to read this year than I have in a while. I tried!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Alsoooo, I’ve <font size="3">(almost)</font> achieved something that I should have done yeeeears ago: <strong>I’VE READ THE HARRY POTTER BOOKS.</strong> Yeah, for the first time. o.o (Technically I’m still reading the finale, so no spoilers!) This has been a huge highlight of the year. Why have I never read these fantastic books before??? I’m in love.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>If anyone’s wondering, Hermione, Fred and George, Luna, and Neville are my favorites (I also really like Remus and…well okay all of them!), I’m absolutely a Hufflepuff <font size="3">(yes, I took the official test on Pottermore, but I already knew I was before taking the test XD)</font>, and I thiiiink my favorite book is <em>The Prisoner of Azkaban</em> but UGH. I don’t know! They’re all so good! Also I haven’t watched the movies yet. I want to read the books first, and then do a big movie marathon and I’M EXCITED.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>(Yeah, I’ve become a total Potterhead and I don’t foresee myself every clawing out. So hello! Looks like I’ve joined the rest of society. XD)</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YOtZhR9nyXbweXssKFwsEZcqLKGoqg_VDogg9SZYhNSTiCW26jfiC1dOQxpS3Ld1Ba8KwXyXYL15aG8wEiDn6yAsChG74Z9Rjtdlc_Mu6m_qn-bQPvMKMTfVaYHSeoZeDYKDDASkRrtQp8c2MA__ZMKyE7i5VMdhYgm1LnYte8tKQKvTHSlGz9oVFQlspodnViTTbfmANzBYeXtEqQRpgM0Xw7ogk0u0MV87jEqWXJLRNnXNjLyseiOjqAxJSeaVwRdIXP8zsNaRoVK9IAt0kTTY5Rd-1skUhGiLR1hlTFYqulPrLmXJGOMrPssIJ4qUyMBH1VYm8iZLTF4iDLqdXLoWKVmxkKsdHTayfpzverqtr1hZ0msIHVQe011XUxYKRn86lf8LTUluplSn68Pe5ifIStIqXSHWooaxjAs5Hv8A0tw7J_pFTvM9GINHiv2kA3ilSeKxJymlqHeMY2SL_A4lq2tRa-4EOzMG743w9mmN2OeGz42rnrOFbmlW2h0PwFlX8C-8o9Hdi4uustR3KQ_21OZT58n9glIARBUjoX7DhszqRfFdLxUGz8RU3yKW7YuH9sBRNhqZtprf8dijLu73iXTMNW1sB9UKeUUmsK1pOQ9uuuLqEARzgU_9X_HYuxnE7Jsz9a9N8SEyEHSZFZ4huiUdNqNuFcgIQcBrYDp5h1HjIvLk_GJxiZOU0fGEQzIJiB3tODtxK6CvTA=w1920-h900-no" width="500" height="235"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cKntFp0XMqXTbCHIvJoGeji--G0V4rX9M6ib_0HSKMsik4dwkpd8rXgVmgPk2u5Ea_6_2HKcJmCW4bARk1JJirU3GvdWoIQK53h1Rk5id9j2NV0DSLN4mN95OtrUOq0044WhnUxo2iZJ9UIuVK2hTq8bCKDcHmY8_CEytHEnzjrNuohXDINTCGMsqDAtl6JcFKQz8HSUXaEf67rZ3_iLa3fR_e4PcSIq_aJt_9lvTUX4oaXYMsKEwu5vO3fUBMvxf2qbHMTfCgHifUprBrB1cZsxZattZgmrnn-OjmIjqTmxcJBcJSVOVlX5sw6yCJ6vXtTE3Ke8Wh0ho3atUX_tJAxRrkvUr__qhCCrGzbi1DOs9MR6fckjQtlKqY7mWJ8b6hKS5N6sKuliDZ7ZcSLoUA9-Y8DRT1CENO-h5hg2lFsLSzt0ufALAUcphXA3vAOv1fpbJQjAfDwRYMmeFb64usx4MWrdDGZxbwRO0DDs17tvNjx0ufENJbIjxktDSBVjGA4Sq3waAwwtMXlMru0-XTUgAldIwPcw4OmYgX3sJD8AIvNHMawuQ9gE9Q1UqIWi0oVSejbJ7BIHgELV3Xs1ffjYgSQrrAzadK64v-oTukh2uOD-9-oL-6DCQ-liF8KcbNpcnMfylBEEJJNeWdLZ11-3hh8X2WKoCccymkLZiJVk1VQGCTx9N-Zi_OtK0N3FFLG5wRib4tMkXkUSKQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">PARTICIPATE IN NANOWRIMO</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><font size="6">Achieved:</font> <strong>OH YEAH!</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Bwahahaha! I think we all know the answer to this since I haven’t stopped talking about it for like two months! <strong>But yes, my 9th NaNo was a success!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cKntFp0XMqXTbCHIvJoGeji--G0V4rX9M6ib_0HSKMsik4dwkpd8rXgVmgPk2u5Ea_6_2HKcJmCW4bARk1JJirU3GvdWoIQK53h1Rk5id9j2NV0DSLN4mN95OtrUOq0044WhnUxo2iZJ9UIuVK2hTq8bCKDcHmY8_CEytHEnzjrNuohXDINTCGMsqDAtl6JcFKQz8HSUXaEf67rZ3_iLa3fR_e4PcSIq_aJt_9lvTUX4oaXYMsKEwu5vO3fUBMvxf2qbHMTfCgHifUprBrB1cZsxZattZgmrnn-OjmIjqTmxcJBcJSVOVlX5sw6yCJ6vXtTE3Ke8Wh0ho3atUX_tJAxRrkvUr__qhCCrGzbi1DOs9MR6fckjQtlKqY7mWJ8b6hKS5N6sKuliDZ7ZcSLoUA9-Y8DRT1CENO-h5hg2lFsLSzt0ufALAUcphXA3vAOv1fpbJQjAfDwRYMmeFb64usx4MWrdDGZxbwRO0DDs17tvNjx0ufENJbIjxktDSBVjGA4Sq3waAwwtMXlMru0-XTUgAldIwPcw4OmYgX3sJD8AIvNHMawuQ9gE9Q1UqIWi0oVSejbJ7BIHgELV3Xs1ffjYgSQrrAzadK64v-oTukh2uOD-9-oL-6DCQ-liF8KcbNpcnMfylBEEJJNeWdLZ11-3hh8X2WKoCccymkLZiJVk1VQGCTx9N-Zi_OtK0N3FFLG5wRib4tMkXkUSKQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">UNPLUG MORE</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><font size="6">Achieved:</font> <strong>*hides in shame*</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>*cricket, cricket* Errrr… <strong>Between editing BT, prepping for Realm Makers, and NaNoWriMo, I had a <em>lot</em> of stuff to do on the computer this year. Sooo yeah, I don’t think I unplugged all that much.</strong></p><strong>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jDqJXvX9cRUyYTjuwRzgGx2JejDgE1JyZsKYNJeqyz8b8wMYjc8M5i6VD8_ofMuua8b61D4zhHxFmGoAaJilZWJAADpM5O8vjkXtPd-ganY1WSEpN3DAxZZeiTBJO4EKrUgQNgyzbZ_iVQynbhNjlKkhqmibL4t7arYW781Auxukx3IyIWGtp6O2Tlp3bNCc0aHnynU8xYvEmSgtQmAbNVbbrBRPdGYyiVh6taQash_IzGI-Z2W1Fyn5BknPiWndrJGuxN7Tj-C6dEZC8kqHLdO5A58aXy2USnbEUa9Ldl4S1hacG7Gc2grbZtZCXRwKdSx80VV0KPaBuIb9M899hH6FrjmXYEXdUSatMTpxdDEVGwzGUWwvGYxNsacn4QDcrSS2s4Mh0wIE8cSa4sSvEsDgtG24XbJex9YtSoOEraGplg8ARncMxswlAZ88LI_Zkh3Ws9z_bSXoN8FYr-vCw1QiOg3vxl0tzqhpO8cYZ1r-bTaULFnfOU-lIO6h4p2g_O3JaUQ9WQTsMZ50HkOjAwYiQLUQE3zcP6EJ_F3GHdchDFgGi3V0V5vd-ARZSgXtze7FnztzQM_cGsoAS4tIyKrKiufR6p2yDUoAgLrGLwYyU_4PGZWPGFEFJ21skbc_KE6kIBDuLoanrFvSD8vriTJQ9IEdfAk-zHUYTrvfomwi4eAofQGZsZirMzLfShuu_qCOrAla8CzAj3PJQg=w500-h300-no" width="320" height="195"></p>
<p align="justify"><br></strong>ALTHOUGH. I do feel like I did a little better forcing myself to turn the computer off at night and go read or something. Not always <font size="2">(and certainly not during NaNo lolz)</font>, but I did try. <strong>I feel like I’m on the edge of creating good habits, even if I haven’t quite reached them yet.</strong> XD</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cKntFp0XMqXTbCHIvJoGeji--G0V4rX9M6ib_0HSKMsik4dwkpd8rXgVmgPk2u5Ea_6_2HKcJmCW4bARk1JJirU3GvdWoIQK53h1Rk5id9j2NV0DSLN4mN95OtrUOq0044WhnUxo2iZJ9UIuVK2hTq8bCKDcHmY8_CEytHEnzjrNuohXDINTCGMsqDAtl6JcFKQz8HSUXaEf67rZ3_iLa3fR_e4PcSIq_aJt_9lvTUX4oaXYMsKEwu5vO3fUBMvxf2qbHMTfCgHifUprBrB1cZsxZattZgmrnn-OjmIjqTmxcJBcJSVOVlX5sw6yCJ6vXtTE3Ke8Wh0ho3atUX_tJAxRrkvUr__qhCCrGzbi1DOs9MR6fckjQtlKqY7mWJ8b6hKS5N6sKuliDZ7ZcSLoUA9-Y8DRT1CENO-h5hg2lFsLSzt0ufALAUcphXA3vAOv1fpbJQjAfDwRYMmeFb64usx4MWrdDGZxbwRO0DDs17tvNjx0ufENJbIjxktDSBVjGA4Sq3waAwwtMXlMru0-XTUgAldIwPcw4OmYgX3sJD8AIvNHMawuQ9gE9Q1UqIWi0oVSejbJ7BIHgELV3Xs1ffjYgSQrrAzadK64v-oTukh2uOD-9-oL-6DCQ-liF8KcbNpcnMfylBEEJJNeWdLZ11-3hh8X2WKoCccymkLZiJVk1VQGCTx9N-Zi_OtK0N3FFLG5wRib4tMkXkUSKQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">ORGANIZE MY TIME</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><font size="6">Achieved:</font> <strong>A little!</strong></font></p><strong>
<p align="justify"><br>I feel like I <em>did</em> do better this year keeping up with things and staying organized.</strong> Not perfect in any form or fashion, but I got into the habit of making to-do lists every single day which helped me stay on track, and I set out certain tasks for each day (such as Thursdays I write my blog posts for next Monday, Tuesdays I stock up on book pictures for Instagram for the week, etc., etc.). These things helped a <em>lot.</em></p>
<p align="justify"><br>My organization skills could still use a mountain-sized load of work buuuut I did try! That counts for something, right?</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/cKntFp0XMqXTbCHIvJoGeji--G0V4rX9M6ib_0HSKMsik4dwkpd8rXgVmgPk2u5Ea_6_2HKcJmCW4bARk1JJirU3GvdWoIQK53h1Rk5id9j2NV0DSLN4mN95OtrUOq0044WhnUxo2iZJ9UIuVK2hTq8bCKDcHmY8_CEytHEnzjrNuohXDINTCGMsqDAtl6JcFKQz8HSUXaEf67rZ3_iLa3fR_e4PcSIq_aJt_9lvTUX4oaXYMsKEwu5vO3fUBMvxf2qbHMTfCgHifUprBrB1cZsxZattZgmrnn-OjmIjqTmxcJBcJSVOVlX5sw6yCJ6vXtTE3Ke8Wh0ho3atUX_tJAxRrkvUr__qhCCrGzbi1DOs9MR6fckjQtlKqY7mWJ8b6hKS5N6sKuliDZ7ZcSLoUA9-Y8DRT1CENO-h5hg2lFsLSzt0ufALAUcphXA3vAOv1fpbJQjAfDwRYMmeFb64usx4MWrdDGZxbwRO0DDs17tvNjx0ufENJbIjxktDSBVjGA4Sq3waAwwtMXlMru0-XTUgAldIwPcw4OmYgX3sJD8AIvNHMawuQ9gE9Q1UqIWi0oVSejbJ7BIHgELV3Xs1ffjYgSQrrAzadK64v-oTukh2uOD-9-oL-6DCQ-liF8KcbNpcnMfylBEEJJNeWdLZ11-3hh8X2WKoCccymkLZiJVk1VQGCTx9N-Zi_OtK0N3FFLG5wRib4tMkXkUSKQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">BE INTENTIONAL</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><font size="6">Achieved:</font> <strong>Yes, actually!</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>That was my word for 2018: <font size="5">Intentional.</font> Because, no matter how good my intentions may be, I’m the wooorst about never following through. This year I wanted to change that. <strong>I wanted to work on being more organized, work on reaching my goals of being published, work on doing hard things instead of taking the comfortable route. Did I do that this year? I think I did.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I really put effort into editing Burning Thorns, I saved up to go to Realm Makers, I got up the nerve to pitch my novel, I tried my best to stick to my 2018 goals. <strong>And, honestly, this is the first time I can remember where I <em>kept</em> to my goals.</strong> Because usually they all fizzle out by March. Eheh.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>There was so, so much more I could have done. I failed many, many, maaany times. But I did try to stay intentional, to keep stretching out of my comfort zone, and I feel all the better for it.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>There’s still so much I want to do and accomplish and keep reaching for, but I feel like I’m getting closer to my dreams. That I’m actually <em>doing</em> something about them instead of just talking about them. My greatest hope for next year is that I’ll keep stretching and stretching. This year good habits were made, and I learned a lot. Hopefully I can apply it all and go even further in 2019.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/c0XqnS8JhBtZVfjOPxV1t6x3_9F067z7MNtbd878o7pHcRaAu3oYoek3r1xNok0aQbAyr73Wy04Q3-48kRYCn4pg0cTQsP_Okq67s-VpSlEtFgMJs56rs-SK6LENZWw3Bn4k76rANxwU-HmOrX8lUMw8hljILWEP8ckgA9JsGUOOUF6syjwEtWSiC5VMji54FzBy05XbFSKYT9Fk_b8ePQ4tTDa5vxrcv_oiIhc1bCHo8xbKqV76ctGPtwH_nU0yxHyGbG2M1BP9t3Vq4LDuvSxoE8JvuL_8mFCy_onvPmrZKk1OoiYlIA42Vn0ewTK2K7vLGbtI5ys6wmXFl2khGi43at6YS1XzYBhmOAKQco9WD2cGDN_Km931AzJQ57J76PAGieR8bnkhMBuioqkCFFg-4l6TfD9AdZuuqRoKzaFSRj59GYmUl9CCpU0qCdny2qP3n9k6q5ZSUvGy1vPARF7HE8-plvGe3wu3ydfOd3vQ7_Ow-UST8-9biUAtb1vI_Pvg-eJjvpdUYQa0FRA4D9Frmjjt_FnKIYnQbovzrLU7D3Fn7UXQjmMgEa05q1LfSwuzn90XXNx22_YksY5Rh1mLhgKYcRklrsvZM2zhtSIuf_ckoF1_ojmlZGrh2FZnZwU84iTCGm6zI2UN9ED-_8ElYGHxZk9WYxjR-P8hCr9grBiwCgKqMAzopa7p_68qOev-J_Iq08HD0VtVFQ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And that was 2018. I feel like there’s so, so much more I could say about it, but to sum it up, <font size="5">it was a full year and a good year.</font></strong> Habits were formed, new experiences were had, things were accomplished, and blessings abounded even in the hard times. I look forward to seeing what God has in store for 2019.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Until then, I hope you all have the most amazing Christmas and a very, <em>very</em> happy new year! See you all in 2019! Aaahhhhh!!!!!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PRNJpM2sHt6mHqqminj2Vmf7Lnn3g8BRzIcSHG0Ih01JTjNs_aokwc04BTmNAJt5EeQNIzssOrMNwqsPW__OqwdU2YWoY679pLkjL8aiVGoQiGfB0y_q_87b59QaulRWvhOft8juEJs2EhewMq1YIpha9nJIztEIGuyukPaI1ceYdd_a1DRPY1XtUi68Ij7HoD63IKmXnR61n0YgaX1jy2f96tGQXcuknCvh19fK_KZfVP3eALR8WRFN6y8Rdl77CEYS3kxzWUZokCu0q3lArY96ntFRuq-Nr3sRLvOTguGpW_2w7LpSrb9gtUMxqdHApx7jdRlo3_U7-E6m0mSOwhoIJootadmyIvyGdRYK2Gdkv6_2JglV6giybI5fFSHk1koFWOjioXR_VwhrYpVwlhFpxnGGfACsNsgb6o8OGLyk-Z4XMzpceOcKrS6hvF6cMPVwSyrGUo95FHQyvpwzW0e3_OHH9-B1xFsf-Sgoo1NOaLRF0AUBeij1kvuNz4d3UIv9-iNUp_oTqDKw9yEJDsUFsfn043tuFW5_LWAJis2rhP-H02d_QUr9Uo7Ep4dgT1Hrb09qggcODKZyxOvnDCYjlSWMG8cAuLeYU0OL84ERX6y85McqtcL62oHtDJ6ZzvpGbBoyXT53q2671rU4Q1udCwfj5VjTKKVwbPD7_AQOsnoyJo7-MXGV8CT2ArV0eKg-RbKuhVUqN3NSjw=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="5">I want to know ALL THE THINGS. How was your 2018? What were some highlights? Did you discover any good books? What was your favorite thing about this year? And what are you most excited about come the new year? Tell me everything!</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><strong>Thank you all so, so, sooo much for constantly being an encouragement to me. YOU GUYS are one of my greatest blessings and made this year an utter delight. I’m so grateful for all of you, and do hope the coming year will be a beautiful one for you each. <3</strong></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!</font></p>
<p align="center"><font size="6"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/COiP-QQMHvtMKEyU3YYxRlqeuTEQ3CZ0DF5j3sqJjPKeclpx0T3yuf8L5obizoSuwQJ1eXGktJG53wBcAkGwX1DemdkwYDWRyp-uwy7GJ8ylaUgC26PMIydVVI6C7r-kdf8s_w7uv5h-U7LLy6Zlcd8xjLgALlfoUtsdDsufzzQfI7LxzSFjlf1EKu1gUpltoSWkQBLbAwI4AV64K8XeQwwB-Rhu_gj2Vgl3tG3DmUxD7nzf1jBEk45a46hT07BHl9o9QmSIsCrw9s-e-zyK-1JfQZ0a0BIRHeeo3sB9mNetd43gKvFdR0hvvMTRoKcsRKmVwGc2iSNFhoULumX3bUp8uupCXgG2aJEJhhrM7l9SRt2a23aHplpiV4NdCFzVZhuh9cAOFQRYCKNiVxbMGm0VjyK0n-TbLd0YVZKx-qWHnfKim1k8ySwSJK34J5o2hzjNVlCM8FIrRRkPevblz9M_5PrVZKWGQ9YNuuh0vQv7nSQNKOPnd75WyabuYoQmhYL2k12GJ7I3-fYZsi6pl1uJFd3HF8W_5JRMloN24A3ms051KZUxYgLn21WczUFBT8Tj0sczY0P1AumHtmJdYg44N7RzwFRLA8PgRRsFFcXBDXS5NBVECvdxyshQz00Zd4-ij5buKmM2T5rA2Jr6xH60R-w7rerdsK3FSqDQ-j1SHwhNjCS_3NoJOFk9u9gVv8mud1PQ4XzzuImJlQ=w853-h480-no" width="450" height="256"></font></font></p>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-72853346704643773492018-12-11T10:07:00.000-06:002018-12-11T10:07:24.364-06:00Know the Novel Part 3 - The Writing of Kings Bleed Gold {NaNoWriMo 2018}<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br> <img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5TlfHW9ePaZm85OrPQ2uOHiokC9bjuZFqPGh2yyE7KFeFf7GB7bjD7W-sJ_mqH9W7RBARSFXPZ4pbPAVRunUF-wCqlmUqgrnkD09utF4vF1J-HR8HxPuKsNElJDPhils53YAW8F4qWIg4MAloHUEXwWqOONpp12Pu7OalB0ofyD1Fx_3B5jimY8ayEnnCXiJ99Mo-DCtaNeLckzT3nVFvaGFBepwuXJPtpIHfYKTvD8yFUioJzYHY200gIUpgWdH8Q5b362HzrwHlXk0tFBgmFkGa9HySCEk2dDe_XTMPzemKuWPBFhOnO9VHA3kZ4Xjd8Cv27yoikxlZrHaxM4oyTln80fw2mP7c84R4d6iyDXWMTgoVBIxDzzjlFa9uZH9G8fPhPAqeBSbVU9P6d55cmD2M8H0P6nBFp5SHf1Uyj32Eg1n9T6lgJJxZvD9xDI638NPre_tCE5DrPLBMTKnqT2YxztrPxYbj-QCYYY4mqcW39bafNg9kFg0CmNZQN0nNUCTRJywsyV73UKIevG5gx0dySh_igGcB2qhbzPiqRTgD4QuUl_rUIRScExM9A15mYepqvdDVOjde297kwF9aSQLzSGPJDLvDPZi875hMst5-TJzoxlglDihMxiq8bZDZ675MN1H7Q0IIH3r4QZ_Q9G9Arpw_bnku_HMFGT78qQL_h3VAmoBVx3S7TkY4cbOwabwKaEPR9ibEDOoDg=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>Annnnd I am back to go ahead and answer the questions to my <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/12/know-novel-part-3-writing-and-beyond.html" target="_blank">Know the Novel linkup</a>, which I posted yesterday if you missed it. *wink, wink*</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I have news. Super excited, happy neeews…</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5">I FINISHED WRITING KINGS BLEED GOLD.</font></p>
<p align="center"><font size="5"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VYywJHVQDw3QADYP2fYqow6FJf8cofhz432L8NZWvM2kpeWIY5MPPSGd4fQJO_62zaxbi0xHbkC74uy_xaDavTITIhjhqq8or5LsJTiYCIOtwZw8hOFfLCcw8p4W6EqyktzZgm_ZrUp1gdZ5RI5TFsyQ2ih0XGvjx7X8IFF-6Qy5OC1vqPjhOTxLFRIF67ivKYV6Mui5rXaeFBcaoFePF5oRB-yAO8jpWYUtQzN3Vz90XPOLvu2Z3Y3WWs-ktZ3S5nzVHnNC8GdnwGtieGxolQ6986E0zPZdJV7GtEOGrnKXP_AgzkjhLXw-m-bvjKORLukuaVpZv4oC1-CXJvz_B7QZqb0_2GPPilZYNyL6ceMzTbTO2DJrc_czCynEw2eYWFa16feFGdG5AG1FhgQuCRONEp3ZrYN93pFfYLWd6gaXx0WDHcyS0UA0ap62469l1pGzRdEn2M1CcPo6y1VXJx0CbPU8Ja6R_79EuHJ5xSw1OJaynaPWe_cLIU9o3dJj4aqwQOqb3nGBdJnex2v-C240uzn7LcOuwyyBks0bzHWBf-sbW_PKTUnkXDzBstjEnvxkoZ2aQ9rBsN35BhxP-fu3VGw_t_pU4BUEJc1XdD5v_WFtw6tqp3KYjmTSR9cT6g3t8hOUpYlFxyCDMBabjzJoiZy6-zfvnLUB7kL1H-BYqwwxtLJJTcsIDw6E0KNLIJI_NEqg63rdy28I_g=w245-h190-no" width="300" height="235"></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Fiiinally. IT. IS. DONE. I mean, the first draft is done… It needs a total uber major rewrite but we’re not thinking about that right now because IT IS WRITTEN AND I AM SO RELIEVED. <strong>I feverishly kept writing through all this first week of December and Thursday night, December 6th, I made it to THE END.</strong> I may be a teeny tiny bit over enthused. But WHEW. I didn’t know if this beast was ever gonna get finished. Having to keep writing through some of December after non-stop writing alllll of November was, well, overwhelming. But I am stubborn and was determined to not stop until it was done! And strangely? All these last few days of writing went way better than almost any days during NaNo. GO FIGURE. I thiiink it may have been because I was writing super fast-paced, exciting climatic stuff, which always goes really fast for me. BUT STILL. If only writing had been so fast and easy during NaNo. *rolls eyes* Ah well, it’s finished and that’s what matters!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Annnd it ended up being 129,042 words.</strong> O_O Yeah. Just HOW? Because, if you’ll remember, this <em>was</em> gonna be a standalone but I decided to split the story into a duology or trilogy. And yet it still ended up being a 130k beast. WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME??? But I’m just happy to be done.<strong> I wrote 36 days in a row. Like…every single day for 36 days straight. I think that’s a record for me.</strong> Which may sound pathetic to some of you who write every single day but, sadly, I am not one of those magical writing fairies. Writing every day is nooot I habit I have, unfortunately, so I was pleased with my 36-day record. XD</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>ANYWAYS. Kings Bleed Gold is FINISHED. AND I AM SO HAPPY!!!! So to celebrate, I shall be doing my own linkup </strong><font size="3">(lolz)</font> <strong>and telling you guys allll about how the writing overall went!</strong> Woot, woot!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/12/know-novel-part-3-writing-and-beyond.html" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/scpZRLef1xB_EQqdFqWWiM5S75W_uA-EzmDqv_X5_G2LlfxQ77EoBEDb4vAYSu4zhKpZ7CsaAkGY6IiO8xIQyL8RSJsbpbXqfTGVjPogE3GbwDRNL50ZgfYxBS6UQmL8obEcp2CcbdbEPj8qAU7VXVEU9CjjewmUuNXpqmmrv_IYbQNcOv1b7INf2d4eBAfwDwGQkvaqrbT0n1j_x2qdScEUQN8zkQbAOIYbuLlNEAPeAbV4YH0vviCqDsbfRtHSZkoFJs0l_rV3akFNbiNcOMZTIDEENZL8tb3OPUXsblAp6078ZSjxek_urMpx0jaDMJCO4OnEUjR-GbXRNREZDksIAG3DXgM8dCsXf50Cl5O2IMIQJbLk4qva7dkzQ-9omaF4YIbmMMXAF6N1GAjhWXYAmff68WldRhjdyHyxHUXYMSjX46dUjNSoiqeLzd_rFmmd36z9nhxp6sG9F2ljsuKpbII1cBnB1-DhF1RSJRWDaFt8IA2m2ytq7zGI2VZkQG0YB23aCM1Tq0IkI5qh4o1Br-dwZoYjtFlSrEM4aOp8jD9f2zlnNRfdZU5BnbQkjTQf2ENKI_6mzjCLkvbvlBWDBlH_vkje5c99O37xj9BmACH453OZDT4BKFinNkZNhPo_l3Aan-87V7z2fMza8YI7VOr1FDHoxKNJiNh4oQlVi0DDx8jJzkeGmgdgbxJ1d1H7zunctQp6oopYvw=w1221-h915-no" width="450" height="338"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EyrF5FzZ7C9HetwaF1xRuX2zGzXV9kD3SpHUo6icwKsJZlW0kMlSwniynQsxeQJHw3I6-DtgFH-pbIPePAU6eQcL6gGhxmvsA9enRXQ4OkQHb2lHY26advsYwj2OkB0IJfJEgmg5CWnCtxpAyYXQiJHFfsApobk2zBxErL-UY23ar_0TWWyz55HL6Pgn6ugc1Xr64ZkPwscKTOadgjaz4RQHSJsvJTF5zv3MrJuX5fsR5SWopsUG-p8kyGs17f7iGyK3I9jmOxbIlTuZXchDr3hiLqNLP2t935xQfTMsbxs-R-VodAuJqcqsrFBDBS6MSeHdSwTaBRDuwzV1Ekws5RrnbDJVv-x1XneGfCYKVxmiQS61_-07klLPloReXp9KFpyzb8SyIPQMMB6a8CRUdxsvCoif3EmjSfBCpeCtCrnJ9Sv5WOImFVpTQleIjIix9zieuLGpEJGevzWOICAjKNJt_9U0tDU8uKCDFsbg4ij1lyVtMN2uB1SQfRm7ikcrYKGPNi0VNf9k2bL53mCHLwzBdVn9WfKKqkA8r_nPfIVwBVQ_TTjJjvEUrwsPn8j3ph8WM5gQaLs7lFuWsPoaLULIMzo4UhWFKIZ0NfL42zVAMVobC5jy1pJNRc7LvntIXz4BlbflapTPbA8QEGBNeQAQ5SlihbhqvpG-3WGaQwEBNHXAAw6r64G73QyOj2cj67TS4VpSZ5aZUlvFiQ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">THE WRITING OF<br>KINGS BLEED GOLD</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EyrF5FzZ7C9HetwaF1xRuX2zGzXV9kD3SpHUo6icwKsJZlW0kMlSwniynQsxeQJHw3I6-DtgFH-pbIPePAU6eQcL6gGhxmvsA9enRXQ4OkQHb2lHY26advsYwj2OkB0IJfJEgmg5CWnCtxpAyYXQiJHFfsApobk2zBxErL-UY23ar_0TWWyz55HL6Pgn6ugc1Xr64ZkPwscKTOadgjaz4RQHSJsvJTF5zv3MrJuX5fsR5SWopsUG-p8kyGs17f7iGyK3I9jmOxbIlTuZXchDr3hiLqNLP2t935xQfTMsbxs-R-VodAuJqcqsrFBDBS6MSeHdSwTaBRDuwzV1Ekws5RrnbDJVv-x1XneGfCYKVxmiQS61_-07klLPloReXp9KFpyzb8SyIPQMMB6a8CRUdxsvCoif3EmjSfBCpeCtCrnJ9Sv5WOImFVpTQleIjIix9zieuLGpEJGevzWOICAjKNJt_9U0tDU8uKCDFsbg4ij1lyVtMN2uB1SQfRm7ikcrYKGPNi0VNf9k2bL53mCHLwzBdVn9WfKKqkA8r_nPfIVwBVQ_TTjJjvEUrwsPn8j3ph8WM5gQaLs7lFuWsPoaLULIMzo4UhWFKIZ0NfL42zVAMVobC5jy1pJNRc7LvntIXz4BlbflapTPbA8QEGBNeQAQ5SlihbhqvpG-3WGaQwEBNHXAAw6r64G73QyOj2cj67TS4VpSZ5aZUlvFiQ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8-eUAP43iC9MvmV6S1teEpNz7EkKxOnQI-tQ3FDjYUh4uXnu-K53ePSnyzJFGpaYeEK1SV1H3yOxjWffE8bSKKgr5HX10M3CLm1wndwnbfb6XaOspHkhrHXySBhdBITbAapMghs6HR7T5Iastmbn75PkfR0ARW79DTPTpPqLJBW5aoSWVRMIxJXo4QTKGxGdskDsDBrjaVWCFd7zLFqJlbiI-kKhewoEltptTwNdEHKspxifaNpj6Dgt_UnynNhupvMZJ0f-xI1IjPdTmUd15CG33cTHbvcnoLzYJ9P2SnEiJ1zKh8I8F4bCi6_is_HAHdmMCR3c3WWmLS4vVrQnje7Y1PgSNnTOdcKKEgFoRakXXCt-z5VrqzQqKIaCuxLT6HgaWhdt1a1tai2QVpacgHXW_Aq4PJ_mTN8j09vld3q1Yrgb1VDpCa-GahBPOGpq41kl5akRzAKiHS0Ft_0ylJWXvB-EY_-noaOLYHQ5zE3ZNaN9V3jO_8laM_7QM4cPwiDU50TM_TdoErRJsh86PouRiPuEX4CIFXl9dwkEfH8kQlZmZSZ3jZoCgghlo4BLqZoEohaLJkhmGtJPn2NVf0SnlDYxdXSLl541kfiFfzmK2FYkg-A8hTKkj1Qw0fmgZES2Pa_22bXH12458VcKBJ-KVkUY0rMvhDDRBJd8I5570GeG0vw00yHKs-Vhj8EhrA7e6NddZJQs8CM-EA=s915-no" width="450" height="450"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QVDfZvnezL4ATWH0sPop9VZk29XGwKi4oylGBLwc9cOmTrdzFqs64RxlIFSVTNsp3oWvR3Wy5g6cUP9p5MdXyeuD85BR02uwt_a0FBfVydr2d4AJXE299QUhab6x2Q07nu7JAlWwMUh-yl3E7jHqyLXtpcjv4WVehiux5IMemZT4fz5ehMw6r_hRUUHoU6fKMiLnzD2AYmNGwJJUogZWZvheafx5tY10ECVBvEicQFgOkmJ61B7uXGrUZoVy6bclWspVl1NHuFIMOVm61lV-cCdbm94FyMTS3_T_nAXCQXqf0qpPCtVpyFaT1OXxVjj2J1X0jTyDtHZQDMwf-5GVOBTJR6d3RAKKUR6vY6V8y_PZefob6CZUuuhS70YrOwOzk1iFJ8ZuhOLLvcrEifVQ6F9tyNjmNi8CEDX1KuQfULUCEk57oqS6_LD5YxjRfzfVylfEUWm-FPEUSgLPS49TANtQaLs3K2V1LFp3_D4JCYZFq0V8JPNXTKVYzgw3uEnvFCVmTr8uh95GS_zb2RZDDAV_SkKCLIexo-cMg21FEgxwB7vKpmrKwDq_xk9rIT5PQDd0hnzbaeXs5Lnt3hJeHjeXcDc3_eZdT9gEdiNPMomrJiYdwTwEeQj3ASAqp3JPvlSWHi3qm5urub5z26ZmarX4BE2fkG7UzkWk2TYw3wpT2WZMwGLWyYw32Vokf9wT0VrQlIiRk_q2r-4jPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">1.) Firstly, how did writing this novel go all around?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HfuXCecRiuMYocNoahFNwaIem0g2HbQP4lOy8vVfGya7qio7Auxhea4WjXpgiD7ZM3mjoGwPDhBgOjQpuBQi8V23ZLz-t4AXj3vePYMKPyAeWEdDJeNtk1BBVYyGcSExNFZbnb2ofyinrKMHNh_7xGeRS0lUx3VOupbI4tR_shvW_nJRkPtJ2L-B600U-BY7b1v3NAZZPRlDQuGyma6nHvTn_ZZ_Pfi6HTnDB3WSoTioUTfAGI17vjPLkhSGbWce1hLTqNyqvzqjB35Ht114PWa-8eGHM8Om--iRtnqJYZ79pMcRaM67VKTn_rHYPifZJkAXmqrxho5KVqzSyoForElFuO8XvOtMobwOP7-mqi5-3ocf8AVS2JU19CCeGs1JrJxfjM60MKqw69LeJ8dcqZGHG33AA0SIaNV6VRPc9rAbwwzQjjEy5ecblOl1sRQqRHhJmL3dQqUWC6O0QBiIJxIPmm4O9FoftV0UrD9m-zlQoSeW53HXszULzpKz5KHOadwiI9Cv5J_fBG26XbQbVwjY25NwzEKIs3QUCXZirRYZZ-_PnXQkZpqiWCKqxVqipIUzUQrYifEJCv0NYMuep41tSNAQ1BFsnYZF60RemrTxRsDa40QDnk8vHAPB3PLXTAqWCt5ww0VFsCIQ8Ddb7juqpJWG1uNW-gHXywFoxOmPaGSy1FfzS4YojR8MJGyYsosIHmVPEBVEOBShTA=w496-h277-no" width="350" height="199"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Well, I think? We’ll pretend? <strong>There were some grueling days but, as with every NaNo, now that I look back at it, all I can think of is how fond I am of the story and how much I enjoyed being immersed in it for a month</strong>, instead of remembering all the maaany days I really just wanted to lay on the floor and whine instead of write. In fact, I already miss writing it, despite being so, SO ready to be done. Now I just feel kinda empty and desperately miss the characters… I tend to always do this when I finish a novel. Being a writer is an emotional ride. XD</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But yeah, <strong>overall I’d definitely say it went well.</strong> I actually sorta kinda think it’s one of my most polished NaNo novels. Which is hilarious, because it’s a MESS. But I was a liiiittle more careful with the writing than I usually am during NaNo. Still though, I suspect every single word needs rewriting. Eheh.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QVDfZvnezL4ATWH0sPop9VZk29XGwKi4oylGBLwc9cOmTrdzFqs64RxlIFSVTNsp3oWvR3Wy5g6cUP9p5MdXyeuD85BR02uwt_a0FBfVydr2d4AJXE299QUhab6x2Q07nu7JAlWwMUh-yl3E7jHqyLXtpcjv4WVehiux5IMemZT4fz5ehMw6r_hRUUHoU6fKMiLnzD2AYmNGwJJUogZWZvheafx5tY10ECVBvEicQFgOkmJ61B7uXGrUZoVy6bclWspVl1NHuFIMOVm61lV-cCdbm94FyMTS3_T_nAXCQXqf0qpPCtVpyFaT1OXxVjj2J1X0jTyDtHZQDMwf-5GVOBTJR6d3RAKKUR6vY6V8y_PZefob6CZUuuhS70YrOwOzk1iFJ8ZuhOLLvcrEifVQ6F9tyNjmNi8CEDX1KuQfULUCEk57oqS6_LD5YxjRfzfVylfEUWm-FPEUSgLPS49TANtQaLs3K2V1LFp3_D4JCYZFq0V8JPNXTKVYzgw3uEnvFCVmTr8uh95GS_zb2RZDDAV_SkKCLIexo-cMg21FEgxwB7vKpmrKwDq_xk9rIT5PQDd0hnzbaeXs5Lnt3hJeHjeXcDc3_eZdT9gEdiNPMomrJiYdwTwEeQj3ASAqp3JPvlSWHi3qm5urub5z26ZmarX4BE2fkG7UzkWk2TYw3wpT2WZMwGLWyYw32Vokf9wT0VrQlIiRk_q2r-4jPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">2.) Did it turn out like you expected or completely different? And how do you feel about the outcome?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>It actually stayed to my outline for the most part, thank goodness!<strong> Though there <em>were</em> a few things, once I started writing, that I realized weren’t going to work and had to be readjusted. I’m weird in that way. I’ll outline something that seems perfectly logical, then once I get in the story and write it, I see all the flaws and holes.</strong> Is that just me? I still think I’m a pantser at heart, despite hardcore outlining all my last novels for years now. I just see the story so much clearer once I write.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So the <em>events</em> all stayed along with the outline, but there was some backstory and certain aspects of like the world and magic system that shifted a bit as I wrote.</strong> But it all became much better than I had outlined, so that’s good! My stories tend to always tell me what should happen. XD Though some things I decided to change halfway through and just kept writing as if they had already happened so yeah, thank goodness editing is a thing.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Also, some of my characters’ motivations took me by complete surprise, mainly a couple of my antagonists.</strong> I thought I knew them, but apparently not???? I liked that though. It kept the process interesting for me.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QVDfZvnezL4ATWH0sPop9VZk29XGwKi4oylGBLwc9cOmTrdzFqs64RxlIFSVTNsp3oWvR3Wy5g6cUP9p5MdXyeuD85BR02uwt_a0FBfVydr2d4AJXE299QUhab6x2Q07nu7JAlWwMUh-yl3E7jHqyLXtpcjv4WVehiux5IMemZT4fz5ehMw6r_hRUUHoU6fKMiLnzD2AYmNGwJJUogZWZvheafx5tY10ECVBvEicQFgOkmJ61B7uXGrUZoVy6bclWspVl1NHuFIMOVm61lV-cCdbm94FyMTS3_T_nAXCQXqf0qpPCtVpyFaT1OXxVjj2J1X0jTyDtHZQDMwf-5GVOBTJR6d3RAKKUR6vY6V8y_PZefob6CZUuuhS70YrOwOzk1iFJ8ZuhOLLvcrEifVQ6F9tyNjmNi8CEDX1KuQfULUCEk57oqS6_LD5YxjRfzfVylfEUWm-FPEUSgLPS49TANtQaLs3K2V1LFp3_D4JCYZFq0V8JPNXTKVYzgw3uEnvFCVmTr8uh95GS_zb2RZDDAV_SkKCLIexo-cMg21FEgxwB7vKpmrKwDq_xk9rIT5PQDd0hnzbaeXs5Lnt3hJeHjeXcDc3_eZdT9gEdiNPMomrJiYdwTwEeQj3ASAqp3JPvlSWHi3qm5urub5z26ZmarX4BE2fkG7UzkWk2TYw3wpT2WZMwGLWyYw32Vokf9wT0VrQlIiRk_q2r-4jPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">3.) What aspect of the story did you love writing about the most? (Characters, plot, setting, prose, etc.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I mean, OBVIOUSLY the characters.</strong> Is that any surprise at all? No, no it is not. Making Midas go from a totally bratty, immature prince to a sacrificial hero got my all emotional. You know how I feel ‘bout them character arcs. Korinna and Syram also had some arcs as they overcame their fears and just alkdjflsjldkjfs I LOVED IT. Characters is seriously the reason I write. I’m obsessed.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Though, I have to say, all the magic and Midas turning things to gold was a super fun aspect to work with.</strong> I was worried it’d be stressful having a character who turns eeeverything to gold with a single touch of his skin. Like…how was that even going to <em>work?</em> But, actually? The challenge was a BLAST. The amount of things that he kept accidentally turning to gold were hilarious, and working with someone who could have no physical touch was very interesting and different. This is super bizarre, but I was in his head <em>so</em> much, that when I had other characters interact I sort of forgot they <em>could</em> touch??? Like, I’d have a characters squeeze another’s arm or hug or something and my first instinct was like, “Wait they can’t touch!” And then I realized…they’re not Midas. They’re not going to turn to gold. Touching is fine. Yeah, I don’t even know. But that was a rabbit trail. <font size="3">(Also, Midas wears special fairy-made clothes and gloves, if you’re wondering how he functions day-to-day.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>All that to say, working with a character who turns everything to gold was a very interesting challenge that I surprisingly liked.</strong> A lot.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/feSxA4n0sq_8qbMPKZ_-wGnkYdQPhWALUohMxwne6AWY1lHTtkB2NaSXfBdA0EpB6RJ9bXfrjUUPg4XEALwiGL0LS2td-LcxKNXskE9SH2IeW97mt1VqgH0U0NtmKwEUAtqg6baPhUeRmeHWlDDXLnvXPBwdPdXPmDDbBjkUFrowpYwxJF43FXOFut1LKNMIO7bUxosJEescEgh547ikWDM4W7edd-lCxCELRFu6Nf9sou-dGWbTrFdkUeKghPs-TFdlqtilFfwGFcs_HbfxGpXBsd0egoroMALebWIy8b2uDa2l0gpZLfPSav2znjeOK-9jgXvwNtTSBJ25NjilVhGFA0ARHy2UkJ4DQQP6JF8h6KUNulGLA2QaUw-5k9kZXq4J7PsQJqUNYFyWRaQ6bjslNQvxjYYUrPcM7dRUYmBV2UV5ANETQjdNH49z5dT64OxaST5nRqS7brE_QrGX52_y51ayka3ULoDjfOVxX_Of1jSZ3qT5EO0gZN2yA-UOoKRM3cw81ODXOFUoneJbpYOLKiTvZjU4XB2WkJ20SxPE6ur2g4JD4qeIhKwhOT88yH3V48wemEc_m_JeA25S8BmF9WZxQ2-fpHrD5PR5ZyJbIYD-Zqz3m4xXT3Ii3Ps1w4eFrR182L0WOQSYfRAwK7FJKIco8J7xxtQAsS4iNR0kvQKCDFClvF3A0hlKplE8gRfKuEwVVQ_UNoh5JQ=w435-h250-no" width="350" height="204"><font size="2">My Midas would be horrified to be depicted this way, oh my gracious. XDDD</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QVDfZvnezL4ATWH0sPop9VZk29XGwKi4oylGBLwc9cOmTrdzFqs64RxlIFSVTNsp3oWvR3Wy5g6cUP9p5MdXyeuD85BR02uwt_a0FBfVydr2d4AJXE299QUhab6x2Q07nu7JAlWwMUh-yl3E7jHqyLXtpcjv4WVehiux5IMemZT4fz5ehMw6r_hRUUHoU6fKMiLnzD2AYmNGwJJUogZWZvheafx5tY10ECVBvEicQFgOkmJ61B7uXGrUZoVy6bclWspVl1NHuFIMOVm61lV-cCdbm94FyMTS3_T_nAXCQXqf0qpPCtVpyFaT1OXxVjj2J1X0jTyDtHZQDMwf-5GVOBTJR6d3RAKKUR6vY6V8y_PZefob6CZUuuhS70YrOwOzk1iFJ8ZuhOLLvcrEifVQ6F9tyNjmNi8CEDX1KuQfULUCEk57oqS6_LD5YxjRfzfVylfEUWm-FPEUSgLPS49TANtQaLs3K2V1LFp3_D4JCYZFq0V8JPNXTKVYzgw3uEnvFCVmTr8uh95GS_zb2RZDDAV_SkKCLIexo-cMg21FEgxwB7vKpmrKwDq_xk9rIT5PQDd0hnzbaeXs5Lnt3hJeHjeXcDc3_eZdT9gEdiNPMomrJiYdwTwEeQj3ASAqp3JPvlSWHi3qm5urub5z26ZmarX4BE2fkG7UzkWk2TYw3wpT2WZMwGLWyYw32Vokf9wT0VrQlIiRk_q2r-4jPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">4.) How about your least favorite part?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Hmmm… <strong>I kind of had a pretty hard time figuring out how the dragons’ underground home worked and how to describe it all.</strong> I had a good picture in my head of everything, but getting it down on words was a whole other story.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QVDfZvnezL4ATWH0sPop9VZk29XGwKi4oylGBLwc9cOmTrdzFqs64RxlIFSVTNsp3oWvR3Wy5g6cUP9p5MdXyeuD85BR02uwt_a0FBfVydr2d4AJXE299QUhab6x2Q07nu7JAlWwMUh-yl3E7jHqyLXtpcjv4WVehiux5IMemZT4fz5ehMw6r_hRUUHoU6fKMiLnzD2AYmNGwJJUogZWZvheafx5tY10ECVBvEicQFgOkmJ61B7uXGrUZoVy6bclWspVl1NHuFIMOVm61lV-cCdbm94FyMTS3_T_nAXCQXqf0qpPCtVpyFaT1OXxVjj2J1X0jTyDtHZQDMwf-5GVOBTJR6d3RAKKUR6vY6V8y_PZefob6CZUuuhS70YrOwOzk1iFJ8ZuhOLLvcrEifVQ6F9tyNjmNi8CEDX1KuQfULUCEk57oqS6_LD5YxjRfzfVylfEUWm-FPEUSgLPS49TANtQaLs3K2V1LFp3_D4JCYZFq0V8JPNXTKVYzgw3uEnvFCVmTr8uh95GS_zb2RZDDAV_SkKCLIexo-cMg21FEgxwB7vKpmrKwDq_xk9rIT5PQDd0hnzbaeXs5Lnt3hJeHjeXcDc3_eZdT9gEdiNPMomrJiYdwTwEeQj3ASAqp3JPvlSWHi3qm5urub5z26ZmarX4BE2fkG7UzkWk2TYw3wpT2WZMwGLWyYw32Vokf9wT0VrQlIiRk_q2r-4jPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">5.) What do you feel like needs the most work?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>*points up* I think the whole underground world thing is gonna need some fleshing out. And, like I said earlier, I ended up changing some things halfway through the story, and I feel like there’s a plot hole or two involving the magic system and the villains’ plans that will need some more brainstorming and smoothing out. This whole plot just hurt my brain.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xfnrL4uU8K61ByP3WyiOUyN351PtGkGpq8bhz7iXn-ZY5FX22GExyFjADM81fdoZE3b5ACcCaY7rJjR47-JxnR_lSoSC_tBMXtxRhuwZWMO547OU3CMmW81NBaW6LTQJDa5izDQDueSzCOgWc-SvDXDsRamcQ-eWC1Js0Gm6sq9DmDPo5t_ueK-U7ZyY-QzXjmtRPQB-APVgCpfsLfYQBZ16laSEgXlorNii9W54GJgLrxTjho-ti_mqIRD1f5LwYEEX0hhHv0Rnvx8Hvb7yv9fFRAOHDpgI0SKOKyrbQr7codbWZF8WPvAwh8j8NOiR6hCwubjwMXU8Z0PJUOD-hKipaKfugwlip1A5j2_qX98QmvhW9rzJPCJrSAVcXKYzxyW4M45Ws9dEePejyY1v5AnN_veePjGhsWW2EonZvAeXEt58455nK8rYVJgMvL3zeRez3XkW-EzSImAh-EMgkD7IpP_oOV_a8aG7A463T1NKRXHnk5TzRUyK9KeawYgdF6Sf2H_XKjeUqZIZp6yMoijETBOpn8vfB-_SZ62IjdzyGHNa7DSqH_yUShlxwYWLiwFJxRV-NSXjBnERC5XUhpyEfeH85ISLHI3EKn0N33nVfcflFKwt-NuWCH_IU5zF4KbIEvbTEgVeuXFgR8HjXx1ehmwe2CrbQ6ZfC1q762U37-djK7V-VHKE9lhrkjRu1Cvr_RBNj7djZlpFQA=w245-h138-no" width="350" height="203"><font size="2">Me during the whole process of creating this book.</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QVDfZvnezL4ATWH0sPop9VZk29XGwKi4oylGBLwc9cOmTrdzFqs64RxlIFSVTNsp3oWvR3Wy5g6cUP9p5MdXyeuD85BR02uwt_a0FBfVydr2d4AJXE299QUhab6x2Q07nu7JAlWwMUh-yl3E7jHqyLXtpcjv4WVehiux5IMemZT4fz5ehMw6r_hRUUHoU6fKMiLnzD2AYmNGwJJUogZWZvheafx5tY10ECVBvEicQFgOkmJ61B7uXGrUZoVy6bclWspVl1NHuFIMOVm61lV-cCdbm94FyMTS3_T_nAXCQXqf0qpPCtVpyFaT1OXxVjj2J1X0jTyDtHZQDMwf-5GVOBTJR6d3RAKKUR6vY6V8y_PZefob6CZUuuhS70YrOwOzk1iFJ8ZuhOLLvcrEifVQ6F9tyNjmNi8CEDX1KuQfULUCEk57oqS6_LD5YxjRfzfVylfEUWm-FPEUSgLPS49TANtQaLs3K2V1LFp3_D4JCYZFq0V8JPNXTKVYzgw3uEnvFCVmTr8uh95GS_zb2RZDDAV_SkKCLIexo-cMg21FEgxwB7vKpmrKwDq_xk9rIT5PQDd0hnzbaeXs5Lnt3hJeHjeXcDc3_eZdT9gEdiNPMomrJiYdwTwEeQj3ASAqp3JPvlSWHi3qm5urub5z26ZmarX4BE2fkG7UzkWk2TYw3wpT2WZMwGLWyYw32Vokf9wT0VrQlIiRk_q2r-4jPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">6.) How do you feel about your characters now that the novel is done? Who’s your favorite? Least favorite? Anyone surprise you? Give us all the details!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>*see questions #3* Eheheheh. I really loved my bbys. I know I’ve been so subtle about it. *grins*</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>My favorite is Syram, obviously. </strong><font size="2">(#noshame)</font><strong> Although, truthfully, I loved them ALL in different ways.</strong> Even the antagonists because, like I said, they really surprised me with their motivations and their thought processes intrigued me greatly. <font size="2">(So vague I know, but #spoilers.)</font> <strong>I think ALL of the characters surprised me more so than any cast I’ve ever written. Usually I know my characters really well before writing the novel, and I <em>thought</em> I knew all of them but…wow. Apparently not. It was such a blast exploring them though.</strong> I ended up falling in love with them more and more the farther I got into the novel. I can’t really say I have a least favorite. Perhaps a certain villain or two, but they’re supposed to be unlikable so…</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I think my most favorite thing was the 3-way relationship between Midas, Korinna, and Syram.</strong> Midas learned to care about Korinna and Syram SO MUCH, and Korinna and Midas were constantly like “Syram is our child and must be protected at all times” despite him being a little older than them. Lol. And Korinna and Syram kept teaming up to get Reckless Midas out of all sorts of jams, while Midas and Syram had such a fun buddy-buddy relationship. They all had different dynamics with each other, but worked the best when they were all together and UGH. THEY MAKE ME HAPPY. And break my heart… *cough, cough*</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QVDfZvnezL4ATWH0sPop9VZk29XGwKi4oylGBLwc9cOmTrdzFqs64RxlIFSVTNsp3oWvR3Wy5g6cUP9p5MdXyeuD85BR02uwt_a0FBfVydr2d4AJXE299QUhab6x2Q07nu7JAlWwMUh-yl3E7jHqyLXtpcjv4WVehiux5IMemZT4fz5ehMw6r_hRUUHoU6fKMiLnzD2AYmNGwJJUogZWZvheafx5tY10ECVBvEicQFgOkmJ61B7uXGrUZoVy6bclWspVl1NHuFIMOVm61lV-cCdbm94FyMTS3_T_nAXCQXqf0qpPCtVpyFaT1OXxVjj2J1X0jTyDtHZQDMwf-5GVOBTJR6d3RAKKUR6vY6V8y_PZefob6CZUuuhS70YrOwOzk1iFJ8ZuhOLLvcrEifVQ6F9tyNjmNi8CEDX1KuQfULUCEk57oqS6_LD5YxjRfzfVylfEUWm-FPEUSgLPS49TANtQaLs3K2V1LFp3_D4JCYZFq0V8JPNXTKVYzgw3uEnvFCVmTr8uh95GS_zb2RZDDAV_SkKCLIexo-cMg21FEgxwB7vKpmrKwDq_xk9rIT5PQDd0hnzbaeXs5Lnt3hJeHjeXcDc3_eZdT9gEdiNPMomrJiYdwTwEeQj3ASAqp3JPvlSWHi3qm5urub5z26ZmarX4BE2fkG7UzkWk2TYw3wpT2WZMwGLWyYw32Vokf9wT0VrQlIiRk_q2r-4jPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">7.) What’s your next plan of action with this novel?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Let it sit in the dark recesses of my laptop for…a while.</strong> LOLZ. So exciting. But I have other projects clamoring for my attention now that it’s done. <strong>I 100% plan on coming back to it and giving it the big, major rewrite it deserves, because I seriously love this story idea and want to turn it into something readable.</strong> Buuut I don’t know when said rewrite will happen. For now I’m taking a writing break, then will be diving back into yet another round of edits for <em>Burning Thorns</em> come the new year. So yeah, poor <em>Kings Bleed Gold</em> will have to wait for a bit.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QVDfZvnezL4ATWH0sPop9VZk29XGwKi4oylGBLwc9cOmTrdzFqs64RxlIFSVTNsp3oWvR3Wy5g6cUP9p5MdXyeuD85BR02uwt_a0FBfVydr2d4AJXE299QUhab6x2Q07nu7JAlWwMUh-yl3E7jHqyLXtpcjv4WVehiux5IMemZT4fz5ehMw6r_hRUUHoU6fKMiLnzD2AYmNGwJJUogZWZvheafx5tY10ECVBvEicQFgOkmJ61B7uXGrUZoVy6bclWspVl1NHuFIMOVm61lV-cCdbm94FyMTS3_T_nAXCQXqf0qpPCtVpyFaT1OXxVjj2J1X0jTyDtHZQDMwf-5GVOBTJR6d3RAKKUR6vY6V8y_PZefob6CZUuuhS70YrOwOzk1iFJ8ZuhOLLvcrEifVQ6F9tyNjmNi8CEDX1KuQfULUCEk57oqS6_LD5YxjRfzfVylfEUWm-FPEUSgLPS49TANtQaLs3K2V1LFp3_D4JCYZFq0V8JPNXTKVYzgw3uEnvFCVmTr8uh95GS_zb2RZDDAV_SkKCLIexo-cMg21FEgxwB7vKpmrKwDq_xk9rIT5PQDd0hnzbaeXs5Lnt3hJeHjeXcDc3_eZdT9gEdiNPMomrJiYdwTwEeQj3ASAqp3JPvlSWHi3qm5urub5z26ZmarX4BE2fkG7UzkWk2TYw3wpT2WZMwGLWyYw32Vokf9wT0VrQlIiRk_q2r-4jPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">8.) If you could have your greatest dream realized for this novel, what would it be?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Well, my greatest dream for <em>all</em> my novels is to be traditionally published. I’d loooove that for this one.</strong> Though this one is a bit different in that, if I pursue publishing with it <font size="3">(which I hope to do one day!)</font>, I’d probably pitch it to the general market instead of the Christian market. Though, yes, naturally it’s got my worldviews in the themes, as anyone’s books would, it’s one of my few books that doesn’t have an outright God figure. And I think Christians should have more books in the general market. But that’s a post for a another day! Haha.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QVDfZvnezL4ATWH0sPop9VZk29XGwKi4oylGBLwc9cOmTrdzFqs64RxlIFSVTNsp3oWvR3Wy5g6cUP9p5MdXyeuD85BR02uwt_a0FBfVydr2d4AJXE299QUhab6x2Q07nu7JAlWwMUh-yl3E7jHqyLXtpcjv4WVehiux5IMemZT4fz5ehMw6r_hRUUHoU6fKMiLnzD2AYmNGwJJUogZWZvheafx5tY10ECVBvEicQFgOkmJ61B7uXGrUZoVy6bclWspVl1NHuFIMOVm61lV-cCdbm94FyMTS3_T_nAXCQXqf0qpPCtVpyFaT1OXxVjj2J1X0jTyDtHZQDMwf-5GVOBTJR6d3RAKKUR6vY6V8y_PZefob6CZUuuhS70YrOwOzk1iFJ8ZuhOLLvcrEifVQ6F9tyNjmNi8CEDX1KuQfULUCEk57oqS6_LD5YxjRfzfVylfEUWm-FPEUSgLPS49TANtQaLs3K2V1LFp3_D4JCYZFq0V8JPNXTKVYzgw3uEnvFCVmTr8uh95GS_zb2RZDDAV_SkKCLIexo-cMg21FEgxwB7vKpmrKwDq_xk9rIT5PQDd0hnzbaeXs5Lnt3hJeHjeXcDc3_eZdT9gEdiNPMomrJiYdwTwEeQj3ASAqp3JPvlSWHi3qm5urub5z26ZmarX4BE2fkG7UzkWk2TYw3wpT2WZMwGLWyYw32Vokf9wT0VrQlIiRk_q2r-4jPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">9.) Share a snippet of one of your most favorite scenes!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Wellllll, here’s Midas and Syram’s first ever meeting. I was <em>so</em> excited for this scene, because it was my first time to “officially” meet Syram as well. You can tell this is early on in the story from Midas’ bratty-ness. Hehe.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YBSWIWYGo_aYtYMXVmgsyup1DriA2tzEwz1VwowpmsuRSfQFbUSI8ViZtAAA6hTYuq2M51UwhJjVhdotBew9pUIXk_Wl02QOdjZrKSB_W3ZNBzSdQwIgIKhSIOkHfe3JLHqIS2N6Res1DoLhy6NuYMsPw4ylrlk61MkewMHXHo0kiIvmvBBZryrwWNdH7miqCUnodTn_zbbaQcixsNfcbekkdER6YQE19Ta-N4gvrFcmeBfyN_zojBvxQUvZcu0JqZpPzpKyjEmTmP9w1dJ7b6TKeRnt70xaB4_BLawVxZjNvHhqzzcEbs4VbsSyhDxc4yD1hAat0OL99R7oeDEw65bMuUuncqpknO7MPOp9zIClZEjslhjUyWNKf5_JKqP3BCVECq4IKhdrqE_PqYHcb6TKBWyLG-kM9ehNvLuqq9bwvU1Ze3td8ZvyX7zVfdmagBz0DvAcWv87yCEsfAANadXTkdLnHqR3shKCDoLMx2BgsS0fW6yCjzcQpgzCG3mlPzI0KaNL2P_-QD9566p-tj8r29DpkdTQBdQt3lWbgK8-JB4whcP0nNLgDZqZYI-w1coJ5Edho33c3d6gPRSOPpuz-nz095IwTPdA8BgVwspB46SUJjA5uGtIlMryAervykq6HfPofUddwyF3pEpUyCAWXz2RwUZmvczi9OV84M-eJ_0zDS9ZLBEBHCGT49Ck2R-nlFU4ziT4KAjWYA=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63"></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>Are you thirsty?”</p>
<p align="justify">Midas’ eyes snapped open. When had he even fallen asleep? He winced at the pounding in his head as he pulled it up. A face peered at him through the bars. Sucking in a breath, he leapt to his feet, but the sudden motion sent spikes of pain down his body. He hissed and pressed his gloved hand against the wall to balance himself.
<p align="justify">“Oh…dear. Sorry.”
<p align="justify">He focused again on the person outside his cell, and was in for another shock. It was one of the strangest people he had every seen. The man seemed to be about his age and height, but with a wild head of shockingly red hair stuffed under a rounded leather cap. His skin was neither fair nor dark, but almost ashen, though that could have been the dim lighting. Though it was his eyes that was the oddest of all. The large, almond-shaped, amber colored things practically glowed in the dark. There was a boyish playfulness to them but something else as well, though he couldn’t pinpoint what. This man was clearly foreign. Or…foreign to Chrysafel anyway.
<p align="justify">The man studied him for moment, his head cocked. “You’re the one with the golden touch?”
<p align="justify">He blinked. There was now gold woven all throughout the floor and walls of his cell, as well as the floor outside it. “I would think that’s rather obvious.”
<p align="justify">The redhead just grinned. “Would you turn something gold for me?”
<p align="justify">He narrowed his eyes. “Just because I’m in a cell and you’re not, doesn’t mean I’m some form of entertainment for you.”
<p align="justify">“No, of course not. I just thought you might would want some water.” He pulled up a water flask in his hand.
<p align="justify">At the sight, his dry tongue scraped over his cracked lips, but even still, he wasn’t pleased with the treatment he was receiving. “So you’re going to let this wounded, dehydrated man go thirsty unless he does something for you?”
<p align="justify">The other’s strange eyes flashed in what seemed to be pure surprise. “No, no. That’s not what I meant. I just…well… Never mind. Here.” He held the flask between the bars. “Take all of it. Free of charge.”
<p align="justify">He stared at the flask for a moment. What if this was some sort of trick of the dragons? He eyed the man again, who smiled at him and shook the flask like an eager child. Sighing, he took it with his gloved hand, thirst winning out. The water was cold and fresh and glorious. After multiple gulps, he poured the rest down his back and released a sigh of relief as it trickled down his wound and cleared the dirt. Once he had used up every last drop, he handed it back to the man.
<p align="justify">“Water does not turn to gold when it touches you?”
<p align="justify">“No, liquid never does. Thank the heavens.” He grimaced. “Can you imagine never being able to take a bath?”
<p align="justify">Mischief gleamed in the man’s eyes. “Well, truthfully, that’s why I asked. The way you look and smell—doesn’t seem like you’ve bathed in years.”
<p align="justify">He opened his mouth to retort, but then looked down at his bloodied, dirt-caked clothes. Maybe it was the relief of the water or the exhaustion or just the completely absurdity of everything, but a laugh escaped him. “You have a point.” Now feeling far more clear-headed, he softened up to the person. “Thank you for the water, by the way. I…suppose it wouldn’t hurt for me to turn just one thing gold for you, since you did bring me water.”
<p align="justify">The man’s face broke into pure delight and he dug into his stained, threadbare trousers and pulled out a rough rock with a short point.
<p align="justify">Midas frowned at the thing. “That’s what you want gold?”
<p align="justify">He nodded enthusiastically.
<p align="justify">Shrugging, he reached out his exposed hand. The man dropped the rock into it and his eyes sparked in awe as the rock transformed to pure gold in a matter of seconds. Slowly, he pinched it between two fingers, careful to not touch Midas’ hand, and then held it up to examine it closely.
<p align="justify">“It’s perfect!”
<p align="justify">Despite himself, Midas couldn’t stop a chuckle escaping his lips. “You’d think I’d be pretty used to the sight of gold by now, but honestly, I never get tired of it.” </p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> <p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QVDfZvnezL4ATWH0sPop9VZk29XGwKi4oylGBLwc9cOmTrdzFqs64RxlIFSVTNsp3oWvR3Wy5g6cUP9p5MdXyeuD85BR02uwt_a0FBfVydr2d4AJXE299QUhab6x2Q07nu7JAlWwMUh-yl3E7jHqyLXtpcjv4WVehiux5IMemZT4fz5ehMw6r_hRUUHoU6fKMiLnzD2AYmNGwJJUogZWZvheafx5tY10ECVBvEicQFgOkmJ61B7uXGrUZoVy6bclWspVl1NHuFIMOVm61lV-cCdbm94FyMTS3_T_nAXCQXqf0qpPCtVpyFaT1OXxVjj2J1X0jTyDtHZQDMwf-5GVOBTJR6d3RAKKUR6vY6V8y_PZefob6CZUuuhS70YrOwOzk1iFJ8ZuhOLLvcrEifVQ6F9tyNjmNi8CEDX1KuQfULUCEk57oqS6_LD5YxjRfzfVylfEUWm-FPEUSgLPS49TANtQaLs3K2V1LFp3_D4JCYZFq0V8JPNXTKVYzgw3uEnvFCVmTr8uh95GS_zb2RZDDAV_SkKCLIexo-cMg21FEgxwB7vKpmrKwDq_xk9rIT5PQDd0hnzbaeXs5Lnt3hJeHjeXcDc3_eZdT9gEdiNPMomrJiYdwTwEeQj3ASAqp3JPvlSWHi3qm5urub5z26ZmarX4BE2fkG7UzkWk2TYw3wpT2WZMwGLWyYw32Vokf9wT0VrQlIiRk_q2r-4jPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118">
<p align="center"><font size="7">10.) Did you glean any new writing and/or life lessons from writing this novel?</font>
<p align="justify"><br>Oh goodness, <strong>I feel like I learn something new about my writing and myself with every single book.</strong> Which is why I love doing NaNo. Because even though it always ends in a ridiculously messy draft that will probably need to be completely rewritten, I’ve grown and learned <em>so much</em> about writing through all my years of NaNo-ing.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I already mentioned in <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/12/nanowrimo-2018-thoughts-stats-and.html" target="_blank">my after NaNo post</a> last week that writing such a dark book in the span of 30 days kinda depressed me. My heavier books miiight should be saved for non-NaNo months, when I’m writing slower.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Another huge thing that struck me was a bit of a surprise. As I’ve said before, I used to be a hardcore pantser, but these days outline my novels to excruciating levels. But, as I was writing this, the few times I ended up having to pants a scene because someone’s motivations and/or backstories decided to change on me, it ended up being <em>way</em> better than anything I plotted out. That got me thinking to the last book I fully pantsed<font size="3"> (which was allll the way back in 2014 <font size="2">yeah</font> o.o)<font size="4">,</font> </font>and how well the plot unfolded. And it hit me: <strong>I think my stories turn out better when they can organically come together, instead of me forcefully trying to come up with a full plot in like a month.</strong></p><strong>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/L9iLomgndXrEzlTqOOMqey-aKKgwc4IIs6eXUAMNuESKtxzqlVMK1ltHWfIIjEyuK9oCrqllFJQBnC152fQJOPKK5oR6gntNqTdwcaCejICWysEMkgVYZoN2SyhHovFCOkGnpK0c5YuQo3Z0Sovg0WqgPpwGnp1AqP78aLzA4qVxfSrT6EPOsFtCStHJu5CCWWATZkNEAF1dWKpo-zAbCTTKFZw54LjdQQad1kbwsvlXTAmJuAHYubxxbcpW6fPSj0wT0K9D26QoRQrLYHAYQQKMwHV1c46oTnx_qKrT6TMItv2t-sRtmgcI5ZU_I9iA1eKF29Js-1g-3C2CmB3lyqJo8-JR5vF9ubLd4PZabXiUM2akEPJEj79LntKCe_0453xrY7c599yjP59xFwbTPjBeuleJv9SilJLOXIwxkVtofPbg4gm9zQwDuGOrCbqEsTbBj_II3UMYeeN7gfSURVjsE_CcSEXszcUFfpH94mi-fcQxp8JH8iFUyvt4QzqBB9C75tWld7WXVWMonDmujoXDiPTeqNBfSMnkENrQ8TDAFkPOWuRh8nH3xC7MulK5PFXbE7IyfuuPD7Fo0mquJLgKm8S5a5cFdaXATFYo4TVmP8p0gWlaNk7BAy25zI7HTUDiQ3qndcv5mJrPaqB4I9_tw-ahIQWyBtPjvV-2OKqiXQXIXwLPQS_RYPgM1IlRARnbQbn43oSrM3GqGA=w500-h230-no" width="300" height="141"></strong><font size="2">Me plotting.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>What this means for my future novels… I don’t know. <strong>My outlines are my lifelines for NaNo novels, so I still may use them during NaNo. Buuut I might should try to be a little more loose with them, and perhaps attempt a bit of pantsing again and see what happens.</strong> I rather miss pantsing, honestly, even though the idea kind of scares me because, again, outline = lifeline because it helps me not run down rabbit trails and chase random subplots that lead nowhere <font size="3">(which deeefinitely happens while pantsing, for me at least)</font>. So I don’t know. It’s something I’m pondering right now.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I feel like there were a dozen other little lessons I learned while writing, because there always are, but I’d say that was the big epiphany for this novel. I always have at least one with each story. XD Writing is an adventure for sure!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EyrF5FzZ7C9HetwaF1xRuX2zGzXV9kD3SpHUo6icwKsJZlW0kMlSwniynQsxeQJHw3I6-DtgFH-pbIPePAU6eQcL6gGhxmvsA9enRXQ4OkQHb2lHY26advsYwj2OkB0IJfJEgmg5CWnCtxpAyYXQiJHFfsApobk2zBxErL-UY23ar_0TWWyz55HL6Pgn6ugc1Xr64ZkPwscKTOadgjaz4RQHSJsvJTF5zv3MrJuX5fsR5SWopsUG-p8kyGs17f7iGyK3I9jmOxbIlTuZXchDr3hiLqNLP2t935xQfTMsbxs-R-VodAuJqcqsrFBDBS6MSeHdSwTaBRDuwzV1Ekws5RrnbDJVv-x1XneGfCYKVxmiQS61_-07klLPloReXp9KFpyzb8SyIPQMMB6a8CRUdxsvCoif3EmjSfBCpeCtCrnJ9Sv5WOImFVpTQleIjIix9zieuLGpEJGevzWOICAjKNJt_9U0tDU8uKCDFsbg4ij1lyVtMN2uB1SQfRm7ikcrYKGPNi0VNf9k2bL53mCHLwzBdVn9WfKKqkA8r_nPfIVwBVQ_TTjJjvEUrwsPn8j3ph8WM5gQaLs7lFuWsPoaLULIMzo4UhWFKIZ0NfL42zVAMVobC5jy1pJNRc7LvntIXz4BlbflapTPbA8QEGBNeQAQ5SlihbhqvpG-3WGaQwEBNHXAAw6r64G73QyOj2cj67TS4VpSZ5aZUlvFiQ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And here we come to The End. Because…I think I may actually be done blabbering about NaNo and Kings Bleed Gold.</strong> :O I’ve only blogged nonstop about them for the past 2 months. *COUGH* You gotta love NaNo season. *grins*</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But, well, I really <em>do</em> love NaNo season. It’s such an exciting, crazy time, and it makes it a thousand times better sharing with friends. So THANK YOU for putting up with all my crazed NaNo babbles and repeated talk of KBG. It’s been a wild ride, guys. But WE MADE IT!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vQoyw0oGDKOZsouy9KhP-YPmi4TV3q4pMbeLm8Dl7QNCPmq3QAGqDWoYZzgtIBuzHvR_SsgW_Wz2TuKLF15iC__O9qicCM_cBolB-KkG0coXhZiR02kVbswo_MpbVqcKhbi-sBN5TbeOHixHMGDgFdH5u9qvooX6UENZrhVR8nwq3lKEnqoYPhhZagAogxL4Clx0zPjM_lyGAwakRNJmEPTEscp7O3G_qO4UvugIT6Y8thQhz8My6RdJSiagY8Mh_S-pthFcR4pWsHFmhKffU_ycIau4soY3Cyn052xyJ7ltKg_Fc2jlOALy2OrihsRxKw6RAENBk1Q3Zbx_EY200AujshTV6zA_hJQ_gOohZOpxsPHKXnH0y5BPWc2WDNyI-0fd6IlDrwDKfgktNSxMlxPbGZ_3N8sLAG0-Er0mekfvCxuBmljW-s1Csk9GRYE-qzcTo4BRXwb5GQ4kwY3Lct5ikleJTL46ACZgyR3FoQC-A0wdzZmivLkoPw57645lfpHsIhaFWPisxUJ5NQ-DcrvNifIlONh4eZilliVbp-a8l0Nxrd3OZsmx7EBMTkWdBu3_AGHbMvu1BSq5L6kphhkMtlW4Vy07ma7-Mc12LmD_ifrOfahkm59ikTT8dbJBnup0-JPp3eTRcctLpdwzgryf724cC9Oc2k1MCegZURq4mUjKWfqYTs1DaIosqVs8hsrtoAy19vQWQq_abg=w300-h169-no" width="350" height="202"></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>NaNo is over, I’ve officially finished KBG, and now I’m allllll set to do all the Christmas-y things, have a refreshing writing break, and enjoy this magical month. I’M EXCITED!</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5">Don’t forgot you can answer these questions and join the linkup yourself <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/12/know-novel-part-3-writing-and-beyond.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>!!!</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YBSWIWYGo_aYtYMXVmgsyup1DriA2tzEwz1VwowpmsuRSfQFbUSI8ViZtAAA6hTYuq2M51UwhJjVhdotBew9pUIXk_Wl02QOdjZrKSB_W3ZNBzSdQwIgIKhSIOkHfe3JLHqIS2N6Res1DoLhy6NuYMsPw4ylrlk61MkewMHXHo0kiIvmvBBZryrwWNdH7miqCUnodTn_zbbaQcixsNfcbekkdER6YQE19Ta-N4gvrFcmeBfyN_zojBvxQUvZcu0JqZpPzpKyjEmTmP9w1dJ7b6TKeRnt70xaB4_BLawVxZjNvHhqzzcEbs4VbsSyhDxc4yD1hAat0OL99R7oeDEw65bMuUuncqpknO7MPOp9zIClZEjslhjUyWNKf5_JKqP3BCVECq4IKhdrqE_PqYHcb6TKBWyLG-kM9ehNvLuqq9bwvU1Ze3td8ZvyX7zVfdmagBz0DvAcWv87yCEsfAANadXTkdLnHqR3shKCDoLMx2BgsS0fW6yCjzcQpgzCG3mlPzI0KaNL2P_-QD9566p-tj8r29DpkdTQBdQt3lWbgK8-JB4whcP0nNLgDZqZYI-w1coJ5Edho33c3d6gPRSOPpuz-nz095IwTPdA8BgVwspB46SUJjA5uGtIlMryAervykq6HfPofUddwyF3pEpUyCAWXz2RwUZmvczi9OV84M-eJ_0zDS9ZLBEBHCGT49Ck2R-nlFU4ziT4KAjWYA=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="5">Are you relieved I’m finally done with all my NaNo talk? <font size="3">Bwahahaha.</font> Okay, but really, who’s excited that it’s Christmas time? <font size="3">(Meeeee!)</font> What’s your plans for the month? Anyone still writing? Or are you taking a break for the holidays? </font></font><font size="3">(If you need me I’ll be over here reading and watching movies and eating Christmas cookies.)</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-71477992060167448262018-12-10T10:24:00.000-06:002018-12-10T10:24:12.105-06:00Know the Novel Part 3 - Writing and Beyond {A Writers Linkup}<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/epf-h0d2X2z6Bql6DFbI9I4RUNNKeuQ8HTSfvbcVJBvTQfJveHeByMyRSipcDAlIj1mE9jDcG_mHWQl72hq6hX0pgpU2Ubj4SRUbE5MbLtpx1j8kAw2dk353Tce9iBk23yTF8cTTw8W2w79zDLeXEyhinfvKLgjee6R9o-Vhn7k8RyEtwdSUvUjxLsPgOFg7rxB_0SayDunIBj8KpgJKpvSUh90RLmMH9VFHB_glG4_C4SRcROegc2PKi2cqnpJDliSp0qYUUG-qiZd6uEULwRKeWsbqizwboSss9CEKMT3ELp5gzWMiybc7gS1tkyrSxiIpTrrtPiIw3DWmuA5gKxFFUY5IS5ar0Su9EliDf7144tlI0hwfvuB6KauX2U_5QcCLjhFRCywOosg7mFxyzcQumDdW0X5fSkUC46XFosnzwkBIyP5K6Uct1KCrAlPawS5HfQ1M8xHDdDvN5Rrcv9jMPjGpYN1ceoYqbzja6GEX02fOV1if1NdIHtwAkYE8StkviITBCijSDvDZvHARz0gy-ywwY2fDaRA9quqbYrtQ3dB6apBvIeW53XnTIRhby0yPEYCnvHMBJg5MU__qiTx30kd9F8280bNiFAzKBWDoeo-3Hdez3qFIJKOcr5bZvplsSkj00lPQunz_SaEqK9Re-1KeMm-wHAjL0mN2TXz-f_nth2L9yR1Rr8bpQLKyw1PSP08fm0ueuqYTiA=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>IT. IS. HEEEERE! The 3rd and FINAL installment of my 3-part writers linkup <em>Know the Novel</em>. And I’m super excited about this one!</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>It is officially December (WUT???), and a ton of us have just finished NaNoWriMo and have new novels under our belts (and probably some wild stories about writing them to go with it), and thus <strong>this last part of Know the Novel is alllll about how writing the WIP went and what our next plan of action is.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>If you missed any of the parts and have no clue what I’m talking about, here’s all the details!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jAxFY9LC_BejsClQcjuvnU2pvdov_8HKx1Hk0fn9SdfLHIGCuJMUTwRAQYAnzhEBPDNpoMvW_W-8kc6cxZlPZwcQc_6wEc3VckFgM8eT_skZMFcFFgLrrcgMaYnuoZmx_bNql98UrrjUOSiEk3SkU0CEjqvzRLf3Co1YLdsbIgkZ_epE10kjKJVGhxMsgH6YKx40_hthbpIceH0IZruQ31UpVVOXiiReDVqAEECufH7AA9AjiJ_qSCiB3Jrc4xb4muJ35PyFX0V8AhN5tP8le3YqnDstTc8YSIfPimI2sMnMdgbr0qGC5jSCQXi42CXSV0F8U5XpJ-I2_LAqKBHYUzLoJI9wR17ELW8JGRjBWJ6kQQlZA8iu4KnDBj1lwdj1KUy31Va-Rs_oE4HLpIxaFulGpfryHi-CSkbBpwU_svojYvwGa2orQXn8miiPKFujlGbZRfFy2DHJBJt06aZN_OJajQA9xLKk_waQfRZFmB95owRHGRPWBG5YPj2TylUW-6rtj8b-2juW1HUnihF_TWHRMVdCeD-IiQJbMjSobfe2X69ri4HHArTK1Nej8GlIp5Zdr8JJ1oDf2O0Xkh8BDJflBt7EsStSziDxPNPYinTlf6QDFP7b1DGJcyqjDvDo-HEEuRXsa7GPQFBwyyygtg4pMqwiGI8raKyCI8MS5IaYXMUCvX_EWAfanihve5XCKBgEWOArJ47SURbF3A=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">THE INFO</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="4">Know the Novel is a 3-part linkup series, one for each of these last three months of the year. Each one will feature ten questions you can answer on your own blog (or anywhere else on social media if you’d like!). The questions will be focusing on different parts of the novel/your writing.</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5">It goes as followed:</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="6">October</font></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Part One: Introductory</font></strong> <font size="4">– These questions were centered on you telling us all about your novel and giving the fun, juicy details. And GOOD GRIEF, do you guys have some epic ideas. I looooved reading about them! Do </font><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/know-novel-part-1-introductory-new.html" target="_blank"><font size="4">check out all the links</font></a><font size="4"> because there’s some seriously awesome stories being created out there.</font></div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="6">November</font></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><font size="5"><strong>Part Two: Within the WIP</strong></font><font size="4"> –</font> <font size="4">This one focused on how the writing was going, what problems and victories you experienced, your writing process, etc. Basically all the fun behind the scenes writing things! We had another <em>fantastic</em> turn out with this one! Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to go and comment on everyone’s posts like with part 1 because, well, #NaNoWriMo. BUT I was thrilled seeing all the links come in. You can go <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/11/know-novel-part-2-within-wip-writers.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> to see everyone’s posts.</font></div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="6">December</font></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Part Three: Writing and Beyond</font></strong><font size="4"> –</font> <font size="4">AND HERE WE ARE. This last part’s questions are all about how the writing went overall and what’s next! EXCITING.</font></div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="4">The gist of it is, I throw ten novel/writing-related questions your way each month, and you can answer them on your own blog.</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="4">Though I am doing this during NaNo season since, ya know, a lot of us were participating in NaNo, <strong>you DO NOT have to be doing NaNoWriMo to participate. You can answer these questions for <em>any</em> WIP you have. And you DID NOT have to participate in parts 1 or 2 to do this one.</strong> It’s all just for fun! There are basically no rules. Plus I <em>love</em> seeing what all my writer frens are working on. So share away!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="4"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jAxFY9LC_BejsClQcjuvnU2pvdov_8HKx1Hk0fn9SdfLHIGCuJMUTwRAQYAnzhEBPDNpoMvW_W-8kc6cxZlPZwcQc_6wEc3VckFgM8eT_skZMFcFFgLrrcgMaYnuoZmx_bNql98UrrjUOSiEk3SkU0CEjqvzRLf3Co1YLdsbIgkZ_epE10kjKJVGhxMsgH6YKx40_hthbpIceH0IZruQ31UpVVOXiiReDVqAEECufH7AA9AjiJ_qSCiB3Jrc4xb4muJ35PyFX0V8AhN5tP8le3YqnDstTc8YSIfPimI2sMnMdgbr0qGC5jSCQXi42CXSV0F8U5XpJ-I2_LAqKBHYUzLoJI9wR17ELW8JGRjBWJ6kQQlZA8iu4KnDBj1lwdj1KUy31Va-Rs_oE4HLpIxaFulGpfryHi-CSkbBpwU_svojYvwGa2orQXn8miiPKFujlGbZRfFy2DHJBJt06aZN_OJajQA9xLKk_waQfRZFmB95owRHGRPWBG5YPj2TylUW-6rtj8b-2juW1HUnihF_TWHRMVdCeD-IiQJbMjSobfe2X69ri4HHArTK1Nej8GlIp5Zdr8JJ1oDf2O0Xkh8BDJflBt7EsStSziDxPNPYinTlf6QDFP7b1DGJcyqjDvDo-HEEuRXsa7GPQFBwyyygtg4pMqwiGI8raKyCI8MS5IaYXMUCvX_EWAfanihve5XCKBgEWOArJ47SURbF3A=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>Onward to the last set of questions!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dVx8GBb7O8G2BnvDjWYPFsyk2FnNo2zOSQlwaD8xVDJYqKotPljN9iERkzP8odukqOdpoil37DideFgucl2m3xGDLvTimOd8RwGA4qTsNoSmLbu93GzOij80rQr1CnUK7rg_WU-bl-C6jocGy5jxwX_RA4iAD8yu8o4yBewGZFWzHkY5ZZEpktjOqAJ6i6wREvgtFgHIiMww9-I27eyPSpu0uyoAs2nwE2ouawC0jsbw8gvPD0DrrTA9fCGBgkuGF0gb4nfxZaF2hYTfd7sgyBX0UdL_VE2xmSYnux-rTm3ogQiOcY4ps-ICTfW4fVMjLCJDfVhv1MGTeh-Ixe-eYbJOv5hO2N_pvFW9Rjq2RqxxGup2lvG54LOyXLsyJPRP8uZBfrkUXfxHtMOQwj2if-1LJxq9AoBWVGK3Tf4aD4oy8PpzyKeoFn09FFXcvrKhbuZKoqX4B2SHBcgmRKTmX2VkP4WD61O-hFcv7ja06FxmlSwkmMWmzS7D5Cl1Atqs57EzOhC5yxM4LEgBMXGJ2r_c5P_45hrlqmV3McfgeOdrezTOFeOLaoWbPRvijnOz0KvED_PN2xGYFFULCTEslYBYxy4u2aSvTi3apkssf6PYv79ZWqT_BBWTuh0lqXPXcUMUGRw_MsbDGQfqx6iqB0u2dGeDtHnJifnmQf15ERbtdZPa2ya8LygTgzaSOd6-dXExf9pqP-g4QtYkNg=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101">
<p align="center"><font size="7">KNOW THE NOVEL PART THREE:<br></font><font size="7">WRITING AND BEYOND!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dVx8GBb7O8G2BnvDjWYPFsyk2FnNo2zOSQlwaD8xVDJYqKotPljN9iERkzP8odukqOdpoil37DideFgucl2m3xGDLvTimOd8RwGA4qTsNoSmLbu93GzOij80rQr1CnUK7rg_WU-bl-C6jocGy5jxwX_RA4iAD8yu8o4yBewGZFWzHkY5ZZEpktjOqAJ6i6wREvgtFgHIiMww9-I27eyPSpu0uyoAs2nwE2ouawC0jsbw8gvPD0DrrTA9fCGBgkuGF0gb4nfxZaF2hYTfd7sgyBX0UdL_VE2xmSYnux-rTm3ogQiOcY4ps-ICTfW4fVMjLCJDfVhv1MGTeh-Ixe-eYbJOv5hO2N_pvFW9Rjq2RqxxGup2lvG54LOyXLsyJPRP8uZBfrkUXfxHtMOQwj2if-1LJxq9AoBWVGK3Tf4aD4oy8PpzyKeoFn09FFXcvrKhbuZKoqX4B2SHBcgmRKTmX2VkP4WD61O-hFcv7ja06FxmlSwkmMWmzS7D5Cl1Atqs57EzOhC5yxM4LEgBMXGJ2r_c5P_45hrlqmV3McfgeOdrezTOFeOLaoWbPRvijnOz0KvED_PN2xGYFFULCTEslYBYxy4u2aSvTi3apkssf6PYv79ZWqT_BBWTuh0lqXPXcUMUGRw_MsbDGQfqx6iqB0u2dGeDtHnJifnmQf15ERbtdZPa2ya8LygTgzaSOd6-dXExf9pqP-g4QtYkNg=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/epf-h0d2X2z6Bql6DFbI9I4RUNNKeuQ8HTSfvbcVJBvTQfJveHeByMyRSipcDAlIj1mE9jDcG_mHWQl72hq6hX0pgpU2Ubj4SRUbE5MbLtpx1j8kAw2dk353Tce9iBk23yTF8cTTw8W2w79zDLeXEyhinfvKLgjee6R9o-Vhn7k8RyEtwdSUvUjxLsPgOFg7rxB_0SayDunIBj8KpgJKpvSUh90RLmMH9VFHB_glG4_C4SRcROegc2PKi2cqnpJDliSp0qYUUG-qiZd6uEULwRKeWsbqizwboSss9CEKMT3ELp5gzWMiybc7gS1tkyrSxiIpTrrtPiIw3DWmuA5gKxFFUY5IS5ar0Su9EliDf7144tlI0hwfvuB6KauX2U_5QcCLjhFRCywOosg7mFxyzcQumDdW0X5fSkUC46XFosnzwkBIyP5K6Uct1KCrAlPawS5HfQ1M8xHDdDvN5Rrcv9jMPjGpYN1ceoYqbzja6GEX02fOV1if1NdIHtwAkYE8StkviITBCijSDvDZvHARz0gy-ywwY2fDaRA9quqbYrtQ3dB6apBvIeW53XnTIRhby0yPEYCnvHMBJg5MU__qiTx30kd9F8280bNiFAzKBWDoeo-3Hdez3qFIJKOcr5bZvplsSkj00lPQunz_SaEqK9Re-1KeMm-wHAjL0mN2TXz-f_nth2L9yR1Rr8bpQLKyw1PSP08fm0ueuqYTiA=w1221-h915-no" width="450" height="338"></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="5"><strong>I’d be honored for you to use the graphic above for your own posts, but it’s certainly not required!</strong><br></font></p></blockquote>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jAxFY9LC_BejsClQcjuvnU2pvdov_8HKx1Hk0fn9SdfLHIGCuJMUTwRAQYAnzhEBPDNpoMvW_W-8kc6cxZlPZwcQc_6wEc3VckFgM8eT_skZMFcFFgLrrcgMaYnuoZmx_bNql98UrrjUOSiEk3SkU0CEjqvzRLf3Co1YLdsbIgkZ_epE10kjKJVGhxMsgH6YKx40_hthbpIceH0IZruQ31UpVVOXiiReDVqAEECufH7AA9AjiJ_qSCiB3Jrc4xb4muJ35PyFX0V8AhN5tP8le3YqnDstTc8YSIfPimI2sMnMdgbr0qGC5jSCQXi42CXSV0F8U5XpJ-I2_LAqKBHYUzLoJI9wR17ELW8JGRjBWJ6kQQlZA8iu4KnDBj1lwdj1KUy31Va-Rs_oE4HLpIxaFulGpfryHi-CSkbBpwU_svojYvwGa2orQXn8miiPKFujlGbZRfFy2DHJBJt06aZN_OJajQA9xLKk_waQfRZFmB95owRHGRPWBG5YPj2TylUW-6rtj8b-2juW1HUnihF_TWHRMVdCeD-IiQJbMjSobfe2X69ri4HHArTK1Nej8GlIp5Zdr8JJ1oDf2O0Xkh8BDJflBt7EsStSziDxPNPYinTlf6QDFP7b1DGJcyqjDvDo-HEEuRXsa7GPQFBwyyygtg4pMqwiGI8raKyCI8MS5IaYXMUCvX_EWAfanihve5XCKBgEWOArJ47SURbF3A=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118">
<p align="center"><font size="7">QUESTIONS</font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br></font><font size="5">1. Firstly, how did writing this novel go all around?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">2. Did it turn out like you expected or completely different? And how do you feel about the outcome?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">3. What aspect of the story did you love writing about the most? (Characters, plot, setting, prose, etc.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">4. How about your least favorite part?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">5. What do you feel like needs the most work?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">6. How do you feel about your characters now that the novel is done? Who’s your favorite? Least favorite? Anyone surprise you? Give us all the details!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">7. What’s your next plan of action with this novel?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">8. If you could have your greatest dream realized for this novel, what would it be?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">9. Share a snippet of one of your most favorite scenes!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">10. Did you glean any new writing and/or life lessons from writing this novel?</font></p></blockquote><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jAxFY9LC_BejsClQcjuvnU2pvdov_8HKx1Hk0fn9SdfLHIGCuJMUTwRAQYAnzhEBPDNpoMvW_W-8kc6cxZlPZwcQc_6wEc3VckFgM8eT_skZMFcFFgLrrcgMaYnuoZmx_bNql98UrrjUOSiEk3SkU0CEjqvzRLf3Co1YLdsbIgkZ_epE10kjKJVGhxMsgH6YKx40_hthbpIceH0IZruQ31UpVVOXiiReDVqAEECufH7AA9AjiJ_qSCiB3Jrc4xb4muJ35PyFX0V8AhN5tP8le3YqnDstTc8YSIfPimI2sMnMdgbr0qGC5jSCQXi42CXSV0F8U5XpJ-I2_LAqKBHYUzLoJI9wR17ELW8JGRjBWJ6kQQlZA8iu4KnDBj1lwdj1KUy31Va-Rs_oE4HLpIxaFulGpfryHi-CSkbBpwU_svojYvwGa2orQXn8miiPKFujlGbZRfFy2DHJBJt06aZN_OJajQA9xLKk_waQfRZFmB95owRHGRPWBG5YPj2TylUW-6rtj8b-2juW1HUnihF_TWHRMVdCeD-IiQJbMjSobfe2X69ri4HHArTK1Nej8GlIp5Zdr8JJ1oDf2O0Xkh8BDJflBt7EsStSziDxPNPYinTlf6QDFP7b1DGJcyqjDvDo-HEEuRXsa7GPQFBwyyygtg4pMqwiGI8raKyCI8MS5IaYXMUCvX_EWAfanihve5XCKBgEWOArJ47SURbF3A=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">SHARE YOUR LINK</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Now for the most important part, sharing your link! Once you’ve got your post written and up, come back here and add a link to it with the widget below so others can see!</strong></p>
<p align="center"><br><!-- start InLinkz script -->
<script type="text/javascript">
document.write('<scr' + 'ipt type="text/javascript" src="https://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=809519&' + new Date().getTime() + '"><\/script>');
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<!-- end InLinkz script --></p>
<p align="justify"><br>The linkup will be open through all the rest of December, but do feel free to take the questions and answer them ANY time!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dVx8GBb7O8G2BnvDjWYPFsyk2FnNo2zOSQlwaD8xVDJYqKotPljN9iERkzP8odukqOdpoil37DideFgucl2m3xGDLvTimOd8RwGA4qTsNoSmLbu93GzOij80rQr1CnUK7rg_WU-bl-C6jocGy5jxwX_RA4iAD8yu8o4yBewGZFWzHkY5ZZEpktjOqAJ6i6wREvgtFgHIiMww9-I27eyPSpu0uyoAs2nwE2ouawC0jsbw8gvPD0DrrTA9fCGBgkuGF0gb4nfxZaF2hYTfd7sgyBX0UdL_VE2xmSYnux-rTm3ogQiOcY4ps-ICTfW4fVMjLCJDfVhv1MGTeh-Ixe-eYbJOv5hO2N_pvFW9Rjq2RqxxGup2lvG54LOyXLsyJPRP8uZBfrkUXfxHtMOQwj2if-1LJxq9AoBWVGK3Tf4aD4oy8PpzyKeoFn09FFXcvrKhbuZKoqX4B2SHBcgmRKTmX2VkP4WD61O-hFcv7ja06FxmlSwkmMWmzS7D5Cl1Atqs57EzOhC5yxM4LEgBMXGJ2r_c5P_45hrlqmV3McfgeOdrezTOFeOLaoWbPRvijnOz0KvED_PN2xGYFFULCTEslYBYxy4u2aSvTi3apkssf6PYv79ZWqT_BBWTuh0lqXPXcUMUGRw_MsbDGQfqx6iqB0u2dGeDtHnJifnmQf15ERbtdZPa2ya8LygTgzaSOd6-dXExf9pqP-g4QtYkNg=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Putting these linkups together has been a joy. But what made it so special was YOU GUYS. I did not expect such a big turnout. Everyone’s enthusiasm has made it 10000x more fun. I’m thrilled so many of you have joined in and enjoyed it! *GIANT GROUP HUG*</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’m thiiiinking about making this an annual thing??? Whadda think? <strong>Would you guys like to do this again? And if you DO, do you have any suggestions for improving how I run it or did you have some questions you’d like me to ask?</strong> I would LOVE your input! So do share away!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fJI1Tf8gIRryfDM_wxasQJAVVLPyjhA33pEhHxDawtOC0LQ7wqtP8NR8Gtwwevp737CqpiBnoCc-Inq52oSvhB6stYcnVYgb7057pRiRrYkJT1T8GkjBBjohsrz47uhdCJW6uHHcm4w6QJMec5mDrL2-zQt4b_rESJ2QPIG66RqhbeapMCnHBhndK3drQZPs54tqlcI8jaJxVCI1kxOLVjL6EYUVMaqdcLKTyqzUKAEz6CWL11wn5EdNqiLBgPVH-dMTW-2p-yRtc2yzxYgn6I_ymcllDF-Vdp3m6UGi6FIGUJa6RtvUCHxC9YebP8FRS3zCE7hvmnvrbekPfIgLi3J9E9ta8wu8wgppEtBHc79H37dkTO18BMpje381PxfB7K6kaFj4g_XQ6J-t_qGW75xa4crb8lnLEPJq0tJmfe3_Dh-U_P0nQbPNHmbj0EwO8nw5JoJrTCa6nbkQ_vI8M8B-fKEjwbeamzn11ikMDfqclPpv4ApDkWeiXnO3ye9QHQ1aKl0tEXGdDxZvDADHAISHM7GxPpHuVwqfebInVwB65ty2lDRIDj32a2QSRaq7LlDken6ZjwFWGDNrVR69NWwiWfL9MUbpv3h2DLYZ_L7FGatyRd1or-To4KQkQJ2tAx-aWuYhK-GcaRHe863_c1wtI3Ioj2r3H_dDHpXYdm_Ya5aQdtFrDTRgFHB5cJD9MWh25GxV-GxwLzDkbQ=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">Are you excited? <font size="4">(Because I am!)</font> I can’t wait to see everyone’s posts and hear about your writing experiences. Have you enjoyed this linkup? And <em>would</em> you like to see it return next year? I’d love to hear from you! Thank you all again for joining in! IT’S BEEN SO MUCH FUN!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-2668595760684598582018-12-03T09:33:00.000-06:002018-12-03T09:33:37.957-06:00NaNoWriMo 2018: Thoughts, Stats, and Snippets<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5yay68YaY8xuVqdSouKu4Yr54h5riTgaYMH0lMzrcXUIQha8uF0PtVoG5PEJs4-vFuyioHfzMhaim4-ber0G5EmDbqgqEoxvhlOBX-_BAQkYhFpWGVQpITdzwBnubbuFtaMAqc8Nog3LEeKJP1PTqBbbPVc2HLW9pYNmmVCO3lmnbre2mlQvfqVCJqB0ut0dDCyePN6CjY_GAmGiSlVO2ASkNcjB2h6NWJKNDXgprwix6ge44IxEQ8TJX3WjRD34LBiWtoJ2sGW6opkaHMkvvXB3Jfjuk8G93a4al-fTsoDLNqRQHU7ReqLSuxIPvWDuF6XUrv7e_vmkYy8EXdoUnPaJqB6Jm7pp6_x7jrwOiBTcFMbJpNjT95CfdZ2qvQrwiNMXe89KjE2_9S0vRP2w-PP1dr2XNQNiEvsbo9hUK3TQXwjApYj5WkI5HkBIMmjOcJkFiaWUs7_XixM0ibKSxItNrBZyZZcmpp1YnE6ci4_Jt_3oGiMhudSruhu9XgCYOKE6roCH2jPakHu4TNV6YtnU2O1KflFVFpkXu1DjBy4wWkIbPA8GtVVCepfr2Tne2vFoFs_68B7FR_YKe0wiYnqZFhpU1dY363mnSWGajdeZiOlcmjw_CXPz14vgtYKlm3CvTmThk6ZTvdijeFr_ExvYlRu0bal3C6omxz9ZGAYRIhbU2-_NDWpMU9h8ewY-Eur1Mdgi8q9Ur1IxLA=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">IT’S DECEMBER. December. DECEMBERRRR. NaNoWriMo is over. WUT???? We have made it through the insanity that is November a.k.a National Novel Writing Month and I MAY BE A LITTLE SHOCKED.</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>NaNo is always this weird paradox of time in that it feels like 3 days long and a lifetime all at once. I think it’s because the days are zipping by in <em>my</em> life, but I’m also so immersed in my <em>characters</em> lives, I feel as if I’ve gone on the same ginormous, life-changing journey as them. When I think back to the beginning of November, it seems like yesterday, and yet also so much has <em>happened</em> since then. It’s weird. NaNo is weird. EVERYTHING IS WEIRD.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But hi! We have made it!!! AND IT’S DECEMBER.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Except, erm, NaNo is still basically going on for me because I didn’t quiiiite finish my story. Yeah. It’s a beast. As of right now I have just FIVE chapters left and am right in the midst of the crazy climax so I’m excited to wrap this thing up.</strong> It shouldn’t be much longer now… <font size="2">Icandothis Icandothis Icandothis.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Ahem. Anyways. <strong>Just because my story isn’t finished, doesn’t mean I can’t do a big ol’ NaNo wrapup post with some thoughts on the experience and stats </strong><font size="2">(because who doesn’t love stats?)! </font><strong>And yes, snippets shall also be included.</strong> *wriggles eyebrows*</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eXzToCxLg2FgO5sikNVYyi51YY7FyseOYQRlaxKU-_ChCqShDlyLOIsjO0z3SDm7U5WEL0UtlKGd7qoT2gfV_b6HXCeIonqKSiwHzckIIH7I-WGx5NOtX_yV5OaajdJPVMiFElVvLI6sbhrGzNPzmHtI-uMOvH8L3hm5ZQkegLfcmaL92Bwqq031Q8uuKoVFlcy0ROj3KLGgN4VyIIzTUeUGdI6Uv2zO6l2CWeTzBiclv3lDTnluUEQscrx3DtneIPMI4PAzGeMMgdylQn_WlEAdJzSxP15dJy9YjQUepOejT3tWGwVfir1cghJv1xmydv-PqmikOg0ln0t8eiXY25d0xWzOu2y5CW6jRFcXsz9sEJegk4o5AMoR187MzhXw-wuxj6DU5FtsGDFyhAtx3ykBeECV8mzPJNH_3JleEbkGVPlMxSw-2WWcNpgQENGyl6DAcQ5-ORtUY4KkfwRujs4YRXs2OS7WFsWhqej7VIhvPDXxON34wiaOM9WJW1JkcyhYaek2-R94uWTplYonqVqPnp3g6LTdr-MGTS9_hzFJE7hFQvF1pK6XQI_2HknEFzn-3XFzrLbcrlUWpn3hYIRAeoXLaJHuXvvix_12v2IZpF5EBgjI4Zak_jLZHN_r2nQPs_aDOR_LERqCrJkAbHAXlMsZcpZg1tQvPR1MkDnodVnnL25_R65WJo3nkvx9SGkjNBO0nOhZ8ScfTg=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">NANOWRIMO 2018</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eXzToCxLg2FgO5sikNVYyi51YY7FyseOYQRlaxKU-_ChCqShDlyLOIsjO0z3SDm7U5WEL0UtlKGd7qoT2gfV_b6HXCeIonqKSiwHzckIIH7I-WGx5NOtX_yV5OaajdJPVMiFElVvLI6sbhrGzNPzmHtI-uMOvH8L3hm5ZQkegLfcmaL92Bwqq031Q8uuKoVFlcy0ROj3KLGgN4VyIIzTUeUGdI6Uv2zO6l2CWeTzBiclv3lDTnluUEQscrx3DtneIPMI4PAzGeMMgdylQn_WlEAdJzSxP15dJy9YjQUepOejT3tWGwVfir1cghJv1xmydv-PqmikOg0ln0t8eiXY25d0xWzOu2y5CW6jRFcXsz9sEJegk4o5AMoR187MzhXw-wuxj6DU5FtsGDFyhAtx3ykBeECV8mzPJNH_3JleEbkGVPlMxSw-2WWcNpgQENGyl6DAcQ5-ORtUY4KkfwRujs4YRXs2OS7WFsWhqej7VIhvPDXxON34wiaOM9WJW1JkcyhYaek2-R94uWTplYonqVqPnp3g6LTdr-MGTS9_hzFJE7hFQvF1pK6XQI_2HknEFzn-3XFzrLbcrlUWpn3hYIRAeoXLaJHuXvvix_12v2IZpF5EBgjI4Zak_jLZHN_r2nQPs_aDOR_LERqCrJkAbHAXlMsZcpZg1tQvPR1MkDnodVnnL25_R65WJo3nkvx9SGkjNBO0nOhZ8ScfTg=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mgYDN-eZoQigyxuEW5D_WjpISAczTIkTMZNtHGzlskd0uQ5bHLolHxY2-AFuDozB8mDk75odWEKvbIDUD3YHUhLDd18VfnSro1n2313UENe0KxwiHK1yaaqoscGrFxDnV6u_Ban8Ocniqh6IC-IpQGbWNrnliVlh7b7TW3JshqN9KZKpnFuNeYtaGN8f3ZPl0_nCNY_SB2KN1DLPxYQAOY1HPkOf3xLM9JvuFAegeub9J3qY9NLeokWtha3yL7MlaarWvhbftsrlXZ1lOjM9zTJ8uZaQlAzVWPPmaI9jvUXge8nib82TpnXWK2ZnO963xwWNZiO8oowTUw4EVt4J-2m7-Ei1TEzRw_xYHWol7D1XeWPSxtRJ55Od_7OVz7Y8-Sv-pOzhTjeISc0kKxYDVbzwcPKvz-7Fer6fu1IEbHTVbNIrtsX9VF90HiZEYLPypX66lt97Fdwa5YjetmDdpAtvjReWk8g9FpUcI5jppz7cHGGREkyhsAG5Ebp28j9Xr6a8FZEKXVU3ZnR1WauABKpMx19tjBo8vDjIDHjteo9zigxXqzqqBA7cpiBrXuEWHkubtJLqVHMiyFV_RvZ4qQ4XCLHxNlK-Ru35eHuUreSB_nQPZxrS5QFpE4aq6gTyZZ050R3zB9mo8gCAYSbmMUkmURR-IQf9VwjXaU2r5Hp0xx-n_75VFWsxPUXOOf84qnbbXmpSFCTdPM9K5w=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">MY THOUGHTS</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This was both a wonderful and stressful NaNo, as all NaNos are. Although this one did feel a bit rougher than some of the others.</strong> Or it may have just felt like that because <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2017/12/nanowrimo-17-wrap-up-in-which-end.html" target="_blank">last year</a> went so smoothly it gave the illusion of this one being hard. I DON’T KNOW. But still, I definitely enjoyed this one.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I think a big thing was that I have been in total editing mode pretty much all year long, so shifting into that first draft mentality didn’t go well.</strong> I keep pausing and stressing over every single wording choice, and bemoaning how dumb my sentences are. Some days I threw caution to the wind and wrote like a rabid monkey, but mostly that inner editor would <em>not </em>shush.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/drbyKBt80bg7KITl2yMaBfNhFeBTlgr9N492t4hu3VrCFbng-5OOXeVKCSPU23ymjA72b-86b_bPYMm38Qj7BuNS36gfPIOze7yUuQpDwhxhQ6r6_G87JnFP4pguNqbZTxgta_7QMYCdAGNhH4snuQqLcvSOroa8h-0-D-5zxNiBnHKGCKR5m5tBplz_whkysYXyRc1rO97GbVuQyasMCAbmlnDL0fZ51RzcKsIkBKdZfAhUgs_WjFDBGQ8qByKHeKgN52g7RVkaD7Cnp0w6plBWeoZRk4lBIinqXBBpysCvl3-bSyitxz6gQxK8kCknpsvUtJ33Xe1l_kwg84lIw6ONshkhfhAKI0iMtKxGjg9jvAIQnhXpY_mAdasAtzfHWD8U7AWlG8X4CVnidsVhUKEgrBJQwymvpSQh2B699J1B2A0hzPiFsTK0IDiPdNh4vwVQGsOqPtjIom5ooQ3un_FvSGgXk_JTaVKHvwi-37ccWgnBxFySlIxQWYQgVYB3oliHILwrxw5F95Pz-qqnouhytVauwUHu5I1k_0kE6ovMFQgEqYKMG4sArkpzmsUjEVAbwMGQv3lq6vw95GsJswPKfuYS_ujUWC1BBw2JKUqoSsl1Go6XlO15j0mfa6K8wZVZmepxa4RhpcUiZJoojeASyVFzs1mQaM7J0nOqLf5zLHzUax7aTMf3UTDwbb0Blj910vmpcWl_Cyx7zQ=w245-h154-no" width="350" height="225"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And yet, despite all my stressing, I still think this draft is a total disaster. XD I should have just enjoyed making a mess and accept it which is what I usually try to do during NaNo.</strong> But, again, I’ve been so focused on editing this year, more so than any other year, my inner editor has ingrained itself in my brain and won’t go away. >.> I also feel like the words were harder to get down because, despite my enormous outline, the absurdly complicated plot hurt my poor wee brain and it took a lot of effort to bring everything together in a <font size="2">(hopefully but probably not really)</font> logical way.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But I also discovered something that surprised me while writing this.</strong> Usually, I am <em>all</em> for dark, emotional stories. Those are my faaave to write <font size="2">(should I be worried?)</font><font size="4">, and I was extra excited about this book because ooooh boy, was it gonna be a feels-slayer. <font size="2">Bwahahaha.</font> I had a playlist full of dramatic instrumental music to tug at my heartstrings, and was totally ready to destroy some fictional people’s lives. <strong>But then something happened. I…depressed myself with my own plot. Which has never really happened before.</strong> I do get <em>very</em> emotional with my stories, but I usually kinda…like it. We like to <em>feel.</em> And I love when I feel deeply over my novels. But this time, everything was so ridiculously <em>sad</em>, it actually made some cracks in my stony author’s heart.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And I realized…spending 30+ days straight in a depressing story may not be a good thing.</strong> If I was writing this slow, and not immersing myself in it during every. waking. hour. for a whole month, I doubt the dark side of it would have bothered me. I <em>like</em> how dark and emotional it is, I don’t want to change that. I think it really brings out the themes. BUT, it may have been a bit much for a NaNo novel. <strong>Because this is, without a doubt, my darkest book I’ve ever written.</strong> My other stories have some prettyyy emotional things, but I have to say <em>Kings Bleed Gold</em> won as far as deep, heartbreaking themes and a constant flow of sad circumstances. Eheheh. Hurray? XD</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1c1CHKqI1Bf0iLhc66gUUD9UzM0TfxPupgx7CNxWj-OF7OzmoAmG1aRp6S5CTSp5OJvubzUBc91loyuLzgb3RyIuhkNEqncrg93qI9bPcRdMJLq1h8zZpML3QQj8Bu__uL_q2GWs_6oU_dxxkGAbESmTIotdPosYMPB_Pvi69r4obwHEgZ1I6VbYysYVcWsBHncHqKPyCyYKltWmYmm4mczyTDWuMGtZMUIz5xE3hjGeQP8NBBKZR9CWJ1MTqXJSbSj13ZVIz4IEUEhNbW6wSD2_DApK2l6y5bFw0J2eAU-FXTx-FwNiGYrEAjDLUdKJ9-D0rVGy5D-AubtZjq6cNxcq3ypYxq6WxP4zEhPn2FUN01x0FfO7RYAb0-z4b8r5GT1t1wMh9fSQqBzP3hcxDW6LqcwIzjQmhYSTtcyrsSblyybzgQVvPSWyTR1wKpYpEK7f03SeoOnAHkFWmkpTahFgh-sYUAStB4OsGiuue0VufSJg3UIVJ94VXNg-gV2feXYbqCSQbHko5PfZAatT_-jGrjGCVhYRnV_rXMKHI_HpwWR6vuUfe7y96exU1auRCUQT8BSrC5aw3-NQ0fHdFC5RdfcW65t17JTmjqcXvIQ2_D1ZtzRaUFhR5Z0GeGkj_WzSEaxnb-RQ_XMKhfrHaSqgqq_BnsHiWRKcTN6YWL5y5gASHLpqxgPXYaSpvKHzJtMmytGXe87KYIXiPA=w600-h256-no" width="350" height="153"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But seriously, I don’t regret writing it like that. This is a story I felt needed to be told, and I’m pretty happy with the outcome. Buuut I’m thinking for something like NaNo, where it’s filling my days and thoughts and <em>life</em> for a complete 30 days, writing something a liiiittle lighter may be better?</strong> Or at least not writing something super dark <em>every</em> year. I’m already considering a much more light-hearted and super fun idea I’ve had for a while for next NaNo.<font size="3"> *griiiins*</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Overall though? I really, really love this story.</strong> It definitely has not been the easiest to write, and it’s going to need a lot of work, but it really is a story I want to tell. It’s been a pleasure watching Midas go from bratty prince to hero. Seeing Korinna overcome her debilitating fears and taking a stand. And rooting Syram on as he finds his place in the world. <strong>It’s been a journey for sure, and I have no regrets writing it. Every single story is going to cause hard days, long days, stressful days. But, in the end, writing them is always, always worth it.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>But enough of my blabbers! Onto the fun stuff!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mgYDN-eZoQigyxuEW5D_WjpISAczTIkTMZNtHGzlskd0uQ5bHLolHxY2-AFuDozB8mDk75odWEKvbIDUD3YHUhLDd18VfnSro1n2313UENe0KxwiHK1yaaqoscGrFxDnV6u_Ban8Ocniqh6IC-IpQGbWNrnliVlh7b7TW3JshqN9KZKpnFuNeYtaGN8f3ZPl0_nCNY_SB2KN1DLPxYQAOY1HPkOf3xLM9JvuFAegeub9J3qY9NLeokWtha3yL7MlaarWvhbftsrlXZ1lOjM9zTJ8uZaQlAzVWPPmaI9jvUXge8nib82TpnXWK2ZnO963xwWNZiO8oowTUw4EVt4J-2m7-Ei1TEzRw_xYHWol7D1XeWPSxtRJ55Od_7OVz7Y8-Sv-pOzhTjeISc0kKxYDVbzwcPKvz-7Fer6fu1IEbHTVbNIrtsX9VF90HiZEYLPypX66lt97Fdwa5YjetmDdpAtvjReWk8g9FpUcI5jppz7cHGGREkyhsAG5Ebp28j9Xr6a8FZEKXVU3ZnR1WauABKpMx19tjBo8vDjIDHjteo9zigxXqzqqBA7cpiBrXuEWHkubtJLqVHMiyFV_RvZ4qQ4XCLHxNlK-Ru35eHuUreSB_nQPZxrS5QFpE4aq6gTyZZ050R3zB9mo8gCAYSbmMUkmURR-IQf9VwjXaU2r5Hp0xx-n_75VFWsxPUXOOf84qnbbXmpSFCTdPM9K5w=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">STATS</font></p>
<p> </p>
<p align="center"><strong><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rTJ2DsFVxCwEpRrVenR2l_o26bmOc-Ju8LyC7wfOpIztPlVX-OagiYp1Zb2qpPGLG-oSWTTIJ0bvIXZpvC37HHNVBIxHZQ1QAuPpOrmdmoz84XeZa6OOJXHl8IZcmKPovKfRguNnfDwRExQuBussxQzdzSd-JeRzny_FnMooJs9-K45xOsZN3Kw5oqhU6Q5m4-Rl6-UexZ_jfHARcv7yqjBzE5hiSyTYXCMiQl1-_zOeKoN5q99NI1smH_kiWWUre6udlPf47X0So0bb3nLxsVgklSs-E6scJLg9OM3QYou0_SbwN8IpcVwUwg6wqykIqH__H2irMyWo7P_RCG3Dugx_xkJNClGzBS4q8hyiLWaItjaznKOLH6FbIa1H95ZEuQEcgjXnHA22cAKQxmqGMUcCsByYpRZuehtlTo9uxZo9c-0xIN3dlP1wnJ0Zahdh31XS8-lqnQY_dwGNcoSUbmyAsMhCCRPtk74AefUHO9dupb-qjVDU9SuIwHi9558vXB9ceaoX3Hw-TjEHRyZF-oo5OwvHUKl5Fa6E3gRDvSmbJwRoYZksXuka1uyM-WBP6Ye2SsvBpcoor0RJf7N5_j4QxgFGlnVvLpBwtU-YvUG5PXz-bIPwqT_maw4CJx3tjuDVd4xnYl1fxBcdP7KNK2Y4QktATPyCkQTnwRUO0cEHr0F9bzaikyfJBuikV9nMqfmrYeAaOpYbpLrtYw=w1392-h872-no" width="750" height="472"></strong><font size="2">My final NaNo ‘18 stats.</font><br></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><strong><br>- Number of Days I Wrote: </strong>30! I managed to write every single day this November. Some NaNos I’m able to do that, some I’m deeefinitely not, but I’m always happy when I can. Despite some insanity, I actually didn’t struggle to find writing time most days this month, which was definitely a happy surprise. And it proved to me I <em>can</em> make time for writing every day if I put effort into it.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>- Wordiest Day:</strong> November 1st with 7,031 words</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>- Least Wordiest Day:</strong> November 10th with 566 words</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>- Number of Character Deaths:</strong> BWAHAHAHAHA!!!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>- Hit 50k On:</strong> Day 13!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>- Hit 100k On:</strong> Day 28! <font size="3">(Yes, I did a double NaNo because sanity? pssshhh. Who needs it?)</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><strong>Total Words Written:</strong> 107,280 words</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mgYDN-eZoQigyxuEW5D_WjpISAczTIkTMZNtHGzlskd0uQ5bHLolHxY2-AFuDozB8mDk75odWEKvbIDUD3YHUhLDd18VfnSro1n2313UENe0KxwiHK1yaaqoscGrFxDnV6u_Ban8Ocniqh6IC-IpQGbWNrnliVlh7b7TW3JshqN9KZKpnFuNeYtaGN8f3ZPl0_nCNY_SB2KN1DLPxYQAOY1HPkOf3xLM9JvuFAegeub9J3qY9NLeokWtha3yL7MlaarWvhbftsrlXZ1lOjM9zTJ8uZaQlAzVWPPmaI9jvUXge8nib82TpnXWK2ZnO963xwWNZiO8oowTUw4EVt4J-2m7-Ei1TEzRw_xYHWol7D1XeWPSxtRJ55Od_7OVz7Y8-Sv-pOzhTjeISc0kKxYDVbzwcPKvz-7Fer6fu1IEbHTVbNIrtsX9VF90HiZEYLPypX66lt97Fdwa5YjetmDdpAtvjReWk8g9FpUcI5jppz7cHGGREkyhsAG5Ebp28j9Xr6a8FZEKXVU3ZnR1WauABKpMx19tjBo8vDjIDHjteo9zigxXqzqqBA7cpiBrXuEWHkubtJLqVHMiyFV_RvZ4qQ4XCLHxNlK-Ru35eHuUreSB_nQPZxrS5QFpE4aq6gTyZZ050R3zB9mo8gCAYSbmMUkmURR-IQf9VwjXaU2r5Hp0xx-n_75VFWsxPUXOOf84qnbbXmpSFCTdPM9K5w=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">SNIPPETS</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>So many of you sweet people actually kept requesting snippets. Like…of my messy, ridiculous novel. Just SDKJF:LJSD:LJF. I AM HONORED. I kept telling you I’d try to share more and…HERE WE ARE! Just remember I wrote 107k words in 30 days of no sleep so yeah. These are nooot exactly New York Times bestseller worthy. <font size="2">Or even sharing-on-my-little-blog worthy but here we are.</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/6Lm_Oc4Fa_HnHan1JVgJ2a7hrq9uvprA3j8tzzAqmfEvfs9rAQQVY2Gi4qT1AIzMpADmU7yaBXqrermHvgw5RyYqn8cbfwTJaiBlXpZKMVPE-d5RDeNPDfJC_vvlvBwbPhVmQhEPjtgaVZMKrQtU9U1c4g9kSYzpdAQyGkEqa7kjJ7guRYu0I4CSNDBk-8-ArzFfSkbFihxfvBb1OgXf4dHXgwYUTQHXewMe_6Uot443eFXUkBthfddM_Ut6kroyXDSL_SuYdHQAHHYNouHKVVR-mygMI2f7cBbxG38QXgL_GELfDlAHM-OrMNP_Oq2i0TAE2D25D9Xle-HRBGokc-sBnN0b8Esc7Fdk1n6zeq3zq0awt5vBFooB62bjaMVCfGHDe9RFpk-l1L0P5rm6UBloQZ-xuAc8_-pBKXQyzra3W9PG4ZW8pCLau0yAQ8DccqWB2poHH7rpQGJ4m-2JEDT5RarA-Pq-EiQfmOg7kL99Vj44kAqLUrrNa2M4jce0s9xPazYdGDZr59I-yQQRIZdy8GOqD-sE8J1CRrD6v9g9HLasyLvcSETtqabfZ4WrD4u5yLY0p30kcfKsGzed2-laZiO8UmUhU7M1pLtEao1XqBc1g81jdggG7wKua14wM9Gl4N7bt-yb1pUk0m5aO3P2sOA8cxvNY3iyyPxz-2lOgolXl8acF2RG29TKSlYZ4uX-7SovNWdg7qVjCg=w540-h765-no" width="260" height="367"><font size="2">A mock cover I made just for funsies.</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<p align="center"><br><em>First up is one of Midas and Syram’s first conversations <font size="2">(because Syram)</font>.</em></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>Are you a slave? I mean, is everyone here a slave?”</p>
<p align="justify">“Everyone?” He raised an eyebrow. “Of course not.”
<p align="justify">Hope fluttered in Midas’ chest. “Really? Who’s not a slave?”
<p align="justify">“The dragons.”
<p align="justify">He groaned as the hope instantly deflated. Was this person serious? His name was becoming more and more fitting by the second. “Of course <i>they’re</i> not, but what about the people?”
<p align="justify">“Oh them? Yes, they’re slaves.”
<p align="justify">“Where in Ellador even <i>are</i> we?”
<p align="justify">“Beneath.”
<p align="justify">He furrowed his brow. “Beneath what?”
<p align="justify">“Ellador. Well, somewhere in the west of Ellador I think.”
<p align="justify">“Wait, wait, wait.” He mind spun. “Do you mean to tell me this place is <i>underground?</i>”
<p align="justify">The man cocked his head again and looked at him as if he was the strange one. “Naturally. Where else would dragons live? The sun is poison to them you know. Well…for now. But I better get going. I doubt they’d be happy if they found me here. Goodbye.”
<p align="justify">“No, wait!” But it was too late. The man was already down the tunnel and climbing right off…the edge? Was there a ladder of some kind there? He called to the man again, but his wild head of hair and leather cap had already disappeared from view.</p></blockquote>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<p align="center"><br><em>And part of Midas and Korinna’s first conversation</em>.</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="7">“</font></strong>It’s nice to meet you, Midas.” The genuine warmth in her tone startled him.</p>
<p align="justify">“Is it? No one else seems to think so.”
<p align="justify">“Well.” She moved her gaze toward the fire where most of the slaves had gathered to eat and talk amongst themselves, though they didn’t seem too busy to shoot Midas a nasty look every now and again. “You’re our worst nightmare, really.”
<p align="justify">He almost choked. “Oh, well that makes me feel better,” he said, coughing up bits of fish.
<p align="justify">“Sorry.” Her eyes sparked with a hint of amusement, but the moment was fleeting and her tone dropped again. “It’s just we have hoped for so long the dragons would never reach their goal. We were encouraged when the gold in the mines seemed to run out. But now that you’re here…” They locked eyes, and that strength he had seen in her seemed to seep out, leaving nothing but pure terror. “I fear it will only be a matter of weeks.”</p></blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><em>Syram and Korinna were obviously making Midas feel very comfortable with this whole enslaved-by-dragons thing. *cough, cough*</em></p>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="7">“</font></strong>The earth-shaking roar of a dragon startled him awake. “Get to work!” The dragon’s cry echoed through the sleeping quarters like a boom of thunder.</p>
<p align="justify">Midas squinted at the gold light now gleaming from the threads. It was day time already? But didn’t he <i>just</i> get to sleep? They couldn’t possibly expect him to get up already. But judging by the sounds of men shifting out of their cots and clumps of feet on ladders and stone, they did.
<p align="justify">He really, really, <i>really</i> hated dragons.</p></blockquote>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="7">“</font></strong>Things were looking brighter. At least as bright as being enslaved by dragons below the earth and aiding them in bringing the end of the world could be.</p></blockquote>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="7">“</font></strong>His other source of companionship was Syram, who, unlike Korinna, lingered on the farm for long amounts of time and often aided Midas in his tasks. The man was utterly fascinated by the upper world, and asked Midas a hundred questions a day about his life there. He didn’t mind a bit talking about his kingdom and, odd though the man was, welcomed the company. It helped distract him from his own thoughts.</p>
<p align="justify">One day, he was sitting outside the stone building and pulling feathers out of a dead chicken (not his favorite task) with five more piled up, when the redhead bounced down the path to him, a book in hand. He plopped down in front of Midas with a grin.
<p align="justify">“I thought I’d entertain you today.”
<p align="justify">Midas stared wide-eyed at the enormous volume in the man’s lap. “Where did you get <i>that?</i>”
<p align="justify">“The dragons’ library,” he said matter-of-factly.
<p align="justify">“They have a library?” His mind whirled.
<p align="justify">“Of course. The dragons love knowledge.”
<p align="justify">“But where do they get the books?”
<p align="justify">“Mmm…” He looked up, scratching his head. “They steal them a lot. Dragons do like collecting things, you know. They go above at night quite often to take things.”
<p align="justify">“Including people,” Midas murmured.</p></blockquote>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<p align="center"><br><em>Syram has a knack for dragging Midas on crazy escapades…</em></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="7">“</font></strong>It looks safe,” Syram whispered. “Come on, quick.” He lowered the plank off the ledge, looped the part of the rope around the hook and held the other end. Then he hopped on and pulled at the rope, keeping the plank from plummeting.</p>
<p align="justify">Midas’ heart skipped. “What are you <i>doing?</i>”
<p align="justify">Now Syram’s impish grin made an appearance. “I’ve done it tons of times. Though usually I’m by myself, so you better keep a good grip on the rope too. Once we’re both on, we’ll slowly lower ourselves.”
<p align="justify">“This is insane.”
<p align="justify">Syram cast a nervous glance behind him at the guard dragon. “We need to go.”
<p align="justify">With a huff, Midas reached down and took the end of the rope Syram held to keep the plank steady. He took a deep breath, held his foot out, and stepped onto the plank behind Syram. It jerked down, nearly throwing him off his feet, and the rope slipped between their fingers. “Whoa!” He snagged it tight and they halted. The plank rocked underneath them.
<p align="justify">“Shhh,” Syram hissed.
<p align="justify">He gritted his teeth, more concerned about falling to his death than keeping quiet.
<p align="justify">“All right, on the count of three loosen your grip, then grab hold of it again. One, two—”
<p align="justify">“Wait but.”
<p align="justify">“<i>Three.”</i>
<p align="justify">Midas grunted as both their weight tugged on his arms. Slowly, heart pounding, he loosened his hold. The plank shot down as the rope slid across his gloves. With a yelp, he snagged it again, but Syram did as well, and they lurched to a halt.
<p align="justify">Syram tossed a grin over his shoulder. “See? It’s easy. Ready to go again?”
<p align="justify">“Not really.”
<p align="justify">“One, two, <i>three.”</i>
<p align="justify">Midas loosened his finger despite himself, and his stomach flopped as they jerked down farther, but now he was getting the hang of it. After four more session, the plank plunked to the ground. Breaths heavy and arms sore, he stumbled to the earth. “This better be extremely important.”
<p align="justify">“Very. Come on.” Syram dashed down the path, ducking in the shadows of the hills.
<p align="justify">Groaning, Midas hurried after him.</p></blockquote>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<p align="center"><br><em>Introducing Princess Ahleri (and her odd pet) of my African inspired kingdom. I only just met her officially at the tail end of November and may totally love her. XD</em></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="7">“</font></strong>Something black and white hurtled toward Midas’ face. He cried out and snatched it from the air before it made contact, but even as he held the wriggling thing before his eyes, he couldn’t comprehend what it was. At first appearance, it seemed to be a white rabbit with black tipped ears and specks along its lower back. But that wouldn’t account for the wings sprouting from its back and three tails. Its wings and tails, too, were tipped with black. It wrinkled its noise and made chirping noises as it continued to writhe in his grip.</p>
<p align="justify">“Suru! What do you think you’re doing?”
<p align="justify">He pulled the odd rabbit down just as two young woman bustled into the room through a door to the left. One was the young female warrior who had escorted them to the castle. The other appeared a year or two younger than him. Dark hair piled atop her head in a haggard up-do and a smudge of something black streaked across her cheek. Her robe resembled the Queen’s in style, but had patterns of green and brown, save for the stain of black across the front. She wore no jewelry, and rough leather gloves covered her hands.
<p align="justify">“I’m so sorry about that!” She ran up to Midas and took the winged-rabbit and held it up to eye level. “Will you <i>please</i> behave?”
<p align="justify">Queen Malkaya cleared her throat.
<p align="justify">The young woman snapped her head up and seemed to notice Midas for the first time. “Oooh, are you him? The one that can turn things to gold?” Her mouth spread into a delighted smile, and that’s when he saw the resemblance, and it took him by surprise. Was this Queen Malkaya’s…daughter?”
<p align="justify">“I am,” he said slowly, offering a slight bow.
<p align="justify">She gasped and scowled back down at the winged-rabbit. “See what could have happened, Suru? You could have become a gold statue to stick on the mantel.” The rabbit just squeaked. Rolling her eyes, she placed the creature on her shoulder. It clung there obediently, eyeing Midas with enormous black eyes.
<p align="justify">Queen Malkaya stepped forward. “Midas, Korinna, Syram, this is my daughter Ahleri.”
<p align="justify">So she was a princess. Amusement tugged his lips up. Her appearance reminded him of the days he and Nikolas would come into the castle after one of their “adventures”, tracking in mud and their clothes ripped, much to Mother’s chagrin. “It is an honor to meet you, Princess Ahleri.”
<p align="justify">“Oh, you as well!” Despite her rather disheveled appearance, she curtsied with all the grace of her mother, and grinned wide. “Can I see you turn something to gold? It sounds fascinating!”
<p align="justify">“Ahleri, dear, this really isn’t the time,” the Queen said in a long-suffering tone.</p></blockquote>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>Ahleri handed the book to Syram, whose grin reached all the way across his face. “Thank you,” he breathed, holding it on top of his other book.</p>
<p align="justify">“I think we have more like that in the library,” she said.
<p align="justify">He snapped his eyes up from the book at this. “Library?”
<p align="justify">Midas shared a grin with Korinna. The keyword to Syram’s happiness.</p></blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><em>Syram, a man of my own heart.</em></p>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>I’m going to fix this,” Midas said, and he meant it with every bit of strength in his being. “If I leave, the dragons will just come searching for me again, so I’m going to stop them. Forever.” </p>
<p align="justify">Korinna’s brow furrowed. “How?”
<p align="justify">“I highly doubt any person on Ellador will be too happy to hear that there is a horde of dragons right under their feet, just waiting to rise up, block the sun, and take reign. And so I’m going to rally forces, all the forces I can across Ellador. And we are going to fight.”
<p align="justify">Slowly, Korinna rose to her feet, as did Syram, and the looks on their faces fueled his determination like a burning fire. Hope. He had given them hope.
<p align="justify">“Syram.” He held his hand out.
<p align="justify">Wordlessly, the man dropped his golden rock into his palm, but a smile crept across his face, and Midas smiled too.
<p align="justify">“Let’s get me up on that pillar. It’s time to make a war.”</p></blockquote>
<p> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<p align="justify"><br>And there we go! I’m honestly proud I managed to find so many lighthearted ones. XD (And, yes, I may have just picked ones featuring Syram. *cough*)</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mgYDN-eZoQigyxuEW5D_WjpISAczTIkTMZNtHGzlskd0uQ5bHLolHxY2-AFuDozB8mDk75odWEKvbIDUD3YHUhLDd18VfnSro1n2313UENe0KxwiHK1yaaqoscGrFxDnV6u_Ban8Ocniqh6IC-IpQGbWNrnliVlh7b7TW3JshqN9KZKpnFuNeYtaGN8f3ZPl0_nCNY_SB2KN1DLPxYQAOY1HPkOf3xLM9JvuFAegeub9J3qY9NLeokWtha3yL7MlaarWvhbftsrlXZ1lOjM9zTJ8uZaQlAzVWPPmaI9jvUXge8nib82TpnXWK2ZnO963xwWNZiO8oowTUw4EVt4J-2m7-Ei1TEzRw_xYHWol7D1XeWPSxtRJ55Od_7OVz7Y8-Sv-pOzhTjeISc0kKxYDVbzwcPKvz-7Fer6fu1IEbHTVbNIrtsX9VF90HiZEYLPypX66lt97Fdwa5YjetmDdpAtvjReWk8g9FpUcI5jppz7cHGGREkyhsAG5Ebp28j9Xr6a8FZEKXVU3ZnR1WauABKpMx19tjBo8vDjIDHjteo9zigxXqzqqBA7cpiBrXuEWHkubtJLqVHMiyFV_RvZ4qQ4XCLHxNlK-Ru35eHuUreSB_nQPZxrS5QFpE4aq6gTyZZ050R3zB9mo8gCAYSbmMUkmURR-IQf9VwjXaU2r5Hp0xx-n_75VFWsxPUXOOf84qnbbXmpSFCTdPM9K5w=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">CONCLUSION</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Despite some bumps in the road, I had a wonderful time this NaNo. I was talking with some of my NaNo-ing buddies and one of them asked us to describe this NaNo in one word. It took me a minute to think of a single word, because this NaNo had so <em>much.</em> And then I realized, that was the answer right there. <strong><font size="5">FULL.</font></strong> I’d describe this NaNo as full. Full of hard days, full of amazing days, full of all around cRaZy days, full of sleepless nights, full of emotions good and bad, full of words. Just very, very full in every sense of the word.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I think that’s what makes NaNo so special. It is an experience, and though sometimes it’ll make you want to pull your hair out and wonder whyyyyy you took on such a ridiculous challenge, in the end, the memories made, lessons learned, good writing habits formed, and novels created is invaluable.</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5">I’d definitely call my 9th NaNoWriMo a success. I’m already looking forward to next year!</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/MbGQuT9bJ6gRXD5SJrPw1SkapkiIA8bDklry3VB8E69QELvS3mU_Wd_btR7wa-tUkOD6KG4z7vK8AdgpILLn6Dnh1hHlNUtyt0qel_FQMGrISfZlwZggiacrXN2TfFJnyRTBypOm63l5cBVBtjWvnvH0RdNe3ozW_i_ZxyI7yvWAIE3aeM_2FjxQg7GzvytPlrPEoj5rwsNwrkxdGpD1Iz1s-j-03K5NXLigm-xiIyn1x4DoBf-730zyD4c5N9yAVy0QSHsgVOkVgSGpRl2kUgb5CPBNazD_PL03pxr6EXHdAquNF8ZKgi5Yje6NeHj2x1V05YlOAuLmYiE_v4OfOw8yX0L_t069kEWSKULBfn8FQygzH6rZIhEf6udALGzXQkOQAHarWMPK5ADlXPc085DvcJ3OmvK3htLL6SpbJfiKKZiYSTLS5jAP2L0CJzbeAU-FJxmetY6rdkb39nKLgcBKoV9GLn3Ap3nCP92XfFUjNUhViKyPF5ZZ_S_OIAJejezNG7q1ckPHZDqP8E4Sw8iFs0sGgrinq2_DnsHtANslTq192QmPpDj7MThe0giNcJjCQVsvsrWeInhJ3HXt7tg6YfayrQo0gOjvS798NuuJ8vTwpuYz8W5QA4UZZ2CmVNIz-b1MOwbgsKYf0e6xLJ2yZ-R7XIHlKYm1DNYwoWN-LKI3IBxImwkn8peAn7JqccKSZVgeC-ag790QqQ=w1500-h500-no" width="600" height="203"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Buuut we’re not quite through with the NaNo talk yet. Yeeeah. You guys are gonna have to put up with it for just a bit longer, because<strong> next Monday I’ll be posting the 3rd and final installment of the </strong><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/know-novel-part-1-introductory-new.html" target="_blank"><strong>Know the Novel</strong></a><strong> linkup!</strong> And will hopefully be answering questions about it for <em>Kings Bleed Gold</em> soon after. Hope you don’t mind!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But seriously. Sooooo many of you have been cheering me on, encouraging me, praying for me, and just all around being a huge, huge, <em>huge</em> blessing to me through this crazy venture. I am utterly grateful for your friendship. I love my internet community so, SO much! Thank you for being the most supportive, enthusiastic friends in the world! <333</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Also, I have to give out a huge CONGRATS to alllll of you who participated in NaNo.</strong> I watched so many of you conquer those words, carve time out of some craaazy days to write, and do insanely amazing feats to get those words on the page. I’m so beyond proud of ALL my writing buddies. <strong>And whether you hit that 50k mark or not, you WROTE. You took the initiative to get words on the page, even when it was hard, and that is the greatest accomplishment of all.</strong> I’M SO PROUD OF YOU GUYS! CONGRATULATIONS!!! Now go, take a nap, say hi to your family, eat some well-deserved Christmas cookies, CELEBRATE, because IT’S DECEMBER AND WE MADE IT TO THE FINISH LINE!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/4GlAiBBtc7dW-QO7iyPqcNZivKZ8IgTH9LYCSRHcxl9Z_dKZeQ9QyZNBIZB5fZ7x-by4mF7RjL8p2hsTjHuCjrD6Z2beALCQVTfzwk1jamaKak_J5PH8MMG3OeeJTB8eO4z-USIeCsAPo5W4OPNETnM8D9MxC2-2AddYZ2WxxAVkC1sL4kxCd_bsCRBn9_2oyMFxF-LleLZaA6K6v7d-FQVXqJJlJ9JY0bL1dwcmo6B6neUMxGo2tL_8FIyINzTeWjiclFyOKyde4yuhjx8AZyIYA0CpjrhzqkvWzNKKdvEZKXo6ldeg7YD0kh-EePuqvMbxlduOsLAl3Sl3LJoYkus0D_u_rqZKDXQ2GUKisR-Q1z8s4gU5JwTEa2TeDsOCZGcrBm17hP-LZgR4J8hih2ChVqe6F0VKH-joyBr_1UVajip1E4DI_PLkmuCwCcvu1gGLhm8zj-8pvnVr4gcyulmL7sa1dYP_pZ9Bt8QiwOWPPjatIzFQ_2FbfoDLgP1Y32cfT2P3VnMV6l0YzmFPN_iO7t4SvFC_V3K1Y6aaSAX9lyJhQbbWpEjEA3Ni-8aN89tdHyqe4YeKTbB7EU-6IcB6vZumZbDCLXIxhfUneeAWkZcl9tr_F9flvSRgkjYcmwEiIHk5yUBL6blMvmPcLdTbrg98CrfwhPD9G0xxbV3ctuM0b6-XIPi3hvOx1gowcz_SDNnaY3MpoovmsQ=w250-h187-no" width="350" height="265"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XQhDAWeMHuoWo8XzNN0dycBDRO5vO2Z1OoZCDxuFqTnDJR8WBJi_YlJUClNUUalPOUEwej9_ip3SDs5uiq9JX80-VxYuz6lwi4jOYIgJLmjB-9rpUFjx67EGcmmGh7dDCeeNZ_g_XHSvy0ABrWpLpZBp8KE9S3p7KoFE27qvD3_zzu4gFavoQz9afTjxEybXwviFLldPLHyWua6bpbb2tJI5hdLieSTk7PNlETNeUticR-YaZLkWE7rkrQXlxbz47i3VJlpoPDjixh4Eg02at8Lv63Pd4G52B_vewhL-rcHvjLCtLB4wHEqMifqWJulRvf3pFo1LzHmvotzqFmqH2SF3SJPYDPJDkSNKsUbPKET8rEhC21TAjx_ozEEhMXsMocUSrtshBq1so4qkYlsgylOwIcncQYPnBVA9ySXwIHmM-O3CISgandtNudDVU6XdC7vOtZcY4K4mjzBm5RK3VydZTTrLitalL5gMenz-H-d5wRM1j3lRl2xMZIgvozO0vpt7yLUxjyg_8h19Bw8xTJA7nuKZPJM5Tlp1QZEj5ZWvbCESvKwpHOFM2YG1oSTq8uwimHcxfS4U8RK6g42w9uI5WdeSrhDkeqcc1OcskTiBY0GZ04Qr-UuVe9R_WrWN0UfrijcSFpWo6w1nDsCeswUTKZMubW80LppUMyqgB_uyq78csrWl2YVm7vE4zlNdhsPyoUNLzOovOh2Cjw=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">If you made it through this beast of a post, you get another congratulations! Now TELL ME EVERYTHING. How was your NaNo??? Because I MUST KNOW. How was your November? Are you excited it’s December? <font size="4">(I AM. *cranks up the Christmas music…even though I’ve been listening to it since the beginning of November #NOSHAME*)</font> Let’s discuss all the things!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-16594482993832607872018-11-26T10:15:00.001-06:002018-11-26T10:15:57.563-06:00NaNoWriMo ‘18 Week Four: Involving Ballets, a Ton of Turkey, and Crying<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/SKIekxMDwKm8t556C_ynwL7uynorqAIqWRunuLIaHD3HhoHn0rqgrrssuF-3pzI8DfMWQrgQZ6PTZujguSTyNHPwLQrSj-1a8c4FWqF008vxL9W28D8hkWLMeQ_zyRAa_1CysWX5W6A_EnRnwp97uL2Az8AXVzA61hHLVjGGm1S1lYWzE86usc6l1VqFPlkvp1woh_cruM6uLvzcIeoLINQqoHkyNLT0Ge42E-WFtgQ5SKZTAlUJNfvXd0iymSa7LIabZyp1ahDkIAnVM5PI6VEBqDTAg6f8-zeXwNUqN5kmMFA1vci9A4laUgypAw9mGkEX6BN03t9ZI1qVfYlxq-nMAfcBZPXMZdRfIv7TRdjZ9_Q5Im6_SAVZONJbruaCI1rE5il8or2tZayAs-eODpIrrVfDmXN__xjt3LOCsufpgpXBmsGKQ0mlaaYMnAWDfCiT4I-ui__E6pHCn4efQggcwxE9WAts9cp7pRgVitfsTo8MSqVDpoiq5ebq8IpY7TWuh0tvSh71oK2v3_mC6iKYDOvSoo6gCdn-EDAt1PdzhGRs0_-yyiZcTweMsHowpXfhqPm_ZjUZdRn3QPfXCBpnKr56kjDc7XYyRpMA4lNUrTc4vlvHRRAC8dS499-zi9ZzLNbHXicq5c-7P2EtV3VJrDx-M5J19EhQuzvtf0kEltBIH7FRic0HkirO36IHANwPv3hqbdoHytK3jg=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">Um. So this will be my <em>last</em> post for the month of November. NaNoWriMo will be over by next Monday. We’re less than a week away from the end. WHAT EVEN WHAT????</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like my novel will be even sort of over by the end of the month. I thiiink I can finish it within the first week or two of December, buuut unless some magical writing fairy takes over my body for the rest of the week <font size="3">(I mean, if you know of one I’m hiring)</font> I’m like 99.9% sure it ain’t gettin’ done by the end of this month.<font size="2"> I bring this upon myself…</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I <em>am</em> hoping to wrack in some serious words this coming week, but this last week was the least wordy one of the month. Between Thanksgiving, work, and just general life-ness, my crazed writing self had to take a serious chill-pill and just scrape out words when I could.</strong> Ah well, I probably needed a week where I wasn’t forcing out 5k a day. Eheheh. And I also seriously failed to keep up with aaanything. So if you’ve sent me an email or commented on a post or sent a direct message somewhere on social media or know me in person and wonder if I’m still even alive, I’M SORRY. I am in fact alive…maybe. I <em>could</em> be a ghost typing this. Wild things happen during NaNo. *shifty eyes* Ahem, aaanyways.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>It was actually a good week! Just…full.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/uUHcESguhSoFKS7rB1Epni5Yr9VSGbrd_Dx50eVH6iCkV4cXIVIshATQCDSZCQ3KCiAsduZyKEZDOAMwO2RYbPo4jo_xfPxdFPHEHZrlWSxgbATbui8PqlSWxMWOvV8zlKkyRHf5aVSEQbPHn-CWtWNke6aHARCth9kVAbPsVpjRj3-mZfAPQXVLPIqfemXBOtGH4mJG-deEOpOZl7fwqZ_kXOyrX_91ZA4SaerKL1r3RuzS05s6b4elRNs7VfpK43Ylr7S1RAsnyJ2UpcHNTRURbH4m0yuWDJCsbNVjf6qk335FUUO7LgXPBYWNw8Gm4uMkcUqy9WM64gNnunLmg5ygLDo4csv5RaorfrdAe1-9ldNLLAHTkD5aJzYdLPfTMzWbbPB-8Iqcni6BeSPjLRUL9-fUH-84mScQna1q-DG6IE3fAig-dXch39INWbAMncJ5EfxJ0MYMatF1i_Y-o2ZMncwc_iqSYlKAWJ5uGewqpeQTibHb6HrdBs9lorNzUtp_bU-JxEcMkVs0bGGG4UggA7A6BipFaaeo5_9jrq5oej1KrjLswEYfWnFZ9h-C9quySHw91lFQCcAXtIvR_D0BQzCGA-RStXBp8vsYJm8h-ZVnMl_YmFnR6yc9YuWqycTQo7_AZrbBUxMsrBPGg2CJihNQTQqBz7Y3al9Y3cQJNQtzLjTvqiFcRsatyZ8Ic4mdJE4GenfG0A5SDQ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"><br><font size="7">NANO ‘18 WEEK FOUR<br></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/uUHcESguhSoFKS7rB1Epni5Yr9VSGbrd_Dx50eVH6iCkV4cXIVIshATQCDSZCQ3KCiAsduZyKEZDOAMwO2RYbPo4jo_xfPxdFPHEHZrlWSxgbATbui8PqlSWxMWOvV8zlKkyRHf5aVSEQbPHn-CWtWNke6aHARCth9kVAbPsVpjRj3-mZfAPQXVLPIqfemXBOtGH4mJG-deEOpOZl7fwqZ_kXOyrX_91ZA4SaerKL1r3RuzS05s6b4elRNs7VfpK43Ylr7S1RAsnyJ2UpcHNTRURbH4m0yuWDJCsbNVjf6qk335FUUO7LgXPBYWNw8Gm4uMkcUqy9WM64gNnunLmg5ygLDo4csv5RaorfrdAe1-9ldNLLAHTkD5aJzYdLPfTMzWbbPB-8Iqcni6BeSPjLRUL9-fUH-84mScQna1q-DG6IE3fAig-dXch39INWbAMncJ5EfxJ0MYMatF1i_Y-o2ZMncwc_iqSYlKAWJ5uGewqpeQTibHb6HrdBs9lorNzUtp_bU-JxEcMkVs0bGGG4UggA7A6BipFaaeo5_9jrq5oej1KrjLswEYfWnFZ9h-C9quySHw91lFQCcAXtIvR_D0BQzCGA-RStXBp8vsYJm8h-ZVnMl_YmFnR6yc9YuWqycTQo7_AZrbBUxMsrBPGg2CJihNQTQqBz7Y3al9Y3cQJNQtzLjTvqiFcRsatyZ8Ic4mdJE4GenfG0A5SDQ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9Ymy3B3wMYf5UvJNNbEk_HTIAjKH_q5vH-OVjYQVXOQzCkIxBwki13P8Kzt_qfnlyB0sg8BFkJPKOYeoSQn6WFwQr2LJctKhMw-wyNTmSfC8D9k8fNtChkZp1tDWdXcbUJhcJWI8bK0A5yuL-a043-W53g86sB3MyyvFCrVF_RxqSRk1eFKoIhv5ZoZd5zzvY4smWzGjVa-7xzDMUOOlyZA7Kw8ZOJKvoRe3hn2vm1y1ld6oxrlWMJH6a_mX_OpziHUiSifDSkLE3U8-hlmMANakfLlu6ckzossz2RuwwLs-pZsKr9mxw_dCIM_VQKAHBfeRPYOWpYovHaxy6M2-fy0YGnfaVmXRid77XW6xUcomPwYEJZKWoNDuW2zW2MdtCD0tIhig277MTCbBksGRQA8I4Eq-VmsWbRQyaLDnv1Smwfll35Dk1tu7O1i14ZtkzYoddFhLXIZOEimcQYfciE1w20wGilIelVlusYlhPiBr_Vx9K1C5z_azuBc9RCC9Haf2c5zEmH13-AGRxcJVKTWtqXroBYZ8c7qdFx-nWhex5uc2wLQMrFZRDsiNa3rWi8drlBs1pmNOnFRpmxcUDtsaybb1WnlZ-G9H8vOipXlLRHL4waBmhc7Nlh5UVfH5KGqaznha4CRi7wSWmoDBK_ku7DYRHv64CZ4G47Agv6TkJhZIGKjVNwK5aTKvcVp4sv7zLSav_S9L9KG3uQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">MONDAY: DAY #19</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>As I mentioned in a previous post, <strong>Mondays are usually dedicating to doing much needed cleaning and social media-ing, not leaving much room for writing,</strong> though I was determined to get in 2k this day. Which I managed! And writing ended up going really fast and fun this day, so that was a blessing.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Because, well, Mondays are…Mondays. We gotta take what little victories we can, amiright?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kprOVBveqCCSNfj3p4h3BdCCO-7x-HiKK24BemzX7A3_6NBEJ730wTDgWfgEASntUBdPZypyeYesJXRm0LCp9zGp1DHm5s_5RVgNnW_mHG2A2DsJZhnOJ8ZCblLQ_UfyP5JFRfPDqAl1Nm99wbi1xgFqfePJLvK_svs20OOXcy1O48dmJb6UOiDjE9sd835VVBCvyNTQfgSoHiqa0fBTiIOcSJiYcuerm6PsnbyWe6ok7v1jn0SKzqBHA0phP14wknVVlFIOySSwm9xa7weBlTO96YUlbvUr109HTK4KUtFztilUE_CbWHjqPMHaG7a7fglT8J6GY87j77idW7GHUxmrRxL1DwabfoZ1wpzyNkIUq0ewHI3PxSVLv-k5lV6RSKvy6K71dbOnPazT6NNBEDZZopV6yuYwFQmNey-u-kBlDtwCPf8YNi1EEOc5LvZOB67UuUeTt1zniFp0HMnsBbXGVtIrVriWPsGbw7E0DdJIO8Y3efxp0Dz1JccXOpxb7p2JkEnvZwV4ObFwhKDi_rM78zXa5YSSKumC5GfKnzxp-hAtL6cgxMtVOfxwdZ0oZodl7oKY0mlHGVtvI8dwr3lbLMuyZVn8wpEVC2kb0VaNsh4JrJt4QdlBAgcnIsS6Nk0XEhhmWGotY7sFPw2pbtsqg176nPe8OXhaf068swr56j7ZZXLmH8xpb-xkaylsNLJadGuQ_hq5uLaCBw=w450-h250-no" width="350" height="198"></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>2,020</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9Ymy3B3wMYf5UvJNNbEk_HTIAjKH_q5vH-OVjYQVXOQzCkIxBwki13P8Kzt_qfnlyB0sg8BFkJPKOYeoSQn6WFwQr2LJctKhMw-wyNTmSfC8D9k8fNtChkZp1tDWdXcbUJhcJWI8bK0A5yuL-a043-W53g86sB3MyyvFCrVF_RxqSRk1eFKoIhv5ZoZd5zzvY4smWzGjVa-7xzDMUOOlyZA7Kw8ZOJKvoRe3hn2vm1y1ld6oxrlWMJH6a_mX_OpziHUiSifDSkLE3U8-hlmMANakfLlu6ckzossz2RuwwLs-pZsKr9mxw_dCIM_VQKAHBfeRPYOWpYovHaxy6M2-fy0YGnfaVmXRid77XW6xUcomPwYEJZKWoNDuW2zW2MdtCD0tIhig277MTCbBksGRQA8I4Eq-VmsWbRQyaLDnv1Smwfll35Dk1tu7O1i14ZtkzYoddFhLXIZOEimcQYfciE1w20wGilIelVlusYlhPiBr_Vx9K1C5z_azuBc9RCC9Haf2c5zEmH13-AGRxcJVKTWtqXroBYZ8c7qdFx-nWhex5uc2wLQMrFZRDsiNa3rWi8drlBs1pmNOnFRpmxcUDtsaybb1WnlZ-G9H8vOipXlLRHL4waBmhc7Nlh5UVfH5KGqaznha4CRi7wSWmoDBK_ku7DYRHv64CZ4G47Agv6TkJhZIGKjVNwK5aTKvcVp4sv7zLSav_S9L9KG3uQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">TUESDAY: DAY #20</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This was a good day! <strong>Not so much for my wordcount, buuut my sister and I went to see a ballet production of <em>The Snow Queen</em>,</strong> which just happens to be one of my favorite fairytales (<font size="3">and one I realize I don’t talk about nearly enough)</font>. And I LOVE ballet so yeah, I WAS PSYCHED. Most of the day was spent getting ready for it and then going that evening.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Yq5OC79OcYjIehjD0MPBK75F1Qb38yDwBqMixWwjpwigkj9Gvt9ps2MiAIq3zJkMmzfx9bzqbv6_3UfMf69QWDldbFDRyY3JYsWJV0Ox1454_IRCL_kUZ1UzsfyKoephJfcny95TDJ_iDxRBvtPXg0sXUpxZGgPqrNEQHpi3aL2KX5l0cfFWVn_-q27H1zNeXBL2UEbJiEDFh1pA0BOQ7JAObbF6pQv-KeamB97tUdfgZ05L6eakuYAf9tTn1x7iwqnNyeCL3NnPWVHcZb5J-LiCnsXNDPgz6gc9-IDsXYz3Mr7Ik_acVgUhvxYbG9hLRR17FzVouZFQecnTsg5B5BZPPx7iWcQezNIb5NIRk0gV9n4pRXen1-KFRQiGrwgCRNsCsflNnrpqa4HCd0BDMzyvNYHIQkKEq7ZhfPiT05sPTy9I-qJYFc4UKCGXbBCVgLoRX7XP64249dUb4YM9JCHgTbFWIkUdjKC4CkUU8_V-SFgkwnRW2KBxoAXq2WXER6iHLv5-P4kn7ePHMbfbJ3qsUZSeRgJW3m1PGW1EXVBvjgFbpXnHdHDJu_Nw6WjRAV8faZaftu9t1gFKN8Bf0NN5FZDHcowz62463egiLY7GiMWCw1FSqTO1miiK-kw8BSuaSePpHlCt2h6TUHpwHBCYnDU3Y66u2WEIEVBVjT6GNfdwZQtD-Ayiw9NksTWTJh8ssI0jkqXocuLEfg=w1016-h915-no" width="400" height="361"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>It was such a fun production! We very much enjoyed ourselves. And I needed that. <strong>I fear I’ve been so busy writing, I’ve sort of been starving myself of entertainment. Going to a fun ballet based on a fairytale I love was <em>just</em> the inspiration I needed.</strong> It filled up my poor, nearly empty creative tank and made me anxious to get back to writing. Except I had work the next day and we got home late so I didn’t get to write until Wednesday evening buuut still. It was good to go out and soak up some entertainment.</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>2,006</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9Ymy3B3wMYf5UvJNNbEk_HTIAjKH_q5vH-OVjYQVXOQzCkIxBwki13P8Kzt_qfnlyB0sg8BFkJPKOYeoSQn6WFwQr2LJctKhMw-wyNTmSfC8D9k8fNtChkZp1tDWdXcbUJhcJWI8bK0A5yuL-a043-W53g86sB3MyyvFCrVF_RxqSRk1eFKoIhv5ZoZd5zzvY4smWzGjVa-7xzDMUOOlyZA7Kw8ZOJKvoRe3hn2vm1y1ld6oxrlWMJH6a_mX_OpziHUiSifDSkLE3U8-hlmMANakfLlu6ckzossz2RuwwLs-pZsKr9mxw_dCIM_VQKAHBfeRPYOWpYovHaxy6M2-fy0YGnfaVmXRid77XW6xUcomPwYEJZKWoNDuW2zW2MdtCD0tIhig277MTCbBksGRQA8I4Eq-VmsWbRQyaLDnv1Smwfll35Dk1tu7O1i14ZtkzYoddFhLXIZOEimcQYfciE1w20wGilIelVlusYlhPiBr_Vx9K1C5z_azuBc9RCC9Haf2c5zEmH13-AGRxcJVKTWtqXroBYZ8c7qdFx-nWhex5uc2wLQMrFZRDsiNa3rWi8drlBs1pmNOnFRpmxcUDtsaybb1WnlZ-G9H8vOipXlLRHL4waBmhc7Nlh5UVfH5KGqaznha4CRi7wSWmoDBK_ku7DYRHv64CZ4G47Agv6TkJhZIGKjVNwK5aTKvcVp4sv7zLSav_S9L9KG3uQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">WEDNESDAY: DAY #21</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Like I said, I had work this day, but it was a quiet day, <strong>which allowed me time to devour my review copy of <em>Falling Snow</em> by </strong><a href="https://inkcalamities.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Skye Hoffert</strong></a><strong>.</strong> This is the first novella in Rooglewood’s <em>Five Poisoned Apples</em> Snow White retelling anthology <font size="3">(well <em>that</em> was a mouthful)</font>. I got the utter DELIGHT of being an influencer reader of <em>Falling Snow</em> and aaaahhhhhh, GUYS. I LOVED IT SO MUCH. <strong>You can read my flaily review on </strong><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39697144-five-poisoned-apples" target="_blank"><strong>GoodReads</strong></a><strong> </strong><font size="3">(and add the book to your TBR while you’re there *wink, wink* *nudge, nudge*)</font>. <strong>The book releases DECEMBER 1ST.</strong> SO CLOOOSE!!!! I am a bit excited, if you can’t tell.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39697144-five-poisoned-apples" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xKorAR4zdLhGal7GYKJZMk8KOCLyPUn7Ua8rXUKNkbCyj8S--UvQh61Zm6yVkxh675hOUJIe1ozPlJ1bQCQU3o9KXFA86hASzd4VbGt_DeaXFxcQJs4MSq2VpI7qGRoZHXesNrbKr4h40tcOXU-SOTOAZyuwuiDiw335jmSiY0GDwNK4Ce__3SNaKnfFKtZyBWxdz8uv61S4MIi6sV36vR5huPCBbVkxLcgaXQ1OSkzbq4jsJ8Rmimns9u9Q7-Imad4rw7BtBTPVb4OTNBWELJ7dgOPUMLMX1Td40WMut9VyU7aFNjpIDLr5KUa6doWmREtaVM9e0wAZ6bXMfiiqujr2K9TUyDfRvSBvVty3Szwz5dDbBEG6g2hgPHyIP05JLcH8Vzc8VXRKYwbj6yTIYWNvBwWUp_QED15gs5zLDfI2K9Jx5epjrHNY65subtZ4sAtkYKsnj9KIrhc3j2jjtU0r3ErLO42rzGYkbIf-95Tm-zA6_XYfaIg3qN_QX68Si6kXECa2OS_JhbZksviSH5MbMNNLShrzH9yJQvzZo7OBLNSMY017YXyKwXd2KYMXrsV1In44wz8kt_Zq5XOmWY7dDiWOzK8Ok0e0IUXO0-u4iRTQak5HutwhgwkuxRFQ-q_fqnaZuuvBB4mvenRC-LzWCxJdQDZ5AY4DFBsvIaa9XQwIp9bTUk1bpbh07ORGA7DHsEFLF7dG9e-Uxw=w310-h475-no" width="250" height="379"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><br>ANYWAYS. I have a confession to make… <strong>I, erm, have not read <em>anything</em> since NaNo started.</strong> Yeah. I went 20 days without reading. o.o Remember how I said I’ve been starving myself of entertainment? Yepppp. And I should probably read <em>more</em> during NaNo than I do any other month, because I always write better and am more inspired to write the more I’m reading. Yet, every NaNo, without fail, I end up hardly picking up a single book. Nine NaNos and I still haven’t learned my lesson. <font size="2">Someonehelpme.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>All that to say, getting to just sit down and <em>read</em> for a while was gloooorious.</strong> And I LOVED THAT NOVELLA SO VERY MUCH. I was in a good mood all the rest of the day after reading it, and between it and the ballet the night before, I was <em>so</em> ready to write. I didn’t get a whole lot written because I was pretty tired, but I was happy with what I got.</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>2,004</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9Ymy3B3wMYf5UvJNNbEk_HTIAjKH_q5vH-OVjYQVXOQzCkIxBwki13P8Kzt_qfnlyB0sg8BFkJPKOYeoSQn6WFwQr2LJctKhMw-wyNTmSfC8D9k8fNtChkZp1tDWdXcbUJhcJWI8bK0A5yuL-a043-W53g86sB3MyyvFCrVF_RxqSRk1eFKoIhv5ZoZd5zzvY4smWzGjVa-7xzDMUOOlyZA7Kw8ZOJKvoRe3hn2vm1y1ld6oxrlWMJH6a_mX_OpziHUiSifDSkLE3U8-hlmMANakfLlu6ckzossz2RuwwLs-pZsKr9mxw_dCIM_VQKAHBfeRPYOWpYovHaxy6M2-fy0YGnfaVmXRid77XW6xUcomPwYEJZKWoNDuW2zW2MdtCD0tIhig277MTCbBksGRQA8I4Eq-VmsWbRQyaLDnv1Smwfll35Dk1tu7O1i14ZtkzYoddFhLXIZOEimcQYfciE1w20wGilIelVlusYlhPiBr_Vx9K1C5z_azuBc9RCC9Haf2c5zEmH13-AGRxcJVKTWtqXroBYZ8c7qdFx-nWhex5uc2wLQMrFZRDsiNa3rWi8drlBs1pmNOnFRpmxcUDtsaybb1WnlZ-G9H8vOipXlLRHL4waBmhc7Nlh5UVfH5KGqaznha4CRi7wSWmoDBK_ku7DYRHv64CZ4G47Agv6TkJhZIGKjVNwK5aTKvcVp4sv7zLSav_S9L9KG3uQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">THURSDAY: DAY #22</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>THANKSGIVING! Except…we kind of had to postpone our official Thanksgiving dinner to Sunday so we could all have it together because plans got complicated, as they do. <strong>So this was actually a pretty quiet day, and I, at last, got to spend a good amount of time focused on writing instead of throwing words down in between activities like all the rest of the week. </strong>And I really enjoyed my writing session this day!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Despite having a way too ridiculously long, detailed outline, I’m still very much discovering things about my story as I write.</strong> That old pantser in me is still there, I think, because I just can’t always see the full picture and every detail until I’m sitting down writing it.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Well, this day I made a very exciting discovery that made so many things suddenly click into place and make way more sense.</strong> Which is the BEST. You gotta love when your story just magically solves some holes itself, and that happened this day.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/f7oXabgg9inoFVuiyb1WqgmWYEuNuqgbwlJIn7qeptUXAe7vAHi1Rppjky4kRVyj-dHmsm4Ln_BZJPd5tnqfTePdyejGoexNPJPSroXlv-kao_32pOg7iLOWNngvsoKJtKQFQAdmBYKRDWaNvPavHNsdBuHGZRbwDXt5E57jb2dniKFbHczKl4vmtQcT3UswjtqyQ_or3dabKpPgeTYOa12tD54mvxxnO3wJvMNVr4C04DUMEsCZgqsMEcj6jop30yXuL74WMuD3JVDgCl0RVE0prwdKpupdd04KgXrVyY-_dCz8H9hD2C9R3je3-qhOo4MkQ1wA0V7Soulp92kTO2o2UMr9JMX03VozdRfamLfSDv_C0HI8wnyRqJT_SEZ4WhZRmQqbhZbkxrM_7_T8l-aZ4ONpLf__MXbSxwerSBudVdjx-DRyUUDS1dGWZIMfKzi011Yn7d0qI8wwogay80sgELZCKzz0AeRWvWCcX2-bj6BueTJAViM_MEO5ofr_Ef3JSqADeRZJd5At0okZbIFb9k-jrDTTPlEcDTf-tzu1rea26LMgNyDh2SygqyxKK0z37IAOevQWkQUjuc62mW1DTkU6nfSn9wsthwwVfeTE56zvgrQYR6XfA2vFWdRo7OtjUvJc84hKNnWQgGXe8DsDNykgsF3aGZwAV7puM_v56mc4klbQGAFN76y8VeH9dQlY7lYpRar-Bx5Ukw=w480-h279-no" width="350" height="206"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>‘Twas a good writing day and I was pleased!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I mean, this new discovery made Midas even more miserable than he already was buuut, ya know, that’s basically the nature of this entire book. If I haven’t ended the day without making Midas’ life even worse than I left it, it doesn’t feel like a proper writing day.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EbjLXagsgWnlsCGJPOMqIvArag8bmh_gz-2mNDc1tlITRaDja0jrkWCcnj1a9-G15xUPF6IAoT-40avG5N-7ho3g2tYa_l3uqHtPAxyUAuSxWqZcCJFxL-8LBTbeSmsebf_WUDXI4QRRKO1pskogEql7diGuwKs0BlEBi93c5xWvrxsotuSXPSjLmf7wvWRfi9wrCmvGWsUwBc7q4gW34T57_-aGpklAuwpfAkWTST1hiVjGkJ85lJDosdp2CsW6XdJilPdFSOIarISh4LEp2obnrWETeJeRdfuqHqDLsjFPPTKB5NAiR9M3NnJce_cBi5ZzpOA_5UkyNIJfL0_VVW9vuxVndGunTkIr3MiMeVE64XyNtekzIuKff6PBpwT7HqaYYnhtv39xuWTBF_yDvMwThdtuRe2arI8Cl1cQiqKpkv22qcPfqslGB2wlSOnvbZ7HoWQIhjNlfFrbJb-gMQOBq8VjaXj4_dl6deQ4ouy889T3CXbhc3Mqo9jJF88kNOkKgPZht-VohGj-FOcxoafG9Fu6z-dLJjZUV86rQehxxfOQts2Gi7n46a74tSmVqYkbH0LvAl-eCuxUjhHBp38S9hotBQ24Qkjwgo1fDvA2IT2j69jwFnw0l3XZ8aE-catIr9fSsuTB1TtXDbis4oZRYJ29h1y48IMVy0HNBhZEy3qlq7-1XE0p_jD8ExW4ksYKweotaVrqSpwV0Q=w500-h283-no" width="350" height="201"><font size="3">Me @ my character daily.<br></font><font size="2">(Except the days I stab them.)</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>3,550</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9Ymy3B3wMYf5UvJNNbEk_HTIAjKH_q5vH-OVjYQVXOQzCkIxBwki13P8Kzt_qfnlyB0sg8BFkJPKOYeoSQn6WFwQr2LJctKhMw-wyNTmSfC8D9k8fNtChkZp1tDWdXcbUJhcJWI8bK0A5yuL-a043-W53g86sB3MyyvFCrVF_RxqSRk1eFKoIhv5ZoZd5zzvY4smWzGjVa-7xzDMUOOlyZA7Kw8ZOJKvoRe3hn2vm1y1ld6oxrlWMJH6a_mX_OpziHUiSifDSkLE3U8-hlmMANakfLlu6ckzossz2RuwwLs-pZsKr9mxw_dCIM_VQKAHBfeRPYOWpYovHaxy6M2-fy0YGnfaVmXRid77XW6xUcomPwYEJZKWoNDuW2zW2MdtCD0tIhig277MTCbBksGRQA8I4Eq-VmsWbRQyaLDnv1Smwfll35Dk1tu7O1i14ZtkzYoddFhLXIZOEimcQYfciE1w20wGilIelVlusYlhPiBr_Vx9K1C5z_azuBc9RCC9Haf2c5zEmH13-AGRxcJVKTWtqXroBYZ8c7qdFx-nWhex5uc2wLQMrFZRDsiNa3rWi8drlBs1pmNOnFRpmxcUDtsaybb1WnlZ-G9H8vOipXlLRHL4waBmhc7Nlh5UVfH5KGqaznha4CRi7wSWmoDBK_ku7DYRHv64CZ4G47Agv6TkJhZIGKjVNwK5aTKvcVp4sv7zLSav_S9L9KG3uQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">FRIDAY: DAY #23</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I took it a little easier this day to hang out with my family <font size="3">(something I haven’t made much time for since, ya know, #NaNoWriMo)</font>, do a little online Black Friday shopping, and I put together my <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2347364401?book_show_action=false&from_review_page=1" target="_blank">review</a> of <em>Falling Snow</em>. Plus I was pretty tired and not feeling as motivated as I’d like. All that together ended in not a huge wordcount. But I kept reminding myself I need a break sometimes and to get things done that <em>aren’t</em> writing <font size="2">(I know, craziness!)</font><font size="4">.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But, in the end, once I started writing I got so into it, it ended up being one of the most immersive, enjoyable, emotional writing sessions I’ve had all month.</strong> Maybe taking it easy during the first part of the day paid off???? <font size="3">(Once again, I <em>know</em> I should take more breaks and feed my creativity often during NaNo, but do I ever actually listen to reason? Psssshhh. Of course not.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>But GUYS. My Midas bby is growing up. *wipes away tear* <strong><em>This</em> was the day he truly started seeing the light and realizing allll the mistakes he had made.</strong> It was painful, because, again, his life just seems to get worse by the day, but I’m proud of my broken, emotionally unstable child whom I’ve totally destroyed. :’)</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0dyai41Eh0YeE-wklQYL-MtQYAUHJfrYjmKNr-0fE9Z5y6506QnldqLNLZ9rSnOs5-jn-x5WjWEevcJ3-rTAVb6ffJccIFgry9FaIzSlr2tmajqNfzMt8MGGSmqfAcPx71M2Ix-Lk5-VHVZ9Fcxr25-hbiNDaAM9NOD3u6snJd4dYk5205OLv8uIxogms7nXiFuOlGxakqREhPZeWutNqwaynwoHtW8uQbKlGFOBeVSOC4xNTaC-osKt0R4gdSIfMIrZ8IEfaGAu5wWLyLDTGaXexxp5dbW8R76h9pWj5zCq0LHySOEM11aRT_pwvzpF_cJwq9PxYGHwY7U0JTFnUPlQ4ndYt61cK0vHEtEiDvV-39RuRk7OtBxygn26RBwop7IVgaqxUFdpkmg4iajmIgy9tzg5SripDJE0Np7DRQ18mTn-AXmX2BaYCKynNmnC0moCeGoW5MB74_QhPknGEDMgA2D4JDgDJfME3ryEIRhj1sVFBNpFx-K1h1ySGuizFUx8Umrr2dlhvDvBGb2cj2IkKGE-8hdsEGOeNdrwM1j2JfHVX4sCELm0y8p9s6fgQrQO6t839c6JcRip0g-ohDm56ASeCFi0pen8z2adbPkiFRjUkgahM_tnsc9joNMMP9nrst0EOPPJLPs50nhpFcFYxs-F5BsKGpFf6iVW3pMPuea5jDwAJBBuUtM3yRGxS1LVCqIUpHD2wwPk7w=w500-h281-no" width="350" height="200"></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>1,686</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9Ymy3B3wMYf5UvJNNbEk_HTIAjKH_q5vH-OVjYQVXOQzCkIxBwki13P8Kzt_qfnlyB0sg8BFkJPKOYeoSQn6WFwQr2LJctKhMw-wyNTmSfC8D9k8fNtChkZp1tDWdXcbUJhcJWI8bK0A5yuL-a043-W53g86sB3MyyvFCrVF_RxqSRk1eFKoIhv5ZoZd5zzvY4smWzGjVa-7xzDMUOOlyZA7Kw8ZOJKvoRe3hn2vm1y1ld6oxrlWMJH6a_mX_OpziHUiSifDSkLE3U8-hlmMANakfLlu6ckzossz2RuwwLs-pZsKr9mxw_dCIM_VQKAHBfeRPYOWpYovHaxy6M2-fy0YGnfaVmXRid77XW6xUcomPwYEJZKWoNDuW2zW2MdtCD0tIhig277MTCbBksGRQA8I4Eq-VmsWbRQyaLDnv1Smwfll35Dk1tu7O1i14ZtkzYoddFhLXIZOEimcQYfciE1w20wGilIelVlusYlhPiBr_Vx9K1C5z_azuBc9RCC9Haf2c5zEmH13-AGRxcJVKTWtqXroBYZ8c7qdFx-nWhex5uc2wLQMrFZRDsiNa3rWi8drlBs1pmNOnFRpmxcUDtsaybb1WnlZ-G9H8vOipXlLRHL4waBmhc7Nlh5UVfH5KGqaznha4CRi7wSWmoDBK_ku7DYRHv64CZ4G47Agv6TkJhZIGKjVNwK5aTKvcVp4sv7zLSav_S9L9KG3uQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">SATURDAY: DAY #24</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I had work again this day, but got off at 2, so went home, grabbed some coffee, and pounded out 1k words. Then I helped my mom and sister prep some food for our late-Thanksgiving dinner we were going to have the next day.<strong> I didn’t really get to go back to writing until after supper but oohoooo. I just thought the previous day’s writing was emotional.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This time I cried. Like, genuine tears in my eyes CRYING.</strong> See? I’m not <em>completely </em>heartless all the time. But it was such a painful and yet at the same time sweet scene and alkdjfljaldf. I love my bbys. <3 And I may feel a teeny tiiiiny bit bad about what I’ve been putting them through lately. <font size="3">*cough, cough, cough*</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="3"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0O9csx4HwqebmLNe_XF38p0B0kk5rwYbCsYAOSThoCBLTwRCmvq8ZGrRhj4lDDw3pmcnJ7KEQgMzIijN5T9WWx-U0eOjb2f5dQZEGb2GfdNdb-xsQJ0yasvcH7Kq8nyNK_-pwU-507EaFecFGrEBnecN977mc4QEvMko-nKlmZWcSlWXSdhebp1JJDGoKQo2hd9VI2XYHFphsEX9tNeU3oBZpTQ4kUfxUXAh74TVibKOJ9CmVDE8_TD6ySxwWqSRu628YpAvXNg-bnjXmwOqenre4dZdxd7SLtw-bHJIz3dEM2Mt7qHHGLzmpEkBRumb7j7A-u5TgdeKoFstHeieU_JvOqIHCT4R57BWc9AEEHSV70Ba3JI-tT0lfUpE88wMiwri587wamC57a4LmknfGCOaWKsJrHuXXQeMY3p5Woj-IkdhBJ_89n_p2qtaDnX7w7yewliXLN6RfWq9tHN_sQtWRl3r1ogkeX3HowCX9-SBfdR68eMjEg77556iMGvuhcLYQDZ-3JkW9NkE4DfxwpBjVHWTz7xkRozg8nbgdNhW4gAKG0VkVRdCBach2owNS1zi__0Z_BqPPkdbEFsGnftJDR2Z6aWCxeQD23py8QLb4UJDs0XoeSveuONrJY8vukjjdv2rT1c8lLlUz_rjtVqPIAK8C9zB4qWxKPNky9Umt5VEvpXct6uEP014uxtEKVPL-9ZtZvU3ZThMlw=w245-h137-no" width="350" height="202"></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This was a good writing day despite not having much time to write <font size="3">(and I also ended up putting together most of this here blog post this night lol).</font></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>2,684</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9Ymy3B3wMYf5UvJNNbEk_HTIAjKH_q5vH-OVjYQVXOQzCkIxBwki13P8Kzt_qfnlyB0sg8BFkJPKOYeoSQn6WFwQr2LJctKhMw-wyNTmSfC8D9k8fNtChkZp1tDWdXcbUJhcJWI8bK0A5yuL-a043-W53g86sB3MyyvFCrVF_RxqSRk1eFKoIhv5ZoZd5zzvY4smWzGjVa-7xzDMUOOlyZA7Kw8ZOJKvoRe3hn2vm1y1ld6oxrlWMJH6a_mX_OpziHUiSifDSkLE3U8-hlmMANakfLlu6ckzossz2RuwwLs-pZsKr9mxw_dCIM_VQKAHBfeRPYOWpYovHaxy6M2-fy0YGnfaVmXRid77XW6xUcomPwYEJZKWoNDuW2zW2MdtCD0tIhig277MTCbBksGRQA8I4Eq-VmsWbRQyaLDnv1Smwfll35Dk1tu7O1i14ZtkzYoddFhLXIZOEimcQYfciE1w20wGilIelVlusYlhPiBr_Vx9K1C5z_azuBc9RCC9Haf2c5zEmH13-AGRxcJVKTWtqXroBYZ8c7qdFx-nWhex5uc2wLQMrFZRDsiNa3rWi8drlBs1pmNOnFRpmxcUDtsaybb1WnlZ-G9H8vOipXlLRHL4waBmhc7Nlh5UVfH5KGqaznha4CRi7wSWmoDBK_ku7DYRHv64CZ4G47Agv6TkJhZIGKjVNwK5aTKvcVp4sv7zLSav_S9L9KG3uQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">SUNDAY: DAY #25</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>The week ended with stretchy pants and stringed lights. <strong>Because this day not only did we do our official Thanksgiving meal </strong><font size="3">(turkeeeeyyyy)</font><strong>, but we also put up the CHRISTMAS TREE!</strong> So most of the day was spent cooking and decorating the tree, and it was a happy affair all around. Decorating for Christmas is my faaave. I turn into Buddy from <em>Elf</em> every single time.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CyJPZrKBlJoZUAt-IyfixZCYFgrN8ca2ESFJKzNCBVE397lEc0Iar8n3LPnsOHZH04Jb2rr-bd94woLiZtO2cVagMc_ykucYDUeM4BHKXE5fJXrV07AjCgd24nhBw9zn-EauBVZ_JRCx5JLFNRBpIb_4oauvzJ0pkFvSAelp4mpOIxWAmQRa0HQ5brZT6BHJX90x7DtRmxCpR0OFLDC7W7-iCeQOMVbH3gtZ7EFhy8gqOEpSglt8HFOSi6VhTIVx3OgOlOjYaDj6wH_Z4H0gVM0yaC0EU4h7XFe5Rzvvu7lYIpXm4CX0GuGOSxYOiQABUih23FSFcQ746j1yu5fb1gMS5HdoKLjgqLUAsdmdbrV7JjZnJ7EwfCyXSxQvtUs56rXYgDb0wUVDok6HW8CWstnNa035Avo1eqybE_HvVprxICTqaBe6r8QYK5Y-3ervHe8uNTYVRjEeVG3HxZiidIbU1BC4AiB81XTuQxEneXfE0TzhFSqRWAm5CcuLozT_AkKRLOnbAtGwd6QW9Q8T-yg3uh4ISNr_dEh1qbNFRwotG2KLgaPSOFELqyLqRIg2Qn7-XhIs-chbVCHc2f0xhZ8Lt2dJhrSxkqVStwtO-ZtFCzKCQ7YM9_YDsqzvy0TnWZggzF04IwQbedtEcQ97K3UGrfQ9mu2SvO2D_tVkk5kImP_q11fR1pTQPCXZ1Cmn4dGccOHQ1TJgkzzwtg=w500-h267-no" width="350" height="190"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I didn’t think I’d get much writing (if any) done this day, <strong>but after supper I tackled my novel with full-force and ended up having so. much. fun. that I had a full chapter finished before I knew it.</strong> I actually ended up writing a rather happy scene for the first time since, like, chapter 1… <font size="2">*cough*</font> And it was a nice break after all the depression and doom. Squealing may have been involved. <font size="3">(I get a little over enthused while writing sometimes. Eheh.)</font> But yes, yesterday was just a <em>good</em> day.</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>3,210</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><br></p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rpSuRDszhBY7i0X1XR7bHhYLRaCVrESgLvr0FQawH8--SGTNihY6so_wsU_bJwy1TvHBnA86uLRc6LAHrwiifyaDJnVocHazKYPa8C5dNUN30KXSBXPbvgxG3L5VERMXnhua2TLw9TVfOKjwnfoCrVbODbp3hky4TkrPZ_h_W5nmtYxkac4OP0ZX0b1ACVfmw5OZtCTxcYQvxt_ee-jHDSv9KRiGFDZPuCgmLmMeUgCtFklNvifkCyMjL2e_7MKVeTtST-gzZ-qvDFCbhE5rI7DHb4nmi6lX8t1QkSmTacGhLMFr6PjsTuGNv9EAlHuu6D0RvBx6lYoWEnIqLZgqJWZQbdCdO1DEHBmvKmStyg1rJrlWGM5M5xzqxeopLt-KUSYFzvbg6J895Ogiuh6rqCQl03NiVyX4pf6pbbukE6nlMVUUEjrzeE6sU0VebzgbKLwsNW_Dc4uN5Vjr0KufWPoH6JW8070L9KR2hvcI8pPEXqyOMI0uRW2kZo-6B9kouaCJhQc6hLxmpKx4cT1PWnOLnZ7IUXGqBPyhZ0b38uY4a5rTm1d_Li8VBt9PQ--14Cypv1E0qong_W_HFMazFee8dFVpldRM8ig7BkGskoiHVJemIQ0bfBg-WTFKp7x1_uwRFwEooFiaMitN0iGSgp2EFoXw69G-uoai1PoseWpb8UzbffQ1lbuImziVAiUzPTmm92nIld5iqIp4mQ=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105">
<p align="center"><font size="6">Total Words Written: <strong>17,160</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="3">(The least I’ve written in a week so far, but I went in this week knowing I wouldn’t have much time to write. I should be happy I got <em>anything </em>written!)</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I finished chapter 24 last night and ended the week with 88,210 words. Annnd I’ve got 11 more chapters to go and probably about…40k more words left.</strong> Eheheh. Yeeeah. But I’m getting there!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>And with the end of chapter 24 I also reached the third section of my novel where things shift and change and begin to lead up to the climax and I AM PUMPED. I’m basically looking forward to <em>all</em> the next scenes, so that’s gonna help keep me going in this homestretch.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9Ymy3B3wMYf5UvJNNbEk_HTIAjKH_q5vH-OVjYQVXOQzCkIxBwki13P8Kzt_qfnlyB0sg8BFkJPKOYeoSQn6WFwQr2LJctKhMw-wyNTmSfC8D9k8fNtChkZp1tDWdXcbUJhcJWI8bK0A5yuL-a043-W53g86sB3MyyvFCrVF_RxqSRk1eFKoIhv5ZoZd5zzvY4smWzGjVa-7xzDMUOOlyZA7Kw8ZOJKvoRe3hn2vm1y1ld6oxrlWMJH6a_mX_OpziHUiSifDSkLE3U8-hlmMANakfLlu6ckzossz2RuwwLs-pZsKr9mxw_dCIM_VQKAHBfeRPYOWpYovHaxy6M2-fy0YGnfaVmXRid77XW6xUcomPwYEJZKWoNDuW2zW2MdtCD0tIhig277MTCbBksGRQA8I4Eq-VmsWbRQyaLDnv1Smwfll35Dk1tu7O1i14ZtkzYoddFhLXIZOEimcQYfciE1w20wGilIelVlusYlhPiBr_Vx9K1C5z_azuBc9RCC9Haf2c5zEmH13-AGRxcJVKTWtqXroBYZ8c7qdFx-nWhex5uc2wLQMrFZRDsiNa3rWi8drlBs1pmNOnFRpmxcUDtsaybb1WnlZ-G9H8vOipXlLRHL4waBmhc7Nlh5UVfH5KGqaznha4CRi7wSWmoDBK_ku7DYRHv64CZ4G47Agv6TkJhZIGKjVNwK5aTKvcVp4sv7zLSav_S9L9KG3uQ=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">CONCLUSION</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>It’s funny, every day was quite nice of this week, but my dumb, overachieving, workaholic self kept feeling disappointed in what I <em>didn’t</em> accomplish.</strong> How I couldn’t keep up with things and couldn’t ever seem to get more than 2k words in a day almost all week when, uh, that’s over the daily wordcount NaNo suggests doing. I HAVE A PROBLEM, and I know it. I also have the worst tendency in competing with myself, and last week I wrote 10k more words than this one and that bothered me.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>By the end of the week I had to take a deep breath and look at everything I did do, and remember the fact that I wasn’t slacking off this week or being lazy, I just genuinely was busy, and I <em>did</em> write when I could. And that’s the key there, to all of NaNo. It’s not really about that wordcount. It’s about forming a habit of <em>making</em> time for your writing even when there’s no time to be found. If this week was not a NaNo week, I probably wouldn’t have put aside a single part of any of the days to work on my writing. But NaNo pushed me to <em>find</em> time.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>And as far as having to continue writing in December. That’s not exactly a death sentence. I’m loving this story and characters, I should be celebrating that I get to spend a little extra time with them than I thought!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So if you’re looking at that calendar and thinking, “How in the name of Cheez-Its am I going to make the word goal by the end of the month???” It’s OKAY. If you’ve written something, anything, this month and have set aside time in your crazy life for your novel, YOU HAVE WON. You have made progress on your novel and on your <em>dream. </em>Don’t let some word goal take away <em>that</em> victory and joy. And just because that calendar will soon switch to a new month, it doesn’t mean your story is suddenly gone. It’ll still be waiting and ready whenever you’re ready to keep writing it.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>So onward! Let’s give this final week the best we have and celebrate whatever that is by the end of it. <strong>See you all at the finish line!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dxsz_p9Hrr2MmqGO7BsqxddHSXYP4JD3wgcW4MWQ8NIBFP3SAgqq-qjXU4e4feHhZYWW0UFnvjL7jMdK0NdBE4Ada43rNxAxJ07D49XfKzsWcaPwd0XaFTpiUWqwyzGnT0XWUHbhLBiUe_TIKrb1WuMW780IPunDIPli32C-jqQNcM6_5Z-M6ut0RYO3e21pWamK3zN-RnMonK8euoPnK2gWX4TIBnwQ370rGYD9bDVt56PijxpKzgFuma697z87I9XUsx6w3Hy4XqvlYvxPW20IqPX5qzUAKToKjxzHlChjfj1Kek-_DAcYCFfZk9MqvGsYIJrJjluwpCBBQcLhmFGGyUBGrOGP8ZumnbIT9eqfc9BjIzsVnMCITUac3hR2PMffFzuN1U86OLZ5JR5vjGZyOEZWVnXYBVP695S7ofn9Phjznf_wDdOrEsDxYEJgYhdwVUxY593TzvDkPUE8pM4x6DYH_nYW0Jev85ZREu27LY5nNAamSoLS5fHD6nKo7c0K5Eur9NCzJNzV55ppguB6Z7tJ-gchOUB0bl6CDqqiwCzsJPJ62eYGudvpHh4QT8xd6Sn0_SuZyY_cMPnLhrZxo3GIqUkQDlKeNPBbvilZoWKTiE84FLNYh1JFYQf5wdnvoJM5avxq6DfgWiJf8yIoyJtudyRUatTJHpxES4KEZiMudSE5WJ5wTsPbyr7Xez8d-l4D_ROLlkmUvw=w500-h274-no" width="400" height="223"></strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/rpSuRDszhBY7i0X1XR7bHhYLRaCVrESgLvr0FQawH8--SGTNihY6so_wsU_bJwy1TvHBnA86uLRc6LAHrwiifyaDJnVocHazKYPa8C5dNUN30KXSBXPbvgxG3L5VERMXnhua2TLw9TVfOKjwnfoCrVbODbp3hky4TkrPZ_h_W5nmtYxkac4OP0ZX0b1ACVfmw5OZtCTxcYQvxt_ee-jHDSv9KRiGFDZPuCgmLmMeUgCtFklNvifkCyMjL2e_7MKVeTtST-gzZ-qvDFCbhE5rI7DHb4nmi6lX8t1QkSmTacGhLMFr6PjsTuGNv9EAlHuu6D0RvBx6lYoWEnIqLZgqJWZQbdCdO1DEHBmvKmStyg1rJrlWGM5M5xzqxeopLt-KUSYFzvbg6J895Ogiuh6rqCQl03NiVyX4pf6pbbukE6nlMVUUEjrzeE6sU0VebzgbKLwsNW_Dc4uN5Vjr0KufWPoH6JW8070L9KR2hvcI8pPEXqyOMI0uRW2kZo-6B9kouaCJhQc6hLxmpKx4cT1PWnOLnZ7IUXGqBPyhZ0b38uY4a5rTm1d_Li8VBt9PQ--14Cypv1E0qong_W_HFMazFee8dFVpldRM8ig7BkGskoiHVJemIQ0bfBg-WTFKp7x1_uwRFwEooFiaMitN0iGSgp2EFoXw69G-uoai1PoseWpb8UzbffQ1lbuImziVAiUzPTmm92nIld5iqIp4mQ=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">CAN YOU BELIEVE NANO IS ALMOST OVER????? I’m pretty sure October was yesterday so yeah. How was your Thanksgiving for my fellow Americans? How’s this week of writing gone for the NaNo-ers? And how has <em>everyone’s</em> week been? I want to hear ALL. BEST WISHES TO YOU NANO-ERS. WE’RE GONNA ROCK THIS FINAL WEEK!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-15787490044784173262018-11-19T10:21:00.001-06:002018-11-19T10:24:26.334-06:00Know the Novel Part 2 - Within Kings Bleed Gold {NaNoWriMo 2018}<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/r5MwgVDQ74Y6-kBd-UKlB_ucFhCpQ_Lqw_H2QXzolrdrbL1PK_7PY8gWpMDm2Dl50GPssk1fiTq91RwIvhc-7tfC8VDHBTmEXAo5x1O8yA0DRynAodHmcf-jVgwkPkbn8ankVycJB3MN_jCrMprUqX4GETZXltXle0SOlcHzzrEf7zwS11yh0U_Ry5n0hQMmwJXhDBHmhpZKZlhfc8e5rcmV5Ed3srzEPabpU6RzcJfwGchL2wYouYKd5st_fc-GR0nC60HwyeX6d23lfhTkcsQkRjOw1L62ELi1QB6MelvlWZHAhz96LYXnzeIt9l9-N37lPRL-T3l6B5-xJ_Vss3I6d2McuD8ysb9dUAhIYudnm-2u6srWpgBpSg3HY4WzC3BjoaUu5wYFKMcC73fGGpt8REwaDEBMoIYcAbpK9tN3mk6QXQE3X5yWMssbAh-LwBL0ogiKFIIKaJQ8voZegrSOPzP8ccColKmkBlB5HUkzRL5Bk5LM-HgUToZPvCSRhGCkudPirlbIsaYOSxs_4J68KztYEoV_ynLXk03Bv7aaMKUe3brOVoN77hEvh8GlJl9GGPiRPreJfOMXHQ0xWhRTroCZr1ZHByaFyz715K1y8nKsROZ2BzSgDUN__x6bg6-DyJ0C1RIVbDriQ-pYKqY2UE8ScpCsGjxzEHzZ_-nsq1Qh7LL9Cn9K4ueFduHN5_MysY_x0UpBOPDnlw=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>WE. ARE. OVER. HALFWAY. THROUGH. NANOWRIMO. Not that I’m freaking out. Noooo. </strong></font><font size="3">Buthowdidthishappenhalp.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I had a prettyyy awesome week. A thing may have happened on the 13th…</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EzR10-AhwU0Lz8A52CCvhN3XflHjCywIgZzQAjNLXXzaVFjCROEKmdmT5tXR_T9FsHlrmRjIMZR9DF2hZUi5KwIJPoH9smmCNZLDX0b_9PSGNa93LHujNbMyiz7xtmqAn_8Tu1fEJ_eAXikIWIW45DuCSdFqlnrINGFOQOY3NO6v5HGha_4vxt1o-LeIllaAlQOrJyJmiW85JI8Zi9jqyc8uoOzu89q1tNrL-z85IDlKNShrRy4YococuCaek-hxv8V43mRLqsxWp93dE2DsvBvZakgXhCALP6kmt8ndZdhOXZv4ywpXDgpLGxCnFNYGl2iuFuPj07fDNPgCX7gu_FGSiufT0C5VEW6EQbe2mb0OAQjlD1rZA2sosLvH8BCnJmyyvseIRsjHqsmYm472jN1Ky0ZXuAOQAVoLXR-t1C5WjNZlu2d4xPvwcJQNixy0TQmPnJt_aBEAW92v5a3xDZezYU56afFOrJmXkoCANRcabVF3L3sq8HRt-POpz27Zhg-IaEmAxTJSmzM26gmhQZsJm88CP_Mdt1SyQsCxRjWAFmHxtJGJ8NLYG7JwRLYkCzCC9o3ifH6-27OZdITsGO69b38MkRip6nQqPB68XJBOixbQwjovSejH7usfCb5vx59IH5HgWQ8VE73Ryrw7HtdgXvcFjXYYyXQayfUI7BQvxsOP_ma2SHediQqwWjWr2MZFA6a4FnmIOCNKmA=w1395-h879-no" width="700" height="443"></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5"><strong>I HIT 50K WORDS!!!!</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This means I’ve officially participated and won 9 NaNos in a row and just…what is my life?<font size="2"> (Answer: I have no life.)</font> I hit 50k on the 13th last year too, so see? 13 is most certainly not unlucky. I also managed to write almost 27k this week because, again, no life, and am now at 71k words on my novel!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>BUT. <strong>This week, instead of doing a day-by-day update, I’m going to be participating in my </strong><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/11/know-novel-part-2-within-wip-writers.html" target="_blank"><strong>Know the Novel linkup</strong></a><strong>!</strong> If you missed it, this is a 3-part linkup, one for each of these last 3 months of the year, geared toward writers. In October we <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/know-novel-part-1-introductory-new.html" target="_blank">introduced our novels</a>, and this month the linkup is all about how the writing is going! It runs until the end of November, so if you want to join in <font size="2">(you shooould)</font> you can find the questions and linkup <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/11/know-novel-part-2-within-wip-writers.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/11/know-novel-part-2-within-wip-writers.html" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ugX8HGQpwWfV44_kr9L7SXCfZ_3WxGCfPmzB87Zcx4sfEvtkPb4Ao9daiabBGPannl_BAvshY-wJUvT3fBaxPSQ4avzuLmixWNJ_jGJgJK6uG2L5hFwFwrwwW9xu5Xz3kT4Y3NCcjQuETKsYRQIh1bGu_msITxQE4m-xjEVmxs9-R7aGhScWFCVUw3kGL42ISmlvtNaDP_1L3lnNcoL-xuH-_W84uT_foSeq44-aehTWv4iexz3XIxjuXBxbqDH-iSFFWA2jb9XZzcu-GRD5BeMmpP3evKQJSUX9G3ai8p0VvNnzl3zTsVC93wPm3CEZODQBPqj1dpQ5pZnr6cxCkdJSpHLKTldHdka8Bn8o0hb1Rj86DVrxtmsvUSe3fwYATiIr5b5VATrEKa74ccnllPaSqMzP4SMaDcV5bqrPj697PelsOKd6IQYn5Oj73ZPq7bR8Cz7pLc0N4psCl5yfQ5TE2ZlSKrRrAZBhVWnBQ8tTHFQPtoE1xdh3tYtqkYKMF8BXT7xs7TZnfsJEaxstxAczLG1GF6DuOstyrgH4bpb-3wYg8PSbAW821fukmSQcUoyiV6X8Bd_J1DTzfPjf5G_M8rQaGFAAglGSNgCOFDRkv6ZJTWuy6rfncT1Y99pxlfq6b4FYuHwraFgZkV7wgT2E25487IQD49PXIuv8AlPyDqi86Dp-bzqzuQgS8lfi25RHhlbgkF1ieNjRPQ=w1221-h915-no" width="450" height="338"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’ll, of course, be answering questions about my NaNo novel, <em>Kings Bleed Gold,</em> so let’s get to it!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zNpWlTRSCIdD051WCMfzd-XM4m7SfL7ya-RcYPIumunJd-dxL-plUKHvd3LXBy60JOSRYyBoN99GQrC9hui-ZyDvF8P8CrEHRnqM_LXgOK1vGW7QVjPew7oIj9J3gAQBnC_aDm1ddAHVtJkCQxOS5V70AVlzFGrKeLAGSl1Co9OdH8Qh6gBCAjLI9SW339sDk3fR4f_AESvmzsApwmLb_kYd7MJcmMM45Er4f6X_zPWUGuBxS_0XfOuMulFtpSJXHDT4rC7HnYiECeS6EwMesEe2LFzMgwqmL-BnghGHj7fegF5Jjjptzl4wlLFqIm4VLtMIX7_sEwzwHtHnvDJ9y3Gi2Lf_0ylUNSwcf5Hpre9QCb8_OAp01RQ344cCOCyz195rzuToWNNxDRqvLkk31uf9SGMsxbs4Dd9ueRvwWeT9-a_PR_LA52jYe0B4DIDmHSVYNVl8V76v3QuIjea6ArblQONyUE3LTksdzSIV8OPM-Jnde6hWqdwVagAiCv0Da1VrVLWBXTH_5Znor5HnTB0oRlmN3XCqQc_FTdqK2eCJ67srhWuZdd6Kvaf_-5H-mCCR4-0jg9G_cYgVKq26IG3syOazPtBfmJ48ai6RUlrf76m4K9dAnsfPX6doHhMZwqP5JQ7svi0Su9Nrv2gVK_e9rQZcnPgeIxbapfFTnNZQEVm1wlDLgFY8qXFswYyxPj-ZpjcJZ0uE3LNI9Q=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">WITHIN THE WRITING<br>OF KINGS BLEED GOLD</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zNpWlTRSCIdD051WCMfzd-XM4m7SfL7ya-RcYPIumunJd-dxL-plUKHvd3LXBy60JOSRYyBoN99GQrC9hui-ZyDvF8P8CrEHRnqM_LXgOK1vGW7QVjPew7oIj9J3gAQBnC_aDm1ddAHVtJkCQxOS5V70AVlzFGrKeLAGSl1Co9OdH8Qh6gBCAjLI9SW339sDk3fR4f_AESvmzsApwmLb_kYd7MJcmMM45Er4f6X_zPWUGuBxS_0XfOuMulFtpSJXHDT4rC7HnYiECeS6EwMesEe2LFzMgwqmL-BnghGHj7fegF5Jjjptzl4wlLFqIm4VLtMIX7_sEwzwHtHnvDJ9y3Gi2Lf_0ylUNSwcf5Hpre9QCb8_OAp01RQ344cCOCyz195rzuToWNNxDRqvLkk31uf9SGMsxbs4Dd9ueRvwWeT9-a_PR_LA52jYe0B4DIDmHSVYNVl8V76v3QuIjea6ArblQONyUE3LTksdzSIV8OPM-Jnde6hWqdwVagAiCv0Da1VrVLWBXTH_5Znor5HnTB0oRlmN3XCqQc_FTdqK2eCJ67srhWuZdd6Kvaf_-5H-mCCR4-0jg9G_cYgVKq26IG3syOazPtBfmJ48ai6RUlrf76m4K9dAnsfPX6doHhMZwqP5JQ7svi0Su9Nrv2gVK_e9rQZcnPgeIxbapfFTnNZQEVm1wlDLgFY8qXFswYyxPj-ZpjcJZ0uE3LNI9Q=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hnr-it1QO6lcHpRXqWYHK4n4FEljnAIxoSMwZW3NvXIqwiQK5bRbN1n9pKHaXO0hMlBtpnsVNGW8IAdfu3iKA9FbiVY0ndgEeicA9MealJFER6HMBnGrySm_NDLI9K37JXx8pJf2PiIT8nOf1SKWdmWfxPFoPfmlSrITG8PdW6n8qC0tFezqNeoZl_grDf0DPNF0rjNPGj0EXcXUV2PLsyJXYaFnpGVqVVj8RKhmsMDEyYzrPUhD6EWrtsKNW5xfobbB40DQAJm55OxfUUl1pLLtxWDgZP3ojOZGeVfC6umUXIV1j2eRaQaNlQkfSXNBQVJg8Ihyki4WJ1ssvvF3jeuMlTav3w5S5jal9d-D3wJrIv7e4j6EB8pUFzXExmPz1XJUv5UzfXKdEsTA8b3Ifb9Wnp0tOE1v0NKD6RpRXybdOnUSpBx5n0j-iCWF3pkyXV4LJuy7G1Ps64HJEywxHfybM4gMMaX5d4c5swJTKDOfLGWSIHzRnnXoFKhc2NbAd_fxyJTZQL3HQuHYBitvOQy0lr7bOh7zXKwqdI1GEdCIVS2QlnsRBnyO6EoR5U1rYz27Ru5iBx63bRr0UGC9wUsiFbPTNz_374uc9b2u9LQNIRDPHwQi-vYMILu3yob0id4s_RM_OK5fz9FnuV_nLEN58zRdO34a-oa8PbXAftnObu6o5Qa95al13K19LMV951Nn3b1cUKA-AuNhPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118">
<p align="center"><font size="7">1.) How’s the writing going?</font>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/tWo1HFFo4_5IjbOLJk19Z89rYdJ0j92YB4FDhEdgAfvvPO7COQIxAyhXMh9OhfvJdwIgu7c6D2WLMV3qREn8wAi7y7FNfy1weVrYI15VcyZoP1NtCty22gpLxkzO8E47dF83XPAZPvar_5hO7KCJ8xPER64RzO3evQE0gqNYfoDbFNA-7PrZyDs--Km6N6LvN4h3zjzEuk5o_qhypXdGx8laAikz7Fk9zJqq9FvJmCtdmkQBXUIGYmpBFcQlAbeypd_wc7m1NqCPH9SnI67uHa-5C-TYvw0v-bVwhkwCVEXXJkB1DPDRF7j8LYPA0LMkvjuRrVMJicLRVeZQTiOHiwfHZIzuUcRg8bYVyXhN4b4BOdnNhXwKGNzX5YHFCVjMDCEJApGWybzbe4umFgMZbT9gE9FPhxxgxyKqAnfQGAho4q4Ns3VBUAZzV-vJ0sCaLZur511fLSKZeIzQJyO6lVI5FH2us5f2EQE1Qlzxw7h-Gu_expQF8kWvHSHqJ-KtOHd6yxmwy8_s-P1ExO9w1zV5LKSMzMJzG5Z_o7dCvQ06A8DWTFnoQdBZU6M64TBFh1IeD860eZwT_hrnoZq0Xi0SH2pst3nPFM8qKwbUGjryg0NmEjBUjT21pqwQomFEBDLPqHp8nQ7-kKzIJ_cXH6CEIvrOs06lKVLcNxDlicRc1-kPE7GzwOAg7wqeG9UIr7jM0q5Y_kCGYa9whg=w350-h300-no" width="300" height="259"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Well? Good? Great? I don’t know??? </p>
<p align="justify"><br>Sleep has become a foreign thing, I’ve consumed so much coffee and tea I probably have sugar running through my veins, I’m writing half a NaNo’s amount of words weekly, am super behind on things like replying to blog comments <font size="3">(I’m so sorry, guys, but I <em>will</em> respond when I can snag a minute!)</font>, annnd I’ve destroyed Midas’ life at least 27 times over at this point.
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Basically? AWESOME. I am extremely sleep deprived and a little overwhelmed by how massive my story is proving to be. </strong><font size="3">(I’m estimating it to be around 130k??? I may die.)</font> <strong>But, at the same time, I’m so enjoying being immersed in this storyworld.</strong>
<p align="justify"><br>I just hit the halfway point Saturday where eeeeerything changes, and I’m <em>really</em> excited about writing the next half. So much drama and deliciously emotional scenes. <font size="2">Bwahahaha!</font> And it’s nice to have the story shift on me and get into some new scenery and happenings.
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So overall, the writing is going really smoothly.</strong> I feel like the story is a <em>mess</em> and I’ve already discovered some plot holes that will need to be fixed during revision. But hey, that’s <em>why </em>we write first drafts. Gotta figure this stuff out and get it all on the page so then it can later be rearranged.
<p align="justify"><br>I do wish the story was <em>shorter,</em> but still. I’m loving this wild journey of writing it! I haven’t first drafted anything since <em>last</em> NaNo, and I almost forgot the joy of just vomiting words on a page.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hnr-it1QO6lcHpRXqWYHK4n4FEljnAIxoSMwZW3NvXIqwiQK5bRbN1n9pKHaXO0hMlBtpnsVNGW8IAdfu3iKA9FbiVY0ndgEeicA9MealJFER6HMBnGrySm_NDLI9K37JXx8pJf2PiIT8nOf1SKWdmWfxPFoPfmlSrITG8PdW6n8qC0tFezqNeoZl_grDf0DPNF0rjNPGj0EXcXUV2PLsyJXYaFnpGVqVVj8RKhmsMDEyYzrPUhD6EWrtsKNW5xfobbB40DQAJm55OxfUUl1pLLtxWDgZP3ojOZGeVfC6umUXIV1j2eRaQaNlQkfSXNBQVJg8Ihyki4WJ1ssvvF3jeuMlTav3w5S5jal9d-D3wJrIv7e4j6EB8pUFzXExmPz1XJUv5UzfXKdEsTA8b3Ifb9Wnp0tOE1v0NKD6RpRXybdOnUSpBx5n0j-iCWF3pkyXV4LJuy7G1Ps64HJEywxHfybM4gMMaX5d4c5swJTKDOfLGWSIHzRnnXoFKhc2NbAd_fxyJTZQL3HQuHYBitvOQy0lr7bOh7zXKwqdI1GEdCIVS2QlnsRBnyO6EoR5U1rYz27Ru5iBx63bRr0UGC9wUsiFbPTNz_374uc9b2u9LQNIRDPHwQi-vYMILu3yob0id4s_RM_OK5fz9FnuV_nLEN58zRdO34a-oa8PbXAftnObu6o5Qa95al13K19LMV951Nn3b1cUKA-AuNhPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">2.) What’s been the most fun aspect about writing this novel so far?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Everybody say it with me now…</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>THE CHARACTERS!!!</strong> <font size="2">(I’m so predictable.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Midas amuses me endlessly because he’s got such a quick temper and can be a total brat, but at the same time he really does mean well. Korinna both breaks my heart with the pain and fear she lives with everyday, but also inspires me with her heart for people and strength of never giving up. And then there’s my preciousest, softest, cinnamon roll-y-est child Syram who keeps pulling Midas into crazy schemes and I adore him.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>They’re fun individually, but what I <em>really</em> like is the dynamics between each of them. Their growing friendship has been a blast to write, and it just makes me happy.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I’m also really enjoying the magic system, and how it has to be used with blood and gold.</strong> I’ve never written anything like that before. It’s been a super fun concept to play with.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Also dragons. Because DRAGONS.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’m kind of loving all the aspects??? I guess that’s a good sign!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hnr-it1QO6lcHpRXqWYHK4n4FEljnAIxoSMwZW3NvXIqwiQK5bRbN1n9pKHaXO0hMlBtpnsVNGW8IAdfu3iKA9FbiVY0ndgEeicA9MealJFER6HMBnGrySm_NDLI9K37JXx8pJf2PiIT8nOf1SKWdmWfxPFoPfmlSrITG8PdW6n8qC0tFezqNeoZl_grDf0DPNF0rjNPGj0EXcXUV2PLsyJXYaFnpGVqVVj8RKhmsMDEyYzrPUhD6EWrtsKNW5xfobbB40DQAJm55OxfUUl1pLLtxWDgZP3ojOZGeVfC6umUXIV1j2eRaQaNlQkfSXNBQVJg8Ihyki4WJ1ssvvF3jeuMlTav3w5S5jal9d-D3wJrIv7e4j6EB8pUFzXExmPz1XJUv5UzfXKdEsTA8b3Ifb9Wnp0tOE1v0NKD6RpRXybdOnUSpBx5n0j-iCWF3pkyXV4LJuy7G1Ps64HJEywxHfybM4gMMaX5d4c5swJTKDOfLGWSIHzRnnXoFKhc2NbAd_fxyJTZQL3HQuHYBitvOQy0lr7bOh7zXKwqdI1GEdCIVS2QlnsRBnyO6EoR5U1rYz27Ru5iBx63bRr0UGC9wUsiFbPTNz_374uc9b2u9LQNIRDPHwQi-vYMILu3yob0id4s_RM_OK5fz9FnuV_nLEN58zRdO34a-oa8PbXAftnObu6o5Qa95al13K19LMV951Nn3b1cUKA-AuNhPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">3.) Has your novel surprised you in any way?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>My characters have actually surprised me! Like…all of them. Which is a surprise in and of itself, because I usually know my characters pretty well before they even hit the page.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’ve already mentioned in a previous post how much Midas is surprising me. Because I was expecting a jerk, but instead I’m getting a charismatic, kindhearted guy who’s just bratty and immature because, well, he’s a teenage prince who can turn anything into gold. Obviously that's gonna cause some repercussions on his character. I also had <em>no</em> idea he’d have such a temper. And it amuses me greatly, even though it’s getting him in a loooootttt of trouble.<font size="3"> Eheheheh.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Korinna’s character is far more complex than I realized <font size="3">(which I’m not complaining about)</font>. Every time I peel back one layer of emotions, there’s yet another underneath. It’s actually been fascinating.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Syram is even more precious than I expected, but I didn’t realize just how quiet he was. So far he hasn’t had an excess of lines, and when he does speak it’s usually short sentences. I kind of thought he may be a rambler, but nope. He’s a quiet one. But it makes sense. He internalizes everything and has a <em>lot</em> going on inside his head that he usually isn’t too keen on sharing. Naturally he’d be a quiet little dude. Isn’t it crazy how your characters just become there own? Writing is weird. <font size="2">And the best.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Then I have a couple of antagonists who also aren’t turning out like I thought. I won’t say much because #spoilers but I thought I had their motives pinned but now? I’M QUESTIONING EVERYTHING.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I seriously think this is the most surprising cast I have ever written. But…I kind of love it. It’s been so fun getting to know them and having all these unexpected surprises pop up. </strong>Goes to show, even if you write a 16k-word outline, do a lot of worldbuilding, and create ridiculously detailed character bios, you really never know <em>what’s</em> going to happen until you get those words on the page.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LQXPZvGUIcrkv3TepB09mS7BcsJjprQJip3kVuvgxHtSflnTHTssvoPQ4qCSWm7PBRANVRDyF3W9u_pWhFQEDQ-jsXwaT8gfJeBfDZgBygVMdA1UHW_0h5MZljxojvAGq9QXy0fFT_viH2YPsCpPJIgGfSq1sf_27ZeOyQYakazgpl4uZgnfrRmfMXpIq-jTsb2NgG2vTRwklldScRXuPAIASjKvaOeOapzYy_N8NlVEdbqi2HubJ881N1kRt5p7Pr_y43bOX5ZXxT6DLCEESUN6g1pHJicv1qf5lNXN-CGrkQDaO2vGjjpoxgNwx59MGWFY9oH7bCxSAv77lGoW6gI3DpXEv3X8ShDWmj4F8dtSYdNJJcgumoIILTHTHIFI9t2GK0KvPE52QJ7kGre9uLeYTEisqZNhiFGzppX4edfHTFCkKTXWHFiWIiUZQ82-y03RW31bLdptQ7g7QQIonQbUxodSS8KUZpuQd2HyBPpMYrEIELng8I0YDNhMycy5yAeaso7DEhzReBG3riTeWfXm0_YFhUayM88uhjTu6J169d4xgmyqn0ZvSuDkNum7-VKgAziDu3RO-tW3IRIEe6_eKKYuWG1Y1DqYHZnm9zKF3aWAtkWuGdSG43Dtmk0JoH7-gKVsAQ0y0jwYF8LnyV-6vH4_Jle1pO2rm40NmMA0PzXK09XjPs0AjZ6YWEmlD5KWkuA1xvrnr0qv8Q=w325-h225-no" width="350" height="246"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hnr-it1QO6lcHpRXqWYHK4n4FEljnAIxoSMwZW3NvXIqwiQK5bRbN1n9pKHaXO0hMlBtpnsVNGW8IAdfu3iKA9FbiVY0ndgEeicA9MealJFER6HMBnGrySm_NDLI9K37JXx8pJf2PiIT8nOf1SKWdmWfxPFoPfmlSrITG8PdW6n8qC0tFezqNeoZl_grDf0DPNF0rjNPGj0EXcXUV2PLsyJXYaFnpGVqVVj8RKhmsMDEyYzrPUhD6EWrtsKNW5xfobbB40DQAJm55OxfUUl1pLLtxWDgZP3ojOZGeVfC6umUXIV1j2eRaQaNlQkfSXNBQVJg8Ihyki4WJ1ssvvF3jeuMlTav3w5S5jal9d-D3wJrIv7e4j6EB8pUFzXExmPz1XJUv5UzfXKdEsTA8b3Ifb9Wnp0tOE1v0NKD6RpRXybdOnUSpBx5n0j-iCWF3pkyXV4LJuy7G1Ps64HJEywxHfybM4gMMaX5d4c5swJTKDOfLGWSIHzRnnXoFKhc2NbAd_fxyJTZQL3HQuHYBitvOQy0lr7bOh7zXKwqdI1GEdCIVS2QlnsRBnyO6EoR5U1rYz27Ru5iBx63bRr0UGC9wUsiFbPTNz_374uc9b2u9LQNIRDPHwQi-vYMILu3yob0id4s_RM_OK5fz9FnuV_nLEN58zRdO34a-oa8PbXAftnObu6o5Qa95al13K19LMV951Nn3b1cUKA-AuNhPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">4.) What do you think of your characters at this point? Who’s your favorite to write about?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Lololol. Oh look, another excuse to squeal about my character! *griiiins*</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I guess <em>technically</em> I’ve already answered this in question #2. I’m basically in love with <em>all</em> my characters. I feel closest to Midas because the majority of the time we’ve been in his POV, but, I mean…Syram.</strong> *cough*</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Again, though, I really like their dynamics. Midas and Syram have formed a delightfully fun bromance, and Midas’ and Korinna’s relationship is complex and beautiful and painful and yeah wow. It’s giving me feels. <font size="2">Iloveit.</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hnr-it1QO6lcHpRXqWYHK4n4FEljnAIxoSMwZW3NvXIqwiQK5bRbN1n9pKHaXO0hMlBtpnsVNGW8IAdfu3iKA9FbiVY0ndgEeicA9MealJFER6HMBnGrySm_NDLI9K37JXx8pJf2PiIT8nOf1SKWdmWfxPFoPfmlSrITG8PdW6n8qC0tFezqNeoZl_grDf0DPNF0rjNPGj0EXcXUV2PLsyJXYaFnpGVqVVj8RKhmsMDEyYzrPUhD6EWrtsKNW5xfobbB40DQAJm55OxfUUl1pLLtxWDgZP3ojOZGeVfC6umUXIV1j2eRaQaNlQkfSXNBQVJg8Ihyki4WJ1ssvvF3jeuMlTav3w5S5jal9d-D3wJrIv7e4j6EB8pUFzXExmPz1XJUv5UzfXKdEsTA8b3Ifb9Wnp0tOE1v0NKD6RpRXybdOnUSpBx5n0j-iCWF3pkyXV4LJuy7G1Ps64HJEywxHfybM4gMMaX5d4c5swJTKDOfLGWSIHzRnnXoFKhc2NbAd_fxyJTZQL3HQuHYBitvOQy0lr7bOh7zXKwqdI1GEdCIVS2QlnsRBnyO6EoR5U1rYz27Ru5iBx63bRr0UGC9wUsiFbPTNz_374uc9b2u9LQNIRDPHwQi-vYMILu3yob0id4s_RM_OK5fz9FnuV_nLEN58zRdO34a-oa8PbXAftnObu6o5Qa95al13K19LMV951Nn3b1cUKA-AuNhPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">5.) If you were transported into your novel and became any one of the characters, which one do you think you’d be? Would you take any different actions than they have?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Why would I even <em>ask</em> this absurdly hard question?</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Ugh. I don’t know. All the characters are so wildly different from my personality. It’s kind of hilarious how rarely I make my characters anything like me.</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Normal Writers:</strong> “I put a piece of me in all of my characters.”<br><strong>Me:</strong> “Eh. They just popped in my head and do what they want. I have no claim on any of my wild children.”</p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br>Honestly, out of my main three—Midas, Korinna, and Syram—I relate to Midas the most…which is probably bad, but yeah. Would I do anything differently? Mmm…I think I'd be <em>way</em> too frightened to constantly yell and challenge the ferocious dragons who could swallow me whole. I’d be a coward, but I’d be a <em>smart </em>coward, instead of a brave fool like Midas. He’s seriously so stupid sometimes I can’t even…</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Also, if I was Midas I’d cry every day over the fact that I could never properly pet a cat or dog ever again since, ya know, everything he touches turns to gold.</p>
<p align="center"><br><em>Kittens > Infinite Riches</em></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hnr-it1QO6lcHpRXqWYHK4n4FEljnAIxoSMwZW3NvXIqwiQK5bRbN1n9pKHaXO0hMlBtpnsVNGW8IAdfu3iKA9FbiVY0ndgEeicA9MealJFER6HMBnGrySm_NDLI9K37JXx8pJf2PiIT8nOf1SKWdmWfxPFoPfmlSrITG8PdW6n8qC0tFezqNeoZl_grDf0DPNF0rjNPGj0EXcXUV2PLsyJXYaFnpGVqVVj8RKhmsMDEyYzrPUhD6EWrtsKNW5xfobbB40DQAJm55OxfUUl1pLLtxWDgZP3ojOZGeVfC6umUXIV1j2eRaQaNlQkfSXNBQVJg8Ihyki4WJ1ssvvF3jeuMlTav3w5S5jal9d-D3wJrIv7e4j6EB8pUFzXExmPz1XJUv5UzfXKdEsTA8b3Ifb9Wnp0tOE1v0NKD6RpRXybdOnUSpBx5n0j-iCWF3pkyXV4LJuy7G1Ps64HJEywxHfybM4gMMaX5d4c5swJTKDOfLGWSIHzRnnXoFKhc2NbAd_fxyJTZQL3HQuHYBitvOQy0lr7bOh7zXKwqdI1GEdCIVS2QlnsRBnyO6EoR5U1rYz27Ru5iBx63bRr0UGC9wUsiFbPTNz_374uc9b2u9LQNIRDPHwQi-vYMILu3yob0id4s_RM_OK5fz9FnuV_nLEN58zRdO34a-oa8PbXAftnObu6o5Qa95al13K19LMV951Nn3b1cUKA-AuNhPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">6.) Give us the first sentence or paragraph and then 2 (or 3!) more favorite snippets!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Oh, gracious. The writing is an atrocity. I keep thinking about sharing snippets on social media but…mlgh. Let’s see if I can find something that’s not totally embarrassing.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Here’s the opening scene:</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>Midas patted the top of the gold encrusted head of his younger brother.</p>
<p align="justify">“One fortnight, Nikolas. Just one more fortnight and I’ll be eighteen. Then I can take my place on the throne and after that…” He grinned just thinking of all the excitement ahead. “Oh, there are <em>so</em> many things after that. Chrysafel is going to be the most powerful kingdom in history. Just you wait and see.”</p>
<p align="justify">Of course, the boy didn’t reply. Gold statues in general weren’t prone to talking.</p></blockquote>
<p align="center"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UynzDuQbir0c8_wYIL7jzG0DwZd7xXUhxgtF-ypimZiWotj1ai-k0toTy68KjnnSDezk1HF-D-8FgjBb4L7VQx7-FLnC_ar51WQjJnjg7YKlLZoH4uue4yYpK0bulx_cOIdLRyRqBEBAJXJBlXclailaXOXftPucMDJmvHZaFZBv54fma0oZvBd8o4ZKVTkqI3XFyEJYQS2ie0XkXGpH64QqRfB2MDX_8Lhm-skIk4OCJW74Le8Jwdimgl1rLzfYRjRKb1aUIuerl8a3Wt2pAhfD-zijIsXwNRpa5cXKQfcWsQIbexb71A1Us4nq4nj7d_F4f7YvEMhPR1pLb3qToaNIFFN0NNNq7sF2FCTIiMAs0DPGG70yMWoQ3tURho19O1h-E8JQNE0ascZFEpmKj1DtIosuJ64H3Rt5M4k1rd3FAEI4F24VKCPQDLDYscpz3fWoAWl-iegSpO67tuuW2t28qIhrS7sBSLh4jIRopTicm1u-EOOGn0DBKeYtv_Mo1esO0E9PTCr_FlIMGCrRYg9ObJE4hdhcQnBKpIs7nGqx4N9AeM5201JQ0JJz9ONXHgtz7qZE8umqQ5ziCSGA3y7qJAMzWtCfirAfy03PU4gUmotIYnp89oeucofS5Kz1zVhYWuZMikcpDnEk9zUbeKDVVxIi1QdLLG8HkzoRBSJ0tl63wcfBw_xXBg5OxOWEKxYaWhkcNJ9qJ2TnHg=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<p align="justify"><br><strong>One with Korinna:</strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>You really are a prince, aren’t you?”</p>
<p align="justify">He glanced over to find Korinna watching him, a curious look in her gaze. “Well, yes. But why do you say that now?”</p>
<p align="justify">She shrugged and focused back on the path ahead. “You have a knack for getting people to do what you want them to.”</p>
<p align="justify">He pressed his hand against his chest, and pulled in a mock gasp. “Are you saying I’m pushy?”</p>
<p align="justify">Though she kept her eyes ahead, a hint of a smile tugged at the corner of her lips. “Maybe. But it’s more than that. You know how to take charge of a situation and get things done efficiently—all things needed in a good leader, I would think.”</p>
<p align="justify">“A good leader?” Hearing the words come from her lips stirred something in his chest. That had always been his goal, to be the best leader Chrysafel could ever ask for. He thought he was doing it too, but now… He cleared his throat, shoving away those thoughts. “Well, there’s really nothing to getting people to do what you want them to. You just have to not let them shove you around. But the main thing is to give them a reason to take action, a motivation more than just being told what to do. I’d say not being eaten by a bunch of overgrown lizards is a pretty good motivator.”</p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UynzDuQbir0c8_wYIL7jzG0DwZd7xXUhxgtF-ypimZiWotj1ai-k0toTy68KjnnSDezk1HF-D-8FgjBb4L7VQx7-FLnC_ar51WQjJnjg7YKlLZoH4uue4yYpK0bulx_cOIdLRyRqBEBAJXJBlXclailaXOXftPucMDJmvHZaFZBv54fma0oZvBd8o4ZKVTkqI3XFyEJYQS2ie0XkXGpH64QqRfB2MDX_8Lhm-skIk4OCJW74Le8Jwdimgl1rLzfYRjRKb1aUIuerl8a3Wt2pAhfD-zijIsXwNRpa5cXKQfcWsQIbexb71A1Us4nq4nj7d_F4f7YvEMhPR1pLb3qToaNIFFN0NNNq7sF2FCTIiMAs0DPGG70yMWoQ3tURho19O1h-E8JQNE0ascZFEpmKj1DtIosuJ64H3Rt5M4k1rd3FAEI4F24VKCPQDLDYscpz3fWoAWl-iegSpO67tuuW2t28qIhrS7sBSLh4jIRopTicm1u-EOOGn0DBKeYtv_Mo1esO0E9PTCr_FlIMGCrRYg9ObJE4hdhcQnBKpIs7nGqx4N9AeM5201JQ0JJz9ONXHgtz7qZE8umqQ5ziCSGA3y7qJAMzWtCfirAfy03PU4gUmotIYnp89oeucofS5Kz1zVhYWuZMikcpDnEk9zUbeKDVVxIi1QdLLG8HkzoRBSJ0tl63wcfBw_xXBg5OxOWEKxYaWhkcNJ9qJ2TnHg=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63">
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Annnd one with Syram, because Syram:<br></strong></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>Midas, Midas. Wake up.”</p>
<p align="justify">“Crlmblgh.”</p>
<p align="justify">“Miii-daaas. Come on!”</p>
<p align="justify">The sing-song voice dug into his groggy brain and he dragged his eyes open. Syram’s grinning face hovered inches from his own. He cried out and scrambled up so fast his head smashed into the rock wall above.</p>
<p align="justify">“Syram!” He mentally cursed the man as he rubbed the forming bump on his head. “Don’t startle me like that. Or get so close! What if I had accidentally touched you?”</p>
<p align="justify">The redhead, now leaning back on his heels at the foot of the gold cot, merely shrugged.</p>
<p align="justify">“What are you even doing here?”</p>
<p align="justify">This brought out his grin again. “I wanted to show you something.”</p>
<p align="justify">“Now? It’s the middle of the night.”</p>
<p align="justify">“Exactly. They’re only awake during the night hours.”</p>
<p align="justify">“What are?”</p>
<p align="justify">“Will you two shut up!” someone hissed from one of the lower concaves, followed by multiple annoyed agreements.</p>
<p align="justify">“The things I want to show you, of course,” Syram said, as if he hadn’t even noticed the shouts.</p>
<p align="justify">Midas groaned and massaged his eyes. “I don’t know, Syram. I’m really tired.”</p>
<p align="justify">“Oh.” The excitement in his voice faltered. “I just thought it might cheer you up. You’ve seemed…quieter lately. Sadder.”</p>
<p align="justify">He pulled down his hand at this to study the man before him. Syram had noticed his change in mood? Not only that, but he was making an effort to help him. He blew out a long sigh. “All right. Let’s go.”</p>
<p align="justify">Instantly the grin returned, and he scooted out of the concave, hopped onto the ladder, and was already halfway down by the time Midas had untangled himself from the blanket.</p></blockquote>
<p> </p>
<p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hnr-it1QO6lcHpRXqWYHK4n4FEljnAIxoSMwZW3NvXIqwiQK5bRbN1n9pKHaXO0hMlBtpnsVNGW8IAdfu3iKA9FbiVY0ndgEeicA9MealJFER6HMBnGrySm_NDLI9K37JXx8pJf2PiIT8nOf1SKWdmWfxPFoPfmlSrITG8PdW6n8qC0tFezqNeoZl_grDf0DPNF0rjNPGj0EXcXUV2PLsyJXYaFnpGVqVVj8RKhmsMDEyYzrPUhD6EWrtsKNW5xfobbB40DQAJm55OxfUUl1pLLtxWDgZP3ojOZGeVfC6umUXIV1j2eRaQaNlQkfSXNBQVJg8Ihyki4WJ1ssvvF3jeuMlTav3w5S5jal9d-D3wJrIv7e4j6EB8pUFzXExmPz1XJUv5UzfXKdEsTA8b3Ifb9Wnp0tOE1v0NKD6RpRXybdOnUSpBx5n0j-iCWF3pkyXV4LJuy7G1Ps64HJEywxHfybM4gMMaX5d4c5swJTKDOfLGWSIHzRnnXoFKhc2NbAd_fxyJTZQL3HQuHYBitvOQy0lr7bOh7zXKwqdI1GEdCIVS2QlnsRBnyO6EoR5U1rYz27Ru5iBx63bRr0UGC9wUsiFbPTNz_374uc9b2u9LQNIRDPHwQi-vYMILu3yob0id4s_RM_OK5fz9FnuV_nLEN58zRdO34a-oa8PbXAftnObu6o5Qa95al13K19LMV951Nn3b1cUKA-AuNhPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">7.) Have you come across any problem areas?</font> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Well, there’s the fact that it’s. so. massive.</strong> Remember how I decided to make this just book #1 of a duology or trilogy instead of a standalone? I thought that decision would make it shorter but AHAHAHAHAH. Nope. I’m like 93% sure I’m going to have to continue writing it through some of December if I want to finish it, which is kind of depressing. But here we are. Maybe one day I’ll write a short book for NaNo… <font size="2">(Why are you laughing?)</font> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I’ve also been suddenly having <em>the</em> hardest time finding clever action beats.</strong> I feel like I’ve said “she smiled” like 48 times. I don’t know where my brain is, but it sure ain’t here. Thank goodness editing is a thing!
<p align="justify"><br>As far as the actual <em>story. </em>Mmm… <strong>I guess I have found a few holes in my plot that will need fixing, and I’m not sure I’ve elaborated well on some backstory and how certain things work. Mainly because it’s so <em>complicated,</em> and weaving it organically into the story is hurting my brain.</strong> One of these days, not only will I write a short book for NaNo, but it’ll be a simple story. <font size="2">(Seriously, why do you keep laughing?)</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hnr-it1QO6lcHpRXqWYHK4n4FEljnAIxoSMwZW3NvXIqwiQK5bRbN1n9pKHaXO0hMlBtpnsVNGW8IAdfu3iKA9FbiVY0ndgEeicA9MealJFER6HMBnGrySm_NDLI9K37JXx8pJf2PiIT8nOf1SKWdmWfxPFoPfmlSrITG8PdW6n8qC0tFezqNeoZl_grDf0DPNF0rjNPGj0EXcXUV2PLsyJXYaFnpGVqVVj8RKhmsMDEyYzrPUhD6EWrtsKNW5xfobbB40DQAJm55OxfUUl1pLLtxWDgZP3ojOZGeVfC6umUXIV1j2eRaQaNlQkfSXNBQVJg8Ihyki4WJ1ssvvF3jeuMlTav3w5S5jal9d-D3wJrIv7e4j6EB8pUFzXExmPz1XJUv5UzfXKdEsTA8b3Ifb9Wnp0tOE1v0NKD6RpRXybdOnUSpBx5n0j-iCWF3pkyXV4LJuy7G1Ps64HJEywxHfybM4gMMaX5d4c5swJTKDOfLGWSIHzRnnXoFKhc2NbAd_fxyJTZQL3HQuHYBitvOQy0lr7bOh7zXKwqdI1GEdCIVS2QlnsRBnyO6EoR5U1rYz27Ru5iBx63bRr0UGC9wUsiFbPTNz_374uc9b2u9LQNIRDPHwQi-vYMILu3yob0id4s_RM_OK5fz9FnuV_nLEN58zRdO34a-oa8PbXAftnObu6o5Qa95al13K19LMV951Nn3b1cUKA-AuNhPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">8.) What’s been your biggest victory with writing this novel at this point?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Hitting 50k words was certainly a happy moment!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I was also really pleased when I fiiinally nailed Midas’ character down.</strong> Now I’m so deep in his head <font size="3">(being as how I spend hours there a day)</font><font size="4">, it’s funny to even think about those first days where he was a mystery to me.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And I’m ecstatic to have made it to the big halfway point moment.</strong> I’ve been loving the story, but I was anxiously waiting to get to this part. I seriously can’t wait for all the upcoming scenes!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hnr-it1QO6lcHpRXqWYHK4n4FEljnAIxoSMwZW3NvXIqwiQK5bRbN1n9pKHaXO0hMlBtpnsVNGW8IAdfu3iKA9FbiVY0ndgEeicA9MealJFER6HMBnGrySm_NDLI9K37JXx8pJf2PiIT8nOf1SKWdmWfxPFoPfmlSrITG8PdW6n8qC0tFezqNeoZl_grDf0DPNF0rjNPGj0EXcXUV2PLsyJXYaFnpGVqVVj8RKhmsMDEyYzrPUhD6EWrtsKNW5xfobbB40DQAJm55OxfUUl1pLLtxWDgZP3ojOZGeVfC6umUXIV1j2eRaQaNlQkfSXNBQVJg8Ihyki4WJ1ssvvF3jeuMlTav3w5S5jal9d-D3wJrIv7e4j6EB8pUFzXExmPz1XJUv5UzfXKdEsTA8b3Ifb9Wnp0tOE1v0NKD6RpRXybdOnUSpBx5n0j-iCWF3pkyXV4LJuy7G1Ps64HJEywxHfybM4gMMaX5d4c5swJTKDOfLGWSIHzRnnXoFKhc2NbAd_fxyJTZQL3HQuHYBitvOQy0lr7bOh7zXKwqdI1GEdCIVS2QlnsRBnyO6EoR5U1rYz27Ru5iBx63bRr0UGC9wUsiFbPTNz_374uc9b2u9LQNIRDPHwQi-vYMILu3yob0id4s_RM_OK5fz9FnuV_nLEN58zRdO34a-oa8PbXAftnObu6o5Qa95al13K19LMV951Nn3b1cUKA-AuNhPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">9.) Be honest, have you killed any characters off yet?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/aLoNM1FZcvn-sGNBcTdwWNK6tWVGoeZCy6z1KlUQROLO60Z3nil0RBZuzR1Lc626y2qlMtsfRChMDGcfQGgByb9VEIHPz3ZneCW38kV8uDPf8sIzcm1jPMooQzK6L99wytnYJ5ZKRbh3IXsPFLmpVve-a5ivC93p9qnFVCtDoqeiPVQ8Ipx58iV7abGaF0A06w5BkBIb9ZRKfnMBTh1q4qWB-jmUjtKyda1x1yuSQZEgD9k0rdF52JEEnXwMKrLX9ArE3AUyJtnWi_uTjDzOSyZDP9_U2aSHv8uwehyjCeIxcwY8YIky8xgKyq1ftWt6SiAIIUh7ZB3Sp1gX6L46fB99uZ9xH5z1Fsg0acMhWunDJDrew7JspiiqphI_INAac84nSouqEI7RJ910gobpXaOR1pzkvJg736kZgJsLbKS2GWEUPQfC6vcr6DAPoaw6tvftTv5e3wuph7-Ppl69_V4_pXAEjvW8XLlcrlyZsMPH1D1OTZx0fRs0lmwsSZIAUxA_dU1vxjEx2_FooB-a8j3mzohHs5dtMoJVO6P68vtvsPQ2KYX3s7Q7ubJT5demv1zxR4ye76WvOQ0cPgi9ikwMDK9WTsOSihVjHHYlIoFf6NGleeB_GpM1A2IuGYLXZLIaTNI7_NAOEBrBpwfJ14uLeXGyszRGjP7AHBiVn6dTQOKAnPnLQq3jJABYNqLh1Mpc2XygabEmTCdaWA=s498-no" width="250" height="250"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Aherm…her…herm…<em>hem.</em></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>People maaay have already been dying by chapter 2.</strong> And if that doesn’t indicate what kind of book this is, I don’t know what will.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/hnr-it1QO6lcHpRXqWYHK4n4FEljnAIxoSMwZW3NvXIqwiQK5bRbN1n9pKHaXO0hMlBtpnsVNGW8IAdfu3iKA9FbiVY0ndgEeicA9MealJFER6HMBnGrySm_NDLI9K37JXx8pJf2PiIT8nOf1SKWdmWfxPFoPfmlSrITG8PdW6n8qC0tFezqNeoZl_grDf0DPNF0rjNPGj0EXcXUV2PLsyJXYaFnpGVqVVj8RKhmsMDEyYzrPUhD6EWrtsKNW5xfobbB40DQAJm55OxfUUl1pLLtxWDgZP3ojOZGeVfC6umUXIV1j2eRaQaNlQkfSXNBQVJg8Ihyki4WJ1ssvvF3jeuMlTav3w5S5jal9d-D3wJrIv7e4j6EB8pUFzXExmPz1XJUv5UzfXKdEsTA8b3Ifb9Wnp0tOE1v0NKD6RpRXybdOnUSpBx5n0j-iCWF3pkyXV4LJuy7G1Ps64HJEywxHfybM4gMMaX5d4c5swJTKDOfLGWSIHzRnnXoFKhc2NbAd_fxyJTZQL3HQuHYBitvOQy0lr7bOh7zXKwqdI1GEdCIVS2QlnsRBnyO6EoR5U1rYz27Ru5iBx63bRr0UGC9wUsiFbPTNz_374uc9b2u9LQNIRDPHwQi-vYMILu3yob0id4s_RM_OK5fz9FnuV_nLEN58zRdO34a-oa8PbXAftnObu6o5Qa95al13K19LMV951Nn3b1cUKA-AuNhPw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">10.) Take us on a tour of a what a normal writing day for this particular novel has looked like. Where do you write? What time of day? Alone or with others? Is a lot of coffee (or some other drink) consumed? Do you light candles? Play music? Get distracted by social media (*cough, cough*)? Tell all!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>LOL. <strong>I basically write everywhere with no exact pattern to speak of. Every day has just been a mad dash of words every chance I can get.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Usually I don’t really get started until after lunch. I get some coffee and start writing, and don’t stop much until I’ve gotten 2k words written. I pretty much never let myself update my wordcount on the NaNo site until I’ve gotten in that first 2k. Once I reach that, I update my wordcount, take a bit of a break, then dive back in<font size="3"> (after the first 2k, I’m allowed to update my wordcount every 1k words, it’s the little things that keep us motivated, amiright?)</font>. And I just…write. I write in the big comfy chair in my room, I write on the floor, I’ve been going out to sit on the porch a whole lot. And yes, I’m drinking coffee, lattes, and tea allll throughout the day.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I mostly write alone, though my sister and I have been writing together some because she’s doing NaNo too. And I <em>definitely</em> play music, can’t write without it. I’m always either listening to my <em>Kings Bleed Gold</em> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbtL8soNN5ntTEiuugMkkxLJ5CYuWWcN7" target="_blank">playlist</a> or songs from the Skyrim soundtrack.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I often end up writing all the way up to midnight, but that’s my cutoff line. I hate updating my wordcount after midnight because then it’ll count as the <em>next </em>day’s words and, er, I’m a little OCD and can’t stand that. But then, once it’s midnight, I usually end up checking all the social media and things I completely ignored during the day because I was too busy writing, and don’t end up in bed until 1 in the morning <font size="3">(I usually go to bed around 11:30 during non-NaNo months).</font> Then I get up and do it all over again.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>It’s a mess, really. But hey, I’m getting words in, so that’s what counts, right?</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zNpWlTRSCIdD051WCMfzd-XM4m7SfL7ya-RcYPIumunJd-dxL-plUKHvd3LXBy60JOSRYyBoN99GQrC9hui-ZyDvF8P8CrEHRnqM_LXgOK1vGW7QVjPew7oIj9J3gAQBnC_aDm1ddAHVtJkCQxOS5V70AVlzFGrKeLAGSl1Co9OdH8Qh6gBCAjLI9SW339sDk3fR4f_AESvmzsApwmLb_kYd7MJcmMM45Er4f6X_zPWUGuBxS_0XfOuMulFtpSJXHDT4rC7HnYiECeS6EwMesEe2LFzMgwqmL-BnghGHj7fegF5Jjjptzl4wlLFqIm4VLtMIX7_sEwzwHtHnvDJ9y3Gi2Lf_0ylUNSwcf5Hpre9QCb8_OAp01RQ344cCOCyz195rzuToWNNxDRqvLkk31uf9SGMsxbs4Dd9ueRvwWeT9-a_PR_LA52jYe0B4DIDmHSVYNVl8V76v3QuIjea6ArblQONyUE3LTksdzSIV8OPM-Jnde6hWqdwVagAiCv0Da1VrVLWBXTH_5Znor5HnTB0oRlmN3XCqQc_FTdqK2eCJ67srhWuZdd6Kvaf_-5H-mCCR4-0jg9G_cYgVKq26IG3syOazPtBfmJ48ai6RUlrf76m4K9dAnsfPX6doHhMZwqP5JQ7svi0Su9Nrv2gVK_e9rQZcnPgeIxbapfFTnNZQEVm1wlDLgFY8qXFswYyxPj-ZpjcJZ0uE3LNI9Q=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">And there we are! <strong>Overall, it’s been a very successful and fun NaNo so far.</strong> I am kind of completely exhausted and overwhelmed, but what would NaNo be without sleep depravity and questioning life’s choices?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/vS4NWDbciIWGniCt04ZMbq-Ky5iNsPxAM6APKwYRp-iAsLvv_TBDz7Zsc1rJJaGgqCg1HP45BwyaBtf_S9SzXgY-Um4FjgL-TkOTSO7SmozXxPce7MeQH8lND_rP7SWZlZM5XTrOejVVz7PncyOpkvuYliMcOAzZXS059ma311yTi7a-ewqQLTgObnDMzePF8EefyBUjWG9hSomKSOuA_JZK7FwKyoMWWM0_Sa-CNoODofbmnMhRa45TXBmM4RM0uXcSdS2rTq9ISPZTzwzT1k5M-NemdIfLfbMFnqwjqci2JaX4WgsWefa3AcAbf71_BIzBA0tuP_JbkhpBVdSZH4c0EcvEWis686nmM3jhWxRniiXYbY0YeA_FMf_GjSOfGViejv-Po4HGFam1o89piVYbbwH1MBGXWIwoslOVeQc6iOvD8bhKqdSaIlw52n_AyPfUJjeIKdSw-fRZ-ZmetjHa3ThY6jOCtEY3Cik3geN6weYHtlxtu420Rik1l_8sdE_EYe1KwJtx4E3zvzLva4UEzp7iXSsTii3-T0NhE_3hjHh5KoTR_JMF7sR07xE74x5vD76xCpgdopcr43Dvm-dER2I06sE3LbqNmUC990fQalNyxTyLjgLeO6uyWbJzbyuaEadbqpKNBxRaeg65L3fHhNUR3AjuB_Fc2hFph7dW8adHCab5dJlOB9KgOrgnjhucbo0Vk69whN47nw=w400-h242-no" width="350" height="215"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>But it’s always worth it.<strong> I’m having a good time and, by the end of all the insanity, I’ll have another finished draft under my belt.</strong> I’ve still got a bit of a road ahead of me, but I hope to take it all the way.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Now excuse me while I go make another pot of coffee…</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5">Don’t forget you can answer these questions yourself and join the linkup </font><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/11/know-novel-part-2-within-wip-writers.html" target="_blank"><font size="5">HERE</font></a><font size="5">!!!</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/UynzDuQbir0c8_wYIL7jzG0DwZd7xXUhxgtF-ypimZiWotj1ai-k0toTy68KjnnSDezk1HF-D-8FgjBb4L7VQx7-FLnC_ar51WQjJnjg7YKlLZoH4uue4yYpK0bulx_cOIdLRyRqBEBAJXJBlXclailaXOXftPucMDJmvHZaFZBv54fma0oZvBd8o4ZKVTkqI3XFyEJYQS2ie0XkXGpH64QqRfB2MDX_8Lhm-skIk4OCJW74Le8Jwdimgl1rLzfYRjRKb1aUIuerl8a3Wt2pAhfD-zijIsXwNRpa5cXKQfcWsQIbexb71A1Us4nq4nj7d_F4f7YvEMhPR1pLb3qToaNIFFN0NNNq7sF2FCTIiMAs0DPGG70yMWoQ3tURho19O1h-E8JQNE0ascZFEpmKj1DtIosuJ64H3Rt5M4k1rd3FAEI4F24VKCPQDLDYscpz3fWoAWl-iegSpO67tuuW2t28qIhrS7sBSLh4jIRopTicm1u-EOOGn0DBKeYtv_Mo1esO0E9PTCr_FlIMGCrRYg9ObJE4hdhcQnBKpIs7nGqx4N9AeM5201JQ0JJz9ONXHgtz7qZE8umqQ5ziCSGA3y7qJAMzWtCfirAfy03PU4gUmotIYnp89oeucofS5Kz1zVhYWuZMikcpDnEk9zUbeKDVVxIi1QdLLG8HkzoRBSJ0tl63wcfBw_xXBg5OxOWEKxYaWhkcNJ9qJ2TnHg=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">YOUR TURN. Tell me some victories you’ve had this NaNo! Can you believe we are over halfway done with November??? How has your November been so far? And I do hope all my fellow Americans have the happiest of happy Thanksgivings! <3</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-3889629798990131782018-11-13T11:07:00.001-06:002018-11-13T11:07:50.928-06:00NaNoWriMo ‘18 Week Two: Involving Being Betrayed by Coffee, Halfway Points, and Making My Characters’ Lives Miserable<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1UrzVyU-ldN7i4zStSrFeyBaL17DIwjzGHmlC5ZLsLpnGLv4Nzfnzp8E-K-j3JxU5HVi-mweW-A2hF80PTbDlahqmfVLVv1pDPWzj7XCrZf4nLI8vMOIfb_vM4701cMxN57gmscYUcj41XFu42-kRD_-5qKMu1jPUilIpX8BUzPPzqZNgwNimP9uFJnSTo4GiTlaZy_dpUlFFOXWl4t-rKEiM9pif5CIRfWI71OBV62CFQta0LXL0Aw9jXBHQPIkMGO37SyDCdSiDUD_MPgLsuKyAh33-646cpOd06EFXZK_jr4SiuRMYpTY8FvWpFJn0hPouAi7sEQxEG3N0C2kfkXWH2aw7zu6W8P9rLIO2mX9IYOucgvPELT4rT2PweNHsP6iA1GJ6HGx7G3Eg1vT_79qYGYFE-pXY6n6RJm5mQn6pPNytC-iFq9T90GADkUOcJMX2Nn31IX8nFWEjoYGVJCDwoKOTL__UC6mzqTWFXgUnhO6kBAOzbxilxxbZ38dzlubUu1XgqojbDe2-DX0D_5mzRTV31nrnS2ar7HG1cBO5OtyQjaIXc0uisWr1uQsDOzJLpYcKgsZVROUUogM2T6dE0WG4ASrdh_d1p8agqwaxhs01gFJ4Psvp9V7o2x7kOR6ek9HAJZ9UCy40lTrqqYvzb2q-ihZqqSD17FAq3f-1-boKRtq5VeEflp19P2wZGXvKew3byum7oHxyNQpkertWtKIUK02VTLJDQ=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>WHY YES I AM POSTING TWO DAYS IN A ROW. During NaNo. WILD, I KNOW. Buuut yesterday’s post was already prewritten and didn’t really count sooo here’s my regularly scheduled <font size="3">(but actually a day late)</font> NaNo weekly update!</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5"><br></font><font size="4">(But if you missed it, yesterday I posted <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/11/know-novel-part-2-within-wip-writers.html" target="_blank">Part #2 of the Know the Novel Linkup!</a> And would love for you to join in!)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>IT IS WEEK TWO OF NANO. And as much as I enjoyed week one, I think this second week has been even better! I mean, I’m in a fog of no sleep and just see a jumble of words on a screen whenever I close my eyes buuuut hahahaha! Sanity? Psssh. Who needs it.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fYtZVdHStn2lw4mw0YO72IPTVpXpN8wgRlD-7YI12-3t6Rust2gqTZRnOU5tY5zBUNJKV66a6Gu9wGziNn2XUpsWCFTYvrmVS1BeG5nKYgAAt98c9W3lmJxaVJSTjSnaInza9mDZMoyw9WMXYju7sriexROfnXRqXgrd05zBt-Wr64X8Ks6LnHjBybKw2K6zs0HBI71rI8ve2ZwwJbM-lFv7mzKoY-3dql6SUNH3B94Bo3YvPSBw1VJp1V5unkQCwOFO14QEO3Os3A5gsoZmWKRh6-eGjkY7UbId1olpvd0t91upun5imD-0v2jO5j5GKBmhMFYIFtQSDIIwO-OC9D5V_ZD9f0ttynl0jxXblNeSL3iWuNAGiouN5wIanbkRmx_Sd6L0_su3YC310B59M7AGDnhHpfo5qpdLUu0hU1ibcTd33Mi0bTGjk5EDUisWl0G4Lv0x6JQDkjMDESeznuwN8VidY9TeReOvgkFiiB2GcdSUpzdrAL0lwV6FYnuIQq2q5EX-AnZ8gQHgOKLLAVlxvD6SCfTxk4D2nmBeQKd4d5E6a8od7ydpA9AO8g2J1Ys98kYRtu7EOI5Y6fZzNhfTp9mMCnLNsvEX69aCtpDlnyGHDZfYVhu9wpYKEDk_eOYTE0fwC6-bjdEhJFXEg7CTKke1LvMtFXUeemRXzhVf3HtYsYFDarkDB1Zpd5bsIBJFuyo7LBu0r5BKSQHigqdN-5iJ6nDe_qbK9g=w500-h277-no" width="350" height="197"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mZnP9V2-4ps3exuA3LNhqIBEHQ_iX9WONM6luU69rrVkHqArh7pex5vKEyKdySNtiKvelfq9X7FYnS1cBGo0wBpJ-KGjZRuKUpglhDH-aZ2jL7XKyoHdUf8iLZlCQYUr4Ytxj_bit6ft7t8znfNpE1yUEa2Zv7bktPjekYisiY6os54aLA6oaqcsndTl5ZxIzAVLPzH3-TQz2Ii65AggRDAk49F5HVBo177NrHifpYdLrGdrkJJT2WXQl6VBpJ5XYW-zfKwAMRpWyeZ2tps5iCQVys1Fa5uLCzuOHwLgeJManG_ZCHD3QCiOVxOoQH6cpI3YoDa03U_OmTLd2oFCwbuYy4pgBRFapcsavM3SsCQGoasKBeCfO6WpnwJ9FbTYkr_sRd7uMp2AAbsFbudjttW-H7eT-4x-TApbfwLiJSU2HAlLScFiOD6ncDTs08RaK_FYrnpO7WS67WFFVCkah0vJO1RANPumgrOIY37nP033dzFRjCcGGrs6uQKOD9jOBsIK5DnnmgRxXULs-Hvrt2sO9jMS3mvxXrl2xk7FZPCFHXUwpcz8erBw4AClNoWvPJtPAfc9Q7VCyYl9s-wZkVC8tod6lH7Drb0laH4lLaUqLfePrfXj6jzavI_S6zDHdOlrk-rfar1Of9eeZTJF-cw7mf_iNxBKAQp-HGbQ1fCP5CnI9TX9lz1Rx1Jok6NRtkFolmWT5r7OeVeCowI_GvNnDVE0zMcyANwtHw=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"><br><font size="7">NANO ‘18 WEEK TWO<br></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mZnP9V2-4ps3exuA3LNhqIBEHQ_iX9WONM6luU69rrVkHqArh7pex5vKEyKdySNtiKvelfq9X7FYnS1cBGo0wBpJ-KGjZRuKUpglhDH-aZ2jL7XKyoHdUf8iLZlCQYUr4Ytxj_bit6ft7t8znfNpE1yUEa2Zv7bktPjekYisiY6os54aLA6oaqcsndTl5ZxIzAVLPzH3-TQz2Ii65AggRDAk49F5HVBo177NrHifpYdLrGdrkJJT2WXQl6VBpJ5XYW-zfKwAMRpWyeZ2tps5iCQVys1Fa5uLCzuOHwLgeJManG_ZCHD3QCiOVxOoQH6cpI3YoDa03U_OmTLd2oFCwbuYy4pgBRFapcsavM3SsCQGoasKBeCfO6WpnwJ9FbTYkr_sRd7uMp2AAbsFbudjttW-H7eT-4x-TApbfwLiJSU2HAlLScFiOD6ncDTs08RaK_FYrnpO7WS67WFFVCkah0vJO1RANPumgrOIY37nP033dzFRjCcGGrs6uQKOD9jOBsIK5DnnmgRxXULs-Hvrt2sO9jMS3mvxXrl2xk7FZPCFHXUwpcz8erBw4AClNoWvPJtPAfc9Q7VCyYl9s-wZkVC8tod6lH7Drb0laH4lLaUqLfePrfXj6jzavI_S6zDHdOlrk-rfar1Of9eeZTJF-cw7mf_iNxBKAQp-HGbQ1fCP5CnI9TX9lz1Rx1Jok6NRtkFolmWT5r7OeVeCowI_GvNnDVE0zMcyANwtHw=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ff1-h5HarwzNoVVQEsrFjIfu-OKf42OXuPyXJGFEqbV0P8H-YjBQzvzbe02bm3o_qixsu9dzBgz_B0-RG7UMSfCTcaWtBd802PAjpGu0Svk-7hs1s3autBBHtUtK-rZhfia1hPcBHXSx6DHBodg8IB0oJgE4xC-HapPUILyc886F6yyvSlbGfoHXr6Ejbo0mDU443DlHGIO5evr-tRKUu-zUoh6Ld0O0BJhb1D5TrKIzGVW7CB3_JrzK3HyWF0eEkeB1wH2Rb7NpuPJf_9GZKB1lSQywEJdIB2H24wxtQidBBSBkcTHkQTZYcUJf8A6ScrgnqJoHS17h61pai1z0xauS5amJluElD9zdBa2bB7-dAA6M0k1NsrVIXrachHek8ojMD7rwxnw_KxlLN7cAZWNBjbxi2FQEcOPeL37glmq3j-bYD-U0S06lMUsVOLFgWzI4_gb3i1aQL6Uw-3hXWfpfO-40BLADyl-XN-vIua46Ur4dqVJL_ZWGH-2Dlsq6EzgtFDzNUXPbQD4_fsjs5dOGrsWTrcgUZ8OW1x7-o5MLPNWJQ83H3Nqn-zBjXdOrYD5w7561RaSFAUKsR3T-obiMgaLzJ_aRQ0OLH4lQ2BTBf8Jvj7PzBbCsjk3KtpiwAmzOV7GoSF4hX226BVJboJMdrErXQqvDK9TqnsXJKIol2Ox3FoPYAJcpJqwz44MhJ1YE4cXSs-8Ic1wBu80UNsBJ5TiyrC1DhePnUw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">MONDAY: DAY #5</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Mondays are already crazy during non-NaNo months <font size="3">(I mean it’s MONDAY, who has calm Mondays???)</font>, so during NaNo? Ehehehehe.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Most Mondays I dedicate to doing some much needed cleaning, laundry, emailing, putting up my blog post and doing a bunch of other social media, just <em>stuff</em> so the rest of the week will go way smoother. I try not to forgo these important things during NaNo, so usually I limit my wordcount to 2k <font size="3">(instead of my usual goal of 5k a day…).</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I was kind of dreading this first Monday of NaNo, but, actually? It ended up being really nice.</strong> After days of nonstop writing, it was rather refreshing to get away from the computer and do some cleaning and things<font size="2"> (I’m a weirdo and actually enjoy cleaning???)</font>. And the words ended up coming really smoothly that day.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Also, I was writing about one of Midas’ worst days of his life <font size="2">(<em>so far</em> bwahahaha)</font> that day, so, like, he was having a very Mondayish day himself.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I mean, this is the first paragraph of the chapter I was working on to give you an idea:</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font><em>Every part of Midas seemed to be simultaneously screaming. Deep blisters had formed in his right hand and holes threatened to form in his left glove, his tunic clung to his blood- and sweat-soaked back, his arms shook with each swing of the pickaxe, and he was just sure his head would burst with one more minute of the clanks of pickaxes against stone. The single day had felt more like a hundred days rolled into one. A hundred days of pure, torturous agony.</em></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br>Ah yes, pain. Good times, good times. <font size="2">(I’m writing such a <em>nice</em> book.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Yep, I’d say the first Monday of NaNo ‘18 ended up being a success!</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>2,119</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ff1-h5HarwzNoVVQEsrFjIfu-OKf42OXuPyXJGFEqbV0P8H-YjBQzvzbe02bm3o_qixsu9dzBgz_B0-RG7UMSfCTcaWtBd802PAjpGu0Svk-7hs1s3autBBHtUtK-rZhfia1hPcBHXSx6DHBodg8IB0oJgE4xC-HapPUILyc886F6yyvSlbGfoHXr6Ejbo0mDU443DlHGIO5evr-tRKUu-zUoh6Ld0O0BJhb1D5TrKIzGVW7CB3_JrzK3HyWF0eEkeB1wH2Rb7NpuPJf_9GZKB1lSQywEJdIB2H24wxtQidBBSBkcTHkQTZYcUJf8A6ScrgnqJoHS17h61pai1z0xauS5amJluElD9zdBa2bB7-dAA6M0k1NsrVIXrachHek8ojMD7rwxnw_KxlLN7cAZWNBjbxi2FQEcOPeL37glmq3j-bYD-U0S06lMUsVOLFgWzI4_gb3i1aQL6Uw-3hXWfpfO-40BLADyl-XN-vIua46Ur4dqVJL_ZWGH-2Dlsq6EzgtFDzNUXPbQD4_fsjs5dOGrsWTrcgUZ8OW1x7-o5MLPNWJQ83H3Nqn-zBjXdOrYD5w7561RaSFAUKsR3T-obiMgaLzJ_aRQ0OLH4lQ2BTBf8Jvj7PzBbCsjk3KtpiwAmzOV7GoSF4hX226BVJboJMdrErXQqvDK9TqnsXJKIol2Ox3FoPYAJcpJqwz44MhJ1YE4cXSs-8Ic1wBu80UNsBJ5TiyrC1DhePnUw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">TUESDAY: DAY #6</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I had nothing going on this day and was all set to do like a crazy 6k-word day. Since I was so busy Monday, and I was going to have to go to work the next day, I especially wanted to get extra in this free day. Buuuut for some reason the words were coming slOOOOooow. By the time I got 2k words in, it was already evening. I dragged out another 1k before bed, but I didn’t want to stay up terribly late because I had work the next day<font size="2"> (I pretend to be a responsible adult sometimes)</font>.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>STILL THOUGH. I had to remember just because I didn’t get 6k words in like I wanted, I still got a whole 3k! <strong>As a perfectionist, I waaay too often forget to celebrate my accomplishments, and instead badger myself for not constantly overachieving.</strong> <font size="3">(Hey, at least I serve as a great example of what <em>not</em> to do.)</font> Learn from my mistakes, people, and don’t look at the words you didn’t write, <strong>but celebrate what you DID write. Because every. single. word. is progress!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>And I did celebrate something that day…</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IZ7Wkk43uGruMqh2Ea6mRemwryHEWjWp-uYouQVyBewxFFpLgHiEJNFsAZUeFID-q_fJxqUrcsauBvKhYR3CDEnwWPpfQDs6E5JWiEc31ylK3ir9KfsDJjOVmcqVJvRfA2pnb_GfdXKxGuVI-ulVit_0DAAHzmKZjMedYoEQEp3fggkx8lldSAh23eFHJyDuslbQvKsKFVCIkrpWmyGPSGTicKB6umLtEQQHH9qVN0COhxeFsydb-2DWSUYgyq9oWW-XRMVdDIW-7cA2dz10yfyyQkPnFblWeEG-gexP0MdxNczGol9Kj0oPpCmcDGOQn78A2zlo8nn-k0nyqgeZTsynfGey_BIpLmjRWVz3fK67BjhuZ2Jy36aihWRH5mgZ4GVl8DKuONs0md4AgU8z4gc5w8LdsMbYnuo9RR0_cyUM5K29w89NImB4rIAKkaQp9Ku5SshkABwW_NABsSyxPS-IEYOE5lDFf5RagMMhKqMCQo4s0a9EpqJvx-XlJ3Rr7WNT2TuDTW8Nzm8NH841HRmLgDCj1IgZuoXY3JWathejB_KwZX94iboH7KIXwFfn1FMCjBnd__zhgT6F0UoyjwoUgydQQvhvRSlJIGeIxp4GkXFWfGPC4FIOVRASUXTSvKt7ZvyQ8rkIQANhujkeJt87oHepKxNq_tuguw7gR8e8j4ycfrI_RzQ67kisFE3Rg1Ed4kaPmTw56GKFm_lLUcHN_cOLwEabxY_mTA=w523-h391-no" width="450" height="339"></p>
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="5">I HIT 25K WORDS!!!</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Halfway to 50k!</strong> Except only like…a 4th of the way through my novel but, again, let’s look at the accomplishments, not what I have ahead of me. Eheheheheh… <font size="2">I’msodoomed.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I also took time out that day to exercise which I had been slacking on but NEED to do, <em>especially</em> during NaNo since I’m sitting down even more than usual. Do take care of yourselves, my precious peeps! <3</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>3,580</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ff1-h5HarwzNoVVQEsrFjIfu-OKf42OXuPyXJGFEqbV0P8H-YjBQzvzbe02bm3o_qixsu9dzBgz_B0-RG7UMSfCTcaWtBd802PAjpGu0Svk-7hs1s3autBBHtUtK-rZhfia1hPcBHXSx6DHBodg8IB0oJgE4xC-HapPUILyc886F6yyvSlbGfoHXr6Ejbo0mDU443DlHGIO5evr-tRKUu-zUoh6Ld0O0BJhb1D5TrKIzGVW7CB3_JrzK3HyWF0eEkeB1wH2Rb7NpuPJf_9GZKB1lSQywEJdIB2H24wxtQidBBSBkcTHkQTZYcUJf8A6ScrgnqJoHS17h61pai1z0xauS5amJluElD9zdBa2bB7-dAA6M0k1NsrVIXrachHek8ojMD7rwxnw_KxlLN7cAZWNBjbxi2FQEcOPeL37glmq3j-bYD-U0S06lMUsVOLFgWzI4_gb3i1aQL6Uw-3hXWfpfO-40BLADyl-XN-vIua46Ur4dqVJL_ZWGH-2Dlsq6EzgtFDzNUXPbQD4_fsjs5dOGrsWTrcgUZ8OW1x7-o5MLPNWJQ83H3Nqn-zBjXdOrYD5w7561RaSFAUKsR3T-obiMgaLzJ_aRQ0OLH4lQ2BTBf8Jvj7PzBbCsjk3KtpiwAmzOV7GoSF4hX226BVJboJMdrErXQqvDK9TqnsXJKIol2Ox3FoPYAJcpJqwz44MhJ1YE4cXSs-8Ic1wBu80UNsBJ5TiyrC1DhePnUw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">WEDNESDAY: DAY #7</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>As mentioned, I had work this day, as is the usual for Wednesdays. But I didn’t mind. It was nice to get away from the computer a bit. AND it was my favorite weather for work—cold and rainy. Because I work at a cute little secondhand bookshop, and is there anything on this earth cozier than hanging out in a bookshop all day while it’s cold and rainy outside? Seriously now.</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><em>Normal people when it rains: </em>Ugh, what a dreary day<em>.<br>Me when it rains: </em>What a beautiful day!</p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br>So yeah, it was nice. <strong>But then when I got home I was all ready to dive back into writing and my slump of the day before was gone. The words flowed quite well, and I almost got as many words in as I did the previous day, despite not getting started until the evening.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Which showed me something that my stubborn, overachieving brain forgets every year: <strong>BREAKS ARE GOOD.</strong> I think the words were flowing well because I had gotten out of the house and had a good long break from my story before diving back in. <strong>Some days we have to give ourselves grace. The words are not going to flow easily and swiftly every day. In fact, those days are rare. But when the words are coming slow and hard, if we need to step back and take things easier, THAT’S OKAY. Sometimes it’s good to push through, but if you’re completely burning out, do be kind to yourself and take a break. And, in the end, the words will probably come <em>faster, </em>which can actually save you time, not lose it.</strong> Something to think about. *wriggles eyebrows*</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>3,175</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ff1-h5HarwzNoVVQEsrFjIfu-OKf42OXuPyXJGFEqbV0P8H-YjBQzvzbe02bm3o_qixsu9dzBgz_B0-RG7UMSfCTcaWtBd802PAjpGu0Svk-7hs1s3autBBHtUtK-rZhfia1hPcBHXSx6DHBodg8IB0oJgE4xC-HapPUILyc886F6yyvSlbGfoHXr6Ejbo0mDU443DlHGIO5evr-tRKUu-zUoh6Ld0O0BJhb1D5TrKIzGVW7CB3_JrzK3HyWF0eEkeB1wH2Rb7NpuPJf_9GZKB1lSQywEJdIB2H24wxtQidBBSBkcTHkQTZYcUJf8A6ScrgnqJoHS17h61pai1z0xauS5amJluElD9zdBa2bB7-dAA6M0k1NsrVIXrachHek8ojMD7rwxnw_KxlLN7cAZWNBjbxi2FQEcOPeL37glmq3j-bYD-U0S06lMUsVOLFgWzI4_gb3i1aQL6Uw-3hXWfpfO-40BLADyl-XN-vIua46Ur4dqVJL_ZWGH-2Dlsq6EzgtFDzNUXPbQD4_fsjs5dOGrsWTrcgUZ8OW1x7-o5MLPNWJQ83H3Nqn-zBjXdOrYD5w7561RaSFAUKsR3T-obiMgaLzJ_aRQ0OLH4lQ2BTBf8Jvj7PzBbCsjk3KtpiwAmzOV7GoSF4hX226BVJboJMdrErXQqvDK9TqnsXJKIol2Ox3FoPYAJcpJqwz44MhJ1YE4cXSs-8Ic1wBu80UNsBJ5TiyrC1DhePnUw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">THURSDAY: DAY #8</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Here we are on the <em>official</em> first day of the second week and THIS. DAY. This day reminded me of why I’ve chosen to be a writer.</strong> Like I said, more often than not writing is <em>hard</em>, and too often those words have to be dragged out kicking and screaming <font size="2">(okay, actually <em>we’re</em> the ones kicking and screaming)</font>. But then there’s days like this that make it all worth it.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>This is the day I truly fell in love with <em>Kings Bleed Gold.</em></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><br></strong><em>“But, ummm…didn’t you say you already did that last week?”</em> you’re probably saying. Yes, I immensely enjoyed the story last week, and it was fun getting into the feel of it and discovering my characters. <strong>But at this point I finally have the feel down, know Midas through-and-through, and am really into the meat of the story.</strong> (Fun Fact: I’m one of the rare few who actually <em>loves</em> story middles. They’re my favorite!)</p>
<p align="justify"><br>It seems like the second week of NaNo is the hardest for most because the newness of the exciting event has died out a little, we’ve gone a whole week with no sleep, and there’s still so much of the month <em>left.</em> So I get it. Week two can absolutely be rough. But since I can’t be normal. Ever. >.> <strong>Week two is actually when I <em>really</em> start enjoying myself.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And yep, lo and behold, the first day of week two has been my favorite day of this NaNo thus far.</strong> I wrote 2 full chapters from start to finish <font size="3">(which may not sound like that huge of a feat but my chapters keep being so <em>long </em>ugh)</font>, and was basically grinning all day over how much <em>fun</em> I was having.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I think a lot had to do with the fact that Midas was really getting to grow a friendship with Syram and Korinna <font size="3">(and I just adore my precious babies)</font>, and he took a step toward character growth that day <font size="3">#proudmomma <font size="2">(I say as I destroy his life)</font>. ButalsoSyram.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>It didn’t hurt that it was super foggy and mysterious looking outside. Very inspiring.</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORD WRITTEN: <strong>6,142</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ff1-h5HarwzNoVVQEsrFjIfu-OKf42OXuPyXJGFEqbV0P8H-YjBQzvzbe02bm3o_qixsu9dzBgz_B0-RG7UMSfCTcaWtBd802PAjpGu0Svk-7hs1s3autBBHtUtK-rZhfia1hPcBHXSx6DHBodg8IB0oJgE4xC-HapPUILyc886F6yyvSlbGfoHXr6Ejbo0mDU443DlHGIO5evr-tRKUu-zUoh6Ld0O0BJhb1D5TrKIzGVW7CB3_JrzK3HyWF0eEkeB1wH2Rb7NpuPJf_9GZKB1lSQywEJdIB2H24wxtQidBBSBkcTHkQTZYcUJf8A6ScrgnqJoHS17h61pai1z0xauS5amJluElD9zdBa2bB7-dAA6M0k1NsrVIXrachHek8ojMD7rwxnw_KxlLN7cAZWNBjbxi2FQEcOPeL37glmq3j-bYD-U0S06lMUsVOLFgWzI4_gb3i1aQL6Uw-3hXWfpfO-40BLADyl-XN-vIua46Ur4dqVJL_ZWGH-2Dlsq6EzgtFDzNUXPbQD4_fsjs5dOGrsWTrcgUZ8OW1x7-o5MLPNWJQ83H3Nqn-zBjXdOrYD5w7561RaSFAUKsR3T-obiMgaLzJ_aRQ0OLH4lQ2BTBf8Jvj7PzBbCsjk3KtpiwAmzOV7GoSF4hX226BVJboJMdrErXQqvDK9TqnsXJKIol2Ox3FoPYAJcpJqwz44MhJ1YE4cXSs-8Ic1wBu80UNsBJ5TiyrC1DhePnUw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">FRIDAY: DAY #9</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I was hoping my writing high of the previous day would continue on to this one, and I did very much enjoy writing, buuut it wasn’t quite as magical as Thursday. Oh well, gotta face reality. XD Things <em>did</em> go pretty well this day. Except…</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>The coffee pot broke.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CvFKULEvps7VAGsMXKL6tr4uPwZ-JUDiC0XAlJlp70IMkfRItTrc82FySwH6V6i1jClIjTQr3r4TnZUGyUC0XLqS1wWfug8F81LRrwPlo3IXoNUK_nEg-2ZifW9qUl_sM7tk9ZULJlvoGw_dOnUNxyW8DrpJfYZAgzQgMuzOnONu9l2519o5j4tUoh7mNqAKJKCzhheJXvLOY0eFvkOwdbEiJLdHbE_gMu_L92MDv0J1pekpVITLYWJW-Thc6gugyvDoW2FN7-DxwkzsyBFro4bJuGCqsrT-GAbkAfXEtAPsjcRJUjsJ3LMvEZ2djgIDFMKNNtLXAYC2I__6J5Mspp5J-LJjxYFH9UFSiVWiVaAF0JwmirVgzBEw3opwrB9r0w9wgB7Cbcdc5hxDEy_UhVD3_vF9qv9qjXjRw9qeAFoe5PS8EPWFeJXdgPNE13Y1Cd1kOxfohShJLo9YXEw9iNjqsASJLK-ZZabtW9N9QQMkKNJXjdMh5TVAGHif_HSwl_GFpqZBx1sEzQDNrTDz7vcND-wzFzRc6ekpAoGGIAHoNz1pNcx_E9tSo5renpSpVPyPgrJ8TPFOpORo2BWfyzj0I9fsK8UqKCQgAU5Ld1HxtXLNvjac-jPSEeMzJk-CaTbwroFOCCBuPSk3dRZiRv0ro2eoxRYrVuRk-aFQ8W8658s7ZpggdJ6_dKjWlShZ1TvFNgFqlf10n4XgLrLEt_CxWIYkokNr7BZB=w360-h202-no" width="350" height="201"></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>After lunch I went to make coffee, got it all assembled, pushed the button, and…nothing happened. It wouldn’t turn on. It was having a few problems for the past few days, but I didn’t think it was just all-out <em>dying.</em> BUT IT DID. DURING NANO. The worst possible time everrrr. Thanks, coffee pot. I thought you loved me! D’:</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Ahem, so yes, I may have spent a good 5 minutes draped over the kitchen cabinet groaning over this terrible fate…until I remembered I had a latte mix that just requires milk to be microwaved and is a great substitute for coffee. #crisisaverted</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Other than that, the day went quite well. I wrote all of chapter ten that day, which I was happy about. Something about hitting the double digit chapters feels like I’m making <em>real</em> progress.</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>4,178</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ff1-h5HarwzNoVVQEsrFjIfu-OKf42OXuPyXJGFEqbV0P8H-YjBQzvzbe02bm3o_qixsu9dzBgz_B0-RG7UMSfCTcaWtBd802PAjpGu0Svk-7hs1s3autBBHtUtK-rZhfia1hPcBHXSx6DHBodg8IB0oJgE4xC-HapPUILyc886F6yyvSlbGfoHXr6Ejbo0mDU443DlHGIO5evr-tRKUu-zUoh6Ld0O0BJhb1D5TrKIzGVW7CB3_JrzK3HyWF0eEkeB1wH2Rb7NpuPJf_9GZKB1lSQywEJdIB2H24wxtQidBBSBkcTHkQTZYcUJf8A6ScrgnqJoHS17h61pai1z0xauS5amJluElD9zdBa2bB7-dAA6M0k1NsrVIXrachHek8ojMD7rwxnw_KxlLN7cAZWNBjbxi2FQEcOPeL37glmq3j-bYD-U0S06lMUsVOLFgWzI4_gb3i1aQL6Uw-3hXWfpfO-40BLADyl-XN-vIua46Ur4dqVJL_ZWGH-2Dlsq6EzgtFDzNUXPbQD4_fsjs5dOGrsWTrcgUZ8OW1x7-o5MLPNWJQ83H3Nqn-zBjXdOrYD5w7561RaSFAUKsR3T-obiMgaLzJ_aRQ0OLH4lQ2BTBf8Jvj7PzBbCsjk3KtpiwAmzOV7GoSF4hX226BVJboJMdrErXQqvDK9TqnsXJKIol2Ox3FoPYAJcpJqwz44MhJ1YE4cXSs-8Ic1wBu80UNsBJ5TiyrC1DhePnUw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">SATURDAY: DAY #10</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>So this day was…interesting. It was one of those terrible, awesome days, ya feel?</p>
<p align="justify"><br>It started off <em>freezing.</em> Coldest day we’ve had of fall thus far. I loved it. *grins* It was also sunny which was kinda nice. I adooore the rain, but it had been dark and rainy all week and it was rather nice to see the sun out. <font size="3">(I basically love all weather in the cold. As long as its cold, I’m happy.)</font> I had work this day, and it was a rather quiet, chill day. On Saturdays I only work until 2, so when I got off I popped over to McDonald’s to grab coffee for my family and me ‘cause, ya know, the coffee pot was <em>broke. </em>>.> Annnd we’re pathetic and can’t go a day with the stuff.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>McDonald’s was super crowded, but I was just enjoying the nice weather and didn’t mind…at first. Then they made me pull up and wait for my coffee. I waited for a good while when someone came out…with the wrong order. So I waited more annnd they brought the wrong order <em>again.</em> I eventually turned off my car, not wanting to leave it running. And guess what, for THE THIRD TIME, they brought the wrong thing to my car??? This time they took my receipt, and I continued waiting. FORTY. FIVE. MINUTES. LATER. they brought out the right order. What even??? <strong>So, with coffee <em>finally</em> in hand, I cranked my car and…it wouldn’t start.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Yeppp. I sat there for forty-five minutes only to have my car die on me. Because I guess getting into a car crash last weekend wasn’t enough. Gotta have another car problem this week. :)))</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/fzRxHyBg8KXGoUatyVOkCpBj569Ik3WnLqLu3_As8e00Dbgg8wow7zBUocradxgKcYghR6twf8Uwq5hQ5t7tlv2SgvwnXnbia82T9UYvuOaf1f6ZrR3kWiCCEjSVazUdSKWU6d9HiXIHj9Ury0I8FSpfUYHqPgNsY3fQSygrTBkOYdgHa0gkY0UcSzOvf9-YMeejB3AfIVwUNKT6VwNhxLsNW2lPL5Sweeo5e_YaeFOZk87JxCydnf0bYEOAt5-HQZRZhq7t_sz8NKA00Yh6yAUJGbDTLd33qY0rsKyPIIRd0pjR_nzp_y9WhejHYpYbt_8E3EE9DC615giV-LLOC9q9jwiVXbaB5IH485jNTOvEcA6gc6R7rPQGul4tgIg-m2xEE8PLrO2mnT-NJpJcfqQR6eOGC4la4KALQMEanugg1K1xlclL8P2akDjMkAaITza883AgiKQrD6I54Ud6PguJ11mhxwD7kcPa5L6TDzJ_78seSxzM5mZy67dnUQcszgTwSKqGheqIicv3sKGUSBvR-1CnPbvsQYs9_VcDWJ9kcbJflR9PwuL77DtkhmBBV3-888ZCITVCz8zqysgtMQu9r_0wWtRJRKp06K4YNkMzxLcyIRqjKHLl21Qyp0nIi7nooqz6ONCzoHMNmPI83vw9dwCwaRHHnW1IcCjdeKTPFTfhwsfx8pDrb6UjsxzzYPDhpCIDmYk4PHzInhhTH_697p07lM85JOEB=w300-h164-no" width="350" height="196"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Thankfully, our house is just a few minutes away and my mom and brother came to get me. But then there was the problem that my car was in a bad place to just leave. God provided though, because there were some men who were able to help us push it out of the way and into a parking place until we could get it towed and fixed. But yeah, that was…fun.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>The coffee was tasty though.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I came home, drank my coffee, and wrote a few words, but then we wanted to go do some shopping and get a new coffee pot because #priorities But also it was a nice day to just be out and about. Then, a good friend texted and asked if I wanted to have supper and catch up because we haven’t had a chance to see each other in AAAGES. Obviously I jumped on that…except I didn’t have a car. But she was precious and picked me up. We ended up sitting at the restaurant chatting for <em>hours.</em> <strong>By the time I got home, I was exhausted but utterly filled up.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I only wrote for a total of 30 minutes that day. But you know what? I didn’t care. ‘Cause some days life happens, and we have to roll with it. And sometimes we have to seize the moment and soak it up. It’s a wonderful thing to carve out time for your writing. A necessary thing. But it’s also good to get out and enjoy the crazy moments of life.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>So yeah. Saturday was, erm, stressful. But it also ended really well. ‘Cause, ya know, life.</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>566<br></strong></font><font size="3">(Lowest daily wordcount thus far, but like I said, every word is progress!)</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ff1-h5HarwzNoVVQEsrFjIfu-OKf42OXuPyXJGFEqbV0P8H-YjBQzvzbe02bm3o_qixsu9dzBgz_B0-RG7UMSfCTcaWtBd802PAjpGu0Svk-7hs1s3autBBHtUtK-rZhfia1hPcBHXSx6DHBodg8IB0oJgE4xC-HapPUILyc886F6yyvSlbGfoHXr6Ejbo0mDU443DlHGIO5evr-tRKUu-zUoh6Ld0O0BJhb1D5TrKIzGVW7CB3_JrzK3HyWF0eEkeB1wH2Rb7NpuPJf_9GZKB1lSQywEJdIB2H24wxtQidBBSBkcTHkQTZYcUJf8A6ScrgnqJoHS17h61pai1z0xauS5amJluElD9zdBa2bB7-dAA6M0k1NsrVIXrachHek8ojMD7rwxnw_KxlLN7cAZWNBjbxi2FQEcOPeL37glmq3j-bYD-U0S06lMUsVOLFgWzI4_gb3i1aQL6Uw-3hXWfpfO-40BLADyl-XN-vIua46Ur4dqVJL_ZWGH-2Dlsq6EzgtFDzNUXPbQD4_fsjs5dOGrsWTrcgUZ8OW1x7-o5MLPNWJQ83H3Nqn-zBjXdOrYD5w7561RaSFAUKsR3T-obiMgaLzJ_aRQ0OLH4lQ2BTBf8Jvj7PzBbCsjk3KtpiwAmzOV7GoSF4hX226BVJboJMdrErXQqvDK9TqnsXJKIol2Ox3FoPYAJcpJqwz44MhJ1YE4cXSs-8Ic1wBu80UNsBJ5TiyrC1DhePnUw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">SUNDAY: DAY #11</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>After Saturday, I was prettyyyy exhausted. Once I sat down to write Sunday, I was worried it was going to be a hard day because all I really wanted to do was read or watch TV or take a nap or basically anything that didn’t involve brain activity. <strong>Buuut me being my stubborn self who tells everyone to take care of themselves and then doesn’t actually take care of herself, felt a great need to write since I barely got any words in the day before. And…writing went fantastic.</strong> I was in shock.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>A <em>huge</em> factor that helped this day was using a timer.</strong> The ever-fabulous <a href="https://deborahocarroll.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Deborah</a> <font size="3">(pst, go follow her, she’s the best)</font> always suggests setting a timer to do word sprints with yourself. I took up this wonderful idea a couple of years ago and it helps SO. MUCH. <strong>There’s nothing like a timer counting down to make you chain that inner editor up in the closet and just WRITE.</strong> Then, just the other day, <a href="http://www.abbiee.com/" target="_blank">Abbiee</a> <font size="3">(whom you should all also go follow because her posts are inspiration and motivation wrapped in gold)</font> did <a href="http://www.abbiee.com/2018/11/day-in-the-life-nanowrimo/" target="_blank">a post</a> on how she stays motivated during NaNo and said she <strong>sets the timer for 25 minutes and writes nonstop, then takes a 5 minutes break (<em>away</em> from the computer), then repeats.</strong> I loved this idea so much, I tried it and…it worked. Despite wanting to just take a nap all day Sunday, I ended up getting a ton of words in, and they came quick because I set that timer and just WROTE WROTE WROTE. I’m absolutely going to be doing this epic method more!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Also, Sunday’s writing was particularly fun because things took an interesting turn and Midas discovered all sorts of intriguing backstory things that changes <em>everything.</em> Bwahaha! <font size="3">(Writing can be so fun, guys, seriously.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Oh, and we did get a new coffee pot Saturday so I do in fact have access to the liquid life force once more.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jaLRXSmie10g0ZHqYj8zB7hh-VofJ_KfTyZ29yTTEopQxs3IEIP9-pIP-0z_Oqi_4sqbEJR14caJwMsjeEIRdw5yx4x16CSLHMdpOilxFR0ns8Jw_vlRAhhxZ5p96UWbJihPTpprTVYIQ6lgaWtygIsv1mW06ApxC2yyaEXFkFB_MYsAVd0NZo6RRDgi_wOytvSMb8syOCLbbK-UkvRhe8vYn7Vgnputlw075DtlG6FLGcPddivJHP6c8-IGcgaEmBq8v2E2CL5eFgSk5_TsSvvD4oCGzKXlXOQ66UYb5OxG8trzn9Dfq6u4vmCU-g_DV1m1ws-yBBMFwTkQxB75eceKL5NBKl1ex0M2FK38fpLWNaqSZzQ0pNEAWlsn4kXrAsulm5Eqk7xNdadaMmJlYU6EXjJFzutmeabfO-gRMJH3r3D-JB6HGDJFUj9oBNFb9omVLZcQ7MifadKVfTgM8dkONEqB3ezOfE2Es0OJCg6t-X_Wi0bB1l0BZ1qp-TNFQSjLGtR-GVCSGWtgS5LvtIIDpwZ0YbE9i1OVimog12lYcAFDP8hwRZPeMWy1XXa3aJbnS8xYnMM_BCw4ayUsAashIRIGrNhb7GahTwY7j6gyMxkaLvOBNCNX4RUOIEDTKPcxsogeH6hhZDi-qfJ0XaQaH8CqWLaNFbCrJrj7XF8KysZcxJWMgNb9KxHYmCTi5qpgRB-51Z2ggMd5exE5RbCLg_-48S65g5X0pA=w493-h296-no" width="350" height="213"></p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>5,195</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oui45fDqe7QtRMEWqnyfb6ap3yKgEzkldexd0zsZJPDTk4C_4orrccaWgfJ1u-fWvBgk9pmeSuUKy85whLrqUB5TYY9IfKxvZIDIzPG2fEbuTn_IoxYKYVqPGuxBr6V_TSVxDKf6SaYDqrsmFudb4iVdTvAlcGIg1onNiOVFEhVNNZz2YJRlvkqTJ5HUROjNOsd-lGZcC6DIRjOz99LB5al1_RzKKc_egBHyTxKs38ReRKZX3fORweO6aD_Qa-iCd2FrwFEAQMmyLwMQyghNvSnesjjHr2ljfok4G1VR-X7SG5TfxDja7Wqew-OULXjlwV3d1J6B2gIoIcWeaAJGg_50lfaRydMej_xtCHlmE1uJY5GOlsKrKH3Ij8sRTp6n6FQx7VW05EH-8sXPdc_dIBujm_E8dUn0gf0GVXV5AIpjcvlHJJttPXeB-ZnYgt6gqJifxXb1DL4-1REOGGCcwTQcAdUR03abItjEOMw5PDGv6Q3CytyQjwxNI4MzdoedZLOg5QPD9S2kcH8IEXPk21ku05ytsPkrWcXbWBKr1H6c78uA4k0piatMS-2XgAlAQeTO9jYpeBQvJJnBMmO2PDDCzOvkYUGmDX4LYNEawvRLHgH2Qv51QRYZURtReUftreKC1zsVBLHhPxZK6uOl0g4A80MJUC4VER-hDZH7CoM7zOJ5wC5anWKyRt_ctDsJ3wA_c-B23lhlx7qomQgO6DMWyCeZpBxGYx7rqQ=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63"><font size="6">Total Words Written: <strong>24,955<br></strong><font size="3">(Should have written 45 more words lol.)</font></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Ff1-h5HarwzNoVVQEsrFjIfu-OKf42OXuPyXJGFEqbV0P8H-YjBQzvzbe02bm3o_qixsu9dzBgz_B0-RG7UMSfCTcaWtBd802PAjpGu0Svk-7hs1s3autBBHtUtK-rZhfia1hPcBHXSx6DHBodg8IB0oJgE4xC-HapPUILyc886F6yyvSlbGfoHXr6Ejbo0mDU443DlHGIO5evr-tRKUu-zUoh6Ld0O0BJhb1D5TrKIzGVW7CB3_JrzK3HyWF0eEkeB1wH2Rb7NpuPJf_9GZKB1lSQywEJdIB2H24wxtQidBBSBkcTHkQTZYcUJf8A6ScrgnqJoHS17h61pai1z0xauS5amJluElD9zdBa2bB7-dAA6M0k1NsrVIXrachHek8ojMD7rwxnw_KxlLN7cAZWNBjbxi2FQEcOPeL37glmq3j-bYD-U0S06lMUsVOLFgWzI4_gb3i1aQL6Uw-3hXWfpfO-40BLADyl-XN-vIua46Ur4dqVJL_ZWGH-2Dlsq6EzgtFDzNUXPbQD4_fsjs5dOGrsWTrcgUZ8OW1x7-o5MLPNWJQ83H3Nqn-zBjXdOrYD5w7561RaSFAUKsR3T-obiMgaLzJ_aRQ0OLH4lQ2BTBf8Jvj7PzBbCsjk3KtpiwAmzOV7GoSF4hX226BVJboJMdrErXQqvDK9TqnsXJKIol2Ox3FoPYAJcpJqwz44MhJ1YE4cXSs-8Ic1wBu80UNsBJ5TiyrC1DhePnUw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">CONCLUSION</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Well, the coffee pot broke and so did my car. <strong>BUT writing went extremely well this week, even better than last week. I’m finally fully inside Midas’ head, have a good feel of the story, and all sorts of </strong><font size="2">(painful, terrible)</font><strong> thiiings are happening.</strong> *grins* I also feel like the writing is at least a smidge smoother than the earlier chapters. One can hope…</p>
<p align="justify"><br>At this rate, I am kind of worried I won’t quite be able to get it done by the end of the month which I was really hoping to do. I’ve only got 11 chapters written of 35 so it’s not looking good. But hey, it’s NaNo. Who knows what’ll happen!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Also, I apologize if these updates are way too detailed<font size="2"> (because they totally are)</font> and boring. I, erm, sort of write them for myself because NaNo is an extremely special time to me and I love having a log or something to remember each one by. <font size="3">(But also my tired NaNo brain can’t come up with normal posts for the the month so this is what ya get…)</font> I <em>so</em> appreciate all the support you precious people give me during this time of long, incoherent posts and my entire social media only being NaNo updates. You’re the best!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oui45fDqe7QtRMEWqnyfb6ap3yKgEzkldexd0zsZJPDTk4C_4orrccaWgfJ1u-fWvBgk9pmeSuUKy85whLrqUB5TYY9IfKxvZIDIzPG2fEbuTn_IoxYKYVqPGuxBr6V_TSVxDKf6SaYDqrsmFudb4iVdTvAlcGIg1onNiOVFEhVNNZz2YJRlvkqTJ5HUROjNOsd-lGZcC6DIRjOz99LB5al1_RzKKc_egBHyTxKs38ReRKZX3fORweO6aD_Qa-iCd2FrwFEAQMmyLwMQyghNvSnesjjHr2ljfok4G1VR-X7SG5TfxDja7Wqew-OULXjlwV3d1J6B2gIoIcWeaAJGg_50lfaRydMej_xtCHlmE1uJY5GOlsKrKH3Ij8sRTp6n6FQx7VW05EH-8sXPdc_dIBujm_E8dUn0gf0GVXV5AIpjcvlHJJttPXeB-ZnYgt6gqJifxXb1DL4-1REOGGCcwTQcAdUR03abItjEOMw5PDGv6Q3CytyQjwxNI4MzdoedZLOg5QPD9S2kcH8IEXPk21ku05ytsPkrWcXbWBKr1H6c78uA4k0piatMS-2XgAlAQeTO9jYpeBQvJJnBMmO2PDDCzOvkYUGmDX4LYNEawvRLHgH2Qv51QRYZURtReUftreKC1zsVBLHhPxZK6uOl0g4A80MJUC4VER-hDZH7CoM7zOJ5wC5anWKyRt_ctDsJ3wA_c-B23lhlx7qomQgO6DMWyCeZpBxGYx7rqQ=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">Now for the best part, getting to hear about YOUR week! How’s this second week treating you all, fellow NaNo-ers??? I hope it’s going well, but don’t forget,<em> every</em> word counts! And how’s November been for everyone? </font><font size="4">(Mine’s been extremely rainy and I’m loving it.)</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-52777050870971147432018-11-12T10:20:00.001-06:002018-11-12T10:20:18.966-06:00Know the Novel Part 2 - Within the WIP {A Writers Linkup}<font size="4"><font size="4"><font size="5">
<p align="justify"><strong><br></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/k9HCh7glBEGmJC1uS1gr_B2-S3jNRpdQvg_H4dK-SjIm-Eq5bo4Dpj9HkF2kw4PXR9fRgWj9w3iPHJhKcUh_5V9quNfhpe8wtw3CwLo-DEfSpk9LDwYFjSuTWpU8Iw3NUyHq957j43ZnvSpA8EpR887Hpj9bOhN-Kj1hCsuCt4XJkprNXvTP8429-hgdJ1y0a3qhq7mVM638xs8VLiKpQlx0ssmCrdmryYls_MiAuoOq8UlTVhztr7LnES7E-RQLIZScBoXwhKHFHqC0aOqVPYfQe0dU2ipc0tmI8SvTN6zSyIbdfbFolFSDVQz_LxG0peMjXiwSynXqZY3LJwIuoZlXePbY_ghMBzuvGJIsiXxEYAeeIu9wHyyWRspyeOUPRH31jvg8ddvFwfUiJBLVbOdUmPK7YV3n55dIIUKARb9ifYDH7kuvoXNjp8ACmJdWsOB-sjXOQgar7cBvShVct9rIojsRLRlPrJAoqtki6MEkcbJ4xdFhavZJWNjn7wLJDSUVK9H5IS42VztEK73JZzSiqGR87v3D_2xvuKpwSKxV7oVRapPtYqLGpTCLZAIHlNNdYJGpmsir22CUYepzX0Cwvxe1SB99_87dDalsbUj5rjFTc-5eu-AMKCukxhXf8Mq1dJmmbYg5vexuqpu8wy9Ytn1SdT6aIiI1ie5AOuXPJsycVcrVw0Ir=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"><br>And I am back with PART TWO of my <em>Know the Novel</em> linkup! A 3-part linkup for us writers to share fun tidbits about our noveling ventures.</strong></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/know-novel-part-1-introductory-new.html" target="_blank">Part 1</a> was all about introducing our novels. Now we’re going to get to the deep stuff: <strong>WRITING THE NOVEL.</strong> Because, um, it’s NANOWRIMO, GUYS. We have survived the first week <font size="2">(or did we??? *Twilight Zone music*)</font> and are now well into week two. Which means if you’re eyeballs <em>aren’t</em> burning out of their sockets, your brain <em>doesn’t</em> wonder what the real world even is anymore, and you <em>haven’t</em> just finished your 473rd cup of coffee for the month, then you’re probably doing something wrong.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Juuuust kidding.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>…I think. <font size="1">(Someonehelpme.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>If you missed last month’s post announcing this linkup, here’s the deets! </font></font><font size="2">(Here’s the deets? Wow, I sound like I’m trying to be “hip” like all the youngsters these days.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><br></p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LnL9AigyLpXtlTTGNtt2zBRf--rVzcSQkJLlTzyAw3Bz7zBsKBTTY8f4EIWYDg_pDeEkAYPE2hd5Ibe4HvDXv0lqJwCu15xFc1dj7v4bsiEThkBINK5LLTXPGOw_HEM2zNj5oS6cBMTgx1DUqfi8YMXZ1QlYlPkNP3RT-_aHPXFovgOSfTELYXsc0dKiJQaa3-smVaT5CJIvRSnka9a7ZuYg0cVrCvY7P5jNF3MT15CCJHed0ypenCiifTYSOBwE-TOtPexhhWGZZqLKmbFDYHE7lEM5-xECR-I2q4SgzZaK8b5WTISU03EIA1fJ6WgjWcqg9ZFtuIw-CNRi4L2ByosIhlzq10OPe8RRguQVqfnBtS3GP5iDC2sVuK6-Z9R7YLpOj0BAkCgH83VbqRjj7P6NeNyvGnbis7m9NC8O0isuzhVPsMImnehZ4Dm1pJQD5lQBbGGjh0dJl44CsqMO_mVs_k047fVwDT_fCnySNG-1hTctsnr_lzEOZV72qLHswi-rVPsbV5xRPspSJkVyllO3kDbOuM1cNJvIiKomdtsKyDZcMRAG4F-hUdj0BIDAuJCaZWtLkITLjkn_P55zhBgiTlZ84-EEL76x7_rM_X6JhGOUEV6zMewlawp3H05uwuYjNEhFSUdBUkte88eBzEQjYUhtFVCI-IiDF2d7tLYZJkouYtlH2i0x=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">THE INFO</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Know the Novel is a 3-part linkup series, one for each of these last three months of the year. Each one will feature ten questions you can answer on your own blog (or anywhere else on social media if you’d like!). The questions will be focusing on different parts of the novel/your writing.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5">It goes as followed:</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="6">October</font></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Part One: Introductory</font></strong> – These questions were centered on you telling us all about your novel and giving the fun, juicy details. We had over 30 participants! Like GUYS. What a fantastic turn out! And oh my goodness, you all blew. me. away. with the creativity. SO many epic sounding novels in the works! Do <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/know-novel-part-1-introductory-new.html" target="_blank">check out all the links</a> because wow wow wow. All the awesome novel ideas!</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="6">November</font></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Part Two: Within the WIP</font></strong> – This is more focused on how the writing is going, what problems and victories you’ve experienced, your writing process, etc. Basically all the fun behind the scenes writing things!</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="6">December</font></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Part Three: Writing and Beyond</font></strong> – The last one will have questions asking how the full writing of the novel went and what your next plans for your novel will be!</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>The gist of it is, I throw ten novel/writing-related questions your way each month, and you can answer them on your own blog.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Though I am doing this during NaNo season since, ya know, a lot of us are <em>doing</em> NaNo. <strong>You DO NOT have to be doing NaNoWriMo to participate. You can answer these questions for <em>any</em> WIP you have. And you DID NOT have to participate in part 1 to do this one.</strong> It’s all just for fun! There are basically no rules. Plus I <em>love</em> seeing what all my writer frens are working on. So share away!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LnL9AigyLpXtlTTGNtt2zBRf--rVzcSQkJLlTzyAw3Bz7zBsKBTTY8f4EIWYDg_pDeEkAYPE2hd5Ibe4HvDXv0lqJwCu15xFc1dj7v4bsiEThkBINK5LLTXPGOw_HEM2zNj5oS6cBMTgx1DUqfi8YMXZ1QlYlPkNP3RT-_aHPXFovgOSfTELYXsc0dKiJQaa3-smVaT5CJIvRSnka9a7ZuYg0cVrCvY7P5jNF3MT15CCJHed0ypenCiifTYSOBwE-TOtPexhhWGZZqLKmbFDYHE7lEM5-xECR-I2q4SgzZaK8b5WTISU03EIA1fJ6WgjWcqg9ZFtuIw-CNRi4L2ByosIhlzq10OPe8RRguQVqfnBtS3GP5iDC2sVuK6-Z9R7YLpOj0BAkCgH83VbqRjj7P6NeNyvGnbis7m9NC8O0isuzhVPsMImnehZ4Dm1pJQD5lQBbGGjh0dJl44CsqMO_mVs_k047fVwDT_fCnySNG-1hTctsnr_lzEOZV72qLHswi-rVPsbV5xRPspSJkVyllO3kDbOuM1cNJvIiKomdtsKyDZcMRAG4F-hUdj0BIDAuJCaZWtLkITLjkn_P55zhBgiTlZ84-EEL76x7_rM_X6JhGOUEV6zMewlawp3H05uwuYjNEhFSUdBUkte88eBzEQjYUhtFVCI-IiDF2d7tLYZJkouYtlH2i0x=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Easy peasy! Now for this month’s questions!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nTmt0MafoCzjZhKLvque90rY8ddLHkbdamhZMU4FhlE_7XOWwRK5JxGV7dJH9ZXu2FBLje4ZY00ZwT331asFaKjrhiIvyDNeSwwwLWZnYBfILZ408nJIXCRfPxF9NCPdsSuXdMfIuCcc8kkAiJMyGKeLbE9Irm90U-mUxEDdVIUqOKw06-Fhik2AcjCftOYXhaonNMzxPAoGjXvgOCYywwlqcepckaz39VrVURgQDLRC1o9K-yZ-fc_WlXFa8vNsaMTOwe67h0mXHWPJAVU8yU1UYhcJk-S4y10IHwgpLEaAsEjTmeLxsEKIYf1QJYVYXKecPyiT22eLhj9UTv5UcDROfgNXKYQCArHzscPzVQUzqD6e66u3XU0MP4USyjfywsKRD-c2WwaaOyuGA_hL5aMDF5MjntpUEsY4Dn_67Q8EpWfNdRcCsIcd7r5YgsCjD7bYBQP9CSJ1hLVghkKYJksUTtIOIoJnBHr5KOss3hZCw3p-0ho6nVTChtGbkqT39MQeZNOM61302NeUTJHaxfAZuXFRCzY3dW-ZzzMt9VsR44lLuyIMgTFJD79zBI9Da56qlXsjp5uvPAui5HVcuI89ap2AAVQ-0CGlG1zoCFIuaOJd_RbZ_acIUrVL5_r_X43QT35vO6R2E3lBQnH0HrP38yGGNKNuyS5Qt4e89A1Z3HdE62lYMGGr=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">KNOW THE NOVEL PART TWO:<br>WITHIN THE WIP</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nTmt0MafoCzjZhKLvque90rY8ddLHkbdamhZMU4FhlE_7XOWwRK5JxGV7dJH9ZXu2FBLje4ZY00ZwT331asFaKjrhiIvyDNeSwwwLWZnYBfILZ408nJIXCRfPxF9NCPdsSuXdMfIuCcc8kkAiJMyGKeLbE9Irm90U-mUxEDdVIUqOKw06-Fhik2AcjCftOYXhaonNMzxPAoGjXvgOCYywwlqcepckaz39VrVURgQDLRC1o9K-yZ-fc_WlXFa8vNsaMTOwe67h0mXHWPJAVU8yU1UYhcJk-S4y10IHwgpLEaAsEjTmeLxsEKIYf1QJYVYXKecPyiT22eLhj9UTv5UcDROfgNXKYQCArHzscPzVQUzqD6e66u3XU0MP4USyjfywsKRD-c2WwaaOyuGA_hL5aMDF5MjntpUEsY4Dn_67Q8EpWfNdRcCsIcd7r5YgsCjD7bYBQP9CSJ1hLVghkKYJksUTtIOIoJnBHr5KOss3hZCw3p-0ho6nVTChtGbkqT39MQeZNOM61302NeUTJHaxfAZuXFRCzY3dW-ZzzMt9VsR44lLuyIMgTFJD79zBI9Da56qlXsjp5uvPAui5HVcuI89ap2AAVQ-0CGlG1zoCFIuaOJd_RbZ_acIUrVL5_r_X43QT35vO6R2E3lBQnH0HrP38yGGNKNuyS5Qt4e89A1Z3HdE62lYMGGr=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/k9HCh7glBEGmJC1uS1gr_B2-S3jNRpdQvg_H4dK-SjIm-Eq5bo4Dpj9HkF2kw4PXR9fRgWj9w3iPHJhKcUh_5V9quNfhpe8wtw3CwLo-DEfSpk9LDwYFjSuTWpU8Iw3NUyHq957j43ZnvSpA8EpR887Hpj9bOhN-Kj1hCsuCt4XJkprNXvTP8429-hgdJ1y0a3qhq7mVM638xs8VLiKpQlx0ssmCrdmryYls_MiAuoOq8UlTVhztr7LnES7E-RQLIZScBoXwhKHFHqC0aOqVPYfQe0dU2ipc0tmI8SvTN6zSyIbdfbFolFSDVQz_LxG0peMjXiwSynXqZY3LJwIuoZlXePbY_ghMBzuvGJIsiXxEYAeeIu9wHyyWRspyeOUPRH31jvg8ddvFwfUiJBLVbOdUmPK7YV3n55dIIUKARb9ifYDH7kuvoXNjp8ACmJdWsOB-sjXOQgar7cBvShVct9rIojsRLRlPrJAoqtki6MEkcbJ4xdFhavZJWNjn7wLJDSUVK9H5IS42VztEK73JZzSiqGR87v3D_2xvuKpwSKxV7oVRapPtYqLGpTCLZAIHlNNdYJGpmsir22CUYepzX0Cwvxe1SB99_87dDalsbUj5rjFTc-5eu-AMKCukxhXf8Mq1dJmmbYg5vexuqpu8wy9Ytn1SdT6aIiI1ie5AOuXPJsycVcrVw0Ir=w1221-h915-no" width="450" height="338"></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><strong><font size="5">I’d be honored for you to use the graphic above for your own posts, but it’s certainly not required!<br></font></strong></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><br></p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LnL9AigyLpXtlTTGNtt2zBRf--rVzcSQkJLlTzyAw3Bz7zBsKBTTY8f4EIWYDg_pDeEkAYPE2hd5Ibe4HvDXv0lqJwCu15xFc1dj7v4bsiEThkBINK5LLTXPGOw_HEM2zNj5oS6cBMTgx1DUqfi8YMXZ1QlYlPkNP3RT-_aHPXFovgOSfTELYXsc0dKiJQaa3-smVaT5CJIvRSnka9a7ZuYg0cVrCvY7P5jNF3MT15CCJHed0ypenCiifTYSOBwE-TOtPexhhWGZZqLKmbFDYHE7lEM5-xECR-I2q4SgzZaK8b5WTISU03EIA1fJ6WgjWcqg9ZFtuIw-CNRi4L2ByosIhlzq10OPe8RRguQVqfnBtS3GP5iDC2sVuK6-Z9R7YLpOj0BAkCgH83VbqRjj7P6NeNyvGnbis7m9NC8O0isuzhVPsMImnehZ4Dm1pJQD5lQBbGGjh0dJl44CsqMO_mVs_k047fVwDT_fCnySNG-1hTctsnr_lzEOZV72qLHswi-rVPsbV5xRPspSJkVyllO3kDbOuM1cNJvIiKomdtsKyDZcMRAG4F-hUdj0BIDAuJCaZWtLkITLjkn_P55zhBgiTlZ84-EEL76x7_rM_X6JhGOUEV6zMewlawp3H05uwuYjNEhFSUdBUkte88eBzEQjYUhtFVCI-IiDF2d7tLYZJkouYtlH2i0x=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118">
<p align="center"> <font size="7">QUESTIONS</font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"></font></p>
<p><font size="5">1. How’s the writing going?</font></p>
<p><font size="5">2. What’s been the most fun aspect about writing this novel so far?</font></p>
<p><font size="5">3. Has your novel surprised you in any way?</font></p>
<p><font size="5">4. What do you think of your characters at this point? Who’s your favorite to write about?</font></p>
<p><font size="5">5. If you were transported into your novel and became any one of the characters, which one do you think you’d be? Would you take any different actions than they have?</font></p>
<p><font size="5">6. Give us the first sentence or paragraph and then 2 (or 3!) more favorite snippets!</font></p>
<p><font size="5">7. Have you come across any problem areas?</font></p>
<p><font size="5">8. What’s been your biggest victory with writing this novel at this point?</font></p>
<p><font size="5">9. Be honest, have you killed any characters off yet?</font></p>
<p><font size="5">10. Take us on a tour of a what a normal writing day for this particular novel has looked like. Where do you write? What time of day? Alone or with others? Is a lot of coffee (or some other drink) consumed? Do you light candles? Play music? Get distracted by social media (*cough, cough*)? Tell all!</font> </p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5"></font></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LnL9AigyLpXtlTTGNtt2zBRf--rVzcSQkJLlTzyAw3Bz7zBsKBTTY8f4EIWYDg_pDeEkAYPE2hd5Ibe4HvDXv0lqJwCu15xFc1dj7v4bsiEThkBINK5LLTXPGOw_HEM2zNj5oS6cBMTgx1DUqfi8YMXZ1QlYlPkNP3RT-_aHPXFovgOSfTELYXsc0dKiJQaa3-smVaT5CJIvRSnka9a7ZuYg0cVrCvY7P5jNF3MT15CCJHed0ypenCiifTYSOBwE-TOtPexhhWGZZqLKmbFDYHE7lEM5-xECR-I2q4SgzZaK8b5WTISU03EIA1fJ6WgjWcqg9ZFtuIw-CNRi4L2ByosIhlzq10OPe8RRguQVqfnBtS3GP5iDC2sVuK6-Z9R7YLpOj0BAkCgH83VbqRjj7P6NeNyvGnbis7m9NC8O0isuzhVPsMImnehZ4Dm1pJQD5lQBbGGjh0dJl44CsqMO_mVs_k047fVwDT_fCnySNG-1hTctsnr_lzEOZV72qLHswi-rVPsbV5xRPspSJkVyllO3kDbOuM1cNJvIiKomdtsKyDZcMRAG4F-hUdj0BIDAuJCaZWtLkITLjkn_P55zhBgiTlZ84-EEL76x7_rM_X6JhGOUEV6zMewlawp3H05uwuYjNEhFSUdBUkte88eBzEQjYUhtFVCI-IiDF2d7tLYZJkouYtlH2i0x=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118">
<p align="center"> <font size="7">SHARE YOUR LINK</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Now for the important bit, ADDING YOUR LINK! Do be sure to use the widget below to link to your post so others can check it out!</strong></p>
<p align="center"><br><!-- start InLinkz script -->
<script type="text/javascript">
document.write('<scr' + 'ipt type="text/javascript" src="https://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=804574&' + new Date().getTime() + '"><\/script>');
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<p align="justify"><br>This one closes at midnight on November 30th <font size="2">(the end of NaNo *le gasp*)</font>. But part 3 will be coming your way on the second Monday of December. I’m excited!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/bPpGfQvY50r1ag_zsX9WA7cWWfijw2Ji5Ub4Ej-Cna9hJFExm4ePZG-_S94aYE5sAa6R2MU4W43oPNe69KMxmBWugo3TtB117c0fM4sZ3sKfOgPtZhE40CBjN4qeX2KkY_7l29UG7puQAv8-OBPaVua6GfsHejFiNbrLEEComzEg_snyLBpVAwMNFUtM4p7opBjSREpkoSHv7Eu9i-kFjM-P3gg4km0PTHdfL49DhIw1UNIq1dHSm1hzm-Drk97uL8yb43W5pkmsHecKMxzXzYJk_Ne0KOuOA9cYH0vmgGJqeFaZ24P17bnxCCyzu7sW9NQ-V8F6ouWA-t3xJkB3q-Z5dJIR0rzlrgwMk-HFIfLtiYPcP611vD61j7bEe4Fap7gt3BB-N2e0oUd88SeGShbd3X2xaHwBDTNTZ6euJI8OnWGenc7-idEBBABBwJb_zFQEwHzVmKOpxxq-0TFReHKLcyvr2YAwORWywLSk0tfrE7pSlxsBcaWTrrYjCJc9BkpoK19u1PGHMpmEOo-zppgTtnMme0pf9l7y75fRSUS5pa2S4skKle0K4HEA0h-IBLYFb3zVhQxWClXJ3Y1rrtGyvE7UwXJXxNizSnUr9YPZI_sf4QnVzpvHUipIo-cBwRr9Q1M22xC8oo0PI_E-1HhalS65pOPuuDUV95XRlySXFi7KTVMljxSp=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="5">Let’s talk writing!!! If you’re doing NaNo, how’s it going? Are you surviving? Having fun? Ready for a 12 year nap? Tell me everything! If you’re not doing NaNo, are you working on any writing projects anyway? Or being an actual sane person and taking a break for the holidays while cackling at us haggard Wrimos?</font> (Okay, but really, you guys always encourage us crazies so much and I love you all. <333)</font></font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-48868814843354413522018-11-05T10:48:00.001-06:002018-11-05T10:48:12.598-06:00NaNoWriMo ‘18 Week One: Involving Surprises from Characters, Nutcrackers, and 911<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/AK17zCI9BP47J2air9T2aRMVAAVyYnMrbjQDjFxxjwUHnUb1Xo1za7fo9UlttKHNUhuPr3aAIFGrB--RMniBzIiA03AIP1Z61wZhDmvOW0-AndNpklSCmkjkB2NuPz1po1TStBDfXt4lEOqZrhmVMuTigIcrRYPzO211ZSvggjjvbvhKjMfxWAIPo_92TQNYgZbZH-tMZ-X-ffD99kbZyR3Mqze0HuloLq-rz8wqV-U9Pkqt5UfbydgJJ6VOMJknyjbGGw8OVAyRxT0VebpEy-n_8-KBHRbZGpHFQoPJt080wO6mgwYrncuurpuuLlJUrRpcS3OX9TRmQxKOsk24kTpXl1laK32iaFyvX89W6Bmi5UmZAf7XDlY3ndiAJ1lgc_igsP_wUJDG7pwm-Tz-ICG1p0EnfgU8z3RmriMHXyZ9sk1L-DDUS9yUyycnDlQo1R5ECKbKBBhlfmdc56P2i2QPnx6xLhNdvDB6zqg8WOR5yDQ3rx0pHS6Mv4fF4nwNnx8lZxqVKhLU_QGhyxk9BXcUdM-I_SjfuXP1rWu1ELeo97Nus6OD3mn_hLChQ-LsxEuLDZKddNl0qPtEUfbzUeOeN47a4TX61tXKKVbxh79cSOHKdeGFdG0m27wA1BdCMLLIG3ozFzhKdkMfkCeGo-JDdk_J8ZrtAg2KkPmMyyOURFYR-7dW73fNRNV01T5jHVvew63tL6V2bUzu7w=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">OH HI THERE. How are you? I’m fine. Just sitting over here, ya know, SCREAMING BECAUSE IT’S NANOWRIMO AND HOW DID THAT EVEN HAPPEN???</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Ahem. Yep. Perfectly calm.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But seriously, guys, IT’S NANO. And just WUT? I think I’m still in shock that it’s actually <em>here</em> and we’re a few days in and nearing the end of the first week. It came fast and hard!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/kcwfLXwLVpGECKlWwqu6w3bDv7rpGpcUT6NEWm3LkeI1ikW931Yt5Jp37iCNcPoMJp8jj2Ob__ZlsWv-fo3vb1mIIavRgDwvY1iZegSfa2tUXJmtJeuCXZRYzHegwdtGgprp2XVsbdPOOiHJKtafWfRonMLlaimMae4iAp5nfjG0lxH9KyfoxLxC4TPiy1S7whAXvxcM8skDrviQLCDG0qOVV15XZSfe07g2zxUX3wS6RcnThERMSrpdljmxY50A-5hAxuG1EIzOsgnKG5E1DWqInIvxKBct5SkV3I_82t6cGBTr6Jpt8yUjrJVl_xJqokB7TvCtTl5UjqM9roBSqnxA2H8YbYNn4LDJVX5JCWf9cMob-aEBx6I54EY6vbFviQqy7yORMQQvCHnwhW-H70Bx-FnlwBlO91-T0T_1SySAMLCwE3iyIsjnSEr4-yyTiaNRiflR4o-36k233Yp8Os7VREy6b2ZX_Sk1Zsq-rn4dMzYFyZ93R17Eqpo_wsq0-_jW_AC0Y1mO96Xk92TYRPloRB4J3hkbZILLvw_azYTBVkh59ZA7_HwRrXbzjgRbdLAS2kXKFzfQT4d5umg_zKsR5iDwByD1VKfmgI7FybgtJfuZCrWuAIbvlkYpVxgSKgBwEYYg5fb_RPi_jupNlZfycMba_QoZkIWboEAWZJ00YkpND8c1SjRGbacjGzpoEvA7KFtZJKvNvNgZLQ=w309-h190-no"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Screaming aside, it is in fact Monday, which means I should be posting a blog post, but during NaNo I usually just explode my blog with totally incoherent writing updates <font size="3">(we’re gonna pretend that’s <em>not</em> what I do the rest of the year <font size="2">eventhoughitkindofis</font>)</font>. <strong>So if you nosy dragons are curious how my 2018 NaNo has been thus far </strong><font size="2">(and what on earth the title of this post means bwahaha)</font><strong>, buckle in!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IWMTivctz1Ybq3-AhQpAhNBkHldlZNK3XZcfQKHzUfEUkB-cDCxWocI9JQVEzX-sRy4N9hFmrrVXgKcKvZSAiuBnZmR4zIkygO8k6yv5m7bNxdcAeeIpUgqArAfi1r7Vj-vHlUTinAlf86UDyhVmq_aYV1950jx5MOvBQqc0Q30nayw9eZTE1fWGwBEXyjdtxXjQAFeqJHMn_8L4qltV0J1qxn2aWQVJLytGSHpzwpu9eD0lrqmq0_tnhAvwnaksodLDWxQdoqWX8GMHjeirjBcm_9hHVV6Ps_PsTTwDzE_2JIuaTWFRbT7akGBkgqVN3keglUdG8sHNx8CARGreR_F7RyGm7FqXFOWqT89D8LBb084ygQsoxxwzTbDl1E5mbUXdmGrrsBsu5PkBDOwJbvN3IhzB4BTy1nr4OFRjYsLR9QBKltxgXu5NJyRQCrn8zjhty32ePgn5E-eZEMvLYH2j70SxgPz3wjBVoDWcLDbs8oO38R7BylrLDCHQolfKEEusRHie5tQY2vTZspS7Lu4jZ1XFZRKw6B5JBt-wdxO-L9FBBfs_KfOOHS9Ixx_62LhXODxHDGGpQhXphIn6BlpmQP-83EngsgMlWgKTtBJptZPqEh1IfXLNCB9JcqYBeWzIV6osHS5GeocBbzPdPxTEr0J2Z3lIFcIWtIHuMGnNLhXsB_ar5aJBWv9Fq6yecokfl2nNDMSWtUil6A=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"><font size="7">NANO ‘18 WEEK ONE<br></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/IWMTivctz1Ybq3-AhQpAhNBkHldlZNK3XZcfQKHzUfEUkB-cDCxWocI9JQVEzX-sRy4N9hFmrrVXgKcKvZSAiuBnZmR4zIkygO8k6yv5m7bNxdcAeeIpUgqArAfi1r7Vj-vHlUTinAlf86UDyhVmq_aYV1950jx5MOvBQqc0Q30nayw9eZTE1fWGwBEXyjdtxXjQAFeqJHMn_8L4qltV0J1qxn2aWQVJLytGSHpzwpu9eD0lrqmq0_tnhAvwnaksodLDWxQdoqWX8GMHjeirjBcm_9hHVV6Ps_PsTTwDzE_2JIuaTWFRbT7akGBkgqVN3keglUdG8sHNx8CARGreR_F7RyGm7FqXFOWqT89D8LBb084ygQsoxxwzTbDl1E5mbUXdmGrrsBsu5PkBDOwJbvN3IhzB4BTy1nr4OFRjYsLR9QBKltxgXu5NJyRQCrn8zjhty32ePgn5E-eZEMvLYH2j70SxgPz3wjBVoDWcLDbs8oO38R7BylrLDCHQolfKEEusRHie5tQY2vTZspS7Lu4jZ1XFZRKw6B5JBt-wdxO-L9FBBfs_KfOOHS9Ixx_62LhXODxHDGGpQhXphIn6BlpmQP-83EngsgMlWgKTtBJptZPqEh1IfXLNCB9JcqYBeWzIV6osHS5GeocBbzPdPxTEr0J2Z3lIFcIWtIHuMGnNLhXsB_ar5aJBWv9Fq6yecokfl2nNDMSWtUil6A=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qh9T0AmQazbebMK79iVjBhdTlyM6DlpAe-RvvxFcBPjyg-DIS_VELGyxHsmtWdXymRPLQoJxiY6cnCdJQUn46hZqpDClGv67i18cyiZZ1loZDcd0iGgAjwQ11g8jDWaz6A3Mfz_M6FTlrjQBgctwlu--VIfT49ITZyhUk_ftuiEudHS50S3lm4RgV-kc7zggwHa0WDx0j1klIyQZGK5pjqF0s91nj18p_gnl9Xmu2Ps2rrmECSDfvGbVxCs4lP8mDkekjFqU6BWr1Q7NDfplgifaw05ASLyZanBkbbR3tS9gNkAItdrJv0qt8SaawUdlXyc-BlCyUBgx1kKmEKsZx9egs0XwZA2FX6XtYVTAnaFIIktdgkm68310od9p0nSB5wbXVlUkWBfTWS1-ocmJ12W23hYj6fli5-_YVvojCpmFh5WWWunEEMaH7SaGwKa1QTb01dq1SKPoek3Dn3XdaChXdxpMEzXwX6vshEIWk0StI1AofoEppmYqDu44mXIX9GMI_IMm-ARpF7gyz7kkDT3jQCsxPx0x046A-GFnMEw68ZQwgfLOYQixgATZWr_OizEm2NQ1xZxFt0T6MfNmVcwtr77-jbhNxLmwHBONmD4Y5CaAVCj9oS3USlv-e-82Y9YirZnL3Tt-h8Ms8C6zXGSOI4TSPjlYJbU7a3imy097Og1eQIlFMiPhUURLf1wSw7uRa2mx3YbW2mxxCw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">THE WEEK BEFORE</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I’m gonna be honest, <strong>this was one of the first years I was <em>terrified</em> I was not going to get everything done before NaNo.</strong> My outline was being a monster, my inbox had exploded, I was really exhausted the week leading up to NaNo, things just weren’t looking great. But, as I’ve mentioned before, there’s nothing like a deadline to kick me into super ultra hyper drive. I sat myself down and kicked my brain until it finally figured out my story’s ending. I attacked my inbox with full force. I caught up on social media, I did some cleaning, I even threw together a mock cover for my book which I always love to do for my NaNo novels but this year just did not think I’d get the time. BUT I DID IT.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And so, by Wednesday evening, I found myself, miracle of miracles, READY.</strong> It was such a relieving feeling! Now that I had gotten things more in order and finally had all of my novel mapped out, I knew I could just relax and enjoy the writing process. I WAS READY TO GO. …Sorta.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Every single NaNo <font size="3">(except for last year due to work getting in the way)</font>, I’ve stayed up on October 31st to midnight to start writing. It’s such a thrilling moment when that clock strikes twelve and you jump into that story you’ve been anticipating, plus get a good start for the month at the literal first second. Buuut this time I was <em>tired.</em> I had gotten up a little early Wednesday because I had work that day and, really, I wanted nothing more than to collapse in bed and sleep, but I also reeeally wanted to stay up to midnight and write some. <strong>Finally, I caved and decided forget good health and common sense! IT’S NANO. Let’s do this thing!</strong> <font size="3">(Read: I’m a terrible influence and you should probably never follow my example.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="3"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/RtjKFFhYnGINSJdenKmjvD_w0JWf7QZys9zfl5qw0c3Eacia3g6d3QdOre2iqkkYOzXR6c-tpr4qpanngNCrvWMQjMiasYtU398vUnSX6mDAn1IgcEOhVRcu-LpM8jToUyLak8Um6c69fK9xQczUsFDzXxxfI-5i1c3fzb5GkQTlyruhDaaBjrVusxSbwHTPvN5j1Ht70xXRh8pZFIgYeVWtrluT1kYEY1-4OViEbpQjWlJzz-EF-W-jDWlL0JpqzZeHBtyWt2rLsFL3HnUGmdbdjyPWKYMdo_0RxZtMeBO6Tr1tEIj0chNtkZta0Xkx6drZYmAVjhwI8o4uZPr2NtYeUCxMzWSXnt7R3p4OJ68zeK36lyZ_g4NG1WtJU30JTVCppEjzuroU03fyDc7uJGSvjqpkm0os-5rL-pSQX4RMl7ORFS5ytxAbVQ_JztsRVe0dc1aCbnH3WzKVxzboivHBvFoDwex78fkI-00u0ZvmuoRghlr_IAyOXKeZ8RgM_D1X1FM_ERL1W4uNpVAhRwOS21Vr_LTNigD4vmI1IneCeJ6TZuQ1iFmDLmGoYzOZubzzsHw1toTT8eu8gXebLAXFTpyUXGCmhauEK9SdLE8UrmtBM6jvvrptnk_E67n_qmUO5nQuVAR0WVb_JRZJs4rsigKQ7qAugJ6dFdBbMeNuJD_Ks3-XgnuIRgAUAQAfCdvNJUFvsncYa5UAfg=w500-h281-no" width="350" height="200"></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qh9T0AmQazbebMK79iVjBhdTlyM6DlpAe-RvvxFcBPjyg-DIS_VELGyxHsmtWdXymRPLQoJxiY6cnCdJQUn46hZqpDClGv67i18cyiZZ1loZDcd0iGgAjwQ11g8jDWaz6A3Mfz_M6FTlrjQBgctwlu--VIfT49ITZyhUk_ftuiEudHS50S3lm4RgV-kc7zggwHa0WDx0j1klIyQZGK5pjqF0s91nj18p_gnl9Xmu2Ps2rrmECSDfvGbVxCs4lP8mDkekjFqU6BWr1Q7NDfplgifaw05ASLyZanBkbbR3tS9gNkAItdrJv0qt8SaawUdlXyc-BlCyUBgx1kKmEKsZx9egs0XwZA2FX6XtYVTAnaFIIktdgkm68310od9p0nSB5wbXVlUkWBfTWS1-ocmJ12W23hYj6fli5-_YVvojCpmFh5WWWunEEMaH7SaGwKa1QTb01dq1SKPoek3Dn3XdaChXdxpMEzXwX6vshEIWk0StI1AofoEppmYqDu44mXIX9GMI_IMm-ARpF7gyz7kkDT3jQCsxPx0x046A-GFnMEw68ZQwgfLOYQixgATZWr_OizEm2NQ1xZxFt0T6MfNmVcwtr77-jbhNxLmwHBONmD4Y5CaAVCj9oS3USlv-e-82Y9YirZnL3Tt-h8Ms8C6zXGSOI4TSPjlYJbU7a3imy097Og1eQIlFMiPhUURLf1wSw7uRa2mx3YbW2mxxCw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">THURSDAY: DAY #1</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This year I was going to be a little itty bitty NaNo rebel (which is what it’s called when you don’t start a brand new fictional novel for NaNo) because technically I already had 1k words of this story written. Buuuut after completely outlining it and actually figuring out what’s going <em>on</em>, I decided to scrap those 1k words and fully rewrite the beginning. So I’m not a rebel this year after all!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>ANYWAYS.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>It was ten minutes before midnight, and the rush of excitement woke me up a little bit. I made some tea, grabbed my laptop, opened <em>Kings Bleed Gold’s</em> Scrivener file, stuck my headphones in, and…WROTE. And guys. GUYS. IT WAS SO FUN.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I don’t know if it’s because I had written the beginning before <font size="3">(I did change the scene a lot, but it was still more or less the same scene I had scrapped)</font> or…what. But the writing went so smoothly. <strong>Because, see, story beginnings are the bane of my existence. It always takes me a bit to get into the story and figure out the characters’ voices and grasp the right feel of the novel and just get into that groove of writing, you know?</strong> So, pretty much always, the first couple of days or so of NaNo are pretty rough and grueling. And it’s funny because every year I think, “Well, maybe the beginning will go better this year!” and then every year the beginning does not go better at all. So <em>this</em> year, I struck down that optimistic thinking <font size="2">(lololol so positive)</font> and was all set for a hard couple of days of writing. I just knew if I could get past the first days, then I’d start really enjoying the story and having fun.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Well har har. I guess I did reverse psychology on myself? <strong>Because the first days of writing were a </strong><em><strong>joy.</strong> </em>When I started writing at midnight, the words just flowed. Since I was so tired, I had decided I’d just write 500 words and then go to bed. But I ended up writing 1k and had to <em>force</em> myself to stop and sleep, but I really didn’t want to! I went to bed so happy and encouraged and raring to go.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>The following day was a gloriously free day <em>and</em> it was cold and rainy—optimum writing weather. And so I did. And wrote and wrote and wrote. It continued to go well, not perfect of course, but far better than most beginnings.</strong> Now, that’s not to say the writing isn’t a disastrous mess. I’m pretty sure it is, but that’s what editing is for, yeah?</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I think my favorite part of writing this day was the setting.</strong> The beginning starts in Midas’ kingdom which is based off Ancient Greece, a setting I’ve never written before, and I found it such a fun place to build and explore. Writing is awesome, guys! I’m just sayin’.</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>7,031<br></strong></font><font size="3">(Ehehehe…yeah. But 1k of that was the night before technically, and I always try to get as much in as I can on the first day.)</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qh9T0AmQazbebMK79iVjBhdTlyM6DlpAe-RvvxFcBPjyg-DIS_VELGyxHsmtWdXymRPLQoJxiY6cnCdJQUn46hZqpDClGv67i18cyiZZ1loZDcd0iGgAjwQ11g8jDWaz6A3Mfz_M6FTlrjQBgctwlu--VIfT49ITZyhUk_ftuiEudHS50S3lm4RgV-kc7zggwHa0WDx0j1klIyQZGK5pjqF0s91nj18p_gnl9Xmu2Ps2rrmECSDfvGbVxCs4lP8mDkekjFqU6BWr1Q7NDfplgifaw05ASLyZanBkbbR3tS9gNkAItdrJv0qt8SaawUdlXyc-BlCyUBgx1kKmEKsZx9egs0XwZA2FX6XtYVTAnaFIIktdgkm68310od9p0nSB5wbXVlUkWBfTWS1-ocmJ12W23hYj6fli5-_YVvojCpmFh5WWWunEEMaH7SaGwKa1QTb01dq1SKPoek3Dn3XdaChXdxpMEzXwX6vshEIWk0StI1AofoEppmYqDu44mXIX9GMI_IMm-ARpF7gyz7kkDT3jQCsxPx0x046A-GFnMEw68ZQwgfLOYQixgATZWr_OizEm2NQ1xZxFt0T6MfNmVcwtr77-jbhNxLmwHBONmD4Y5CaAVCj9oS3USlv-e-82Y9YirZnL3Tt-h8Ms8C6zXGSOI4TSPjlYJbU7a3imy097Og1eQIlFMiPhUURLf1wSw7uRa2mx3YbW2mxxCw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">FRIDAY: DAY #2</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>The success of the first day was boosting me on, and I started this day with a goal to end it with 5k words <font size="3">(because, pffft, who even needs a life and sanity and sleep?)</font>. I honestly barely even remember anything that happened Friday except writing????</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>By this point the story was really moving, and I got to write some high action scenes and drama which is always a good time bwahahaha! I was also getting to know Midas much better.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>While day one of writing did go well and I was loving the setting, I was not feeling as emotionally connected to my protagonist as I’d like. Midas was just kind of….there, and I feel like the writing was a bit too distant and not as deep into his point-of-view as I like. (I’m alllll about those deep POV stories.) But I wasn’t stressing it too hard. I knew it’d come, I just needed a bit more time with him.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But by the second day I was definitely getting a grasp of his voice. And he’s surprised me. Like a lot. Because…he’s nice. See, the first idea of this story was to make an extremely jerkish main character and then torture and break him into a good person. <font size="2">I’msonice.</font> Things of course evolved, but that idea is still the core of the story. I was a bit worried Midas was going to be unlikable though. Who wants a jerk of a protagonist??? But it doesn’t matter how over-the-top-detailed I make my character bios, I never <em>really</em> get to know them until I start actually writing them. My characters just kinda…do what they want. I never force their personalities, they just come. So, though I do have a huge bio for Midas, I knew I’d have to write him to fully see how he’d come out. And, like, he’s way, way nicer than I originally thought…</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/x4z2PAiB_TTcoh8qgpVrdeK5Xsv80M3wWYjFvfX5KHEF4nbAH179aU716BHTYlESQTiL6tGjTyvEudx4ZmvrjtMlHd3YVZpwLD0UnbS7jfW5QmyITd46IzX5IO1myROFFLRnC7VBfqv6wl_Gv9CXE7CXHPFVog9xxTLhNdX-_OzytrfZ7LuvM24N_dnI2wYG4ppIMxgHa_T4g2FDqo6-41lo3wFwg2wnbmWVWLnbAwmcJNCxbeUJN04X0Zelsxm8Ut90hLxKFkCL-c9oactw2bNw7XKUs07wTUpzrlbnZZtLKhCYPXBWanwz2ZuxAl-DvT44sRBlG-r_bWRxKAqT_GSHhOkhN4p1NA0SsPshHLqxXJG9WiZtwOYckJHXU0842KYcRkSY55O7O_cbvygKhd4xPWD_3BTONzZmm4uy8HzYLvqamuZVnB7KIpbRTgCBFMd90nuEU9ufXFPMBqXRd7LzTWgFF_II1VYfoZ0gzBc-RUd3Bm_JBD__lRhvaKlk3Tg0JifE3SFdVzjbiwJfgbUnndyIrVxcpvWtC-umoYUWLMB99ulNmvdRMoIulGXcu1YzwhCtqoZGFKGHcVzTgi0WxY1TN5uhNl7l2at-3mctZW3FwaFMwZ11CPv46Xtea8u-7kArAXvpQshckpVvbTOlFU19yaJgBSxvIhRPPGaNFujyA-tRtdzf391osv4PmbuBcmEejH5fdEf3Xw=w500-h281-no" width="350" height="200"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I mean, yes, he still has a ton of issues, can be a <em>huge</em> brat, has plenty of jerk-ish moments, and is selfish beyond belief, buuuut he’s also charismatic and <font size="3">(hopefully)</font> rather likable. And this is a good thing! <strong>Because now I think I can continue my plan of utterly breaking him in two, while also having a protagonist that’s not totally detestable. Win-win!</strong> He’s also proving to be a bit of a sass-master, which I’m not complaining about… Except he keeps sassing off the big, scary, murderous dragons and eheheheh good luck with that, boy.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But really, I’m having a blast figuring him out. He feels a lot different from the protagonists I’m used to writing, and I like that!</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>5,005</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qh9T0AmQazbebMK79iVjBhdTlyM6DlpAe-RvvxFcBPjyg-DIS_VELGyxHsmtWdXymRPLQoJxiY6cnCdJQUn46hZqpDClGv67i18cyiZZ1loZDcd0iGgAjwQ11g8jDWaz6A3Mfz_M6FTlrjQBgctwlu--VIfT49ITZyhUk_ftuiEudHS50S3lm4RgV-kc7zggwHa0WDx0j1klIyQZGK5pjqF0s91nj18p_gnl9Xmu2Ps2rrmECSDfvGbVxCs4lP8mDkekjFqU6BWr1Q7NDfplgifaw05ASLyZanBkbbR3tS9gNkAItdrJv0qt8SaawUdlXyc-BlCyUBgx1kKmEKsZx9egs0XwZA2FX6XtYVTAnaFIIktdgkm68310od9p0nSB5wbXVlUkWBfTWS1-ocmJ12W23hYj6fli5-_YVvojCpmFh5WWWunEEMaH7SaGwKa1QTb01dq1SKPoek3Dn3XdaChXdxpMEzXwX6vshEIWk0StI1AofoEppmYqDu44mXIX9GMI_IMm-ARpF7gyz7kkDT3jQCsxPx0x046A-GFnMEw68ZQwgfLOYQixgATZWr_OizEm2NQ1xZxFt0T6MfNmVcwtr77-jbhNxLmwHBONmD4Y5CaAVCj9oS3USlv-e-82Y9YirZnL3Tt-h8Ms8C6zXGSOI4TSPjlYJbU7a3imy097Og1eQIlFMiPhUURLf1wSw7uRa2mx3YbW2mxxCw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">SATURDAY: DAY #3</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Writing has honestly just gotten more and more fun with each day, which is usually what happens in the first week. Now I was <em>really</em> getting a grasp of Midas’ voice and finally delved into that deep POV I felt like I was missing at the start. <strong>I was at last not just writing words on a page, I was living them, which is my absolute favorite feeling.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This day of writing was particularly fun because we got our first glimpse of SYRAM. Midas met the crazy boy for the first time, and I may or may not have been grinning through the whole scene <font size="3">(because fangirling over your own characters is normal???)</font>. Then, at the end of that day’s writing session, Korinna entered the picture, which was a scene I was quite looking forward to. I didn’t get very far into it though, <strong>but leaving in the middle of a scene I was excited about helped me jump right into writing the next day</strong> (which is something I should remember…).</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>5,556</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qh9T0AmQazbebMK79iVjBhdTlyM6DlpAe-RvvxFcBPjyg-DIS_VELGyxHsmtWdXymRPLQoJxiY6cnCdJQUn46hZqpDClGv67i18cyiZZ1loZDcd0iGgAjwQ11g8jDWaz6A3Mfz_M6FTlrjQBgctwlu--VIfT49ITZyhUk_ftuiEudHS50S3lm4RgV-kc7zggwHa0WDx0j1klIyQZGK5pjqF0s91nj18p_gnl9Xmu2Ps2rrmECSDfvGbVxCs4lP8mDkekjFqU6BWr1Q7NDfplgifaw05ASLyZanBkbbR3tS9gNkAItdrJv0qt8SaawUdlXyc-BlCyUBgx1kKmEKsZx9egs0XwZA2FX6XtYVTAnaFIIktdgkm68310od9p0nSB5wbXVlUkWBfTWS1-ocmJ12W23hYj6fli5-_YVvojCpmFh5WWWunEEMaH7SaGwKa1QTb01dq1SKPoek3Dn3XdaChXdxpMEzXwX6vshEIWk0StI1AofoEppmYqDu44mXIX9GMI_IMm-ARpF7gyz7kkDT3jQCsxPx0x046A-GFnMEw68ZQwgfLOYQixgATZWr_OizEm2NQ1xZxFt0T6MfNmVcwtr77-jbhNxLmwHBONmD4Y5CaAVCj9oS3USlv-e-82Y9YirZnL3Tt-h8Ms8C6zXGSOI4TSPjlYJbU7a3imy097Og1eQIlFMiPhUURLf1wSw7uRa2mx3YbW2mxxCw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">SUNDAY: DAY #4</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This is the day the true adventures began.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>As I said, I had left on a scene I was enjoying, and jumping back into it took no time. This was Midas’ and Korinna’s first meeting, and I was curious to see how they interacted. Which…to non-writers <font size="3">(and probably even some writers)</font> may sound weird but, as I said earlier, my characters just do what they want. I really NEVER know exactly what they’re going to be like until I start writing them, and then it’s even more so when they’re first interacting. Like…will they like each other? Hate one another? Be super awkward? WHO CAN KNOW.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I feel like first character meetings are like being a parent trying to set up playdates with new friends for your kids and hoping to goodness they get along.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9ZNvouxWBDkZfPU0q--M1n4EW5cCixRj6LJv-kfqhe0j5GiTyW4q87ZJr0SWYkpK5isHFodzaeGsam3GdEMxvp_8DGykTJlNVB39mHFsC3Qt3zPO6qv4OaoBSXY3HYTqZPx68TdxeDeboP4qbunHekH6y4mSlDDyzWMVF6US4PQlP6ZWImDCK0HZFK7EcHmxcWDX2xivn2_q_AVO1N8Sd7aRnGP7SY-4Dkf5GX7qp4YO6182VX7VA2Q-JWA5VWu8igp3kz8N1Ng9nrpmRVNanl2c8stf3WAk6gIMv3q5ko38rxKz_EDmEAyK-FOH9AziQaCUff2TyCEfr7DMVg9-PkGvC1A2wBLC_yWEMGof5LfRezz1T6d3CY0WHTCeyKJdNUfFmp4V6gnuPaHrWh3XOF3IMrX00fiKGdYGK8INE-VEQ3OTZLYAk3I3i54ov3t9fB_eAwr_BxnkaCuy3aBUq7hlcHAFOao7Cu1thHGPjlOt9rVOr1B2JTWA-YSr5jC5E9KUK81pEps5AWxfvP-xXVETxGBkBvPCFzDtzK4pXna-6wJaU_jZc2uC7mvyJinUsuYLt2-ei6kGChMN0eM4fP7dx4ig5SSNk0n7skV-0ZlYBWlRvNrCFqurJuDFeRCl1JVaxV-o-IzQM6GEyhcw2NGfbL4sXR_MhVk6_FMS7IscHafDOIPYhExyMuiAtvMJVhE9r7tofZRqeFicDg=w500-h225-no" width="350" height="161"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Except…oftentimes the goal is for the characters to <em>not</em> get along in order to create conflict, and we writers spend like 96% of our time figuring out ways to makes our characters lives worse so, um, maybe comparing us to parents is a bad thing. Ahem.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>ANYWAYS.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I’m pleased to say the first meeting between Midas and Korinna went super well, and now I’m really excited to write more scenes between them. I think the dynamics between them and Syram are going to be SO FUN.</strong> <font size="3">(I just love characters, guys!)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>So most of this day’s writing was their conversation, and I was having a lovely time. <strong>I had to cut the writing a little short though, becaaause I was going to see <em>The Nutcracker and the Four Realms</em>!!!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/GYPu_gOAUz4PggxBxOyUz4QQ9EsGI8Mybq-evcvnIAfKw9y00NKVKfwRMFIGdHLHRIGr0QvuaIOdFO5Hu-1UZ-bOzN_cFtGX-teddwQZ3PQ0yH6Dple0o8qG9c2QjCc9xH_mZr0FVLiUjAxLnO_wBJQqa4jiv6lKIoIR8oifeXgefK1mlTkKc6-DN2rM63G1ZdbwM5BXStZftR5dBPkFxSDk8VMUO8-l7FyOd43D93JxnFf6I403fxrnnM8kwDucrL72HOgrYDWTxkkE3zccS7lrfKz3ahDFDyfHAyXMXivZ1SzKWD1_7hoAHCFFs9jYJm2TAwWS1dgxZR5i6uLzMvBR714SIpWssoU2zOo5Jnkwq0bWdfD12WoYNJhI_QtDU0XOqQj6PjSyr8yHavkWbaNTMkperdeBRmHwO6pSpV5j3Slwq43_Wgt5GaDBubi7wj6Liw1-PlxBDdVOBtJuDAGQpyVN0fZO5ANfEAVswkBVw11VFRy9CEPPmOWqB95IKc9tePVnIXsh6AZgH5y_l1AwRmDH7Dl79Q-dkGS5BTv7lKvvqtd2wnQShJHoB5Wj4QbOLclIH3SZYcdNGciknDkmFsz_kgHv8edHFv_JnAU9gnFa4SWqqjOBCTZ1T4VKuxZnaGhr6dLWtr6jiXEcEuJo0arf26d-IMj-G5iDyH1tgh-qGRIIrN7ew3kbqUKW293Vboog_IYQrpT4nw=w1024-h576-no" width="600" height="340"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I have been screaming in excitement over this movie since the day the teaser trailer came out last <em>December.</em> I’ve always, always adored watching ballet and I really like the story of The Nutcracker and go to see pretty much anything Disney produces so yeah. I WAS EXCITED.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And…it was good. But it didn’t blow me away.</strong> *ALL THE TEARS* Really, it had all the right elements. Clara was a good heroine, everything was GORGEOUS, I adored all the things being run on clockwork, the fantasy world was awesome, there were some fun scenes and lovely music. But…it just didn’t enthrall me. <strong>I think the problem was they had this big, awesome, fantasy world and didn’t really <em>use</em> it. The plot was way too simplistic and straightforward, and honestly just kind of lame.</strong> And I have this weird pet peeve about simple plots being set in huge, intricate, epic worlds. Like…no. If you’re going to promise me an epic world, I want a big, epic story to go with it. But I think that’s just a weird Christine thing SO.<strong> I still totally recommend going to see the movie! It was definitely worth the watch, and actually had me tearing up a time or two. I just expected more.</strong> <font size="3">(I think after the pure perfection of Maleficent, my expectations have been too high for these new Disney movies. Because Maleficent was EVERYTHING and I want more like that!)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>But yeah, it was definitely a great break to go see the movie, especially since movies are one of the biggest things that refills my creativity tank, but after looking forward to it for almost a <em>year </em>I do wish it had enraptured me more.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>So that happened. And then, later, my sis and I were in the car with my dad. <strong>It was dark and rainy, and we were at a red light, minding our own business and discussing supper plans, when, right in front of us, a car smashed into another one, spun out, hit a pole, and bumped into the front of Dad’s truck.</strong> O____O Um. Yeah. Cue the panicking.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Dad called 911, everyone scrambled out of their cars, and, praise God, <strong>no one was hurt.</strong> Which, really, was a miracle of God. The front of the first car was destroyed, and the one that spun out was pretty much totaled. Yet still, somehow, the person inside was unscathed. Still thanking God for that! My dad’s truck just got a dent in the front, nothing major.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zDhB4Mwf7jmVIWp7TfbX2wK-NVVE2WbbGkg5xa4NTamONrmymxdAYsf5YN9w3mdM6GuAGsF37OPFfMuJ1eJf_F_NAibAoocfUpWUJYiWtjqKGzGPEExdAErnEq2AJ5qyouGpv3wTS4dNOT9mG2n2GnCDO31tOt1gQmUkRD9yQFgWA-cASYrmxJ9jx-qqaxqNgrW7Tuc7krjUZPOFGGqhDFHHa_5ziDfWtZ6GpRzFM9LchOSnzNc7RQ9RuQcoZI0SmfdOpa2FDD03knCZ2Q41GWucP1b73p6X7YGWP7Whf8xsk5qBZSglGg7WGRGQmDapCTVdQUp4h251BHtCOZdTzDKVRolpXUplt3qj2u_wxAlbapFeA-qAOrSEsuCs9Z8Qk_dk8Lre8c6nIDS-WDxqbkCoesfkGUxw_Z480KxMjCZ0tM5MAc1oGaOqbdLnWYyJm3F4dqhPsOmxiyEfqZBeCZKsE6aDbmKQiuGPceOU2FDv0VBzV4paWZfGe7JrCrDzI9i0OPGWikvdqMs20zoZQiI0iOeCwG7L3xy54CSnMVktok7ikxyDd_MACslOsVW8tK_wg2N4jf7mk4GipmtjU2IkQ9VxVMz8QL6xh7tD4AAkKtnprNNQ4-IVsHOACimTyTLGtkhcOk92xPKpT9MIQVx6zx1Jqhfb-_vf5ntrLcx7M9SNoNii32WFZkpWxiAkhFXtqSl_3V-tgVDfCA=w1221-h915-no" width="500" height="376"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>But yeah, that was quite the adventure. I’m just so, so grateful everyone was fine. Definitely an unexpected way to end our Sunday evening.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Needless to say, this was a much slower day of writing than the previous ones.</strong> But I did get in that good bit of writing at the start of the day, so I’ll take it! And I guess now I have an interesting experience to remember this NaNo by??? We’ll look at the positives. Eheheh.</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6">WORDS WRITTEN: <strong>1,714</strong></font></p><strong><font size="6">
<p align="center"><br></font></strong><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HT5FaJ-y_whbB3tkteQBR8qNXQvNK1yjk93S8285wBOl68IXHiLec0K2gM-iyzmLyDhkKURlipc1zJgH4TNbyY4m3W0VGemBhEmWu7GL6nP4EUE2f6JeR_9mIDP0IVm2qbTcX5TuHf5nXBOt8WqutOvWpMLuz0qaPn4iII-6KyihyPVOae5ZvbalTT3mBD_28PFUSdcriIy9kYFBzsT8xyJsLTeD8axeTikXzjrGYA6ZiiLsL_KgRfrJS0354_156SHi8csJPVZMnWHjbEaxSDrvrP6i_MHJxTC_7MiwfXBBtSNiR2UpJz21i0IQuhaweFf0jvT0XAW2w2VgMr5JrN2MlBguyBiGsv4ZhGTCLLncArQw0FGRl-91EAnC4yV2Mj-fDb-UPrr_OybUfohEKYyzO8AKj6hXLnYD3aBx5uWNm-DzMElhnhU2Y7prM6KNbo4A9IzkC3Z9YEPf6HJUEOcGkw1yX1X3YqjZQrGVB4jcWG3R1QDjV9LfsRkjq1cKX86PDei4XlEK6AT6hvRv8p7vPrIIJoF54j_x2fK0AA_duhs9NqPz5yQxHvWgNu1HLOHdcI-GFdnTcxjx1qGM8Z44DI3rLo521QJJbzcWmOb9dJmL0J2_IKt7NeO77CX2calMNJb9RLUXjOXSjw5vPp8LtRdZCnL3rUdZBHyl4GpkRe4gY68txBhNvCQ7C1w4X84aIfRUbmSq5_6Tkg=w1920-h395-no" width="300" height="63"><font size="6">Total Word Count: <strong>19,306</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I had really hoped to hit 20k, buuut obviously I was a smidge preoccupied yesterday.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/qh9T0AmQazbebMK79iVjBhdTlyM6DlpAe-RvvxFcBPjyg-DIS_VELGyxHsmtWdXymRPLQoJxiY6cnCdJQUn46hZqpDClGv67i18cyiZZ1loZDcd0iGgAjwQ11g8jDWaz6A3Mfz_M6FTlrjQBgctwlu--VIfT49ITZyhUk_ftuiEudHS50S3lm4RgV-kc7zggwHa0WDx0j1klIyQZGK5pjqF0s91nj18p_gnl9Xmu2Ps2rrmECSDfvGbVxCs4lP8mDkekjFqU6BWr1Q7NDfplgifaw05ASLyZanBkbbR3tS9gNkAItdrJv0qt8SaawUdlXyc-BlCyUBgx1kKmEKsZx9egs0XwZA2FX6XtYVTAnaFIIktdgkm68310od9p0nSB5wbXVlUkWBfTWS1-ocmJ12W23hYj6fli5-_YVvojCpmFh5WWWunEEMaH7SaGwKa1QTb01dq1SKPoek3Dn3XdaChXdxpMEzXwX6vshEIWk0StI1AofoEppmYqDu44mXIX9GMI_IMm-ARpF7gyz7kkDT3jQCsxPx0x046A-GFnMEw68ZQwgfLOYQixgATZWr_OizEm2NQ1xZxFt0T6MfNmVcwtr77-jbhNxLmwHBONmD4Y5CaAVCj9oS3USlv-e-82Y9YirZnL3Tt-h8Ms8C6zXGSOI4TSPjlYJbU7a3imy097Og1eQIlFMiPhUURLf1wSw7uRa2mx3YbW2mxxCw=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">CONCLUSION</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Other than yesterday’s little hiccup, it has been an AWESOME start to NaNo ‘18. And I feel like the farther I get into my novel, the more I’m going to love it.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But don’t get me wrong. It has not been perfectly smooth sailing.</strong> I know there are going to be plenty of hard days ahead as the holidays get closer and life piles up and burnout takes root. And don’t think every word has come easy for me! I’ve been agonizing over how to word things like every other <em>sentence</em>, and literally keep thesaurus.com permanently opened because apparently coming up with a different word for something like <em>dropped</em> is too much for my tired brain??? I also suspect every word of this novel is a monstrous mess of grossness <font size="2">(I haven’t dared read back over any of it)</font>. <strong>BUT.</strong> <strong>I <em>have</em> been enjoying the story immensely and <em>am</em> getting words down, and that’s what counts! Just have fun and make a mess, guys!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Also, I know I’ve said this before, but I think it bears repeating: <strong>The <em>only</em> reason I’m able to get a high wordcount in each day is because I do not have a full-time job, go to school, or have children and such like that, and, due to health problems, I live a pretty quiet life in general.</strong> I honestly don’t know how so many of you manage to keep up with NaNo amidst school or work or raising children and just all the things you do. YOU’RE ALL AMAZING.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Just remember, we all have our own pace and a certain amount of craziness in our lives, and there’s nothing wrong with that one tiny bit. So write when you can, don’t stress it when you can’t, and just enjoy the journey! Because writing is seriously a magical thing, you guys!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Week two is near approaching, which can often be the hardest one as the excitement of week one has worn down but there’s still such a long road ahead. But let’s face that road with our adventure boots on <font size="2">(or am I the only one who feels like adventuring whenever I wear boots?)</font> and race across it with enthusiasm. WE’VE GOT THIS!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5RvDrcHwdR3VRifkF0GI9FMQDDl7aPPusZweEpRFAoXExUI5UZpNakMMVWWJ4KS1DyPvjZ1bq2kOc50kt8Ho44lUNlrdrpacXYBe3eRlDPFhJ99JAWTI2KdZEB8W1kdrN6wbPiMjZ_0_7m1Mi2eM0ineMGb_B5KQe8MwCygQsxytXb2-zilNI7iHQpcQpsav1ZCqlFaBUVCM3llbOlE9CSREEZcXnaTUEIZ0eHpyHAI7L2ESPzva0OunnWGtKVW7PMztIs_upZCA-vNfxtGWjkGHvKxyCiRimdsIrO1bujgoEwee39jiuhc_sk8IgwLdw8PVxjkiNCTLN2w00uPxfAFPIszYdvUKIN8nEkpwIL4LED_UNLDnZCdKZG8xVIxFO6CxAwl3sWzvNyPcUPYMNHCw7sWYBXY8Mmx6vUCHe1SK85dENNXHDtig8hvOaK15F7JxTUZkKvmytkYDoJsRdtdJkG25DtqQ4pdGggt0lrUoX1NkbQ7C8f9D1XRqJ8Im3GRfbhcuV8geXtTETFU-cUgSp3E2xKS559yNF5iuHxjf2vFi4XjO3vS-ufleTZt1h3zLPdq1LgurAGUipy-p1YR0Al5JKpQS9NI8MdIfXHp92h511WzPC-CsE52aqVNTJVN1TL7kVGH2Ivdwg2h5Imdj55CfFIz9ISOwX9Snn5uhkUC-J5dJ0e7BlYEZes8HnrmF2-VHmV7ppnMk3Q=w269-h200-no" width="300" height="225"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/HT5FaJ-y_whbB3tkteQBR8qNXQvNK1yjk93S8285wBOl68IXHiLec0K2gM-iyzmLyDhkKURlipc1zJgH4TNbyY4m3W0VGemBhEmWu7GL6nP4EUE2f6JeR_9mIDP0IVm2qbTcX5TuHf5nXBOt8WqutOvWpMLuz0qaPn4iII-6KyihyPVOae5ZvbalTT3mBD_28PFUSdcriIy9kYFBzsT8xyJsLTeD8axeTikXzjrGYA6ZiiLsL_KgRfrJS0354_156SHi8csJPVZMnWHjbEaxSDrvrP6i_MHJxTC_7MiwfXBBtSNiR2UpJz21i0IQuhaweFf0jvT0XAW2w2VgMr5JrN2MlBguyBiGsv4ZhGTCLLncArQw0FGRl-91EAnC4yV2Mj-fDb-UPrr_OybUfohEKYyzO8AKj6hXLnYD3aBx5uWNm-DzMElhnhU2Y7prM6KNbo4A9IzkC3Z9YEPf6HJUEOcGkw1yX1X3YqjZQrGVB4jcWG3R1QDjV9LfsRkjq1cKX86PDei4XlEK6AT6hvRv8p7vPrIIJoF54j_x2fK0AA_duhs9NqPz5yQxHvWgNu1HLOHdcI-GFdnTcxjx1qGM8Z44DI3rLo521QJJbzcWmOb9dJmL0J2_IKt7NeO77CX2calMNJb9RLUXjOXSjw5vPp8LtRdZCnL3rUdZBHyl4GpkRe4gY68txBhNvCQ7C1w4X84aIfRUbmSq5_6Tkg=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">To all my fellow Wrimos: HOW’S IT GOING??? Have you survived the first stretch of the journey? What are some victories you’ve faced these past few days? And to my non-NaNo-ing readers: How was your first week of November? I do hope these cool, crisp days are treating you well <font size="3">(and that we NaNo-ers haven’t driven you totally up the wall with all our NaNo talk eheh)</font>. TELL ME EVERYTHING!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-66034728099114763142018-10-29T09:41:00.000-05:002018-10-29T09:41:32.669-05:00Know the Novel Part 1: Introducing Kings Bleed Gold<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5Wrp2KbDjOdE0jc4XveuNKUH-F2mIDtpxdo4CEQbXl8S2_EUJmrATCpjzo89isjTT7t5DqIoyQDkDPtBQIJ3YCJ92egOcSUfl3sUgTN_D1YvlkiTTOoMiN3LA6JZdGLq10p1O6aCU55gWSIf6v9aD29_0NfwcYJwScEoAsMxXe2mgHUwJqCyUXDO99ha3kyNuI4gXOe5jC1FqeDjQRu1qAUObILDjBBv6AOijlBUEZxW4r2e4pZYe5mbYmjoPVu5g1iioIB4nKgV58umvGuE4QXN4PkOWfJYjG2aH7HBSUcu3zEh9M_9cHHtFbkhx3WbCDLv7E2q7be9tamI5XbLVM2ILNrbZAdxAkjoQavgxeS8spH0cpl5iWlBmdriq-CnhcTcsXirCnDghhGgdzGUlpGJvmUBu0ahq4CF5qOCCrMHlIqXmArNn4QPfZFVXAEjof1B7GoCn6ubPGpxN0TPPiKsc3UbYPgPHno0CFS6tjNeMEG-EkaUuzxGdaFGqckzd4DHufCczcYLSuEMxxZ6eiAsS2C0iA1riDkAiNeRdRotq1_iLK0jk3AMZ8K3CVlUgeJKEv75NPpgtNtAyA2tJIInnJ68MTH_3v9OxwMoOqI1cBWleYg9T5tya7A7dmZUNcHTaxMhQlMYl4C52yTdOMhHo3_Y8kjhPLEbI9uZFbtpkktwqZzdd4mk=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">Look at me actually joining in on my own linkup and telling you guys about my NaNoWriMo novel. And only 3 days before NaNo. I’m always so on top of things!</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><font size="5"><font size="4"></font><br></font></strong>Okay, in my defense I didn’t really know all that much <em>about</em> my novel until now. But I’ve been feverishly outlining it and digging into my characters and doing tons of worldbuilding and I ACTUALLY KNOW WHAT’S GOING ON NOW. Woot, woot! Or, well, we’ll <em>pretend</em> I do. Ahem.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>ANYWAYS.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Today I’m going to be answering the questions for my Know the Novel linkup, which you can find info for </strong><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/know-novel-part-1-introductory-new.html" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a><strong> if you missed it.</strong> But basically, it’s a 3-part linkup that asks questions about your novel and writing that you can answer on your blog (or anywhere on social media!). Part 1 runs through October, so there’s still a couple of days left to join in if you haven’t yet!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/5ptcsJ9xCod-YyLkDQLc__52w023I91xYu6JulUoCQ67qTaL3U879O-_Q8M6sPYn7-4EP9Uw3FN1leb9K1c7XLhopvhkC8ZUEmGWr9BDNbicy8INotH5xyKF1mHHn0EFldBxTxe8vnTLWSz8eNS8UWANY0UGyh_JEFqrDMHsHNYUxDFbrzElPxGBkQRGQHGl8w-PHe1uCzlTn4vZcbK42mMAMt1oSNRTsfeJjYz9-15ZEna5GsMD6oObLR6u9_T-W1uBRNMcZ9O5HMeRqtV8fkrdqFzBFk3oNo6b9dr8UFj1la-3N9WWMcvshyCevjCSgdGkhjgu-ESrWYeTTeHnIz6H8Y0emPKc20oByHWe0rDZnFdbhYWLY1_x3eY2a-E5coAE69CFvAn01ONO3pogg6kzHeZhR6uBTb0_SzBGidBRqh6vZy18ZFSvZsxCy696_g-0ThySDWtGYQVmZFC_K5pQFuCsYGOqrOPoZZVM7kFqZFyRuBElUWfhCaTx1dxIn31GXcHYvLuvNkw9K9UDcfaXlfYatQqXNumD0pDsgy32C6EOAthUIGFE0hGr-UPbvtlQKnzt3xuCh8F9mtxAe1Qbh-TI7gTR_5mGOjCG8cttC4lJrhxypfi43xM3k05A7MAseFQMheDdNXmVENtZCG2cjVok2u90fjpr4YN4ExWEzWl3JdgM7hFD=w1221-h915-no" width="450" height="338"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>SO. <strong>I am fiiinally properly introducing my NaNo novel, <em>Kings Bleed Gold,</em> which is a King Midas retelling WITH DRAGONS.</strong> But also creepy fairies and an underground city-type place and weird magical technology and so. much. pain. It’s gonna be great!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>HERE WE GO.</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="3">(Note: All the following pictures were found on Pinterest and do not belong to me. If you click on them, they’ll take you to their Pintrest pages.)</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/klucvem0q8el8IIFYKFp2bqrZhdFmXz2pcAwzMthaQsLFpU-W6Nc0I3aaPP-F0QOQYkDjRvo6BLVoVWWq8CZx92lzOn2MBQDGXhrejvC9vmQZZS3_fgoBpE39gRspULaa4js_7EifnZfeOcj0WyTwtygtrjzQXYXvM9AkiPQ7RM8PvitII44BTm1ibcwShe00zDUfB8qf2aGBhwrLjxJ3Oa06vlBU6CvPmLHnjbuJL7HU9GXbqlIlxL9zEKA_AV8uYVGrO3HIvd3e-JsvZin-nY-b760mpXOIC_kJmt2db3iLckSJhT9NZ2GNOaSamwAl6dn44sq0dtbDHd92q_qJjawIiZs1E2Bi_NeuHLPUKMCItvjrULmEDkUP2bZ9gk8oGc9yw0zoFCTLLeAMigVCiKUtwGMTEupxRSdkqaUARp8V89u9GWM--ZSDy48uiLXAK7bP8Lm18osdjz3jKzldOPJ5-8L_FbZFOywkpsRwN5kspFgINTTDpJcGS40MSy0ydn2ZblcwiNhrGeZchyBObxPAKKq3nKQXHc2SHP3FFbG54Ni3afE4AIdQpHUb3MqcMHjcJWaQWsFvKVbQxNQ-53UVig2b9eqgRR9X2r3_rNpp9owOuX4O1corSwYbvWIbJ9v7t3X8Ls6SxkG9y6DFsL7WXB78IRgzF7JV0XWg9lRVdqNJfhhuT4XZY4IZE0fMtkdB8PIbYg05OV_Cg=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101">
<p align="center"><br><font size="7">KINGS BLEED GOLD</font><br></p>
<p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/AApt5QaAfyZtYjA5K6vSnlgHPh848r5JaQQYFxG-18DOHmdmdRBCF_ufP7yPlulAX70e-BFnJvDhbBvhKv0GnM1kgH5I7_dQvaMxG3XTIb61KSUJrn8rCWuPjPJtTIz1kUmFSvKXLB70B6uP15VFPy4BwV5jj4HFbJsVobgFkG_gUpnXs5SBFuxVW28rp9VLJLfu2X7lBTmKbLbvEESV-ZIfcNYpoAv1VBrV0jvQnnPokkrSwNd4v_gwscEuLXUssdU62YcMP_Npp2VN6gIlYD8wwRrit2OTrLYsQJRsZRBKCbfYDF4zwQReKE7lgCJNOHkAWJtHnsywx4G7zBcjAhkTtJOxaE_7H5aT_TpOj-HVFksdRFkGrPvOb5HfalpkUqcLS-Wbso-7MZPz-jGH0bjDlzRuam1BsOxgt2cjx9ExFwl2uP2Fk2R1WVLqUxqIKWaC3Wn87w8-CaUi9G3r4p2ynzd7TcE5oFDnZ_WRSB4yxRRedFGyORJh7_vd8-60PvswIXXQlgatH6If1yVsZaJ5PUr23mcrMCCzNJEBULbLLA25gYBQeq8Ac_jNl0OGwFjQjujibbxuiLGge4lJrerz-1VVGGl_zWYPdURVQZohyCOR66gMu7fT3-dPyXN7XmbTTA-6uWbErD0HUtEPRmz69Y4tRUFvQn_lHAVO3Kaoskl5ccIk4GFCR91B07JxQ0lFQvs8R-GRjv3KFA=s915-no" width="500" height="500"></p>
<p><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/klucvem0q8el8IIFYKFp2bqrZhdFmXz2pcAwzMthaQsLFpU-W6Nc0I3aaPP-F0QOQYkDjRvo6BLVoVWWq8CZx92lzOn2MBQDGXhrejvC9vmQZZS3_fgoBpE39gRspULaa4js_7EifnZfeOcj0WyTwtygtrjzQXYXvM9AkiPQ7RM8PvitII44BTm1ibcwShe00zDUfB8qf2aGBhwrLjxJ3Oa06vlBU6CvPmLHnjbuJL7HU9GXbqlIlxL9zEKA_AV8uYVGrO3HIvd3e-JsvZin-nY-b760mpXOIC_kJmt2db3iLckSJhT9NZ2GNOaSamwAl6dn44sq0dtbDHd92q_qJjawIiZs1E2Bi_NeuHLPUKMCItvjrULmEDkUP2bZ9gk8oGc9yw0zoFCTLLeAMigVCiKUtwGMTEupxRSdkqaUARp8V89u9GWM--ZSDy48uiLXAK7bP8Lm18osdjz3jKzldOPJ5-8L_FbZFOywkpsRwN5kspFgINTTDpJcGS40MSy0ydn2ZblcwiNhrGeZchyBObxPAKKq3nKQXHc2SHP3FFbG54Ni3afE4AIdQpHUb3MqcMHjcJWaQWsFvKVbQxNQ-53UVig2b9eqgRR9X2r3_rNpp9owOuX4O1corSwYbvWIbJ9v7t3X8Ls6SxkG9y6DFsL7WXB78IRgzF7JV0XWg9lRVdqNJfhhuT4XZY4IZE0fMtkdB8PIbYg05OV_Cg=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"><br></p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eZIS-QCMK6-T8CLVwKFyBXRD-jdMdDtfIY6_7x2Q7RJNUrWXHiEzXzeqWhMtzzwgVlQQ0fLumB9HdD-gesy8jlFMLWc1W56irhCQGdkE1bmRKNyBx_1Fx7e5qgyVbhzcoTFR6P8Mfi-KHY9dRJJJZeTy4xaBE6zUNVDMlkiypl8VrKUpDDizPHAVVjSuhg_lmPzLsSmiDTz8YAOM5GFjFw4uVlTU4tMdTrgMNbJtHxze3y527JRVUj_nXRyfa01xpP_NFXgU-FRnj88NAwAKq_HP2vGfMIYxFMz5nfHm76gUUEVMxPwPlFyeGmy2cu8yWQISaZQBFqlwNjrRg4oENdHuUVjA0DHJXcaEY1NWNjbcwVtXVxjAOphiReuv3GggfLvE17q_fihHFCgwgJZ1vTodpYidKs60Mve59XXOTjeFHQQ1-nO_r9jCTiSj9aM-84UGNEYOK7YzlrRso5m6q1CHZErj04DwtHfMlIFc32PMLUaDPeZLouTkeQ9GTyeLvxArP8dnX1Fhv1A1D-9XiJfPrWV8Ik3i4T89kmzgC-XNPem4fMFTRWJHh2VRPNy6WFeGtbinBftCiVOqjXSWNXg4LS826grPgEQhiMUQ-iJQBcHp_YiCRk3tfL9U2EusHoYRn0IYZNO6To1EaCrMhfAwZYMvqXLu5Czxck685kwx8ZJvbhoSOIZ7cd2kJnbGjdJQli6DoadrPn1dZg=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">1.) What first sparked the idea for this novel?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>That’s a funny story actually!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Back in last October, my awesome friend <a href="http://jenelleschmidt.com/" target="_blank">Jenelle Schmidt</a> created a twitter challenge called #Drachtober, in which she gave us 31 dragonish questions to answer on twitter for each day of October. (<font size="3">And she’s running it again this year, so if you follow me on </font><a href="https://twitter.com/Lauriloth" target="_blank"><font size="3">Twitter</font></a><font size="3"> and have been wondering why basically all my posts have been about dragons, that’s why! <font size="2">Of course, most of my posts are about dragons anyway. *cough*</font>)</font> <strong>One day, the prompt was “Best Friend for a Dragon”. I spontaneously said King Midas, because I thought, what dragon wouldn’t want a best friend who can TURN EVERYTHING TO GOLD HE TOUCHES? </strong>I mean, gold, dragons. It just makes sense!<br><br>Buuut then, being the plot bunny plagued writer I am, my brain ran with the idea and was like, <strong>“But what if the dragons weren’t <em>friends</em> with Midas, but enslaved him because of his ability???” Annnd here we are.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This is the original tweet:</p>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="https://twitter.com/Lauriloth/status/922505945393098752" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/W75ID4qONQ3053lR6Jh_pqyISj9_YakOBw2dwQq6W2VAg4z_NO06Uv4ZGXjMdbNXu3nI9RO8z_jUTA0F39jjgd6JB0pewlU-OpwMcVC-9PXvH-M6l5eaUgzB3N4gXNi333Y_AizeQ1htwolnzsjxmBBT4_w6fhRzjbOlMYREoqhtGKCclJbGzyhE70Oxt2KMdGN1LgSlkpqUxTebMSthX4V5I54CC42M9EMyrHHs5D8eCi1DxBrbeutqVQXwoQXxcec62c3pzXnjDQsyi9KeChSkkUBNFGB36JbD7x9-uoDu_1A3B3YKNLae5b481dVkFm2lKnQRJjP4ITfjEjdvgun2S7CmfKZES5XGbXfOhaY4fYfCJuqzSX2yk4B-AUp6zfAkOdTX83Ktyn0WB5vcQzdsdbZQ_ikkPzS-BTaSv_Tp_AgeBgtqjuMqdYzr42qDsU_24zvPPNBYvYTHtQ7k5hYhusGkPDdd9IMkC7KKbGWHua6QhqlR5hXhtCA0ujCHpmkZHN1keFmhXdKKO1uZ-95Pl1AAORu89tXHlPZ4-C1AbXQHkOVoC41Q5P-_WrQsiOU62UMdwmcgAjfgsWPySAWv0Nfo-P4NXXQRCux3XoK4RvNiFEfJRQu9rBd0Nf1I8YYj_hbwBScxf2VMdXNPOjcL1rpnmKEfaUTunuiana2s7NiOizjabvBes0mJSqqfVCbmYSgBBkAY2cd05A=w995-h804-no" width="450" height="364"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><br>So I’ve had a year to mull over the idea. Though it wasn’t until September that some fun plans for it attacked my brain. It was at that moment I knew it had to be my NaNo novel. But it’s been fun plotting it literally <em>exactly</em> a year after the first idea for it came!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But yep, you can blame Jenelle for this story. I don’t even know if she knows this is her fault… If you’re reading, THANK YOU, JENELLE! <3</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eZIS-QCMK6-T8CLVwKFyBXRD-jdMdDtfIY6_7x2Q7RJNUrWXHiEzXzeqWhMtzzwgVlQQ0fLumB9HdD-gesy8jlFMLWc1W56irhCQGdkE1bmRKNyBx_1Fx7e5qgyVbhzcoTFR6P8Mfi-KHY9dRJJJZeTy4xaBE6zUNVDMlkiypl8VrKUpDDizPHAVVjSuhg_lmPzLsSmiDTz8YAOM5GFjFw4uVlTU4tMdTrgMNbJtHxze3y527JRVUj_nXRyfa01xpP_NFXgU-FRnj88NAwAKq_HP2vGfMIYxFMz5nfHm76gUUEVMxPwPlFyeGmy2cu8yWQISaZQBFqlwNjrRg4oENdHuUVjA0DHJXcaEY1NWNjbcwVtXVxjAOphiReuv3GggfLvE17q_fihHFCgwgJZ1vTodpYidKs60Mve59XXOTjeFHQQ1-nO_r9jCTiSj9aM-84UGNEYOK7YzlrRso5m6q1CHZErj04DwtHfMlIFc32PMLUaDPeZLouTkeQ9GTyeLvxArP8dnX1Fhv1A1D-9XiJfPrWV8Ik3i4T89kmzgC-XNPem4fMFTRWJHh2VRPNy6WFeGtbinBftCiVOqjXSWNXg4LS826grPgEQhiMUQ-iJQBcHp_YiCRk3tfL9U2EusHoYRn0IYZNO6To1EaCrMhfAwZYMvqXLu5Czxck685kwx8ZJvbhoSOIZ7cd2kJnbGjdJQli6DoadrPn1dZg=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">2.) Share a blurb!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Ugh, who created such hard questions? <font size="2">Oh wait…</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Okay, so I kind of hate this blurb with a deep, burning passion. It’s so terribly written UGH. But I just have not had time to spend perfecting a blurb, so…this is what you’re getting. <font size="2">Sorry.</font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>Midas has gold running through his veins—literally.</p>
<p align="center">One day, when young Prince Midas and his little brother were out on one of Midas’ crazy adventures, they stumbled upon a da nerai—one of the secret homes of fairies. It was there they found the golden pool, and there Midas nearly drowned. With the help of his brother, he managed to escape the strange waters, but when he emerged, he quickly discovered anything he touched turned to gold, including his brother. After that terrible accident, Midas chose to assure his new ability would be a gift and never a curse again. He would use it make his kingdom the richest and greatest in all of Ellador. And his little brother, forever encased in gold, would be placed in the throne room and be honored for his sacrifice.</p>
<p align="center">Now nearly eighteen, Midas is almost of age to take his place on the throne and truly enact his plans. But someone else has other ideas for this boy with the golden touch.</p>
<p align="center">Life of pleasures and luxury quickly turns to tragedy when Midas’ kingdom is ravaged by a beast he barely even knew existed—a dragon. Next thing Midas knows, he’s being swept away by the terrible monster into an underground world full of dragons, strange, magical devices, and enslaved humans. The dragons have one goal: to live on the surface world. The problem? The sun is poison to them.</p>
<p align="center">With the aid of fairies and their magic, the dragons are creating a way to block the sun’s poisonous rays. But to use this magic, they need gold. Now with Midas in their clutches, they have an infinite supply.</p>
<p align="center">As Midas goes from crown prince to slave and forced into helping the very creatures that destroyed everything, he begins to fear that his ability is actually a curse after all. For if the dragons’ plan succeeds, a reign of terror and darkness awaits not just his kingdom, but all of Ellador.</p>
<p align="center"></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eZIS-QCMK6-T8CLVwKFyBXRD-jdMdDtfIY6_7x2Q7RJNUrWXHiEzXzeqWhMtzzwgVlQQ0fLumB9HdD-gesy8jlFMLWc1W56irhCQGdkE1bmRKNyBx_1Fx7e5qgyVbhzcoTFR6P8Mfi-KHY9dRJJJZeTy4xaBE6zUNVDMlkiypl8VrKUpDDizPHAVVjSuhg_lmPzLsSmiDTz8YAOM5GFjFw4uVlTU4tMdTrgMNbJtHxze3y527JRVUj_nXRyfa01xpP_NFXgU-FRnj88NAwAKq_HP2vGfMIYxFMz5nfHm76gUUEVMxPwPlFyeGmy2cu8yWQISaZQBFqlwNjrRg4oENdHuUVjA0DHJXcaEY1NWNjbcwVtXVxjAOphiReuv3GggfLvE17q_fihHFCgwgJZ1vTodpYidKs60Mve59XXOTjeFHQQ1-nO_r9jCTiSj9aM-84UGNEYOK7YzlrRso5m6q1CHZErj04DwtHfMlIFc32PMLUaDPeZLouTkeQ9GTyeLvxArP8dnX1Fhv1A1D-9XiJfPrWV8Ik3i4T89kmzgC-XNPem4fMFTRWJHh2VRPNy6WFeGtbinBftCiVOqjXSWNXg4LS826grPgEQhiMUQ-iJQBcHp_YiCRk3tfL9U2EusHoYRn0IYZNO6To1EaCrMhfAwZYMvqXLu5Czxck685kwx8ZJvbhoSOIZ7cd2kJnbGjdJQli6DoadrPn1dZg=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">3.) Where does the story take place? What are some of your favorite aspects about the setting?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I am <em>super</em> pumped about the setting!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>It takes place in a fantasy continent called Ellador. <strong>Midas’ kingdom, Chrysafel </strong><font size="2">(name subject to change)</font><strong>, is based off ancient Greece, since the original King Midas myth is Greek.</strong> Plus I really like ancient Greek culture. It’ll be fun to attempt to write it for the first time! So some of the story takes place there.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Then there’s where the dragons live, which is underground because the sun is poisonous to them.</strong> FUN STUFF. And their homes basically hang from the ceiling and there’s weird glowing creatures and all sorts of crazy fantasy thiiings.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I’ll also be incorporating African culture. THEN there’s the places where the fairies live which are basically these secret forests dotted around the world that you can only get through by special means and they thrive off this special kind of magic</strong> <font size="3">(that involves gold hehehe)</font>. And all the fairy stuff is based a lot off Celtic culture. I’m even incorporating the “fairy ring” myth for something fun. I’M EXCITED.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/395683517258755183/" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/EFjVeGRVPHuuVZHiEEjLrEZIYged8kesKQe8aJz08dujxWTTp3fsqJIputPq_7g2ONhIayLFfofhCKd6GLvE7N-LGNnh1N8MbHkqeo7zf3NrfAgkt0QlI59L0SIjI6rKfTZz7Ez8mCNnfXdp-DEbK-nlRoA1yACd3ZQDXG_a2DBsra0LKH2nc_ceo-xNUmT5ol9LoYS5PFK8MzjGd8qgnUUTCXtbz9jBMK93OCijUpDc8FVYYNUqEespbjCp-nKy7hbI2SsE3QwDD2uhMAQUrPSM9XH5ZJ5J1nqCxHVeZ57oGWoWJeL3G-cgTYpInw6_qumYVvY0wyWjMg6axhVVPzXLObL9ZJEtTFz6Z5z_UZK_MMpNN9lCmRYsSPrbFY4khgt12xXoh3t5zI4sYJH8cpcD_xvMjvxneyDOI62dpp4_OGWncT58wSiYvxsUIYzcvEJR5jJKmQEU24otvdRBcpwlDGbA-5VE0l6_X7VE714Asb9UH2iGKhpsKzTkt5UnsuUbQhPoZr-PJH96R8ghPUQevbO08glezRvJLGI6bzE9fTlMkB-nMwpVGK8BvQPIYqXgCoh1s2on59FS2M3UbUu9op2PfMKZdU7s7Aj4_j0p1kxeNMU2-moPKMddGWv530Nt6F1yqZ7atFFHIcsYY8zj3b6qJkuL-OferdBoXc5RAUwJ2HvJ3rBj9gaDUZhRJ9HfdHVoBpuPPsoTIw=w564-h501-no" width="420" height="374"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So yeah, it’s probably my most diverse, wild world yet, and it makes me really happy.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>But what’s probably my favorite aspect is it’s not going to be fully medieval-type fantasy like I usually do. Yes, a lot of the world has that flavor, but I’m also adding technology that runs on magic. There will be these special machines and weapons that are kinda futuristic, kinda medieval, kinda fantasy-esque all at the same time. Plus a lot of other stuff, like strings of light made with gold magic and yeah. <strong>Pretty much all the magic needs gold or blood or both to work.</strong> It’s gonna be interesting! And I really hope I can pull it all off. Eheheh…</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eZIS-QCMK6-T8CLVwKFyBXRD-jdMdDtfIY6_7x2Q7RJNUrWXHiEzXzeqWhMtzzwgVlQQ0fLumB9HdD-gesy8jlFMLWc1W56irhCQGdkE1bmRKNyBx_1Fx7e5qgyVbhzcoTFR6P8Mfi-KHY9dRJJJZeTy4xaBE6zUNVDMlkiypl8VrKUpDDizPHAVVjSuhg_lmPzLsSmiDTz8YAOM5GFjFw4uVlTU4tMdTrgMNbJtHxze3y527JRVUj_nXRyfa01xpP_NFXgU-FRnj88NAwAKq_HP2vGfMIYxFMz5nfHm76gUUEVMxPwPlFyeGmy2cu8yWQISaZQBFqlwNjrRg4oENdHuUVjA0DHJXcaEY1NWNjbcwVtXVxjAOphiReuv3GggfLvE17q_fihHFCgwgJZ1vTodpYidKs60Mve59XXOTjeFHQQ1-nO_r9jCTiSj9aM-84UGNEYOK7YzlrRso5m6q1CHZErj04DwtHfMlIFc32PMLUaDPeZLouTkeQ9GTyeLvxArP8dnX1Fhv1A1D-9XiJfPrWV8Ik3i4T89kmzgC-XNPem4fMFTRWJHh2VRPNy6WFeGtbinBftCiVOqjXSWNXg4LS826grPgEQhiMUQ-iJQBcHp_YiCRk3tfL9U2EusHoYRn0IYZNO6To1EaCrMhfAwZYMvqXLu5Czxck685kwx8ZJvbhoSOIZ7cd2kJnbGjdJQli6DoadrPn1dZg=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="4"><br></font><font size="7">4.) Tell us about your protagonist.</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>I sort of have three. Midas is my main, <em>main</em> protagonist, but two of the other characters play key roles. So I’m gonna cheat and give a brief description of all three!</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6"><strong>MIDAS</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><em>ESTP, almost 18, extremely ambitious, bit of a lady’s man, really good at rationalizing his questionable behavior as a cause for the “greater good”, charismatic and fun but not always very sympathetic.</em></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/395683517257969922/" target="_blank"><img style="float: left; margin: 7px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZBNttgxIVJF0zDAYNQl-KlweaQ7J52gMQJZ7cDqHjCURddoJk9ZWLi1-wB8bWeaO8XW7qNQDLpny6T8QTOTkcqOYZh8GtxvxUhSbL8lR4lBo-P0xyWpz_cNv44-JxTZusDHcfvz25K0zen8AWjbq0PkMQ5Vev5jbz6Q9RPwodV9oOm0DI7hjUP_Bl166nQPgGm_9IDtKK63MB96-zcuca7K0xSg_fKlC_QSHX3VFBHbD-7sg5GmU7WvgOaZfX_Jpx7iCtAwgYbvXij58wkCXhY3yJp6wi_YPsLIDjpGaj2wedSPn-Q-kgPdezd9o8Mar-6mrQKmfBh71PsgzlbUnna-RaREI13dfMxCaXG8VI9mq3IYSNgnD0NeGO-ccBLYgaS_lK_nrTvHrzDZTjZ4JSNC28aU69w_ASj2I94j7KA9uk7dxUxO0AU34xkZlLcZCYu5eB-q-OMKsw6nfarkpUsS_oNsmMfHV2wO6K0VaWTocMuYWh3mkmf8efE95pxv_DnV48tUXE6ao8IasQnawAR5ny7iOasWfat9DBwwgCOabN148P65uwfEhcYnicYF3S3xOOvbFZvaCreQE7E_nlHj_6a5PKZ3ukcmiFXFuiqY3dL5-ytB_1YS7oRvRN8nLbIPXDhZHuM-jXjWBBnbZ7hBRgVqXVt8beMt_61V5VO_bVQNhm7As5JMfX6vcnkBHRfEELo8bPmWv_8JhgQ=w400-h600-no" width="215" align="left" height="320"></a>On the surface, Midas is actually a really fun guy. He’s always good for a laugh, has great conversational skills, and can charm the wall if he smiles at it hard enough. But that’s the problem, all his relationships never go <em>past</em> the surface. He’s far too caught up in his goals and ambitions to truly care and think of others at an emotional level. It doesn’t help that anyone who touches him turns to gold, so he has to be very guarded with his human interaction. He’s convinced himself he doesn’t need any deep relationships, that being able to use his ability to make his kingdom the greatest in Ellador is worth the sacrifices, buuut well. He still has a heart. <font size="2">*smile, smile*</font> It’s gonna be <em>so</em> fun to completely and utterly break him of his selfish, cocky, warped-thinking self. Bwahahaha! <font size="3">(Also, that picture of him isn’t exactly how I imagined him (plus the guy is too old lolz), but it’s close!)</font><br>(If you want to know more, you can check out my Language of Worlds post I did for him <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/08/the-language-of-worlds-linkup-my-new-wip.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.)</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6"><strong>KORINNA</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><em>ISFJ, softhearted, kind, broken, extremely smart but far more of a feeler than a thinker, lets her own fear constantly drive her, probably could use a hug or 12.</em></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/395683517257682737/" target="_blank"><img style="float: right; margin: 30px 0px 0px 15px; display: inline" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/J9ABerNBLlLRseFQepe_c3FMXVqggLW9DtBB5seMIa9-WZ-fR4apalZwLCRbWCdPdPinswRCnzNkbXTxDm2QmtbbinxOIhIUd2IXX_rVBrwMu0zvtZncDD-ktuu2Sxv9cY5IjVsHAxxE8RBsvL7F_hlsDFAkF5AKnvFhSObVSzmx-nrSQ5XAMSValRpJ1OL2_0Np3eIhZxPGgZuZKXP5MMcSDHyjwOnMQpGnrxL4HBHsX4Pe1aY7Ct5EWc7ccWKIKdUSLwT7iYAiVMjVd3AW3n6VOPzUqvM8Opn39gr1Y568h0_9oF7WxSPdjv_KNsMC_mBjtT1nq5Lh6-42SR0ZDAjbC8dJZZRTVxppTK3u04tgsN5w3_S5Sq8Bf1Qn0sqScwArxtsu5_RnQrV7Qhv1yDqkVjEosJhPSaD0FPPcvylqtktt85xNga9FeOHZ0i004h0XbWZu-7PIJbyiOBYC7mJFW896BcY9RD81UtdF5Z1gIwk1XxavI5RdJm6x8-kU_dj0m4vZnPXO2GT8DQyD-bQGSoyn1Hdho9hDWrzOlYJK-Ug-Zl2tAXKhwFhD1t1gGF9wLUJ8NP_iBQ6StnAzJIMVaNj8K0I2knzFdnuP-k_eB0UgFoOg17GzvdOJJ9Xk4dIf0Vt3YgohJswBgpbjqoAPPaC0_GfI8x4eBwbtUhiwxWtkwiWCSIFtsd7QGoOz_FUsw3ESHJIjDT1tCg=w365-h440-no" width="230" align="right" height="276"></a><br>Korinna is a warmhearted soul, though her fear, depression, and determination to keep everyone safe is her ever-driving force and can often hinder her relationships. She would do anything to assure no one gets hurt, even if that means putting herself in harm’s way. She is organized, efficient, and focused—all around having a good head on her shoulders. Her sharp wits mixed with diplomacy helps keep her alive, though she won’t shy away from a debate if she sees an injustice that needs to be put right. Her want to keep others safe and happy very often hinders in her own happiness, as she’s not quick to share her own fears and worries, despite always having time to listen to other’s needs. She carries her own emotional baggage, making her a highly sensitive being. But, if you can find her in the right mood, you will see there is a fun-loving, mischievous person behind that shroud of emotion and fear.<br>(I also did a Language of Worlds post for her <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/the-language-of-worlds-korinna.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.)</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6"><strong>SYRAM</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><em>INFP <font size="2">(I think)</font>, spacey, somehow both wise and childish at the same time, surprisingly intelligent, rather quiet and private, relaxed and very sympathetic to others.</em></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/395683517258505199/" target="_blank"><img style="float: left; margin: 1px 15px 0px 0px; display: inline" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_5mS-Oviutlamzfc0VHJ9vR7tTXv16uwaIChIJ1MOHLdAzK-o68pnXAY19Yu3wJQav0vkDPbCsiWitaRdbO0kPjxip9tUkrPiSPv4Ap9VOW6vqeJfwb0EVuA0KlCXQF6TIMTkANQCiqyXohZ3V6gokS3Q0ttWTdDXli5jp9t0lD42i9eHj2n-WSQ5PlOYUnkDQCiNP-EYtTNdkRIFYZ-tf5OqAV4gv8uJu9cBbOq_6-wzgagZkhCcYt7V3PW9jrC19Ya8cskOC3DyKLqDHbXQPZz_sSpjW6BakfCp7kVd6rB8lIxN7XE1LTnJCowIhTRFucojSYzxL7u6qBpPphlNap_YZltyKzRVEuRw_VXWDBIuTEt_kAb0Jq98AiLswEsyFG38HcdYb1iL8YUdaMikevRMVGN6EEp1Otl4PaniFAzSXeyqNPKOl70ac6Wt9X2MUqPK7U2ccO5Iz6CDiABeGb6L9Q0fJcSWrT-yRI1VG7sHT180NIqMPh2qATacRnJqOeEzPtEtvji1OGZHDt4AxGW52abFP8GKzR3iDPtBxaO_3wKj95yK8YFRIW9qkVdU0BWxgbA7wa29qZAhxqKStS-bSmyGDBGb-y9qd9FkPvh-JMBxoINH6jtYPK5macPyRe_SVSI0homG5bPoIuM-rwlZEbpP9JKFLkRft94Mi96H8KwM_-q6yR7Z1WKq1qkzMeK49lCD7GMJfbDrg=w400-h571-no" width="230" align="left" height="325"></a>OKAY GUYS. This guy may be what makes me the most excited about my novel. I know I’m not supposed to choose favorites but… *GRIIINS* Syram kinda popped out of nowhere while I was outlining <font size="3">(and also wouldn’t tell me his name for like TWO WEEKS)</font> and I fell in love. Some of my favorite types of characters EVER are those off-their-rocker, not really all there types, ya know? The…well, the crazies. Such as Winter from <em>The Lunar Chronicles.</em> I LOVE THOSE. And here Syram bebopped into my brain and pronounced himself such a character and I was all WELCOME!</p>
<p align="justify">As I said, Syram is a not always <em>there.</em> He’s known for his vague looks and off-the-wall remarks and sometimes childish behavior. But then, every once in a while, he’ll say something so wise it sounds like he’s 100 years old or something. Despite his strangeness, he’s the nicest person you’ll ever meet. He’s a harmony maker, and his calming presence can be very comforting. His shortcoming is the fact that he very rarely reveals anything about himself, being private and too concerned about other’s wellbeing. As a result, he carries a huge emotional load. But he’s also hardworking, creative, and very fun-loving. And he has a mysterious past and everyone but Midas and Korinna hate him because of <em>reasons</em> and he’s kinda broken inside because I always torture my favorite characters the most. SO YAY. FUN STUFF. <font size="2">ButseriouslyIlovehim.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So those are the three I shall be spending all of November with.</strong> I AM EXCITED. And don’t worry, there is <em>not</em> a love triangle between them. I’m actually super, super pumped about some purely platonic but deep friendships I’ll be exploring in this novel, including an awesome bromance between Midas and Syram. MY FAVORITE.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eZIS-QCMK6-T8CLVwKFyBXRD-jdMdDtfIY6_7x2Q7RJNUrWXHiEzXzeqWhMtzzwgVlQQ0fLumB9HdD-gesy8jlFMLWc1W56irhCQGdkE1bmRKNyBx_1Fx7e5qgyVbhzcoTFR6P8Mfi-KHY9dRJJJZeTy4xaBE6zUNVDMlkiypl8VrKUpDDizPHAVVjSuhg_lmPzLsSmiDTz8YAOM5GFjFw4uVlTU4tMdTrgMNbJtHxze3y527JRVUj_nXRyfa01xpP_NFXgU-FRnj88NAwAKq_HP2vGfMIYxFMz5nfHm76gUUEVMxPwPlFyeGmy2cu8yWQISaZQBFqlwNjrRg4oENdHuUVjA0DHJXcaEY1NWNjbcwVtXVxjAOphiReuv3GggfLvE17q_fihHFCgwgJZ1vTodpYidKs60Mve59XXOTjeFHQQ1-nO_r9jCTiSj9aM-84UGNEYOK7YzlrRso5m6q1CHZErj04DwtHfMlIFc32PMLUaDPeZLouTkeQ9GTyeLvxArP8dnX1Fhv1A1D-9XiJfPrWV8Ik3i4T89kmzgC-XNPem4fMFTRWJHh2VRPNy6WFeGtbinBftCiVOqjXSWNXg4LS826grPgEQhiMUQ-iJQBcHp_YiCRk3tfL9U2EusHoYRn0IYZNO6To1EaCrMhfAwZYMvqXLu5Czxck685kwx8ZJvbhoSOIZ7cd2kJnbGjdJQli6DoadrPn1dZg=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="4"><br></font><font size="7">5.) Who (or what) is the antagonist?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Well, basically all the dragons for one.</strong> They <em>are</em> capturing people and dragging <font size="2">(and I just typed that as “dragoning at first, which I guess is also accurate?)</font> them underground and enslaving them. So nice. This’ll be my first book where dragons are <em>evil. </em>It’ll be interesting.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But then there’s also a certain group of fairies that end up being a <em>huge</em> part of the plot and make things even messier.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>And I guess sometimes Midas is his own antagonist because despite being really smart he’s just so, so dumb ugh.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So yeah, there are antagonists everywhere.</strong> I basically never have just one main villain. Because why do that when you can make your readers scratch their heads and go, “Um WHO are we rooting for and who are we hating again???” <font size="3">*smile, smile*</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eZIS-QCMK6-T8CLVwKFyBXRD-jdMdDtfIY6_7x2Q7RJNUrWXHiEzXzeqWhMtzzwgVlQQ0fLumB9HdD-gesy8jlFMLWc1W56irhCQGdkE1bmRKNyBx_1Fx7e5qgyVbhzcoTFR6P8Mfi-KHY9dRJJJZeTy4xaBE6zUNVDMlkiypl8VrKUpDDizPHAVVjSuhg_lmPzLsSmiDTz8YAOM5GFjFw4uVlTU4tMdTrgMNbJtHxze3y527JRVUj_nXRyfa01xpP_NFXgU-FRnj88NAwAKq_HP2vGfMIYxFMz5nfHm76gUUEVMxPwPlFyeGmy2cu8yWQISaZQBFqlwNjrRg4oENdHuUVjA0DHJXcaEY1NWNjbcwVtXVxjAOphiReuv3GggfLvE17q_fihHFCgwgJZ1vTodpYidKs60Mve59XXOTjeFHQQ1-nO_r9jCTiSj9aM-84UGNEYOK7YzlrRso5m6q1CHZErj04DwtHfMlIFc32PMLUaDPeZLouTkeQ9GTyeLvxArP8dnX1Fhv1A1D-9XiJfPrWV8Ik3i4T89kmzgC-XNPem4fMFTRWJHh2VRPNy6WFeGtbinBftCiVOqjXSWNXg4LS826grPgEQhiMUQ-iJQBcHp_YiCRk3tfL9U2EusHoYRn0IYZNO6To1EaCrMhfAwZYMvqXLu5Czxck685kwx8ZJvbhoSOIZ7cd2kJnbGjdJQli6DoadrPn1dZg=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="4"><br></font><font size="7">6.) What excites you the most about this novel?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>SYRAM!!!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Oookay, lots of things!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I am excited about the setting,</strong> I think it’s gonna be a lot of fun. I’m also looking forward to trying my hand at mixing an old world setting with magic and some technology.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I also<em> really</em> like the concept of the fairies.</strong> They’re not your average little people with wings. In fact…the don’t even have wings, and are normal human height. But they do have magic and wildly colored hair and grayish skin and golden eyes and <em>antlers</em> growing from their heads and live in these areas that are kinda sort of in alternate dimensions and they’re all bound to each other and yeah. I really like my fairies!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/395683517258535547/" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/WZVYW0UwdUXO8slyvWm9lTtu5cYenI7wR8O2YJH0POQd8scJUQvNlXTtxt1OAdmieLKjhfex-YtmUCTIIr6dK9kuGu_JmF5RV868l87FgCT9cJHFkHwJ2cjwHjNnO0SXiXiKBehMdwLJcn5PSz20l53cZ5TjDnyiFU6teMPM5YAd7gl19UhF2zTdM886yEf-ulNGwjb2llJ_XmlA50_LIWqI3C0lHPbE2kaEjylwCCtq5yBw5ptyqBFYQzHkPL71-bCjpskTr0NIJxfs5YKOt3Tle8dVqTDEdWKM5jbBbFd82GT7wBM-X8NFrYtZLxYT4lol7eAJE9cRfBufqg9p1gRKfd3loOSBk2o7eYgFGVKACkCUqse-s7b5Lf8ai_EXDQKi-yM7ww4NXNgZCRL9KQTQ50rTCVVcAgG7uIJK3DXu10Cv1YfH1g7KRnmwF0v74d4TPqIGwmTqY87QeI8z7NZ7u8xhy3fw1QlfbceeDtN_EKR8b-V0Sg_UgTqCIvvxs3hHxRBDHZPpPd7-vYxq6tbNM0Mq8-xNRjJnPx-2Geo2wgBammg9KTOuD9yASIHHAV6QUE9BJ601oCM58UAJ7xUYlADO0lxK5rg_6y2OXQYv72Sj0mVILWUimBSQXo043NK0QQbFazpJQM1eonGKImGe-x0QqcDR0-OToVtzt36LbgFH5bKQjnIQVa8lX4JBY1BHavuxJ5dRphR9fA=w540-h766-no" width="270" height="381"></a><font size="2">Basically how I imagine my fairies.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>And this is weird, <strong>but I’m excited about how emotional it’s going to be.</strong> I KNOW. I have a problem! But like, my favorite scenes to write are <em>always</em> the ultra feelsy, painful ones, and this whole novel will basically be one giant ball of pain with some pretty heavy themes and IT’S GONNA BE FUN. I’m really not making this sound any less weird. Should I be worried about myself? <font size="2">Probably.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Also DRAGONS.</strong> Last year was the first NaNo novel I ever wrote that <em>didn’t</em> have dragons. IT WAS CRAZY. <strong>It’ll be nice to be writing about dragons again. My happy place.</strong> Except this time they’re not-very-nice dragon which is kinda new for me but it’s gonna be fun!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eZIS-QCMK6-T8CLVwKFyBXRD-jdMdDtfIY6_7x2Q7RJNUrWXHiEzXzeqWhMtzzwgVlQQ0fLumB9HdD-gesy8jlFMLWc1W56irhCQGdkE1bmRKNyBx_1Fx7e5qgyVbhzcoTFR6P8Mfi-KHY9dRJJJZeTy4xaBE6zUNVDMlkiypl8VrKUpDDizPHAVVjSuhg_lmPzLsSmiDTz8YAOM5GFjFw4uVlTU4tMdTrgMNbJtHxze3y527JRVUj_nXRyfa01xpP_NFXgU-FRnj88NAwAKq_HP2vGfMIYxFMz5nfHm76gUUEVMxPwPlFyeGmy2cu8yWQISaZQBFqlwNjrRg4oENdHuUVjA0DHJXcaEY1NWNjbcwVtXVxjAOphiReuv3GggfLvE17q_fihHFCgwgJZ1vTodpYidKs60Mve59XXOTjeFHQQ1-nO_r9jCTiSj9aM-84UGNEYOK7YzlrRso5m6q1CHZErj04DwtHfMlIFc32PMLUaDPeZLouTkeQ9GTyeLvxArP8dnX1Fhv1A1D-9XiJfPrWV8Ik3i4T89kmzgC-XNPem4fMFTRWJHh2VRPNy6WFeGtbinBftCiVOqjXSWNXg4LS826grPgEQhiMUQ-iJQBcHp_YiCRk3tfL9U2EusHoYRn0IYZNO6To1EaCrMhfAwZYMvqXLu5Czxck685kwx8ZJvbhoSOIZ7cd2kJnbGjdJQli6DoadrPn1dZg=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="4"><br></font><font size="7">7.) Is this going to be a series? Standalone? Something else?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>Ehehehe. Funny story about that.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>When I decided to write this book, I had <em>every</em> intention of making it a standalone.</strong> Right now, standalones are more popular than series, and as much as I enjoy series, it’d be nice to write some standalones. That was my goal for this book. A pure standalone, no exceptions.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>……….</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Well. Then I started plotting, and more characters appeared and the plot got bigger and more convoluted and ideas kept coming and I may have wailed because HOW WAS I GONNA FIT THIS ALL IN ONE BOOK? And I had an existential crisis or two and questioned everything and got really stressed because I did <em>not</em> want this to be like a 200k beast NO.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Then I took a deep breath, prayed about it, mulled it over and…<strong>I decided to make it more than one book.</strong> *LE SIGH* I’m hopeless, I really am. But, honestly, the second I decided it, <em>all the </em>stress was gone. It just felt…right.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So yep, <em>Kings Bleed Gold</em> is no longer a standalone. BUT, I am <em>determined</em> it will not, not, NOT go past a trilogy. Although, I’m actually hoping to make it a duology, but obviously my hopes and plans mean NOTHING.</strong> >.> But yeah, no longer than three books. I REFUSE.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eZIS-QCMK6-T8CLVwKFyBXRD-jdMdDtfIY6_7x2Q7RJNUrWXHiEzXzeqWhMtzzwgVlQQ0fLumB9HdD-gesy8jlFMLWc1W56irhCQGdkE1bmRKNyBx_1Fx7e5qgyVbhzcoTFR6P8Mfi-KHY9dRJJJZeTy4xaBE6zUNVDMlkiypl8VrKUpDDizPHAVVjSuhg_lmPzLsSmiDTz8YAOM5GFjFw4uVlTU4tMdTrgMNbJtHxze3y527JRVUj_nXRyfa01xpP_NFXgU-FRnj88NAwAKq_HP2vGfMIYxFMz5nfHm76gUUEVMxPwPlFyeGmy2cu8yWQISaZQBFqlwNjrRg4oENdHuUVjA0DHJXcaEY1NWNjbcwVtXVxjAOphiReuv3GggfLvE17q_fihHFCgwgJZ1vTodpYidKs60Mve59XXOTjeFHQQ1-nO_r9jCTiSj9aM-84UGNEYOK7YzlrRso5m6q1CHZErj04DwtHfMlIFc32PMLUaDPeZLouTkeQ9GTyeLvxArP8dnX1Fhv1A1D-9XiJfPrWV8Ik3i4T89kmzgC-XNPem4fMFTRWJHh2VRPNy6WFeGtbinBftCiVOqjXSWNXg4LS826grPgEQhiMUQ-iJQBcHp_YiCRk3tfL9U2EusHoYRn0IYZNO6To1EaCrMhfAwZYMvqXLu5Czxck685kwx8ZJvbhoSOIZ7cd2kJnbGjdJQli6DoadrPn1dZg=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="4"><br></font><font size="7">8.) Are you plotting? Pantsing? Plansting?</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br>So much plotting. <strong>Like, detailed character bios, a list of reminders for important bits about the world and such, and, um, a 16k chapter-by-chapter outline type of plotting</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Do I over plot? Probably. But at least I won’t get writers block during NaNo! Woot, woot! <font size="3">(Unless my outline decides to jump off the deep end but we’re gonna pretend everything goes as planned. <font size="2">I really, really hope everything goes as planned</font>.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eZIS-QCMK6-T8CLVwKFyBXRD-jdMdDtfIY6_7x2Q7RJNUrWXHiEzXzeqWhMtzzwgVlQQ0fLumB9HdD-gesy8jlFMLWc1W56irhCQGdkE1bmRKNyBx_1Fx7e5qgyVbhzcoTFR6P8Mfi-KHY9dRJJJZeTy4xaBE6zUNVDMlkiypl8VrKUpDDizPHAVVjSuhg_lmPzLsSmiDTz8YAOM5GFjFw4uVlTU4tMdTrgMNbJtHxze3y527JRVUj_nXRyfa01xpP_NFXgU-FRnj88NAwAKq_HP2vGfMIYxFMz5nfHm76gUUEVMxPwPlFyeGmy2cu8yWQISaZQBFqlwNjrRg4oENdHuUVjA0DHJXcaEY1NWNjbcwVtXVxjAOphiReuv3GggfLvE17q_fihHFCgwgJZ1vTodpYidKs60Mve59XXOTjeFHQQ1-nO_r9jCTiSj9aM-84UGNEYOK7YzlrRso5m6q1CHZErj04DwtHfMlIFc32PMLUaDPeZLouTkeQ9GTyeLvxArP8dnX1Fhv1A1D-9XiJfPrWV8Ik3i4T89kmzgC-XNPem4fMFTRWJHh2VRPNy6WFeGtbinBftCiVOqjXSWNXg4LS826grPgEQhiMUQ-iJQBcHp_YiCRk3tfL9U2EusHoYRn0IYZNO6To1EaCrMhfAwZYMvqXLu5Czxck685kwx8ZJvbhoSOIZ7cd2kJnbGjdJQli6DoadrPn1dZg=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="4"><br></font><font size="7">9.) Name a few things that make this story unique.</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Well, I guess the entire concept of King Midas and dragons is kinda unique???</strong> Maybe? I literally have no idea. I’ve never actually <em>read</em> any King Midas retellings. Eheh. It’s honestly not even a story I’ve ever paid much attention to and yet here I am writing a retelling of it. <font size="2">Lolololol someone help me.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I also think my whole magic system and how it’s tied into gold and blood (and the sun is actually also involved) is a little different.</strong> And the way the magic is mixed with technology to make everything work. Plus the fact that there <em>is</em> some technology in an ancient Greek-esque setting.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I don’t even know! I’m just throwing a bunch of random stuff into one story and hoping it works. XD</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eZIS-QCMK6-T8CLVwKFyBXRD-jdMdDtfIY6_7x2Q7RJNUrWXHiEzXzeqWhMtzzwgVlQQ0fLumB9HdD-gesy8jlFMLWc1W56irhCQGdkE1bmRKNyBx_1Fx7e5qgyVbhzcoTFR6P8Mfi-KHY9dRJJJZeTy4xaBE6zUNVDMlkiypl8VrKUpDDizPHAVVjSuhg_lmPzLsSmiDTz8YAOM5GFjFw4uVlTU4tMdTrgMNbJtHxze3y527JRVUj_nXRyfa01xpP_NFXgU-FRnj88NAwAKq_HP2vGfMIYxFMz5nfHm76gUUEVMxPwPlFyeGmy2cu8yWQISaZQBFqlwNjrRg4oENdHuUVjA0DHJXcaEY1NWNjbcwVtXVxjAOphiReuv3GggfLvE17q_fihHFCgwgJZ1vTodpYidKs60Mve59XXOTjeFHQQ1-nO_r9jCTiSj9aM-84UGNEYOK7YzlrRso5m6q1CHZErj04DwtHfMlIFc32PMLUaDPeZLouTkeQ9GTyeLvxArP8dnX1Fhv1A1D-9XiJfPrWV8Ik3i4T89kmzgC-XNPem4fMFTRWJHh2VRPNy6WFeGtbinBftCiVOqjXSWNXg4LS826grPgEQhiMUQ-iJQBcHp_YiCRk3tfL9U2EusHoYRn0IYZNO6To1EaCrMhfAwZYMvqXLu5Czxck685kwx8ZJvbhoSOIZ7cd2kJnbGjdJQli6DoadrPn1dZg=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="4"><br></font><font size="7">10.) Share a fun “extra” of the story.</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Firstly, here is my Pinterest board, which I love and adore.</strong> All the gold mixed with a touch of other colors is so aesthetically pleasing to meh eyeballs.</p>
<p align="center"><br><a data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-board-width="600" data-pin-scale-height="400" data-pin-scale-width="180" href="https://www.pinterest.com/lauriloth/storyboard-~-kings-bleed-gold/"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Secondly, </strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbtL8soNN5ntTEiuugMkkxLJ5CYuWWcN7" target="_blank"><strong>here's a link to my playlist</strong></a><strong> on YouTube.</strong> Because I’m a weirdo and <em>still </em>haven’t made a Spotify account. I DON’T KNOW WHY. But yeah, I’ve been compiling songs on YouTube and it’s seriously the most emotional playlist I have <em>ever</em> made. It’s basically all epic instrumental pieces and I LOVE IT. It totally makes me pumped to write!<font size="2"> (And also gives you a hint of how feelsy this story is eheheh.)</font> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0UB8uWhokg&index=18&list=PLbtL8soNN5ntTEiuugMkkxLJ5CYuWWcN7&t=0s" target="_blank">This song</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tvp3Qih9n2c&index=10&list=PLbtL8soNN5ntTEiuugMkkxLJ5CYuWWcN7&t=0s" target="_blank">this one</a> are probably my favorites if you just want to listen to a couple and not all 30+ that are on there. XD</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/klucvem0q8el8IIFYKFp2bqrZhdFmXz2pcAwzMthaQsLFpU-W6Nc0I3aaPP-F0QOQYkDjRvo6BLVoVWWq8CZx92lzOn2MBQDGXhrejvC9vmQZZS3_fgoBpE39gRspULaa4js_7EifnZfeOcj0WyTwtygtrjzQXYXvM9AkiPQ7RM8PvitII44BTm1ibcwShe00zDUfB8qf2aGBhwrLjxJ3Oa06vlBU6CvPmLHnjbuJL7HU9GXbqlIlxL9zEKA_AV8uYVGrO3HIvd3e-JsvZin-nY-b760mpXOIC_kJmt2db3iLckSJhT9NZ2GNOaSamwAl6dn44sq0dtbDHd92q_qJjawIiZs1E2Bi_NeuHLPUKMCItvjrULmEDkUP2bZ9gk8oGc9yw0zoFCTLLeAMigVCiKUtwGMTEupxRSdkqaUARp8V89u9GWM--ZSDy48uiLXAK7bP8Lm18osdjz3jKzldOPJ5-8L_FbZFOywkpsRwN5kspFgINTTDpJcGS40MSy0ydn2ZblcwiNhrGeZchyBObxPAKKq3nKQXHc2SHP3FFbG54Ni3afE4AIdQpHUb3MqcMHjcJWaQWsFvKVbQxNQ-53UVig2b9eqgRR9X2r3_rNpp9owOuX4O1corSwYbvWIbJ9v7t3X8Ls6SxkG9y6DFsL7WXB78IRgzF7JV0XWg9lRVdqNJfhhuT4XZY4IZE0fMtkdB8PIbYg05OV_Cg=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>And there we have it! <strong>Waaay more information than you ever needed about <em>Kings Bleed Gold.</em></strong> Sheesh, I wonder why I keep having to write series and not standalones??? <font size="2">#foreverlongwinded</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Needless to say <font size="2">(except I’ve already said it like 29 times in this post)</font>, I AM EXCITED FOR THIS STORY!!! I don’t think it’s going to be the easiest to write between the heavy themes, complex storyline, and crazy world, but I’m totally up for the challenge!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And don’t forget there’s still a couple of days to join in this linkup! All the details </strong><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/know-novel-part-1-introductory-new.html" target="_blank"><strong>HERE</strong></a><strong>!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Next time you guys hear from me we’ll be a few days into NaNo! O____O</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mnH_d1b5l7x7_LIqKdo0yGmxMCKW3tx2uwJhj8XRvTkg_20EksxhPadYcXNyI_Xe4wt8ZpHSaBrKGCddaJmO3egcFBYjube1bT2MmGa4OmYQCuYTjgNKGDjWv9r4UStuiToHzsXFjmkxtOapSARLKfIcq-KPwIqONcChTrMdQbTTl625eChOq8aS4kfRobbPrmGTXCFJyUtexCywXwDnp2Biw29pOm2s1du1EYfUGDGOD5OOpcvNAijY-SRItBIkHTVIWmois3miVjxS7YeeDjjlhNCjBw8u4sA0AQseqIXIt1AWtH_X7o0ibPsCWmLf5Us98gOy9iQ_8FEG4TZP34K95bgAk7mHsCg0VfL9GZCze4sGH29N-pAFmscZN-nJoby-XQXfRK9T6QNE_zLHPASuoI6P_aB-LmzLNt4uUK8298Qgzp1tVpqyVHfwNwovH4xzAfoHDagKSec-Ixc0nu6HxeHmJCE1J2J6mYqFPdVUmjujT-KJjgBry3_b2xxNv2j3DfDXq_mSWJrocJqgf2D_x-_lyXDamQKTmn25iUEIpioeIT73n94oudmXK_EBl4KfxDwOFsBEBpJrFthCXMNah5P-_IrAsFHZNlR7ltAroQIMN9IPtftMYZpvauLdeyB9t68Ehb_fMCJY9WGBpmSg1FL0pHS_briillgI30ItbUz3qWwfPKHwOaZNmKiUeKgkDZxIOCdmtY1Ghg=w500-h197-no" width="450" height="183"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/CNHwochHYoF5_O7h0nWjluLm0SflgE6APf32ryqohaa6ilTnUBtCWOPzfct79fKBk-TPT_3OG2eGZONOu8BFyuUF5VxAGZ1FBwvfxECCJIOEDwQFsCw-O9_p9D0V9IfQ7_ic1HLCNBe72tLUqYmZyc5jqgxOyEbqzhQSAdQ2rdkU2cJl8u2hn8J-lBOf1TOjY4tsgp5etwqFTbClH4QNRO_GYe6RrsptMPQcMIgdju9hM5Oekx8pvW5ZCfQ7V9j3ArOZU20BS68sjTsWzI-di-1VH1-6sBRKtbrYQr5HlMkmlRVk7cNyo8J4VMZD28B0sSEiFjmtuOqizdT9HtHvY8hMOJIrSyQo7FIqueERcyH8WtYgc5DwP1MjwywYPBZzxRBD1flabz5jWH0hkKIThYl8J14_MsGCDddLVQW8qbJu6NxEM7u733xKAkyjVYaRTgdSltsedBPdAp_Io6p9DOOhnDm6vFd4mTOSpPm5UI3sfDiISLz0G5v1pxjU5eC7sFKAVGX6HIS-pcJ2U2jswyaqWddz5rJd6UstjfONwqQmT2KqseTrzv4vvvyAXWnwIUoAN5mad_c6arUgP7pH2R801Bc02cVCvdxcSFVZaYBnmCR3w26AlCAvFAC51s_wQKX48a1gOZFp_s3P81cRglqzz50rAHULhwsMFHtt_YM5pyHU7BV4gEDSWnNOqEIayd11Fq_6lz1B3PxWcQ=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="5">What’da think of my dragonish King Midas story? Can you believe NaNo starts in THREE DAYS???? <font size="3">*hides under shock blanket*</font> WHO’S PUMPED?! </font><font size="4">(My NaNo profile is </font><a href="https://nanowrimo.org/participants/christine-smith-lauri" target="_blank">HERE</a></font><font size="4"> if you want to be buddies! *hint, hint*) </font><font size="5">HAPPY NANOING, GUYS!!! *throws motivational cookies at everyone*</font></p>
<p align="center"><font size="4"></font> </p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><font size="3"><strong>P.S.</strong> For all of those who asked to join my NaNo Google Hangouts, it’s up and running! I <em>think</em> I’ve added everyone who asked to join, but if I missed you, do send me an email and let me know! (Also, I discovered you DO NOT have to have a gmail account to join so yay!) And if I’ve added you but you haven’t seen it yet, go to </font><a href="https://hangouts.google.com/" target="_blank"><font size="3">https://hangouts.google.com/</font></a><font size="3"> and there should be a chat box titled “The Pen Dragons” there, which is what we’ve decided to call ourselves for now. *grins*</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="3">If you have no clue what I’m talking about (but are interested in joining a Hangouts chat full of enthused writers), you can check out </font><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/5-reasons-why-im-still-doing-nanowrimo.html" target="_blank"><font size="3">last week's post</font></a><font size="3">. Scroll to near the bottom where it says “A Special Invitation” and you’ll find all the info!</font><script async defer src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js"></script></p>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com55tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-73929772459318224512018-10-22T10:15:00.001-05:002018-10-25T14:15:30.198-05:005 Reasons Why I’m Still Doing NaNoWriMo<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/O1d_jhBe5-RpZw-EZCBDdpKTwMN0G0i9xKgG-V5rFnM2M1STY8iEV5JeeepJBjrFHbsg9TTWN8nnVKeuNfSf-YcJDJNj6nXVjduCk1OW6yyfPpx_zYLi_2kV1ffDN8lDAK2Qh0IKFykoQOyhiiVNWBO0zTDdO6CfFW7zvyXJVIW68nHW_eP8NghwOnKRRyqYyaSonNlp0eK7BeYfR48TQYdwmYbvHk3caNiSiziXuzjbYH9tbRdwHPFhXd2Nlgc5ZrF3CLlOgOg_Q2UUPgpinw0i8fYEkG5AhIx-9wPmQKURlv-kQQCkTwLWRXjfJZDUuFkIHFzoKzP7NaFPF6NiZJ7dpjcn9O90Vx4ycd7c5GKZNnuVRjeLEWBPmWAqSM3Q5njSm6WaHNPTy9XgVmMpHtQdxpiqmTFtGnoebKcPqEkZrQU0iHoZAMwTMuc-PnRd_Y3rSrm2SC4sEM5-cnMcSipl_DsKd6gD6NU4Mj5q74xMghdWVOo7MMzyzSrXiW94WO0v-BGB7aYLqICgjshTzum5eAylFlU0qNOotRAaaBKkZTU_fuUyUj96YQZk3vNAPvnPcpopAA1xxyfKLBIJB5cPsFg82P6qYOLvcSIC8dlTewAAbwRlkAYyfMinzcF1yBjkVABPGCbqakmMRdSp-iuauAb4MhF7A4duBDjT3YFucvXWWo5kDv3O=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>So…NaNoWriMo will be upon us in a little over a week. </strong><font size="2">*wailing and gnashing of teeth*</font><strong> And I’m feeling a bit of shock/denial/what-the-even-WUT because this will be my NINTH year participating. NINE YEARS??? Do I value my sanity at all? </strong><font size="3">(Not really no…)</font><strong> Why on <em>earth</em> have a brought this torture upon myself for 8 years and am about to do it <em>again???</em> WELL. That’s what I want to talk about today!</strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Because that’s the thing. NaNo is such a stressful time. I mean, who chooses to write 50k or more words in 30 days during one of the busiest months of the year? WHY??? What is this ridiculousness? And for me, it’s really bad, because I, erm, have a rather obsessive personality. I don’t stop at 50k, I write until the book is DONE. Even when the book ends up being 150k words <font size="2">(lololol I whish that was an over dramatization).</font> Quite a few NaNos ended with me continuing to write through the first week or two of December to get the book done. Because I get <em>obsessed</em> with writing it all to completion. <font size="3">(<strong>NOTE:</strong> I do <em>not</em> recommend being like me. I need to tone it down like 30 notches…)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Between NaNo Prep in October <font size="3">(my outlines take <em>ages</em> and often end up being around 20k words o.o)</font> and then NaNo in November, it really consumes all of fall, one of my most favorite times of the year! Not to mention ends in soooo many late nights and a ridiculous amount of being overwhelmed as all my other responsibilities fall to the wayside and pile up into a ginormous monster that may or may not eat me come December.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So I ask again, WHY? Why do I do this year after year? Why would <em>anyone? </em>Is it really worth it?</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>My answer: <font size="5">YES!!!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I have never regretted a single one of those 8 NaNos I’ve participated in. Each one was worth it to me for so many reasons. <strong>And that’s what I want to share today: The reasons <em>why</em> I keep doing this insane thing. And why you should too!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>And stick around, because at the end I have a special invitation for all you NaNo participants!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/baI9WQUJ7XwQgfrPRlUhqv9ECcCi8UD9eqU3LKEbAqyDASH8iM98xZyKlbXCGVmuZF57VX_JJmCNGY6l96QlKvDshc0W_klwOs3sG1KEZ-6EEK9_Vi3467ywbn3JVi2o697sXi6HtqH2hoRhP2KaSmAiHpQpxRk8cDedZLYKQU9dIDqrII67dPtGjm-0EjZNNbHB7_S_O7-xgjwtKYpWoWo4jtbTdd62r8jdQhLd_3DRgBe50YzPuGy4u3d530lC1KuQeTQTwanB9Tk0JjQFCF9FQsTwXA4Hy3etJ1h2AIEpuP0jeoHG9Snnrfl8pJvYCgv41S-1J5Fx4Tzx0exa9caohLrateFV-tabDfoZGxlgqAThrY2w2X4oVU4pPCqf-kHbRARoYGEoqNzsY8KJGDecdj-SSkmMqXZzRXb3BqeMCgp0fyYPG5IN4i5R69wneeUbP8q3XE5w8sANYtjqU547Knw-hxaJe91iOx454bAYn3XwKE3yt-N9UX4H4a6gJn6tWjMq9OPV1_9dzOqtvmVx8kUFg8AtUHBN5qF98H0Wf9SIlZHJ5v-5jZcIUlw9BV5ZgSQSCTNmvHABoZNqgcBN9YOCi4vFKim-3nkxgypivE0P3W4mWwTXaxWXXuCYuD5xvtcYRgKpnaM2TxvhlOLQK09N5RY2BFi7Qp3LYB7V_pIYMrPX2L6Y=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">5 REASONS WHY<br>I STILL DO NANO</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/baI9WQUJ7XwQgfrPRlUhqv9ECcCi8UD9eqU3LKEbAqyDASH8iM98xZyKlbXCGVmuZF57VX_JJmCNGY6l96QlKvDshc0W_klwOs3sG1KEZ-6EEK9_Vi3467ywbn3JVi2o697sXi6HtqH2hoRhP2KaSmAiHpQpxRk8cDedZLYKQU9dIDqrII67dPtGjm-0EjZNNbHB7_S_O7-xgjwtKYpWoWo4jtbTdd62r8jdQhLd_3DRgBe50YzPuGy4u3d530lC1KuQeTQTwanB9Tk0JjQFCF9FQsTwXA4Hy3etJ1h2AIEpuP0jeoHG9Snnrfl8pJvYCgv41S-1J5Fx4Tzx0exa9caohLrateFV-tabDfoZGxlgqAThrY2w2X4oVU4pPCqf-kHbRARoYGEoqNzsY8KJGDecdj-SSkmMqXZzRXb3BqeMCgp0fyYPG5IN4i5R69wneeUbP8q3XE5w8sANYtjqU547Knw-hxaJe91iOx454bAYn3XwKE3yt-N9UX4H4a6gJn6tWjMq9OPV1_9dzOqtvmVx8kUFg8AtUHBN5qF98H0Wf9SIlZHJ5v-5jZcIUlw9BV5ZgSQSCTNmvHABoZNqgcBN9YOCi4vFKim-3nkxgypivE0P3W4mWwTXaxWXXuCYuD5xvtcYRgKpnaM2TxvhlOLQK09N5RY2BFi7Qp3LYB7V_pIYMrPX2L6Y=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xW--rb1RarhqonyQUVqdK-uiYKLD2j8GUTg9Et1oy4nOk5NXf0jubN8W1dVywESzRGRs7586k0OAc5GRpN1-3FCluXcrPfjIvNZEilP_GJ6tJraFx3j-VD53xvsaq_JD7Xi2ozPY9bHkpLDyzkik1Y7o_csEJowGkiV4GRWNYD0PyCFS_Wu9OvssmbyUb812c-iTpJwYx2NL7bvikATocGEmUk2DdsXd9-E2__nR_sCes4z6AYXQ5JhfEbr5OZVjrnRk23MZ-I994vVflPJ_NyE1zbV3pZLqM4urdXgeuLEKOQx_oN7Yw8Wdguoj7Ul7MLPDQgvCtUr1uFgmu6XABSiV6YtlgR0Kkw_gh0b3aBgLCYHSQ4h9j813dHvDaco2A4Ds920KKiguN1xIA-NJgSWm9t2m7uXBAsjzqE21QvlPt_XcuQXj2SDSpKBKsazScSNRooVq46h5av03pabLKOHfjkE9W3XYzi6UfselRLaNiplPcZmKgzRvWCimZqb7fApLcitRzxlBTe9z0Muu7p1Ed711IKWBut1IyyX-o1fB7loN61I0niI_EzSDY2Q2g5Jf835i8f475cFkFX-_Wc7XQqaPhY-s4OXcIYzaj68fdC3jfaYXqRXpco_qjdCXcOjNHe8ZoyP1CabvImfo7E-sovPamhw9s0yYY4gZ1Ozx8m3WR-T-i54Z=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">IT CHALLENGES ME TO TRY NEW THINGS AND HELPS ME GROW AS A WRITER</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>For my very first NaNoWriMo, I tried something I had never, ever done before: I plotted my novel. Before then, I was a hardcore pantser. And never physically plotted any bit of a story a day in my life. I thought pantsing would forever be The Way for me.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But then I decided to attempt NaNo, and as I was trying to think of ways to make the process quicker and easier I thought, “What if I outlined the book?” Because, as fun as pantsing was, it was slooow going as I’d constantly have to pause, often days, even weeks, at a time to mull over what happened next. But if I <em>knew</em> everything that happened, then I could just write nonstop. So I did. And now? I’m a hardcore planner. My young self would have never thought, yet here we are. <strong>Because NaNo pushed me to try something new.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>From them on out, each NaNo novel <font size="3">(really each <em>novel, </em>a NaNo one or not)</font>, has been plotted a little differently. A lot of things I still do that I adapted that very first NaNo, a lot of it I’ve taken my methods and adjusted them to suit my needs. But there’s always something a little different, a little new, with each novel, and as the years have passed, I’ve refined my methods more and more.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>NaNo challenged me to look at creating a novel differently. It made this girl who is really set in her ways and not wild about trying new things to, well, <em>try</em> new things. To step out of my comfort zone and find the best possible way to produce a novel.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>But going from pantser to planner is just one example. There are <em>so</em> many other ways NaNo challenges me to keep pushing the barrier with my writing. To be wild and free with it, and not stuck in the same ol’, same ol’ I tend to fall into when writing. It taught me that I can write in short bursts in between life, instead of setting out a very specific set of time to write like I used to do. It gave me permission to try crazy things with my stories, because, hey, why not? I’m only writing the thing for a month. Why can’t I experiment a little? It helped me see what my strengths and weaknesses are, and what types of scenes and plots in general I enjoy and dislike. <strong>And because of this, it’s helped me GROW as a writer.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Because NaNo gives me permission to experiment and make a mess with my stories, I’ve very much found the best methods that work for me, what types of stories I like to tell, and the best way to tell them. Such as some of my NaNo stories had way too slow pacing, a couple sped by far too quickly. And I learned all this because I wasn’t bogged down by perfecting my story, or taking my time writing it. <strong>NaNo gives me permission to <em>focus</em> solely on the story and truly, deeply refine my craft.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Which happens to be to my next point…</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xW--rb1RarhqonyQUVqdK-uiYKLD2j8GUTg9Et1oy4nOk5NXf0jubN8W1dVywESzRGRs7586k0OAc5GRpN1-3FCluXcrPfjIvNZEilP_GJ6tJraFx3j-VD53xvsaq_JD7Xi2ozPY9bHkpLDyzkik1Y7o_csEJowGkiV4GRWNYD0PyCFS_Wu9OvssmbyUb812c-iTpJwYx2NL7bvikATocGEmUk2DdsXd9-E2__nR_sCes4z6AYXQ5JhfEbr5OZVjrnRk23MZ-I994vVflPJ_NyE1zbV3pZLqM4urdXgeuLEKOQx_oN7Yw8Wdguoj7Ul7MLPDQgvCtUr1uFgmu6XABSiV6YtlgR0Kkw_gh0b3aBgLCYHSQ4h9j813dHvDaco2A4Ds920KKiguN1xIA-NJgSWm9t2m7uXBAsjzqE21QvlPt_XcuQXj2SDSpKBKsazScSNRooVq46h5av03pabLKOHfjkE9W3XYzi6UfselRLaNiplPcZmKgzRvWCimZqb7fApLcitRzxlBTe9z0Muu7p1Ed711IKWBut1IyyX-o1fB7loN61I0niI_EzSDY2Q2g5Jf835i8f475cFkFX-_Wc7XQqaPhY-s4OXcIYzaj68fdC3jfaYXqRXpco_qjdCXcOjNHe8ZoyP1CabvImfo7E-sovPamhw9s0yYY4gZ1Ozx8m3WR-T-i54Z=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">IT FORCES ME TO FOCUS ON <em>STORY</em> FOR A WHILE</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I of course do a lot of writing during non-NaNo months. But during those crazy November days, there’s something different about the writing process.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>During all the other times of the year, I get distracted.</strong> Oh goodness, the distractions! I always refer to myself as a “productive procrastinator”, because I do productive tasks while procrastinating to make myself feel better about procrastinating. And, unfortunately, usually what I’m procrastinating is <em>writing</em>. Instead of taking time out each day to write or edit, I think, “Oh, well I need to go write a blog post.” or “I better spend some time this afternoon taking pictures for my Instagram account.” or “Wow, I’m behind on my friends’ social media, I should catch up!” See? Productive procrastinator. This is my life. *shakes head* Unfortunately, it puts working on my actual BOOK at the bottom of the priority list, when, really, it should be the top. But NaNo changes all of that.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>There’s fewer things in this world that kicks me into gear more than goals needing to be met within a time limit. Something about that ever moving clock pulls out my ultra focused, obsessive side like no other. So you can only imagine how on hyper drive it is during NaNo. <strong>Suddenly all those things I worry about for 11 months of the year? They’re insignificant. During November, it’s <em>all</em> about STORY. And I love it.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Yes, we shouldn’t be that hyper-focused 24/7 for <em>all</em> of the year. There are other priorities in life and to-do lists that need to be checked off. But as writers, it’s also so important that we sometimes allow our novels to consume our thoughts. To give ourselves permission to fall so deeply into our stories that it’s more real to us than reality.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>NaNo always does that for me. <strong>For those 30 days I’m <em>living</em> my story. It suddenly feels so real and so important, and it’s such a thrilling feeling.</strong> It’s like a 30 day retreat with my characters <font size="2">(a 30 day retreat of torture and pain and feels but ya know)</font>. And it’s so nice to not be worrying so much about all those many other things on my to-do list, and have my novel be at the top of the priority list for a time.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>(<em>Sidenote:</em> I’m talking about physical tasks that need to be accomplished. God, our loved ones, and our health should be permanently at the top of our life priority list, and I do actually fall short on those things during NaNo so much. So of course there is a balance, as with everything.)</p>
<p align="justify"><br>It’s a funny thing. Because during NaNo, I often get so flustered and tired and stressed and want to do <em>anything</em> in the world but write. But then afterwards, when it’s all said and done, I never really remember those moments. <strong>Whenever I think back to any NaNo, I smile, because what I remember is the magical feeling of being utterly immersed in my story. That’s always the lasting impact of NaNo for me. And it is for that feeling alone that I find NaNo is always worth doing.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xW--rb1RarhqonyQUVqdK-uiYKLD2j8GUTg9Et1oy4nOk5NXf0jubN8W1dVywESzRGRs7586k0OAc5GRpN1-3FCluXcrPfjIvNZEilP_GJ6tJraFx3j-VD53xvsaq_JD7Xi2ozPY9bHkpLDyzkik1Y7o_csEJowGkiV4GRWNYD0PyCFS_Wu9OvssmbyUb812c-iTpJwYx2NL7bvikATocGEmUk2DdsXd9-E2__nR_sCes4z6AYXQ5JhfEbr5OZVjrnRk23MZ-I994vVflPJ_NyE1zbV3pZLqM4urdXgeuLEKOQx_oN7Yw8Wdguoj7Ul7MLPDQgvCtUr1uFgmu6XABSiV6YtlgR0Kkw_gh0b3aBgLCYHSQ4h9j813dHvDaco2A4Ds920KKiguN1xIA-NJgSWm9t2m7uXBAsjzqE21QvlPt_XcuQXj2SDSpKBKsazScSNRooVq46h5av03pabLKOHfjkE9W3XYzi6UfselRLaNiplPcZmKgzRvWCimZqb7fApLcitRzxlBTe9z0Muu7p1Ed711IKWBut1IyyX-o1fB7loN61I0niI_EzSDY2Q2g5Jf835i8f475cFkFX-_Wc7XQqaPhY-s4OXcIYzaj68fdC3jfaYXqRXpco_qjdCXcOjNHe8ZoyP1CabvImfo7E-sovPamhw9s0yYY4gZ1Ozx8m3WR-T-i54Z=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><strong><br></strong><font size="7">IT PUSHES ME TO GO BEYOND WHAT I NORMALLY WOULD</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>A <em>huge</em> thing that NaNo helps with is pushing us to go beyond what we think we can do.</strong> So, so many times during non-NaNo I’ll consider writing, but then decide I’m too tired or that I need to do something else. Or write a just a few words and then call that “good enough” and go do something lazy. But with NaNo, I don’t really have that option. Again, there’s that goal that needs to be met and a time limit ever pushing me forward. So instead of turning on the TV, I take up the laptop and write. Instead of claiming I’m too tired to write, I just write anyway. Instead of considering 1k words enough for the day, I write 1 or 2 more thousand. Instead of scrolling on Pinterest while waiting at the dentist office, I pop out a few words on my phone.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>But more than that, it reminds me that I <em>can</em> finish a story, and within a short amount of time. Before I did NaNo, I would take over a <em>year</em> to write a book. And some I never even finished. But then I did NaNo, and I realized, as long as I put my mind to it, my novel can get DONE.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>If I remember right, it was Lisa Mangum at Realm Makers who said that <strong>we can always stretch a little farther than we think we can. And NaNo taught me that more than anything.</strong> Every single year it helps me get these novels <em>done</em>, and reminds me that I just have to put my mind to it, not get distracted, and <em>do it.</em></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xW--rb1RarhqonyQUVqdK-uiYKLD2j8GUTg9Et1oy4nOk5NXf0jubN8W1dVywESzRGRs7586k0OAc5GRpN1-3FCluXcrPfjIvNZEilP_GJ6tJraFx3j-VD53xvsaq_JD7Xi2ozPY9bHkpLDyzkik1Y7o_csEJowGkiV4GRWNYD0PyCFS_Wu9OvssmbyUb812c-iTpJwYx2NL7bvikATocGEmUk2DdsXd9-E2__nR_sCes4z6AYXQ5JhfEbr5OZVjrnRk23MZ-I994vVflPJ_NyE1zbV3pZLqM4urdXgeuLEKOQx_oN7Yw8Wdguoj7Ul7MLPDQgvCtUr1uFgmu6XABSiV6YtlgR0Kkw_gh0b3aBgLCYHSQ4h9j813dHvDaco2A4Ds920KKiguN1xIA-NJgSWm9t2m7uXBAsjzqE21QvlPt_XcuQXj2SDSpKBKsazScSNRooVq46h5av03pabLKOHfjkE9W3XYzi6UfselRLaNiplPcZmKgzRvWCimZqb7fApLcitRzxlBTe9z0Muu7p1Ed711IKWBut1IyyX-o1fB7loN61I0niI_EzSDY2Q2g5Jf835i8f475cFkFX-_Wc7XQqaPhY-s4OXcIYzaj68fdC3jfaYXqRXpco_qjdCXcOjNHe8ZoyP1CabvImfo7E-sovPamhw9s0yYY4gZ1Ozx8m3WR-T-i54Z=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><em><br></em><font size="7">IT REMINDS ME THAT WRITING IS <em>FUN</em> AND WORTH MY TIME</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I think all writers have those occasional existential crises where we wonder why on this green earth are we writers? Writing is <em>hard. </em>Shouldn’t we be doing something else with our time?</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I definitely have those moments, more frequently than I’d like. There are even some scandalous moments where I’ve considered <em>not</em> doing NaNo for a year. I KNOW. It’s true! <strong>But I always force myself to do it. Why? Because, every single time, it shoves away those writer doubts.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Like I said earlier, whenever I think back on past NaNos, all I can ever seem to dwell on is how utterly <em>fun</em> I had writing my novel. Not on those nights I stayed up until 2 in the morning feverishly trying to get a blog post ready for the next day because I had used up my day writing. Not on the moments where I’d assume move to Antarctica rather than have to write a single more word. Not when I wanted to sit and cry at how behind I was getting on other things because writing was taking up all my time. Those moments happen every November, but I so rarely remember them. <strong>Instead, what is always at the forefront of my mind is how <em>fun</em> it was writing my novel.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Because writing <em>is</em> fun. We’re literally creating entire worlds and characters and have the liberty to make anything at all happen that we want to. It is <em>magic.</em> And being so consumed in our magical stories is something utterly special.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So I do NaNo every single year, even during those times when I’d really rather just skip it and take it easy during these amazing fall days, because I <em>need</em> to do it. Sometimes I forget just how amazing storytelling can be. I need that reminder that creating stories is FUN. And that it’s something <em>worth</em> doing.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I have learned so much about writing and the world and life in general through writing. The amount of lessons I’ve gleaned through those stories I’ve written during NaNo are innumerable. <strong>Stories have power. They’re truly one of the most powerful weapons we have on this earth. And I firmly believe writing them is <em>always</em> worth your time.</strong> <strong>Even when it’s tiring and hard and doesn’t seem it.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/xW--rb1RarhqonyQUVqdK-uiYKLD2j8GUTg9Et1oy4nOk5NXf0jubN8W1dVywESzRGRs7586k0OAc5GRpN1-3FCluXcrPfjIvNZEilP_GJ6tJraFx3j-VD53xvsaq_JD7Xi2ozPY9bHkpLDyzkik1Y7o_csEJowGkiV4GRWNYD0PyCFS_Wu9OvssmbyUb812c-iTpJwYx2NL7bvikATocGEmUk2DdsXd9-E2__nR_sCes4z6AYXQ5JhfEbr5OZVjrnRk23MZ-I994vVflPJ_NyE1zbV3pZLqM4urdXgeuLEKOQx_oN7Yw8Wdguoj7Ul7MLPDQgvCtUr1uFgmu6XABSiV6YtlgR0Kkw_gh0b3aBgLCYHSQ4h9j813dHvDaco2A4Ds920KKiguN1xIA-NJgSWm9t2m7uXBAsjzqE21QvlPt_XcuQXj2SDSpKBKsazScSNRooVq46h5av03pabLKOHfjkE9W3XYzi6UfselRLaNiplPcZmKgzRvWCimZqb7fApLcitRzxlBTe9z0Muu7p1Ed711IKWBut1IyyX-o1fB7loN61I0niI_EzSDY2Q2g5Jf835i8f475cFkFX-_Wc7XQqaPhY-s4OXcIYzaj68fdC3jfaYXqRXpco_qjdCXcOjNHe8ZoyP1CabvImfo7E-sovPamhw9s0yYY4gZ1Ozx8m3WR-T-i54Z=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><strong><br></strong><font size="7">IT PROVIDES COMMUNITY</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Lastly, one of my top, top, <em>top</em> favorite things about NaNoWriMo is the community it provides.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Back in the dark ages before I did NaNo, I had zero writing friends. I was the only writer I knew, and it was lonely. Because, well, we writers are weird. And sometimes you just can’t understand a writer unless you are one. Every writer needs some fellow writers friends so we can feel understood. And what better way to find writing friends than NaNoWriMo, where literally <em>thousands</em> are participating all over the world!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>During my very first NaNo, I poked around the NaNo forums and stumbled into a group that called themselves the Purple Elephants, full of fellow writing teenagers<font size="2"> (ya know, back when I <em>was</em> a teenager, good times, good times).</font> And, oh my goodness, the fun we had! The amount of random nonsense we’d talk about and stories we shared and inside jokes we made. It was hilarious. A lot of us got older and I think most of the core group faded away, sadly. <font size="3">(Though I think it may still live on a bit. I haven’t checked the NaNo forums this year to see.)</font> But it was within that group that I learned what it felt like to have fellow writer friends. <em>And</em> it was in that group where I made one of my closest writing buddies who, to this day, I consider one of my bestest friends in the world. Through her, I met other writing friends, then I started blogging and met more. And it grew and grew, and here I now have a whole community of fellow writers all of whom I love and adore. (Seriously, you guys make my world. <3) And it even went farther than that. Through blogging I learned about Realm Maker, where I <em>met</em> some of you, and made more friends. The connections just continuously grow. <strong>But all of that was because of NaNo. I never would have met <em>any</em> of you, and probably wouldn’t even be blogging, if not for NaNo. It was the starting point to this writing life I now lead.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>It is seriously a wonderful place to meet writers. But not only that. <strong>There is something utterly motivating knowing that you’re writing your novel along with <em>thousands</em> of others. Suddenly writing isn’t lonely. It’s one, ginormous, epic group activity! And there are always people to cheer you on every day.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/baI9WQUJ7XwQgfrPRlUhqv9ECcCi8UD9eqU3LKEbAqyDASH8iM98xZyKlbXCGVmuZF57VX_JJmCNGY6l96QlKvDshc0W_klwOs3sG1KEZ-6EEK9_Vi3467ywbn3JVi2o697sXi6HtqH2hoRhP2KaSmAiHpQpxRk8cDedZLYKQU9dIDqrII67dPtGjm-0EjZNNbHB7_S_O7-xgjwtKYpWoWo4jtbTdd62r8jdQhLd_3DRgBe50YzPuGy4u3d530lC1KuQeTQTwanB9Tk0JjQFCF9FQsTwXA4Hy3etJ1h2AIEpuP0jeoHG9Snnrfl8pJvYCgv41S-1J5Fx4Tzx0exa9caohLrateFV-tabDfoZGxlgqAThrY2w2X4oVU4pPCqf-kHbRARoYGEoqNzsY8KJGDecdj-SSkmMqXZzRXb3BqeMCgp0fyYPG5IN4i5R69wneeUbP8q3XE5w8sANYtjqU547Knw-hxaJe91iOx454bAYn3XwKE3yt-N9UX4H4a6gJn6tWjMq9OPV1_9dzOqtvmVx8kUFg8AtUHBN5qF98H0Wf9SIlZHJ5v-5jZcIUlw9BV5ZgSQSCTNmvHABoZNqgcBN9YOCi4vFKim-3nkxgypivE0P3W4mWwTXaxWXXuCYuD5xvtcYRgKpnaM2TxvhlOLQK09N5RY2BFi7Qp3LYB7V_pIYMrPX2L6Y=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So that’s why, here 9 years later, I’m still doing NaNoWriMo. It’s not just a fun, crazy challenge to accomplish. It’s so much bigger and important and more magical than that.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Now, of course I 100% understand it’s not for everyone. For some people, NaNo has the opposite effects and makes writing a negative thing. Or maybe life is just way too busy right now to take on something like NaNo. I absolutely get that, and I suspect one day I’ll decide life is just too hectic to participate myself. But if you’ve been considering it, and think you can find the time, I cannot recommend it enough!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/baI9WQUJ7XwQgfrPRlUhqv9ECcCi8UD9eqU3LKEbAqyDASH8iM98xZyKlbXCGVmuZF57VX_JJmCNGY6l96QlKvDshc0W_klwOs3sG1KEZ-6EEK9_Vi3467ywbn3JVi2o697sXi6HtqH2hoRhP2KaSmAiHpQpxRk8cDedZLYKQU9dIDqrII67dPtGjm-0EjZNNbHB7_S_O7-xgjwtKYpWoWo4jtbTdd62r8jdQhLd_3DRgBe50YzPuGy4u3d530lC1KuQeTQTwanB9Tk0JjQFCF9FQsTwXA4Hy3etJ1h2AIEpuP0jeoHG9Snnrfl8pJvYCgv41S-1J5Fx4Tzx0exa9caohLrateFV-tabDfoZGxlgqAThrY2w2X4oVU4pPCqf-kHbRARoYGEoqNzsY8KJGDecdj-SSkmMqXZzRXb3BqeMCgp0fyYPG5IN4i5R69wneeUbP8q3XE5w8sANYtjqU547Knw-hxaJe91iOx454bAYn3XwKE3yt-N9UX4H4a6gJn6tWjMq9OPV1_9dzOqtvmVx8kUFg8AtUHBN5qF98H0Wf9SIlZHJ5v-5jZcIUlw9BV5ZgSQSCTNmvHABoZNqgcBN9YOCi4vFKim-3nkxgypivE0P3W4mWwTXaxWXXuCYuD5xvtcYRgKpnaM2TxvhlOLQK09N5RY2BFi7Qp3LYB7V_pIYMrPX2L6Y=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"><br><font size="7">A SPECIAL INVITATION</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/baI9WQUJ7XwQgfrPRlUhqv9ECcCi8UD9eqU3LKEbAqyDASH8iM98xZyKlbXCGVmuZF57VX_JJmCNGY6l96QlKvDshc0W_klwOs3sG1KEZ-6EEK9_Vi3467ywbn3JVi2o697sXi6HtqH2hoRhP2KaSmAiHpQpxRk8cDedZLYKQU9dIDqrII67dPtGjm-0EjZNNbHB7_S_O7-xgjwtKYpWoWo4jtbTdd62r8jdQhLd_3DRgBe50YzPuGy4u3d530lC1KuQeTQTwanB9Tk0JjQFCF9FQsTwXA4Hy3etJ1h2AIEpuP0jeoHG9Snnrfl8pJvYCgv41S-1J5Fx4Tzx0exa9caohLrateFV-tabDfoZGxlgqAThrY2w2X4oVU4pPCqf-kHbRARoYGEoqNzsY8KJGDecdj-SSkmMqXZzRXb3BqeMCgp0fyYPG5IN4i5R69wneeUbP8q3XE5w8sANYtjqU547Knw-hxaJe91iOx454bAYn3XwKE3yt-N9UX4H4a6gJn6tWjMq9OPV1_9dzOqtvmVx8kUFg8AtUHBN5qF98H0Wf9SIlZHJ5v-5jZcIUlw9BV5ZgSQSCTNmvHABoZNqgcBN9YOCi4vFKim-3nkxgypivE0P3W4mWwTXaxWXXuCYuD5xvtcYRgKpnaM2TxvhlOLQK09N5RY2BFi7Qp3LYB7V_pIYMrPX2L6Y=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I know this post is already long enough to cover like the first week of NaNo words, buuuut I promised you I had something special to share! I left my point of the community and having writing friends for last, because that leads me right to it.</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="5">I’ve decided to create a NaNo Google Hangouts Chat.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Sadly, these days I never find the time or make the effort to poke around the NaNo forums like I did in my earlier NaNo days. I’m just a lot busier. But I really miss the tight-knit group I had with the Purple Elephants. <strong>Then it occurred to me. I already <em>have</em> a group of NaNo participants, right here! We just don’t have a specific place to chat. Which is where Google Hangouts comes in!</strong> It’s such a great place for instant messaging and popping in now and again for quick chats.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>So if you like using Hangouts and are participating in NaNoWriMo (or just a writer! it doesn't have to be exclusively NaNo participants) and want a place to chat with other fellow Wrimos where we can talk about our stories, do word wars/sprints together, share snippets, encourage one another, and just have FUN, then send me your email address at </strong><a href="mailto:Lauriloth@gmail.com"><strong>Lauriloth@gmail.com</strong></a><strong>, and I’ll make this happen!</strong> It’ll basically be like the cabins that Camp NaNoWriMo has. I think it’s going to be a blast and I’M SO EXCITED!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>(<strong>NOTE:</strong> I will make sure this is a very safe environment and will remove anyone who uses crude language or tries to bully or anything like that. But I feel SO blessed with the readers I have on my blog and am like 99.999% sure none of you would ever do that! Just figured I’d better assure you that it will be safe.)</p>
<p align="justify"><br>THIS NANO IS GOING TO BE SO FUN, GUYS!!!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/baI9WQUJ7XwQgfrPRlUhqv9ECcCi8UD9eqU3LKEbAqyDASH8iM98xZyKlbXCGVmuZF57VX_JJmCNGY6l96QlKvDshc0W_klwOs3sG1KEZ-6EEK9_Vi3467ywbn3JVi2o697sXi6HtqH2hoRhP2KaSmAiHpQpxRk8cDedZLYKQU9dIDqrII67dPtGjm-0EjZNNbHB7_S_O7-xgjwtKYpWoWo4jtbTdd62r8jdQhLd_3DRgBe50YzPuGy4u3d530lC1KuQeTQTwanB9Tk0JjQFCF9FQsTwXA4Hy3etJ1h2AIEpuP0jeoHG9Snnrfl8pJvYCgv41S-1J5Fx4Tzx0exa9caohLrateFV-tabDfoZGxlgqAThrY2w2X4oVU4pPCqf-kHbRARoYGEoqNzsY8KJGDecdj-SSkmMqXZzRXb3BqeMCgp0fyYPG5IN4i5R69wneeUbP8q3XE5w8sANYtjqU547Knw-hxaJe91iOx454bAYn3XwKE3yt-N9UX4H4a6gJn6tWjMq9OPV1_9dzOqtvmVx8kUFg8AtUHBN5qF98H0Wf9SIlZHJ5v-5jZcIUlw9BV5ZgSQSCTNmvHABoZNqgcBN9YOCi4vFKim-3nkxgypivE0P3W4mWwTXaxWXXuCYuD5xvtcYRgKpnaM2TxvhlOLQK09N5RY2BFi7Qp3LYB7V_pIYMrPX2L6Y=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5">Other posts you might like:</font><br><br></p><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2016/10/ten-perfectly-logical-reasons-to-do.html" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/9I0qOeWiwSneFNBBvyYhnUYJY_OtSvtMCIaBNnaMXwfCKCy2heYfRFW9aTVXC7v7k26LeOPrZWhHnEmm8rCPA2fjcPpGHifwpy7Sy8S2zau7WvA8WMILtlU2J_fknPkLYZi8s87muWD0vfy3BPCkw5LhFc_3h3DoxejX_pbjuZ8zab8Dp4K8Jb1o3MbJRdJ67tpr_cIFCBWI_VnSts1oQQpB43hOSwxdkBQRX2T46-frqfx_fD8jUiBT95wN9Izt3jrURh29KUJAWnn4JzzhJSnszcLLQ2cPabk8OvqnU97WZGnIf4BcAQSI0hxMrkZbZTAxtWnsdSwQNYqGJGNS1YDNeT5V83aR7flg7YPkYxOgPU_gmdw4lGaPBKu6H3hL6MlJD7rOwqJ5oo05_5ivssGRB_rfNNpnZl4OjLfcxacz2ivp6Rf5EoDBnhlKfDRPrZenIDN3YkyGGcn1kNTYxWuGmfJJE8dPkzqfb3lfpqYR0x9g7gbBxzaNTFazQguSfH73UMB3pSMC66XLUwUmHg_m0wEbf4uaBJUrziH_DekGqVvq72QiALEhRVtZRI_FtSzaGrngfaG5aNlYlnNi-eV-BSB_eJmhCpZiHzbTR3BPJ08H714_pXJB5mTs_Qvj2KJ2B5BMYx_6UVx8m3gUZslenz6MWSFfkAJZBZ66k2ZHTLEs8FASKbXw=w1221-h915-no" width="400" height="301"></a> <br>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2017/10/7-tips-for-choosing-your-next-novel-to.html" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/QrUCrTikPTs8-7vlJBCWYx8NAlxVtxVBSkGNFF2gfiaAZ-eg3N14VTylq6BQHsEFKzbw_tIToue3VHyK4D4hUkI8bj3WAiH4VmGCVHoiBpZva2w0aoyDChUYJExPqokaSQJ0ZU5T73dAbEi-haVQ1XSw1wxJZVZpAr2OW2E2nTKAFbvdTpLfZbkOQ7djD7_M8XcIJ5W7QVxZizAfstys44Rnq6nFAcpXdRwhCUtLYFrehbIaiaHFraoOeGeHIkgAXR2cZzvfbQ4uQNC-LAItAHsFFZBLrSNC4SdgXQ_ss2wOyRkSYxefLwqQmjp4fKoPPxYFeq30ePFz4bbvbTT3cuwmQfTBcCmQ2KjIeSaU25eOS6DlYBACa4ic9OiwMdFlVfjbC490qklldEw4oPqEpfLzFTgPZAREDtqHkmwp66Dv1KB-q2Y16aqP3fkKSLQMHK3dnRuUTosw81GdAxLmegZACSfe8dpbHMnv1Cxc4YnS98av0eMgy-YXLxMCpFIqiLyxqi-y1SU2SpBh6jCcm3oLr0B16u7eGs4M2MbVI45gFPo8mDm9uEFM1QiuU2Kw8CxSrCuLynkPA7LFfj0kzoppK_xHJb3SMeHf0Hwp87gsL9RzYTFqbEwIa6JjjohvtrCTQBstuiXnQm2gP1GQaNYZvsb0gbE_UdDeMTRsNiqMmF9i0Yr02PMm=w1221-h915-no" width="400" height="301"></a></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2017/10/how-to-have-successful-nanowrimo-bonus.html" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/sfNSIk5edJMLVmkAi3AJgV2vDxq7Zyvq20rK39ZaLZgtmnJ9q7ZkTRvlRMYNQZSjLOOesZMeDsj58QVuedcgPHVIC88GgUdWh-Plkc4_SOci8UW5Fa1RUCcbFGXud4JU_bIFBwEQh-VjDP0BRrdfbevb9t7hszvQNwyV2N0uCkiS2xZhwkMTXkxYujfoFMJv8Fmcb8-ZKfeSc5K3NwbOpsv0H4kkKgPWJtuKUNe8FaGTIS6LdGInJiq6bFSU8ahFqxMTrHkUs5wvgBwvpupiIdNYp4bcer2yPth8qnW2z4a-CjP5zNq5ptMi4l8xW_ZwH1ae7WT_d8MZXCbm-ZnPhhHqRP2_Xz_We3IZ5RjHlMQ6h8AStnWXtS358_Db4BaZ9V9vM2EhA3CHFi2GjM2ToJ_Cpe7L9Tg-8UBUFgz0ca-M5KZhdnId8gzRmzxRogtrIzZR3ixEASO582dUV_5GXzLYHkOitGKbLr076XWqlqOUyGhFIblKx-zQ0FmD_PncW_Dt85RPytAVfe1N9qrwXM90Q9ahcMblE8vsGcynFVCBR_YAZnpBUFApe24Q49egN2Gj47zpv8c0f1bzGxzMwuQYj0Q4TvjFYBan6cIZlV2eAUGD9YK4iaXICRENK1Xan3SERbx1ZF3Ue9A7a3o9Uco__yJWDtzWh78TRpdM0N260t9JYNduBeHM=w1221-h915-no" width="400" height="301"></a><br><br>And stay tuned, because next Monday I’m actually, <em>finally</em> going to be sharing more details of my NaNo novel <em>Kings Bleed Gold</em>!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/dNZU7ty_vbcb-Bz5R7MioRsNNSk1edVs5ymL3ggY0swP35NM0nVjlX3nZNFri3usfvRQazNiJTbE9XPwknMEVbyi8iF_PkhRSi3TIs7TYNs-DPk1rCTlVDaRFiKJKqMLAIdKEUvKBvbHTZaEnMAn2LCH36nMJA96vTYF0YFD3XYc3FV9XpIkFKLpg5YtN3FIalu5S3iKsmy-n_mW7U4P-MFLm5Iakcp40z80ppOdwUCmhZ6uF55S3S6ofv8uVYWH-MRg-y8KJ4cN_jxfXBLNZbOyk4JYA-wz4rMNNmUdgecJ8UZ8mqWMJXDaEAEJZxfcOxBekIPCOHFm6a62W8MhCOp-q5103NY2givlttph-py7irK5I37I_V9C7N1hKU6E0SvWYtY3ZUXo0gt9Uxhz0F2d6mhe7f5i8D8Nu8ab64V5ISdFomgReFuahfAOA6rPsB5kFi6IS5Z_kx97CqRxAVwfy6wY3g8c_cRHSCu8Ly9ySNw-84iAMFOzC24LW2hViLZEVMYojz2FhyWpoGbKZ3HLNE5M1foqctkRSB4S_8jrKdJtPUDjdlyGhfjuHKTM1MIDRIvAt7DqYPfobXG-2llXtmAOu1gOznCVAAW2ZDtPJkAl-8tWWm-DAEbjuqbJ4LCFCFJqUUkzgcq78S6lIuSaEC2RxX0i-i2UR_r_ywUWte1fUBAx0Qf1=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="5">The obvious question is, WHO’S DOING NANO???</font><font size="4"> (Pst. My NaNo account is </font><a href="https://nanowrimo.org/participants/christine-smith-lauri" target="_blank">HERE</a></font><font size="5"><font size="4">. I’d love to buddy you all over there!)</font> Don’t forget to email me if you want to join my Hangouts!</font><font size="3"> </font><font size="4">(Also, I apologize to all my non-NaNo participant readers. I know I probably drive you guys craaazy this time of year. Thank you so much for sticking by me and my NaNo obsessed self and always being an encouragement. I love you ALL!)</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-32041732426233772802018-10-15T09:50:00.000-05:002018-10-15T09:54:28.008-05:00The Language of Worlds - Korinna<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/peznTRSxsQ61TmRD6gU6jSwgTVQ8P34G8JiQlGpArzy4Sw6cVIUJmYVwLpyX0et-HhwV6GEbWkUyONkgX7i_qdNS9OsDkqNkutMACTjJh9T4sjvz_rCmgW_asxzkXRUziCH4PPDWT_o5vL814E3YXIHExloTRjiZQa6OK3guZFBiIMPKYSkqtS4mYneusdO0PGCFh5OOjYVR4EwXR5ok8TZc0vLw-HZ_6F2WEs3CEjpF3uMqmjM-QIYNXk0vUwrfARuLA0bdZrpfcQchr4h-9oEqNupmNn14GDEub1bQzBbojL3qvVlRjyEdLulOPC3Qv4CW4pskXVp-xq-IPkaSoHeMh1QFW-ILbnd51yl1c0tB3lLz0z36wVD5WNXAcSAosapTVsfVayL4JldnjUBXyYS0j23Wj7Q8JLViRpHv5p4U9GMlLEFprnyyad8iheAKUKp_eGPgnjZto8Sr15DS1xp38PR-kwmqIMF4gNuO3g5X7w0swmAcFFkDOA22ZAXhtqIPXp0ZJf3aKPi9uC2XV4GsTQblt7z38Wc7aMdezJK3SecXn7fSTtG_TrUDZbCG8xCmYeO88o3o0ZLf3fDcxkbFIzU7TyfFnlV0ccmyDPKEbZneWlegXuiuxGbQwUJ2PrcCz5OsucipzLcFTHrYc8VWrrh4R75oooQFrUQnSUHAwqgDkeEVWNn1=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>Hello, my elflings! I am all the excited, because today not only am I gonna tell you what I’ll be writing for NaNoWriMo <font size="4">(oooh yes!)</font>, buuut you’ll be meeting one of the characters. <font size="4">*DANCES*</font></strong></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>The ever-fabulous <a href="http://livkfisher.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Liv K. Fisher</a> has posted the set of questions for her bimonthly character linkup, The Language of Worlds—a linkup that asks us ten questions about any one of our characters of our choosing. I think this one runs until the end of October or thereabout, so if you want to join, check out the details and find the questions <a href="http://livkfisher.blogspot.com/2018/10/the-language-of-worlds-linkup-september.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. <font size="3">(But seriously, it’s so much fun. You should do iiiittt.)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>In August, I joined in the last one (you can find my post <a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/08/the-language-of-worlds-linkup-my-new-wip.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>), in which I introduced you all to a new WIP I spontaneously started, called King Bleed Gold—a King Midas retelling with DRAGONS.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Well… <strong>Guess what I’ve decided to write for NaNo?</strong></p>
<p align="center"><br><font color="#6ab077" size="7">KINGS BLEED GOLD</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Haha, yeeeah. I’m being a smidgen of a NaNo rebel, because you’re “supposed” to start something entirely new for NaNo. But I’m only being like…a fourth of a rebel, because I only have 1k words of the story written, and I might change up those 1k words anyway. So yeah, it’s still a very new novel. AND I AM EXCITED TO WRITE IT.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I’ll be telling you guys alllll the details and fun things about this story near the end of the month when I answer the questions to my own linkup </strong><a href="http://musingsofanelf.blogspot.com/2018/10/know-novel-part-1-introductory-new.html" target="_blank"><strong>Know the Novel</strong></a> <font size="2">(#shamelessplug)</font><font size="4">. Buuut, first I’ve got to actually figure out <em>what</em> all this novel is about. Because eheheheh, the more I plot, the more confused I get. It’s already turning into a convoluted monster, per the norm for me. <font size="2">(Whyyyy?)</font> But yeah, you’ll be getting all the fun facts <em>soon!</em></font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>For today though, I’ll be answering Liv’s lovely questions about one of my main characters, Korinna.</strong> I haven’t quite got a full grasp on Korinna’s personality yet, so this linkup came just in time! These things are always so helpful in digging deep into our characters’ heads. Are you excited? I’M EXCITED. So let’s get to it!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><a href="http://livkfisher.blogspot.com/2018/10/the-language-of-worlds-linkup-september.html" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/WTYWjYlOOutM3wKTdg8UDZI7W6KEsM9RsRTnVCjWHF8YBYDw7GVz9S_MC4cw4GiRnkrvuh5LBB8isNU7OKX0SgW3DP9Q1y-7jCjT8nL5d7GwixZcGqttkz1d1cloMvf1B32Ql-LM2cHCgwL0qk_Z2d2hsRcnvSxQKmqr7BT3hB900a4Ai7eHHjZ-qFnHIUWl5o1wJ74UiDrVt764zdt6tr-OZ9RqYJVIFqhrZxiqm6FIhaOMYagOzQgyIfxZEAZgXQ45BHbe7lpQFqtLMs3pVHB3AlpAuGRUkyZFTYlGQfGI0AubwhF2BkKWo9OIpqwb8eov4quNIGacHp8duwYwqGAzkmWDEIcCg3tcmZepwb6KTGMruhpdOl8k_Y0ne3OZdr4VUeslZfxxtlhYSe-KnIsPfFATNYpPK5KSPnrMLtEpuiVj0tC0BC4dWsAwJiIKoVeh0t9FppqQnOcvfoq90W5Bs0cccwRJ2iLUHbHaoqsvTtsw-rmqaEE7HAypMCT2TNUssZ4q5lquUSo9R8yxlJOf8bZbuiqqUBhuaAQeyUwdNbCw1fFb7Ex7Mm2-p3qTZu_VtOX2XEk-Nfbwbke9ZeaBhPr4lP_dceOTtu2bKA4fg2TErqlaoYuReqXJawU4i2hxJ6u3pQDsGLqVb-BVHdd0A2Xa--2FikyB1hYHa4cEafRJrt3Jbmqm=s640-no" width="450" height="450"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/W49aGwag2upJoyCoojp8_R_jIrRQIy4cz31alTpoJrUV1LtJIsE6vL0zWn25zBAUgR_Y5ZrVhD7K8vYrsyWgaFYlXoZsECIgJnwmtZf1d0lfYphAK8wzvSWOIIUUR_E_Pk-bx-n1rRl4qd7-O0AUh3GIFzbD_Jd3TnbLv9IdpQ4j4i8ixzBSuClOEVggniJucQfPMpxR1OpbUgfPsUeIysw8lwJyJ5vaPbcPlToJj2SbsadE0bitv4ccixj0NCGWWwCha13sv-ke6FT-bUbhAwjuf8gA4XdF76Wxga3Uf812uFqtTK15jnXsn6C0vYaSw6Jp-9vWdhsrhQqvng10FgSlyupnt3lj8iVIibPABK-7saKiwACUHAQYpsFAmEyLr58rgvTrzGzBlbqv8riCSENvHKADXAmgmpM_2_evPrLJDLbw39va7Fu5fZq2Uby7c0dZApPk8c1srGO1ONZpsI_4YmV3PLmE8e1xtPbbr8u0d8VzdWs3o6BCEbo6A3ieMXlfUPVRZcMPxbpRXm4mbuPbqxnMxAt_GNfL28I4Q8jKS1795vYnpPShBEarmOk1gM9JIqlQNnsZXEfDuiCVeV_jHyphdxwr_RDhEtj80usVdpK_pclLx2aoRwka1-Kb7ZqmHy_pO_GCe_qrz2jiKVcWahEQgUuIEW9O_jiut8rxLuMzznoPd1CJ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">KORINNA</font></p>
<p align="justify"><a href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/395683517257682737/" target="_blank"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/bIZTiOEoxaWovkarN-V6Nf6G3trlsiSCSZtKB7pfBSsleDdYvYDUX2b_WvJnGqrNk6K5qoUzO2BQ_21Sj9_3F8e9-noFKMpNNMm5adF2lvO0_Y7rooVTbvOLpwJQayc4vBNwGYc_uOx2wG2Xeac70O-Q40dWRg4jHVDuYAckdUlmIAD3mTQabzkqSDPhlC24FBajeD4TvAKOUshwhRyB-dJVnfvQqIs2Qzd-C_u0LbxqCxIdlm_X2-qPzMPyjWAwTylsQHXCdYTGoTb9A4DpCCNSdlAcHCw2Su-qIj9a7GMDNRhXdXb8nOz2ds4eS7KnVh_Eukqhs4bCrmYM4y0dkHPYG1PcAIe7iS5fmzdMiRZCHopqlXhsNtGm-fNtpH5fZ5QXJErf1LdevZKmSZcKvyODj_CAHU6Bksrs3JlxXClPNh9MQaK7xvPBVh8a2dd4zEjK8ryoE1ZPa7b2e7vkxMd6axSsPVsialOlo_eYBtwWhyN0DlPw7wkz_WCPMOQBRoFO7bavD7CJlUMb4ZcFJ2GJU901e4-VkAbXb_hSfhxGKKFH9rngbu7nGWyWEf_Y08x9Q5KrcdxLG79RlqhUDp4X4Ao3rMyHEWGEq-_XX-QhYLOSyp1X3EBWecZFWvRyjMX68UBllCHiQh_EnzrLjb_aGxrd4OJoKBrJKlF25MV8iUXQe2yWYM58=w365-h440-no" width="300" height="360"></a></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/W49aGwag2upJoyCoojp8_R_jIrRQIy4cz31alTpoJrUV1LtJIsE6vL0zWn25zBAUgR_Y5ZrVhD7K8vYrsyWgaFYlXoZsECIgJnwmtZf1d0lfYphAK8wzvSWOIIUUR_E_Pk-bx-n1rRl4qd7-O0AUh3GIFzbD_Jd3TnbLv9IdpQ4j4i8ixzBSuClOEVggniJucQfPMpxR1OpbUgfPsUeIysw8lwJyJ5vaPbcPlToJj2SbsadE0bitv4ccixj0NCGWWwCha13sv-ke6FT-bUbhAwjuf8gA4XdF76Wxga3Uf812uFqtTK15jnXsn6C0vYaSw6Jp-9vWdhsrhQqvng10FgSlyupnt3lj8iVIibPABK-7saKiwACUHAQYpsFAmEyLr58rgvTrzGzBlbqv8riCSENvHKADXAmgmpM_2_evPrLJDLbw39va7Fu5fZq2Uby7c0dZApPk8c1srGO1ONZpsI_4YmV3PLmE8e1xtPbbr8u0d8VzdWs3o6BCEbo6A3ieMXlfUPVRZcMPxbpRXm4mbuPbqxnMxAt_GNfL28I4Q8jKS1795vYnpPShBEarmOk1gM9JIqlQNnsZXEfDuiCVeV_jHyphdxwr_RDhEtj80usVdpK_pclLx2aoRwka1-Kb7ZqmHy_pO_GCe_qrz2jiKVcWahEQgUuIEW9O_jiut8rxLuMzznoPd1CJ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qxb3XLiHcNKi1bcby2XFcvwvLn3ve01p5Vr_hVnsR71JgKseKHMLAAw5x5ZThHjcu1KeNu5Z1GIsTj4XsE4vdEEWM7EJttc1sHCBxLV6x2FRlC4KicB9MNQlrPax63k37MjWfniBqVmeLngXgFrF_gr0SgfvTlwaZTcBvX-yZUTLpPHmMU8ZGqoniIWACR5OkNEXUtOnXTU4iei4IxvCFpRzpu6f0p1f9QsUCgKzGW6SoXS0q4FNbauUJLYKCCXAtn9Eb5mu2-KylGnR0u1Oz-EEtLoLhIOr2jU_m_MjFxc4DOAGyjQPNhUzLbFry_14UrYBusLMp8e0Awq8Rfvluq9jf9VH_ZPodUqjh4T0KdhOuyec4uZCixNz6asju2yrO6gN8_0Jzu7TgzIcXx8gS5dCErN9GQxkJr0MXR-r-6CSR6ZzPh11RavisO2WunK-SX9q9B8h5Lz7a-OuHyQZy7g_9W-V9R-fsA_C2n_RqbVe3AZEamzphjZ8VU8NT2FCMpM_XYD4hCtCE5qyOlbBZW1BwOQEgcX1aQA0Ouj94dpTVOgcCeeuKLXgHPgaIMCiKh8g76vEBCZdoYzhfevC72ccBUg_0jSBa_q0rCR96-JYzSId-laiDQUUZDoQKEimB26kSFnpii6Ugwql8GQyH69YUcOP_I2fj51kTdNCjtNDIlLf-yzT0foj=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">1.) What does your character fear the most?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Seeing others be harmed due to her own failings.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Bit of backstory: Korinna is a slave to the dragons, and when the slaves misbehave, instead of punishing <em>them</em>, the dragons punish them by going off on a human killing spree. <font size="3">(This is such a <em>nice</em> world I’ve created.)</font> Korinna has a deep heart for people, and she’s been through…a lot, and seen some pretty terrible things. She hates serving the dragons, but she knows if she doesn’t, other will suffer. So her greatest fear is that people will die because of her.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qxb3XLiHcNKi1bcby2XFcvwvLn3ve01p5Vr_hVnsR71JgKseKHMLAAw5x5ZThHjcu1KeNu5Z1GIsTj4XsE4vdEEWM7EJttc1sHCBxLV6x2FRlC4KicB9MNQlrPax63k37MjWfniBqVmeLngXgFrF_gr0SgfvTlwaZTcBvX-yZUTLpPHmMU8ZGqoniIWACR5OkNEXUtOnXTU4iei4IxvCFpRzpu6f0p1f9QsUCgKzGW6SoXS0q4FNbauUJLYKCCXAtn9Eb5mu2-KylGnR0u1Oz-EEtLoLhIOr2jU_m_MjFxc4DOAGyjQPNhUzLbFry_14UrYBusLMp8e0Awq8Rfvluq9jf9VH_ZPodUqjh4T0KdhOuyec4uZCixNz6asju2yrO6gN8_0Jzu7TgzIcXx8gS5dCErN9GQxkJr0MXR-r-6CSR6ZzPh11RavisO2WunK-SX9q9B8h5Lz7a-OuHyQZy7g_9W-V9R-fsA_C2n_RqbVe3AZEamzphjZ8VU8NT2FCMpM_XYD4hCtCE5qyOlbBZW1BwOQEgcX1aQA0Ouj94dpTVOgcCeeuKLXgHPgaIMCiKh8g76vEBCZdoYzhfevC72ccBUg_0jSBa_q0rCR96-JYzSId-laiDQUUZDoQKEimB26kSFnpii6Ugwql8GQyH69YUcOP_I2fj51kTdNCjtNDIlLf-yzT0foj=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">2.) How would they handle it if they were to face their fear?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>This fear is really Korinna’s driving force day to day. When something terrible like this happens, it just pushes her harder to make it never happen again, as well as to try to get the other slaves to behave themselves and avoid this terrible punishment as well.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>She hopes that as long as she does as much work as she can, it’ll cause the dragons to not kidnap more slaves, and appease them so they won’t harm anyone.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qxb3XLiHcNKi1bcby2XFcvwvLn3ve01p5Vr_hVnsR71JgKseKHMLAAw5x5ZThHjcu1KeNu5Z1GIsTj4XsE4vdEEWM7EJttc1sHCBxLV6x2FRlC4KicB9MNQlrPax63k37MjWfniBqVmeLngXgFrF_gr0SgfvTlwaZTcBvX-yZUTLpPHmMU8ZGqoniIWACR5OkNEXUtOnXTU4iei4IxvCFpRzpu6f0p1f9QsUCgKzGW6SoXS0q4FNbauUJLYKCCXAtn9Eb5mu2-KylGnR0u1Oz-EEtLoLhIOr2jU_m_MjFxc4DOAGyjQPNhUzLbFry_14UrYBusLMp8e0Awq8Rfvluq9jf9VH_ZPodUqjh4T0KdhOuyec4uZCixNz6asju2yrO6gN8_0Jzu7TgzIcXx8gS5dCErN9GQxkJr0MXR-r-6CSR6ZzPh11RavisO2WunK-SX9q9B8h5Lz7a-OuHyQZy7g_9W-V9R-fsA_C2n_RqbVe3AZEamzphjZ8VU8NT2FCMpM_XYD4hCtCE5qyOlbBZW1BwOQEgcX1aQA0Ouj94dpTVOgcCeeuKLXgHPgaIMCiKh8g76vEBCZdoYzhfevC72ccBUg_0jSBa_q0rCR96-JYzSId-laiDQUUZDoQKEimB26kSFnpii6Ugwql8GQyH69YUcOP_I2fj51kTdNCjtNDIlLf-yzT0foj=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">3.) Do they want to get married? Why or why not?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Something like marriage has never really been an option for her, and she most certainly wouldn’t want to bring a child into the life she endures. Again, her driving force is assuring no one else gets hurt, no matter how much harm that brings herself.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But, yes. She’s definitely dreamed of a normal, safe life where she can happily be married and have all the children she wants. She just knows such a life will forever be denied her. So she fills that void by doing her best to protect the people she <em>does</em> have.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qxb3XLiHcNKi1bcby2XFcvwvLn3ve01p5Vr_hVnsR71JgKseKHMLAAw5x5ZThHjcu1KeNu5Z1GIsTj4XsE4vdEEWM7EJttc1sHCBxLV6x2FRlC4KicB9MNQlrPax63k37MjWfniBqVmeLngXgFrF_gr0SgfvTlwaZTcBvX-yZUTLpPHmMU8ZGqoniIWACR5OkNEXUtOnXTU4iei4IxvCFpRzpu6f0p1f9QsUCgKzGW6SoXS0q4FNbauUJLYKCCXAtn9Eb5mu2-KylGnR0u1Oz-EEtLoLhIOr2jU_m_MjFxc4DOAGyjQPNhUzLbFry_14UrYBusLMp8e0Awq8Rfvluq9jf9VH_ZPodUqjh4T0KdhOuyec4uZCixNz6asju2yrO6gN8_0Jzu7TgzIcXx8gS5dCErN9GQxkJr0MXR-r-6CSR6ZzPh11RavisO2WunK-SX9q9B8h5Lz7a-OuHyQZy7g_9W-V9R-fsA_C2n_RqbVe3AZEamzphjZ8VU8NT2FCMpM_XYD4hCtCE5qyOlbBZW1BwOQEgcX1aQA0Ouj94dpTVOgcCeeuKLXgHPgaIMCiKh8g76vEBCZdoYzhfevC72ccBUg_0jSBa_q0rCR96-JYzSId-laiDQUUZDoQKEimB26kSFnpii6Ugwql8GQyH69YUcOP_I2fj51kTdNCjtNDIlLf-yzT0foj=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">4.) What is their love language (i.e. words of affirmation, physical touch, gifts, quality time, acts of service)?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Words of affirmation, definitely. She pours so much of herself out for others, being encouraged and told what she’s doing is important and that she means a lot to a person lifts her up more than anything else.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>But quality time comes verrrryyy close. She truly values when people show they care about her enough to choose to spend their time with her. Her time is so consumed with work, she’s acutely aware at how precious it is. So having someone use their valuable time for her touches her deeply.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qxb3XLiHcNKi1bcby2XFcvwvLn3ve01p5Vr_hVnsR71JgKseKHMLAAw5x5ZThHjcu1KeNu5Z1GIsTj4XsE4vdEEWM7EJttc1sHCBxLV6x2FRlC4KicB9MNQlrPax63k37MjWfniBqVmeLngXgFrF_gr0SgfvTlwaZTcBvX-yZUTLpPHmMU8ZGqoniIWACR5OkNEXUtOnXTU4iei4IxvCFpRzpu6f0p1f9QsUCgKzGW6SoXS0q4FNbauUJLYKCCXAtn9Eb5mu2-KylGnR0u1Oz-EEtLoLhIOr2jU_m_MjFxc4DOAGyjQPNhUzLbFry_14UrYBusLMp8e0Awq8Rfvluq9jf9VH_ZPodUqjh4T0KdhOuyec4uZCixNz6asju2yrO6gN8_0Jzu7TgzIcXx8gS5dCErN9GQxkJr0MXR-r-6CSR6ZzPh11RavisO2WunK-SX9q9B8h5Lz7a-OuHyQZy7g_9W-V9R-fsA_C2n_RqbVe3AZEamzphjZ8VU8NT2FCMpM_XYD4hCtCE5qyOlbBZW1BwOQEgcX1aQA0Ouj94dpTVOgcCeeuKLXgHPgaIMCiKh8g76vEBCZdoYzhfevC72ccBUg_0jSBa_q0rCR96-JYzSId-laiDQUUZDoQKEimB26kSFnpii6Ugwql8GQyH69YUcOP_I2fj51kTdNCjtNDIlLf-yzT0foj=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">5.) On a scale from 1 (messy) to 5 (organized), how do they rate?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I would say a full 5. Again, time is a valuable thing, and she doesn’t have enough of it to be disorganized or messy with her work. She can map out a day and her workload to optimum capacity. Gotta keep those grumpy dragons happy, remember. Eheh.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qxb3XLiHcNKi1bcby2XFcvwvLn3ve01p5Vr_hVnsR71JgKseKHMLAAw5x5ZThHjcu1KeNu5Z1GIsTj4XsE4vdEEWM7EJttc1sHCBxLV6x2FRlC4KicB9MNQlrPax63k37MjWfniBqVmeLngXgFrF_gr0SgfvTlwaZTcBvX-yZUTLpPHmMU8ZGqoniIWACR5OkNEXUtOnXTU4iei4IxvCFpRzpu6f0p1f9QsUCgKzGW6SoXS0q4FNbauUJLYKCCXAtn9Eb5mu2-KylGnR0u1Oz-EEtLoLhIOr2jU_m_MjFxc4DOAGyjQPNhUzLbFry_14UrYBusLMp8e0Awq8Rfvluq9jf9VH_ZPodUqjh4T0KdhOuyec4uZCixNz6asju2yrO6gN8_0Jzu7TgzIcXx8gS5dCErN9GQxkJr0MXR-r-6CSR6ZzPh11RavisO2WunK-SX9q9B8h5Lz7a-OuHyQZy7g_9W-V9R-fsA_C2n_RqbVe3AZEamzphjZ8VU8NT2FCMpM_XYD4hCtCE5qyOlbBZW1BwOQEgcX1aQA0Ouj94dpTVOgcCeeuKLXgHPgaIMCiKh8g76vEBCZdoYzhfevC72ccBUg_0jSBa_q0rCR96-JYzSId-laiDQUUZDoQKEimB26kSFnpii6Ugwql8GQyH69YUcOP_I2fj51kTdNCjtNDIlLf-yzT0foj=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">6.) How do they feel about debates/disagreements?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Korinna does not shy away from them. She’s often the instigator of debates if she finds the subject important and needs to be discussed. Disagreements are certainly nothing she enjoys, but her need to speak out against injustices is stronger than her want for peacekeeping.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qxb3XLiHcNKi1bcby2XFcvwvLn3ve01p5Vr_hVnsR71JgKseKHMLAAw5x5ZThHjcu1KeNu5Z1GIsTj4XsE4vdEEWM7EJttc1sHCBxLV6x2FRlC4KicB9MNQlrPax63k37MjWfniBqVmeLngXgFrF_gr0SgfvTlwaZTcBvX-yZUTLpPHmMU8ZGqoniIWACR5OkNEXUtOnXTU4iei4IxvCFpRzpu6f0p1f9QsUCgKzGW6SoXS0q4FNbauUJLYKCCXAtn9Eb5mu2-KylGnR0u1Oz-EEtLoLhIOr2jU_m_MjFxc4DOAGyjQPNhUzLbFry_14UrYBusLMp8e0Awq8Rfvluq9jf9VH_ZPodUqjh4T0KdhOuyec4uZCixNz6asju2yrO6gN8_0Jzu7TgzIcXx8gS5dCErN9GQxkJr0MXR-r-6CSR6ZzPh11RavisO2WunK-SX9q9B8h5Lz7a-OuHyQZy7g_9W-V9R-fsA_C2n_RqbVe3AZEamzphjZ8VU8NT2FCMpM_XYD4hCtCE5qyOlbBZW1BwOQEgcX1aQA0Ouj94dpTVOgcCeeuKLXgHPgaIMCiKh8g76vEBCZdoYzhfevC72ccBUg_0jSBa_q0rCR96-JYzSId-laiDQUUZDoQKEimB26kSFnpii6Ugwql8GQyH69YUcOP_I2fj51kTdNCjtNDIlLf-yzT0foj=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">7.) What do they bring to a battle (figurative or literal)?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Korinna isn’t really a fighter, but she could absolutely be one of the sharp minds behind battle formations. Again, she’s extremely organized and also intelligent. So I guess she’d bring…her brain? XD</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qxb3XLiHcNKi1bcby2XFcvwvLn3ve01p5Vr_hVnsR71JgKseKHMLAAw5x5ZThHjcu1KeNu5Z1GIsTj4XsE4vdEEWM7EJttc1sHCBxLV6x2FRlC4KicB9MNQlrPax63k37MjWfniBqVmeLngXgFrF_gr0SgfvTlwaZTcBvX-yZUTLpPHmMU8ZGqoniIWACR5OkNEXUtOnXTU4iei4IxvCFpRzpu6f0p1f9QsUCgKzGW6SoXS0q4FNbauUJLYKCCXAtn9Eb5mu2-KylGnR0u1Oz-EEtLoLhIOr2jU_m_MjFxc4DOAGyjQPNhUzLbFry_14UrYBusLMp8e0Awq8Rfvluq9jf9VH_ZPodUqjh4T0KdhOuyec4uZCixNz6asju2yrO6gN8_0Jzu7TgzIcXx8gS5dCErN9GQxkJr0MXR-r-6CSR6ZzPh11RavisO2WunK-SX9q9B8h5Lz7a-OuHyQZy7g_9W-V9R-fsA_C2n_RqbVe3AZEamzphjZ8VU8NT2FCMpM_XYD4hCtCE5qyOlbBZW1BwOQEgcX1aQA0Ouj94dpTVOgcCeeuKLXgHPgaIMCiKh8g76vEBCZdoYzhfevC72ccBUg_0jSBa_q0rCR96-JYzSId-laiDQUUZDoQKEimB26kSFnpii6Ugwql8GQyH69YUcOP_I2fj51kTdNCjtNDIlLf-yzT0foj=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">8.) What's their favorite thing to eat for breakfast?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Erm, she doesn’t have a lot of options when it comes to food. She has to eat to survive, she doesn’t have the luxury of it being a recreational activity. Berries and cooked fish are her main sources of food.</p>
<p><br>But if she <em>wasn’t</em> a slave and had her option of any food, I see her as a fruit on top of pancakes type of girl. Not that…they have pancakes in her world, but ya know.</font></p><font size="4">
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qxb3XLiHcNKi1bcby2XFcvwvLn3ve01p5Vr_hVnsR71JgKseKHMLAAw5x5ZThHjcu1KeNu5Z1GIsTj4XsE4vdEEWM7EJttc1sHCBxLV6x2FRlC4KicB9MNQlrPax63k37MjWfniBqVmeLngXgFrF_gr0SgfvTlwaZTcBvX-yZUTLpPHmMU8ZGqoniIWACR5OkNEXUtOnXTU4iei4IxvCFpRzpu6f0p1f9QsUCgKzGW6SoXS0q4FNbauUJLYKCCXAtn9Eb5mu2-KylGnR0u1Oz-EEtLoLhIOr2jU_m_MjFxc4DOAGyjQPNhUzLbFry_14UrYBusLMp8e0Awq8Rfvluq9jf9VH_ZPodUqjh4T0KdhOuyec4uZCixNz6asju2yrO6gN8_0Jzu7TgzIcXx8gS5dCErN9GQxkJr0MXR-r-6CSR6ZzPh11RavisO2WunK-SX9q9B8h5Lz7a-OuHyQZy7g_9W-V9R-fsA_C2n_RqbVe3AZEamzphjZ8VU8NT2FCMpM_XYD4hCtCE5qyOlbBZW1BwOQEgcX1aQA0Ouj94dpTVOgcCeeuKLXgHPgaIMCiKh8g76vEBCZdoYzhfevC72ccBUg_0jSBa_q0rCR96-JYzSId-laiDQUUZDoQKEimB26kSFnpii6Ugwql8GQyH69YUcOP_I2fj51kTdNCjtNDIlLf-yzT0foj=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">9.) How do they treat themself after a long day?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Every day is long for her. <font size="2">(I treat my characters so, so well.)</font> Usually she just collapses in bed. But she values time to herself to just think, so when she’s not <em>too</em> tired, she’ll occasionally just find somewhere quiet outside to sit and ponder life.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Qxb3XLiHcNKi1bcby2XFcvwvLn3ve01p5Vr_hVnsR71JgKseKHMLAAw5x5ZThHjcu1KeNu5Z1GIsTj4XsE4vdEEWM7EJttc1sHCBxLV6x2FRlC4KicB9MNQlrPax63k37MjWfniBqVmeLngXgFrF_gr0SgfvTlwaZTcBvX-yZUTLpPHmMU8ZGqoniIWACR5OkNEXUtOnXTU4iei4IxvCFpRzpu6f0p1f9QsUCgKzGW6SoXS0q4FNbauUJLYKCCXAtn9Eb5mu2-KylGnR0u1Oz-EEtLoLhIOr2jU_m_MjFxc4DOAGyjQPNhUzLbFry_14UrYBusLMp8e0Awq8Rfvluq9jf9VH_ZPodUqjh4T0KdhOuyec4uZCixNz6asju2yrO6gN8_0Jzu7TgzIcXx8gS5dCErN9GQxkJr0MXR-r-6CSR6ZzPh11RavisO2WunK-SX9q9B8h5Lz7a-OuHyQZy7g_9W-V9R-fsA_C2n_RqbVe3AZEamzphjZ8VU8NT2FCMpM_XYD4hCtCE5qyOlbBZW1BwOQEgcX1aQA0Ouj94dpTVOgcCeeuKLXgHPgaIMCiKh8g76vEBCZdoYzhfevC72ccBUg_0jSBa_q0rCR96-JYzSId-laiDQUUZDoQKEimB26kSFnpii6Ugwql8GQyH69YUcOP_I2fj51kTdNCjtNDIlLf-yzT0foj=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">10.) What do you most want readers to glean from this story?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>One of my most favorite quotes is by Oswald Chambers that says:</p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><br><font size="6"><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>Never look for justice, but never cease to live it.”</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br>If we spend our lives searching for justice in this world, we’re going to be sorely disappointed. It’s a dark, harsh world we live in. BUT, that does not give <em>us </em>permission to dish harshness back. We should always, always show kindness and goodness, no matter how terribly injustice our circumstances might be.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>And that is the theme of this book. My main character Midas is a bratty, pompous king who is constantly rationalizing his behavior. But through many, er, unfortunate circumstances he begins to learn the importance of just being <em>kind</em>, for no other reason than that it is right, even though it’s hard. And, as you can probably guess, Korinna is a key factor in helping him learn this lesson.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/W49aGwag2upJoyCoojp8_R_jIrRQIy4cz31alTpoJrUV1LtJIsE6vL0zWn25zBAUgR_Y5ZrVhD7K8vYrsyWgaFYlXoZsECIgJnwmtZf1d0lfYphAK8wzvSWOIIUUR_E_Pk-bx-n1rRl4qd7-O0AUh3GIFzbD_Jd3TnbLv9IdpQ4j4i8ixzBSuClOEVggniJucQfPMpxR1OpbUgfPsUeIysw8lwJyJ5vaPbcPlToJj2SbsadE0bitv4ccixj0NCGWWwCha13sv-ke6FT-bUbhAwjuf8gA4XdF76Wxga3Uf812uFqtTK15jnXsn6C0vYaSw6Jp-9vWdhsrhQqvng10FgSlyupnt3lj8iVIibPABK-7saKiwACUHAQYpsFAmEyLr58rgvTrzGzBlbqv8riCSENvHKADXAmgmpM_2_evPrLJDLbw39va7Fu5fZq2Uby7c0dZApPk8c1srGO1ONZpsI_4YmV3PLmE8e1xtPbbr8u0d8VzdWs3o6BCEbo6A3ieMXlfUPVRZcMPxbpRXm4mbuPbqxnMxAt_GNfL28I4Q8jKS1795vYnpPShBEarmOk1gM9JIqlQNnsZXEfDuiCVeV_jHyphdxwr_RDhEtj80usVdpK_pclLx2aoRwka1-Kb7ZqmHy_pO_GCe_qrz2jiKVcWahEQgUuIEW9O_jiut8rxLuMzznoPd1CJ=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>There we are, my girl Korinna! This was <em>exceedingly</em> helpful getting a better grasp on her character. I even accidentally realized what her MBTI type is whilst writing this post. I’m pretty positive she’s an ISFJ. <font size="3">(One of my main characters in my last NaNo novel was an ISFJ too. I’m apparently very partial to that type…)</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU, Liv, for these great questions and wonderful linkup! I’m now all pumped to get back to plotting now that I have a better understanding of this character. This was great!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>And don’t forget, if you want to participate yourself, just head on over to </strong><a href="http://livkfisher.blogspot.com/2018/10/the-language-of-worlds-linkup-september.html" target="_blank"><strong>LIV'S POST</strong></a><strong> to snag the questions and link up!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/YokAxcH_HR1x-KlUxX-LvmFt3EP_vnhHIvo17Aev5GGr1lA_yz0r9328G9uwh_W10K0RzZpw7MCqemp5yszRszxdNYreX2zbvjHFhmL-ymLYdd7Uxsot8aILBBsk58hIf7EylFjVvq_2y0QIG7CRW5QU5dXjht4arvPA32TVEnuJG1siu9pAs4hYugNcJyt86gI4XNKD3vzDvYT9QsDXbTu0s-tAb_ywn-XVai3aFPg70rBKHRNMOZpu0hi7sVczJgtPFXXpsv04SRx8ihZ32xTk3MmseeTRBUE6Onh5Jz8W2pcfoqFOkqF4xQMyM9KWVXTu7VXT8lF9gALsU8uqZ5ROiX5XkR_YJdhzns405y2dIv0L282Oaso_OeLMkQEc9ElX3ZEpbNNcC1_Hqj22B8RwyFtVs64hVSFi4A9QJJ5SNXJLC1Q40AKTgoabpalFIkhrZEG02OQQDlmOAv4Jb7m0EyaW31C-2jI7IidErE5PctcQ13g3dxfN2WYR4OIaayRn7mcqSPYHqfJVm3NgD0g3Au7Pv_qKyD70U2KMV9cjN3F2mj_cHftL0UChDpkJYA9a-H_OJi6bon6oS8cuGx3em9JkljijgGHMNnYNVLSNTQ_yMBTglMyLS9vJchD7uvuyUUM9Pb7ZiSCi338xSPn-M2KwkYO84rSS4VBLUx_GcDpUAmA5hMtl=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><font size="5">What do you think of Korinna? Am I totally the worst to my characters? <font size="3">(The answer is: yes.)</font> And have you joined in on this linkup, because you definitely </font></font><font size="5">should!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-40124858820807868682018-10-08T09:41:00.000-05:002018-10-08T09:41:04.381-05:00Know the Novel Part 1 - Introductory {A New Writing Linkup!}<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oJDPnL5JKpKMtxBGsa2DM8Geiu43GEWJvvQIwrp-uA3tQoUXmXHprnHEgNCtjE0Ss6sAmenrT9of8gbgBhUj5kqxQvwWtz2V1mdmRORKWNLbpPq-04K1tE0KMGk9UrOOIU36dkZmFlVBYl-9JJbPSenhQczgrokAVuJwJz2Hes78SDU2oJtjzz4C-OZQaXVdesL9vGq6Rn4qCc3uvNRTZOcnLMLM2BoOS3gtSeaab9lrAOqSQ-S_BwQaSdcwpCyWF77yJ9R3FUmPlYlH6ej8rCyb7vEM9fxBi1E78-5lIoJ9OlgZZxFKzeIv6X806XqBDxL9kmLCedUUshhtX2wVRF9DMiQ5GqphbJ-DIA7CfGCBQXZEPPvG7GKnwWni5ZBSirFr-Fycun2yGorjwk5OkR_qh1F4t3sqq86a-jFPu3MBYeEmpUQzDBCtcCU9ayEUudZHpGhgz-LnuVp4uXDSdSj3FsbXL2QAdZakW-2m6zEJ8_LZVHVUiPwywVL0MAEaHft0OvvlSV7lPrN1kSzuQuz610R8fNPkq9jWrF7eX0vxrFm_TwI9kHhmUbXMum-95nT5w_zVo3jZ5Rd7XZaPj0r38Yoh7j8N82Zzek5hrS6ybMr_Q36SCD2MGypT5H5zazmJvYkhdCAdowXveLgMmEFKmDf-wCU_5Z3KUiJRMycLvI14Ey7L0fUA=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">Last week I promised I had something super fun for you all coming. Well, here it is. A writing linkup!!! And my first EVER linkup to create.</font></strong> <font size="5"><strong>I AM ALL THE EXCITED</strong></font>.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>So a bunch of you probably remember during NaNoWriMo season <a href="http://www.furtherupfurtherin.net/" target="_blank">Sky @ Further Up and Further In</a> and <a href="https://paperfury.com/" target="_blank">Cait @ Paperfury</a> always did a special novel edition of their Beautiful People linkup called Beautiful Books. It was a great linkup for introducing our novels and talking about our writing in celebration of NaNoWriMo. Buuut since they had to close their Beautiful People/Books linkups for now due to that thing called Life <font size="2">(something we can all relate to, I’m sure)</font>, I decided to create something very much in the same vein as Beautiful Books! I adored that linkup. It was always such a great way to share what I was writing for NaNoWriMo.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>So…introducing…</p>
<p align="center"><br><font size="7">KNOW THE NOVEL!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><br></p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LnL9AigyLpXtlTTGNtt2zBRf--rVzcSQkJLlTzyAw3Bz7zBsKBTTY8f4EIWYDg_pDeEkAYPE2hd5Ibe4HvDXv0lqJwCu15xFc1dj7v4bsiEThkBINK5LLTXPGOw_HEM2zNj5oS6cBMTgx1DUqfi8YMXZ1QlYlPkNP3RT-_aHPXFovgOSfTELYXsc0dKiJQaa3-smVaT5CJIvRSnka9a7ZuYg0cVrCvY7P5jNF3MT15CCJHed0ypenCiifTYSOBwE-TOtPexhhWGZZqLKmbFDYHE7lEM5-xECR-I2q4SgzZaK8b5WTISU03EIA1fJ6WgjWcqg9ZFtuIw-CNRi4L2ByosIhlzq10OPe8RRguQVqfnBtS3GP5iDC2sVuK6-Z9R7YLpOj0BAkCgH83VbqRjj7P6NeNyvGnbis7m9NC8O0isuzhVPsMImnehZ4Dm1pJQD5lQBbGGjh0dJl44CsqMO_mVs_k047fVwDT_fCnySNG-1hTctsnr_lzEOZV72qLHswi-rVPsbV5xRPspSJkVyllO3kDbOuM1cNJvIiKomdtsKyDZcMRAG4F-hUdj0BIDAuJCaZWtLkITLjkn_P55zhBgiTlZ84-EEL76x7_rM_X6JhGOUEV6zMewlawp3H05uwuYjNEhFSUdBUkte88eBzEQjYUhtFVCI-IiDF2d7tLYZJkouYtlH2i0x=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><font size="7">THE INFO</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Like Beautiful Books, this will be a 3-part linkup series, one for each of these last three months of the year. Each one will feature ten questions you can answer on your own blog (or anywhere else on social media if you’d like!). The questions will be focusing on different parts of the novel/your writing.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5">It will go as followed:</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="6">October</font></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Part One: Introductory</font></strong> – These questions will be centered on you telling us all about your novel and giving the fun, juicy details.</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="6">November</font></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Part Two: Within the WIP</font></strong> – This is more focused on how the writing is going, what problems and victories you’ve experienced, your writing process, etc. Basically all the fun behind the scenes writing things!</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="6">December</font></p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Part Three: Writing and Beyond</font></strong> – The last one will have questions asking how the full writing of the novel went and what your next plans for your novel will be!</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>The gist of it is, for three months I’ll throw ten novel/writing-related questions your way, and you can answer them on your own blog.</strong> Sound fun? I hope so!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>Though I am doing this during NaNo season since, ya know, a lot of us are <em>doing</em> NaNo. <strong>You DO NOT have to be doing NaNoWriMo to participate. You can answer these questions for <em>any</em> WIP you have.</strong> It’s all just for fun! Plus I <em>love</em> seeing what all my writer frens are working on. So share away!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LnL9AigyLpXtlTTGNtt2zBRf--rVzcSQkJLlTzyAw3Bz7zBsKBTTY8f4EIWYDg_pDeEkAYPE2hd5Ibe4HvDXv0lqJwCu15xFc1dj7v4bsiEThkBINK5LLTXPGOw_HEM2zNj5oS6cBMTgx1DUqfi8YMXZ1QlYlPkNP3RT-_aHPXFovgOSfTELYXsc0dKiJQaa3-smVaT5CJIvRSnka9a7ZuYg0cVrCvY7P5jNF3MT15CCJHed0ypenCiifTYSOBwE-TOtPexhhWGZZqLKmbFDYHE7lEM5-xECR-I2q4SgzZaK8b5WTISU03EIA1fJ6WgjWcqg9ZFtuIw-CNRi4L2ByosIhlzq10OPe8RRguQVqfnBtS3GP5iDC2sVuK6-Z9R7YLpOj0BAkCgH83VbqRjj7P6NeNyvGnbis7m9NC8O0isuzhVPsMImnehZ4Dm1pJQD5lQBbGGjh0dJl44CsqMO_mVs_k047fVwDT_fCnySNG-1hTctsnr_lzEOZV72qLHswi-rVPsbV5xRPspSJkVyllO3kDbOuM1cNJvIiKomdtsKyDZcMRAG4F-hUdj0BIDAuJCaZWtLkITLjkn_P55zhBgiTlZ84-EEL76x7_rM_X6JhGOUEV6zMewlawp3H05uwuYjNEhFSUdBUkte88eBzEQjYUhtFVCI-IiDF2d7tLYZJkouYtlH2i0x=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Alrighty, now that we know what’s going on, let’s get to the questions!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nTmt0MafoCzjZhKLvque90rY8ddLHkbdamhZMU4FhlE_7XOWwRK5JxGV7dJH9ZXu2FBLje4ZY00ZwT331asFaKjrhiIvyDNeSwwwLWZnYBfILZ408nJIXCRfPxF9NCPdsSuXdMfIuCcc8kkAiJMyGKeLbE9Irm90U-mUxEDdVIUqOKw06-Fhik2AcjCftOYXhaonNMzxPAoGjXvgOCYywwlqcepckaz39VrVURgQDLRC1o9K-yZ-fc_WlXFa8vNsaMTOwe67h0mXHWPJAVU8yU1UYhcJk-S4y10IHwgpLEaAsEjTmeLxsEKIYf1QJYVYXKecPyiT22eLhj9UTv5UcDROfgNXKYQCArHzscPzVQUzqD6e66u3XU0MP4USyjfywsKRD-c2WwaaOyuGA_hL5aMDF5MjntpUEsY4Dn_67Q8EpWfNdRcCsIcd7r5YgsCjD7bYBQP9CSJ1hLVghkKYJksUTtIOIoJnBHr5KOss3hZCw3p-0ho6nVTChtGbkqT39MQeZNOM61302NeUTJHaxfAZuXFRCzY3dW-ZzzMt9VsR44lLuyIMgTFJD79zBI9Da56qlXsjp5uvPAui5HVcuI89ap2AAVQ-0CGlG1zoCFIuaOJd_RbZ_acIUrVL5_r_X43QT35vO6R2E3lBQnH0HrP38yGGNKNuyS5Qt4e89A1Z3HdE62lYMGGr=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7">KNOW THE NOVEL PART ONE:<br>INTRODUCTORY</font></p>
<p align="justify"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/nTmt0MafoCzjZhKLvque90rY8ddLHkbdamhZMU4FhlE_7XOWwRK5JxGV7dJH9ZXu2FBLje4ZY00ZwT331asFaKjrhiIvyDNeSwwwLWZnYBfILZ408nJIXCRfPxF9NCPdsSuXdMfIuCcc8kkAiJMyGKeLbE9Irm90U-mUxEDdVIUqOKw06-Fhik2AcjCftOYXhaonNMzxPAoGjXvgOCYywwlqcepckaz39VrVURgQDLRC1o9K-yZ-fc_WlXFa8vNsaMTOwe67h0mXHWPJAVU8yU1UYhcJk-S4y10IHwgpLEaAsEjTmeLxsEKIYf1QJYVYXKecPyiT22eLhj9UTv5UcDROfgNXKYQCArHzscPzVQUzqD6e66u3XU0MP4USyjfywsKRD-c2WwaaOyuGA_hL5aMDF5MjntpUEsY4Dn_67Q8EpWfNdRcCsIcd7r5YgsCjD7bYBQP9CSJ1hLVghkKYJksUTtIOIoJnBHr5KOss3hZCw3p-0ho6nVTChtGbkqT39MQeZNOM61302NeUTJHaxfAZuXFRCzY3dW-ZzzMt9VsR44lLuyIMgTFJD79zBI9Da56qlXsjp5uvPAui5HVcuI89ap2AAVQ-0CGlG1zoCFIuaOJd_RbZ_acIUrVL5_r_X43QT35vO6R2E3lBQnH0HrP38yGGNKNuyS5Qt4e89A1Z3HdE62lYMGGr=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/oJDPnL5JKpKMtxBGsa2DM8Geiu43GEWJvvQIwrp-uA3tQoUXmXHprnHEgNCtjE0Ss6sAmenrT9of8gbgBhUj5kqxQvwWtz2V1mdmRORKWNLbpPq-04K1tE0KMGk9UrOOIU36dkZmFlVBYl-9JJbPSenhQczgrokAVuJwJz2Hes78SDU2oJtjzz4C-OZQaXVdesL9vGq6Rn4qCc3uvNRTZOcnLMLM2BoOS3gtSeaab9lrAOqSQ-S_BwQaSdcwpCyWF77yJ9R3FUmPlYlH6ej8rCyb7vEM9fxBi1E78-5lIoJ9OlgZZxFKzeIv6X806XqBDxL9kmLCedUUshhtX2wVRF9DMiQ5GqphbJ-DIA7CfGCBQXZEPPvG7GKnwWni5ZBSirFr-Fycun2yGorjwk5OkR_qh1F4t3sqq86a-jFPu3MBYeEmpUQzDBCtcCU9ayEUudZHpGhgz-LnuVp4uXDSdSj3FsbXL2QAdZakW-2m6zEJ8_LZVHVUiPwywVL0MAEaHft0OvvlSV7lPrN1kSzuQuz610R8fNPkq9jWrF7eX0vxrFm_TwI9kHhmUbXMum-95nT5w_zVo3jZ5Rd7XZaPj0r38Yoh7j8N82Zzek5hrS6ybMr_Q36SCD2MGypT5H5zazmJvYkhdCAdowXveLgMmEFKmDf-wCU_5Z3KUiJRMycLvI14Ey7L0fUA=w1221-h915-no" width="450" height="338"></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><strong><font size="5">I’d be honored for you to use the graphic above for your own posts, but it’s certainly not required!<br></font></strong></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><br></p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LnL9AigyLpXtlTTGNtt2zBRf--rVzcSQkJLlTzyAw3Bz7zBsKBTTY8f4EIWYDg_pDeEkAYPE2hd5Ibe4HvDXv0lqJwCu15xFc1dj7v4bsiEThkBINK5LLTXPGOw_HEM2zNj5oS6cBMTgx1DUqfi8YMXZ1QlYlPkNP3RT-_aHPXFovgOSfTELYXsc0dKiJQaa3-smVaT5CJIvRSnka9a7ZuYg0cVrCvY7P5jNF3MT15CCJHed0ypenCiifTYSOBwE-TOtPexhhWGZZqLKmbFDYHE7lEM5-xECR-I2q4SgzZaK8b5WTISU03EIA1fJ6WgjWcqg9ZFtuIw-CNRi4L2ByosIhlzq10OPe8RRguQVqfnBtS3GP5iDC2sVuK6-Z9R7YLpOj0BAkCgH83VbqRjj7P6NeNyvGnbis7m9NC8O0isuzhVPsMImnehZ4Dm1pJQD5lQBbGGjh0dJl44CsqMO_mVs_k047fVwDT_fCnySNG-1hTctsnr_lzEOZV72qLHswi-rVPsbV5xRPspSJkVyllO3kDbOuM1cNJvIiKomdtsKyDZcMRAG4F-hUdj0BIDAuJCaZWtLkITLjkn_P55zhBgiTlZ84-EEL76x7_rM_X6JhGOUEV6zMewlawp3H05uwuYjNEhFSUdBUkte88eBzEQjYUhtFVCI-IiDF2d7tLYZJkouYtlH2i0x=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118">
<p align="center"> <font size="7">QUESTIONS</font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5">1. What first sparked the idea for this novel?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">2. Share a blurb!</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">3. Where does the story take place? What are some of your favorite aspects about the setting?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">4. Tell us about your protagonist.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">5. Who (or what) is the antagonist?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">6. What excites you the most about this novel?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">7. Is this going to be a series? Standalone? Something else?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">8. Are you plotting? Pantsing? Plansting?</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">9. Name a few things that makes this story unique.</font></p>
<p align="justify"><font size="5">10. Share a fun “extra” of the story (a song or full playlist, some aesthetics, a collage, a Pinterest board, a map you’ve made, a special theme you’re going to incorporate, ANYTHING you want to share!).</font></p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LnL9AigyLpXtlTTGNtt2zBRf--rVzcSQkJLlTzyAw3Bz7zBsKBTTY8f4EIWYDg_pDeEkAYPE2hd5Ibe4HvDXv0lqJwCu15xFc1dj7v4bsiEThkBINK5LLTXPGOw_HEM2zNj5oS6cBMTgx1DUqfi8YMXZ1QlYlPkNP3RT-_aHPXFovgOSfTELYXsc0dKiJQaa3-smVaT5CJIvRSnka9a7ZuYg0cVrCvY7P5jNF3MT15CCJHed0ypenCiifTYSOBwE-TOtPexhhWGZZqLKmbFDYHE7lEM5-xECR-I2q4SgzZaK8b5WTISU03EIA1fJ6WgjWcqg9ZFtuIw-CNRi4L2ByosIhlzq10OPe8RRguQVqfnBtS3GP5iDC2sVuK6-Z9R7YLpOj0BAkCgH83VbqRjj7P6NeNyvGnbis7m9NC8O0isuzhVPsMImnehZ4Dm1pJQD5lQBbGGjh0dJl44CsqMO_mVs_k047fVwDT_fCnySNG-1hTctsnr_lzEOZV72qLHswi-rVPsbV5xRPspSJkVyllO3kDbOuM1cNJvIiKomdtsKyDZcMRAG4F-hUdj0BIDAuJCaZWtLkITLjkn_P55zhBgiTlZ84-EEL76x7_rM_X6JhGOUEV6zMewlawp3H05uwuYjNEhFSUdBUkte88eBzEQjYUhtFVCI-IiDF2d7tLYZJkouYtlH2i0x=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118">
<p align="center"> <font size="7">SHARE YOUR LINK</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Now for the important bit, ADDING YOUR LINK! Do be sure to use the widget below to link to your post so others can check it out!</strong></p>
<p align="center"><br><!-- start InLinkz script -->
<script type="text/javascript">
document.write('<scr' + 'ipt type="text/javascript" src="https://www.inlinkz.com/cs.php?id=801149&' + new Date().getTime() + '"><\/script>');
</script>
<!-- end InLinkz script --></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Part one of the linkup closes at midnight on October 31st. I’ll be posting part two on the second Monday of November, so stay tuned!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/bPpGfQvY50r1ag_zsX9WA7cWWfijw2Ji5Ub4Ej-Cna9hJFExm4ePZG-_S94aYE5sAa6R2MU4W43oPNe69KMxmBWugo3TtB117c0fM4sZ3sKfOgPtZhE40CBjN4qeX2KkY_7l29UG7puQAv8-OBPaVua6GfsHejFiNbrLEEComzEg_snyLBpVAwMNFUtM4p7opBjSREpkoSHv7Eu9i-kFjM-P3gg4km0PTHdfL49DhIw1UNIq1dHSm1hzm-Drk97uL8yb43W5pkmsHecKMxzXzYJk_Ne0KOuOA9cYH0vmgGJqeFaZ24P17bnxCCyzu7sW9NQ-V8F6ouWA-t3xJkB3q-Z5dJIR0rzlrgwMk-HFIfLtiYPcP611vD61j7bEe4Fap7gt3BB-N2e0oUd88SeGShbd3X2xaHwBDTNTZ6euJI8OnWGenc7-idEBBABBwJb_zFQEwHzVmKOpxxq-0TFReHKLcyvr2YAwORWywLSk0tfrE7pSlxsBcaWTrrYjCJc9BkpoK19u1PGHMpmEOo-zppgTtnMme0pf9l7y75fRSUS5pa2S4skKle0K4HEA0h-IBLYFb3zVhQxWClXJ3Y1rrtGyvE7UwXJXxNizSnUr9YPZI_sf4QnVzpvHUipIo-cBwRr9Q1M22xC8oo0PI_E-1HhalS65pOPuuDUV95XRlySXFi7KTVMljxSp=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="105"></p>
<p align="center"><font size="7" face="Clicker Script"><strong>TALK WITH ME!</strong></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"></font><font size="5">What do you think, dear writers? I believe this is gonna be a ton of fun! <font size="3">(I’ll be answering these questions myself later this month. Hehehe.)</font> Don’t forget to add your link above. I can’t wait to hear about everyone’s lovely WIPs!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4139091376044743904.post-18422017936755153702018-10-01T10:06:00.001-05:002018-10-07T13:19:12.161-05:00Burning Thorns: Snippets + A Call for Beta-Readers [Closed]<font size="4">
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XUHDi7bC1SmFf1zH96R2LkTnJSeLUmdTpmYq19WnejZKP7wU_vc6iJLJPGPCkmAj5hIu8xgRT56d4Fo0Wjg2QmJMhM5gm0-UQ8WXZL0KEKiDkhCHV0Q_zmzvAzc4aKdfIEJtw58sJbeFykaAFaYYsf-HLx584hVsDLYcDtN7dNXA4ITYAoSBCLKa6Dn-YuvAn0SK1rJbSHXy9Gw2YvWZUFmWLTT6IQKfbScPOR4GsP0I1CTX-BE2vcWATSP58RIZy8-QyQxPmzNNxZi7nw68_HiDdsH6O0uRQDSnwGMmZtT1Uj1o2s1mrtch8lSRBsRg-Xah2HpolVkJCK7Jf9KLNmupA5xLkyDvurnaLahy4WRIAo0Fz0fUF2dCslVVJC6aV5P8Ln-vb3nXAfdMjqVpbMIXN6psB14AZspLzmjiVMkX5r-d_XqEnyPG6v6gRN5f7kk5dkKIB8SiZtfWWQ9lFD0xVeWiUkjk0UoVCUidU21uwh-Fz-sk1S49VQrcbMDu2KK-PjQe1SrT8I5EtfYC4xUsH7IjPIKvtkfqYhxEpmhufwremPy3dWTqgqFTjCviht3s2ZU-k2fasGGxdFxleKAO9bWe-UzwzuAseDoABq6GLkH0i1UhjUBStonxr0LNiGPvHCD1M5lVdVVqHI2UI3nZvYcknSz3aHpxgxM63XmZqJ8IKi6ZHz3K=w1221-h915-no" width="600" height="451"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">Happy October!!! Am I the only one in shock it’s already October? Because like…WUT??? But, at the same time, I’M SO EXCITED. The last three months of the year are my faaaave.</font></strong> Between the weather cooling down, NaNoWriMo approaching, and holidays upon us, there is <em>so</em> much excitement to be had during October/November/December.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I am in fact getting geared up to start doing some serious NaNo plotting, and will be talking about all that soon <font size="2">(seriously, get ready, it’s getting that time of year where all the talk around here is NaNo #sorrynotsorry)</font>. BUT, I’m also still doing some finishing touches to the very thing I’ve been pouring basically <em>all</em> my time and energy into this year. You guessed it…</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">BURNING THORNS.</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>I feel like at the point you all groan at the mention of that story, since I’ve been talking about it for literally <em>years</em> now. Buuut hopefully you’re not <em>too</em> tired of it??? <strong>Because today I’ve got an exciting announcement</strong> <font size="2">(which you all already know what is if you read the title of this post and paid attention to the giant banner above but we’re pretending that’s not there for dramatic effect).</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>*drumroll*</p>
<p align="center"><br><strong><font size="6">I’m looking for beta-readers!!!</font></strong></p>
<p align="justify"><br>After doing a major edit to it earlier this year, and then some more polishing and tweaks just this last month, I am officially ready for others to look at it!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/iKmnzM6t1ALOcTotkZxw5plju-y_qoIccGKR1_UQUoYGLY-ELDx6n0trM5JgI7pq1AZ1YxmQ7jyvIXswVDHkDscQkCLsfew0BYbmtaIJM3TIA_fSHM74ZEAiheN0poINvzM1L9PNXyLIggK-TdLjSmtHV-LTJpDE6VO2hK8fLqD6kA9sNrGwu1uLwmL9jRaof1rTkAw-Ll9EL0a9Je6U8jP5DAVIeotUAxSNtFJW2ZlmUvquPC-l9LG9KKMNZjmMH_pGsoCJIxKtWMaUONOAbzN7UVMSZawrZ-AkVEEHI6LxqRPsNmxPCIvz2gmjiq_HhzNbo8WmgsJxAigN_m315O8-wH5eSfZxLiByE4D62WmPG7n0D7VtDhbmUZgRct0zfZ4CexzI_yOFnV3AC8WpH1sHUFwhtLf61grNSCvJ1c8Gt6Zy9TKKUY8geL2dGS7IgSm3wP6P55ZkQ1OkfSpmzTEebaPELJ3SachdqEmh0vuP0o3x6NFWXAOBZ3kDOgpGcm30xp7Bqc-CouVNfAR0cJrBq8tdutRKnK7INHCt3AsgnNMeyYjuyUzNjYGB0Z5CcA6dcAynn9zcgV55Y4EKbG0QwRRKo6AVrV4iXDbRLNRfxX8D1GSpRmZ3b3TJze34Jc6wYfZwBcuhDpOI_bh5g6IvmsdwbX1OC-q_nx5Bg4eDrK91w97d0lR5=w641-h352-no" width="450" height="250"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>Buuut before I throw a sign-up form at you, you may want some info to see if you’re interested in investing your precious time into it. Annnd I’m also sharing SNIPPETS.</strong> Because it’s been a while, and I always tend to share snippets after I’ve finished a draft.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VwnZhSZHoJy14iMu3QNRhFim9ML1aeLwHNRYy7psHh_XOR3QIOAtsaByZPIxNly2sg0bumFzpk62p-SiTLwnBFB4i-uej1aq2rPfsahbBJUoJK7_tmYAIz1fN1x6YaSFU1-vbAlBhcjIk-rWuBOsLV-wQ8JZjXSVCRK9oSfGCXCjgAu6E_IjGtyI6i0jo_bQuSvVQRYTn59r5DhaZ6-8rWqAjSBtE73jn2X-7u9shbtIlnEHCP6HQsbUb1RRoov5_SdkoO0PyFpjy1FAOs5OToZc7tLeDwQvKDSvGdBFeiMpsQBW58G59UMwpuLbvTBJq2-wy_jWQrvuk7kcFfjQxEdXsTYRcqwT_KC6A6vc8IQp34gCgg8n0_tr1Wc1uvO5JGf2RxxwmZm9RHXzeEPzj8n6axGHCaaFxBrKI7xS2VO-ru6P0RCT8brmh1i_jQaynTpwQNaNlz_EaZIlCdqhpqjmiaLm4_aFCbmcpY0vZxppANgmIqy6EH5h_O7s_XpOsw5gWnQWR-hhgrCmuRues8L8zCgeUQKuPBpuhtUuq-9l-ZkO9G6u5uCIcqgPPfvLMWHMVgtQBB5-8r67qXijptjHdACYVpiZ8ZqIvn2oXF6xp8PS9J0keGAi1X-AatnnKg8kkTQlruV2nDXgx_yyoWucXez5wJkDxbQ7ekAS9BTHj6bvQ63J5XS3=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"><br><font size="7">BURNING THORNS INFO</font><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VwnZhSZHoJy14iMu3QNRhFim9ML1aeLwHNRYy7psHh_XOR3QIOAtsaByZPIxNly2sg0bumFzpk62p-SiTLwnBFB4i-uej1aq2rPfsahbBJUoJK7_tmYAIz1fN1x6YaSFU1-vbAlBhcjIk-rWuBOsLV-wQ8JZjXSVCRK9oSfGCXCjgAu6E_IjGtyI6i0jo_bQuSvVQRYTn59r5DhaZ6-8rWqAjSBtE73jn2X-7u9shbtIlnEHCP6HQsbUb1RRoov5_SdkoO0PyFpjy1FAOs5OToZc7tLeDwQvKDSvGdBFeiMpsQBW58G59UMwpuLbvTBJq2-wy_jWQrvuk7kcFfjQxEdXsTYRcqwT_KC6A6vc8IQp34gCgg8n0_tr1Wc1uvO5JGf2RxxwmZm9RHXzeEPzj8n6axGHCaaFxBrKI7xS2VO-ru6P0RCT8brmh1i_jQaynTpwQNaNlz_EaZIlCdqhpqjmiaLm4_aFCbmcpY0vZxppANgmIqy6EH5h_O7s_XpOsw5gWnQWR-hhgrCmuRues8L8zCgeUQKuPBpuhtUuq-9l-ZkO9G6u5uCIcqgPPfvLMWHMVgtQBB5-8r67qXijptjHdACYVpiZ8ZqIvn2oXF6xp8PS9J0keGAi1X-AatnnKg8kkTQlruV2nDXgx_yyoWucXez5wJkDxbQ7ekAS9BTHj6bvQ63J5XS3=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/N0w47V_m0ahbtmlJr6n1ZyWCZndqANZq8JUDawjlkYgi4YkjkuT0AgIt2WfJbAcH0Cb5ZHUbJNKROMPgJhG8KFbkxDj9hnRWe7_AWk97N8nlhKLeMTekOQZun2t4DVB4cw812uzo4w_HoFTCm3j8W0DBzR4Zdug3gXpVk27I0ur0pUbZUjdGt_NNn98x1MsPhlWsFxzZtmFyIC9ZN6UVUNH1gajCw9G8x4lv1DzSbi8wi1-M4kS8bFgXPqIR02NgPE2aNIZ3ufgW3lKw90fGN49jtc1z5qkY7tjd2HgdVX84Pc_gbtniU5ky6xKkUVTLckkWnVShttEULAWu7VfLaD3dLhkP8eiTm-cdOLtEdVMgDa90t0T2dca0Y2QCsuvO41bttMU3NehNhVMVEt2nKZLPXkeFhNSmZanBmgOx9JjrVopIt2eHIKspO28eb5VsiJosrHsvWLGysSVDIze6eBxK7x6UrA28DbNJFfjjkvyvShUQUl95L8totVOegr1PT-zfMkRtUPu7KRDhm5QL0LvsMpjCY3AqOwXml055cNrwUTePTJ9OIFcvb-2NwUx_8qKmG3RXfdul4x0WEkIw0hun5HAv2DW-x62PAAWXmyBdA43MrJxnuuRO0OX119wMsnOi4hLo1SPLgEJRyzQk9Bbmcx3hJk_sFEfgAUWwLCEciIr74yi8zBaj=w1200-h444-no" width="600" height="225"></p><font size="6">
<p align="center"><br><font size="7">. . . BLURB . . .</font></font></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><strong>The Dragon’s shadow is spreading, and only a terrible sacrifice can stop it.</strong></p></blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p align="center">Since childhood, Rose has shivered at the tales of a beast known as the Dragon—he who cursed the once beautiful fae world into a land of shadows. But when her sisters’ betrayal sends her fleeing from a slave trader, Rose escapes to the one place no one would dare follow: the Forest, home of these fae.</p>
<p align="center">The stories quickly prove to be far more than myths when Rose is attacked by a horde of dark fae. Thanks to a young masked man, she finds a safe haven inside his enchanted castle surrounded by roses, where candles light themselves, food magically appears in the dining hall, and a kind elven woman is mysteriously trapped in the mirrors.</p>
<p align="center">But who is this quiet man who shrouds himself in robes and masks and lives in such a strange place?</p>
<p align="center">Rose is determined to seek answers and bring joy back to the lonely castle. But her hope of finding a new home has blinded her to the shadows growing under the man’s mask and the truth of the Forest’s curse. And only an unthinkable sacrifice can end it all.</p>
<p align="center"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/71zuiEzl-B3JNRdegl6N3okqrjhLQHFHJB6aC-b1ZytKymIZRPmvHe3nlPAeYtlMySaSUcii1M1w2XhtzyG2_h5SNfEBZFLoM3MG6OAcHil858R6PfzfGiIvkl40BU-pup1K57aUiVSxY-JeqSb5J4qTV7IDEvU4eoANZEwJAxvP5g2F3qEGRtFrQ3pz_WaR5bFhsbjo1OxiT2L1Z_WlKbblymCjRPVJjT6Ec5syIHx8z1OxBuBr9YZrZqkXILeTJDbpBJIJcSgCkq2pg48hMDqLTGwuyEWtcdpfXZzjyn0sxkDhA7opMSlG3IURAKDvn-HtrNgjTxed1TKe--QWLH0xG5GY9z_UqQ4q1AT-MNFPQ_eXnJ0YArFKoISjiSGuJM6Hf0KAJj7fo6NBDbzQt9R8qn9V532YXyw-FSzWQfWP2jS3159b_EvFD-goKja1sC516V8m2SmrX_g7joU9gZv-zaf0Avt_nhFoHlWGcIm1zxM-uDoS_FYoWh2yKx64z39l5V34ICinPdD6aM5e_7ICbrN34kx7GqnS7DWZcu1GrwTDGqzx3jeApoZhX3jdAjrPglwdiDd62UKhZWIcdI_RYy1nNnZ03jjMczQ7chfZx0BDgqqG3hbyJZGzP3MdXSoAlDfbhPVweL-tx78yVtDTcJ0imV32BLbfW1BMRCVL-jq16tRDUIsb=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">Wordcount:</font></strong> 113,500 words <font size="3">(but don’t worry it’s a standalone, with potential for sequels about other characters, but this story it still totally complete on its own)</font></p></blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify"><br><font size="5"><strong>Genre:</strong></font> Young Adult Fantasy, Beauty and the Beast retelling</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong><font size="5">Content:</font></strong> Being a Beauty and the Beast retelling, there’s some romance, but it’s actually not super heavy. Most of the story is more focused on the characters trying to stay alive and break curses and not be eaten by creepy fae and fun stuff like that. With that said, it <em>is</em> rather dark, and there’s sooorta magic in it. There’s not exactly a magical system, but the fae do have otherworldly powers, so if magic is not your thing, you may not like this, which is perfectly fine. But other than a touch of magic and dark creepiness and normal fantasy violence (some blood, sword fights, evil beasts terrorizing people, etc.), it’s all clean.</p></blockquote>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VwnZhSZHoJy14iMu3QNRhFim9ML1aeLwHNRYy7psHh_XOR3QIOAtsaByZPIxNly2sg0bumFzpk62p-SiTLwnBFB4i-uej1aq2rPfsahbBJUoJK7_tmYAIz1fN1x6YaSFU1-vbAlBhcjIk-rWuBOsLV-wQ8JZjXSVCRK9oSfGCXCjgAu6E_IjGtyI6i0jo_bQuSvVQRYTn59r5DhaZ6-8rWqAjSBtE73jn2X-7u9shbtIlnEHCP6HQsbUb1RRoov5_SdkoO0PyFpjy1FAOs5OToZc7tLeDwQvKDSvGdBFeiMpsQBW58G59UMwpuLbvTBJq2-wy_jWQrvuk7kcFfjQxEdXsTYRcqwT_KC6A6vc8IQp34gCgg8n0_tr1Wc1uvO5JGf2RxxwmZm9RHXzeEPzj8n6axGHCaaFxBrKI7xS2VO-ru6P0RCT8brmh1i_jQaynTpwQNaNlz_EaZIlCdqhpqjmiaLm4_aFCbmcpY0vZxppANgmIqy6EH5h_O7s_XpOsw5gWnQWR-hhgrCmuRues8L8zCgeUQKuPBpuhtUuq-9l-ZkO9G6u5uCIcqgPPfvLMWHMVgtQBB5-8r67qXijptjHdACYVpiZ8ZqIvn2oXF6xp8PS9J0keGAi1X-AatnnKg8kkTQlruV2nDXgx_yyoWucXez5wJkDxbQ7ekAS9BTHj6bvQ63J5XS3=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"><br><font size="7">SNIPPETS</font><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VwnZhSZHoJy14iMu3QNRhFim9ML1aeLwHNRYy7psHh_XOR3QIOAtsaByZPIxNly2sg0bumFzpk62p-SiTLwnBFB4i-uej1aq2rPfsahbBJUoJK7_tmYAIz1fN1x6YaSFU1-vbAlBhcjIk-rWuBOsLV-wQ8JZjXSVCRK9oSfGCXCjgAu6E_IjGtyI6i0jo_bQuSvVQRYTn59r5DhaZ6-8rWqAjSBtE73jn2X-7u9shbtIlnEHCP6HQsbUb1RRoov5_SdkoO0PyFpjy1FAOs5OToZc7tLeDwQvKDSvGdBFeiMpsQBW58G59UMwpuLbvTBJq2-wy_jWQrvuk7kcFfjQxEdXsTYRcqwT_KC6A6vc8IQp34gCgg8n0_tr1Wc1uvO5JGf2RxxwmZm9RHXzeEPzj8n6axGHCaaFxBrKI7xS2VO-ru6P0RCT8brmh1i_jQaynTpwQNaNlz_EaZIlCdqhpqjmiaLm4_aFCbmcpY0vZxppANgmIqy6EH5h_O7s_XpOsw5gWnQWR-hhgrCmuRues8L8zCgeUQKuPBpuhtUuq-9l-ZkO9G6u5uCIcqgPPfvLMWHMVgtQBB5-8r67qXijptjHdACYVpiZ8ZqIvn2oXF6xp8PS9J0keGAi1X-AatnnKg8kkTQlruV2nDXgx_yyoWucXez5wJkDxbQ7ekAS9BTHj6bvQ63J5XS3=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"></p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0di-UQTwAD4IAEqVUu-kknVdPgw8DsQhgPFYXucl-BivEJb9ACxVSE90x8swj5IZ8QIfUDYMjhQZhcTN9h60x_LsUrt9kSBgFn6YwylWuZXTLriPzQxi78O6YZbljjHL5dH9TjSKzyLrjU6wXvCes_z3tfBAaRw4iSIQTTRw-Yufd3ECi1U-lAhLfvlnjx7LYUJ_CELQKtzndecNTyCOL9yv-9-Ezx3DACubQYJpstdADux72QBq-jFTE7aTZzhw5lgrqhkenLh8m7MAYNZtezUYfXUGksCdXqlELo9FYS3VvRdScS20rYVIo5acEF17GyzywXZmsjjA90xdLi4Krv5dbB9ZMTYmwr8CrseKEfdDRN7zYjgI9sNV-7HQBE2gfF-TP413IqlYFO6R56PjCuMHssa1j63NZyZ4xokrDN9HKKniuVdVzFZxHX_KM-PNNcUZE01CgfeV8nLojALwTvAins85yiubhO9q4GRnhFuFysvkcC7n95G-UsI5YkcrrJFqaFcDzsHjzfcnvh9Zd_u7EZJT8tIPixNI5aZCdcdOGmpBKKgJxYmrNBMYZq58DwRIIgRZJ5eCBvbc_1J1mJCCVo8h4b57fCB2DsSlAGLofn6YFgSre_fQxm22yhupfGaVJwgSKppj37x8rkfpDd8GspnahQgxEBkbQtZ30eOPoBJEeXyJxLma=s915-no" width="450" height="450"><font size="7"><font size="3">You can find the Pinterest Board <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/lauriloth/storyboard-~-burning-thorns/" target="_blank">HERE</a> for more visuals.</font></font></p></blockquote>
<blockquote><font size="7"><font size="3">
<p align="justify"></font><strong>“</strong></font>Bare feet pattered just behind him, and only a few seconds of silence followed before she spoke again.</p>
<p align="justify">“What is he like?”
<p align="justify">“Who?”
<p align="justify">“The beast that haunts the Forest.”
<p align="justify">Muscles tensing, he ducked his head deeper into the hood. “What do the humans these days say about him?”
<p align="justify">“That the Forest wasn’t always this way. It used to be a happy and bright place, but not long ago a terrible creature took reign over it and spread his shadow, tainting it. The fae fed off his shadow and became the dark, wicked things they are now. Some call the beast a”—her words halted before she whispered the name—“dragon.”
<p align="justify">He clenched and unclenched his fingers. “They’re not far from the mark.”
<p align="center"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I_r-MW0sOhlwwe2XlKLLOSVwiKzVqPHgCiogDzNMYCrXbNY6N_ltIiRR7SotW8n8Yscwz7iZE6CeHe_m86Wo6G9TaXxsyWO1YBDwgJjlQCHbnbMjw3z0IArgZO1SwXVsDtExQLVfzzcCaw1q9uheO5YzqssM6ubRHicV_yGp7pQEWce1t21QnM-Vg1ygbNYTJ5OZ6dT9av1EDJKKYxlFLUhOYsZ9i6Sk7rlWGLzvbtDdjHnifuLyKSkHO02-b2HMxWhB3YARR2w5VPmS4mGGHtML3k79hg1O1h4Ho2Bi18QdrjpHXZ7ipbZnLxFlciLXp4-UBDZZ7UWuc673DepGJ_a7SM1GMDgAHKTZtP-6Qib8HmsD4yhhiJwEKC3CPH7ONIXd6lEnw5RlyLWgoK0Yg7bI_Bs2wFQZx6r7WbXUMxPAmGnsw9e8XtkYMuKGRMS12HRDF_p2atj9JEelK0SxXtjvj0bIal7q0FRlYHtCmiOwJheGkNfhJdqMbjsSiOuSlpVLte_sGOjzqC5SXb4M3ZP25tKWb-92SZvYlFFNvFcmjY7_y1qga0ODvVkH9U-JjV0QV9vtgIufngXfOPca2L8OjBfEHb-rle73AuXRAjXiW70V8vBEabXNVEH2aWVXxwowRzDLKCP7sceoWKLBNtkWW6B8GBlpv9uSRKqEMW0J84RqQfWEJBpO=w1920-h395-no" width="270" height="57">
<p align="justify"><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>He was so pale against his black clothing. Pale hair, pale skin—what little was visible past the half mask. His curly, shaggy hair dropped over his eyes down to the nape of his neck. To her surprise, he hardly appeared much older than her. Really, he could almost be handsome if not for the strange mask covering half his features.</p></blockquote>
<blockquote>
<p align="justify">“Why do you wear it?”
<p align="justify">His body tensed. The gloved hand resting by his plate curled into a fist. “Wear what?”
<p align="justify">“The mask, the gloves. Everything. Why do you cover yourself like that?”
<p align="justify">Like daggers, his eyes shot toward her, freezing her in place. They were an unnatural green. Bright and sharp.
<p align="justify">She swallowed. Why <i>couldn’t</i> she just be quiet for more than half a moment?
<p align="justify">For one heartbeat, his pupils changed shapes—two long dark slits piercing into her very being. But the sight was so fleeting she wondered if she imagined it.
<p align="justify"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I_r-MW0sOhlwwe2XlKLLOSVwiKzVqPHgCiogDzNMYCrXbNY6N_ltIiRR7SotW8n8Yscwz7iZE6CeHe_m86Wo6G9TaXxsyWO1YBDwgJjlQCHbnbMjw3z0IArgZO1SwXVsDtExQLVfzzcCaw1q9uheO5YzqssM6ubRHicV_yGp7pQEWce1t21QnM-Vg1ygbNYTJ5OZ6dT9av1EDJKKYxlFLUhOYsZ9i6Sk7rlWGLzvbtDdjHnifuLyKSkHO02-b2HMxWhB3YARR2w5VPmS4mGGHtML3k79hg1O1h4Ho2Bi18QdrjpHXZ7ipbZnLxFlciLXp4-UBDZZ7UWuc673DepGJ_a7SM1GMDgAHKTZtP-6Qib8HmsD4yhhiJwEKC3CPH7ONIXd6lEnw5RlyLWgoK0Yg7bI_Bs2wFQZx6r7WbXUMxPAmGnsw9e8XtkYMuKGRMS12HRDF_p2atj9JEelK0SxXtjvj0bIal7q0FRlYHtCmiOwJheGkNfhJdqMbjsSiOuSlpVLte_sGOjzqC5SXb4M3ZP25tKWb-92SZvYlFFNvFcmjY7_y1qga0ODvVkH9U-JjV0QV9vtgIufngXfOPca2L8OjBfEHb-rle73AuXRAjXiW70V8vBEabXNVEH2aWVXxwowRzDLKCP7sceoWKLBNtkWW6B8GBlpv9uSRKqEMW0J84RqQfWEJBpO=w1920-h395-no" width="270" height="57">
<p align="justify"><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>The boy’s lips slanted to one side as he eyed Marigold up and down. “Today is proving to be very interesting. Girls are popping up every which-away. Who are you, then?”</p>
<p align="justify">Marigold quieted her wheezing breaths and stilled under his probing gaze, eyes narrowed. “Marigold,” she answered cautiously. “Who do you think <i>you</i> are?”
<p align="justify">“At last, <i>someone</i> is gracious enough to ask. You sister here seemed to have forgotten proper formalities.” He shoved himself from the branch and bowed, one hand spread wide behind his back. “Lark at your service, m’lady.” Once straightened, he pressed two fingers on a branch. Slowly, he raised his hand, and a small crimson flower ascended underneath, as if he were pulling it up from the bark itself. He plucked up the tiny thing and stretched his hand through the branches and thorns toward Marigold. “It’s a pleasure,” he said, every tooth showing in a too-big grin.
<p align="justify">Marigold’s cheeks burned as bright as the red petals, her eyes twice their original size. She tentatively reached for the proffered gift. “How did you do that? And— Wait a moment! How did you know we’re sisters?”
<p align="justify">“Natural talent,” he said, as if that explained everything.
<p align="center"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I_r-MW0sOhlwwe2XlKLLOSVwiKzVqPHgCiogDzNMYCrXbNY6N_ltIiRR7SotW8n8Yscwz7iZE6CeHe_m86Wo6G9TaXxsyWO1YBDwgJjlQCHbnbMjw3z0IArgZO1SwXVsDtExQLVfzzcCaw1q9uheO5YzqssM6ubRHicV_yGp7pQEWce1t21QnM-Vg1ygbNYTJ5OZ6dT9av1EDJKKYxlFLUhOYsZ9i6Sk7rlWGLzvbtDdjHnifuLyKSkHO02-b2HMxWhB3YARR2w5VPmS4mGGHtML3k79hg1O1h4Ho2Bi18QdrjpHXZ7ipbZnLxFlciLXp4-UBDZZ7UWuc673DepGJ_a7SM1GMDgAHKTZtP-6Qib8HmsD4yhhiJwEKC3CPH7ONIXd6lEnw5RlyLWgoK0Yg7bI_Bs2wFQZx6r7WbXUMxPAmGnsw9e8XtkYMuKGRMS12HRDF_p2atj9JEelK0SxXtjvj0bIal7q0FRlYHtCmiOwJheGkNfhJdqMbjsSiOuSlpVLte_sGOjzqC5SXb4M3ZP25tKWb-92SZvYlFFNvFcmjY7_y1qga0ODvVkH9U-JjV0QV9vtgIufngXfOPca2L8OjBfEHb-rle73AuXRAjXiW70V8vBEabXNVEH2aWVXxwowRzDLKCP7sceoWKLBNtkWW6B8GBlpv9uSRKqEMW0J84RqQfWEJBpO=w1920-h395-no" width="270" height="57">
<p align="justify"><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>The Dragon tore through the Forest. Clawed past bushes and trees, hurtled up inclines, pounced over rocks and ruins. He did not know where he was running to, or why he was running at all, but he could not stop. Could not face the destruction behind him.</p>
<p align="justify">Perhaps that was it. Fear. Fear of what he was becoming…had become.
<p align="justify">Murderer.
<p align="center"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I_r-MW0sOhlwwe2XlKLLOSVwiKzVqPHgCiogDzNMYCrXbNY6N_ltIiRR7SotW8n8Yscwz7iZE6CeHe_m86Wo6G9TaXxsyWO1YBDwgJjlQCHbnbMjw3z0IArgZO1SwXVsDtExQLVfzzcCaw1q9uheO5YzqssM6ubRHicV_yGp7pQEWce1t21QnM-Vg1ygbNYTJ5OZ6dT9av1EDJKKYxlFLUhOYsZ9i6Sk7rlWGLzvbtDdjHnifuLyKSkHO02-b2HMxWhB3YARR2w5VPmS4mGGHtML3k79hg1O1h4Ho2Bi18QdrjpHXZ7ipbZnLxFlciLXp4-UBDZZ7UWuc673DepGJ_a7SM1GMDgAHKTZtP-6Qib8HmsD4yhhiJwEKC3CPH7ONIXd6lEnw5RlyLWgoK0Yg7bI_Bs2wFQZx6r7WbXUMxPAmGnsw9e8XtkYMuKGRMS12HRDF_p2atj9JEelK0SxXtjvj0bIal7q0FRlYHtCmiOwJheGkNfhJdqMbjsSiOuSlpVLte_sGOjzqC5SXb4M3ZP25tKWb-92SZvYlFFNvFcmjY7_y1qga0ODvVkH9U-JjV0QV9vtgIufngXfOPca2L8OjBfEHb-rle73AuXRAjXiW70V8vBEabXNVEH2aWVXxwowRzDLKCP7sceoWKLBNtkWW6B8GBlpv9uSRKqEMW0J84RqQfWEJBpO=w1920-h395-no" width="270" height="57">
<p align="justify"><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font>Cacophonic shrieks exploded from the darkness. Rose snagged Father’s arm, clinging to his sleeve. A heavy thump snapped her attention to the window where dark, leathery faces and black eyes peered at her from the outside. The dark fae crawled along the windows, their grotesque shadows dancing across the floor and walls. Winged beasts hurled into the panes over and over. Talons screeched along the glass. Fairies with tattered wings and fingernails mutated to pointed claws, nymphs with shadows wisping around their emaciated forms, sprites who seemed to pull the darkness around their bodies instead of illuminate light. So many creatures consumed in darkness.</p>
<p align="justify">And then their whispers came, and Rose’s blood turned cold.
<p align="justify">“<i>She is ours.”</i>
<p align="justify">“<i>Give her to us.”</i>
<p align="justify">“<i>Ours. Ours!”</i></p><em>
<p align="center"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I_r-MW0sOhlwwe2XlKLLOSVwiKzVqPHgCiogDzNMYCrXbNY6N_ltIiRR7SotW8n8Yscwz7iZE6CeHe_m86Wo6G9TaXxsyWO1YBDwgJjlQCHbnbMjw3z0IArgZO1SwXVsDtExQLVfzzcCaw1q9uheO5YzqssM6ubRHicV_yGp7pQEWce1t21QnM-Vg1ygbNYTJ5OZ6dT9av1EDJKKYxlFLUhOYsZ9i6Sk7rlWGLzvbtDdjHnifuLyKSkHO02-b2HMxWhB3YARR2w5VPmS4mGGHtML3k79hg1O1h4Ho2Bi18QdrjpHXZ7ipbZnLxFlciLXp4-UBDZZ7UWuc673DepGJ_a7SM1GMDgAHKTZtP-6Qib8HmsD4yhhiJwEKC3CPH7ONIXd6lEnw5RlyLWgoK0Yg7bI_Bs2wFQZx6r7WbXUMxPAmGnsw9e8XtkYMuKGRMS12HRDF_p2atj9JEelK0SxXtjvj0bIal7q0FRlYHtCmiOwJheGkNfhJdqMbjsSiOuSlpVLte_sGOjzqC5SXb4M3ZP25tKWb-92SZvYlFFNvFcmjY7_y1qga0ODvVkH9U-JjV0QV9vtgIufngXfOPca2L8OjBfEHb-rle73AuXRAjXiW70V8vBEabXNVEH2aWVXxwowRzDLKCP7sceoWKLBNtkWW6B8GBlpv9uSRKqEMW0J84RqQfWEJBpO=w1920-h395-no" width="270" height="57">
<p align="justify"></em><font size="7"><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font><font size="4">With</font></font> new resolve coursing through her bloodstream and energizing her from the inside out, Rose backed away from the door. “I’m going to make everything right, Dragon.”</p>
<p align="justify">“Rose…” His voice wavered with fear. “What are you planning on doing?”
<p align="justify">“I’m going to find Lystraea.” What she did after that needn’t be voiced, not yet. “Although…I don’t actually know the way home.”
<p align="justify">A pause, and then, “Head straight north from the castle, it’ll take you to the Forest border into Cantrelle.” Was that amusement in his tone?
<p align="justify">She couldn’t help smiling. “Will you escort me there?”
<p align="justify">“I’m sorry, I can’t.”
<p align="justify">“Please, Dragon. Why won’t you come out?”
<p align="justify">“I don’t want to put you in danger.”
<p align="center"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I_r-MW0sOhlwwe2XlKLLOSVwiKzVqPHgCiogDzNMYCrXbNY6N_ltIiRR7SotW8n8Yscwz7iZE6CeHe_m86Wo6G9TaXxsyWO1YBDwgJjlQCHbnbMjw3z0IArgZO1SwXVsDtExQLVfzzcCaw1q9uheO5YzqssM6ubRHicV_yGp7pQEWce1t21QnM-Vg1ygbNYTJ5OZ6dT9av1EDJKKYxlFLUhOYsZ9i6Sk7rlWGLzvbtDdjHnifuLyKSkHO02-b2HMxWhB3YARR2w5VPmS4mGGHtML3k79hg1O1h4Ho2Bi18QdrjpHXZ7ipbZnLxFlciLXp4-UBDZZ7UWuc673DepGJ_a7SM1GMDgAHKTZtP-6Qib8HmsD4yhhiJwEKC3CPH7ONIXd6lEnw5RlyLWgoK0Yg7bI_Bs2wFQZx6r7WbXUMxPAmGnsw9e8XtkYMuKGRMS12HRDF_p2atj9JEelK0SxXtjvj0bIal7q0FRlYHtCmiOwJheGkNfhJdqMbjsSiOuSlpVLte_sGOjzqC5SXb4M3ZP25tKWb-92SZvYlFFNvFcmjY7_y1qga0ODvVkH9U-JjV0QV9vtgIufngXfOPca2L8OjBfEHb-rle73AuXRAjXiW70V8vBEabXNVEH2aWVXxwowRzDLKCP7sceoWKLBNtkWW6B8GBlpv9uSRKqEMW0J84RqQfWEJBpO=w1920-h395-no" width="270" height="57">
<p align="justify"><font size="7"><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font></font>Have you come to kill us, girlie?” a nymph hissed.</p>
<p align="justify">The Dragon’s smile fell away. He crouched low, snarling. Rose’s back was to him, making it impossible to see her expression, but her shoulders rose and fell with heavy breaths. The fae shifted, murder gleaming in their eyes. The Dragon dug his boots into the earth. A deadly silence filled the air.
<p align="justify">“No.” That single word, spoken so softly yet with such assuredness, snapped away all the tension. “No,” Rose repeated, louder now, straightening her shoulders, standing a little taller. “Enough with the killing. Enough fighting and murdering and darkness—it has to end.” She held up the dagger, stirring the creatures again, but then she hurled the weapon away, where it disappeared in the shadow of the Forest. “I am not here to harm you. I want to <i>help. </i>But you have to help as well.”
<p align="center"> </p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I_r-MW0sOhlwwe2XlKLLOSVwiKzVqPHgCiogDzNMYCrXbNY6N_ltIiRR7SotW8n8Yscwz7iZE6CeHe_m86Wo6G9TaXxsyWO1YBDwgJjlQCHbnbMjw3z0IArgZO1SwXVsDtExQLVfzzcCaw1q9uheO5YzqssM6ubRHicV_yGp7pQEWce1t21QnM-Vg1ygbNYTJ5OZ6dT9av1EDJKKYxlFLUhOYsZ9i6Sk7rlWGLzvbtDdjHnifuLyKSkHO02-b2HMxWhB3YARR2w5VPmS4mGGHtML3k79hg1O1h4Ho2Bi18QdrjpHXZ7ipbZnLxFlciLXp4-UBDZZ7UWuc673DepGJ_a7SM1GMDgAHKTZtP-6Qib8HmsD4yhhiJwEKC3CPH7ONIXd6lEnw5RlyLWgoK0Yg7bI_Bs2wFQZx6r7WbXUMxPAmGnsw9e8XtkYMuKGRMS12HRDF_p2atj9JEelK0SxXtjvj0bIal7q0FRlYHtCmiOwJheGkNfhJdqMbjsSiOuSlpVLte_sGOjzqC5SXb4M3ZP25tKWb-92SZvYlFFNvFcmjY7_y1qga0ODvVkH9U-JjV0QV9vtgIufngXfOPca2L8OjBfEHb-rle73AuXRAjXiW70V8vBEabXNVEH2aWVXxwowRzDLKCP7sceoWKLBNtkWW6B8GBlpv9uSRKqEMW0J84RqQfWEJBpO=w1920-h395-no" width="270" height="57">
<p align="justify"><font size="7"><font size="7"><strong>“</strong></font></font>No matter what she did, the darkness always won. Where was the light? Where was hope?</p>
<p align="justify">“Stop!” she cried again, but her own sob and the dark fae’s shrieks drowned out her futile plea. The agonized screams of the men had stopped, and when the dark fae parted, her defenders’ bodies lay dead at her feet. She threw a hand over her mouth, the tears spilling over her fingers. “No…”
<p align="justify">The dark fae turned to her, hunger oozing from their eyes.
<p align="justify">With shuddering breaths, she pulled her hand down, bated her tears, and looked to each of them. “Take me. Just do it. Finish this.”<br></p></blockquote>
<p><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I_r-MW0sOhlwwe2XlKLLOSVwiKzVqPHgCiogDzNMYCrXbNY6N_ltIiRR7SotW8n8Yscwz7iZE6CeHe_m86Wo6G9TaXxsyWO1YBDwgJjlQCHbnbMjw3z0IArgZO1SwXVsDtExQLVfzzcCaw1q9uheO5YzqssM6ubRHicV_yGp7pQEWce1t21QnM-Vg1ygbNYTJ5OZ6dT9av1EDJKKYxlFLUhOYsZ9i6Sk7rlWGLzvbtDdjHnifuLyKSkHO02-b2HMxWhB3YARR2w5VPmS4mGGHtML3k79hg1O1h4Ho2Bi18QdrjpHXZ7ipbZnLxFlciLXp4-UBDZZ7UWuc673DepGJ_a7SM1GMDgAHKTZtP-6Qib8HmsD4yhhiJwEKC3CPH7ONIXd6lEnw5RlyLWgoK0Yg7bI_Bs2wFQZx6r7WbXUMxPAmGnsw9e8XtkYMuKGRMS12HRDF_p2atj9JEelK0SxXtjvj0bIal7q0FRlYHtCmiOwJheGkNfhJdqMbjsSiOuSlpVLte_sGOjzqC5SXb4M3ZP25tKWb-92SZvYlFFNvFcmjY7_y1qga0ODvVkH9U-JjV0QV9vtgIufngXfOPca2L8OjBfEHb-rle73AuXRAjXiW70V8vBEabXNVEH2aWVXxwowRzDLKCP7sceoWKLBNtkWW6B8GBlpv9uSRKqEMW0J84RqQfWEJBpO=w1920-h395-no" width="270" height="57"> </p>
<p><br>Erm, yes, there’s lots of drama. Just how I like my stories. Bwahahaha. Though there <em>is</em> some lighthearted moments and a touch of snark <font size="3">(namely from a certain Lark *cough, cough*)</font> in between the feels.
<p> <p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VwnZhSZHoJy14iMu3QNRhFim9ML1aeLwHNRYy7psHh_XOR3QIOAtsaByZPIxNly2sg0bumFzpk62p-SiTLwnBFB4i-uej1aq2rPfsahbBJUoJK7_tmYAIz1fN1x6YaSFU1-vbAlBhcjIk-rWuBOsLV-wQ8JZjXSVCRK9oSfGCXCjgAu6E_IjGtyI6i0jo_bQuSvVQRYTn59r5DhaZ6-8rWqAjSBtE73jn2X-7u9shbtIlnEHCP6HQsbUb1RRoov5_SdkoO0PyFpjy1FAOs5OToZc7tLeDwQvKDSvGdBFeiMpsQBW58G59UMwpuLbvTBJq2-wy_jWQrvuk7kcFfjQxEdXsTYRcqwT_KC6A6vc8IQp34gCgg8n0_tr1Wc1uvO5JGf2RxxwmZm9RHXzeEPzj8n6axGHCaaFxBrKI7xS2VO-ru6P0RCT8brmh1i_jQaynTpwQNaNlz_EaZIlCdqhpqjmiaLm4_aFCbmcpY0vZxppANgmIqy6EH5h_O7s_XpOsw5gWnQWR-hhgrCmuRues8L8zCgeUQKuPBpuhtUuq-9l-ZkO9G6u5uCIcqgPPfvLMWHMVgtQBB5-8r67qXijptjHdACYVpiZ8ZqIvn2oXF6xp8PS9J0keGAi1X-AatnnKg8kkTQlruV2nDXgx_yyoWucXez5wJkDxbQ7ekAS9BTHj6bvQ63J5XS3=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101"><br><font size="7">BETA-READING INFO<br></font><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VwnZhSZHoJy14iMu3QNRhFim9ML1aeLwHNRYy7psHh_XOR3QIOAtsaByZPIxNly2sg0bumFzpk62p-SiTLwnBFB4i-uej1aq2rPfsahbBJUoJK7_tmYAIz1fN1x6YaSFU1-vbAlBhcjIk-rWuBOsLV-wQ8JZjXSVCRK9oSfGCXCjgAu6E_IjGtyI6i0jo_bQuSvVQRYTn59r5DhaZ6-8rWqAjSBtE73jn2X-7u9shbtIlnEHCP6HQsbUb1RRoov5_SdkoO0PyFpjy1FAOs5OToZc7tLeDwQvKDSvGdBFeiMpsQBW58G59UMwpuLbvTBJq2-wy_jWQrvuk7kcFfjQxEdXsTYRcqwT_KC6A6vc8IQp34gCgg8n0_tr1Wc1uvO5JGf2RxxwmZm9RHXzeEPzj8n6axGHCaaFxBrKI7xS2VO-ru6P0RCT8brmh1i_jQaynTpwQNaNlz_EaZIlCdqhpqjmiaLm4_aFCbmcpY0vZxppANgmIqy6EH5h_O7s_XpOsw5gWnQWR-hhgrCmuRues8L8zCgeUQKuPBpuhtUuq-9l-ZkO9G6u5uCIcqgPPfvLMWHMVgtQBB5-8r67qXijptjHdACYVpiZ8ZqIvn2oXF6xp8PS9J0keGAi1X-AatnnKg8kkTQlruV2nDXgx_yyoWucXez5wJkDxbQ7ekAS9BTHj6bvQ63J5XS3=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101">
<p align="justify"><br>Okey doke, to the technical stuff now that I’ve given you a taste of what you’re signing up for.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>As mentioned, Burning Thorns is a project I’ve been working on for a long, <em>long</em> time. It’s on its 3rd (4th-ish?) draft. I did in fact have a group of beta-readers for it a couple of years back, and have since incorporated all their amazing suggestions and have done a ton of work on it since. <strong>But because I’ve done quite a few changes, I would absolutely love for it to be swept over once more by a group of eyes that <em>aren’t</em> mine.</strong> I need some fresh brains on this thing! <font size="2">(That sounded creepy…)</font> BUT if you already beta-read it and want to do it again PLEASE DO. I LOVE YOU GUYS!!! And would be totally honored. <strong>But nooo pressure on <em>anybody</em>, former beta-readers or not.</strong> These days I very, very rarely take on beta-reading projects myself. I just can’t seem to find the time. <strong>I know it’s quite an undertaking, so only sign-up if you really want to.</strong> Okay? Okay!</p>
<p align="justify"><br>I will actually prooobably be querying this project while you guys are reading it, which may be weird. But, like I said, it’s gone through many edits and beta-readers before, I feel mostly ready to start (fiiinally) searching for a literary agent with it. But still, I’d love to have some people look at this newest draft and gather opinions!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/71zuiEzl-B3JNRdegl6N3okqrjhLQHFHJB6aC-b1ZytKymIZRPmvHe3nlPAeYtlMySaSUcii1M1w2XhtzyG2_h5SNfEBZFLoM3MG6OAcHil858R6PfzfGiIvkl40BU-pup1K57aUiVSxY-JeqSb5J4qTV7IDEvU4eoANZEwJAxvP5g2F3qEGRtFrQ3pz_WaR5bFhsbjo1OxiT2L1Z_WlKbblymCjRPVJjT6Ec5syIHx8z1OxBuBr9YZrZqkXILeTJDbpBJIJcSgCkq2pg48hMDqLTGwuyEWtcdpfXZzjyn0sxkDhA7opMSlG3IURAKDvn-HtrNgjTxed1TKe--QWLH0xG5GY9z_UqQ4q1AT-MNFPQ_eXnJ0YArFKoISjiSGuJM6Hf0KAJj7fo6NBDbzQt9R8qn9V532YXyw-FSzWQfWP2jS3159b_EvFD-goKja1sC516V8m2SmrX_g7joU9gZv-zaf0Avt_nhFoHlWGcIm1zxM-uDoS_FYoWh2yKx64z39l5V34ICinPdD6aM5e_7ICbrN34kx7GqnS7DWZcu1GrwTDGqzx3jeApoZhX3jdAjrPglwdiDd62UKhZWIcdI_RYy1nNnZ03jjMczQ7chfZx0BDgqqG3hbyJZGzP3MdXSoAlDfbhPVweL-tx78yVtDTcJ0imV32BLbfW1BMRCVL-jq16tRDUIsb=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">TYPES OF CRITIQUES<br>I’M LOOKING FOR</font> </p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Typo Sweeps:</font></strong> I’m the #TypoQueen over here, and though I’ve combed through it multiple times, I would not be the least bit surprised if I’ve missed a few.</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Grammatical Errors:</font></strong> Guys, I still get proper uses of lay and lie confused, IT’S BAD. So yeah, if you’re good at grammar, I NEED YOU.</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">Line Editing: </font></strong>Sentence structures off? Wording choices weird? Paragraphs strangely placed? You noticed I used the word “just” 347 times? I want ALL suggestions!</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><font size="5"><strong>Major Thoughts:</strong></font> Gaping plot holes, awkward character arcs, unbelievability factors, literally ANYTHING you find wrong with the story, I want to hear about it!</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><font size="5"><strong>Minor Thoughts: </strong></font>A chapter that feels unemotional, a paragraph that should be cut and changed, some dialogue that seems out of characters, all those little things.</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<ul>
<li>
<div align="justify"><strong><font size="5">ANYTHING:</font></strong> Basically, I love any and all thoughts, so let ‘em loose!</div></li></ul>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>IMPORTANT NOTE:</strong> This does NOT mean every single beta-reader has to do ALL these things. If just one of these are your specialty, I’d love to have you! <strong>Basically what I’m saying is I’m looking for <em>all</em> things in my beta-readers.</strong> Finding typos aids me just as much as pointing out plot holes. It’s ALL helpful in making my story the best it can be. But I do ask for <em>honest</em> input. Trust me, I <em>live</em> off critiques. I crave them. How else can I write a good story after all? You will <em>not</em> hurt my feelings. It helps me so, so much when my readers are honest with me. <strong>So my one requirement is DON’T HOLD BACK.</strong> If you see something off, TELL ME!</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/71zuiEzl-B3JNRdegl6N3okqrjhLQHFHJB6aC-b1ZytKymIZRPmvHe3nlPAeYtlMySaSUcii1M1w2XhtzyG2_h5SNfEBZFLoM3MG6OAcHil858R6PfzfGiIvkl40BU-pup1K57aUiVSxY-JeqSb5J4qTV7IDEvU4eoANZEwJAxvP5g2F3qEGRtFrQ3pz_WaR5bFhsbjo1OxiT2L1Z_WlKbblymCjRPVJjT6Ec5syIHx8z1OxBuBr9YZrZqkXILeTJDbpBJIJcSgCkq2pg48hMDqLTGwuyEWtcdpfXZzjyn0sxkDhA7opMSlG3IURAKDvn-HtrNgjTxed1TKe--QWLH0xG5GY9z_UqQ4q1AT-MNFPQ_eXnJ0YArFKoISjiSGuJM6Hf0KAJj7fo6NBDbzQt9R8qn9V532YXyw-FSzWQfWP2jS3159b_EvFD-goKja1sC516V8m2SmrX_g7joU9gZv-zaf0Avt_nhFoHlWGcIm1zxM-uDoS_FYoWh2yKx64z39l5V34ICinPdD6aM5e_7ICbrN34kx7GqnS7DWZcu1GrwTDGqzx3jeApoZhX3jdAjrPglwdiDd62UKhZWIcdI_RYy1nNnZ03jjMczQ7chfZx0BDgqqG3hbyJZGzP3MdXSoAlDfbhPVweL-tx78yVtDTcJ0imV32BLbfW1BMRCVL-jq16tRDUIsb=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">MANUSCRIPT FORMAT</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>The first time I had beta-readers, I sent the book in a Google Docs file that everyone could access and make notes on. I absolutely loved that system, because each person could see the other’s notes and bounce off them <font size="3">(plus we just had a lot of fun chatting there and making inside jokes!)</font>. I’d love to do that again. Though Google Docs can get laggy when it’s filled up with lots of comments, so I've split the story up into 5 separate Google Docs to avoid that problem.</p>
<p align="justify"><br>With that said, if you don’t like Google Docs, or get distracted with other people’s notes, I can send you the manuscript by itself via a separate Google Docs or PDF or another way (like a .doc file?). It’ll be completely up to you! I’m perfectly fine with whatever you’re most comfortable with.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/71zuiEzl-B3JNRdegl6N3okqrjhLQHFHJB6aC-b1ZytKymIZRPmvHe3nlPAeYtlMySaSUcii1M1w2XhtzyG2_h5SNfEBZFLoM3MG6OAcHil858R6PfzfGiIvkl40BU-pup1K57aUiVSxY-JeqSb5J4qTV7IDEvU4eoANZEwJAxvP5g2F3qEGRtFrQ3pz_WaR5bFhsbjo1OxiT2L1Z_WlKbblymCjRPVJjT6Ec5syIHx8z1OxBuBr9YZrZqkXILeTJDbpBJIJcSgCkq2pg48hMDqLTGwuyEWtcdpfXZzjyn0sxkDhA7opMSlG3IURAKDvn-HtrNgjTxed1TKe--QWLH0xG5GY9z_UqQ4q1AT-MNFPQ_eXnJ0YArFKoISjiSGuJM6Hf0KAJj7fo6NBDbzQt9R8qn9V532YXyw-FSzWQfWP2jS3159b_EvFD-goKja1sC516V8m2SmrX_g7joU9gZv-zaf0Avt_nhFoHlWGcIm1zxM-uDoS_FYoWh2yKx64z39l5V34ICinPdD6aM5e_7ICbrN34kx7GqnS7DWZcu1GrwTDGqzx3jeApoZhX3jdAjrPglwdiDd62UKhZWIcdI_RYy1nNnZ03jjMczQ7chfZx0BDgqqG3hbyJZGzP3MdXSoAlDfbhPVweL-tx78yVtDTcJ0imV32BLbfW1BMRCVL-jq16tRDUIsb=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">DEADLINE</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I’d love to have everyone’s notes back by <font size="5">January 7th, 2019.</font></strong> BUT, I absolutely understand people’s lives are crazy (especially this time of year). So if you can’t manage that, it’s perfectly okay. That’s more a loose deadline since I’ll probably be ready to do more work on the story by the new year. <font size="2">(How are we already talking about 2019???)</font> But, again, if your life gets too hectic and you can’t make that deadline, it’s fine! Just me let me. ^_^</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/71zuiEzl-B3JNRdegl6N3okqrjhLQHFHJB6aC-b1ZytKymIZRPmvHe3nlPAeYtlMySaSUcii1M1w2XhtzyG2_h5SNfEBZFLoM3MG6OAcHil858R6PfzfGiIvkl40BU-pup1K57aUiVSxY-JeqSb5J4qTV7IDEvU4eoANZEwJAxvP5g2F3qEGRtFrQ3pz_WaR5bFhsbjo1OxiT2L1Z_WlKbblymCjRPVJjT6Ec5syIHx8z1OxBuBr9YZrZqkXILeTJDbpBJIJcSgCkq2pg48hMDqLTGwuyEWtcdpfXZzjyn0sxkDhA7opMSlG3IURAKDvn-HtrNgjTxed1TKe--QWLH0xG5GY9z_UqQ4q1AT-MNFPQ_eXnJ0YArFKoISjiSGuJM6Hf0KAJj7fo6NBDbzQt9R8qn9V532YXyw-FSzWQfWP2jS3159b_EvFD-goKja1sC516V8m2SmrX_g7joU9gZv-zaf0Avt_nhFoHlWGcIm1zxM-uDoS_FYoWh2yKx64z39l5V34ICinPdD6aM5e_7ICbrN34kx7GqnS7DWZcu1GrwTDGqzx3jeApoZhX3jdAjrPglwdiDd62UKhZWIcdI_RYy1nNnZ03jjMczQ7chfZx0BDgqqG3hbyJZGzP3MdXSoAlDfbhPVweL-tx78yVtDTcJ0imV32BLbfW1BMRCVL-jq16tRDUIsb=w1920-h405-no" width="550" height="118"><br><font size="7">SIGN-UP SHEET</font></p>
<p align="justify"><br>Alrighty. With all that out of the way, here’s the sign-up sheet! <strong>If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send me an email</strong> <font size="3">(just click the little green envelope in the top right corner of the blog)</font><strong> or ask in the comments.</strong></p>
<p align="justify"><strong></strong> </p>
<p align="justify"><strong><font size="5">EDIT:</font> </strong>Oh my gracious, guys. You blew. me. away. Within just a day I had over 20 people sign up!!! I guess I should have put a cap on how many I’d take. I just did not expect to get this kind of response. I LOVE YOU GUYS AND FEEL SO BLESS AND HONORED!!! I’m closing the form now since I’ve gotten so many people. I don’t want to completely overwhelm myself here. Haha. But if you were just dyyyying to beta-read <em>or</em> you had asked me to beta-read before and I totally forgot to add your name and/or contact you, shoot me an email! Otherwise, I’m not taking anymore on. But just, YOU GUYS. I can’t even begin to express my thanks. Your enthusiasm for my story makes it all worth it. I just…I can’t. LOVE YOU ALL! <333</p>
<p align="center"><br><iframe src="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdnl1Y_97S9WIasT1TheMlQT40QL_tpl2-4Qhwuo2RJjGFxWA/viewform?embedded=true" width="600" height="500" frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0">Loading...</iframe></p>
<p align="justify"><br></p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/VwnZhSZHoJy14iMu3QNRhFim9ML1aeLwHNRYy7psHh_XOR3QIOAtsaByZPIxNly2sg0bumFzpk62p-SiTLwnBFB4i-uej1aq2rPfsahbBJUoJK7_tmYAIz1fN1x6YaSFU1-vbAlBhcjIk-rWuBOsLV-wQ8JZjXSVCRK9oSfGCXCjgAu6E_IjGtyI6i0jo_bQuSvVQRYTn59r5DhaZ6-8rWqAjSBtE73jn2X-7u9shbtIlnEHCP6HQsbUb1RRoov5_SdkoO0PyFpjy1FAOs5OToZc7tLeDwQvKDSvGdBFeiMpsQBW58G59UMwpuLbvTBJq2-wy_jWQrvuk7kcFfjQxEdXsTYRcqwT_KC6A6vc8IQp34gCgg8n0_tr1Wc1uvO5JGf2RxxwmZm9RHXzeEPzj8n6axGHCaaFxBrKI7xS2VO-ru6P0RCT8brmh1i_jQaynTpwQNaNlz_EaZIlCdqhpqjmiaLm4_aFCbmcpY0vZxppANgmIqy6EH5h_O7s_XpOsw5gWnQWR-hhgrCmuRues8L8zCgeUQKuPBpuhtUuq-9l-ZkO9G6u5uCIcqgPPfvLMWHMVgtQBB5-8r67qXijptjHdACYVpiZ8ZqIvn2oXF6xp8PS9J0keGAi1X-AatnnKg8kkTQlruV2nDXgx_yyoWucXez5wJkDxbQ7ekAS9BTHj6bvQ63J5XS3=w1647-h293-no" width="550" height="101">
<p align="justify"><br>Again, there is nooo pressure to be a beta-reader. I know it’s a huge commitment. But for any who did sign up just… THANK YOOOUUU!!!!!</p>
<p align="justify"><br><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/glWuEbENNHmvbNwmvpLnaGEdG9xo-r3G5Hm5k0gCQFEAtB_rbaMVYZFPFGuDynhqT514chHyW-R9J94YTi1P3VLlxGFJPv8d5Vu81LbLxICUScxWuFn6Hr_Hr2NhUMmdO2P4GL5sx3EmfdfcC3ZcRvPucGRR0OcZDpkU9_ywg3hwwMlFdxleuOlQvKIr5w0z7EkwBOyQ4cmss3dM4eWGMdjPYEw-3Ncm49H1t-pCAP1Qk63hLuTFnyt1ud8K8-ZCsmwpFZaYPv9FZvEBQ0he1jjRb8Q-keuC-qhwboQ3lAShy2YrXdD-wK1wj6qJvKam-nuhY3jDL3KbBW93T6knh9LOyPX1efcmq-4yT5_CCrC6rweCemhr6Il0nAV4Ec3wrrXms729udFu1T7dUoNa_u-QGuIRsEha5CCkDtODWBriDtXxUp7rkxtaQNLrYoSJcHi7kyW5IlLlMWgzu0Oig-M0rKqu1z9smkv-yZ2ct5H0nbtl5ql2gFqUCwCiL-Vt029g6_jz3_KvI8-x6oXhwNt_hYc3-Lj7k61BPMvaCcXypxvXfDqg5-9_lqZKPXg9s-nTWtJ4qwTV6BRvs6iJ4moJLwEyqKGtwzVJd5Sv_5bbsoX-EChITICtHq0JGuMGkUniKlGCMNoJHmai6FKJBxJlXYAlF8FKGchM1msfmkJWPQXCehakspWj=w498-h268-no" width="450" height="246"></p>
<p align="justify"><br>It means the world to me that you’re interested in my story and want to help make it the best it can be. You guys are helping my dreams come true, and there aren’t enough words to properly express my thanks.</p>
<p align="justify"><br><strong>I will hopefully be contacting everyone who signed up within a week or two and sending out the manuscript!</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<blockquote>
<p align="center"><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/I_r-MW0sOhlwwe2XlKLLOSVwiKzVqPHgCiogDzNMYCrXbNY6N_ltIiRR7SotW8n8Yscwz7iZE6CeHe_m86Wo6G9TaXxsyWO1YBDwgJjlQCHbnbMjw3z0IArgZO1SwXVsDtExQLVfzzcCaw1q9uheO5YzqssM6ubRHicV_yGp7pQEWce1t21QnM-Vg1ygbNYTJ5OZ6dT9av1EDJKKYxlFLUhOYsZ9i6Sk7rlWGLzvbtDdjHnifuLyKSkHO02-b2HMxWhB3YARR2w5VPmS4mGGHtML3k79hg1O1h4Ho2Bi18QdrjpHXZ7ipbZnLxFlciLXp4-UBDZZ7UWuc673DepGJ_a7SM1GMDgAHKTZtP-6Qib8HmsD4yhhiJwEKC3CPH7ONIXd6lEnw5RlyLWgoK0Yg7bI_Bs2wFQZx6r7WbXUMxPAmGnsw9e8XtkYMuKGRMS12HRDF_p2atj9JEelK0SxXtjvj0bIal7q0FRlYHtCmiOwJheGkNfhJdqMbjsSiOuSlpVLte_sGOjzqC5SXb4M3ZP25tKWb-92SZvYlFFNvFcmjY7_y1qga0ODvVkH9U-JjV0QV9vtgIufngXfOPca2L8OjBfEHb-rle73AuXRAjXiW70V8vBEabXNVEH2aWVXxwowRzDLKCP7sceoWKLBNtkWW6B8GBlpv9uSRKqEMW0J84RqQfWEJBpO=w1920-h395-no" width="500" height="106"><br></font><font size="5">Another huge thanks to all who signed up! Feel free to leave questions in the comments! Also, I know this wasn’t much of a blog post, more like shameless self promo. *sheepish grin* But I DO have something super fun in the works for next week, so stayed tuned!</font></p></blockquote>Christine Smithhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15859881278385314279noreply@blogger.com55