Tag Archives: awesomeness

Author Playlists

Posted in Books, Music by

I got the idea for this post after discovering that Rachel Caine (one of my new favorite authors) wrote out a playlist of the music that got her through Undone.

I honestly don’t pay too much attention to what other authors listen to when writing.  Like, I like making playlists for all my NaNo novels.  And while authors might mention a band or two in the aknowledgements or something, it was the first time I had actually seen an author post a song by song list.  So when Unknown was available for download from the library, the first thing I did was check to see if she had a playlist at the end of the book.  She did, so I’ll have to check it out.

But for now, let’s focus on the Undone playlist.  What’s cool is that all of the songs I’ve heard fit the book really well.  Here are some of the songs, and my thoughts:

  • Life Is Beautiful by Sixx: A.M.  First, I love the name of the band (or what I assume to be the name of the band).  And it’s one of my new favorite songs.
  • Citizen/Soldier by 3 Doors Down.  It’s been forever since I’ve listened to them, but I just love how the song sounds.
  • Give It Up by LCD Soundsystem: This is such a fun song!  It makes me want to dance awkwardly.  And, for some bizarre reason, learn how to play the guitar.
  • Believe by The Bravery.  This is actually a good song to get lost in.  And relax to.
  • Tess Don’t Tell by Ivy.  I love how this song sounds, and I love having it on in the background.  I need to see if she has anything else available so I can check it out.
  • Everybody Got Their Something by Nikka Costa.  Another current favorite that makes me want to sing along.

And I really can’t want to check out some of the ones from Unknown.  I think I even have a few of them, but the thing I like the most is that I’ve discovered a lot of music I’ve never heard before.  And I’ll even have the chance to check out some people I’ve heard of but never actually listened to before.

I’m really fascinated with this, because it’s always interesting to see what music authors listen to, and what music gets them through their novel-writing process.  To see what inspires them or their novels.

I don’t think I’ll be looking for what music authors listen to, but I will be paying more attention to it…if I happen to come across it.  Especially because music and writing go so well together.

Stayed tuned for a Top 10 Tuesday post tomorrow!

Let’s Talk About Pottermore!

Posted in Harry Potter by

So, Chamber Of Secrets is officially open on Pottermore.  Kind of.  Technically, only the first 4 chapters are available, and according to the Pottermore blog, Chamber of Secrets is coming out in 3 installments.  I actually like that they’re releasing the book in sections.  I’m not sure why they are- it is possible remaining chapters are not ready to go- but I’m glad they are.  It’ll be a lot easier to go through it slowly, and maybe I’ll even have Chamber of Secrets in front of me while I’m going through Pottermore.

I was super-excited about Pottermore when I became a beta last summer.  I was really into it, and then got really bored, and pretty much forgot about it until I got the emails talking about the House Cup.  Honestly, once you got through Sorcerer’s Stone and made a few potions, there wasn’t anything to do.  Especially because duelling wasn’t up yet.  And because they kept extending the beta period.

They did add sound, which is a big improvement.  I think that was one of the biggest complaints from, well, everyone.  The artwork is still completely amazing.  The potions still take too long- anywhere from 30 minutes, up to 75 minutes (I think), depending on the potion.  But at least they shortened the times a little.  I hate that I can’t sell potions for galleons or something.  I don’t want to gift them, and if I’m going to spend an hour here and there brewing them, I’d like something besides house points.  I’m surprised they haven’t added more potions, but that could come later.

They added a noticeboard to all the common rooms, which is kinda cool, because it does have very general updates on what’s going on.  Like Chamber of Secrets being partially available, or when the house cup is ending.

Chamber Of Secrets, in 4 chapters, is a lot more interactive than (most of) Sorcerer’s Stone.  You get to de-gnome the garden, you get to use floo powder, and several other things, which is cool.  There is a fair amount of point-and-clicking, which is to be expected.  It’s very old-school J.K.R., but there does seem to be a better balance.

They did have an incentive for the House that won the House Cup- Slytherin got to see Chamber Of Secrets a full day before everyone else.  I like that they’re doing that, because it actually gives people a reason to participate and try to earn house points.

So far, the only new material is about the Malfoys.  I liked getting their backstory, and I’m sure we’ll get more as the series progresses.  I’m not going to spoil it for anyone, but it is pretty interesting.

There is something I’m wondering.  Like, the House Cup is cool and all, but what happens when all 7 books are out?  How are they going to keep it going when people have done everything they’ve wanted to?  More importantly, how are they going to keep people coming back?  As it is, there’s no reason for people to keep going back once they’ve gone through the books, and you can only brew so many potions and duel so many people.  I know I’m getting way ahead of myself here, but still.  What plans do they have for when Deathly Hallows is released?

Anyway, I hope we get to brew polyjuice potion, because that would be awesome.  And I’m sure they have something up their sleeve for the end of the book, when Harry goes into the Chamber Of Secrets.  I bet the Cornish pixies will be interactive.  They have to be, right?

That’s all for Pottermore…at least until the next section is released.

Let’s Hit Shuffle, Shall We?

Posted in Music by

I’m feeling in a particularly random mood, so I decided to hit shuffle and see what comes up.  Unless there’s a song from the last time I did this, in which case I shall skip over it.

  1. Mis Disarray by the Gin Blossoms.  Another Gin Blossoms song?  Cool!  I actually really like this song, and No Chocolate Cake really reminds me of New Miserable experience.  This song is no exception to that.
  2. No Reins by Rascal Flatts.  Country music!  I really like this song.  Actually, I just love pretty much everything they do.  It just speaks to me.
  3. Give It Up by Oliver Boyd And The Remembralls.  Words cannot express how much I LOVE Oliver Boyd And The Remembralls.  It took me a few listens to figure out that it was about Cedric.  Poor Cedric.  But I love how you sort of have to pay attention to the lyrics to get its connection to Harry Potter.
  4. Breath by Michelle Branch.  Maybe iTunes is telling me to listen to Michelle Branch more?  Because this is the second time she’s appeared on this list.  I love this song, and for some reason, I always want to cry when I listen to it.
  5. Hydra Lab from the Captain America: The First Avenger score.  Ignoring the fact that I have never seen Captain America, I really like the score.  While there a few songs that stand out, this isn’t one of them.  It’s still a cool song and all, and I’m slowly becoming a fan of Alan Silvestri.
  6. Me And Emily by Rachel Proctor.  I love this song, and it’s something I listen to every once in a while.  Mostly when I need some cheering up, and no, I have no clue why it does.  I think this is the song she’s most known for, because I have no clue what else she’s done.
  7. Everywhere by Moustache.  Love this song!  Seriously, it is a great song.  I think it’s the music that drew me in, but overall…it’s just amazing.
  8. Ordinary Day by Vanessa Carlton.  Add her to the list of people I had forgotten I even had.  I may have to listen to the 3 songs I have by her again, because it’s been a long time.  It’s definitely one of my favorites…when I remember I have it, of course.
  9. Just A Dream by Carrie Underwood.  Have I mentioned how much I love Carrie Underwood?  Because I do.  I love this song (like how I love pretty much every song on this list.  There’s something sad and yet dramatic about it.
  10. 23 Days by SHeDAISY.  Wow, lots of country music today!  I’m not complaining, mind you, but I kind of forgot I had SHeDAISY on my iPod.  I do like this song, but it’s not one of my favorites by them.

That’s all for today…tomorrow will be another exciting Top 10 Tuesday post!

Olympics!

Posted in TV by

I know I’m deviating from my usual weekly post on music and podcasts.  But.  I need to talk about the Olympics.  They’re almost here!  Seriously, if I could watch the Olympics all day, I would.

Of course, I’m super excited about gymnastics, swimming and diving.  I’ll probably watch trampoline (yes, that is an actual event)  and volleyball.  Maybe equestrian, if I happen to catch it.  And probably track.  No more softball or baseball, which is sad.

I looked over the schedule, and had no idea what athletics was.  Apparently that’s what they’re calling track.  Seriously, you can’t call it track and field?  But the opening and closing ceremonies should be cool.  I doubt they’ll be able to top Bejing’s opening and closing ceremonies, but that is a really tough act to follow.

July 27th to August 12 will be a super fun time.  Plus, the Olympics are a great way to break up the boredom of summer.  And there will actually be something fun to watch.  I’ve never been a huge fan of the winter Olympics, so I don’t watch it to the extent I’ll watch the summer Olympics.

If anyone wants to check out the schedule for the Olympics, or to get your Olympic fix, check out the summer 2012 website.  You can be sure I’ll be talking about the olympics a lot!

Audiobooks!

Posted in Audiobooks by

Today, I’m taking a break from talking about music and podcasts and I’ll be talking audiobooks!

For the longest time, I didn’t like audiobooks.  Something about listening to them bothered me, and I just couldn’t get over the idea of listening to books. But my attitude towards them has changed.  If it means more people are reading, then I’m all for that.  And I listen to podcasts, so why not books?

The couple I’ve listened to had really good narrators, and while I take notes of what I’m thinking, it’s been kind of cool listening them.  I still have a few to get through, but I’m contemplating getting an Audible subscription.  I did get a free audiobook via The History Chicks.

As for buying them, I honestly don’t know if I’ll do that.  Between the library, and possibly audible, I think I’m good on audiobooks for now.  But if I find something I really like, I might end up buying it.  But we shall see, and I’ll definitely keep talking about them as I keep listening to them.

I just can’t believe it took me so long to listen to audiobooks.  Seriously.

Random t.v. thoughts: I watched the Olympic trials for female gymnastics over the weekend, and it was really exciting.  It was so sad to see Nastia fall on bars (twice!) and her fall the second night was so scary!  And it’s sad because bars is like, her event.  It was exciting to see Gabby Douglas and Jordyn Wieber make the team, but not surprising.  But sad to see Nastia not make the team.  It looks like a good team, and I can’t wait until the Olympics start!

Have a lovely Monday!

More Random Music

Posted in Music by

How long has it been since I talked about 90’s music?  I think it’s been a while, but since 90’s music has been on my mind lately, I just need to talk about it.  It’s become a slight obsession lately, and it makes me think of my middle school years, when I actually started listening to something besides country music.  It’s definitely nostalgic, which is kind of weird.  Like, am I really getting to the point where I’m remembering the music I used to listen to and wishing that the 90’s weren’t over?  Apparently so.

So, I also officially LOVE Hank Green!  I got his So Jokes album, and it’s hysterical.  I love Accio Deathly Hallows (The Annotated Version) and his random chats with the listener.  It was hard not to smile, and I definitely had to hold back the laughter at times.

And I really like The Avengers score too.  It makes everything feel so much more epic and dramatic than normal.  Seriously, I need to listen to more movie scores.

And of course, I’ve been listening to podcasts.  One of my current favorites is Authors Are Rockstars, and I just love all the interviews they post.  Maybe I need a few more…

That’s all I can think of for today, so I’ll be back tomorrow with another Top 10 Tuesday!

Random Music Time!

Posted in Music by

I feel like talking about random music I’ve been listening too…mostly wizard rock, but a few other things too.

I haven’t listened to a lot of wizard rock lately, but a few weeks ago, I got a few songs from The Weasel King.  At first, I didn’t realize The Weasel King was a wizard rocker, but once I listened a little more closely, I found that his music was indeed about Harry Potter.  He kind of reminds me of Oliver Boyd And The Remembralls, in that it’s not obvious at first that the music is about Harry Potter.

I also got a couple songs from The Blibbering Humdingers.  Dobby, Bang Your Head is absolutely hysterical, and No Shame In Hufflepuff is pretty funny too.

Speaking of funny, I somehow stumbled across an album by Hank Green, who is the brother of John Green.  John Green, of course, is a YA writer- and I can’t wait until I can finally pick up Waiting For Alaska.  But Hank apparently comes up with random songs, like This Is Not Harry Potter (a great song, by the way, and so true).  I currently have an iTunes giftcard, so I may have to spend part of it on a Hank Green album.

Speaking of iTunes!  I have so many albums on my wishlist that I’m just staring it, figuring out what to buy.  It’s great when I’m tired of my own music collection, and want something new, but then again, it makes it hard to figure out what I’m in the mood for.

Random Thought: Listening to movie scores when doing anything makes that thing seem so much more epic and dramatic.  I don’t have enough movie scores.

So…this is what’s going on music-wise (at least right now).  I’ll be back with other random stuff throughout the week, including a top 10 list tomorrow!

An Obsession With Color

Posted in General, Photos by

Here’s one of my favorite things in the entire world: nail polish.  I love it, and it makes me feel so much more colorful.  I’ve always loved nail polish, and I think it was middle school when my love of my nail polish took off.

I used to wear colors like this:

And now I wear a lot of colors like this.

But I don’t mind sparkles

Or bright colors:

There’s nothing wrong with a sunny/Hufflepuff yellow.  Nothing at all.

Or hot pink.

So, I know looking at pictures of my nail polish collection is probably boring.  Or something.  But sometimes, it’s hard to pick a color.  What color fits my mood?  What color am I tired of wearing?  Should I buy another bottle?  Actually, more nail polish is something I probably don’t need.  But it’s one of the few make-up type things that I just love.

(Don’t get me going about lip gloss.  That would probably be even more boring than talking about nail polish).

There’s just something about picking out the right color at the store.  Or mulling over my color choice for the week.  So many possibilities, and it does add some color to my life.  Why I latched onto nail polish, I don’t know, but there could be worse things, right?

Honestly, I don’t get the whole going to have someone else do them, because it’s so much easier (and probably cheaper) to do it myself.  I guess it’s the whole  someone else is doing it thing?  I have no clue.  But I like doing it myself.

On that note, I want to wish all the mom’s out there a Happy Mother’s Day.

A Good American

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Book: A Good American by Alex George

Book Info: Published by Amy Einhorn Books/Putnam; 400 pages; hardcover

Goodreads Summary: It is 1904. When Frederick and Jette must flee her disapproving mother, where better to go than America, the land of the new? Originally set to board a boat to New York, at the last minute, they take one destined for New Orleans instead (“What’s the difference? They’re both new”), and later find themselves, more by chance than by design, in the small town of Beatrice, Missouri. Not speaking a word of English, they embark on their new life together.

Beatrice is populated with unforgettable characters: a jazz trumpeter from the Big Easy who cooks a mean gumbo, a teenage boy trapped in the body of a giant, a pretty schoolteacher who helps the young men in town learn about a lot more than just music, a minister who believes he has witnessed the Second Coming of Christ, and a malevolent, bicycle-riding dwarf.

A Good American is narrated by Frederick and Jette’s grandson, James, who, in telling his ancestors’ story, comes to realize he doesn’t know his own story at all. From bare-knuckle prizefighting and Prohibition to sweet barbershop harmonies, the Kennedy assassination, and beyond, James’s family is caught up in the sweep of history. Each new generation discovers afresh what it means to be an American. And, in the process, Frederick and Jette’s progeny sometimes discover more about themselves than they had bargained for.

Poignant, funny, and heartbreaking, A Good American is a novel about being an outsider-in your country, in your hometown, and sometimes even in your own family. It is a universal story about our search for home.

I loved this book!  It was really good, and it was well-written.  I loved the story, and George- who is an immigrant himself- does a great job of showing what it was like for Frederick and Jette as they moved to the U.S. from Germany.

I loved that you see several generations over the course of the novel, and how much things change over several generations.  But as much as things changed, they also don’t change very much.

I just got so invested in the characters, and I couldn’t wait to see what happened to them.  And there’s a plot twist that came out of nowhere!  Well, not really out of nowhere, because looking back, there were clues…I just didn’t think anything of them.

I am so glad I read this book- I laughed, I almost cried, and my heart was broken.  It gets a 5 out of 5.

You Won’t Believe This!

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So…I did something last week that I haven’t done in months.

I wrote something other than a blog post!  That’s right, I actually worked on one of my old novels.  I didn’t write much- around 300 words, before I decided I need to re-read it, on account of me not remembering what happened.  This is what happens when you stop working on stuff over the summer.

I will need to re-read it, and all of the other stuff I was working on, because I don’t remember what on earth I was working on or what I wrote.  Making it up as I go along isn’t anything unusual, but a refresher never hurts.

It was very exciting, though, and it was nice to get back to novel writing.  I think I’m going to work on things in very small chunks- only 200 to 300 at any time, because I want to ease my way into it.  I haven’t done any other work on the novel-writing front, but hopefully I’ll get back into it over the next few days.