Friday, June 30, 2017

Friday's Fun and Family Friendly Guest Post How Theatre Saved My Life by Deborah Baldwin

My imagination (and later, theatre specifically) saved my life. When I was a child, my mother was quite ill and consequently to show respect to her, I controlled my emotions. so I didn’t want compound her stress.
I was the youngest in my family. With ten years between me and my next closest sibling, I rarely had anyone to play with or talk to. I depended upon my imagination to comfort me and take me away from loneliness I felt but wouldn’t admit to anyone. I learned how to slap on a smile and pretend everything was good with me.  I was quite a little actress.
When I saw movies, I would act them out and sing very dramatically while sequestering myself upstairs on the east porch of our house. It had no heat and I remember freezing to death for my “art”.
I thought I was crazy, though. I never told my friends about my make believe playing and when I would visit their houses, they never played make believe. So I decided I wasn’t like everyone else. I played make believe until I was twelve.
My father was a physician and my mother was raised in Japan when she was a child. Consequently, her wander lust was difficult to satiate and we traveled to many countries when I was quite young.
If it wasn’t hard enough being the youngest, my world view was very different from my fellow classmates. Just another thing to make me an oddity, at least in my mind.
My mother wasn’t at all supportive of my interest in theatre. She intimated I could end up like Elizabeth Taylor, “She’s been married seven times. Look at her…”Something was mentioned about me ending up on a “casting couch.” I didn’t know what that was, but by my mother’s attitude I knew it must be bad.
Trying to be the good daughter,  I left behind my imagination and became a cheerleader in junior high school. It makes sense if you think about it. That worked for two years and I loved the performing aspect of it.  I was a rotten jumper.  No one taught me how to do a round off or cartwheel, so I taught myself.  But I could yell loudly and lead the crowd in cheers.  At least I could do that!
When I was in high school, I found exactly what I was seeking –the stage! I was cast in my first play as Madame Arcati in “Blithe Spirit”.  Since I had no previous acting experience, but lots experience playing the piano, I notated my script as if I was playing the piano. I used fermatas for pauses and crescendo and decrescendo signs when I wanted to speak louder or softer.
To this day, I grow nostalgic whenever I step backstage. The scent of sawdust, newly painted flats and the warmth of the stage lights are a magical elixir to me. I brush the back of my hand across a velvet grand curtain and immediately I feel I’m home.
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In college, I experienced an epiphany. It was the early 1970’s, and society impressed upon me to hide my negative feelings or only express those feelings most accepted by others. I realized by sharing myself hiding behind a character, I could express  all my feelings and thoughts. I felt accepted universally.
That’s a heady experience which made me come back for more. Nearly forty years later, I’m happily stuck here.
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I became a director for a community theatre production of The Miracle Worker because there was no one else willing to do the job. Ha! I have a leader type personality and directing fit into my life.
I was quite young to take on such a challenging production but I took to it right away. I saw the potential of affecting people through stories that I created in my own manner.
Now, I adore making a statement through words and actions.
As of this writing, I have directed over 250 plays and musicals with adults and children alike.  I chose to direct and act at the community level for most of my career.  It’s not that I don’t enjoy professional theatre.  On the contrary. I’ve appreciated the professional positions in which I have been employed.
It’s just not where my life’s journey has taken me.  I’m always open to work in whatever venue needs me.
I’ve portrayed many beloved roles–Maria in “The Sound of Music”, Marion Paroo in “Music Man”,  Dot in “Cricket on the Hearth”, Penny in “You Can’t Take it With You” and many others. Above all, more than any particular role or any special production, I have learned about myself. 
Theatre saved my life.  It has given me great joy, creative challenges and great friendships (I even met my husband while acting in a show). 
I don’t know where I would be without it.  image

Bio

Deborah is an award winning author, teacher and director.  Recently retired, she taught drama to elementary through high school students for thirty-eight years.  Among many other theatrical experiences, she has directed over 250 plays and musicals with adults and children alike.  Recently, she and her husband of thirty-four years moved from the Colorado Rockies to Kansas to be grandparents to their first grandchild.  When Deborah isn’t writing, reading or cooking she enjoys seeing movies and traveling.  Lastly, she serves as hand maiden to her two quirky cats who really run the show.  

Sunday, June 25, 2017

Sunday Stroll in the Gallery Featuring Kyra Leary and her unique Photography

My name is Kyra Leary and I live visually. I am not a professional photographer. I snap on impulse, capturing whatever pleases my eye or makes my heart skip a beat. In my world, a sunset is a sunset not a “colorful spectacle of light and hope”. It’s a photo and if it’s done right, it needs no description. All my nondescript photography can be viewed at www.kyraleary.com.

In addition to photography, I am the author of the Earth No. 105 series by Ame Terra. The series is a mix of science fiction, dystopian, paranormal romance. In short, a mutt. A lovable mix with something for everyone. Want to see the lovable mix for yourself? Everything Earth No. 105 can be found at https://kyraleary.com/www-whoisleader-com/.

In additional to photography and writing, I enjoy traveling, reading Indie novels, spoiling my son and dog and splurging on expensive wine. Read my "weird and witty" book reviews at https://kyraleary.com/book-reviews/.



Time to enter the Gallery: 












All my photos are free to Indie authors to use as they wish - marketing, promotions, covers or simply for inspiration. A listing of some that might inspire can be found at https://kyraleary.com/photo-listato/ but Indies can request any photo I’ve posted anywhere by shooting me an email at ameterra@comcast.net.

My books are free to anyone who follows my blog simply by emailing ameterra@comcast.net. Shop for my books at https://kyraleary.com/shop/. They are also available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iBooks and ebooks.

Here’s some other places I hang out:


Twitter @LearyKyra

Instagram beckettleary





Sunday, June 18, 2017

Planning My First Book Signing Event

Yesterday I received the details on the Bluegrass Book Bash. What is that? Well, I will happily tell you! It is a book signing event in Corbin Kentucky. Corbin Kentucky is the home of the original Kentucky Fried Chicken and Colonel Sanders. I have convinced one of my daughters to come with and hold my hand during the event. I hope I will not be shaking too much to sign legibly.

I have been asking for those that have attended a book signing event before to give suggestions to make it a success. The response has been great and I am finding my head swirling with ideas. I have a stack of Who's That in the Cat Pajamas? children's books to take with me, I have a few of the Path of the Child the YA book to set out. I also have a copy of the anthology 31 Days of October. I need to plump up those stacks before August. I am also going to be introducing my two tee-shirt designs for the event. Now to get some bookmarks, and flyers made. I want this to go smoothly and be a success. Since it is my first, I will probably do an overkill.


 Let me tell you about my daughters and I planning a fairy party for one of the grandchildren. We decided that stations were needed. A face painting station complete with glitter paints, glitter makeup, and butterfly wing patterns. We created a photo booth with wings, crowns, wands, boas, and other items for the children to hold. There was a fairy dust booth where the children could make bags of fairy dust to take home. This was for a family of about 9 children. It was a great fun day and we laugh about the overkill, but we love the memories. One of the starter parties that we are now known for!

That is exactly how this could go if I am not careful. Everyone that knows me know that when the excitement kicks in, look out! Please share ideas and help me make it the most fun and least terrifying event ever.

Sunday Stroll in the Gallery Featuring Illustrations of Jane Fade Merrick

Ashes of the Phoenix is a contemporary romance which tells about life, love, hate, troubles and music! Meet Fade, a girl who lives a life left on her own, struggling constantly to survive in a society that swallows everyone who doesn’t keep up with its pace; her only company is a kitchen knife and a scar embedded in her leg that reminds her every day of who she is and why she is there. Once, while she’s stealing in a supermarket, she meets Jag, a boy with a disturbing appearance who convinces her to join him in his weird plan: to become the main sponsor of one of the most successful bands of the moment, of which he’s a huge fan, and - apparently - he doesn’t lack the money to do so. She allows herself to be convinced to meet Nef, a typical playboy, who eventually will learn that the world isn’t all at his feet like he thought...

Ashes of the Phoenix contains several illustrations done by the author and other artists, which complete the imaginary world that it tells.







This romance have been published in Italian, currently is getting translate and it will be released in English at the beginning of the new year. Still, you can follow the FB page to know previews, curiosity, participate in surveys and giveaways. https://www.facebook.com/theashesofthephoenix/

Author's bio
Hello! This is Jane Fade Merrick, the author. I use a pen name to keep my identity secret because there's not much to tell about me. I am from Italy and I wanted to make my romance international (it's going to be translated by a professional staff, so don't mind my eventual English mistakes).
I believe in self-publishing. I consider it not a simple “escaping way” for all these people who didn't get a contract in a regular publishing house, but a real conscious way for a writer to make his story available to everyone. For this reason, I tried to write my book in the most perfect way I could. I hope that all the people who chose this way of publishing would do the same.

Friday, June 16, 2017

New concepts by Nancy Quinn as Friday's Fun and Family Friendly Guest Post


We had experienced many new concepts since leaving city life behind and moving out west. Conversations now focused on matters that I never thought would cross my lips—horses, cows, horseshoes, supplements, small farm animals, and wild animals. Weather also was a big topic, as well as how to protect yourself and your homestead from it. We learned about growing fruits and vegetables and, of course, we experimented with various means of dealing with the dreaded varmints, especially the chipmunks and squirrels who regularly threatened them.

The wildlife that lived on my place loved me. Each time they saw a new plant in the yard or in a pot, they assumed the buffet line was open. Deer, chipmunks, squirrels, and rabbits relished every flower I set out. It was so frustrating. They should have been satisfied with the bird seed they raided out of the feeder every day, but no, they were glutinous to a fault.



One particular chipmunk, a rather industrious fellow, climbed inside the long plastic tube of the bird feeder, and ate so much seed, he became too fat to climb out again. I discovered his plight when I went to refill the feeder and saw one eye smashed against the plastic cylinder, blinking at me. I was so startled I nearly dropped the feeder on the ground. I shook it vigorously upside down, trying to get him out, but he barely budged. Kobi stood by, anxiously licking his chops in anticipation. I removed the top from the feeder and gave it one last huge fling. A furry torpedo flew past the dog and plopped to the ground, rolling. As soon as he stopped rolling, he righted himself and scurried to the shelter of a nearby tree. He was too fat to run very fast, and though Kobi pursued him, he managed to dodge safely about and made good his escape. I thought that was the end of it until a few days later I found him again stuck in the feeder. Apparently, he had to lose some weight before he was thin enough to climb back into the tube. Some chipmunks never learn. 



Learn more about Nancy here: 



Wednesday, June 14, 2017

Bedtime Chats: A summer ritual

The end of the school year means the seven-year-old moves into Grandma's bedroom for a few months.  With this summer cottage atmosphere, there are long talks into the night.  Here is tonight's conversation between Sarah and Grandma.

G. Lets go to sleep. We have to get up early.

S. Wait! What's your favorite fruit?

G. Bananas.

S. I knew you were going to say that. Mine are grapes.  What's your second favorite?

G. Grapes are my second favorite. What is your second favorite?

S. Bananas! What's your next favorite fruit?  I hope it isn't that fruit that stinks!

G. What fruit stinks? I think my next favorite fruit is Watermelon.

S. Same.

G. What fruit stinks?

S. I can't think of its name.  What is your least favorite fruit?

G. Limes, they are too sour for me.

S. Same.  Well, actually my least favorite is grapes with ranch.

G. Laughing out loud, eww grapes with ranch?  You've tried that?

S. Laughing louder, Yes! It was the worst. What's your next favorite Fruit?

G. Mango. I love mango.

S. Oh no, Grandma, that's the fruit that stinks.

G. No way! Mangos smell good! But I also love Kiwi.

S. Same.  Wait, what do they look like?

G. Green with little black seeds.

S. Oh yes, I like them but I do not like avocados.

G. You don't like avocados?

S. Or guacomole, it is made from avocados.

G. I love apples, applesauce, and apple butter!

S. Applebutter? What is that?

G. It is a sweet thing your Aunt Casey knows how to make.

S. hmm

G.Goodnight Sarah! I love you!

S. Goodnight Grandma. You know I love you, right?

G. I know you do! You know I love you too, right? Sweet dreams!!

Nodding, Sarah grabs my hand and sleeps holding it until I got back up to write this.

Summers are good.  Much better than grapes with ranch.










Sunday, June 11, 2017

Sunday Stroll in the Gallery Featuring John Macdonald, Photographer Extroidinaire

John Macdonald is a photographer which specializes in the natural beauty of the Upper Michigan area. From scenic buildings to majestic sunsets, he captures the vivid colors of Michigan in his photographs. 
John has provided the link to read his 178 photo book for free at https://storycartel.com/books/a-michigan-photo-presentation-second-editionThe book presents waterfalls, sunsets, Great Lakes ships, Architecture and more all from the state of Michigan.


As you stroll through his photographs, remember that he has over 150 more for your viewing pleasure available.



Welcome to the Gallery: 


Presque Isle sunset, Marquette, Michigan  





Westland, Michigan tulips




Marquette county, Michigan


Beaumont Building Michigan State University


Mackinaw Bridge in December


Marquette Lighthouse



Friday, June 9, 2017

Friday's Fun and Family-Friendly Guest Post Presents Destiny Revealed by Cris Pasqueralle

  A fantasy series that's soon to be a feature film!!!!!

    Twins Jack and Maddie Austin have just turned 13 and have been given a mysterious gift of two necklaces by someone they have never met. The gift comes with a message in the form of a poem, but before any explanation can be given, the twins and their family are attacked by an evil wizard named Tardon. 

    Tardon kidnaps the twins' parents and, led by their Uncle Benny, the twins must travel to an unknown magical realm of wizards, gnomes, and hidden secrets to embark on a rescue mission to save their parents. Along the way, the twins are led on a path of self discovery that takes them on a quest to destiny.


    On the surface, The Destiny trilogy may appear to be another fantasy adventure with teen heroes, and it is, but it is a bit different, our heroes are not alone. The family in this story is very much intact. Mom and Dad offer guidance and a loving hand, there is also a sibling love and rivalry that is explored, and the magical creatures are not your standard fantasy fare. Yes, there are dragons and fairies, but there are also Sasquatch, and Keeluts, and Gici Awas, and Thunderbirds, all taken from Native American folklore.  So if you like your fantasy with a
twist, take a look at The Destiny Trilogy and ride the new wave in fantasy fiction. Available on amazon at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LXRLRBJ

   I have been asked many times what has inspired me and why I choose to write fantasy. First, the inspiration comes from my daughters. it was their love of the Harry Potter books that made me a fantasy fan, and, when that series came to an end, my children clamored for a wizarding story. After much discussion with them, The Destiny Trilogy was born.  I write fantasy fiction because I like the no boundaries approach to writing, and fantasy allows an author to build his own worlds and make up his own rules.  Plus, its a lot of fun.


   
  Author Cris Pasqueralle is a retired NYC Police Officer who lives on Long Island with his wife and two daughters. Cris enjoys writing for a younger audience because he believes that through reading and imagination, kids build a brighter future for themselves and all of us.  Follow Cris on facebook  at www.facebook.com./authorcrispasqueralle


  Keep checking his author page on facebook for news about the up coming film versions of The Destiny Trilogy.
Book 1: Destiny Revealed 
Book 2: Paths of Destiny
Book 3: Quest for Destiny 


Thursday, June 8, 2017

Parents looking for new books and Authors? New group on Facebook and on Goodreads has you covered!

Today there is an active and ready for participation group on both Goodreads and Facebook.  These groups share a common name, Parents, Find Children’s Books and Authors. This is an excellent time to join up and look for new authors, old classics, fun series, and child appealing characters.
books
Let’s start with a few links to show where you can join in the fun.  On Goodreads, you may join the group here.  Now before you think this is just another crazy idea bunny from Vicki, I can assure you we already have over 20 members. They might be quiet now, but you know I will get them talking sooner or later, I am hoping for sooner.
topics of discussion
Facebook is newer and less formed, but it is there ready for occupancy. The paint is a little sticky and the grout is still drying, but we are open for business. So meander on into the Facebook group here.
kidslit
So let’s talk about group plans on both sites.  We see this as a group that can share great books and new soon to be great books with children and their parents.  A chance to meet a few authors, order a signed copy of a book, ask questions of writers, readers, authors, publishers, and all genre specific.
Readers, meet your authors
This is not a spamming site where links will be posted on a daily basis running off readers with their sheer magnitude. There will be a book room where books can be listed, there will be an area for discounts, freebies, and giveaways. There will be an area for new releases.  So come on over to one of the two sites (read join both!) Share your skills in the children’s literature, early reader, chapter books, and child-friendly series.

What we need most at this point is word of mouth and sharing of the links. We are talking full out sharing, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Google +, Reddit, Tumbler, and any other site you have seen parents, readers, and or authors lurking.  Help us make this a fun and totally interactive place for parents, readers, authors, and children at heart. And by all means, if you are a reader, writer, child at heart, then join us! We can’t wait to meet you too!

Sunday, June 4, 2017

Sunday Stroll In the Gallery with Nancy Quinn

Welcome to Sunday Stroll in the Gallery. Our first artist is World known Wildlife Artist, Nancy Quinn. Take a stroll through the gallery and meet Nancy and enjoy a sampling of her amazing art pieces. 



Bio
Nancy has always been interested in art and nature.  She was born in Southfield, Michigan, and later moved to Florida, working her way through college in Jacksonville.  After graduation, she worked in conservation law enforcement as a Duty Officer for the Florida Game and Freshwater Fish Commission.  Her interests in painting and nature eventually led to a career in wildlife art.  Lacking extensive formal training, she believes her artistic ability was an inborn gift from her father, the noted artist Boyd A. Zimmer II.

Early in her career, Nancy was presented with 2nd and 3rd place awards in the World Wildlife Art Championships.  Her work is internationally known and found in galleries, state museums, and private collections.
Education efforts are important to Nancy.  She created T-shirt and jewelry designs for the Florida Wildlife Federation.  

She was commissioned by the State of New Jersey to create the limited edition art print Nature's Legacy.  The print commemorates the centennial celebration of the State's Division of Fish, Game, and Wildlife.  The funds raised from the sale of the prints act as tuition grants for college students interested in biology or conservation law enforcement.
Nancy strives for accuracy and realism in her work and continues to strengthen her commitment to furthering conservation awareness.  After spending over six years in the capital region while her husband served at the Pentagon, Nancy and her family now joyfully reside in rural Montana where she continues to create new works.



Thoughts from my easel,

 I believe art has a purpose other than decorating our walls.  I think it can touch our minds and our hearts.  When I sit down to create art, I think about how best to give an animal or bird a soul and how to foster an emotion on canvas, paper, or precious metal.  If I can have a positive effect in someone's life, then my work has served an important purpose.  I remember a particular story of a woman who lived alone.  She told me of the forlornness she felt each day sitting by herself for every meal.  After she framed and hung up my barn owl limited edition print in her dining room, she noticed how lifelike the image was and so gave it a name.  As time passed she began to talk to it and soon she no longer dreaded mealtime because she felt as though she had some company.   It is a true blessing for me when clients write and tell me how my art has made them or a loved one happy.  Each of their personal stories is remarkable and unique, and their enjoyment keeps me motivated, making my work a pleasure.

Before I create an artwork, I first have to make some kind of a connection with the subject bird or animal.   I prefer to physically handle and study the wildlife prior to painting, drawing, or sculpting it.  I look for its individual personality, as well as what physical and behavioral characteristics are common to its species.  Above all, I want to evoke a feeling and understanding of what is amazing about them in nature. It is challenging work.   I have laughed and enjoyed animal antics and I have also escaped some potentially serious injuries. Working with wild animals is a risk and I handle them carefully with an educated and well thought out plan. Happily, I rarely suffer a boring day and I am always learning something new. 

To experience the call of the natural world one must be silent, so I prefer solitude when I am at my easel.   Through quiet introspection I contemplate the best way to portray the special qualities of each subject, be it the fierce strength, vulnerability, graceful beauty, determination, cunning, or loyalty common to its species.  I hope each time you look into the eyes and study the body language of the animals in my artwork, you will see and feel these emotions.  If so, then I have succeeded in helping you find your own connection to nature through art.  

Enter the Gallery: 

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Blue Bird

Tanger

Watchful Stallion

Wilson

Dance

Serenity






Nancy Quinn
Wildlife Artist and Author