Chapter Four is up at WordPress . . . finally!
Okay, music . . .
I told you about a group called SPEAK a few weeks ago, with a link to "Carrie (Mindful)"
Well, their debut album "I Believe In Everything" is out, (Yeah...go ahead, check it out, and BUY it here) and it's fabulous. If you like synth/electro pop/alternative with tight vocals, bass (on the funky side), drums (WOW) and guitar (VERY versatile!) give them a listen. I really can't say enough of how impressed I am by these guys. They remind me of so many of my all-time favorite bands: the harmonies at times VERY Beach Boys, singer Troupe's alternately growly (Depeche Mode) and soaring (Civil Twilight/Passion Pit) leads, and Nick and Joey - how DO you sing that high, that well, and pull off the chops instrumentally at the same time? All driven by Jake on percussion. (Again...WOW.) Foster the People (funky, edgy, vocal ranges) comes to mind too. I wish them all the luck in the world!
Also . . . Switchfoot:
I've loved this band since the first time I heard "New Way to Be Human" way back in . . . (ahem) . . . the day. Their last album, "Hello Hurricane," is terrific and so far I'm liking the newest, "Vice Verses," but it was WONDERFUL to actually hear them on my local alternative station. It's been a long time!!! That single and my favorite track on that album so far:
Awesome.
More Glister info and chapters at the book's website here: theglisterjournals.com
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Saturday, October 15, 2011
The Ren Faire
This is just a follow up to last weekend's outing:
I arrived with one overwhelming, burning question . . . where is the jousting? Lead me to your horses!
The fields around Casa de Fruta--an oasis in the Central California Hills--had been converted into the likeness of an English village, circa 16th century, and was filled with merchants, artisans, musicians, and merry-makers dressed in varying degrees of period authenticity. There were also a few small boys 'slaying' princesses in ballerina skirts and somebody complaining that someone else's wing had just poked her in the eye.
Apparently this is "Fantasy" theme weekend, but really, I've never seen so many sparkles, tutus, or fairy wings outside of Disneyland (or a very small girl's birthday party). Then there's the goth side too, with the black spiderweb hose and, well, mostly black everything. And wings. *Sigh* But there was plenty of true(ish)-to-history apparel too, and lots of noisy shenanigans all around. I especially loved the young man cantering around pretending to ride a horse, in peasant's clothing and a crown on his head, followed by another cantering peasant clopping coconuts together. Extremely silly and I loved it.
Soon after arriving I found an area that seemed suitable for equestrian maneuvers, but nothing was happening so I continued on my way. The best costume I saw was a man dressed as a tree, very cleverly too. I thought, "He's meant to be a bandit, perhaps from Sherwood." I asked him if this was true and he seemed disappointed that I didn't recognize him as an 'ent.' Apparently my imagination is lacking. But then, I had forgotten that this was "Fantasy" weekend. It was an awesome costume none-the-less.
As usual, I was mostly drawn to the areas where there was music being performed. I was able to get short videos of this, so when I finally get my editing program figured out I'll put them together for you.
One of my favorite vendors was a man selling leather journals. (Gee, I wonder why that caught my attention?) They were lovely, all different sizes, and filled with cotton paper. His website is here: The Journal Guy
Eventually (when The Glister Journals has enough fans) I would like to give one of those as a prize. Allison would love them.
I want to keep this post positive in nature so I am NOT going to mention the food.
By the time I made my way back to the "tournament" area, it was impossible to get close enough to really see anything at all, let alone take any pictures. I hung out for a short while, hoping others might get tired of standing and move, allowing me to inch closer to the action, but it didn't happen. I'll have to remember that next time.
I am still looking for the software that came with my camera so I can download the photos I took (I had lost it before I moved, then found it again, but haven't seen it since. I am still wading through boxes!) When I do, I shall post them and let you know!
More Glister info and chapters at the book's website here: theglisterjournals.com
I arrived with one overwhelming, burning question . . . where is the jousting? Lead me to your horses!
The fields around Casa de Fruta--an oasis in the Central California Hills--had been converted into the likeness of an English village, circa 16th century, and was filled with merchants, artisans, musicians, and merry-makers dressed in varying degrees of period authenticity. There were also a few small boys 'slaying' princesses in ballerina skirts and somebody complaining that someone else's wing had just poked her in the eye.
Apparently this is "Fantasy" theme weekend, but really, I've never seen so many sparkles, tutus, or fairy wings outside of Disneyland (or a very small girl's birthday party). Then there's the goth side too, with the black spiderweb hose and, well, mostly black everything. And wings. *Sigh* But there was plenty of true(ish)-to-history apparel too, and lots of noisy shenanigans all around. I especially loved the young man cantering around pretending to ride a horse, in peasant's clothing and a crown on his head, followed by another cantering peasant clopping coconuts together. Extremely silly and I loved it.
Soon after arriving I found an area that seemed suitable for equestrian maneuvers, but nothing was happening so I continued on my way. The best costume I saw was a man dressed as a tree, very cleverly too. I thought, "He's meant to be a bandit, perhaps from Sherwood." I asked him if this was true and he seemed disappointed that I didn't recognize him as an 'ent.' Apparently my imagination is lacking. But then, I had forgotten that this was "Fantasy" weekend. It was an awesome costume none-the-less.
As usual, I was mostly drawn to the areas where there was music being performed. I was able to get short videos of this, so when I finally get my editing program figured out I'll put them together for you.
One of my favorite vendors was a man selling leather journals. (Gee, I wonder why that caught my attention?) They were lovely, all different sizes, and filled with cotton paper. His website is here: The Journal Guy
Eventually (when The Glister Journals has enough fans) I would like to give one of those as a prize. Allison would love them.
I want to keep this post positive in nature so I am NOT going to mention the food.
By the time I made my way back to the "tournament" area, it was impossible to get close enough to really see anything at all, let alone take any pictures. I hung out for a short while, hoping others might get tired of standing and move, allowing me to inch closer to the action, but it didn't happen. I'll have to remember that next time.
I am still looking for the software that came with my camera so I can download the photos I took (I had lost it before I moved, then found it again, but haven't seen it since. I am still wading through boxes!) When I do, I shall post them and let you know!
More Glister info and chapters at the book's website here: theglisterjournals.com
Sunday, October 9, 2011
A Day Out . . .
I think I need to get out today. You know, just out of the house, clear the cobwebs out, jump in the car and drive, and blast my tunes. I'm going to head over to the Northern California Renaissance Fair (do you always have to check your spelling on that word like me?) I've been to smaller Ren Fairs, but not this one, and none so big.
A friend of mine is going as an assassin. A special assassin. She's going to try to give an apple to the Queen. (Favorite video game reference.) It might prove entertaining. I'll take pics, even try to get decent video (I'm STILL working on sharing that. I don't seem to have any time to work on it. Then again, I guess I could stay home today and work on it, but then I'd have no video. You see the dilemma.)
Meanwhile I have FINALLY got Chapter Three uploaded on my Wordpress blog. Chapter Two needs some revision to reflect any revisions in the book, and Chapter Four will be following. All four chapters are available for reading at theglisterjournals.com. I'll report back on Ren Fair later.
Have a great Sunday!
More Glister info and chapters at the book's website here: theglisterjournals.com
A friend of mine is going as an assassin. A special assassin. She's going to try to give an apple to the Queen. (Favorite video game reference.) It might prove entertaining. I'll take pics, even try to get decent video (I'm STILL working on sharing that. I don't seem to have any time to work on it. Then again, I guess I could stay home today and work on it, but then I'd have no video. You see the dilemma.)
Meanwhile I have FINALLY got Chapter Three uploaded on my Wordpress blog. Chapter Two needs some revision to reflect any revisions in the book, and Chapter Four will be following. All four chapters are available for reading at theglisterjournals.com. I'll report back on Ren Fair later.
Have a great Sunday!
More Glister info and chapters at the book's website here: theglisterjournals.com
Sunday, September 25, 2011
While we're waiting . . .
As the end of September comes hurtling (yes, hurtling!) toward us, I just want to remind everyone that there are TWO books to be won this month. Sign up on either blog (here or on Glistering: B's Blog on Wordpress) OR "like" The Glister Journals on Facebook and LEAVE A COMMENT that you'd like a book, and you'll be entered!
Meanwhile . . .
I had the pleasure of discovering a new band last month (new to me . . . they've actually been around for a while and have a devoted following). My friends and I had gone to see Tally Hall in San Francisco (if you are not familiar with them, look them up on YouTube. They're great too but this post is not about them!) and were WOWed (yes absolutely WOWed) by one of the opening bands: SPEAK.
I actually used my new video camera to record them, but as I didn't know what to expect (I had really planned only to video Tally Hall) I missed the beginning of their songs each time. Plus my hand was shaky and there was a really tall dude in front of me that I kept having to avoid. Anyway, if I ever get my video edited adequately (I'm still learning) and if they give me permission, I'll post some from that concert. But I really want to help spread the word about these guys, especially as they have their first full album finished. I love their sound, their performance was great, and they're just friggan adorable. The album is available September 27 (available on Amazon and elsewhere) and is called "I Believe In Everything."
Enjoy!
Meanwhile . . .
I had the pleasure of discovering a new band last month (new to me . . . they've actually been around for a while and have a devoted following). My friends and I had gone to see Tally Hall in San Francisco (if you are not familiar with them, look them up on YouTube. They're great too but this post is not about them!) and were WOWed (yes absolutely WOWed) by one of the opening bands: SPEAK.
I actually used my new video camera to record them, but as I didn't know what to expect (I had really planned only to video Tally Hall) I missed the beginning of their songs each time. Plus my hand was shaky and there was a really tall dude in front of me that I kept having to avoid. Anyway, if I ever get my video edited adequately (I'm still learning) and if they give me permission, I'll post some from that concert. But I really want to help spread the word about these guys, especially as they have their first full album finished. I love their sound, their performance was great, and they're just friggan adorable. The album is available September 27 (available on Amazon and elsewhere) and is called "I Believe In Everything."
Enjoy!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
September already?!
Where did August go? I moved and my (real) work kicked into full gear. It was a very busy month for me, to be sure, but . . . wow. I hope to have new Glister news to post soon, and there is some random nonsense waiting in the wings as well. Anyway . . .
Congratulations to Mitchell for winning a book in the August giveaway. A couple of errors are being corrected (and the text rechecked) then the book will be on its way. We have one more month - September. Two books are available to win.
The rules of the book giveaway for September are the same:
I am giving away two copies of Bronze. All you have to do is sign up here on my WordPress blog (or on my blog on Blogspot) or "like" The Glister Journals Facebook page, LEAVE A COMMENT stating that you'd like to be entered in the giveaway, and you will be! As simple as that! This is the last month planned for this giveaway, so get your name in now! Good luck!
If you have questions (or comments) about the book or series, I would love to respond, so ask away!
Summer Book Giveaway
More Glister info and chapters at the book's website here: theglisterjournals.com
Glister Journals chapters on Wordpress . . . (Chapters Three and Four will be added soon - no, really this time!)
Congratulations to Mitchell for winning a book in the August giveaway. A couple of errors are being corrected (and the text rechecked) then the book will be on its way. We have one more month - September. Two books are available to win.
The rules of the book giveaway for September are the same:
I am giving away two copies of Bronze. All you have to do is sign up here on my WordPress blog (or on my blog on Blogspot) or "like" The Glister Journals Facebook page, LEAVE A COMMENT stating that you'd like to be entered in the giveaway, and you will be! As simple as that! This is the last month planned for this giveaway, so get your name in now! Good luck!
If you have questions (or comments) about the book or series, I would love to respond, so ask away!
Summer Book Giveaway
More Glister info and chapters at the book's website here: theglisterjournals.com
Glister Journals chapters on Wordpress . . . (Chapters Three and Four will be added soon - no, really this time!)
Monday, August 1, 2011
August Book Giveaway
The Glister Journals info and chapters at the book's website here: theglisterjournals.com
Congratulations to Elizabeth C. and Sang S. for winning copies of Bronze for the July Book Giveaway. I hope you enjoy them!
The rules of the book giveaway for August are the same:
I am giving away two copies of Bronze. All you have to do is sign up here on my Blogspot blog (or on my blog on WordPress) or "like" The Glister Journals Facebook page, LEAVE A COMMENT stating that you'd like to be entered in the giveaway, and you will be! As simple as that! If you don't win, your name will be added into the drawing for the next month. Good luck!
If you have questions (or comments) about the book or series, I would love to respond, so ask away!
Summer Book Giveaway
Glister Journals chapters on Wordpress . . . (Chapters Three and Four will be added soon - really!)
Congratulations to Elizabeth C. and Sang S. for winning copies of Bronze for the July Book Giveaway. I hope you enjoy them!
The rules of the book giveaway for August are the same:
I am giving away two copies of Bronze. All you have to do is sign up here on my Blogspot blog (or on my blog on WordPress) or "like" The Glister Journals Facebook page, LEAVE A COMMENT stating that you'd like to be entered in the giveaway, and you will be! As simple as that! If you don't win, your name will be added into the drawing for the next month. Good luck!
If you have questions (or comments) about the book or series, I would love to respond, so ask away!
Summer Book Giveaway
Glister Journals chapters on Wordpress . . . (Chapters Three and Four will be added soon - really!)
Friday, July 29, 2011
Garlic Watermelon?
Really?
I just saw a lady on the 10 o'clock news eating garlic sprinkled on watermelon. How is it the Garlic Festival always passes me by? I always miss it! I have occasion to drive through Gilroy from time to time - usually on my way from Point A to Point B - but have pit-stopped there frequently too; it's one of those places where everything is right off the freeway (oh, wait - except Starbucks and Peets!).
Don't get me wrong - I actually like Gilroy. It's a lovely area and has good shopping. When I lived on the Central Coast it seemed to be "The Place" to shop - unless you could afford to go to Hong Kong. I've never been able to go to Hong Kong for shopping or anything else, but I wouldn't mind going. Oh wait . . . I was talking about Gilroy . . .
I'm sure you get used to the aroma (is that why there's a town not too far away called Aromas?) I guess the smell loses its potency once you've been there an hour or two shopping, or looking for a coffee shop, but if you're just driving through it sure does a number on you. Especially if you're hungry.
So apparently it's the Garlic Festival all weekend, and I know about it. Now I have to consciously make a decision whether to go or not. Will the lure of garlic watermelon prove irresistible?
I'll let you know . . .
*Edit*
My friend and I thought we'd go check it out, just for a few hours, but the closer we got to where we assumed 'the action' was, the slower the traffic actually moved. Then I remembered I hadn't bothered to find out if there would be an entrance fee. Everything has an entrance fee. I can't even go for a walk in the park anymore without paying a fee. (The fee was $17.00 for the Garlic Festival, apparently)
Then I also remembered there would no doubt be a parking fee too. Last weekend I'd been happy to pay for the Salinas Rodeo, but hadn't thought about parking. It had cost $10.00 to park on a baseball field and it was worth it. But that was for rodeo. This was for garlic! I wasn't so sure $10.00 was reasonable for parking for garlic. I'm not exactly made out of money.
It turns out that parking was free with a shuttle service, which is good to know . . . for next year. Next year - if I go - I will leave much earlier and probably on a Saturday. Judging from the website, it looks like it would be fun, not to mention the food of course. Yes, next year sounds good.
Summer Book Giveaway
More Glister info and chapters here: theglisterjournals.com
Glister Journals chapters on Wordpress . . . (Chapters Three and Four will be added soon.)
I just saw a lady on the 10 o'clock news eating garlic sprinkled on watermelon. How is it the Garlic Festival always passes me by? I always miss it! I have occasion to drive through Gilroy from time to time - usually on my way from Point A to Point B - but have pit-stopped there frequently too; it's one of those places where everything is right off the freeway (oh, wait - except Starbucks and Peets!).
Don't get me wrong - I actually like Gilroy. It's a lovely area and has good shopping. When I lived on the Central Coast it seemed to be "The Place" to shop - unless you could afford to go to Hong Kong. I've never been able to go to Hong Kong for shopping or anything else, but I wouldn't mind going. Oh wait . . . I was talking about Gilroy . . .
I'm sure you get used to the aroma (is that why there's a town not too far away called Aromas?) I guess the smell loses its potency once you've been there an hour or two shopping, or looking for a coffee shop, but if you're just driving through it sure does a number on you. Especially if you're hungry.
So apparently it's the Garlic Festival all weekend, and I know about it. Now I have to consciously make a decision whether to go or not. Will the lure of garlic watermelon prove irresistible?
I'll let you know . . .
*Edit*
My friend and I thought we'd go check it out, just for a few hours, but the closer we got to where we assumed 'the action' was, the slower the traffic actually moved. Then I remembered I hadn't bothered to find out if there would be an entrance fee. Everything has an entrance fee. I can't even go for a walk in the park anymore without paying a fee. (The fee was $17.00 for the Garlic Festival, apparently)
Then I also remembered there would no doubt be a parking fee too. Last weekend I'd been happy to pay for the Salinas Rodeo, but hadn't thought about parking. It had cost $10.00 to park on a baseball field and it was worth it. But that was for rodeo. This was for garlic! I wasn't so sure $10.00 was reasonable for parking for garlic. I'm not exactly made out of money.
It turns out that parking was free with a shuttle service, which is good to know . . . for next year. Next year - if I go - I will leave much earlier and probably on a Saturday. Judging from the website, it looks like it would be fun, not to mention the food of course. Yes, next year sounds good.
Summer Book Giveaway
More Glister info and chapters here: theglisterjournals.com
Glister Journals chapters on Wordpress . . . (Chapters Three and Four will be added soon.)
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