Summer Goals and ANNOUNCEMENT.

So I finally sat down today and drafted up my goals for this summer. Actually, I had already put them on paper a few weeks ago, but the paper decided to go MIA (paper has a mind of its own, doncha know). This is take two.

1. AWAKEN-- my MS that I finished months ago. I'm still in love with it, which is a good sign, but it seriously needs some work that I've been putting off. It's like a room in my brain that I'm not ready to demolish but needs such a cleaning that it's exhausting to even open the door.

2/3. WILD-- probably not the actual name, so I should probably shoot for finding a name for that one, too. Anyway, I'm about fourteen chapters into the draft and have no idea what happens next, so I should probably get to outlining...

4. TBN-- is totally outlined. I love this story so much and I'm about six-ish chapters into it. It's kind of a companion to AWAKEN (which is the first in a trilogy--TBN will stand alone), so that's fun.

5. 1950s Concept-- I love the '50s so much. Thinking of doing a mystery/thriller kind of thing involving that time period along with deserted places (probably aquariums). I have a Pinterest Board for it (sort of), but I can't wait to discover the story further.

6. READ-- "What?! Anne Marie, you said these were Summer 2015 Writing Goals." Someone once said that a true writer is always writing. For me, that's so true, and the time that I'm most writing (besides when I'm actually writing) is when I'm reading. I really want to get into lots of classics this summer as well as some (non-raunchy) adult lit and nonfiction (think memoirs) as well as, as stated, writing books. Right now, I'm reading (writing related) Characters and Viewpoint by Orson Scott Card and Now Write! Screenwriting edited by Sherry Ellis and Laurie Lamson. If you have any suggestions (for any of those categories, but especially writing), I'm all ears! ...erm, or rather, eyes...

7. Blog-- so this really isn't anything new, I already try to blog three times a week.

BUT WAIT. 

THERE ACTUALLY IS SOMETHING NEW. 

WHAT THE HECK IS CLAMORING TO BE VISIBLE!?

Well. Let me tell you a story. 

Once upon a time there was a magical writing goddess named Jenny who also happens to be incredibly humorous. Said goddess stumbled (do goddesses stumble?) upon my blog during the A-Z Challenge. Her blog is definitely one of my favorite stops on the internet, literally every time I visit I smile. ANYWAY. She has another blog, where she posts stories (I'll post the link when it's up and running again, right now she's taking a break) and I think that that is such a good idea.

I've tried out Figment and Wattpad, but it's all "oh you read mine and I'll read yours", which I really don't like. I feel like a lot of "writers" who use those sites don't particularly care about anything besides views. Also, a lot of it is just boy band fanfics (REALLY!? I hate fanfics so much, I'm sorry--but that's another post for another time) and porn, neither of which are my thing. 

Personally, I wouldn't care if nobody ever read or commented on my blog...I write for me, y'all are just a bonus. But a really awesome bonus. 

Anyway, one of my journals is completely dedicated to stories. Just random, free written stories. I decided, because of Jenny the Goddess, that maybe I should share some of said stories.

SO! Here it is. Blog number two, which will hopefully soon be filled with lots of stories, fictional and nonfictional and exaggerated and non-exaggerated (but you're going to have to guess which is which, because I'll never tell!).

Head on over to Clamoring To Be Visible and see Story No. 1: THE PROMISE OF COFFEE.

Love you guys.

Review Wednesday: The Selection Series by Kiera Cass

BLOG SPOTLIGHT: As a new feature, I'll be periodically linking to some of my new and old favorite blogs! Today, I give you Jennifer Hawes, who writes at The Writing Game. I discovered Jennifer during the A-Z Challenge, which she wrote on the fascinating Hannibal, Missouri. If you're not already reading her incredibleness, head on over to her blog and check her out!

Rating: 2 out of 5 stars.

(DISCLAIMER: I haven't actually finished The One yet...but read on =) This is my opinion of the series so far.)

It's so funny...I originally started this blog for book reviewing purposes. I don't even remember the last time I posted a review. Go me.

I'm the kind of person who almost always finishes a book. Unless there is an f-bomb in every other sentence (shout out to Stephen King's Under The Dome--why, Stephen, why?! You're such a good writer, there are so many other words you can use!) or the writing is absolutely abominable, I will trudge my way through. It's curiosity mostly that grants me perseverance...I JUST have to see what is going to happen. I guess if you can make me interested in your characters, you can make me do anything. 

Usually, if I'm going to drop a book, I'll do it within the first half. After that, I won't be able to stop. 

I originally picked up The Selection because the cover was GORGEOUS. Yes, I admit it, I totally judge books by their covers. 

Unfortunately, the beauty of the cover far surpasses the beauty of the writing.

The Selection is basically the Hunger Games with frilly dresses instead of camouflage and cat fights instead of bow and arrows. Literally. But here is a more "professional" sounding summary of the first book via Goodreads:

For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself--and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

Oh, pardon me while I swoon.

So since I've already been bratty about this book (I'm sorry, really trying to be good lately), I should throw out some positives before I get even sassier. Because, folks, it's gonna happen.

I really liked the characters, originally. Well, I should say, I found that they were very well-rounded and each was unique and realistic. The bad guys weren't totally evil and the good guys weren't totally good. The author started with an awesome cast of characters and I was excited about the potential of the book.

I was quickly disappointed, as the characters were the only well-done thing in it. And even that didn't last. *dramatic sob*

One, the plot wasn't totally original. For me, it felt a lot like The Princess Academy by Shannon Hale (awesome MG book) with the whole get a bunch of local girls and turn them into princesses who vie for the prince's heart. Hale did it much better.

Two, there were plot holes. Lots of plot holes. It's pretty easy for me to believe in basically any story, but there were parts that even I was like COME ON.

Three, the plot felt like it just didn't move. I feel like it takes two steps forward and then five backward. You think something is resolved and that it isn't. I get that  can be realistic at times, but absolutely everything in the book was you-have-it-now-you-don't. And it's exhausting, honestly.

Four, I just started reading the third book in this series and the characters feel exactly the same as they were in book one. There are moments of development during which I scream YES YES THANK YOU PLEASE DO NOT REVERT BACK INTO WHO YOU WERE...but to no avail. Things happen to the characters, but for the most part, they remain the same. It's really sad, because they are so well developed and they deserve to grow...but nope, they're stuck, just like the plot.

Five, I just don't like the main character, America. I kind of did, originally, but now I don't understand her at all. She irks my soul.

That being said, one of the nastier characters has evolved nicely. She's probably my favorite part of the whole series. I'm kinda pulling for her to just ruin everyone's lives.

Like I said, I'm on the third book (pretty sure there's only one more left after this one). I'm not sure if I'm going to finish it. A Hunger Games/Divergent-like riot is going on...please. Can we be original for once?! There are more things to write about besides dystopian uprisings against the government.

That being said, I do want to know what happens. I have spent a lot of time with these characters...though I've spent most of the time being annoyed with them...but still. I feel kind of trapped. However, each time I pick up the book, my annoyance increases and it ebbs away at any intrigue that I might have once had.

So chances of me finishing are slim.

Should you read this series? I would say no, you shouldn't. Even if you're not turned off by the fact that it isn't original, the writing is not very good. I don't really understand the hype besides the fact that they are "glamorous" and easy to read and not very deep (none of which particularly appeal to me). Literary cocaine, as my dad says. Addictive and not really doing anything good for you.

And just one last note-- The Selection is a New York Times Best Seller. I have come to discover that just because you're a New York Best Selling Author does not make you a good writer. Which means that to be a good writer, you don't have to write a New York Times Best Seller. Does that make sense?

Have you read The Selection Books? If so, what was your opinion?

(I have no idea why part of this is highlighted, past the summary...sorry! Nothing I do is unhighlighting it, so we're stuck...oh well. Ew technology.)

(image found via http://images.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=the+selection+by+kiera+cass&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CAcQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kieracass.com%2Fjournal%2F&ei=lttIVZHyMImqyQSNz4GQCA&bvm=bv.92291466,d.cGU&psig=AFQjCNG4jXSyEkaS6uFRc3-nLXmFHoKUXA&ust=1430924134652173)

Very Important, Reading Is: Guest Post by Jen Wagner

I am so blessed to come from a family of writers. Here's my cousin-in-law, the INCREDIBLE Jen Wagner. She's a writer and freelancer and reader and mother-er.

Truth: I hated reading when I was a kid.

I would go to the library with my mom and older brother, and I would come out empty handed. My brother, however, would load up on Garfield comics and baseball trivia books. I had no clue what I enjoyed reading. Yet when I graduated from high school, I decided to major in English because I wanted to force myself to have to read. But even then, I still had no clue what genre was “mine.”

And then, one glorious day, I met Harry.

Harry Potter opened up a door—a little door underneath a staircase if you will—which then led me to Stephanie Perkins, Maggie Stiefvater, Becca Fitzpatrick, Lauren Kate, Colleen Houck and Veronica Roth. Young adult fiction was my thing.

I finally had a passion for reading and I couldn’t get enough. I still can’t. Thank you, Harry.

And perhaps I never discovered my passion because there wasn’t enough of it to choose from in the 90’s when I was a teen. YA consisted of works by Judy Blume, Ann M. Martin, and Lurlene McDaniel. While these books were good, there just wasn’t enough of it.

 https://jclaireinocencio.wordpress.com/author/jhesikaclaire/page/2/

As an adult — one who loves teen angst and the quirky best friend — I have discovered how desperately I want to write my own YA book. In fact, my ideas have been brewing for five years now (quite the realization seeing that confession in print).

But, I know I’ve needed these five years to find my voice and uncover my style. I had to read books from several different YA authors in order to discover what I like and dislike in a YA novel.  

Books Are Like Dessert.

The options are endless. There are stories that are simple, and ones that are elegant. Others are quite time consuming because they transport you away from reality and into a completely different dimension, revealing each bit by bit.

Yet each book must be explored and analyzed to help determine what satisfies, what falls flat ... and in some instances, what disgusts.

Often, books will have similar characteristics and story-lines, just like desserts which have similar ingredients. For instance, consider author Nicolas Sparks.

In my opinion, Sparks is the king of stealing from his own work and incorporating the same “ingredients” over and again: boy and girl meet; one or both have a history or issues that need resolved (perhaps one has an abusive ex-lover, is widowed, or is a single parent); and someone (always!) dies in the end. The names change, the settings change, but the ideas are often the same. And women go crazy for this! The same goes for author James Patterson. Each of these men have discovered their personal “plug and play” when writing a book.

Read, and then Read Some More. Find YOUR Pattern.

Reading allows you to seek and find the pattern that works for you. Take an idea from one author you love and twist it into your own. This is not plagiarism. This is called inspiration. And if you aren’t reading, you can’t be inspired.

“Nothing inspires a writer like reading someone else’s words.” -Jeff Goins

So, you want to write a book? Well, I suggest you start reading. Peace.

Relationships

Welcome back, folks, for more sass and sarcasm, and, hopefully, a little substance.

For the letter R, we're talking Relationships. More specifically, fictional relationships. Brace yourselves, because this might turn into a rant.

I hate hate hate HATE most fictional relationships. I think that they are so non realistic. Just because the characters aren't real doesn't mean the relationships have to be fake. 

Literally this is about every YA romance (okay, not every, but the majority) summed up in a paragraph: Boy runs into girl. Exchanges glance. Something happens to them that makes them somewhat close. Then they either a) start "making out" or b) start dating. Am I right or am I right?

I should probably clarify. This does happen and it is real. People meet and starting dating a week, two weeks later. But that doesn't lead to a forever type of relationship.

So the thing with that kind of relationship though, is it's not going to last very long. If it does, it's not going to be a healthy relationship. Most likely, it will be centered on emotion and being physical (which could be anything from kissing to having sex). The emotion and physical pleasure is fleeting and is not what keeps a relationship together.

There are not positive outcomes to these relationships. Most books make it seem like meet, sparks fly, have sex, boom, forever. It doesn't work that way. The truth is, that that sort of relationship isn't going to last. It will fade. Not only that, but both people in the relationship will be left with a lot of hurt. Neither sex nor kissing nor intense emotions will keep a relationship going. And if sex is being had outside of marriage, the relationship is most likely going to go down hill, as that's not a good thing either emotionally or physically.

A strong relationship is one that is built on a strong friendship.

Friendship first is so underrated, both in real life and in the writing world when it comes to being friends first. When I come to a point in my life when I'm ready to date, I want to date my best friend. No, not just want--I refuse to date anyone who is less than my best friend. If I settle for anything less than that, what will the basis of the relationship be? Not a strong one, that's for sure. If I can't make a friendship strong, how will I ever be able to make a relationship strong? Relationships (and friendships) require work, they require insistence death to self and self-sacrifice. 

So, my challenge to you, writers, is to examine your fictional relationships. Are they realistic? If they are intended to last forever, then what is the base?

One of my favorite books that is an AWESOME example of a healthy relationship is This Is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith. So amazing. Another great example is that of Harry and Ginny in Harry Potter. They were friends for YEARS before they started going out and their relationships was totally based on friendship and respect of each other. Ahhh. Just love it so much.

Writing, Mermaids, and Ice-Cream?! An Interview with Jessica Wolf!

I am so excited to host JESSICA WOLF, creator of Simple Scribbles! Jessica is an incredible sixteen-year-old writer who loves to (you guessed it) write and read. Also, she has a twenty-two pound cat...you'll have to go over to her blog to see the proof, though!

Without further ado, I bring you...JESS!

AMS: What’s your writing history?

JW: I started writing as a youngster like most youngsters do. My stories ranged from gnomes that lived in pinecones to two princesses who were bffs. I stopped writing, then, from 2rd grade until 7th grade when I really started to write seriously in the fanfiction world. It's only been in the past year or so that I've begun working on original novels.

AMS: That's awesome! Sounds like you have quite the diverse collection of writings.

Which author would you most like to share a cup of coffee with?

JW: Oscar Wilde. He was such an interesting man and so, so funny.

AMS: I have never actually read any Wilde! I'll have to add it the summer bucket list.

What genres do you write? And why?

JW: Historical fiction is the only genre I write in, specifically the romance subgenre. I've always loved reading historical fiction and watching period films and TV shows; I just have a fascination with the past. I also read historical romance extensively, so I figured I would try my hand at it a while ago and haven't stopped.

AMS: I LOVE historical fiction, and there isn't enough of it out there, as far as I'm concerned! Also yes, go period movies and TV. And what's historical fiction without romance? Actually, what's anything without romance?!

Favorite fictional character?

JW: Tough question! I am in love with Hercule Poirot from Agatha Christie's Poirot novels. He's such a dear little man it's hard not to love him.

AMS: Agatha Christie is a boss. Nuff said.

Social media of choice?

JW: Pinterest! It is beyond useful for organizing your writing thoughts and ideas.

AMS: PINTEREST. YES. YES. YES. Especially for writers, it's amazing. Plus, it's drama free! Why do you write?

Simple: I can't not write. If I didn't write, I would go insane.

AMS: That's a fabulous answer. I am the exact same way.

Favorite book? (Or books!)

JW: 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde. It's incredibly moving and really inventive for its time. Second pick would be 'Jane Eyre' by Charlotte Brontë. (Hint about me: I love the classics.)

AMS: Not enough people (especially teens) read and appreciate classics, I think. There is so much to be gleaned from that sort of literature, both writing-wise and just life-wise. Absolutely love Jane Eyre.

Would you rather ride a unicorn or swim with a mermaid?

JW: Even though I'm not a fan of swimming, I would definitely swim with a mermaid. What girl hasn't swam in a lake/pool pretending they had a tail?

AMS: Plus I would probably be afraid of being stabbed by the unicorn. Even though mermaids are sometimes depicted as having major attitudes, so I really don't know which one I'd pick.

Do you ever use a pen and paper to write?

JW: Only when I have to. I would much rather use my computer, but if that's not available, I'll use a pen and paper.

AMS: Gotcha! I always favor my laptop, though I do love journaling by hand and I hand write most of my outlines.

Any hobbies besides writing?

JW: Does reading count? I don't play sports or sew or crochet, but I can play the piano.

AMS: GIRL. We are literally twins, I don't play sports either! I used to play piano, too, though I kind of lost it a while back...and yes, reading always counts, as far as I'm concerned!

What time period would you most like to live in?

JW: I feel that, as a girl, going back in time would not be smart no matter what era, but I would love to go back to the late 1800's. Oy those dresses were beautiful.

AMS: Yes, I suppose that there would be pros and cons either way...but I'm a sucker for that clothing, too.

Are your characters based on people in your life?

JW: Oh gosh, I'm not sure. Maybe inadvertently, but I've never sat down and thought up a character with someone I know in mind.

AMS: Interesting! I suppose life naturally bleeds into our writing, whether we realize it or not!

Do you listen to music while you write? What music inspires you the most?

JW: I used to. Now I can't; it's too distracting. But, if I did, I would probably listen to John Williams' soundtracks.

AMS: He's amazing, good choice!

When is your favorite time of day to write?

JW: Early to late evening. So from 7 o'clock onwards.

AMS: I'm the same! Inspiration comes to me on rainy days and through star-filled skies.

Favorite ice-cream flavor? (really, this is the most important question)

JW: I don't actually like ice-cream. (*hides*) My dad is an ice-cream snob and makes it and eats it all the time, but there's something about the combination of the cold and the creaminess that I don't like. I do eat it sometimes, and when I do, I go for chocolate chip cookie dough.

Well, we can't be friends...joking! This interview was so much fun. Thanks for doing it, Jess! Everybody else, be sure to head over to Jessica's blog and subscribe to her wonderful posts! =)

A Tree Grows In Brooklyn

Title: A Tree Grows In Brooklyn
Author: Betty Smith
Rating: PG14 for mature content

I don't know Betty Smith. Technically speaking, I really can't know her, since she passed away before I was born. I don't really know anything about her, either, besides that she (1) isn't living (which I just found out by Googling, so I'm not sure if it counts) and (2) wrote A Tree Grows In Brooklyn. So, needless to say, I do not know anything about her writing process.

But I think I have a good idea of how it went.

What happened was that she went to New York (where the story takes place) with a book full of blank pages. She sat down on a busy corner with people bustling about, jostling each other, eagerly coming and going. She opened the blank little book and the wind blew words into its pages. Words soaked heavily in life. And, viola, the book was written.

Words cooperate exceptionally well with her. IF ONLY I TOO WOULD BE SO LUCKY.

Anyway, life imprinted itself on the very pages of her novel. If I had to describe the novel with one word that's what I would say: it's just life.

The life of Francie Nolan, the lives of her family, of her friends, of those around her. . .living, breathing, doing regular, day-to-day things that are common and ordinary (to them). I exhibited all the signs of reading a thriller while reading this book: sitting on the edge of my seat, staying up all night haunted by thoughts, tears streaming down my face, lip biting because of nervousness. But no, it's simply a work of historical fiction, so realistically beautiful.

This book renewed my appreciation for life-- both writing it and living it. It encouraged me to notice seemingly little things more (because that's what's really important) and not to get so upset with seemingly big things (because they too will pass).

Honestly, there are no words in the English language to express the brilliance of Betty Smith and her novel. Her novel is about a journey called life, with heartbreak, joy, tears, and love we can all relate to.

ALSO: Check back this Friday for a special announcement!

ONE YEAR!!!

August marked the one year birthday of my blog. 

*EXCITED SQUEAL!*
 

Ahem. Where has the time gone?!

It has been a life changing year full of blessings, beauty, and surprises. It's been insane. In a good way. Well, mostly good, at least.

It has been a very, very crazy ride. And I owe lots of people lots of thanks.

Number One Thanks: JESUS! Because You rock my world. Thank You for holding me always, through both peace and turmoil.

Number Two: My parents! Thank you, Dad, for encouraging me to do things out of my comfort zone. Thank you for pushing me to greatness. Mom, thank you for always being there for me to cry or laugh or whatever with. Thank you for choosing to give me life. Thank you for your love and support.

Number Three: My absolutely beautiful, amazing cousin, Alex. You are wise beyond your years, girlfriend. Thank you for every time you've held me when I've cried and listened to me blubber over the phone. Thank you for laughing with me and staying up until. . .well, let's just say, very late. . .to listen and talk to me. Thank you for all the help you did in creating this blog--it seriously wouldn't have been posible without you. You're doing great things, love, and you are going to do so many more. To infinity and beyond!

Number Four: A very special thanks goes to Jen Wagner (http://writtenenvogue.wordpress.com/). Jen, you are so talented in absolutely everything you do. I'm so, so blest that you are a part of my life. Thank you for telling me which books to read and which books not to. Thanks for telling me to start the blog in the first place. Thank you for always being there for me to rant to and for being excited with me about every little writing milestone. I can't wait to put your book on my shelf someday!

Number Five: Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU, to Faith Hough (http://faithehough.blogspot.com/

 )! Faith, I have looked up to you since day one. Thank you for your critiques of my writing. I value your opinion so very much. Thank you for reading what I write and for letting me peek into the mind of a creative genius. You seriously inspire me to no end. Every time I see your name pop up in my inbox, it makes me smile. Thank you=)

Number Six: Jeannette Smejkal (www.folioroad.com), you are ULTRA-AMAZING. Thank you for being the first to read my WIP and being honest with me about every single aspect of it. I've been so blest to work with you. You are a huge inspiration to me. I cannot believe how crazy talented you are. Thank you for keeping me writing.

Number Seven: Linda Kemper, who is probably the most giving person ever. Kempy, thank you for reading all my blog posts and always asking about my writing. Thank you for always being there for me. Words cannot express how grateful I am for you.

Number Eight: YOU! I have interacted with some of the most amazing readers/writers/whatever-ers on the planet. I have been so blest by each and every one of you guys. I have learned so much from all the blog posts I've read by you and the comments you've posted. I'm just so in awe of you all.

I'm so very blest to be on this writing journey with all of you guys. I love love love y'all!!!

Here's to another year of reading and writing!

A Round of Happy Birthdays!

*HARRY POTTER SPOLIER ALERT!* Just so you know=)

Happy birthday to Harry Potter, JK Rowling, and my baby-sister-who-isn't-a-baby-anymore!!!!

JK Rowling has seriously touched millions of lives and inspired millions of writers with the Harry Potter series. There are honestly very few books that have had such a strong emotional hold on me.

Afters months and months of pestering Catherine to read HP, she finally picked it up and fell in love almost as much as I did. And, actually, here's a picture of her reading it:

Appearently, we both get very emotionally involved with HP. She had just read about Lupin and Tonks dying. Poor kid.

What I wouldn't give to read HP again for the first time. *Sigh.*

Anyway. . .

I'm so blest by Catherine's life. I had to wait four loooong years for her=) She turns eleven today, which is way too crazy and makes me feel old. Before she was born, I would always tell my mom how unfair it was: she shared a room with my dad, and my brothers shared a room, but I had no one to share a room with!

After Catherine was born, we moved to a bigger house and my wish came true. I finally had a sister to share my room with! And then, about a year later, another sister came along and I had TWO sisters to share a room with! Wasn't I lucky?!

I was a strange child.

. . .years later, we would fight over who got to have their own room in our new house. . .naturally, being the oldest, I won. Isn't it funny how much we change?

But I did share a room with her for ten years. She's a neat freak (like, a crazy neat freak. She looooves cleaning anything. Even like a bathroom or a kitchen.) and she's kind-of-sort-of rubbed off on me.

Catherine inspires me. So much.

She's one of the most giving people I've ever met. She will seriously drop whatever she's doing and listen and help with whatever problem. She has a beautiful smile. She has a beautiful voice. She loves to read and make up stories. She loves watching Pride and Predjudice with me. (BBC-- there is no other watchable version as far as we're concerned.) She read the first chapter of my book and is constantly asking me question after question about it.

Catherine encourages me to press on with life, even when it's hard. When I have bad days, she makes me feel better. When my best friend and I resolved a very long fight we had, Cate was so excited for me. Everyone in my family couldn't believe that we were friends again, but Catherine told me how happy she was.

And sure, we argue just like sisters have since the beginning of time. We fight over the bathroom, over hair ties and bobby pins. . .typical girl stuff.

We were arguing about something a week or so ago, and I was clearly winning the argument, when Catherine exasperatedly threw her hands up in the air and said as she walked out of the room:

"FINE. But I get to marry SNAPE then. So THERE."

Isn't there a saying about how those who you love the most and who love you the most can also annoy you the most? Because if there isn't, there should be.

Anyway. . .Catherine rocks. And I'm so glad that she was born.

Happy birthday, baby sis. I love you forever<3

The Joy of Reading

Life can be hard. High school life can be really hard, I'm finding out. Some teachers are nicer than others; some make more sense than others. People float around in bubbles, you could say, not wanting to let anyone in or anyone out. Friendships change. They fade away or strengthen. Everything in this life changes. And that can be a good thing and a bad thing. Actually, I wouldn't keep everything the same even if I could.

But in this ever changing world, books are the only thing that remain the same. And I love that. They can be the most real part of this world. They can be the most sane part of this insane life. Their characters are just as real to me as the air I breathe. I can always visit them in my mind and feel them in my heart. They are the only people who can be guaranteed to never change, to always remain faithful. Some of the most real relationships I've had, I've had with characters. From Anne Shirley to Severus Snape, every single character of every single book I have read has a place in my heart. From Elizabeth Bennet to Minny Jackson, they are all part of me.

My ten-year-old sister is officially hooked on reading. She began reading Harry Potter a few days ago and is enthralled. She has been swept away in the fascinating world of Hogwarts. My mom told me that she's been smiling and crying and laughing. I'm so happy that she is finally enjoying reading! I guess the only that I am disappointed about, though, is that she "HATES" Severus Snape. Ugh, I'll have to work on that. . . .

I'm so happy, though, that she'll meet the characters that never cease to amaze me. And that she is discovering that not all things that take place in your head aren't real. . . .

"Of course it is happening inside your head, Harry, but why on earth should that mean it is not real?” -- J.K. Rowling, via Albus Dumbledore