GWR: Secrets to a Successful Blog Tour by Donna Huber

About the Author

Donna Huber is an avid reader and an individual who naturally encourages others. She is the blogger behind Girl Who Reads where, in addition to book reviews and author appearances, she writes the popular blogging advice series, Tips on Thursday. She has worked as a freelance publicist since 2010 assisting publishers and authors with their marketing and publicity needs. Most notably, she was the publicist for The Writer's Coffee Shop Publishing House edition of Fifty Shades of Grey and Fifty Shades Darker by E. L. James.
When Donna is not doling out blogging advice or promoting the next bestseller, she can be found spending time with family (particularly the four legged, furry members), re-watching Downton Abbey and Harry Potter, or trying to make a dent in her never ending to-be-read pile. 

About the Book

Secrets to a Successful Blog Tour is jam packed with awesome tips and tricks! It gives you an ultimate guide to planning a successful blog tour, while keeping your sanity. From the publicist who introduced the world to Fifty Shades of Grey, Donna Huber is now revealing her secrets to successful blog tours. She shares tips and tricks learned through organizing over 30 tours, blasts, and promotional events for nearly 50 independently and traditionally published titles.

Secrets Revealed Include:

• planning stage decisions
• different types of tours
• recruiting bloggers and keeping request organized
• best practice communication tips
• tricks to making a great guest appearance
• how to organize a fun (and legal) giveaway
• actions to take during the tour
• next steps once the tour is complete
• virtual tour and other promotional opportunities
• when to hire a professional

"In this easy to follow manual, Donna does not stop there. She spills even more of her blog tour secrets to help authors get the most out of their events"

• tour checklist
• tour invite tips
• step-by-step guide to creating tour graphics
• 10 broad quest post topics
• 25 sample interview questions

Top Ten List of Promotional Sites for Your Bargain eBook

"Authors are always looking for places to get their ebooks featured when they are having free days or 99 cents promotions. It is usually one of the first questions clients have for me. There are are a number of sites that will feature your ebook. Below are ones that I have or would recommend to clients.
1. Book Bub (http://www.bookbub.com) - This site is huge and has one of the best returns on your investment. They have some review requirements and can be pricey. If you can get on this site, though, DO! 2. eReader News Today (http://ereadernewstoday.com/) - another top site for free and bargain ebooks. 3. Pixel of Ink (http://www.pixelofink.com/) Contact them early if you need a certain date. 4. Indie Book Promo (http://indiebookpromo.com) A number of paid advertising options 5. Kindle Daily Nation (http://indie.kindlenationdaily.com/) Sponsor an email that is sent out about Kindle Daily Deals, plus they have partnered with Book Gorilla (similar to Book Bub). 6. The 99 cent Network (http://www.99-cent-network.com/www.99-cent-Network.com/Home.html) While most of the promotion sites are for free or 99 cent ebooks, The 99 cent Network will feature ebooks up to $5.99. 7. Indie Author News (http://www.indieauthornews.com) Does book features and interviews as well as book features. 8. Digital Book Today (http://digitalbooktoday.com/) Offers more than book features - let readers get to know you a little more with a guest post. 9. Addicted to eBooks (http://addictedtoebooks.com/)* 10. GoodKindles (http://www.goodkindles.net)*

*I found these two sites at GalleyCat and will be recommending them to clients as potential promotional sites. There are other sites listed in the GalleyCat article you might want to investigate further (http://www.mediabistro.com/galleycat/free-ebook-promotion_b52130)" Donna Huber
+Donna H 

Buy the Book

Amazon (US) - http://amzn.to/14uf6Js

Amazon (UK) - http://amzn.to/128YXex

Smashwords - http://bit.ly/1295181

Kobo - http://bit.ly/12iPtO7

Links

Follow Donna on Twitter - https://twitter.com/girl_who_reads

Twitter Party August 15th @ 8:00 pm (EST) #GWRchat

Connect on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Girl-Who-Reads/273856382671730

Girl Who Reads Blog - http://www.girl-who-reads.com

Add to Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17980343-secrets-to-a-successful-blog-tour

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Scheduled Features for Secrets to a Successful Blog Tour by Donna Huber

July 29th - Fresh Pot of Tea - http://alisondeluca.blogspot.com/

July 30th - Sarah Aisling - www.sarahaisling.com

July 31st - 1 Book Lover's Opinion - www.1bookloversopinion.com

August 1st - ME! What Shall We Blog About Today? http://kenowinsky.blogspot.com

August 2nd - Jude Ouvrard - www.judeouvrard.com

August 3rd - Jamie Sheffield - www.jamiesheffield.com
August 4th - From the desk of... R. E. Hargrave - www.rehargrave.com
August 5th - All That's Written... - http://lucypireel.wordpress.com/
August 6th - Italian Brat's Obsessions - http://itlnbrt.com
August 7th - Author S. A. Jones - www.authorsajones.com
August 8th - Karen Pokras Toz - http://kptoz.blogspot.com
August 9th - Lisa Bilbrey - www.lisabilbrey.blogspot.com
August 10th - Elizabeth Lawrence, Author and Professional Oddity -  http://elizabeth-lawrence-author.blogspot.com/
August 11th - Aria Glazki Writes - ariaglazki.blogspot.com
August 12th - Rose and Beps Blog - http://rosebeps.blogspot.it
August 13th - Cabin Goddess - http://cabingoddess.com/
August 14th - Killer Chicks - http://www.killerchicks.org/
August 15th - Tune in for the Twitter Party @ 8 pm (EST) @girl_who_reads #GWRchat
August 16th - Library Girl Reads and Reviews - http://librarygirlreads.blogspot.com

March Blog Challenge Day 28

March Blog Challenge
Day 28: what is your guilty pleasure?
March 28, 2013

I think we all have a guilty pleasure, or two, or three... well, let's just say that some are more guilty then others. This took me some time to figure out - what exactly - were my guilty pleasures. However, as I have done with this challenge ~ think-think-think & type-type-type.
My Top 10 Guilty Pleasures
10.) YA Series - young adult book series didn't really register with me until I was 25. My first gateway series was Harry Potter.  Then I gravitated toward the Chronicles of Narnia series, followed by the Sookie Stackhouse (True Blood) series, and of course the Twilight series.

9.) Disney Channel - I go through phases when I can't get enough of a Disney Channel show. Such as Even Stevens, Lizzie McGuire, Suite Life, and Life on Deck. I watched Wizards of Waverly Place for a while, and Good Luck Charlie. Naturally, I don't mind watching anything my son loves either (Mickey Mouse Clubhouse)!
8.) Disney Movies - a couple times I have dragged people to the movies with me to see an animated feature or Pixar productions. One time, the person I went with leaned in and whispered "we're the only adults here without children". This just made me giggle. Now, I do have children that I can take to the movies. My sister and I actually joke that we have a valid reason to go to kids movies now. I love taking my nieces and cherish it.

7.) Food - who doesn't have something that makes their mouth salivate? My problem is that there are too many guilty options. I use to love Easter, not only because of the meaning, but also because of Reese's Easter Eggs. Which, now they have a special Reese's for just about every holiday.
6.) TV - I think everyone has a program they are addicted to. There was a couple months that we did not have TV. During this time I really didn't miss it. I missed my shows, but I enjoyed the quality time I spent with others. Something else I learned was that when the TV is off, I am more motivated to do things around the house - like cleaning!
5.) Tips - yes, they may ruin your nail beds for months after you take them off, and your nails will be weak and brittle, but it is a guilty pleasure. Every once in a while I treat myself at the nail salon, it makes me feel good about myself. I feel guilty about it because most of the time it is something that I cannot afford. Eventually, I have to have them taken off or rip them off, because I can't afford to keep them anymore and they grow-out and loose their durability.

4.) Pedicures - I usually want these more in the spring and summer months when my feet are exposed to the public. I would get them regularly if I could though! I think everyone should find something that relaxes the body like this to pamper themselves with. It is not only good for the body, it is also good for the mind. Usually you get to sit in a massage chair too, which adds to the pampering.
3.) Hair Salon - most people go regularly to manage their hair styles and coloring. Again, when I can afford it, I treat myself to a hair cut and usually some form of coloring (highlights, lowlights, or peek-a-boo's). This can get pretty pricey depending on when you go and what services they're going to provide for your hair. Most of the time my total is around $100 which I think is pretty common for women with medium to long hair.
2.) Vehicular - when I was 25 I had to sell my car in order to buy a van for my special needs son. I've never had a car since, actually, I don't have a vehicle at all right now. But, when I did have my car (and no limitations, gas was cheaper, no restrictions) I would love it on a beautiful spring day to just get in my car, turn the radio up, and just drive around. This really helped me at times too if I was really upset. It helped me to return to a calm state, sort of like a quick shock to sober my personality back to a manageable state. Now, it represents a time in my life of independence.

1.) Buying Gifts - when I was younger my mom would get on me all the time for spending my money on buying people gifts, or for using gift cards that were given to me and getting someone else something. When I would travel, I would always buy those closest to me small gifts. When I have the availability, I love to buy gifts for people. This probably isn't the usual guilty pleasure but being scolded or deterred about buying for others, or not having the money to do so, can trigger those feelings of guilt. Until next time or the next... dream ~ K.E.Nowinsky

March Blog Challenge Day 26

March Blog Challenge

Day 26: what is your favorite food?

March 26, 2013

Picking a favorite food is like picking a favorite movie or a favorite song. There are just too many to choose from. What better way to explain my favorite things to eat, by compiling a top ten list!

Top 10 Favorite Food

10.) Chinese food – every once in a while I get a craving for shrimp fried rice. To make our order complete we also include cheesy shrimp wontons that is accompanied by a sweet sauce for dipping. It is delicious! I can make my own too, for when we can’t afford to order out.

9.) Sushi – my favorite sushi rolls are the California roll which is usually some form of imitation crab meat, fish row, and avocado. I also like this same roll with fresh (yes raw) fish on top; it has been called a rainbow roll and an Alaskan roll. Some people think of sushi and wrinkle up their nose in disgust. I say, try it, you might like it. I had this reaction too until my friend forced me to try it and I’ve been hooked ever since.

8.) Grapefruit – now that I am getting older, the acidity can upset my stomach, so I have to be careful. When I first started eating grapefruit, it was very frustrating for me when attempting to maneuver getting the sectional pieces out. When Pampered Chef introduced the grapefruit spoon I haven’t used anything else, to eat grapefruit, since then. I love to cut the grapefruit in half and sprinkle some sugar on top. When I am finished I like to squeeze any remaining juice into my bowl to sip off the spoon.

7.) Fish – growing up I did not appreciate eating fish. Now that I am older, I can. Not only do I think the taste is better, but there are great health benefits to eating fish. I believe that fish contains omega proteins that are very beneficial for our health.

6.) Chicken – it used to be a special treat growing up, to have KFC for dinner. However, my favorite chicken is from Royal Farms. It is never dry, which is important. Dry chicken is hard to chew and I associate it with no taste. Probably because growing up, the healthy way we ate chicken was oven roasted. Yes, fried chicken is not healthy, I know. But, it is still considered a special treat because we do not eat it all the time.

5.) Dessert – my favorite dessert would be Haagen Dazs raspberry shorbet. One of my favorite desserts that my sister made me once were these little mini flaky bread like cups filled with raspberries and chocolate. Godiva has a chocolate filled raspberry that is wonderful as well.

4.) Seafood – hello, I have been born and raised in Maryland. There is nothing like the smell of special seasoning, beer, and vinegar in the air. Of course I am talking about steamed crabs, the only way to eat them in my opinion. There are a few places that serve them all year (as long as they can get them). Usually, this is traditional for spring and summer.

3.) Family Favorites – my family loves food! Some of my favorite family dishes are of course, my mom’s broccoli casserole and her breakfast casserole. The broccoli casserole contains (of course broccoli – steamed) with Ritz crackers crushed up and sprinkled on top and some Velveeta cheese. The breakfast casserole is a Christmas tradition it includes bread, eggs, and sausage. My mom use to make chicken and dumplings, as my favorite dinner meal, usually reserved for my birthday.

2.) Raspberries – you could probably tell by #5 that raspberries are a favorite of mine. I remember we use to have raspberries growing in our back yard when I was young. We could go out there and pick them off until our finger tips were discolored and our belly’s ache. If I can afford it, I will usually pick up a container of raspberries when grocery shopping, as a special treat. Plus, I just read that raspberries are consumed to help fight against pain.

1.) Pickles – my dad has joked before, when I stop by to eat lunch with my parent’s; “hide the pickles!” My favorites are dill spears, bread and butter, and sweet gherkins. They don’t have any fat, but high in sodium. I don’t know why I like them so much, but they have always been a favorite snack of mine.

All this talk of food has made me really hungry! Speaking of sweet gherkins, I have a jar in the pantry I think I’ll go and pop open. Until next time or the next… dream ~ K.E.Nowinsky

March Blog Challenge Day 20

March Blog Challenge

Day 20: what do you collect?

March 20, 2013

Through the years I have collected many things. The one constant within my collections would be my love of Disney. Over the years I have collected Disney Animated Movies, Disney Books, and Disney figurines (and other collectables).  Some of the items were not intentional, just something that materialized through time.

Top 10 of My Collectables through the Years

10.) Carousel Horses – as a young girl for my birthday or for a gift giving occasion, my mom would pick out beautiful carousel horses (and a few rocking horses) figurines.  They were packed up once I hit adolescence and stored at my parents’ house. Since then, I have given them to my young nieces.

9.) Cat Figurines – I loved animals, I still do. When I was younger, I wanted a cat. My parents would not consent, so I had to be content with collecting ‘cat’ things. I had a few cat Home Interior pictures and figurines. My youngest niece shares in this love of cats and along with other childhood collectibles I acquired through my younger years, I passed them to her.

8.) Blankets – my theory is that you can’t have enough blankets. This was something that was not intentional. My first couple of blankets was nice knitted ones that were given to me by my parent’s (a sunflower knitted blanket and The Lion King knitted blanket). Then I was given some more Disney blankets from other family members. Then one year for Christmas my parents gave me a very nice Mickey, Minnie, and Pluto knitted blanket. My grandmother hand-crafted her own quilts, I still have them and cherish them.

7.) Beer/Cider/Alcohol Caps – This seems to be a silly thing to collect. It started after we had just moved into our new home. There is an open small space above the range in the kitchen. I think it was originally made to hold spices, but since I was given a beautiful spice rack, I didn't know what else to do with this area. One day after opening some beer, the caps were just piling up on the table. It seemed like such a waste to throw them away. So, I just started throwing them up in the area and there is where they stay.

6.) Music/Books – when I was younger I belonged to a CD club where you got to initially pick out CD’s for a penny each. Then each month you were sent a new selection in the specified categories that I had chosen. They accumulated over the years until I could no longer afford them. I also started collecting the books I have read. Then, Kindle came out and now they’re electronic. My mom prefers holding a book. I personally can do both and it doesn't bother me. It definitely saves space storing them electronically.

5.) Xbox 360/PS3 Games – we couldn't afford a game system for years. Then, one day (just for fun) we went to a semi-local casino. I won over $2,000 dollars.  My husband at the time (now divorced and he’s remarried) and I decided to split the money. I thought that we deserved to use the money how we wanted to; we deserved to have some happiness.  I used my money to buy my Xbox 360. One of my first games was Cars.  My boyfriend Justin introduced me to the PS3 and we both have a love of gaming and enjoy playing together. Together we probably have over 50 games (I know I have sold some of mine over the years) which might not seem like a lot of games to some people.

4.) Tea Pots/Cups – this was not something that I intentionally wanted to collect. My family loves to go to tea. Mostly the women in our family will take time out and go to a proper tea (in a tea room). Since then, my mom has bought some really nice tea pots and has given me some nice tea cups and saucers too. I probably have over 10 tea pots that are displayed in my kitchen.

3.) Polish Pottery – this is something that I have started to collect more recently. It is special to me since, on my father’s side of my family, our heritage is partly Polish.  Polish Pottery is sturdy and has interesting patterns. I really love the pieces that my parents have given me (included are two tea pots).

2.) Disney Animated Movies – I started collecting Disney movies when I was very young. I would watch them over and over again.  My sister and I would have movie marathon’s where we would pick a few of our favorites to watch in a day. I had them displayed in my bedroom growing up and would keep them in order of when they had been released. I had a Disney encyclopedia that had the list that I could reference to keep them in proper order.  Now, they are still on a shelf, however I am unable to watch them since I do not have a working VCR.

1.) Disney Collectibles – I have an entire cabinet full of Disney memorabilia; items from Walt Disney World trips, items that have been given to me over the years, and the Disney Traditions Collectible Figurines.

What is something that you have collected that you cherish the most?

Until next time or the next… dream

K.E.Nowinsky

March Blog Challenge Day 15

March Blog Challenge

Day 15: list 10 things that make you awesome

March 15, 2013

Top 10 of My Best Attributes

10.) Listening – before deciding on what I wanted my major to be, I would always joke that I should be a psychiatrist because people were always telling me their problems. This has never really bothered me; I don’t mind listening, especially if I can help. An important part of listening, is really hearing what someone is saying, responding to them, and staying engaged in the topics.

9.) Puzzler – I don’t mind listening to people’s problems. In one of my psych courses I learned that I have the ability to ‘solve puzzles’. I think it is because (maybe) I can see a bigger picture. Taking into consideration the environment, what within their life and social structure can benefit their situation.  Nature vs. nurture, are they doing something repetitive, asking questions if they have past experience that could be influencing their situation. Adding my personal experiences and knowledge, which is an attribute of everyone, we’re all unique and have great life experience to share and learn from.

8.) Open Minded – luckily, I was raised to have an open-mind. I always feel sorry for people that grow up with prejudices. It was disturbing to me, working with special needs students, and when we would go out adults would pull their children closer to them. This action not only taught their children to fear something different, for the student’s that are aware of their environment, it could hurt them too. There have been so many times growing up when my mom would talk to me about perspective “how do you think that would make so and so feel?” I think this is why to this day I am always so concerned about everyone else (but myself).

7.) Childtime – staying young is more than just your age, it is what is in our heart. I like to play around, teasing, and just being mischievous.  Playing around, joking with the one’s you love, it is good for the soul. If you start to feel gloomy, like society has its hold on you, I would prescribe for you to watch Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium (2007) – STAT! 

Info Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium

6.) Ethics – my parents taught me the importance of work ethics and standing for my beliefs. Give 110% and do the best that you can. Being over-analytical has helped me in doing the best job possible. My parent’s also taught me to take pride in what I do, do it the best to my ability the first time. I think that this also taught a degree of respect, especially to respect others.

5.) Perseverance – survival. I wouldn’t be where I am today if I couldn’t survive what life has thrown at me. I survived a flesh eating bacteria that could have taken my life; I was given a 50/50 chance of survival. God continues to see me through His plans. I have faith in His plans and I think this has helped me.

4.) Laugh Factory – I think this might be in the spectrum of laughing attribute, but having fun in life is important. In my family we believe laughter is the best form of medicine. I can testify that it definitely is! When I was in the hospital I always had family around and they did a great job, we laughed a lot. I like to play around because I think it helps to keep us young at heart.

3.) Loyalty – as a Taurus, this is a characteristic of the astrological sign. I have never and would never even consider cheating. I was cheated on in my last marriage and I was devastated by it. I wasn’t going to let it keep me down though (I had the belief that I would be married forever – because I actually meant the oath I pledged to the Lord.) When I am in a relationship, it is monogamous. Any relationship, family or friends, I would never intentionally hurt anyone.

2.) Strength – my strengths are like well weathered rocks facing a raging ocean just aching to claim, to consume my forms. Time and time again life can lick and lap at you, trying to beat you down.  Strength is the ability to get back up after a fall. There was this great article I had read a couple years ago referencing God’s love.  Someone had asked why God allows us to fall and the response was that God walks with us always, like a father walking with his son. He may not be able to prevent the fall, but he is always there to help you back up. Strength to me is being able to endure this crazy world, we live in a fast passed, high stress society. I think each day when we go to bed we should thank God (or whatever name you use) for the strength we were blessed with and pray for tomorrow.

1.) Unconditional Love – I remember talking to someone once and asked them a question (I can’t remember now what my question was) I remember them saying that it was because of my big heart. I think this world can be a cruel place for someone who feels, has empathy, and cares about so much.  You almost have to build these filters in your mind to help you to deal with society and the negativity in the environment. For me, unconditional love is demonstrated by God’s love. He loved us so much that He sacrificed to save us of our sins. I think this is why people yell at me so much about caring for everyone else first. It’s a love that resonates from your soul, majestically consuming, and then embracing life.

There are so many great stories in the Bible about unconditional love. One that I studied before was a story of a man who had three sons. Long story short, two of the sons worked hard to impress their father, while the third son left the family to explore the world (I believe). Anyway, eventually the third some makes his way home and the father greet him with open arms. Even though his son caused him pain, he loved him more. Something that was really important that I have learn is that we are human-beings, not doings. 

Until next time or the next… dream

K.E.Nowinsky

Goingoffdreams.com

March Blog Challenge Day 14

March Blog Challenge

Day 14: what’s on your iPod?

March 14, 2013

My Top 10 Favorite Songs on my iPod

10.) Muse – The Resistance (2009): “Undisclosed Desires”

9.) Janet Jackson – Janet (1995): “IF”

8.) Mary Prankster - Blue Skies over Dundalk (1998): “Tits & Whiskey”

7.) Adel – 21 (2011): “Rolling In the Deep”

6.) Christina Aguilera – Stripped (2002): “Beautiful”

5.) Aaliyah – Romeo Must Die Soundtrack (2000): “Try Again”

4.) Pink – Missundaztood (2001): “Get the Party Started”

3.) Nicole Nordeman – Recollection (2007): “What If”

2.) Evanescence – The Open Door (2006): “Call Me When You’re Sober”

Patsy Cline

1.) Patsy Cline – The Ultimate Collection (1998, song originates 1968): “Today, Tomorrow, and Forever”

Until next time or the next... dream
K.E.Nowinsky
goingoffdreams.com

March Blog Challenge Day 5 Movies!!

March Blog Challenge

Day 5: favorite movies you never get sick of watching

March 5, 2013 

Movies – now this is something that I can really get into.  Most of us have been watching movies for more years than we invested in our own education.  My love of this form of entertainment stems from the need of escape.  When life can be stressful, I just popped in a movie and can clear my mind to a state of lethargic ignorance.  So here it is, my top ten (although it could probably be more like top 50 if I could) favorite movies that I never get sick of watching. 

Top Ten Favorite Movies 

10.) Super Troopers (2001) – Directed by Jay Chandrasekhar, this comedy is developed by the Broken Lizard Comedy Team, its other members that are also in the movie are Erik Stolhanske (Rabbit), Steve Lemme (Mac), Kevin Heffernan (Farva), and Paul Stoter (Foster).  Fiercely funny, this comedy leaves me in stitches every time I watch it.

9.) The Prince of Egypt (1998) – Watching this movie, each time, I feel this emotional connection.  From the immensely talented cast to the music, it just grabs my breath and doesn’t release it until it’s over.  One of the scenes that I look forward to every single time I watch it is when Moses parts the waters. 

8.) Little Women (1994) – This movie set the industry afire with Winona Ryder’s acting possibilities.  She led an all-star cast including a future Batman (Batman Begins 2005), Mary Jane Watson (Spider-Man 2002), and Carrie Masterson (Homeland 2011).  Leading the young cast is Susan Sarandon, an acting goddess that has given so many outstanding performances in her filmography career.

7,) Disney Animated Features: when I was younger this would have been number one, hands down.  Being more mature, I didn’t want to do a top ten of only Disney movies (I totally could though).  Among the list would include Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Aladdin, The Lion King, Pocahontas, and Mulan (just to name a few).

6.) Encino Man (1992) – I can’t tell you how many times I watched this movie during my high school years.  This movie was my gateway toward my love for Brendan Frazer.  Full of the 90’s quirky comedy, this story introduces you to Link (like, the missing link) who was a caveman that became a Popsicle and defrosted by Sean Astin (Dave).  When I watch this movie, it is just a fun time.

5.) Cold Mountain (2003) – Another all-star cast, this movie follows Jude Law, Nicole Kidman, and Renee Zellweger during the American Civil War. It doesn’t just pull at your heart strings; it takes them out and uses them to pluck a harmonious blend of drama with tragic human stories.

4.) Meet Me in St. Louis (1944) – Judy Garland leads this cast through the life and times in the 1900’s before the World Fair.  Every time I hear “ding-ding-ding goes the trolley” my heart literally does zing and metaphorically jump with delight.

3.) Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (1954) – I couldn’t tell you when the first time I watched this movie was, but I can tell you that I have seen it many times since.  The story, music, and acting are combined to produce that magic of MGM movies during the era.  My favorite scene is when the brothers are singing of their loneliness.  This movie holds a special place in my heart.

2.) The Goonies (1985) – I have never met a person that doesn’t like this movie.  Including Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, and Corey Feldman this movie gives the viewer an experience of adventure with great laughs and leaves you in childlike wonder of the possibilities. 

1.) Jurassic Park (1993) – Every time I see that this movie is on, I will immediately tune-in.  I can’t get enough of the dinosaurs and dramatic goodness.  I just read the other day, someone had posted something to the effect of – just admit it, when you see water in a cup shaking you think a dinosaur will come crashing through (why yes, yes I do!). 



This reaffirmed that I am a movie fan, I have always loved to watch movies, and I hope that I always will find the enjoyment within them.  There are so many other movies that I can’t resist watching when they are on like Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back, 50 First Dates, Sherlock Holmes, The Avengers or most of the comic book to movie franchises, but I don’t want to waste anymore of your valuable time.

Until next time or the next… dream

K.E.Nowinsky

Goingoffdreams.blogspot.com

Goingoffdreams.com

Find my book on Amazon “Going off Dreams” that has been called “apocalyptic fantasy” that fans are eagerly anticipating the next book due out later this spring.

March Blog Challenge Day 3

March Blog Challenge

Day 3: What makes you happy?

March 3, 2013



Often in our lives we focus on the negative aspects, the things we don’t have, and the proverbial why questions.  Why Me?  We all do it because we are programmed to be consumers and self-absorbed.  How do I know this? I actually learned this in my Sociology class.  My theory is that negativity breeds more negativity and vice versa, positivity cultivates positive perspectives.  Hence, counting our blessings can remind us of the good in our lives.

One way of working through this is journaling.  Write down what upset you for that day or something you said negatively about yourself.  Women are horrible at degrading ourselves (my thighs are too fat – etc.)  So, for every negative thing – write two positive.  Give it some time and I promise you – your perspective will be more positive and you will have a happier outlook.

 

So now, what makes me happy?  Even though I have been to hell and back a few times, I know I am blessed, and this helps me get through my days.  So much makes me happy – so in order to deliberate and not waste too much of your time – I’ll do a “Top 10” list.

Top 10 Reasons I’m Happy

10.) They seem to be few and far between – but, those great moments in life where everything just seems right.  Where the rollercoaster of life is in the good parts - the only thing about the rollercoaster theory is that with the good there is bad.  So, you are inevitably anticipating the bad (this will lead to anxiety – a toxin and fuels negativity).  Rather, I just enjoy it and accept it.  I do say ‘out of something bad comes something good’ and that is because you take the bad you learn from it, creating good.  Think of the rollercoaster theory and ups and downs with loopy loops; where the latter is more of an upward scaling graph.

9.) Security. This will mean different things to different people as well.  For me it means security in a quality of life.  Independency: being able to live under my own roof.  Monetarily: having the money to pay bills and to survive.  Knowledge: educating yourself, being proactive, and having perception or awareness.  

8.) Writing. Obviously I enjoy writing; I didn’t always enjoy it though.  I am a stubborn person so growing up when my mother kept trying to tell me to pursue writing; of course I wasn’t going to listen to her.  I had to learn for myself, follow my own path, much like Jonah and the Whale.

7.) Relaxing.  A good stretch in bed or on the couch, time away on vacation, or meditating out in nature; or at least this is what relaxing means to me.

6.) Pampering. Not to be confused with relaxing.  Pampering is doing something for yourself that will make you feel better about yourself.  For me, it would be a manicure, pedicure, or getting a message. 

5.) Movies.  For as long as I can remember, I can escape through movies.  I’ve always enjoyed watching movies.  Growing up I loved Disney movies (I still love them).  As I am more mature now I have many, many favorite movies.  I would also include TV in this category too, because I can definitely get lost in my favorite shows (top two: The Walking Dead and Once Upon a Time).

 

4.) Music. In no way to I consider myself knowledgeable in this category.  I can put on certain music and it will make me feel better.  Especially if I need to clean the house (which I really don’t like) it will motivate me and the next thing I know I’m dancing around the house feeling joyous.

3.) Friends. As long as it’s not a toxic relationship! You know who your true friends are (they’ll always be there for you.)  Defining “be there for you” is personal. I think it involves someone that (while others might write you off) this person doesn’t and makes sure they are there for you both mentally and physically.  Mentally – friends need to talk (it’s the cheapest therapy) and it can’t be one way (you have to listen and talk to each other).  Physically – I think making the effort. 

2.) Family.  I was raised with strong family morals that are instilled within me and I cherish the great memories that I have. As I matured I was able to appreciate and grasp the blessing within the spectrum – so many other people are not nearly as blessed, and I am truly grateful for this. (I do include my pets and very, very old and good friend’s family.)

1.) Faith, hope and love… and above these is LOVE.  I love God above all.  What makes me happy? Unconditional love makes me happiest.

 

Until next time or the next… dream

~ K.E.Nowinsky

www.goingoffdreams.com

March Blog Challenge Day 4

March Blog Challenge

Day 4: your favorite childhood memory

March 4, 2013

 

This was actually a hard one for me to pin-point.  I have many fond memories of my childhood.  Like I mentioned in yesterday’s challenge, I have been very blessed to have grown up with the family that I have.  The challenge states memory not memories so I don’t think it would be fair if I did another “Top 10” or anything other than a singularly response.  However, I am all about breaking through conformity.   

Top 10 Favorite Childhood Memories

In order to give this top list a proper perspective, I think I should mention that most of my family (on my mother’s side) lived on the same street. Many of my favorite memories include those that I grew-up closest with.

10.) Roof Volley: My cousin Josh and I were the closest in age and he lived across the street from me. During the time when we weren’t in school and the weather cooperated, we would grab a volley ball (or any bouncy ball) and head up to my grandparent’s; whom lived next door to my parent’s. We would throw the ball up onto the roof and volley the ball.  Eventually, when my parents bought a real volley ball net, we migrated toward that (especially since our Poppop started to yell at us for using his roof!)

9.) Building Forts: We had pine trees lining the right side of my parent’s property.  There were a few that were lined in the back and faced a farmer’s field.  We would cut down some of the lower branches on the back side and it created a nice tuck-a-way fort.

8.) Cloud Gazing: Behind my parent’s house, on the edge of their property where it connected with a farming field, there was this slight dip.  It was perfectly comfortable to lay on your back looking up into the roaming blue abyss.  Cloud gazing consists of trying to associate what the cloud resembles.  I use to incorporate this when I did art projects with the student’s I use to work with. We would take a blue sheet of construction paper, and then put some white paint in the middle, or wherever they wanted to on the paper (not too much paint).  Then fold the paper in half and then we would all discuss what we thought the shape looked like.

7.) Road Trips: We didn’t go on many family vacations, but when we did it was memorable.  We use to play car games, like spotting license plates, and whoever found the furthest state won the game.  One of my most favorite memories was once year (I don’t remember where we were going) but we were all in the car and my sister and I started making funny faces at cars driving by. They expressions would make us laugh, and then we would show what face we made, and then we roared with laughter.  That is one of my cherished memories I hold dear.

6.) Warm Evenings: In the spring and early summer, another one of my favorite past times involved the family gathering on my grandparent’s porch.  We would play games and when we were resting we enjoyed each other’s company. Yet another, very near and dear cherished memories that I hope I carry with me always.

5.) Snow Days! Most children (and school staff) love a good snow day! It takes you away from the mundane and it gives you that needed day to play free.  Full of cold goodness, hot chocolate, and snow ball fights.  The memory I hold dear involves my cousins and I outback of my parent’s house, it had snowed so much that we were able to actually dig tunnels in the snow and crawl through them.  It was exhausting, but that’s not what I remember; I remember having my cousins there and all of us playing, cooperating, and having a blast.

4.) Family Visits: I have memories of anticipating out of state relatives visiting.  I didn’t get to see them like I did the rest of my family.  My parents have a bay window in the front of their house.  The nights I knew they were going to arrive, I would wait and watch every car driving by, waiting to catch the blinking lights signaling that they were here, and getting ready to pull into the driveway.

3.) Thanksiging: For the holiday dinner my mom’s side of the family along with some friends of the family, would all gather across the street at my uncle’s home.  We had the traditional turkey, grown up’s table, and the kiddie table.  The entire – rag’tag’band of cousin’s sitting at one table, laughing, and having a good time together – that’s the love I have been raised with, Godly love.

2.) Easter: My favorite Easter memory was when we would wake up Easter morning and went to see our baskets, anticipating the gifts and candy.  Instead, we found a note – of where our basket could be found.  We would go to the next spot and find another note, this continued for a while, and then finally we found our baskets.  However, I couldn’t tell you what was in the baskets.  What I remember the most were the smiles, joking around, and the fun we had running around the house going from clue to clue.

1.) Christmas: Not that I want my most cherished memories to be of material possessions.  Yet, Christmas morning was always a very special day. When you started to blink awake, immediately it slams into you what the significant is.  I would go and wake up my parents who would plead for more time having stayed up late the night before perfecting the magical scene.  The music playing in the background flashes from the numerous pictures, and a lot of laughter captured.  The memory I have was the Christmas when my parent’s displayed our gifts on the white shelves (assembled) that they had gotten us.  My shelves were from top to bottom covered in Barbie dolls, clothes, and more. 

After writing this, it made me realize a few things.  One, that I truly love my family and will always love and cherish each and every one of them.  Two, how blessed I am to have these great memories with my parent’s and my sister. Three, how much nature was incorporated with my childhood – it is something that I think is missing in a lot of adolescence’s lives today.

Until next time or the next… dream

~ K.E.Nowinsky

www.goingoffdreams.com
http://goingoffdreams.blogspot.com