Literature: Looking for Rachel Wallace

   Good morning dear readers, and I hope that it's a little bit warmer wherever you are compared to the chilly Ottawa area. The weather can't seem to decide what season it is so it keeps wavering between winter and spring. However, on these colder days, we are provided with the opportunity to stay in and curl up with a good book (unless you have to go to school or work like I do). I've decided to go ahead and write a literature post this morning since there hasn't been one a little while.
   On this fine Friday, I will not be talking specifically about a genre, a literary prize or even a specific author; I will simply be talking about a book. "Looking for Rachel Wallace" by Robert B. Parker is a novel I had to read for my Mystery Novel class, and I was surprised that I had liked it so much. By it's simplistic cover, and somewhat tacky description in the back, I wasn't sure I was going to be enjoying it, but happily to my surprise, I was proved wrong.
   This book is quite funny, with dry humour and a man named Spenser who has tons of machismo and lives by his code of honour. The story takes place in a time where things were slowly getting different, but they weren't completely accepted in society. You can notice a mix of old and new ways as you are taken to different locations because of Spenser's new job, which is being Rachel Wallace's body guard. At first you don't know if there will be a crime or not, because you get captured in the witty banter that is continually taking place between Spenser, Rachel and whoever else gets brought into their conversations. But once a crime is committed and Spenser needs to jump into action, the story actually gets better (I didn't even know that it was possible).
   I won't go too much into detail because I want you dearest readers, to grab a copy of the book and read to your heart's content. It is relatively small enough so it could even be done as a "one-a-day-er". Take the time to read at least once a day because every time you open a book, you open your mind.

 

K.P.H.

Love: DIY Projects

   Good morning dear readers! I have already started to seize the day and I'm hoping that you are doing the same. Being a student, you learn little tips and tricks on how to save money, but at the same time, I also get to do a lot of things for myself. I've become quite the little crafty person, as well as a reasonable good cook.
   So this morning I thought I might share a couple of interesting ideas that could help you out, and personalize your everyday life. Whether you are just asking for a personal touch, or trying to switch things up, doing it yourself is the best way to do it.
   If you're just trying to save a few bucks, you've got many options. If you are trying to make a new space your own, there are always plenty ways to accomplish that as well. So make the most out of the little things, because in the end, it is those that you will remember.

Create your own story

From plain to perfect

 

Out with the old in with the new

 



K.P.H.

Laughter: Ode to a Dying Generation/ Death to YOLO

   Good morning dear readers, and happy hump day! The week is halfway done, and we're on the home stretch for the weekend. I must say that I'm excited to have those few days off so that I can catch up on my homework, (I know it's not that exciting but it must be done). On this fine morning, I thought about posting one of my own songs since I haven't put one up in a while.
   The title of the entry is also the title of the song; it might seem morbid, but it is essentially my interpretation of what the younger generations are turning into, (and that's including mine) but I don't see myself similar to the people in my own generation. I always said that I was born in the wrong one, so to make up for that few decades that I missed, I've developed what people call and "old soul"; no it is not a disease, it just gives me a different perspective from most people my age.
   With all of that said, I won't go into too much detail since I do talk a little bit in the video before I start playing the song so I don't want to repeat myself too much. On this last note, I've never been a fan of the YOLO concept, because I think it just gives the youth today an excuse to do really stupid stuff and blame it on a shady idea. I'd much prefer the similar, but dignified Carpe Diem. Therefore my dearest readers, take chances and live you life to the fullest. Cherish every moment and savour the time you have here because you never know how much longer you've got; just don't be stupid about it, okay? So go ahead and live in a way that your life is a story that everyone will want to read.

K.P.H.

Laughter: The Happy Dance

   Good day dearest readers. Now that the dreaded Monday has passed, we must all face the hurdle that is Tuesday. Recently I've had some really great news, (that I cannot disclose until all of the details have been worked out) and when I first got them, I was so happy and shocked that I started to dance uncontrollably after hysterically jumping up and down.
   There is something special in a happy dance; it is raw emotion exploding out of you in an uncontrolled frenzy. You dance in excitement, and you don't care who sees you. It's one of those moments that your moves (whether you like doing the running man or the stanky leg) are never questioned. If you don't know what your special move is... then you need to have a momentous event to discover your inner dancer. I myself am more of a jumper, mixed in with some foot flutter; I can't help it, it just happens.
   So when excitement strikes, don't hold back in fear of being embarrassed by your inner dancer, let it out because you deserve it. You just got something that you others didn't,  so celebrate your success! Just remember what Alan Watts said: "the only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance."

K.P.H.

Love: Styles that Make a Difference

   Good Morning dearest readers! I am writing my last post from home since I am going back to Ottawa today. This has been a short, but much appreciated amount of time at home, but now it's time to get back to work.
   This morning, I thought I'd talk about my kind of style; the things I like to wear, patterns I like and what not, since many people seem to wonder. If you'd like to put words to it, some people will call my style vintage on some days and the other times will call it sporty; (heck if I know because clothes are clothes). I just like to feel comfortable, yet still have pieces that are different and make a statement. I have a variety of vests that have been personalized and customized; I have vintage hats, and feathered shoes, but some of the things that help me stand out (and that are helping a cause) are my accessories.
   I have mentioned to you all before the impact that Free the Children has had on my life, and how through their values and good deeds, I am inspired to do the same. Well, Free the Children sells hand made merchandise crafted by the hands of the people in the villages that they help. They also make beautiful bamboo t-shirt where some supporting celebrities have even created certain designs. It continues with the concept of do good to feel good, but now it also helps to make you look good. I have also found another site that sells great bracelets that are both original and inspiring at the same time.
   Just because you want to make a difference, or are going through a phase where luxury cannot be part of your every day life, the merchandise sold on theses sites help you to not feel guilty about looking your best. So now you can not only influence people with your style, but you can influence them with your good deeds too. Style is what makes us stand out in a crowd when so many others can look like us.

Good Works - Jewelry

Me to We - Artisans

Me to We - Style

K.P.H.

Love: The Family You Choose

   Hello dearest readers, I hope you all had the chance to sleep well after a busy Saturday night. My reading week is coming to a close, and if yours is too, take today to really relax; if yours hasn't even started yet, make a list of the things you want to do because believe me when I say that time goes by fast. On this fine morning, things have been fairly good, but there will be rough patches once in a while when there's smooth sailing.
   As I am a very positive person, when things that aren't so positive start to happen, it might be difficult sometimes to see the glass half full. Since I didn't want to write about what was going wrong, I thought to write about how I was making it right; (and believe me it's not something I can do on my own). When the going gets the tough, the tough get their best friends. Some people might call the family they choose their best friends as well, but for me there is still a small distinction.
   The way I see it, you have the people you can tolerate and those who you are friends with, but not in a very close way. You have your best friends; those people with whom you are very close with, can share anything with and make the time for. Then you have the family you choose; these people are the ones that no matter what happens between you, you work through it. You'd be willing to drop anything to help them, and you are always ready to listen. And then the last people in your life is your actual blood related family. I am fortunate to have some in all of these categories, which gives me the perfect balance to my life.
   I've had a rougher time, but I am grateful to have had my family I chose sticking by my side, as well as my actual family. So I tell you my dearest readers, choose right because these people will be the ones to pull you out of the darkness when you can no longer find the way out. And please know, that "in order to carry a positive action we must develop here a positive vision." -Dalai Lama

K.P.H.

Laughter: You Don't Need Words To Be Funny

   Good morning my dear readers. On this fine Saturday morning, I will be doing all the talking since I'll be showing you a silent comedy video today. There have been classics such as Charlie Chaplin, but there have also been fairly modern ones, of whom I enjoy their comical genius. Today's link will send you to a more modern comedian of this discipline.
   Mr. Bean is a beloved figure who is more than sometimes misunderstood and awkward. My grand-father used to let us watch episodes with him on his big TV in the basement of their house. Then, this privilege almost became like a sort of tradition where every time we go over to visit, the night must finish with at least one episode of Mr. Bean.
   Rowan Atkinson is a very talented actor and brings the character of Mr. Bean to life without the need for any words except the pronunciation of his name every once in a while. So without further ado, I invite you to laugh loudly and wholeheartedly at this quiet comedian.

Invisible Drum Kit

Dance Mr. Bean

K.P.H.

Love: What You Need to Know

   Good morning my dearest readers. I've been hearing from multiple people how hard it is to find that special someone, and I've seen more than often, that people are being taken advantage of by someone who they thought was their world. This morning's post is to remind all of you who have either been in this spot, or might find yourself here in the future. "Your value doesn't decrease based on someone's inability to see your worth" - Anonymous.
   Even though it might be hard to admit how great you really are, if the person you're with can't seem to see it for themselves, you shouldn't have to remind them either. If the person is so wrapped up in what they want, they've obviously been able to love themselves, but aren't mature enough to be able to sense other's needs and love them the way they deserve. There have always been people who like to play a game in love rather than enjoy the company of the person their with; there have always been people who are so passionately in love with the idea of love, that they fall hard for whoever will smile at them, making the affection they give simply a repeated routine; and there have always been the people who shut everybody out, because they don't want to fall victim to the inconsistency of the first two. Once in a while, there will be few from another group, that are honest, and whole heartedly want to find that special someone, but they are doubted due to the other three types of people. I'm not saying any of this to try to discourage people, I'm just saying this in advance so that you can prepare your heart for the world that's out there.
   Included below, I've posted a link to a video that should make you consider your worth in this world, because no matter what people say my dear readers, you are here for a reason and not just a season.

A Message For Girls

A Message For Boys

K.P.H.

Literature: Nobel Prize in Literature

   Hello dearest readers, and a good morning to you all. I am finally home and the feeling is great. The water seems more quenching, the bed is comfier, the food is more savory, (and not to say that all of these things aren't so satisfying in Ottawa, it's just that everything seems better when you are home). So I am glad to be home, and because of my 8 hour bus ride yesterday, I got my inspiration for this morning's post. Like I had mentioned before, this semester, I have quite the reading list to accomplish. And I am making enough progress to be caught up, but not quite ahead yet.
   Yesterday, I finished 3/4 of Alice Munro's book "Who Do You Think You Are?". It is a collection of short stories that all follow each other; so their basically entertaining as individuals, but even more so as a whole. The reason for the title of my entry, is that Alice Munro (a Canadian) is the recipient of the Nobel Prize in Literature this year, so it was fitting that in my Canadian Literature class that we read something from a Canadian that is the face of literature this year.
   So if you hadn't had the chance to read any of her works, I encourage that you do (because why not support Canadian pride), but her works are quite gripping as well. So if you're stuck on deciding what to read next, why not show some national pride and support, by picking up a copy of any Alice Munro book and read your day away.

K.P.H.
  

Laughter: Bus Travel

   Good morning my dearest readers. This morning's entry will be short and sweet since I am on a time crunch too; I final get to go home for a few days now, and I can't wait since I have been feeling kind of home sick lately. As I get ready to depart for my long 8 hour bus ride, I thought that it might be helpful to give you some tips, if ever you find yourself in a similar situation.
   Bus travel is not like flying, driving or even taking the train; it's a completely different experience in itself. Some people might see it as being creepy and dirty, but that's just because they probably got on the wrong bus in the first place, so of course everything will seem grim. Just like in prime real estate, the comfort of your trip relies on location, location, location. I always like to sit in the seats further up front, (and by up front I don't mean right next to the bus driver but when you see the emergency exit windows, that's technically half the bus, so stay in the front half and you'll be alright). Plus, the bonus of being up front is that often times, there'll be older people who are so sweet and kind; if you don't like chatters, then maybe you can move to the back, but if you simply tell them that you've got homework to do or that you'd like some sleep, they'll be nice enough to leave you be. I even had an older lady buy me a juice once at the stop because I had let her borrow my phone so that she could call home and give them progress updates.  Second, I personally love the window seat because contrary to popular belief, there is a lot more room, and you get to have the scenic route the whole way home. Lastly, if you have a long trip like I do, you're going to have to eat at some point. So if you want to bring your own snacks on board, you are more than welcomed to, but I know that some of the routes up north stop at these little dinners and home-owned stores so the food is always fresh and good.
   Whether you are planning a trip and are looking into different options, don't cross off bus travel right away. Though it might not have gotten the best reviews in the past, it is slowly starting to redeem itself. So I ask you to remember what Ralph Waldo Emerson said: "Though we travel the world over to find the beautiful, we must carry it with us or we find it not."

K.P.H.

Literature: Writing the Final Chapter

   Well hello dear friends and readers. I hope you all enjoyed your family day yesterday; I myself was stuck at home doing homework so that when I finally go home to my house up north, I don't have to bring homework. I've had the chance to finish a book and a midterm already (I'm on a roll)!
   But with all of this time stuck in the apartment, I had time to continue to type one of the stories I had finished previously. When I needed a break from reading, I'd write. Last night I finished writing chapter 28, and now I simply have one chapter left to type before the entire book is complete. It's a kind of bittersweet moment when that happens since it is a relief for the long journey to be coming to a positive end, but you invest yourself so much in a story that you become part of it, and as it ends, you feel like so does your own story. It's like you chose a character in the story, and you both share the same fate at the book's end.
   It's always an odd feeling for me, because I imagine the outcome of a book, and I could remember pretty much everything about it as I wrote, but the second that I finish typing it, it's like it all vanished from my memory and I must read all again to remember everything except for the main event. It is a funny feeling, but it makes me read, and re-read my stories over and over again; therefore the experience never really dies and it becomes real for me all over again.
   So if ever you decide to write your own story, be prepared for the joy, and the forgetfulness that comes along with a mind full of stories; but be reassured dearest readers, you can always read them back into your mind and heart.

K.P.H.

Love: Olympic Fever

   Gooooood morning dear readers! This morning's post will be short and sweet, unlike the event that is advertised in the title. I'll admit that I love the Olympics (summer and winter), just because you get people from all over the world competing in events that should defy the laws of basic human nature, and yet we find ourselves cheering people on as they attempt to do so.
   It doesn't matter which country you are from, the Olympics bring people together and they share their nation's pride. We all have our favorite event, but we will still watch all of the others as well. The opening ceremony is always an incredible sight, and it's always interesting to see how the hosting country will depict their nation's history in such a short amount of time. So not only is there great event, there's even a show! I'm also always really interested to see the future location of the next Olympics, as they name it at the end of it all.
   Since I'm Canadian, I'll admit that I'm very proud of the athletes from my country because we are doing very well in events, and we are taking home multiple medals already (and the games aren't even done yet). But, it's not only about the medals; the fact that some athletes simply qualify is incredible, because they are still considered Olympians. I like playing sports myself, but I'm pretty sure that even if I tried hard, I couldn't qualify, because some people train and acquire the skill (which is something I could do with lots of discipline), but a lot of these people also have talent (and I don't have much of that in the sports department).
   Whether you are from Canada, from a European country, or are lucky enough to have a dual citizenship, feel free to cheer on not only the athletes from your home country, but those who had the courage to participate as well. Stay true, stay proud!

K.P.H.

Laughter: Make your own Movie Theatre

   Buenos dias mi amigos! What a fine Sunday morning it is in the beautiful capital city. On this 41st post, I'd like to take the time to thank all of you, my dear readers, who have been staying with me, and kept coming back to hear the things I have to say. I like to write fiction because when I write in different narrations, I am putting myself in the shoes of a completely different person; and people like to read those stories. But when my mother told me to take a chance, and to write about something that I am truly passionate about (in my own life), I never thought I'd get so much positive feedback so quickly. For that dearest readers, I am truly humbled and thankful that you are so interested in the person that I am, not just those I create.
   Now, with that said, let's get on to today's laughter post. I haven't explained a funny story in a while since the last laughter post was tied to technical problems with Google and the other led you to a comedian; today the comedy is all from me and my roommates.
   Tuesday night this past week, Riley had wanted to watch a funny movie with us, and we had agreed to (thinking he had it on DVD), but then Riley tells us that we'll have to move from our current spots, to a place where we could all see. Katie and I looked at each other confused when Riley left the room, but we partly understood when he came back holding his little laptop in his hands. He placed it on the footstool in the center of the room and pressed play; (wasn't bad enough that the screen was small, but now the volume was so minimum, we could barely hear the movie). So Riley then moved the footstool closer to the couch, and sat in between Katie and I, while I went to get an attachment that would let us insert two pairs or headphones. Katie and I both had one headphone, while Riley had both of the other halves of ours. Now, we could all see and hear the movie, but when we looked at each other, we were all squished together on two cushions of the couch, leaning in to watch the small, detailed screen while the sound was only blasting from one ear. The movie was good, but our set up (in all its impracticality) left us only with sore joints and a funny story to tell.
   What is the moral of the story, you might ask? Well truth is, there isn't really one; just don't be stupid and if you can successfully manage to watch a movie on your computer alone, chances are, you won't find the same success by adding two more people to that equation. So take time to think my dearest readers, but also be spontaneous because if at first you don't succeed, it'll be a funny story to tell later on.

K.P.H.

Literature: Written Word to Spoken Word

   Good day dearest readers, and I wish you an even better morning! On this fine Saturday, I thought about writing a literature post since I haven't done one of those in a little while. Today's title refers to poetry; a beautiful method of expressing one's emotion while painting a mental picture with clever wording and figures of speech, (it's a lot more fun than what I just described).
   The first type of writing that I had ever done, was writing poetry; as I got older, I graduated to speeches, essays and then my stories. It is also thanks to my early years in poetry that I am able to write songs now. The one thing that I have started to enjoy very much, but still lack the courage to do myself is Spoken Word Poetry. It's one thing to read the author's (or poet's) thoughts in your own inner voice, but it's another to actually hear the poem the way it was actually meant to be heard. Some of my favorite poets that I've taken much interest to lately are Shane Koyczan and Jefferson Bethke, but I won't shy away from a new poet, because I feel that everyone has something to be said and therefore deserve to be heard. I want the same from others, so in return, I'm open to new suggestions and new eye-opening philosophies.
   So this morning, I've included two up-lifting spoken word poets, and their messages are quite strong. And remember what Robert Frost said: "poetry is when an emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words." So seize the day, and think of the words that define the one thing that speaks to you.

What Speaks to You - UNITY

To This Day - Shane Koyczan

K.P.H.

Love: What's Not to Love?

   Good morning my lovely readers. Today could be considered a special day, because it is a kind of holiday created by society to celebrate everything that's red, heart-shaped and related to love. This is probably one of the trickiest holidays, because it could really be a hit or miss kind of situation, (I couldn't help it, I had to do a love entry for this day). If you're single, there's this need to bask in your independence and remember that you are a strong individual who doesn't need someone else to complete you; if you're in a relationship, there's this overhanging pressure to rise to the occasion and created the perfect day, (seems like there's no middle ground, right?). I myself am single and quite happy with my life. I'm not saying that I don't need a man to make me happy, I just haven't found the right one yet; and there's really no rush because I am happy with who I am.
   When it comes to finding that special someone, don't rush into something too quick because you're afraid of being alone, but don't push someone away because you're afraid to miss out on opportunities you could get if you were single. There's a balance to achieve to get a happy life, and the first starts by accepting who you are, and loving that person; (let's be honest, how can you love someone else, and let them love you if you aren't happy with the person that you are). I'm not going to lecture you, or give you advice on how to find that perfect person, because I myself have not had that much luck in the love department, but I have always been happy with the person that I am. I find this personal satisfaction by setting goals, (some easy and others not so much), and accomplishing them no matter how long it takes.
   So on this Valentine's Day, I wish you all a good one; single or not, you deserve to feel special today. People will complain about this holiday, saying that you should tell the people you love, that you love them every day, throughout the entire year, but this day is like a special reminder to keep on doing it anyways. But if you feel like today will be a bad day, there are ways to change that. With that said, I thought of putting in a mix of different things, like pictures, songs and links to videos that will put a smile on your face and make you feel like the special person that you really are. Much love,

Instructions for a Bad Day!

Cute - Stephen Jerzak (Perfect Valentine's Day Song/funny)

K.P.H.

 

Literature: A Reading Blitz

   Good morning dearest readers. Google is still telling me that there is some kind of problem with the home page, but I will continue to try to write every day, regardless of what it tells me. So this morning, I thought I start things off a little bit slower since I wasn't able to write much this week.
   My reading week is coming up, which means I basically get a one week vacation to relax or to catch up on my assignments, (I plan on trying to accomplish both). So in a small amount of time, I am going to try to read as much as I can, while still allowing myself time to see all of my friends and family back home. Therefore, I will be trying to finish the Great Gatsby, and I will try to complete Who Do You Think You Are by Alice Munro and The Tin Roof Blowdown by James Lee Burke; I know I'm good and all at reading, but let's see if I'm this good.
   So on this fine Thursday morning, if you have a week off that's coming up, it's a great time to get ahead on your assignments or to read that book (or books) you've been wanting to finish. Make the time for the things that are worth it, and complete the things that you have to do because in the end, you need to learn how to prioritize what you want, with what you need.

K.P.H.

Laughter: Google Problems

   Good morning dear readers, this is just a quick apology on behalf of the lack of posts from the last couple of days, I'm trying to post this entry to be able to see if I can still do it. Apparently there are problems and therefore, I'm not able to post as much as I want to. I will let you know what it happening. Again my apologies.

K.P.H.

Laughter: Just a Quick Giggle

   Good evening my dear readers. I apologize for this entry later on in the day, but Google was not letting me post anything this morning; I think it didn't sleep well so it was temperamental this Monday morning, (and I thought I didn't enjoy Mondays).
   Since I have to cook dinner and concentrate on my homework, I'm only going to post a few funny pictures. Hope you enjoy this, and remember what Mark Twain said: "the human race has one really effective weapon, and that is laughter."

K.P.H.

Love: Roomie Day (C.T.W.)

   Happy Sunday morning dearest readers, hope you all didn't go too overboard last night. I myself had a wonderful day yesterday. I had read quite a lot on Friday and Saturday morning, so Katie and I decided to go do a little shopping, and meet up my roommate from last year for tea at this cute little tea store. We did this, but we proceeded to go to lunch, grab a cupcake for dessert and there was a free wine tasting just down the street (and we weren't going to pass that up!). All in all, it was worth it.
   We've decided that every once in a while, we were to have these kind of days to relax and not think about homework for the time that we're out. We have decided to name these days C.T.W. (it stands for cupcake, tea and wine). It was quite worth it to just veg out, to talk, and to not really think about anything ahead but tell tales of the past. If you're wondering why I'm only talking about Katie in this post up to now (since you all know that I have two roommates), the truth is that Riley wasn't really up for any of that. So instead, we decided to watch a scary movie with him and then we all ate dinner together.
   Having roommates is kind of like being in a committed relationship, (it is that in itself) but you get to know everything about a person; you get to know when they're down, when they want to talk or not. You see what they need to do to relax if they're stressed, and there's a lot of compromise involved too. It can be hard work sometimes, but it's also worth it all the time, (especially if you live with two great people like I am at the moment. PS, I loved my roommate from last year too, she was so funny).
   We don't always spend an entire day out; sometimes we simply go have dinner at the local diner down the street, or we'll go see a movie, or we'll stay in and watch a movie or a TV episode with dinner. We've also started our own tradition during the holidays; we have a roomie Christmas. We decorate the apartment, we get each other little gifts under 5$ to put in our stockings, and I make a nice dinner in which we all chipped in to buy the ingredients.
   If you are new to the whole roommate concept, make the best of it because these people are going to be part of your lives from a long time, and an even longer time if things work out well. Because one of the best things to do is to be living with your best friends.

K.P.H.

Laughter: Contageous Movie Quoting

   Good morning my dearest readers. Yes, it is finally Saturday and I have a feeling that most of you will not be reading this until later this afternoon, (because let's be honest, Saturday is one of the only days where it's okay to sleep in and veg out). And because last night my roommates and I hung out, and had roomie bonding time (it's when we play either a question game or a board game), we found out that Katie and mine's love for Disney movies is slowly transferring over to Riley whether he likes it or not.
   I had mentioned before that I love all that is Disney, and that love continues, but we now find ourselves quoting different movies. In every kind of situations, there is always a time and opportunity to quote a phrase from one of the many, many Disney movies. What has become even funnier for Katie and I, is that Riley finds himself quoting random parts of Disney as well, (especially from the movie Frozen since Katie and I have watched it more than once around Riley, and we are constantly singing the songs). Now when Riley tries to tell us to let something go, he goes on robotically singing in his monotone voice "Let it go", until Katie and I join in and finish the song.
   Now, whether Riley likes to admit it or not, we're influencing him. Maybe soon enough, he'll be quoting Aladdin or Cinderella, (Katie and I have already spoken most of the movie once or twice). So if you find yourself bursting out into song, or cleverly quoting a movie, just let it happen because it makes life that much more entertaining. There is nothing wrong with breaking out into song, (unless you're in a meeting or in an exam); in those circumstances, it would be best to wait until it's over before starting your musical.
   Therefore my dear readers, keep your heart light and your songs loud because "music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent." -Victor Hugo

K.P.H.
  

Literature: Mystery Novel Class

   Good morning my dear readers, I hope you are thinking of what you can put on your "I Am Grateful" sign so that I could add it to the video. I won't be bringing it up until the actual release date, which will be used as a kind of celebration for the blog; (we're on our way!).
   This morning I thought it might be interesting to talk about certain things you can do if there's a specific literary genre that you absolutely love. I myself love fiction (like I mentioned before), but I really like all of the different types of fiction as well, like fantasy, sci-fi, mystery and horror. Being a university student and having access to all kinds of different classes, I have learned and enjoyed both my Fiction of Horror class, and my Mystery Novel class this semester.
   I was lucky enough to have the same professor for both of those classes since she was absolutely phenomenal in her explanations. I've read and learned so many things not only because of the volume of books I had to read, but the vast selection as well. In my horror of fiction class, we studied some classics like Dracula, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Frankenstein; but we also read some more contemporary ones like I Am Legend and A Scent of New-Mown Hay. I won't even mention all of the titles I need to read for my Mystery Novel class, but I do have 8 to read. With this, I figured out that I really do enjoy horror fiction (I already loved the work of Dean Koontz and Stephen King) and it was fun to discover new authors, but I'm slowly getting back in the mood for mystery novels (because I've always loved Agatha Christie) and now I'm discovering other authors that I've come to like.
   With all of that said, if you really like something my dear readers, and you have the opportunity to turn it into a learning experience, go for it. You never know what you might learn, and you never know what kind of stories you'll discover.

K.P.H.

Love: The "I Am Grateful" Project

   Good morning my dearest readers. This morning I am calling upon you to help me for a future entry. Looking at my statistics for the blog, I am pleasantly surprised and utterly humbled to see that I've had 677 people up to now that have read my blog and listened to what I have said in a matter of time just short of a month. On this note, I've had the idea to make a video with the help of my readers (whether you choose to participate or not), as well as with the help of my family and friends.
   What I would like to do is compile a video of pictures of people holding up signs stating what they are grateful for. Yesterday, I was walking to the mall, and I passed by a homeless man, and I had nothing to give him; I myself was on my way to buy jeans. As I walked into the mall, I kept thinking about that man, and how cold it was, and then I thought about what my mother does; she keeps a Tim Horton's gift card in her purse, so that if ever she passes buy someone who needs it, she's prepared. So I ran down to the Tim Horton in the mall, and bought a gift card, to then run back outside and give it to the man who had on the biggest smile I had ever seen. I'm not trying to get recognition for this, but it made me happy to help out those who weren't as lucky as I am. I continued my day by going to work, and I found myself thinking of how lucky I really was, and how grateful I am to have all that I have.
   When my mother returned from her trip to Africa with Free the Children, she would describe to us her trip and show us pictures; the one word she would use to describe it all is GRATEFUL. Grateful for the eye opening experience; grateful for what she has and the life she has; grateful were the people they were helping; and grateful were Free the Children to have so many people who are willing to help. This is all to say that it is good to take a step back and appreciate what you have. Whether it is the roof over your head, the family and friends you have, your loving family pet, or the fact that you can read that vast collection of books in your room, we all have something to be grateful for.
   With that said, I invite you and encourage you to send me a picture of what you are grateful for and you will be featured in the "Love: I Am Grateful" post, and I will also be posting it on Youtube so that others can think of what they are grateful for by your actions. So send me your picture and show the world what you are grateful for because like Gilbert K. Chesterton said: "When it comes to life the critical thing is whether you takes things for granted or take them with gratitude." So answer my picture with your own.

K.P.H.

Literature: From No-Name to Known Name

   Hello my dear readers. We are now Wednesday, and the middle of the week which means that you only have roughly two days until you can spend your entire weekend reading if you wanted to (that's what I'll be doing). Today I thought about describing some of the steps I am taking or have taken to reach my goals. Every step higher, however small it may seem, is a step higher than where you were once before; progress is progress, and be grateful you're moving forward.
   First step to take if you want to be a writer, is to write something. You may think that, that is stupid advice, but instead of saying that you want to be known and complain about those that are successful, pick up a pen, or log onto your computer and write something down; (you have to do something to get something in return).
   Second step is to do a little bit of research. I myself have searched through lists and lists of not only Canadian publishers, but also American and European; I've even researched my fair share of literary agencies (they are not the same thing, but they both bring you to publishing). Now once you've done thorough research, and found out the companies that are looking for your genre and style of writing, send in some manuscripts!
   Third step, is an extra one that I'm taking. This one is geared toward writing competitions. I've entered a couple of competition up to now, and I plan on continuing to do so. This is the time to step out of your comfort zone and see what other genres you can write. I've discovered that I can write Creative Non-Fiction quite well, and this is coming from a fan of fiction. Trying new things can help too; I've even written a children's book, and though it was hard, I've been encouraged on many times to try to publish it because of its popularity with my reading panel. When I say "reading panel", it's really more like a select few people in my circle of family and friends that will be completely honest about my writing and give me constructive criticism so that I may better myself and my stories as well. And another thing I've done to practice my writing skills and get the feedback of the public, is to write this blog for you my dearest readers.
   And the fourth and final step, is to seize every possible opportunity that becomes available. I had mentioned the Writer-in-Residence program offered here at my university, and I am taking advantage of that; having an actual writer give me feedback so that I can make the necessary alterations and turn it into something that publishing companies will want, but forever keeping it as my own. If ever there is a book signing, go to it. In Sudbury Ontario, Margaret Atwood celebrates her birthday at Laurentian University every year, and it is this huge event where the community is invited to attend; I have done this and if you are from the area and like literature or writing, jump on this opportunity. There are so many things offered out there to help those who are willing to put in the work, you just need to take those steps.
   With my not-so secret to success unveiled, I invite to take these steps if you'd like, but this is what is helping me get closer to accomplishing my goal of becoming a writer. So dream big or dream small, but just know that your steps to climb will be equal in grandeur to the size of dream.

K.P.H.

Laughter: Animalistic Resemblance

   A good morning, you must have dearest readers, (that greeting was inspired by Yoda). On this fine Tuesday morning, which just so happens to be my least favorite day at school (just because of the amount of classes I have), why not tell a funny story to start off the day on a lighter note?
   Going to school in a different city is lots of fun, just because of all the extra opportunities attached to my program, but living on my own, away from home is a different story. It's not that it's hard, and it's not that it's easy, but there are things that are different when you are pushed into independence. A couple of things that are different here in the capital city, than my home town up north are the actual size of the city here (it's quite bigger than my own), the sheer number of activities and festivals to attend (there are some back home, but there are more like one a month, if that, rather than roughly one a week here), but just the environment is different too. The city has a smaller town feel, even if it is a large city. Like here, part of the scenery includes the presence of a little woodland animal that I'm not used to seeing back home; squirrels.
   The thing about squirrels is that they might look like dumb creatures, but they can be very intelligent; but with every species, there are some in both of those categories as well. In my new apartment, there are many squirrels that like to hang around, but there are especially three that we see on a recurring basis, and we've adopted them as our own. There is a medium sized, dark grey squirrel that we have attributed with Katie; half the time we see it running around looking for food, and climbing trees, and the other half we see it either just sitting on a branch or on the side of the fence. My squirrel is a small, hyperactive, ginger squirrel who climbs trees and every other surface at an incredible speed, but doesn't seem to have a destination in mind; it simply runs around like it's had one too many cup of coffee. The last squirrel is possibly the funniest, and it is Riley's. His squirrel is a large black squirrel that started off with half his tail gone, but with time, the end has grown out white. This squirrel will eat anything it can get its hands on, and if one of the trash cans aren't closed, he will take that all-he-can-eat buffet. He has also gotten so big that he has trouble climbing certain trees, and when he's perched up on smaller branches, they tend to bend, and some have even broken.
   People have said that often, a dog will resemble their owner; well with us, we have squirrels that resemble us. so Whether you like watching a show, going out or staying in and watching your squirrels, there's always something to keep you entertained. So think of something funny when you think you might be annoyed, and life will simply be that much more entertaining in the end. Enjoy your day dearest readers and always keep that glass half full!

K.P.H.

Love: What Warms a Heart

   Howdy dearest readers, how ya'll doin on this fine morning? (I thought that the accent on the greeting would spice things up a little for a Monday). Today, since nothing truly funny happened this weekend that's worth mentioning, and I'm still reading Robert B. Parker's book "Looking for Rachel Wallace" for a class, I haven't had any new material to comment on; so therefore I'm not writing a Literature or a Laughter post.
   Last night however, my roommates and I saw an add for beautiful chocolate labs for sale, and we just all melted at the thought of owning a puppy. Riley already has a dog back home and Katie has a cat, but I myself never had anything more than a fish, (it doesn't help that both my mother and my brother are allergic to fur and feathers either). We then proceeded to look through every adoption service, all of the shelter listings and looked at all of the dogs available. We started to consider the idea of adopting one, but we know that it can't be a possibility right now, but a hopeful one in the future. I myself absolutely love all kinds of animals and I can't wait to own my own.
   But since that isn't a possibility right now, I content myself by having a stuffed puppy, and I look at pictures of dogs, but also of my favorite animal, the wolf. I don't know if I like wolves so much because I like dogs, or the other way around. I have paintings, posters, a stuffed animal, jewelry and the list goes on; I can't help it, I just love them so much. I don't know if its their eyes that speak to me, or the beautiful color of their coats but there is something about the animal that in which I can feel a connection. I'm not trying to sound corny (or like a hippie) but I fee like the eyes of a wolf put me at ease (even if people say they are dangerous creatures). That is one thing that always confused me; why people are scared or ill at ease on seeing a wolf, or a bear, or even a great white shark. Those creatures wouldn't hurt us if we didn't disturb their territory, or their lives. They are simply beautiful creatures, (even in the film "The Grey", I liked those wolves); don't think me crazy or cynical, I just really, really like wolves.
   Whether it is a dog, or the picture of a wolf, I long for the day when I can own one of the animals in their family. Nothing warms a heart like someone or something that loves you back. So if you feel more comfortable having a real dog, or just the screen saver of one to make your day, they will always have that loyal, loving look for you dearest readers.

K.P.H.

Love: Spontaneous Vacations

   Good morning my dearest readers; since I barely slept all night, I got the chance to spend all of that wonderful time thinking about what to write about this morning, (a little bit of sarcasm implied, but not that much). One of the hardest things about trying to fall asleep is the fact that all of life's most pressing questions creep into your mind when you simply want it to be blank. With my motivation for today's post explained, let's proceed.
   I've always been one who loved to travel. Whether it was driving half and hour to visit a friend, or driving longer to see family or even travelling to another country; I am a pro-travel person. I actually picture myself only living in an area no more than ten years at a time because I want to experience as much of the world as I can. I will always return home to visit my family, and I hope to have a cottage on Manitoulin Island (because it is my favorite place on earth), but what I can't wait to do is take a spontaneous vacation. I'm not really picky when it comes to the concept; my mother and I talked about it and said when I'd be done school, if a travel company offered a great last minute package to a location wherever it may be, we'd jump on that opportunity. Don't get me wrong, I'm already planning a trip to Europe with my friend Gen for the summer of our graduation, and I also plan on going to Africa with my mother but my spontaneous vacation idea does not have to be determined by that kind of distance and magnitude. I'd honestly be really happy with an unplanned road trip to a small town that's an hour away.
   I like having my life organized and having my week planned out, but if one Saturday or Sunday morning, someone asked me to join them to their camp, or to go shopping in North Bay, or even to go spend the day on Manitoulin Island, I'd drop whatever I would have planned and take that trip.
   It's good to have things worked out in life because it makes accomplishing your goals that much easier, but like Germaine Greer said "The essence of pleasure is spontaneity". So work for your goals dearest readers, but never refuse a spontaneous vacation.

K.P.H.

Literature: The Song from Within the Story

   Happy Saturday morning dearest readers! I hope you all didn't tire yourselves out too much yesterday; I myself made homemade pizzas with my roommates and started to fall asleep on the couch at 9:30, so I was happy to be able to go to bed early for once (this is evidence on how thrilling my social life is, and I'm completely okay with that). This morning I am choosing to post another video, but this time of myself rather than one of a comedian. This one will be another song, but let me explain the context of this one a little more.
   I had mention previously that I am an aspiring author and I'm trying to take all of the steps necessary, if not more, to try to reach my goal. Up to now, I've written a total of 5 novels and one novella (not counting short stories, children's books and poems), and I find myself constantly editing and re-working them until I feel like part of myself belongs to the book. What gives me the inspiration to write so many stories at such a young age is:
 1. I think of myself as being quite creative,
 2. I use every single opportunity as the props for a new story,
 3. I daydream a lot and
 4. I'm an avid reader myself.
   I also have this little trick that when I'm reading (or writing), there must ALWAYS be music playing; it becomes like a soundtrack to the story for me. With this as well, before I even attempt to write out any of my stories, I see them all as types of movies that play on repeat in my head; and doesn't every good movie have a soundtrack dedicated to it, or at least one song. So that's essentially what I like to do for my own stuff. I create a kind of personal fandom that links to my stories. I have the songs, some drawings, posters and once in a while, I will create pieces of jewelry unique to a specific tale (making jewelry is another hobby of mine).
   So with all of this stated out in the open, I will insert the video of one of the song for one of my stories. It is linked to my newest one, which is still in the process of being edited, and it is called The Hidden Village. I'd like to apologize to my friend Gen (who does all of the cover drawings and the inserted pictures for my stories) because she has been with me every step of the way for this story, but she refuses to let me tell her anything about it until it has been written and edited at least once; so Gen, DON'T LOOK AT THE VIDEO!!! Readers you can feel free to look, and even if it does tell you some things, trust me it is a very vague description of the story so it won't give too much away. I hope you enjoy none the less.

K.P.H.