A few days ago I had my first media interview. While part of it was fun, another part of it was very scary. It let me know quite clearly... I won't be sitting on Oprah's couch anytime soon. I've got too much stuff bulging inside and it's banging against the walls to get out. Once I let out a little trickle, the rest will push hard against the small opening and a dam will bust if I don't get the flow under control.
October was a great month for me... and I'm looking forward to a very blessed November.
For those of you who love wild and exciting rides... hop on. There's plenty of room.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 16, 2009
It's official! I am now a published author. Today is the first day I step onto the road in the next leg of this journey. What lay ahead of me, I don't really know, but I'm excited to find out. Before I look ahead and start marching forward, I must take a quick glimpse back at the many different paths I've left behind.
I see the the faint outline of a small trail winding its way through the tall leafy jungle, moving beside the winding river, leading deeper into the dense forest. I then notice the dusty dirt road with its many mud holes and cozy tunnels of overcast trees, giving way to the one lane gravel drive. Soon loose stones turn into a smooth unlined two lane with its low shoulders and caution signs.
Next, white and yellow lines appear along with small reflectors as the rules increase along with the dangers of accumulating traffic. Speeds are limited, miles are marked and direction choices become more often, each leading down different journeys.
I'm now entering the on ramp of the busy interstate, ready to mingle into the already moving heavy traffic toward the city. My seat belt is securely fastened and my vehicle has been inspected (lights, blinker, oil, tires, horn and engine) and I'm ready to merge. I know I have to accelerate to be up to speed by the time I reach the flow.
I hope you're in the car with me, because once I get on, I can easily get lost in the frenzy.
Thank you, everyone, who has supported this dream. I wasn't alone in making it come true and I won't be alone when it soars through the universe or when the next dream decides to take flight.
As my title says up at the top... Buckle up... it's going to be an exciting ride!!!
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
I see the the faint outline of a small trail winding its way through the tall leafy jungle, moving beside the winding river, leading deeper into the dense forest. I then notice the dusty dirt road with its many mud holes and cozy tunnels of overcast trees, giving way to the one lane gravel drive. Soon loose stones turn into a smooth unlined two lane with its low shoulders and caution signs.
Next, white and yellow lines appear along with small reflectors as the rules increase along with the dangers of accumulating traffic. Speeds are limited, miles are marked and direction choices become more often, each leading down different journeys.
I'm now entering the on ramp of the busy interstate, ready to mingle into the already moving heavy traffic toward the city. My seat belt is securely fastened and my vehicle has been inspected (lights, blinker, oil, tires, horn and engine) and I'm ready to merge. I know I have to accelerate to be up to speed by the time I reach the flow.
I hope you're in the car with me, because once I get on, I can easily get lost in the frenzy.
Thank you, everyone, who has supported this dream. I wasn't alone in making it come true and I won't be alone when it soars through the universe or when the next dream decides to take flight.
As my title says up at the top... Buckle up... it's going to be an exciting ride!!!
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
About to be Published.
It hasn't really sunk into my brain yet and still feels like any other business transaction I make on a daily basis, but it's not the same. My heart and head are not on the same page... yet.
I'm about to be published. Sure, it's not like I had pictured it in the beginning, but it is a part of the dream that I've had for a long time. But, it was always something that was just beyond grasp, just at the end of the fingertips, but not something that I could wrap my fingers around. Most of it having been my fault, because offers have come but I didn't take them.
Why now? What's different this time? I don't know. I just know that it is. I will soon be able to hold in my hands a printed, published copy of a story from my dreams. My name will be splashed across the front and my picture placed on the back. Within the covers, small printed letters will dance upon the pages as they tell a story that swirled within the ocean of my imagination. Life breathing into the characters as their personalities become known to those who dare to read.
Part of me wants to hold them close to my bosom and protect them from others, but then another part wants to share them with the world. Will they love them as I have? Will they see them as I do? I guess I'm about to find out.
Thank you, everyone, who has supported this dream. I wasn't alone in making it come true and I won't be alone when it soars through the universe or when the next dream decides to take flight.
As my title says up at the top... hang on... it's going to be a bumpy ride. Boy, what a great ride, though!
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
I'm about to be published. Sure, it's not like I had pictured it in the beginning, but it is a part of the dream that I've had for a long time. But, it was always something that was just beyond grasp, just at the end of the fingertips, but not something that I could wrap my fingers around. Most of it having been my fault, because offers have come but I didn't take them.
Why now? What's different this time? I don't know. I just know that it is. I will soon be able to hold in my hands a printed, published copy of a story from my dreams. My name will be splashed across the front and my picture placed on the back. Within the covers, small printed letters will dance upon the pages as they tell a story that swirled within the ocean of my imagination. Life breathing into the characters as their personalities become known to those who dare to read.
Part of me wants to hold them close to my bosom and protect them from others, but then another part wants to share them with the world. Will they love them as I have? Will they see them as I do? I guess I'm about to find out.
Thank you, everyone, who has supported this dream. I wasn't alone in making it come true and I won't be alone when it soars through the universe or when the next dream decides to take flight.
As my title says up at the top... hang on... it's going to be a bumpy ride. Boy, what a great ride, though!
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Friday, July 10, 2009
Becoming an Author
When I introduce myself as an author, I meet lots of people who say, "Oh, I've tried to write a book once, but never finished it." That one fact is the biggest obstacle that makes someone an author. But, it's only the beginning.
You are a writer if you write, then edit, then re-write, then contemplate, then edit some more and then re-write again. You are an author when you submit, query, wait, wait, submit again, query again, wait and wait some more and then the writing gets published.
Until that time... you're just someone who had an idea and didn't follow through with it because either you didn't have the drive, determination or discipline required; and believe me - it takes all three.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
You are a writer if you write, then edit, then re-write, then contemplate, then edit some more and then re-write again. You are an author when you submit, query, wait, wait, submit again, query again, wait and wait some more and then the writing gets published.
Until that time... you're just someone who had an idea and didn't follow through with it because either you didn't have the drive, determination or discipline required; and believe me - it takes all three.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Who Really Does the Writing?
I've had many people ask me, "How do you come up with all those stories?" Most of the time my response is usually something profound as "life is a story, I just choose to write one down." But even I wonder where the thoughts of my imagination begin.
I have no doubt that God is the true author of all life and this ability to see bits of it all around me is a gift given. I find it quite amazing when I discover that not everybody can see the same way. A painter can see the true beauty of color and depth perception more vibrantly; a musician and singer hear the sounds of the world and the soul much clearer; writers and poets see the power of life and death that are encased with the spoken and written language. Yet, we all only see the true picture around us in part and we are vain enough to think we understand everything because of what little we've seen, heard, smelled, felt and tasted.
I can only write what I know and can imagine. My imagination is limited yet without bounds, and my knowledge is constantly growing but has limitations. Yet who truly has the power of creation. The definition alone disqualifies me, because I do not have the power to make something from nothing. I am a master of manipulation, because I have an uncanny gift to take elements of what already is and manipulate them into something else. I can take bits and pieces of the story (world) I know, have known and have experienced and mold those experiences into a new story, just as a painter takes the colors that already exist and make them into a picture of manipulated bits and pieces of a world they've come to know. But I do not "create" anything from nothing. I make something new from what already exists.
So who really does do the writing? I do. Writing is a gift. While many people may know much of the same as I do, not everybody can write it down in the same way. I am a scribe, and my gift comes with much discipline and skill. It's not always easy and requires much dedication, but how it makes my soul churn within me and stirs the passion inside, I cannot fathom doing anything else.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
I have no doubt that God is the true author of all life and this ability to see bits of it all around me is a gift given. I find it quite amazing when I discover that not everybody can see the same way. A painter can see the true beauty of color and depth perception more vibrantly; a musician and singer hear the sounds of the world and the soul much clearer; writers and poets see the power of life and death that are encased with the spoken and written language. Yet, we all only see the true picture around us in part and we are vain enough to think we understand everything because of what little we've seen, heard, smelled, felt and tasted.
I can only write what I know and can imagine. My imagination is limited yet without bounds, and my knowledge is constantly growing but has limitations. Yet who truly has the power of creation. The definition alone disqualifies me, because I do not have the power to make something from nothing. I am a master of manipulation, because I have an uncanny gift to take elements of what already is and manipulate them into something else. I can take bits and pieces of the story (world) I know, have known and have experienced and mold those experiences into a new story, just as a painter takes the colors that already exist and make them into a picture of manipulated bits and pieces of a world they've come to know. But I do not "create" anything from nothing. I make something new from what already exists.
So who really does do the writing? I do. Writing is a gift. While many people may know much of the same as I do, not everybody can write it down in the same way. I am a scribe, and my gift comes with much discipline and skill. It's not always easy and requires much dedication, but how it makes my soul churn within me and stirs the passion inside, I cannot fathom doing anything else.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Monday, June 29, 2009
Monday, June 22, 2009
The Land of Anxiousville and Anxiety
Don't you just hate that place between deciding what you want and obtaining it? You know... the land of Anxiousville and Anxiety? It's horrible and I don't particularly like it. Who does? Despite how I feel about it, I find myself there quite often.
We're not supposed to be anxious for anything, but how does someone achieve that? No matter what my intentions are... I find myself dog peddling in a deep pool of it.
Where does it come from? Is it from a lack of trust or faith? I don't think so, because I truly believe I have ample supply of both, yet still walk in this state. Perhaps having trust and faith isn't enough? Being able to use them properly may be the key?
I have a lot of things I want while I journey through this small span of time I have on this earth. I've already obtained of lot of those things already. It isn't the obtaining that makes up this life - it's the journey it takes getting there. So, today I'm going to try and not allow anxiety and the overwhelming feeling of being anxious mar today's journey - because that's my life we're talking about.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
We're not supposed to be anxious for anything, but how does someone achieve that? No matter what my intentions are... I find myself dog peddling in a deep pool of it.
Where does it come from? Is it from a lack of trust or faith? I don't think so, because I truly believe I have ample supply of both, yet still walk in this state. Perhaps having trust and faith isn't enough? Being able to use them properly may be the key?
I have a lot of things I want while I journey through this small span of time I have on this earth. I've already obtained of lot of those things already. It isn't the obtaining that makes up this life - it's the journey it takes getting there. So, today I'm going to try and not allow anxiety and the overwhelming feeling of being anxious mar today's journey - because that's my life we're talking about.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Friday, June 12, 2009
The Blood of Cain - Update
Well, I finally signed a publishing contract for the Blood of Cain.
It is scheduled for release in October 2009! (So, make sure you buy a copy - need the royalties!)
I'm getting excited. I've still got a lot of work to do between now and then, but look forward to the challenges that lay ahead.
First thing... I want to give a shout out to all those who've helped support and inspire me and my writing. May each of you receive a double portion of blessing for your support and inspiration.
First, my Father, my Friend and my Savior, Jesus. Without You, all would be meaningless. I'm only the scribe to the gift You've given me. I love You with my whole being.
Though he hasn't actually even read any of my novels, I thank my husband, Rick. Without his support and encouragement, I may have given up on my dreams a long time ago.
Next, my children, Meagan, Johnathan and Kelly, and my in-laws, Virginia and Paul. You fill my heart with all the emotions (love, anger, fear, pride, trust, hope, frustration, etc.) I need to identify in my writing. To my Pastors Dan & Carla Patrick, who are the parents I never had but always dreamed about. Dreams do really come true, maybe not always in the package we imagined, but in hindsight... still the same dream. This is the family I dreamed about as a little child.
Now, to the rest of you. My editor, Steven Henderson, who I may or may not like in the coming months.... depending on how much mutilation is involved. I appreciate honesty, but it doesn't mean I have to like it. My publisher, Lois Bennett and the family at Fireside Publishing for believing in me and my work enough to want to publish me. My friends and family at DLCC, you know who you are (or maybe you don't...LOL!). To all my friends and foes at Critique Circle, who've helped shape my writing with all your opinions, hats off to you. And, to those who helped inspire the characters that sprang to life on the pages of this manuscript - Jensen Ackles, Steven Strait, Paul Bettany and Allison Mack.
Thank you all... and as the opening to this blog says... 'hang on... it's going to be a bumpy ride!'
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
It is scheduled for release in October 2009! (So, make sure you buy a copy - need the royalties!)
I'm getting excited. I've still got a lot of work to do between now and then, but look forward to the challenges that lay ahead.
First thing... I want to give a shout out to all those who've helped support and inspire me and my writing. May each of you receive a double portion of blessing for your support and inspiration.
First, my Father, my Friend and my Savior, Jesus. Without You, all would be meaningless. I'm only the scribe to the gift You've given me. I love You with my whole being.
Though he hasn't actually even read any of my novels, I thank my husband, Rick. Without his support and encouragement, I may have given up on my dreams a long time ago.
Next, my children, Meagan, Johnathan and Kelly, and my in-laws, Virginia and Paul. You fill my heart with all the emotions (love, anger, fear, pride, trust, hope, frustration, etc.) I need to identify in my writing. To my Pastors Dan & Carla Patrick, who are the parents I never had but always dreamed about. Dreams do really come true, maybe not always in the package we imagined, but in hindsight... still the same dream. This is the family I dreamed about as a little child.
Now, to the rest of you. My editor, Steven Henderson, who I may or may not like in the coming months.... depending on how much mutilation is involved. I appreciate honesty, but it doesn't mean I have to like it. My publisher, Lois Bennett and the family at Fireside Publishing for believing in me and my work enough to want to publish me. My friends and family at DLCC, you know who you are (or maybe you don't...LOL!). To all my friends and foes at Critique Circle, who've helped shape my writing with all your opinions, hats off to you. And, to those who helped inspire the characters that sprang to life on the pages of this manuscript - Jensen Ackles, Steven Strait, Paul Bettany and Allison Mack.
Thank you all... and as the opening to this blog says... 'hang on... it's going to be a bumpy ride!'
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Saturday, May 02, 2009
Poetry This Morning
I haven't written poetry in a long time. When I was a teenager, that's all I did, I wrote poems and songs. I didn't write stories, didn't know I could. But, I had a lot of pent up emotions and poetry was release.
While I'm not sure I have any pent up emotion right now, but I feel 'inspired' to write what comes out. So, here goes.
Gray clouds swirl, not dark, not light;
no fear, no joy, just numb.
Moving forward, not left, not right;
no past, no future, just now.
Breaking through, not blind, not sight;
no friend, no foe, just help.
Sunlight beams, not day, not night;
no win, no lose, just Him.
Well, there you have it... my attempt at poetry after all this time.
I think I'll stick with my writing for now.
Have a blessed day.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
While I'm not sure I have any pent up emotion right now, but I feel 'inspired' to write what comes out. So, here goes.
Gray clouds swirl, not dark, not light;
no fear, no joy, just numb.
Moving forward, not left, not right;
no past, no future, just now.
Breaking through, not blind, not sight;
no friend, no foe, just help.
Sunlight beams, not day, not night;
no win, no lose, just Him.
Well, there you have it... my attempt at poetry after all this time.
I think I'll stick with my writing for now.
Have a blessed day.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Harry Potter - The Order of the Phoenix
Today's the day that I go see the latest addition in the WB movies of Harry Potter. I'm not sure if it's because I've been walking around with a head cold, but I'm surprised at my lack of enthusiasm for a movie I've waited a long time to see. Perhaps only getting a few hours of sleep might be interferring with my normally sensitive excitement.
I've been playing the new video game for TOOTP, and I have to say that its much better than the other four versions. The graphics are better and I really love that they modeled the game after the movies and used the real characters for the voice overs. Right now, Hermoine is getting on my nerves because she won't quit harassing Harry about finding a talking Gargoyle so we can start on the training of Dumbledore's Army in the Room of Requirement. I've been all over the place and still can't find that fifth gargoyle. It's probably right in front of my eyes, but I can't see it, and Dean Thomas is determined not to come to the DA meeting without finishing his homework for Professor Binns.
Well, back to the hunt for talking gargoyles, and then it's time to go see the movie. I'm sure I'll love it.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
I've been playing the new video game for TOOTP, and I have to say that its much better than the other four versions. The graphics are better and I really love that they modeled the game after the movies and used the real characters for the voice overs. Right now, Hermoine is getting on my nerves because she won't quit harassing Harry about finding a talking Gargoyle so we can start on the training of Dumbledore's Army in the Room of Requirement. I've been all over the place and still can't find that fifth gargoyle. It's probably right in front of my eyes, but I can't see it, and Dean Thomas is determined not to come to the DA meeting without finishing his homework for Professor Binns.
Well, back to the hunt for talking gargoyles, and then it's time to go see the movie. I'm sure I'll love it.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Back to Orientation
Well, I'm finally back to working on the edits for the first book of my Necromancer Series.
I'm really excited and am anxious to jump in and start editing.
I'll keep you posted on my progress.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
I'm really excited and am anxious to jump in and start editing.
I'll keep you posted on my progress.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Friday, May 11, 2007
Crazy4Smallville's Weekly Review 6:
I know I haven't written a review in a while. I actually told myself that I wasn't going to write anymore, but I guess I can't just stop what I've been doing for six years now.
I really, really, really LOVED the timeless episode. Seeing Chloe, Clark, Lois, Jimmy, Lex, Lana & Lionel all doing their roles in the black and white - was very, very, very well done. Clark being the bumbling, glasses wearing geek reporter by day and hero crime fighter by night was priceless. Chloe's accent, attitude and demeanor - excellent. Lois' dream girl role (well, didn't really need that one, but they had to put her somewhere. Chloe really had her role.) Lex's mob-like character was par to none, Lana's damsel-in-distress/black widow character - fit like a glove and Lionel's barkeep, informative, etc - as mysterious as his own role. Jimmy - Jimmy was the best.
I loved the square-shouldered outfits, the way the picture was shot, the sound effects, the writing, the script, the lighting, everything. It's by far the BEST episode I've seen on the show. I'm really, really impressed.
As for the rest of them - I'm still waiting on Chloe to reveal some sort of super power and for Clark to move on from Lana. But, every time he starts to move on - he gets pulled back in. Unless Lana dies - SHE (not Lois) will always be THE love of Clark's life - which is JUST WRONG. It's one of the things I HATE about this show. However, that's not to say I don't like Lana, because I actually do. I really love to see how vindictive, manipulative and evil she's become. She's truly been transformed into a Luthor. She just like Lex. Doing under-handed things - all the while - thinking she's doing them for a good reason. Lex thinks he's building an army to protect the earth from aliens, yet he doesn't think about "HOW" he's going about it or all the lies, manipulations, and evil he does to fulfill that NOBEL quest. Neither does Lana.
Chloe is wonderful as ever. She's tough and I loved seeing her get that moment with her mother. But, whatever happened to her father, Gabe? Does she not have a relationship with him? I like how she misses Jimmy. I'd like to see more on Moira. Could Chloe be Wonder Woman? Instead of her and her mother being meteor freaks, perhaps they're aliens from an all-woman ruled planet, and Chloe is truly a warrior princess named Diana?? That's a BIG stretch, but having Linda Carter (Wonder Woman) play her mother, and Chloe being a part of the Justice League (like Wonder Woman) no WONDER this WOMAN's mind wanders in such a direction.
What's wrong with Clark? He's not the brightest tool in the shed. He's got all these superpowers - that's he's had for years now - x-ray vision (5-6 years), heat vision (4-5 years) super hearing (5-6 years), speed (15-16 years), strength (his whole life) etc. Yet, he doesn't use them as if they're second nature when he gets into a conflict. He should be trained like a soldier, and his reflexes to use his powers should be second nature. Perhaps its a budget issue.
I do like seeing how he's saving the day, but then keeping himself hidden in the background and no one knows he's saving the day. It was really touching seeing him watching Lois as she grieved over her first love. Is this a foreshadow of him grieving over his??? Please say it's so!
On the whole, I'm still very pleased with the show. However, a new show has really got my blood pumping on Thursday nights, and that's Supernatural. I LOVE Dean Winchester. I hated Jensen Eckles on Smallville. Jason was a mama's boy - Lana whipped - puppy dog - but on Smallville, he's everything this girl would like to have in a man. I just LOVE that character and his rigid sense of humor.
Anyway - that was a quick review on Smallville of late. I look forward to the finale next week.
Till next time,
~Crazy4Smallville
I really, really, really LOVED the timeless episode. Seeing Chloe, Clark, Lois, Jimmy, Lex, Lana & Lionel all doing their roles in the black and white - was very, very, very well done. Clark being the bumbling, glasses wearing geek reporter by day and hero crime fighter by night was priceless. Chloe's accent, attitude and demeanor - excellent. Lois' dream girl role (well, didn't really need that one, but they had to put her somewhere. Chloe really had her role.) Lex's mob-like character was par to none, Lana's damsel-in-distress/black widow character - fit like a glove and Lionel's barkeep, informative, etc - as mysterious as his own role. Jimmy - Jimmy was the best.
I loved the square-shouldered outfits, the way the picture was shot, the sound effects, the writing, the script, the lighting, everything. It's by far the BEST episode I've seen on the show. I'm really, really impressed.
As for the rest of them - I'm still waiting on Chloe to reveal some sort of super power and for Clark to move on from Lana. But, every time he starts to move on - he gets pulled back in. Unless Lana dies - SHE (not Lois) will always be THE love of Clark's life - which is JUST WRONG. It's one of the things I HATE about this show. However, that's not to say I don't like Lana, because I actually do. I really love to see how vindictive, manipulative and evil she's become. She's truly been transformed into a Luthor. She just like Lex. Doing under-handed things - all the while - thinking she's doing them for a good reason. Lex thinks he's building an army to protect the earth from aliens, yet he doesn't think about "HOW" he's going about it or all the lies, manipulations, and evil he does to fulfill that NOBEL quest. Neither does Lana.
Chloe is wonderful as ever. She's tough and I loved seeing her get that moment with her mother. But, whatever happened to her father, Gabe? Does she not have a relationship with him? I like how she misses Jimmy. I'd like to see more on Moira. Could Chloe be Wonder Woman? Instead of her and her mother being meteor freaks, perhaps they're aliens from an all-woman ruled planet, and Chloe is truly a warrior princess named Diana?? That's a BIG stretch, but having Linda Carter (Wonder Woman) play her mother, and Chloe being a part of the Justice League (like Wonder Woman) no WONDER this WOMAN's mind wanders in such a direction.
What's wrong with Clark? He's not the brightest tool in the shed. He's got all these superpowers - that's he's had for years now - x-ray vision (5-6 years), heat vision (4-5 years) super hearing (5-6 years), speed (15-16 years), strength (his whole life) etc. Yet, he doesn't use them as if they're second nature when he gets into a conflict. He should be trained like a soldier, and his reflexes to use his powers should be second nature. Perhaps its a budget issue.
I do like seeing how he's saving the day, but then keeping himself hidden in the background and no one knows he's saving the day. It was really touching seeing him watching Lois as she grieved over her first love. Is this a foreshadow of him grieving over his??? Please say it's so!
On the whole, I'm still very pleased with the show. However, a new show has really got my blood pumping on Thursday nights, and that's Supernatural. I LOVE Dean Winchester. I hated Jensen Eckles on Smallville. Jason was a mama's boy - Lana whipped - puppy dog - but on Smallville, he's everything this girl would like to have in a man. I just LOVE that character and his rigid sense of humor.
Anyway - that was a quick review on Smallville of late. I look forward to the finale next week.
Till next time,
~Crazy4Smallville
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Prison Break
I watched the Season Finale of Prison Break last night - and as usual they left off on a cliff hanger. I didn't expect anything different - they've left each episode on a cliff hanger, surely they'd do the same for the season.
Anyhow, this season ender has brought up a lot more questions, much like the last two. But, I'm intrigued about this one. It seems to change the whole dynamic of the show.
1. Who is Michael Scofield really? It seems he may not even be 'normal'. Well, we already knew he wasn't 'normal', because normal people don't plan the escape of their convicted brother from prison, nor do they try to take down the President. I've always suspected there was more to Michael than what meets the eye. He's super-genius - now I don't think that's an accident. Is he a government and science experiment? Did his dad know this?
2. Sarah Tencredy - Well, the doc's now taken a man's life and Scofield is in prison. Is she going to crack now? She's already been through a lot - and come out of it. The Secret Service agent who was sent to kill her, ended up rescuing her and planting the seeds of investigation into "The Company" and her boyfriend's broken out of prison before - why not hope he'll do it again. However, I don't think she'll trust Lincoln will be the one to help him out - he's just not as smart (but he's very sexy). Will she discover the secret to Michael's 'condition' and help find a cure? We'll just have to wait and see how she plays in all this.
3. Lincoln Burrows - What now for poor Linc? He's now changed spots with his brother, but that doesn't leave his brother in a good spot. He's the muscle of the group, not necessarily the brains. What about his son, L.J.? Will he come back into the picture? Does this 'gene pool' problem run in the family? Inquiring minds want to know.
4. Fernando Sucre - Will he live or die? Will he ever see his precious Marie-Cruz? Will he see his child be born? What part does he play in the next saga - or is his role done?
5. "Pedophile Phil" (That's my name for Teddy Bagwell) - seems like he's going back to Fox River or is he? Wasn't it people from "The Company" he made a deal with? How much does he really know - or does he know anything. I've always known that Scofield felt guilty most about this convicts escape and the damage he's caused since he's been out. I'm still very curious as to how this all turns out. No one has the money - and really - only Michael, Sarah and Lincoln knows that it's sitting at the bottom of the lake.
6. FBI Agent, Mahoney - I have to say he's one of my favorite characters. He brought a whole new level of intensity to the show, but he's seems to have lost a bit of his edge. What was so great about him in the beginning was that he seemed to be 'like Mike' - having this super-genius edge. It was meant to be a battle of the minds, but somehow Mahoney broke down. Now that he's in SORDA with Michael, will they overcome their differences and put their minds together to get out? Is Mahoney a product of "The Company" like Michael? Will he ever get back with his wife and son?
7. Franklin "C-Note" - What happened to him? Where is he? I know I missed an episode a couple of weeks ago - but is he a alive? Is he still part of the program? Did he save his wife and daughter? I don't think his story is finished. He was framed while in the army - will he ever get exonerated and bring to light what was 'really' behind the set up? How does it play into "The Company's" plan?
8. "Boss" the ex-Prison Guard - Seems the redneck jerk is getting what he deserves after all those years of setting up and manipulating prison inmates, he's the one set up - but set up for what? Will he ever tell Sucre what he did with Marie-Cruz? Did he do anything? Perhaps he just had Sucre 'think' he did something. Who's got him? The Company?
I suppose we'll have to 'stay tuned' until the fall season.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Anyhow, this season ender has brought up a lot more questions, much like the last two. But, I'm intrigued about this one. It seems to change the whole dynamic of the show.
1. Who is Michael Scofield really? It seems he may not even be 'normal'. Well, we already knew he wasn't 'normal', because normal people don't plan the escape of their convicted brother from prison, nor do they try to take down the President. I've always suspected there was more to Michael than what meets the eye. He's super-genius - now I don't think that's an accident. Is he a government and science experiment? Did his dad know this?
2. Sarah Tencredy - Well, the doc's now taken a man's life and Scofield is in prison. Is she going to crack now? She's already been through a lot - and come out of it. The Secret Service agent who was sent to kill her, ended up rescuing her and planting the seeds of investigation into "The Company" and her boyfriend's broken out of prison before - why not hope he'll do it again. However, I don't think she'll trust Lincoln will be the one to help him out - he's just not as smart (but he's very sexy). Will she discover the secret to Michael's 'condition' and help find a cure? We'll just have to wait and see how she plays in all this.
3. Lincoln Burrows - What now for poor Linc? He's now changed spots with his brother, but that doesn't leave his brother in a good spot. He's the muscle of the group, not necessarily the brains. What about his son, L.J.? Will he come back into the picture? Does this 'gene pool' problem run in the family? Inquiring minds want to know.
4. Fernando Sucre - Will he live or die? Will he ever see his precious Marie-Cruz? Will he see his child be born? What part does he play in the next saga - or is his role done?
5. "Pedophile Phil" (That's my name for Teddy Bagwell) - seems like he's going back to Fox River or is he? Wasn't it people from "The Company" he made a deal with? How much does he really know - or does he know anything. I've always known that Scofield felt guilty most about this convicts escape and the damage he's caused since he's been out. I'm still very curious as to how this all turns out. No one has the money - and really - only Michael, Sarah and Lincoln knows that it's sitting at the bottom of the lake.
6. FBI Agent, Mahoney - I have to say he's one of my favorite characters. He brought a whole new level of intensity to the show, but he's seems to have lost a bit of his edge. What was so great about him in the beginning was that he seemed to be 'like Mike' - having this super-genius edge. It was meant to be a battle of the minds, but somehow Mahoney broke down. Now that he's in SORDA with Michael, will they overcome their differences and put their minds together to get out? Is Mahoney a product of "The Company" like Michael? Will he ever get back with his wife and son?
7. Franklin "C-Note" - What happened to him? Where is he? I know I missed an episode a couple of weeks ago - but is he a alive? Is he still part of the program? Did he save his wife and daughter? I don't think his story is finished. He was framed while in the army - will he ever get exonerated and bring to light what was 'really' behind the set up? How does it play into "The Company's" plan?
8. "Boss" the ex-Prison Guard - Seems the redneck jerk is getting what he deserves after all those years of setting up and manipulating prison inmates, he's the one set up - but set up for what? Will he ever tell Sucre what he did with Marie-Cruz? Did he do anything? Perhaps he just had Sucre 'think' he did something. Who's got him? The Company?
I suppose we'll have to 'stay tuned' until the fall season.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Monday, April 02, 2007
Temptation to Know the End - Harry Potter Series
I'm really anticipating the new release of the seventh book in the Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling. However, I'm also having a lot of reservations. I know that I'm going to be sad. I'll probably cry - that's just the "Sap" I am. But, that's not my biggest concern right now.
I'm wondering how I'm going to be able to read the whole story - all the while - fighting the temptation to turn to the last page to see if Harry lives or dies. That will probably be the hardest thing I'll have to do as I read through Deathly Hollows.
I just completed The Goblet of Fire, which took me a few weeks to read and will start The Order of the Phoenix tonight. Having read the complete series through twice already, I find no temptation to skip to the end. But - I'm biting my nails in anticipation for The Deathly Hallows, I'm not sure if I'll be strong enough to make it through the whole story without a peek. I don't even want to hear the 'buzz' or read any reviews until AFTER I've read it for myself. It's going to be hard.
I admire J.K. Rowling at this moment. What a wonderful feeling it is for me as a reader to have such anticipation for a story. As a writer - I know that has to make Rowling smile. This feeling determines if a writer is successful or not. That's what it's all about.
Let's hope I defeat the temptation to know the end.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
I'm wondering how I'm going to be able to read the whole story - all the while - fighting the temptation to turn to the last page to see if Harry lives or dies. That will probably be the hardest thing I'll have to do as I read through Deathly Hollows.
I just completed The Goblet of Fire, which took me a few weeks to read and will start The Order of the Phoenix tonight. Having read the complete series through twice already, I find no temptation to skip to the end. But - I'm biting my nails in anticipation for The Deathly Hallows, I'm not sure if I'll be strong enough to make it through the whole story without a peek. I don't even want to hear the 'buzz' or read any reviews until AFTER I've read it for myself. It's going to be hard.
I admire J.K. Rowling at this moment. What a wonderful feeling it is for me as a reader to have such anticipation for a story. As a writer - I know that has to make Rowling smile. This feeling determines if a writer is successful or not. That's what it's all about.
Let's hope I defeat the temptation to know the end.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Friday, March 30, 2007
Forever Edits....Ah, the Life of a Writer
I've come to the conclusion that edits are a part of a writer's life. Probably the biggest part.
The idea of the story seems to be the easiest, the writing follows naturally, but the editing - that's where the dues are paid. The writing, re-writing, reading, re-reading, crossing out, cutting, pasting, adding, re-wording and the opening and closing of the trusty ole' Thesaurus is the everyday norm.
Today is no exception. I'm in the middle of editing chapter 11 of Orientation - and I love every grueling minute of it.
Gotta run - found an 'ly' adverb hidden within a passive sentence.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
The idea of the story seems to be the easiest, the writing follows naturally, but the editing - that's where the dues are paid. The writing, re-writing, reading, re-reading, crossing out, cutting, pasting, adding, re-wording and the opening and closing of the trusty ole' Thesaurus is the everyday norm.
Today is no exception. I'm in the middle of editing chapter 11 of Orientation - and I love every grueling minute of it.
Gotta run - found an 'ly' adverb hidden within a passive sentence.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Orientation - Update
I'm just now completing my edit of Chapter 10. I have to tell you, this story is morphing into something wonderful. I'm really, really pleased with the way it's turning out. I'm almost embarrassed at the version that I've sent out before, because this is so much better. My only fear is, what will I think of this version a few years from now?
What I'm changing, for those who don't know what I'm doing, is the 'way' the story is written, not the story itself. That is still intact. I'm changing it from a passive/narrative story to an active/showing adventure. I want to be able to 'zoom' onto the scene and have the reader following me along on a wild, adventurous ride, much like a roller coaster. Other than the beginning climb, there are no slow spots on a roller coaster. It's one exciting dip and curve until the end. That's the way I want my story. I want the reader to jump on and cling tight - it's fast, fun and full of exciting thrills.
With my Necromancer Series being 8-9 books, it's like getting to ride 8-9 different rides - all just as exciting as the first.
Well, my coffee is about finished percolating. It's time to get to work.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
What I'm changing, for those who don't know what I'm doing, is the 'way' the story is written, not the story itself. That is still intact. I'm changing it from a passive/narrative story to an active/showing adventure. I want to be able to 'zoom' onto the scene and have the reader following me along on a wild, adventurous ride, much like a roller coaster. Other than the beginning climb, there are no slow spots on a roller coaster. It's one exciting dip and curve until the end. That's the way I want my story. I want the reader to jump on and cling tight - it's fast, fun and full of exciting thrills.
With my Necromancer Series being 8-9 books, it's like getting to ride 8-9 different rides - all just as exciting as the first.
Well, my coffee is about finished percolating. It's time to get to work.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Friday, March 16, 2007
Professor Severus Snape - Hero or Villian?
Professor Severus Snape – Hero or Villain?
As I’ve posted before on this blog, I’m re-reading the Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling and I’m really enjoying it. I’m taking my time and paying attention to all the little details, which brings me to the topic at hand, Professor Snape. Is he a hero or villain?
Regardless of which he turns out to be in the seventh book, Deathly Hollows - slated to be released July 21st, he’s clearly my favorite character. He’s the most complex and mysterious of them all.
Now, like millions of other fans across the globe, I too have a theory about our dear Potions, or should I say Defense Against the Dark Arts, Master.
To understand where Professor Severus Snape is now, we must go back to the beginning of his life and see how he got to the place he currently occupies.
Severus Snape was born to misfortune (wizard father and muggle mother) and as a child cried a lot, displaying behavior of someone whose been abused. I think this degrading emotional abuse caused a young Severus to have low-self esteem and issues with trusting others. I believe he then poured himself into his studies, because he couldn’t trust people to not hurt him.
Of course, when he finally came to Hogwarts at eleven, his worst fears were confirmed when he was treated as an outcast and teased by the most popular kids in school (Marauders/Gryffindors – Potter, Black and Lupin). He lashed out at them, not in malice, but as a way to protect himself. Most victims of abuse hurt others to keep from getting hurt themselves. So, animosity grew between Snape, Potter, Black and Lupin – but not true hatred. If anything, I think Snape longed to be like James, but despised him because he couldn’t.
However, being a member of Slytherin house, Snape found acceptance from people like Malfoy, Lestrange and the others who eventually became death eaters. In other words – he didn’t really fit in anywhere and by default hung out with the wrong crowd.
Snape was always in the background, learning, studying, being alone – never stepping out front and showing what he was truly capable of. He’s smart like Hermione, but lacked her confidence and didn’t have the fortune of befriending a Ron and Harry. I think, often times when Professor Snape snapped at Hermione for being ‘an insufferable know-it-all’, it was mostly out of jealousy. You know how the old saying goes: You’re usually guilty of what you find irritating in someone else.
I feel that perhaps Snape went with the flow, keeping all his true emotions inside, thus teaching himself to be an excellent Occlumens, able to hide his thoughts and emotions, so people couldn’t use them against him, including the powerful Lord Voldemort.
I think Snape joined the Death Eaters not out of a desire for power, but to have a place to fit in. He didn’t have the love of a family, he didn’t have the support of friends and he didn’t have the love of his life (Lily Evans – Lily Potter – Harry’s mother). All he had was his potions, his school, and his knowledge – which was great, but not that anyone knew.
How do I know they were great? Look what Harry learned just from the notes left in the potions book by the Half-Blood Prince. At a young age, Snape had an understanding of his craft that exceeded even the teachers. He not only figured out short cuts and better ways to perform written formulas, but created new spells. He also built a wall around himself so strong and so tall, he couldn’t see over it. He didn’t know his own greatness. So, he made a mistake and joined forces with Voldemort - Not because he ‘had’ to, but because he wanted to fit in somewhere… anywhere.
Snape discovered it was more than what he bargained for. Voldemort was no different than is evil parents, or the bullies at school. Everyone tried to present them selves as the best, all the while Snape just sits back in the shadows and watches. He witnesses Voldemort growing in power and influence, and the Potters, Black, Lupin and Dumbledore fighting on the other side, all the while Pettigrew (Wormtail) slithers back and forth between the two camps. None of it concerned him. He was neither for, nor against any of it. He disliked both sides and trusted neither – until he heard part of the prophecy given by Sibyl Trelawney.
I think Snape realized how important of a role he played when he recited the prophecy to Voldemort, but then it was too late to take it back. I think perhaps Snape was able to Occlumens Voldemort and saw what he planned to do – and Snape felt responsible. I think it scared him, and for the first time he actually ‘chose’ the side he wanted to be on, and it wasn’t with Voldemort.
I believe he then went to the one person that he felt accepted him and saw him for what he truly was, and told him everything. Dumbledore helped Snape see himself for what he truly was and gave him the confidence to break away from Voldemort, which he discovered wasn’t as hard to do as he previously believed. Snape realized Voldemort was no more powerful than he was, yet Voldemort was none-the-wiser, nor anyone else for that matter, except Dumbledore – who then began to train Snape to become a spy for the Order. For the first time in his life, Snape had a purpose and someone who believed in him, and that’s really all he ever needed.
I don’t think Potter, Lupin or Black fully accepted Snape as a member of the Order, knowing he was once a Deatheater, but to keep up the rouse, Snape played the part of bitter rival – which somehow resulted in James saving his life. Now, he owed a life debt, but that’s not why Snape has been looking out for Harry all these years. I think he feels responsible for Lily and James death, because he could have stopped it, but out of his anger he chose not to, or he couldn’t without exposing his loyalties. So, guilt and owing a life debt has had him watching over Harry ever since, but he doesn’t always like it – because Harry is a lot like his father, James. He’s popular, likable and headstrong. He also reminds Snape of his mother, Lily, whom Snape loved and perhaps feels guilty over her death.
That brings me to the present and how Snape fits in with what happened in The Half Blood Prince and what I think will happen in Deathly Hallows.
The one thing I know about Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, it’s his insatiable love and loyalty to students at Hogwarts. It was this love that caused Tom Riddle to fear Dumbledore. Not because Voldemort fears Dumbledore is more powerful, but because Dumbledore is the only person in the world who ever cared about Tom Riddle. Love scares Voldemort, because it’s a power he doesn’t understand.
For Snape, that love saved him, combined with perhaps the love of and for Lily Potter as well. But, it’s also in his understanding that the same love Dumbledore had for him, he also has for ALL students of Hogwarts, including Harry and Draco, which caused Snape to have to kill him. First, bound by the unbreakable vow made with Narcissa – to do ‘whatever Voldemort had commanded Draco’, and knowing that in order to save Draco’s life (which would have been Dumbledore’s ultimate desire) Snape had to do it. He had every opportunity to kill Harry afterward, but he didn’t. If he was so evil to kill Dumbledore, killing Draco or Harry would have been nothing to him. I believe Dumbledore communicated with Snape via Occlumency and then begged him to do it, that it was the only way – and gave him instructions on what to do to finish destroying all the horcrux that remained.
Which brings me to what I think will happen.
Harry will destroy all but the last Horcrux, which he will discover is in the very scar on his head. He will face Voldemort, but be unable to kill him and get severely hurt – but Snape will save him and cast the final blow that kills Voldemort. Then Snape will reveal to Harry the whole truth of everything, through Occlumency and through his words. He and Harry will finally have it out and Harry will finally see Snape for who he truly is and then realize what Snape will have to do. Severus Snape will have to kill Harry Potter, because Harry is the last Horcrux. As long as he still lives, Voldemort will always be able to return. Harry willingly chooses to sacrifice himself (much like Dumbledore and his father). He will make Snape enter into an unbreakable vow to always protect his friends. Snape will then kill Harry Potter – and then tell the world that it was Harry who finally destroyed Lord Voldemort, once and for all. Harry will always be known as the Greatest Wizard of All Time, and no longer The Boy Who Lived.
Severus Snape will be the next Headmaster at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry – and will spend the rest of his life protecting the students above all else, just as his predecessor before him. Harry Potter’s name will live in infamy as he is reunited with the people he’s always loved behind the veil – His mum, his dad, Sirius, Ginny and Dumbledore. Bottom line… I believe Professor Severus Snape is a hero, perhaps the true hero of the whole story.
As I’ve posted before on this blog, I’m re-reading the Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling and I’m really enjoying it. I’m taking my time and paying attention to all the little details, which brings me to the topic at hand, Professor Snape. Is he a hero or villain?
Regardless of which he turns out to be in the seventh book, Deathly Hollows - slated to be released July 21st, he’s clearly my favorite character. He’s the most complex and mysterious of them all.
Now, like millions of other fans across the globe, I too have a theory about our dear Potions, or should I say Defense Against the Dark Arts, Master.
To understand where Professor Severus Snape is now, we must go back to the beginning of his life and see how he got to the place he currently occupies.
Severus Snape was born to misfortune (wizard father and muggle mother) and as a child cried a lot, displaying behavior of someone whose been abused. I think this degrading emotional abuse caused a young Severus to have low-self esteem and issues with trusting others. I believe he then poured himself into his studies, because he couldn’t trust people to not hurt him.
Of course, when he finally came to Hogwarts at eleven, his worst fears were confirmed when he was treated as an outcast and teased by the most popular kids in school (Marauders/Gryffindors – Potter, Black and Lupin). He lashed out at them, not in malice, but as a way to protect himself. Most victims of abuse hurt others to keep from getting hurt themselves. So, animosity grew between Snape, Potter, Black and Lupin – but not true hatred. If anything, I think Snape longed to be like James, but despised him because he couldn’t.
However, being a member of Slytherin house, Snape found acceptance from people like Malfoy, Lestrange and the others who eventually became death eaters. In other words – he didn’t really fit in anywhere and by default hung out with the wrong crowd.
Snape was always in the background, learning, studying, being alone – never stepping out front and showing what he was truly capable of. He’s smart like Hermione, but lacked her confidence and didn’t have the fortune of befriending a Ron and Harry. I think, often times when Professor Snape snapped at Hermione for being ‘an insufferable know-it-all’, it was mostly out of jealousy. You know how the old saying goes: You’re usually guilty of what you find irritating in someone else.
I feel that perhaps Snape went with the flow, keeping all his true emotions inside, thus teaching himself to be an excellent Occlumens, able to hide his thoughts and emotions, so people couldn’t use them against him, including the powerful Lord Voldemort.
I think Snape joined the Death Eaters not out of a desire for power, but to have a place to fit in. He didn’t have the love of a family, he didn’t have the support of friends and he didn’t have the love of his life (Lily Evans – Lily Potter – Harry’s mother). All he had was his potions, his school, and his knowledge – which was great, but not that anyone knew.
How do I know they were great? Look what Harry learned just from the notes left in the potions book by the Half-Blood Prince. At a young age, Snape had an understanding of his craft that exceeded even the teachers. He not only figured out short cuts and better ways to perform written formulas, but created new spells. He also built a wall around himself so strong and so tall, he couldn’t see over it. He didn’t know his own greatness. So, he made a mistake and joined forces with Voldemort - Not because he ‘had’ to, but because he wanted to fit in somewhere… anywhere.
Snape discovered it was more than what he bargained for. Voldemort was no different than is evil parents, or the bullies at school. Everyone tried to present them selves as the best, all the while Snape just sits back in the shadows and watches. He witnesses Voldemort growing in power and influence, and the Potters, Black, Lupin and Dumbledore fighting on the other side, all the while Pettigrew (Wormtail) slithers back and forth between the two camps. None of it concerned him. He was neither for, nor against any of it. He disliked both sides and trusted neither – until he heard part of the prophecy given by Sibyl Trelawney.
I think Snape realized how important of a role he played when he recited the prophecy to Voldemort, but then it was too late to take it back. I think perhaps Snape was able to Occlumens Voldemort and saw what he planned to do – and Snape felt responsible. I think it scared him, and for the first time he actually ‘chose’ the side he wanted to be on, and it wasn’t with Voldemort.
I believe he then went to the one person that he felt accepted him and saw him for what he truly was, and told him everything. Dumbledore helped Snape see himself for what he truly was and gave him the confidence to break away from Voldemort, which he discovered wasn’t as hard to do as he previously believed. Snape realized Voldemort was no more powerful than he was, yet Voldemort was none-the-wiser, nor anyone else for that matter, except Dumbledore – who then began to train Snape to become a spy for the Order. For the first time in his life, Snape had a purpose and someone who believed in him, and that’s really all he ever needed.
I don’t think Potter, Lupin or Black fully accepted Snape as a member of the Order, knowing he was once a Deatheater, but to keep up the rouse, Snape played the part of bitter rival – which somehow resulted in James saving his life. Now, he owed a life debt, but that’s not why Snape has been looking out for Harry all these years. I think he feels responsible for Lily and James death, because he could have stopped it, but out of his anger he chose not to, or he couldn’t without exposing his loyalties. So, guilt and owing a life debt has had him watching over Harry ever since, but he doesn’t always like it – because Harry is a lot like his father, James. He’s popular, likable and headstrong. He also reminds Snape of his mother, Lily, whom Snape loved and perhaps feels guilty over her death.
That brings me to the present and how Snape fits in with what happened in The Half Blood Prince and what I think will happen in Deathly Hallows.
The one thing I know about Headmaster Albus Dumbledore, it’s his insatiable love and loyalty to students at Hogwarts. It was this love that caused Tom Riddle to fear Dumbledore. Not because Voldemort fears Dumbledore is more powerful, but because Dumbledore is the only person in the world who ever cared about Tom Riddle. Love scares Voldemort, because it’s a power he doesn’t understand.
For Snape, that love saved him, combined with perhaps the love of and for Lily Potter as well. But, it’s also in his understanding that the same love Dumbledore had for him, he also has for ALL students of Hogwarts, including Harry and Draco, which caused Snape to have to kill him. First, bound by the unbreakable vow made with Narcissa – to do ‘whatever Voldemort had commanded Draco’, and knowing that in order to save Draco’s life (which would have been Dumbledore’s ultimate desire) Snape had to do it. He had every opportunity to kill Harry afterward, but he didn’t. If he was so evil to kill Dumbledore, killing Draco or Harry would have been nothing to him. I believe Dumbledore communicated with Snape via Occlumency and then begged him to do it, that it was the only way – and gave him instructions on what to do to finish destroying all the horcrux that remained.
Which brings me to what I think will happen.
Harry will destroy all but the last Horcrux, which he will discover is in the very scar on his head. He will face Voldemort, but be unable to kill him and get severely hurt – but Snape will save him and cast the final blow that kills Voldemort. Then Snape will reveal to Harry the whole truth of everything, through Occlumency and through his words. He and Harry will finally have it out and Harry will finally see Snape for who he truly is and then realize what Snape will have to do. Severus Snape will have to kill Harry Potter, because Harry is the last Horcrux. As long as he still lives, Voldemort will always be able to return. Harry willingly chooses to sacrifice himself (much like Dumbledore and his father). He will make Snape enter into an unbreakable vow to always protect his friends. Snape will then kill Harry Potter – and then tell the world that it was Harry who finally destroyed Lord Voldemort, once and for all. Harry will always be known as the Greatest Wizard of All Time, and no longer The Boy Who Lived.
Severus Snape will be the next Headmaster at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry – and will spend the rest of his life protecting the students above all else, just as his predecessor before him. Harry Potter’s name will live in infamy as he is reunited with the people he’s always loved behind the veil – His mum, his dad, Sirius, Ginny and Dumbledore. Bottom line… I believe Professor Severus Snape is a hero, perhaps the true hero of the whole story.
Crazy4Smallville's Weekly Review 6:16
Have you ever been to a restaurant and saw a picture of a big, juicy piece of steak as the special and ordered it, fidgeting all through the appetizer, waiting to sink your teeth into the scrumptious tender meat?
Well, that's what I wanted. Instead was served a dry, bland, burnt piece of jerky that choked me and seared my taste buds so that everything else tasted just as bad. I know I'll never order that item again, but at this point I'm not too sure if I want to go back to that restaurant. I know they have other great items on the menu, but they keep serving me the same old crap every time.
Till next time,
~Crazy4Smallville
Well, that's what I wanted. Instead was served a dry, bland, burnt piece of jerky that choked me and seared my taste buds so that everything else tasted just as bad. I know I'll never order that item again, but at this point I'm not too sure if I want to go back to that restaurant. I know they have other great items on the menu, but they keep serving me the same old crap every time.
Till next time,
~Crazy4Smallville
Thursday, March 15, 2007
New Word - Prithee
New vocabulary word.
Prithee - Used to express a request or wish.
Now, how do I use this in a sentence?
It is my prithee to know to the truth.
I prithee to be let in!
Not too sure about this one. It's definately a new word for me. It seems almost alien. But, it is my prithee to know the truth of how to use it properly. So, if you know the correct use of this word, I prithee you tell me.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Prithee - Used to express a request or wish.
Now, how do I use this in a sentence?
It is my prithee to know to the truth.
I prithee to be let in!
Not too sure about this one. It's definately a new word for me. It seems almost alien. But, it is my prithee to know the truth of how to use it properly. So, if you know the correct use of this word, I prithee you tell me.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Re-Reading Harry Potter Series
I'm already on book three, The Prisoner of Azkeban, and I have to say that I love this series even better the third time around. I'm taking my time and really soaking up the small bits of description that escaped my attention the first two reads.
I remember the first time I read the series. It was after the fourth book, The Goblet of Fire, had been released and I had already threw out my daughter's paperbacks (because I hadn't read them and was told by the religious community they were evil and taught children witchcraft). I couldn't believe I did such a thing. Here I was - a parent who tried to teach their children to think and make judgements for themselves - banning them because of heretical hearsay.
Well, it bothered me so much, I went out and bought the first book, The Sorcerer's Stone, read it - and loved it. Yes, Harry Potter's a wizard. Yes, he uses a magic wand and Yes, he casts spells like lumos and expelleramus. However, he uses no more real witchcraft than the fairy godmother who placed glass slippers on Cinderella's feet. It isn't true witchcraft - it's fantasy, and well-written one at that. If anything, I find Harry Potter and his friends, very moralistic and a good role model for children, and I completely understand why kids and adults alike have fallen in love with this character.
I learned the proverbial lesson - never to judge a book by it's cover, title and especially hearsay. I don't even read books listed on the NYTimes best seller list, because I find most of them are terrible. Some of the best stories I've ever read have never made the list. Some aren't even published, yet.
The second time I read through the series, I rushed through them trying to refresh the story in anticipation for the sixth book, The Half-Blood Prince. I wanted to make sure I was up-to-date on the story when this book came out. Well, that's sort of what I'm doing now, only I'm taking my time and enjoying the story (besides, I'm saving money because while I'm reading the series I'm not out buying new books to add to my library).
After reading The Prisoner of Azekban, The Goblet of Fire, The Order of the Phoenix and The Half-Blood Prince, I had the impression that The Sorcerer's Stone and The Chamber of Secrets was not as exciting. But, having just re-read them - I find that not true. I really enjoyed them and found that were perhaps the most magical of them all. It's the fun adventure in these two books that set up all the excitement in the last four. It was here that we first heard about Quidditch, Dobby the House Elf, learned to despise the Dursley's, discovered Diagon Alley and Hogwarts, met Albus Dumbledore, rolled our eyes at Draco Malfoy and shook our heads at Neville Longbottom. It was in these two stories that introduced us to Tom Riddle and started filling in the past of Lord Voldemort. We befriended the half-giant Hagrid and longed to live at the Burrow with the Weasley's. Ron became our best friend and Hermoine showed her true genius.
Rowling put so much heart and humor into these first two stories that my opinion has changed - and I find these two the best of the series so far. However, just starting on The Prisoner of Azekeban - I may change my opinion next week. LOL!
J.K. Rowling may not be the best writer in the world (she uses a passive/telling voice), she's at least one of the most entertaining and creative. I've never wanted so much to be a kid again. To that, I take my hat off for her.
Well, I need to get back to my book.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
I remember the first time I read the series. It was after the fourth book, The Goblet of Fire, had been released and I had already threw out my daughter's paperbacks (because I hadn't read them and was told by the religious community they were evil and taught children witchcraft). I couldn't believe I did such a thing. Here I was - a parent who tried to teach their children to think and make judgements for themselves - banning them because of heretical hearsay.
Well, it bothered me so much, I went out and bought the first book, The Sorcerer's Stone, read it - and loved it. Yes, Harry Potter's a wizard. Yes, he uses a magic wand and Yes, he casts spells like lumos and expelleramus. However, he uses no more real witchcraft than the fairy godmother who placed glass slippers on Cinderella's feet. It isn't true witchcraft - it's fantasy, and well-written one at that. If anything, I find Harry Potter and his friends, very moralistic and a good role model for children, and I completely understand why kids and adults alike have fallen in love with this character.
I learned the proverbial lesson - never to judge a book by it's cover, title and especially hearsay. I don't even read books listed on the NYTimes best seller list, because I find most of them are terrible. Some of the best stories I've ever read have never made the list. Some aren't even published, yet.
The second time I read through the series, I rushed through them trying to refresh the story in anticipation for the sixth book, The Half-Blood Prince. I wanted to make sure I was up-to-date on the story when this book came out. Well, that's sort of what I'm doing now, only I'm taking my time and enjoying the story (besides, I'm saving money because while I'm reading the series I'm not out buying new books to add to my library).
After reading The Prisoner of Azekban, The Goblet of Fire, The Order of the Phoenix and The Half-Blood Prince, I had the impression that The Sorcerer's Stone and The Chamber of Secrets was not as exciting. But, having just re-read them - I find that not true. I really enjoyed them and found that were perhaps the most magical of them all. It's the fun adventure in these two books that set up all the excitement in the last four. It was here that we first heard about Quidditch, Dobby the House Elf, learned to despise the Dursley's, discovered Diagon Alley and Hogwarts, met Albus Dumbledore, rolled our eyes at Draco Malfoy and shook our heads at Neville Longbottom. It was in these two stories that introduced us to Tom Riddle and started filling in the past of Lord Voldemort. We befriended the half-giant Hagrid and longed to live at the Burrow with the Weasley's. Ron became our best friend and Hermoine showed her true genius.
Rowling put so much heart and humor into these first two stories that my opinion has changed - and I find these two the best of the series so far. However, just starting on The Prisoner of Azekeban - I may change my opinion next week. LOL!
J.K. Rowling may not be the best writer in the world (she uses a passive/telling voice), she's at least one of the most entertaining and creative. I've never wanted so much to be a kid again. To that, I take my hat off for her.
Well, I need to get back to my book.
Till next time,
~T.L. Gray
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