BHBC Review: You Have No Idea

When I signed up to be a part of the BlogHer Book Club, I was excited about the prospect of having a reading project ahead of me.

I know. Why would I need an assignment to read a book? Well, I’ve found between my writing (both blog and WIP) and taking care of a toddler, time to sit and cuddle up with a book is becoming more difficult to carve out. At least without falling asleep five minutes in.

So, when I heard that the first book I could review was You Have No Idea by Vanessa Williams and her mother, Helen, I jumped at the chance. This is surprising since, I’ll admit, stories about movie stars aren’t generally my first (or second) choice off the bookshelf.

The book is an account of Vanessa’s path to fame, told not only in her own voice, but with her mother giving her thoughts throughout the story. If you remember much about Ms. Williams, you’ll know that path included a Miss America win and a naked photo scandal, in addition to her singing and acting career.

What you may not know is that Vanessa wasn’t your typical pageant girl, and the circumstances around her nude photos had more to do with a headstrong and naïve young girl than one trading sexy pics for cash.

The first half of the book I was drawn in. Stories of a girl who grew up with strong and loving parents, much like mine, were a comfort. The tales of how she ended up doing pageants, her attitude towards them, and how the win brought a storm of negativity upon her and her family long before the scandal did made her seem real. She didn’t always make the best choices, but she owned them.

Seeing how it all unfolded from her mother’s point of view made it especially compelling. Her mother didn’t gloss over mistakes her daughter made, but at the same time never abandoned her. In the first half of the book, I appreciated both women’s honesty and candor.

Then, Vanessa starts to get some real fame, fame for her talents in the singing and acting department, not just for being the subject of tabloids. That’s where she started to lose me. By the end of the story, I was no longer feeling for her, and some of the stories she tells, left me unable to relate. I found myself annoyed by her behavior towards others.

This is not to say that there won’t be people who enjoy You Have No Idea. We live in a culture that celebrates celebrity, so I have no doubts that the book will have an enthusiastic audience, even one cheering her on for being a strong woman. I would have been with them in the first half, but not by the end.

I was compensated for this BlogHer Book Club Review, however, the thoughts expressed here are my own.

Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday – Battleground!

This week on Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday, Tiffany and I stray from some of the more traditional programming with our reviews of Lifetime’s reality series 7 Days of Sex and Hulu’s original series Battleground.

The web is creating more and more content that goes far beyond YouTube videos of someone’s cat. Not that we don’t love videos of cats, but you know what I mean.

With the success of Felicia Day’s series The Guild, and the growth of Netflix and Hulu, web series are getting more and more attention. And with good reason.

Series like Leap Year and The Booth at the End, previously mentioned on this blog, show that there is much talent to be had (and watched) out there that isn’t going the mainstream way of major network approval.

That’s why I was pretty psyched to be reviewing Hulu’s first original series, Battleground.

It did not disappoint.

Battleground is a mockumentary following the campaign team of a Wisconsin State Senator running for US Senate. Campaign Manager ‘Tak’ (Jay Hayden) is dealing not only with the pressures of running a campaign, but the pressure of being the son of a hugely successful campaign manager, and having an 0 for 6 record himself.

The show definitely has its comedic elements, often delivered in the shape of the new guy, Ben (Ben Samuel) who’s “letter of reference” comes as a scroll (watch, you’ll see what I mean), and the incompetent, overconfident step son of the candidate, Jordan (Jordan T. Maxwell).

You don’t have to be interested in politics to enjoy the show. While that definitely plays a good part in making the show interesting, what with the lying and mudslinging, it’s the relationships between the characters and how their jobs affect those relationships, that makes the show compelling.

As regular readers here know, I’m a sucker for characters, and this show has good ones. Ali (Alison Haislip), the social media manager, is one of my favorites, as is Ben, Tak’s assistant. But honestly, you’ll have to watch and find your own. There are plenty to choose from.

The show feels current and unlike most mockumentary style shows (The Office, Parks and Recreation) this one feels a bit more real, without losing a sense of fun. Rather than seeking out laughs through the whole show, the laughs happen naturally in the course of what is happening. Kind of like life.

I think a big part of what makes this show work is it’s creator, JD Walsh. He loves Wisconsin, loves politics (he worked on the Kerry campaign), and is an actor. That love for what he is putting together really shines through.

I’ve read various criticisms about the show, but here’s my thing. The show isn’t frilly. It’s witty, clever even. The filming and production is clean and simple. The characters and the conversations are believable, rather than over the top. And when I sat down to watch the first episode, I just kept watching. In two evenings I gobbled up all 11 episodes and am eagerly awaiting the next one. (ed. note – and now I’ve watched all 12 – new episodes appear on Tuesdays!)

It may be my partiality to solid web content, but I’m giving Battleground a GTV. It’s a perfectly simple meal, a glass of wine, some good cheeses; a simple but wonderful treat.

Are you a fan of web programming? What shows have you discovered? Will you be checking out Battleground? (Seriously. Do it. Each episode is only about 20 minutes. Well worth the time.)

Now head on over and see what Tiffany thought of the Lifetime reality series, 7 Days of Sex. Yes, you read that right.

Stay tuned next week, when Tiffany and I review more of what’s out there, not just on the TV, but on the web.

Remember to stop by the #watchwed hashtag in Twitter to discuss any of today’s reviews, or to mention any television programs that you’d like to see on Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday in the future.

(ed. please forgive any missed typos…the kitties tried to be involved in the creation of this post. maybe I should have youtube’d that)

A Recap of The WatchWed Review System:

GTV (Gourmet TV): Everything we want and more
MacTV (MacNCheese TV): Guilty pleasure. Not perfect, but is satisfies
GMacTV (Gourmet MacNCheese TV): A combination of fine wine and comfort food
JFTV (Junk food TV): It’s not great for us, but we’ll go back for seconds
TBPTV (Twice Baked Potato TV): Part gourmet and delicious, while absolutely horrible for our cholesterol
SSTV (Still Simmering TV): It has potential, but the jury is still out
NIV (Nyquil Induced Viewing): Perfect for that late night television sleep timer
LOTV (Liver&Onions TV): Do we really have to explain? Blech

Social Media for Good – How Can You Help?

UPDATE: Sadly, I awoke to read this tweet from Diana:
Julian and Preston were born this morning. We held them as they met Jesus. Please pray for us.
Funds collected thus far will be sent to the family. If anyone still wishes to make a donation, whatever is not needed will be sent to The March of Dimes to help other moms and babies.

~~~~~~~~~~

I’ve talked before about how awesome Social Media can be for bringing the best out of people. We hear a lot about the bad – social media used for bullying and the like – but I like to share the stories that get less love. The good ones.

A blogger I’ve been following for quite some time, Diana of Hormonal Imbalances, is pregnant with twin baby boys. The story of what has been going on with her this past week can be found here.

For those of you who didn’t click through, Diana is in the hospital. Her water broke at 18 weeks and the doctors were telling her to induce. As you may guess, even if you have no baby experience, the odds of a baby surviving at this stage outside of the womb are slim to none.

Diana and her husband made the choice not to induce. To wait it out. To give her two baby boys a chance at surviving. Through a series of tweets from Diana’s hospital bed, many of us learned that the hospital was pressuring Diana regarding her decision. The babies are healthy. Diana is doing fine. And yet, they were trying to make her feel like her decision was wrong.

The interwebs came out to support her. Many of us called and emailed the hospital to let them know that their patient should be cared for, not bullied.

The hospital apologized and Diana is being cared for properly now.

But some of us would like to do more.

As any of you who’ve ever set foot in a hospital and left with a bill know, hospitals don’t come cheap. Overnight stays are expensive, and for the moment, Diana is staying put.

After chatting with Diana’s friend Erika of Namammaste, we decided that we could put the power of the interwebs to a greater use in raising money for Diana and her family.

I know that a lot of people are finding their budgets tighter than ever, but even $5 can make a difference. Just think, if 5000 people were to donate just $5 each, that’s $25000.

To that end, I make a promise.

If I get 5000 people to donate to help Diana, I am going to do something I don’t want to.

Me and my long hair.

Specifically, I am going to chop off my hair.

You see, my hair is long. It took quite a while for me to get it there and I like my long hair. You might even say it’s a security blanket of sorts.

But that doesn’t matter. I’d rather see people band together to help out this mama. My hair will grow back.

So, 5000 people. It may sound like a lot, but in the world of the internet, it really isn’t. When we hit the number, I’ll pull out the webcam and the scissors and chop-chop-chop for you all to see.

Ready? Get to donating.

(Click on the photo below to donate. If you have any problems with the button below [Chrome seems to not enjoy it], you can send your Paypal payment to: HeartsForDianaDrive@gmail.com)

And tweeting. And “facebooking”. And blogging.

Want to do more? What will you do when we reach 5000 donations? How about 10000? Let me know how you want to help in the comments below.

[If you are a business or organization that would like to do more, please feel free to contact me at ambernwest @ gmail.com]

Update: I would like to add a note that Diana has never contacted me to ask for financial assistance. I decided to do this after speaking with a close friend of Diana’s who consulted with Diana’s family before I continued with my idea to do this.

Some have asked about what the funds will cover. Funds will go towards anything that won’t be covered – copays, NICU costs, not to mention expenses incurred because of the lengthy hospital stay, such as childcare, food, gas, etc… If we mange to raise more than needed, the additional funds will go to the March of Dimes.

Thank you to the many people who have already responded supporting this.

Forever Twenty-One

I’ve been tagged by two different bloggers with two different sets of questions, for a total of twenty-one questions. I will not be passing this along, ‘cause I’m a rebel (and a loner, Dottie), but I will answer them to the best of my ability on a weekend.

First on the block, elevensies! Not a Hobbit reference, but the eleven questions sent my way by Mike Schulenberg. I responded to this tagging mostly because he referenced Monty Python in his. Awesome.

If you could live in a fictional world, where would that be?

When the hubs and I were dating, one of the first gifts he gave me was Myst – the book, not the video game, although the video game is also way awesome and I would live there. I always thought that world was so serene (in its own way) and intricate.

And of course, I would want to ability to create worlds by writing them.

Fiction or non-fiction?

Both. Don’t make me choose!

If I was forced to choose one for the rest of my life I would probably go with non-fiction. I can always make up fictional stories for myself. Learning that comes from reading non-fiction fuels new stories, so I wouldn’t want to miss out on that.

Do you read in noisy or quiet places?

I have a toddler. Yes, that is an answer.

But seriously, I like having music on at ALL times, so I guess noisy, although I don’t really think of music as “noise”.

Do reviews influence your choice of reads?

They can, but they aren’t the only criteria. Reviews that just say, “Dis book bitez” don’t really tell me anything. But if a bad review reveals details about poor writing or story development, or ideas that I might find bothersome, it may hinder my purchase.

I do enjoy reading bad reviews, though. Like this one for A Confederacy of Dunces, a book I loved as a teen:

“If you want to read about a bunch of dunces go for it, because that is ALL this book is!”

[Well, reviewer, yes. I guess the book should have mentioned it was a confederacy of...oh WAIT A MINUTE!]

A review from a trusted friend holds way more weight than a random stranger on the interwebs. But even than, books are very personal choices.

Audio books or paperbacks?

I haven’t actually tried audio books. If I had a commute to work, I imagine I would enjoy them. Especially if this guy was reading to me.

But, since I don’t, I prefer the voice in my head with a paperback.

What was the first book you remember reading?

Something by Dr. Seuss, I’m sure.

First “grown up” book I recall reading was Jane Eyre. I was in fourth or fifth grade and my mom had just finished reading it. She may not remember, but she handed me a list of words from the book that she didn’t think I would understand and told me that I could read the book once I defined all the words on the list.

I sat with the dictionary, looked them all up and wrote down the definitions, then traded the paper in for the book.

I kind of love that my mom made me work for it.

Favorite author?

This is happening.

I don’t think I really have one. I loved Roald Dahl as a kid and still think his books are great, but as an adult I don’t have one that stands out in my mind. I mean, there are classics like Shakespeare and Gabriel Garcia Marquez that I couldn’t be without, but I don’t know that they are my favorite.

Also, when typing this, I totally typed Sharkespeare.

Classic or Modern Novels?

Hard choice.

I have really varied taste. On my bookshelf you might find Love in the Time of Cholera next to a Sophie Kinsella novel, sitting on top of Cervantes and Dante, sandwiched between Tad Williams and C.S. Lewis. I don’t like to choose between them.

So, I won’t. You can’t make me.

Have you ever met your favorite author?

Since I don’t have one, no. And other than some of the lovely authors I’ve met online, I have never met one of them in person.

My kid brother (I say “kid”, but he is 26) met Mo Willems and got him to sign Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus for me. That’s about as close as I’ve been.

I was appropriately stoked. The Pigeon books are the awesome.

At this moment, I would love to meet A.J. Jacobs. I adore his books.

Book groups or solitary reading?

I have never been part of a book club. I am not against it, but it would take the right group of people for me to enjoy it. I have not met that group of people yet.

Actually, I take that back. The people that would make the perfect book group for me happen to live in Seattle and Arizona. So, unless we start having some sort of Google Video Chat book club, I see little book clubbing in my future.

If you could read only one book for the rest of your life, what would it be?

The rest of my life? That’s mean. But, I’d want something useful in various situations, so…

The Bible. Surprised?

And on to the next set of questions, brought to you by Tiffany White.

Do you prefer coffee or tea in the mornings?

Coffee. It’s not so much the caffeine as it is the ritual. I could probably replace the morning coffee with tea and be fine with it, since I do love tea.

What book have you read over and over again?

I’ve read Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead a number of times. I love reading plays – which probably explains why I am such a dialog junkie when I write. I’ve read quite a few of Shakespeare’s comedies over and over as well.

What’s your favorite outdoor activity?

I despise the heat and I live in Florida. Obviously, those two things don’t really mix, so, if I have to be outside and active (ergo, increasing the heat factor) then I want to be in the water, swimming.

When I lived in Washington state, the idea of hiking appealed to me, since I love to explore in the woods and found the mountains breathtaking. Alas, my faulty heart valves made real hiking incredibly difficult.

Do you cook and/or bake straight from the recipe, or do you get creative and throw things together in the kitchen?

Definitely creative. I love cookbooks for the ideas they plant, but I often just go to the cupboard and see what I can make happen. I love pairing flavors that people don’t necessarily imagine working.

I recently even attempted baking by ratios rather than recipe. Math is hard, ya’ll.

Where is your favorite place to visit in the United States?

Hmmm. Seattle tops the list because my two very best friends in the whole wide world live there. Oh, and it’s full of bookstores, coffee, and gorgeous scenery.

Number two…probably New York. I kind of adore Brooklyn.

From my last zoo visit.

Which animals must you see when visiting a zoo?

Sloths. Lllamas. Lemurs. Pretty much everything. I am an animal lover. Even the creepy crawly stuff, like snakes, lizards, and scorpions. I love it all.

What’s your favorite television show airing today?

I don’t know what my favorite is. Love BBC’s Downton Abbey and Sherlock (eagerly awaiting the new seasons of both).

And no, I’ve never been to England. A shame, right?

What’s your favorite television show of all time?

Another tough one! I’ll go with the only two I bothered to actually purchase on DVD. Firefly and Arrested Development. I am sure there are others that I like just as well, but those are the first two that come to mind.

What’s your favorite movie of all time?

Again, with the favorites. I am horrible at these questions. I am sure after this is posted I’ll think, “Gah! I totally love Movie X and didn’t mention it!”

I love Emma, Ever After, and Sliding Doors. Mildly interesting sidenote, I don’t really love Gwyneth Paltrow, yet she is in two movies I have an attachment to. Go figure.

What do you like to snack on when at the movie theater?

I am not a huge fan of the traditional snacks (I tire of the fake butter popcorn rather quickly and will be sick if I eat a box of candy) but I do allow myself a big ole Cherry Coke when I watch a movie at the theater.

Unless it’s a three hour epic film, in which case I avoid the mega large drink and stick to a small water. ‘Cause, you know, can’t take a pee break in the middle of a movie I am paying to see.

We have an independent movie house here that I LOVE where you can order real food before the movie starts and a waitress brings it to you. I can watch an indie film and get my grub on.

Sigh.

Who is your current Hollywood or otherwise famous crush?

How much time do you have?

Oddly enough, I was never that girl when I was younger. You know, the one with the NKOTB Trapper Keeper, doodling Mrs. Amber McIntire on the back of my homework. (That’s one of those guys, right?)

Even now, when other women talk about dudes like Paul Walker and Matthew McConahowdoyouspellit or whatever hard body is the flavor of the day, I don’t get it. I mean, I get it, aesthetically and what not. It just doesn’t do anything for me.

Of the guys to lately catch my attention, Richard Armitage is probably the one that most ladies would be quick to approve. It’s his voice that I love, and the intensity he brings to the characters he plays. And, yeah, he doesn’t hurt the eyes any.

Among my geekier flames:

David Tennant, for being funny, Scottish, and The Doctor (because, really, there need be no other reasons than those).

Hugh Laurie for the funny. I’ve long been a fan of the British when it comes to humor.

And, because Tiffany asked this and I am sure she is thinking I left someone out, if I find a guy funny and interesting, then he tends to falls into the “I adore you” category (like Chris Hardwick, Craig Bierko, et al.). Therefore, I reserve the right to add someone to this list at any time, or refer to an actor as “my boyfriend” in conversation.

That about covers all the questions. If this bored you out of your mind, you can thank Tiffany and Mike.

Friday Favorites – Links and a Whole Lot More

It’s time to share some of my favorite things from this past week or so. Enjoy!

What Makes a Man Sexy? Part 1 and Part 2: Those who know me probably find it odd that a post with this name is on my list, but this isn’t about shirtless men with rock hard abs. Imelda uses some famous examples of men who are sexy in the ways that matter, at least to me. (The fact that Dr. Who gets some love in the posts makes me just a bit partial.)

Marcy Kennedy’s Blog: Yes, I know. I just gave you the link to an entire blog. That’s because I rarely miss a post by Marcy. She writes about writing (and knows her stuff) and geekery, sometimes combined, and has the ability to entertain and teach at the same time. She’s also a pretty cool human being.

Where in the World?: Ingrid’s post asks where you would go if you could take a sabbatical, then shares photos of where she would head. I have to admit, it got me daydreaming about where I could go. In the end, I spent some time browsing vacation properties in Scotland and emailing them to the hubs. Fingers crossed for a future anniversary.

How (Not) to Write Great Characters: An amusing take on writing characters in your story by Ava Jae. I totally need to go edit that twirly mustache now.

When Famous People Are on Trial: Mary is new to the blogging world and writes with authority as a former Federal Prosecutor. Being a fan of all things law, I am super excited to see what posts she has simmering.

Who’s Ready to Stop the Insanity?: Bella is a total sweetheart of a blogger. Don’t believe me? Check the girl’s comments. Readers can’t help but get into a conversation with this girl. Her post on women and defining pretty is worth talking about.

Games You Should Be Playing: If you love games, you should be following Jen Kirchner’s series. She tells you what is worth playing in a very amusing way. I may never get anything done ever.

New to blogging and can’t seem to figure out what you’re doing? Been blogging for a while, but running out of ideas? Check out Liberty Montano’s Novel Blogging. Totally meets my criteria for educational and entertaining without an ounce of condescension.

And of course, for all things TV related, check out my Wednesday writing partner, Tiffany White. This week she told us who the most slapworthy characters are on TV.

On the non-blog front:

I think board games are pretty awesome. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to play too many since the kid came along (tiny pieces and toddlers don’t mix). The new web series Tabletop on Felicia Day’s Geek and Sundry Channel is geekery at it’s finest. The show teaches you how to play a new game each week, care of Wil Wheaton and a few interesting guests. Check out this week’s Settler of Catan.

When I am writing, I always have music playing. This week I discovered the sounds of Pale White Moon. The fact that they hail from New Haven, CT may have something to do with my attraction (since, a number of years ago, a little baby was born in a hospital there who’s name is ME). You can learn more about them here. Check out the track Heirlooms.

A big thank you to all of my readers, particularly those who have been following my Tell Me a Story series. I’ve received some fantastic messages both public and private and it means a ton to me that you all are enjoying the story. If you are one of those enjoying the tale, the next time you think to forward that funny cat video to your coworkers, family, or friends, why not shoot them a link to the series?

Have a great weekend, everyone! I’m off to figure out how to make this happen:

Tell Me a Story – Part VI

Last week, I changed things up asking you all to go Mad Libs style with your comments. You gave me quite the variety of words, but I’ll be honest. When I sat down in front of my computer on Wednesday morning (yes, that is usually when I write, pantser style, or more accurately, pantsless) I wrote up the installment completely forgetting that I had to use one of your comments!

Have no fear. I went back, grabbed a comment, and went back to work. Thank you to Patricia Sands for her Mad Lib contribution this week: snort (v), suspicious (adj), and undies (n).

Onward!

~~~~~~~~~

“He’s such a little worm.”

“I am sorry, Katerina. I am not surprised, but I am sorry.”

I sat on the coffee shop couch, legs tucked underneath, sipping on my coffee.

“It’s ok. I knew he wouldn’t take my giving notice well, but I didn’t expect to be escorted out of the office and off the property. Guess I won’t be coming to visit you boys on hockey night any time in the future.”

“You come when you want. Let that trus say something to us.”

I smiled. It didn’t hurt having someone like Anton in your corner.

“So, you wanted to show me something?”

“Ah. Yes. Your new man friend. He does not exist.”

I let out a snort.

“He doesn’t exist?”

Anton pointed to his laptop, sitting on the coffee table in front of us.

“He is nowhere. I do not like it.”

“Oh, come on, Anton. What would happen if I try to search for you online?”

Anton gave a slow, mischievous grin. “You would not find me.”

“So, maybe Eli is just as paranoid as you. As shocking as it is to someone like me, some people just don’t have their information strewn across the internet. It doesn’t automatically make them a suspicious character.”

Anton shrugged. “He is not me, so I still do not like it.”

“Well, I appreciate you looking out for me, but really, I’m sure it’s fine. Just because the man doesn’t tell the world what he had for breakfast every day doesn’t mean he’s a psychopath.”

“True.”

“I’d be more concerned about my roommate.”

“Oh?”

“Well…” I thought for a moment about Eli’s call. I wasn’t worried about Red before it. Maybe Eli was like Anton. Protective. “I’m sure it’s nothing actually. She’s just a little odd. Odd, but harmless, I’m sure.”

“Give me her full name. I will find out.”

“It’s not a big deal, Anton.”

“For later, then. When I am bored.”

I rolled my eyes and complied. “It’s Red Reid.”

Anton looked at me, face straight, eyebrows raised. “This is her name?”

“Yes. This is.”

“Are you making fun of me, kotik?”

“Nyet.” I leaned in and gave Anton a peck on the cheek, before hopping off the couch. “Gotta run. Need to grab some groceries if I am going to eat tonight.”

“Just steal from your odd roommate.”

“Oh, believe me, I would if I could.” I looked around at the other patrons in the coffee shop and lowered my voice. “She’s vegan. Not terribly compatible with my tastes.”

“At least she will not be stealing your food.”

“Ah, look at you, Anton, finding the silver lining.”

“I am the ray of sunshine.”

I headed for the door, waving before making my exit.

~~~~~~~~~

I looked at the address in my phone for a third time before knocking on the door.

“Kate, come on in.” Eli stood in the doorway, dressed but hair rumpled and damp. “Sorry, had a call first thing that set me behind.”

I entered, glancing around at what looked more like a sparsely furnished apartment than an office.

“Is this where you live?”

He nodded. “And work.”

“Oh.”

“Sorry. I was going to mention it, but then I realized that it might sound a bit off putting. I hope it’s not a problem.”

It didn’t really bother me. I was no less safe alone with him in his apartment than I would be alone with him in an office.

“No, it’s fine. It was just unexpected. Had you answered the door in your undies, we might be having a different conversation.” I unbuttoned my coat, taking it off and laying it over my arm. “So, what now?”

Eli grinned and took my coat, walking it to the coat closet by the door. “Have a seat at the table. I’ve a laptop for you there.”

I took a seat, checking out the various wires and hubs underneath the table, being sure not to accidentally kick anything. Eli walked over and sat down opposite me.

“I’ll have a variety of things for you to do. For now, I’ll need to rely on your knowledge of the area for setting up appointments with prospects. Taking people places that make them feel special.”

“Fancy dinners, things like that?”

“For the most part. Basically, if someone was trying to woo you, what would work?”

I shifted in my chair, not sure if I was expected to answer the question. “Do you have any preferences?”

“It’s more about the client, really. That’s where you’ll be doing some additional research. I’ll give you some names, and you see what you can find out about the person. Likes, dislikes, that sort of thing. Helps with the courting process. Make sense?”

“Yeah. Basically, check these guys out as if I wanted to date them.”

Eli laughed. “You aren’t far off.”

“I can handle that. I basically did this anytime Meera brought a new guy around. Nothing like an embarrassing Facebook photo to put an end to a relationship with a quickness.”

“That sort of thing is helpful, too, actually. Some companies don’t look well on their executives making a spectacle of themselves.”

“I bet. Well, I think I’ve got it.”

“Good.” Eli grabbed a sheet of paper and handed it to me. “Here are a few names to start. Take your time and let me know what you find.”

He stood up and walked over to the coat closet, grabbing a black coat and scarf before walking back to the table.

“I have a few appointments to get to. Feel free to help yourself to anything in the kitchen. I’ll arm the alarm, but the code is 28492 if you need to leave. Call me if you need anything.” He placed a key on the table next to my laptop. “Welcome aboard, Kate.”

As the door shut behind him I looked around the apartment. It was obvious that Eli couldn’t have been here long. The main area I was sitting in had a couch, the table in front of me, and a few chairs. The kitchen counters were void of appliances, and the glass front cabinets revealed only a few dishes. It was the perfect space for a man that didn’t exist.

Still, we were high up, so the view from the apartment was gorgeous, even on the typically overcast day. I unhooked the various cables tethering me to the table and took the laptop and sheet of paper to the couch. I waited for the computer to find a wireless network while I looked at the list of names.

There were only five there, but the fourth one down jumped out immediately.

David Vinson. Meera’s fiancé.

~~~~~~~

This week, you get to vote, although it is a blind vote of sorts.

You can choose one of the following: Anton, Eli, Meera, or Red. Your choice will have a major impact on where the story goes next. Choose wisely (and tell me why in the comments ).

Part VII

Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday – Eureka! (Again)

This week on Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday, Tiffany and I hit you with a little Sci-Fi television with Lost Girl and Eureka.

Wait a minute? Haven’t we discussed Eureka before?

Well, sort of.

Back in August of last year, I started a Eureka review only to spin it into a bit of a rant on the state of Sci-Fi on television. I discovered while reviewing that the show received its walking papers, so a rant about the networks killing science fiction ensued. You can read it here if you weren’t with us back then.

The first episode of Eureka’s final season aired recently, so it seemed like an appropriate time to revisit the review.

Eureka is set in a small Oregon town (actually filmed in British Columbia) inhabited by scientists and geniuses.  It is a government-financed community that allows the townspeople to cultivate their gifts and cultivate their various projects.

At the center of it all is former U.S. Marshal and now reluctant town sheriff Jack Carter (Colin Ferguson), who helps the town figure out various mysterious events that take place, usually as a result of the town’s various experiments.  Jack’s character, while not a genius like everyone else, repeatedly saves the day.  His ability to think simply and not “get in his own way” gives him a special skill most in the town lack.

What I really love about the show is how this average guy, Sheriff Carter, becomes a vital part of this genius community. His IQ (111, which he is pretty proud of) practically makes him an idiot compared to his neighbors, yet that doesn’t get in the way of his job. In fact, in a lot of ways, it is why he is so good at it.

The show isn’t just full of geek goodies. There’s family drama for Jack, who is raising his somewhat rebellious daughter, navigating the complications of an ex, and the possibility of romance. In other words, the show has story, not just cool toys and quips.

I’ve watched more episodes since my rant last year and I can honestly say, if you enjoy quirk and you enjoy Science Fiction, add this one to your Netflix queue. For extra geekiness, keep your eye out for recurring characters played by geek god and goddess, Wil Wheaton and Felicia Day.

Insert geeky squee.

New episodes are currently airing on the SyFy network (the network that cancelled the show despite the fact that it is one of their most watched, sending the interwebs into an uproar) and Hulu.

I have to give Eureka a MacTV. While there is the occasional cheese factor, it’s cheese I enjoy oh-so-well. Definitely satisfying, and leaves you ready to go back for seconds.

Now click over to Tiffany’s blog and find out more about Lost Girl.

Come back next week when we review something fun and interesting…  

Remember to stop by the #watchwed hashtag in Twitter to discuss any of today’s reviews, or to mention any television programs that you’d like to see on Why It’s Worth a Watch Wednesday in the future.

A Recap of The WatchWed Review System:

GTV (Gourmet TV): Everything we want and more
MacTV (MacNCheese TV): Guilty pleasure. Not perfect, but is satisfies
GMacTV (Gourmet MacNCheese TV): A combination of fine wine and comfort food
JFTV (Junk food TV): It’s not great for us, but we’ll go back for seconds
TBPTV (Twice Baked Potato TV): Part gourmet and delicious, while absolutely horrible for our cholesterol
SSTV (Still Simmering TV): It has potential, but the jury is still out
NIV (Nyquil Induced Viewing): Perfect for that late night television sleep timer
LOTV (Liver&Onions TV): Do we really have to explain? Blech

Character Interview #2 – Eli

Your votes determined this week’s interview – it was neck and neck between Anton and Eli, but in the end, Eli definitely took this one. So, let’s not delay…

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I’d like to welcome Eli to our interview series. I know you have a busy schedule, so thank you for joining us.

It’s absolutely my pleasure.

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? We’ll start with the standard where are you from? I can assume from the accent that you aren’t a Seattle native.

Good assumption. I’m from England, as you may have guessed. More specifically, a little town called Knighton.

What’s Knighton like?

It’s a bit frozen in time, actually. Very traditional, a charming place to grow up. There’s a lot of history there, which fascinated me as a child. My parents use to take me to St Mary’s, which has been around since the 13^th century, and I’d dream up stories of the people who must have touched the same stone walls I did. You know, knights and daring nobles and the like.

You like a good story then?

Doesn’t everyone?

::grins::

Much hockey being played in Knighton?

No. I lived in Russia and Canada briefly. Learning to play seemed like the thing to do.

::leans in and lowers voice::

I’m not very good.

Do you like my interviewing couch? Craigslist.

Are you enjoying it here?

It’s proven to be a beneficial relocation thus far.

Beneficial for your business?

Yes. Among other things.

You’re a headhunter, right? What’s that like?

More of a problem solver, really. I find resources for those who need them. On some occasions, that involves identifying the problem before I can offer a solution.

I’m guessing business is going well, since you hired someone to help recently.

Ah, yes, Kate. Lovely girl. I usually work alone, but having a local on staff can be helpful in identifying opportunities and making connections.

Connections? No offense to Kate, but I don’t know how great her connections are going to be.

You would be surprised. In my job it is very important that you never underestimate a target.

Target?

Yes, someone you’ve set in your sights. A candidate.

Right. I’m having a little difficulty concentrating this morning. Guess I should have had some coffee. I have quite a few questions from our readers. Do you mind?

Not at all.

Are you a tea drinker?

Yes. Earl Grey in the evening, with a good book.

What’s on your nightstand currently? Er, bookwise.

Jotaro’s Shadow Warrior. And a very old copy of Arthurian tales.

How about the nights you don’t feel up to reading? What do you watch?

I don’t watch much television, except for the news.

Tiffany will not approve.

Who?

Don’t worry about it. You’re pretty popular with the female readers here. They’ve asked if you are currently single.

::looks embarrassed::

I am. I’m afraid my job doesn’t leave much time for dating.

Then when was your last relationship?

::quietly::

That was quite some time ago.

Ok, moving on then…if you were on a deserted island, what three things would you need to survive?

Knife, flint and…

::big grin:: …a SAT phone. That’s not cheating, is it? A man can live on only so much roasted snake and coconut.

That actually sounds potentially tasty. Like coconut shrimp.

Just chewier.

Speaking of food, it’s your last meal. What do you request?

Last meal? That’s a bit morbid, isn’t it?

Not my question. Take it up with the reader.

Okay. Let’s see. Well, I’d want to drag it out as long as possible, so…roasted marrow for a starter, then for the soup course a good old fashioned Borscht. Follow that up with a gorgeous lemon risotto. A salad, just to fill the time, of course. Then a mid-rare filet, with grilled artichokes, and a chocolate soufflé for dessert.

And while I’m waiting on the soufflé, I’ll have figured out how to get out of this last meal situation and end the evening with some proper Indian takeaway.

You’d still have room for takeaway?

Assuming I just burned off my other last meal getting away, yeah. There’s always room for a good curry.

Well, thanks to you, I’m now craving some Tikka Masala and I’ve barely had breakfast.

You should probably get going, then.

Yeah, I probably should.

Thank you for having me.

Thank you for being had.

Did you have a question for Eli that didn’t get asked? Be sure to let me know and I’ll ask him next time he comes by. If he comes by again, that is.

Be sure to come back on Thursday for the next chapter in the Tell Me a Story series!

Welcome Idris and Kist!

Welcome the two newest members of our household!

On the right we have Kist, the oldest girl in a litter of four. Her name is Russian for “paintbrush”, because when I met her, her little tail looked like a paintbrush. (She had a rather rough birth in which she lost half of her tail.) She is a total cuddler, which I am very excited about. I love a cat who loves to take long naps in your lap.

On the left is Kist’ little sister, Idris. Idris gets her name from a Dr. Who character who once said, “Biting’s excellent! It’s like kissing. Only there’s a winner.” That pretty much sums up little Idris. Very playful. And vocal.

I’ll be spending my day watching them explore, reminding the dog that they aren’t his puppies, and saying “Gentle!” to the kid many times over.

Friday Inspiration – Do All the Things!

I’m not big on asking for things. Or for help.

Short of the times that I had car troubles in the middle of nowhere and found myself putting on my poor, hopeless girl voice to score a free tire or tow, I was always very determined to get it done myself.

Even after I got married, I had a habit of taking things on without asking for help. Simple things, like carrying the groceries up to our third floor apartment (in one trip, of course), or the more difficult, like coordinating 4 of the 5 moves we made since relocating to Florida.

Post child, I still am not inclined to ask for help. But I am slowly becoming more willing to accept it.

Why?

Before the little person came along, I could exhaust myself and collapse in a heap at the end of the day and it didn’t matter. But now, I need to be a fully functioning human being 24/7. What if the kid is up sick all night? Or if he needs extra attention during the day, pushing chores (or writing) off until later? Or someone scary breaks into the house in the middle of the night and I have to kick them in the face, grab the kid, and jump out a window? (Yes, those are the thoughts that go through my head every time I hear something at night.)

Knowing that someone else is relying on me allows me to begin to accept help from others. I won’t go so far as to say that it allows me to rely on others (I’m not good at that) but it is a step in the right direction.

Accepting help, even in small things, is not a weakness. It takes strength to believe that you are worth their time and effort. And it takes strength to relinquish control.

If you are anything like me, remember, there are probably people in your life that are more than happy to lighten your load from time to time. It doesn’t hurt to let them.

It may even free up some time to things you enjoy.