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Wednesday, January 31, 2007

God Hurts

Dare to say God or question what is sin and your temples begin to pound till you can't take the thunder in your brain. The pain is excruciating. Quick relief? Don't speak out His name, don't even think about Him.

The Nephilim Seed: A Novel that is fast paced with believable and loveable characters (except for the bad guys) and a plot so clever it will make you go . . . hmm. A little tampering with our DNA, a tad bit of cloning, and a chemical cocktail to alter your mind so one can become more Nephilim-like, and then there's this God-is-dead attitude that makes it all sound so present day.

The ending could have been more explosive but I'm such an actionholic. Nonetheless, the more I think about it, the conclusion of The Nephilim Seed is quite satisfying (brings peace back to the reader's mind) and most likely the only logical ending. So there it is.



TBR Book 2 Finished

Oh my! I've finished my 2nd book on the TBR (to be read) list for 2007, The Nephilim Seed by James Scott Bell. Here's the list again, just in case you were interested . . .

The Gatekeeper’s 2007 TBR Book List

1. Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl-FINISHED!
2. The Nephilim Seed: A Novel, James Scott Bell-FINISHED!
3. Out Of The Silent Planet, C.S. Lewis
4. Perelandra, C.S. Lewis
5. That Hideous Strength, C.S. Lewis
6. Eragon: Inheritance, Christoph Paolin
7. Eragon: Eldest, Christoph Paolin
8. Shadowmancer, G.P. Taylor
9. The Silver Chair, C.S. Lewis
10. Holes, Louis Sachar
11. The Magician’s Nephew, C.S. Lewis
12. The Horse And His Boy, C.S. Lewis


Extra Reads:
1. The Last Battle, C.S. Lewis
2. This Present Darkness, Frank E. Peretti
3. The Count Of Monte Cristo, Alexander Dumas
4. Lion Boy Trilogy, Zizou Corder
5. Left Behind, Jerry B. Jenkins
6. The Star Wars Trilogy, Cathy Tyre

Coming soon: Book review on The Nephilim Seed. It's one in the morning, I'm a little tired and might write things I don't mean.

Paying For College


We scraped as much as we could and our school girl even managed to land a few scholarships. But alas, it did not cover 100% of tuition, cost of living, computers, gas etc and etc. No, it seemed, a little more help was needed. Debt among students!!! Not fair. Nonetheless, how much will your child owe after graduation? We're not thinking that far now, are we? Is there relief? One certainly hopes so and since there's no rich King left in this kingdom to marry I'll investigate how Student Loan Consolidation can relief debt.

Yes, we must learn how to lower monthly payments, decrease student loan expenses with a fixed interest rate perhaps? With this student loan consolidation program we're in the know-how in taking advantage of tax-deductible interest rates. Get free advice and tips on how to get this all under control and maybe find a student loan professional in your area. Okay, I'm off to make that interest payment with no penalty. Seriously, get yourself educated about Studen Loan Consolidation.

Tuesday, January 30, 2007

For Family, Friends, And Whoever Is Still Interested

The sun is shining in San Jacinto with a nice cool . . . no wait . . . it's a cold brrrrrreeze. It's about 57 degrees Fahrenheit. For all you fine hobbits in Holland who are still thinking of sojourning this way yonder, that would be about 12 degrees Celsius. 'T is erg, erg warm. It's HOT!! Come on over. We're headed for Diamond Valley Lake. And for my Seattle dearhearts well . . . at least it's not raining and there is room at the DeQ Inn for one and all. Or we'll for sure see you this summer. Hopefully we'll bring the tour bus!!

Not to change the subject but we saw the trailer for CSI Miami and lo and behold Layne was in the trailer. He was still dead and you can't blink if you want to see him. I'm just preparing all our loved ones who might be watching the show next Monday at 10pm that he is still dead. A little disturbing, I know, but he walked off the set on his own power. Be careful, the photographs used in the show is him . . . dead. However, we've experienced this before, footage can always be cut. Doesn't bother him a bit, the kid got paid and the cast and crew loved him--so what's he got to feel bad about?

The Sarah update is secret. Mom's the word, so to speak, we don't want the information to fall into the wrong hands. You'll have to email her yourselves at . . . hahaha you didn't think I'd . . . Anyhow, she's not talking, for now. But she does have a new fridge and the registration for her vehicle has finally come in. Yes, the warrant has been taken care of (it's a long dark tale). She can now park without penalties. And her roomies/suitees are back from inter-term break. Adjusting to sharing things again is good for her. She's such a loner. Mmmm, wonder where she gets that from? I like my cave.

On the brother side of the family. Jos is hanging in there and spending most of his time building his business. One of his ventures is right here at Emmie's Place (ok, so he calls it Emmie's Store or One-Stop Depot). Everyone needs that emergency survival kit, so have at it.

See you all this summer for FreedomFest because where the Spirit of the Lord is there is Freedom!!!!! If you want to sponsor West Washington's largest music festival, let me know or let them know. You will get the "You Rock" status. What more would you want?


Monday, January 29, 2007

Just Exercising The Writing With My Sense of Smell

Exhaust fumes breathed through her hotel window. She rose with a cough and dragged herself out of lemon-scented blankets. The city's air was musty and an unfamiliar place to her. A few rooms away the office girls prepared the first batch of coffee. The aroma of coffee beans clashed with the putrid stench of garbage cans. A mixture of bleach and water, sprayed from the street cleaner, sharply ascended into a smoggy sky.

She woke her son, packed their bags and headed for the car.

Eventually the chemicals cleared out of their lungs as a fresh ocean breeze tickled their noses. The boy opened the window and inhaled. He never thought that the smell of salt water could be so invigorating.

The man in the parking lot booth reeked of cheap perfume and unwashed clothes. He gave the woman a free parking ticket and pointed in the direction for crew parking. The air was clean here.

Fried eggs and bacon sizzled as they approached the set of their new movie. She parked the car close by, but even then, the assigned driver pulled up behind them in a brand new van and ushered them inside. It had that sanitary-new-car interior odor that made one feel rich.

She and her son then downed some scrambled eggs with a hint of cheese and green onions. Freshly squeezed orange juice washed down the extra patties of sausages and steaming hash browns before the child was taken away for his close-up.

He was brave, really, at least he didn't complain when they told him he would have to enter the cold water. A whiff of salt stung his nostrils, but he smiled nonetheless. His co-star splashed him playfully. The boy, in turn, drenched her hair in sea water and scents of cucumber floated by.

Seagulls flew overhead disturbing his world. The smell of bacon, eggs and greasy sausages still clung to his skin, and were most likely what they hunted. He shooed them away and they flew to the odors of the nearest trash can.

At day's end, the woman wrapped a rosy towel around him. Fresh flowers, weaved through the towel's very essence, comforted his cold and aching bones. It was a good day's work, they all said so. He just smiled and walked closer to his mother; coconut suntan lotion on brown skin was familiar and strangely soothing.

Back at base camp, the child stopped to enjoy the warmth of the crackling fire in the caterer's barbecue pit. On top of burning coals and woodchips sizzled the tri-tip and rows of white corn.

When the sun finally ran its course, their bags were strewn in the back of their car. The boy reeked of salt, smoke and a mixture of fruit and barbecued meat. Someone carried him and gently placed his sleeping body onto the front seat, patted the sand of his feet and covered him with a sleeping bag.

The woman prepared for the two and half hour drive home to her countryside. She couldn't wait to leave the city and once again inhale clean air. Maybe the homemade apple pies already sat in the baker's window with warm cider on the wood-burning stoves. Hopefully the cows have all gone to sleep.

Talking Books


I find it interesting, indeed, that Americans might have a tad bit of a hard time understanding the Queen's english. Would we be a little confused perhaps if one was to ask us about hiring some Talking Books? I think we would. Don't fret, I've got the answer . . . for once. Anyone want to rent audio books? Well there you have it. SimplyAudioBooks in the UK works the same way as NetFlix does and you can hire/rent, buy or download the book of the month. So let's listen up to some of those wonderful Talking Books.

Are We Historians????

Well now, think about it. Do you think (we) bloggers are preserving our history? Will generations after us find our blogs on the internet, take notes, and use the information to find out what life was all about in the year 2000's (and before)? I've read quite a few blogs. And I'm thinking we are historians, or is there another word for us? Be nice now.

A World Of Information

Being a writer, and always looking for editing jobs, I used the keyword Proofreading and found this little tidbit of wisdom. The article is what one might expect from this online encyclopedia--precise and to the point. There's a "Society for Editors and Proofreaders" discussed, which is steadily growing as more and more writers realize their work needs to be polished and cleaned-up. Newcomers to proofreading might find this article helpful.

This site offers 1000's or more articles from perfume to a Boat Rental Charter. It's more or less an updated online encyclopedia, well-written, easy to navigate and you can find information on anything you can think of.

Friday, January 26, 2007

1942 Blog Update

If Mom Had A Blog In 1942, I now know that she would post about three times a day. The stories of her war-filled childhood are coming back in bigger chunks, finally. And I was able to get in touch with my cousins in Australia, (who knew they had email down under--JK) who will eventually get the stories from their mom, my mom's oldest sister.

Mom's kid brother, in Northern Cal., just sent me a little blurp of what he remembers and that will go on mom's blog soon enough when we actually get to the POW camp story. All I need is for my uncle in Holland to read his email and send me his side of the story.

So let me direct you to a worthy story that started in 1942 in a POW camp on the exotic island of Java. Mom has lots to share--and as tragic as it is, it's full of laughter, joy and hope.

The NFL Message Boards

Can't get enough of America's favorite sport? Well kick on over to the nfl message board and hang out with the ultimate fans. Oh yeah, I'm talking about you and me. This forum will keep you informed of everything NFL, and you can post updates of your favorite team. All divisions are represented well, you know, NFC, AFC etc and for a bonus there's a forum to keep you interested in college football: USC was robbed or burnt this year by UCLA for a chance at the National title--discuss. Anyhow, the nfl message board has something for all football fans including personal news of your favorite player or post your own. You know you have something to say about it.

All this to say again that if you just can't get enough of football come and join the chatter at the nfl message board and forums. Watch your step, the debates are roaring. Get your facts straight and say your peace, or rather, post your wisdom and join in the fun. The forum is easy to join. It's always great to hang out with people who understand you. That's my take on it and, btw, here's to Payton Manning and the colts to steel one from the Bears.

Thursday, January 25, 2007

The Nephilim Seed

Don't you just love those "off the wall" scriptures that just make you say . . . what? Ah, but there's always an explanation. I made a few discoveries today about the book, The Nephilim Seed. James Scott Bell and I used the same scripture for the basis of our novels. His, of course, is published, and mine well . . . hopefully soon. He's actually read my book proposal and said that my one-page synsopsis was classic and flawless. Hmmmmm, I say. So today I opened to the first page and saw his autograph. I forgot that he had put his John Hancock on that thing. In any case here's the scripture we both used:

There were giants in the earth in those days:
and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto
the daughters of men, and they bare children to them,

the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown.
(Genesis 6:4 NKJV)

Ah, yes, it's those pesky Nephilim, those dreaded sons of fallen angels, that polluted planet Earth with sin. Of course, we might have something to do with it all. But, hey, we've got to blame somebody, anybody but ourselves, right? There was, of course, Somebody who came to right all this wrong of Genesis but only a few believed J.C. actually fixed it. He did.

Nonetheless, I'm in the fourth chapter of Bell's novel and so far it packs a punch. I'll review this book as soon as I'm done.

Note: Click on the David and Goliath graphic and read about the "UFO Phenomenom and the Bible." Did I peak your interest?

The Beauty Within

So, I will admit that fashion is not something I think about very often. I am aware, however, that with a new job, one which will require some travelling and being in front of people, this might have to change soon enough. I am thrilled to have stumbled upon Belisi Fashions' blog and learn a little bit about this strange world of clothing.

What impressed me most of all about Being Belisi is that the first thing I read was; "What's beautiful to you?" Ah, now there's a loaded question. Is it inner beauty? A sunset perchance? Your child kissing your cheeck? My father loving my mother after breast cancer surgery? How would you answer this question. Peter Belisi is searching for your answer and he'll give $100 for the most beautifully written poem, or even comments and essays on what is true beauty.

Then, of course, take a look at his sense of style. I already love the clothes and the soft colors. My wardrobe is down to sweats, jeans and Ts. Time, I guess, to get into something new, cozy and stylish. You can take my word for it that Belisi might have the inside scoop on beauty but please take a look for yourselves. And remember, beauty definitely starts inside of you.

Wednesday, January 24, 2007

First Book Done

Well, I thought it was time I actually start reading the books I always said I would. Thus is the reason I've joined a list of wonderful and crazy readers at TBR (To Be Read), or something to the effect of that name, and accepted the challenge to read 12 books in 2007. Very proud to say that I got off to a roaring good start and have finished my book for January which was Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl.

It was advantageous to read this book since I'm writing my mom's WWII POW story from 1942. Does that make sense? Anne's last chapters broke my heart and I had to cry for a few minutes. I'm just beginning to realize what my parents went through and I certainly have a deeper respect for them both.

Here's my 2007 TBR List:

1. Anne Frank: Diary Of A Young Girl (Finished 1/23/07)
2. Nephilim Seed, James Scott Bell (Finished 1/30/07)
3. Out Of The Silent Planet, C.S. Lewis(Finished 3/27/07)
4. Perelandra, C.S. Lewis (Finished 4/30/07)
5. That Hideous Strength, C.S. Lewis
6. Eragon: Inheritance, Christoph Paolin
7. Eragon: Eldest, Christoph Paolin
8. Shadowmancer, G.P. Taylor
9. The Silver Chair, C.S. Lewis
10. Holes, Louis Sachar
11. The Magician’s Nephew, C.S. Lewis
12. The Horse And His Boy, C.S. Lewis


Extra Reads:
1. The Last Battle, C.S. Lewis
2. This Present Darkness, Frank E. Peretti
3. The Count Of Monte Cristo, Alexander Dumas
4. Lion Boy Trilogy, Zizou Corder
5. Left Behind, Jerry B. Jenkins
6. The Star Wars Trilogy, Cathy Tyre

Through Bushnell Binoculars


Biggest football game of the season coming soon and if you're going (lucky you) you'll need the best equipment for the eyes. Eagle Optics is where we found the best place to buy bushnell binoculars. They have great low prices (always good to hear) and they pride themselves on outstanding customer service. Eagle Optics' most excellent selection will keep you shopping there just in case you need more than one, of course.

Above all else, Bushnell binoculars has 50 years of lens crafting experience and use the very latest optical technology. Well, if football's not your game you might need Bushnell Binoculars for some quiet hours of bird watching. Ah, now there's a sport. In any case, check them out and get yourself free financing on orders over $200.


Monday, January 22, 2007

Little Bro's Survival Kit


No really, little brother is stocking the family store, Emmie's One Stop Depot, with all the necessities of life. We would be honored, indeed, if you all came for a visit? One can only hope you do. If you order something I'll send you a FREE copy of our family cookbook, Come and Dine, if you like. At least take a look. That's Layne flying again.



Here's my pick of the week item. It's the awesome survival kit. Layne might have to pick one up from Uncle Josh soon. Anyhow click on the pretty red back pack and see all the amazing stuff it carries for all your emergency needs. Thanks.

You really need to check this back pack out. You won't believe what's inside. Go ahead, I know you want to.




Back To The Garden

It's never a bad time to go to the Hawaian islands--any island would do, of course. Trust me, the Gatekeeper would plant herself on any spot that was available out there near the crystal blue waters. Where would you like to rest your weary feet? On a secluded black beach, perhaps? You look like the hammock between two palm trees kind of person to me. No worry, there's room for us all.

Personally, I would look into a few kauai vacation rentals and visit the island where the greenest gardens on planet Earth grows. Can't you see yourself bathing in the warm pools of cascading waterfalls? I know you can. Stop by the side of a less-travelled road and pick some fresh guava. That's what we did on, what I recall, our best Kauai vacation ever. Maybe we'll see you there.

Sunday, January 21, 2007

Email Comments For Scrolls Of The Gatekeeper

Just thought I'd publish a few emails I got for Scrolls of The Gatekeeper: It's A Hellish Tale.


Wow! That's one hellish fantasy, all right! Whew! I don't ever want to go there. Like the writing, though, and your website is great. Looking forward to the next amazingly creepy installment! :)

The WORD for 2007 is PEACE.
"...The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Phil. 4:7


********

Very imaginative--I could never come up with such characters or plot. It certainly captures interest.

Re Part I: I don't really have any suggestions for changes, even grammatical ones. The only thing I noticed is that in the paragraph seventh from the end, there is a line where you meant to type "laughter" but it is misspelled "laugher."


OK, one more thing. Two paragraphs above this, the Dark Lord is filling the flask with the burning lake fluid. To me, "snares" doesn't seem like the right verb to describe capturing fluid in a flask. "Snares" sounds more like the kind of action (literal or figurative) that is done with a lasso, or a fishing line, or perhaps a net. Even given that he's using a flask, it sounds odd to me to "snare" fluid (burning or not). Hmm.... See what anyone else says.

Will magazines take excerpts like this, as interesting character studies, even if there isn't a full plot scene included? Hope you can attract more interest in your book.


Re Part II: The only suggestion I have is that at the end of the second paragraph, where it says "... waste no time to exploit his new powers," I would make it "... waste no time exploiting...." Very well done! I left a comment on this one.


Just so you know, I asked for people to edit my work. It only makes it better. So I've done the corrections. If you like to read the edited version here's the link to Scrolls Of The Gatekeeper: It's A Hellish Tale.

The City of Half


I'll tell you a story and I might get it straight too. But, did you hear about this guy who renamed Halfway, Oregon to, get this, Half.com, Oregon. And what would that take these days? Well, I'll admit to not knowing the answer to that. However, the scoop is that he wrote a book about how he did it. You'll just have to read the book or you can come hear this marketing speaker for yourself. Rumor has it he's on the professional speaker circuit now.

Dead On CSI Miami

Wake-up time was 4:00am--this was last Thursday. Surprisingly enough, the world is awake and on the road. Who works at that time of the day? It was hauntingly dark on the express way, very misty. We made it to Raleigh Studios in Manhattan beach by 6:00am. That would make it a frightfully fast trip!! Layne slept all the way there.

We managed to find the CSI Miami set--stage 24 by the back gate, but only after I caused a slight traffic jam at the front gate. Who knew I had to get into lane 1 to sign in. Oh, never mind.

Here's the highlight of our day, and there were many, we sign in with the AD (we always forget the real title) who says, "Oh, hi Layne, hold on I'll walk you to your dressing room."

What!!!! He gets his own dressing room?? He did. We just had to laugh. He got his own bathroom with shower, a TV, a microwave and a walk-in closet. Both of us didn't say a word but we honestly thought she got it wrong. As it turns out Layne, indeed, got his own dressing room and his own teacher as well.

Food was brought to him all day, he had two assistants standing around making sure he was warm, had enough water, checked his makeup etc. He was a little dumbfounded. Although this is our least favorite CSI it has become our favorite to work on.

So he had a small part and yes . . . he was dead! It's quite a shock to see your child that way, even if he was acting. I read the script, it's gonna be a tear jerker. The title is "No Mom's Land" airing in a couple of weeks.

I tried to take pictures of Layne but he kept smiling. Here's the best I got. Mind you I'm not sure if I should post this, but then again, it's another Piece Of Me. And btw, at the end of the day Layne was thanked for a great job and everyone looked forward to working with him again. It wasn't so much a compliment about his acting (which he does well) as it was about his behaviour and attitude. I'm blessed with a well-behaved and well-mannered teenager. Why doesn't he act like that at home?

And . . . just in case you actually read this far---it was my birthday Friday, the 19th. I had a great day. I worked. That's a good thing. It's official, I'm a Writers' Conference Speaker's Assistant. I think.

Friday, January 19, 2007

It's My Birthday


Yes, it's true I'm ????? years old today. Lookin' good, don't you think???? I would sing but my teeth hurt and well . . . you know!!! I'm extremely happy though, and greatful. Many blessings in my life and am looking forward to a wonderful year. Happy birthday to me!!









New From Motorola UK

Here's the latest update, for all you wonderful people of Great Britain or the UK, from the "mobile" phone people we have come to love and know, Motorola. We know them well here in the US too.

But here's the deal for UK folks, it's the new Motorola K1 and let's explore the dynamic features, shall we? Very sleek (42 x 103 x 16) and very slick, with a reflective Glass front and a soft touch rear finish. Sounds fascinating. Dreamy colors: cosmic blue, silver quartz and black. Apparently one can individualize this KRZR K1 and the Z3. Now I'm mostly impressed by the Bluetooth since I still don't have one and this Bluetooth is in stereo. Nice.

Something for the kids perhaps (though no one is ever too old to listen to music) is the integrated mp3 player. Can't go wrong with that. Check it out for yourself and have fun!

This is a paid advertisement for Motorola UK, btw, and I'm greatful for the opportunity.

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

The Little Shop That Emmie Built

The Gatekeeper's family is spreading their wings. Yes the family business has finally opened the double doors--well, little brother's doors, really. Nonetheless, I shall eagerly do my part with due honor.

After all, though working from home has its worries, it has its rewards. Like, he can now drive the kids to school, pick the kids up from school, drive to water polo practise, water polo games and invitationals (half way across the state). . . ah, the life!!! He's loving it.

Could you do me a favor? Come take a look at Emmie's Place won't you? I mean, take a LOOK at these natural home-made soaps, for starters. There's talks little brother will soon join the land of bloggers. A nice community indeed. Here's to a clean start.



Black Licorice Soap!!!




Cedarwood and Rosehip Soap!!!


EmoPoetry


A few words here, and it flows to the next, where the lines and words pulse together. It's fascinating really, when emotions are freed and unafraid to show what is truly felt. But wait, what is it Emo feels--sadness or peace perhaps? It's poetry you know, or is it simply words and rhythm, rhythm and words, but it isn't formal, this we know.

Emopoetry: moments when happiness can jump of the paper and slide next to you. Dare to travel to a time and space? Myspace that is, where not everything is literal and, to no one's surprise, not everything is factual. This fits the mold, though only sometimes, as you can see emopoetry is hard to explain and forever difficult to classify. But it will bring you to a higher place because it is your heart that reads.

It's crazy they say--a little like life I would imagine. Ah, one could sayEmopoetry is based on personal emotions not experiences like most poetry. Emopoetry is not poetry it is Emopoetry.

Flyin' High







Well, it's always fun to see your children fly! But only when they land on two feet. So far so good.

Words To Remember

Everyone needs a little help learning vocabulary words, right? Here's an innovative approach. The good people at SAT Vocabulary have established this; anyone can remember even the hardest words by establishing a link between the word and definition through easy to remember stories.

Additionally, SAT Vocabulary (in their own words) contains a comprehensive database of useful standardized test words with definitions and other test preparation resources. Their site also has test preparation tips, studying tips, and college & test preparation books.


Take a look, it's not just for students, it can benefit people of all ages.

Saturday, January 13, 2007

Scrolls Of The Gatekeeper (Part I) It's A Hellish Fantasy

The Whisperer:

The Moribund River, in the cursed land of Perdition, boils with fire. It breathes mud-like pockets of ashes and bones. On its west bank a vile creature named Pernicious crawls to its edges. His exaggerated eagle claws scratch the surface of Perdition’s thirsty terrain. He drags his broken skeletal body closer to the flames of Moribund.

The fiery river, he believes, will heal him. But he fears its power and does not touch. He can only wait for help and hope he is worth something to someone in this desolate land.

“Whisperer!” a voice thunders. “Come here!”

Pernicious mumbles and ignores the hollering of the one they call Abaddon. “Son of Anak,” the Whisperer screeches, “leave me be!”

Heat and dry dust burns in their throats. Ashes fall like snow. Both beings are irritated but wait for the magic of Moribund’s fire. Will it bring them life, such as it is, or claim it?

“How could you lose to the Canaanite, a mere human?” Pernicious scoffs. His voice is more raspy than usual. “You are twice his size with the strength of ten men.” He starts to mock his superior but thinks better of it. His taunt is a measly whisper. “Abaddon, mighty leader of the Nephilim, indeed.” Pernicious raises his bony jaw in defiance. The ground shakes and billows of smoke rise through the fractures of the land. “I was once mightier than the likes of you ―stronger, swifter, and prettier, I might add, a better warrior than you, by far. I was . . . long ago.”

The Whisperer chooses silence for a second or two, haunted by the memories of the perfect being he used to be. Jealousy, an annoying weakness of his, is the reason why he is now counted among the fallen.

How did I get this way? Why was I jealous of that Warrior, Paladin? I was already better than he, superior to say the least. His scorpion tail, coiled between the hanging skins of his hind legs, rattles and drips with poison. “You!” He points his decrepit claws to the leader of the Nephilim who is coughing and sputtering as the reddish mists of dust and air infiltrate his lungs. “You and your kind brought me down!”

Abaddon:

Abaddon, for the most part, keeps quiet. No doubt, he hopes that the future is grim for the Whisperer. Nevertheless, he and Pernicious both lie dying on the scorched land.

He is the General of the Nephilim (offspring of fallen angels) but he cannot remember a time such as this when he had cared about discomfort. The sharp pain in his head is beyond what he wants to bear. He squints and repeatedly bangs the back of his head on the parched ground. His pitch black eyes close, caving into the hollow of his sockets. Shortness of breath is his clue that life is fading. Like Pernicious, he waits.

Help finally comes when the Dark Lord of the South River (the part of the river which runs closest to Lake Torment at the end of the Moribund) appears from the miserable wastes of Perdition. Light from Perdition’s gushing fires reflect on his chain mail shirt. A hooded cape, mostly torn, grey and stained with blood, flutters around him.

“Lord of the South,” Abaddon moans, “Keeper of the fire. Heal me.”

Lord of the South River:

The Dark Lord uses a small oval flask of ocher glass to capture the blazing flames of the Moribund’s southern regions. His hands are riddled with burn marks. Strange to say, but there is a tree that thrives in the land of Perdition ― one small tree near the edge of Lake Torment.

No one there knows how it grows or why. Its leaves never wither though it takes the full brunt of the fire. Surprisingly, it bears fruit similar to an apple ― some bright red, some a cool green, and others as gold as the sun. Nevertheless, when the fruit is plucked from the branches, it shrivels and rots in one’s hand. The unattainable harvest is sheer torture to the Whisperers, and especially the Nephilim whose hunger is everlasting.

The Dark Lord stands in the shadow of this tree. He plunges his sword into the depths of the roots and, as the fire of the lake passes through the cut, he skillfully snares it in his soot-blemished flask. Not a word must leave his lips as he carries out the task before him.

This flask he now opens over Abaddon’s body and lets the fire drip like lava onto his lesions. Abaddon screams. His anguish is heard throughout the land. But in Perdition his cries will be ignored as his flesh sizzles and melts together. A putrid smell hangs like a heavy cloud that refuses to dissipate.

The Dark Lord chants a daunting song. He sees Pernicious cower closer to the banks of the Moribund River. “Hoping to receive but a drop, are we?” Laughter bellows from deep inside the slender body of the Dark Lord.

The Whisperer looks away as the Dark Lord takes his sword, dripping with fire, and violently thrusts it through the giant head of Abaddon. When he takes it out, three small stones are on the blade. The chant continues.

“Canaanite!” Abaddon hollers.

The Dark Lord’s song is over. He smiles. His delight is wicked. “Taken down with a sling and a shot, I see ― three precise shots.”

Abaddon is not amused.

“Give me the fire also,” Pernicious grunts. “Just one drop.”

“Pathetic shell of a demon,” the Dark Lord grumbles. “What is your life worth to anyone?” He pours more of the liquid fire, until near empty, on the remainder of Abaddon’s wounds. Then he meanders toward the Whisperer and tosses the ocher glass Pernicious’ way.


To Be Continued (LOL) on the next post
after a word from our Sponsor. (Hey, a girl has got to make a living, what say ye?)



Stupid Deals

As usual, we aim to find the really good deals online and sometimes we come across the amazing you-just-can't-miss deal of the day. That's what the point is at DayOfTheDeal.com where you can have you crumbs and eat them too, or something like that. They have clearance items, coupons and a newsletter to let you know when they've added more deals.

The "stupid" deal today would be a comfortable and adjustable Deluxe Keyboard bench for, what they say is, chump change--$14.99 is the going price. That is a deal since it used to be $49.99. There's lots of stores to choose from so take a look at DayOfTheDeal.com for yourself. Have fun.

Scrolls Of The Gatekeeper (Part II)


The Unholy Union:

Pernicious licks each precious drop and lets them slowly progress through his body. He bathes in the healing of Abaddon’s leftovers. A feeble attempt to stand brings him down to his four spiny claws. His body shudders as his bones reconnect. Abaddon helps him, mysteriously tied in an unholy friendship with the lowly creature. They will not admit it, but both will need the other to battle the armies of man.

The Whisperer and the nine-foot Abaddon are standing side by side like father and son. The fire stirs hot and angry within them. Never before has either felt pure evil in this form ― life created for the sake of wickedness. It is eternal. Abaddon (known in Canaan as The Destroyer) is healed and wastes no time exploiting his new powers.

The Whisperer glares at the Dark Lord of the South River with nothing but contempt. The Dark Lord cracks his ancient bones of his neck as he circles Pernicious. “I had no desire to see you healed,” he says.

“Be careful, my lord, I am a Whisperer after all. You do not know the depth and width of my powers. Can you make the Canaanite hear what is not spoken or see what is not there? Can you sway him to turn from his righteous ways and give up his place in the heavens? No, my lord, you cannot.”

Abaddon will not stomach the ranting of the Whisperer and demands an end to his chatter. “Lord of the South River, go your way,” he snaps. “We are done with your services.”

The Dark Lord bows slowly and takes his leave. He is gone before the Whisperer has a chance to speak again.

Abaddon begins to pound his stony feet on the waterless grounds of Perdition, walks to the spot where the Dark Lord had healed him and spits. Pernicious slithers next to Abaddon. The Destroyer, having one more purpose for Pernicious, picks him up and propels him carelessly upon his back.

“Bring me the Canaanite,” he orders. He glares at Pernicious with his haunting eyes. “Without him, Canaan will fall to us. I will give you an army of Whisperers.”

“And I will be their leader?” Pernicious snivels with glee.

“As sure as I am the leader of the Nephilim.”

“Then I will bring you the Canaanite,” Pernicious whispers. “But Canaan and all its treasures will belong to me alone.”

“Let it be so,” Abaddon says.

They walk through the valleys of shadows and death till they reach the mouth of Perdition’s gate to enter the realm of man.

Supporting Me

A while back I was lucky enough to stumble upon PayPerPost. I had actually signed up for the program but never took advantage of it. For one reason or another I thought I wasn't capable of writing the ads they had posted. You might say I was a little initimidated.

Not to mention that the promise of how to make money at home had such a "scam" element to it. I was wrong, thank the Lord. And slowly, but very surely, I have been able to fatten up my PayPal account. So far I've accumulated over $200, and paychecks are still flowing in, writing a couple of posts per day. Plus, mind you, if I'm a little more shrewd and on the ball, so to speak, I would be able to take the higher paying jobs. For all those lucky bloggers who have a page rank higher than 6, the money is theirs for the taking--and so it should. I'm working to get that higher PR but that's not always an easy accomlishment.

In the meantime, I've been able to keep homeschooling my son while, little by little, I am able to make money at home. I've actually stayed ahead of my bills with this money and today we're going to the outlet stores in Cabazon and buy some new shoes and clothes. More than anything though this extra cash has just given me a little room to breathe and a confidence that I can support myself.

Friday, January 12, 2007

California Breeze

Well . . . I've been trying to entice the distinguished authors of my writers group to come join the blogoshpere. Alas, it has been a fruitless journey. Even an ode to their accomplishments (over there at Associated Content) has left me alone in blog land. But, hark, wait, it's true . . . Sharon Lynne has finally succumbed. She's brand new and a little shy, maybe I could help her find her home in Blog Village or something. The neighbors are wonderful over there.

So here's Sharon's blog . . . she's talks about writing, biking and parenting. She's living over at California Breeze.

The Oodle Engine


Travel this path if seeking a job, an apartment perhaps, or anything personal. You can't pass up anything with a name like Oodle, can you? It's a search engine that will help you find your next job perhaps. Or might there be a slight chance that the Oodle Classifieds could locate some prime real estate for you, or tickets to the Super Bowl, hello!! Well, maybe, but if you just have to have that cute little pet or the car "of your dreams" than follow the link to Oodle Classifieds. There's so much more, check it out for yourself.

BRRRRR From Sunny Southern Cal

This is insanely fun. IT'S SNOWING in Southern California. We're not in the mountains . . . not quite anyhow. This is desert. I need to educate myself. Silly me, when we moved here last February I thought it would be hot (Desert, duh.). Well, it's 37 degrees and a little chilly. FUN!!

As Big As Life

You've got the key to the conference room. You leave your briefcase on the chair, the one not close to the screen, take a sip of warm coffee and look at the breathtaking skyline out your office window.

Your secretary quietly sits at the table and waits for the scheduled meeting with your perspective and existing clients. Video Conferencing has made life easier for the small to medium size business. Most impressive, you think, that High definition video communications from LifeSize® . It was a good investment. The meeting begins. Human interaction across distances is brought to an entirely new level. LifeSize promised you would see everything vividly, hear everyone clearly and enjoy every moment flawlessly!

Business is good and they assure you it's the best price-to-performance value available on the market. What more could you want?

Thursday, January 11, 2007

AC Article

I have the most wonderful writers group. How's yours? Well, I thought mine was worthy to write about. And wouldn't you know AC thought so too and paid me. If you'd like to send your articles to them just click on the AC banner on my side bar. Thanks. Here's the link to my article titled, How to Have a Successful Writing Group.





Blogging Up


Okay, I'll have to say, just the facts! And here they are: Make money fast with your videos, audios & photos! Upblogger doesn't hide anything. They would like to let you know that you can make money by uploading your media files. You must have; your own videos, audio and photographs. Sounds like there's a little bit of work involved but you should make a few dollars here and there. Here's those facts:

$5 for every 1000 video views!
$5 for every 1000 audio reproduction!
$3 for every 5000 photo views!

You'll, of course, need to 1) Create an upblogger.com account. 2) Upload and activate your uploaded media files. 3) Recommend & share your uploaded media to all your friends!

Their promise--You will start making money IMMEDIATELY!!! It's worth a try.

Under Construction

So many projects in life right now. Can't complain. I figured if I can get ten people to click ten times per day on my ads I would make a decent penny. Is that cheating? Ok, then, never mind.

I'm gathering photographs, newspaper articles about WWII for Mom's story. I'm receiving amazing help from random bloggies. How sweet is that? I would mention you in the book (if published or should I say, when published) if you could help out in any way. If you lived in Soerabaja around 1942 I'd love to interview you.

I found Mom's passport which I'll put in the book when we get to the "Escaping Indonesia" part. They had to escape for a couple of reasons: 1) Civil War and 2) Her mom witnessed a murder!







Creating The Web


Search here for articles on making the real money online. We all need a little bit of wisdom to avoid the scams and learn about the genuine deals. Allcreatives has tons of information for you as well as informative tidbits written by the webmaster himself and staff. In his own words Allcreatives "is intended to educate, inspire and entertain the online web entrepreneur in all of us."

Anyone can read Allcreatives and its quality contents. It is, however, geared mostly towards Web Publishers, those wishing to pursue a full time living for web site creation and publishing. Go take a look.

Wednesday, January 10, 2007

The WWII Piece Of Me



Blogging has been a very helpful, useful and friendly tool for me to gather my research (and thoughts) together. As I'm trying to interview both Mom and Dad to get those WWII stories out I've gotten quite a lot of support from my blogging pals. You are a blessing, indeed.

I've moved mom to her own blog called If Mom Had A Blog In 1942. The posts are almost written while she's speaking to me. Like I've said before, the dates are a little fuzzy but as I do more research I see that she's correct most of the time--dates like when the invasion happened and so forth.

Eventually I will send quiry letters out to publishers to have this story of faith, courage and hope available to the public. That is my prayer. In the meantime I would just like to get it published on LuLu so that our family will not forget where we came from. Thanks for stopping by.

15,000 Years Of Fame

Let's have some fun and get our 15 minutes of fame--or as they promise at ZOOOF, The Family Network, your 15,000 years of fame. Here's the scoop.

It's that "six degrees of separation" theory that everyone is so fascinated with, but ZOOOF, however, is fascinated by the real degrees. How are we really connected by family ties both in the past and present? One can invite family members to build an interactive flash family tree. Watching it grow can be very rewarding. There are modules so all family members can share stories, pictures and who knows, a few family secrets. ZOOOF is interested in uniting all family members around the world. Something I've been trying to do for years.

Log your personal history and get your 15,000 years of fame. Here's the latests news at ZOOOF. They are still in the beta stage with users in about 49 countries. February 14th is the end of that stage and then the site will be open for everybody FREE. You can sign up now by emailing invite@zooof.com to receive your personal invitation link. Have fun and get famous, so to speak.


Speaking of Family


What do cousins do between flights? Spend some time with us at LAX, of course. Well, we drove them away to enjoy the downtown cuisine of El Pollo Loco and Foster's Freeze. It's always fun to connect with family,even if only for a few hours. We were kinda' hopin' they would sneak us off to Hawaii with them.

It's Your Business


Family, business, saving money and hoping for success in all you do. Indeed, that would be your goal, would it not? Then, my friends, get those phone lines working for you and bring your office to any location. Here's the buzz from Award Winning Hosted PBX--you've heard, right? Listen here at the VoiceNEXT Hosted PBX Demo. It's the phone system you might want to check out for all your business necessities.

Inovative features include having your office phone, your home office phone and your cell phone ring at the same time. Plus, apparently one can save up to 80% more over the cost of a typical "big company" phone system. Furthermore, savings of up to 50% every month on your telecom charges. Sounds like a plan, or slightly interested? Like I said, go check out their flash demo to see and hear for yourself.

VoiceNext will manage your voice communications and you can work from any location. Plus they'll handle your conferencing needs. Check it out.

Monday, January 08, 2007

If Mom Had A Blog In 1942


These are the first stories my mom can remember as we try to put the pieces of her life all in order. Information of dates, times and places are still sketchy but I can feel it come together. She does want to make it clear that she harbors no anger against the Japanese or the Indonesian people. I might still place these bits of information on her own blog. Here's her earliest memories . . .


War Hits Home:

Japanese soldiers came today. They took my father and grandfather away. Mom won’t tell us where they’ve been taken, only that we will see them again. She’s a good Christian woman but today she told a lie—maybe even two. I don’t think we’ll see Pappa and Grandpa again, for one, and she also said that my older brother was only ten years old. He’s really twelve. Though I do think that God will forgive her because that lie allowed us to keep our brother home, it was still a lie. I don’t like what this war has done to all of us.

The Japanese soldier in charged said that we were not to leave our house. If we did they had the right to shoot us. I’m not quite sure who gave them that right but I believe they will shoot us and without one feeling of guilt. So we are under house arrest, I think that’s what adults call it.

Most of the Dutch soldiers left before the Japanese soldiers came to Soerabaja. We could have used their help. Some of them stayed. Unfortunately most of them were captured and killed. I don’t understand all this killing. What is it we have done to make them so mad?

I learned in Sunday school that we are to love our enemies. This is hard to do for me, but I know I must try. Furthermore, it seems that if we are to get back to Sunday school we will have to break the new law—all Indonesian people must stay inside their homes. Like most kids, I thought it would be exciting to be known as a criminal, but it really isn’t fun at all. Let me explain.

A few days locked up in our house was enough to drive a normal person a little crazy, especially when you have to share everything with your sister and brothers. Mom announced that this was the night we were going to leave the house for a few hours. “We’re going to church,” she said.

We were very happy, indeed, but we were ill prepared for what was coming.



The Trading Post

Trading: an old profession, indeed. Most desired would be some wisdom and skill about monetary things. Both of which, I dare say, the Gatekeeper lacks just a tad bit. But I was directed today to one who seemed to have wisdom, skill, class and, mind you, a little bit of adventure. Most attractive.

One can follow the journey of this trader at his Stock Market Blog, which offers not only his thoughts but his path towards $1,000,000. He has already doubled (well, almost) the amount he started with.

Now, anyone who mentions my beloved SeaHawks in a good light deserves my attention. At first thought one might thing that a Stock Market Blog would not be so interesting. Not the case here. This blog will surely perk your interest, it is rather fun to read, as you are wisely pointed and drawn into the traders' world through, yes of course, this young trader's wisdom, skill and his wit of making it all fun. Take a gander, won't you?



Saturday, January 06, 2007

The South Paz Gang

Our writers group has met, once a month, for close to 20 years now. Our success is revealed in an article written at Associated Content by . . . oh, that would be me. They're still processing payment so I'll have a link up in a few days, I hope. In the meantime we invite you to be a fly on the wall and listen to the happenings of the South Paz Gang. They'll probably make me change the name.


Happy New Year Critique Minutes

As the sun came up, whirling winds blew across the foothills.
The San Gabriel mountains stood like dark giants against the crystal blue sky.
Not far away, a home nestled among the trees, clung to the earth.
There was light inside. So much, that it overflowed the windows and invaded the morning shadows—as five writers struggled toward Jane’s front door—heads to the wind.

Present (In order of appearance)

Jane Rumph
Pat Stockett Johnston
Sharon P.
Ruth
Marilyn R. Woody
Sharon AUTHORIZE ME Norris Elliott

Absent

Everybody else

Happy New Year Everyone! The meeting started off with a lot of chit chat and most of us trying to straighten our wind-blown hair. We opened the meeting in prayer. A few minutes later the front door whipped open and low and behold it was Sharon E. in a thick coat and scarf along with a stack of manuscripts (more on that later) and a power book. Hello Sharon! After greetings all around, we proceeded to the first order of the day. The topic of editing.

Pat is taking an on-line writing class with Cecil B. Murphy. She brought her edited manuscripts. We learned a lot from perusing through the edits. Sharon E. then opened her power book and showed us how to edit manuscripts using Word. It’s simple! Just bring up a word document. Then, just click on view and pull down the menu. Choose/highlight toolbars and you will see another menu. Then choose/highlight the word reviewing. Next, look at the top of your screen. You will see some new icons that you’ve never seen before. Click on them and see what they do. Practice makes perfect!

Next, Pat left early to get a new head shot picture taken. (“I have new glasses now!”) and Sharon E. distributed “Chapter Two” for our editing enjoyment. (2 hours of enjoyment) As we edited “Chapter Two” we discovered what the Bible means when it talks about the “Armor of God”. Sharon E. tells us that this armor can fit the female shape! Sharon’s chapter also brought up discussions on the difference between religious tolerance vs. acceptance, racial prejudices, and how to fit into your bra better.

Marilyn is almost ready to embark on Arleta’s manuscripts. She also shared that she is going to be a great-grandmother! This lead to a discussion on how old everyone was. Now that was a golden moment that I doubt will be repeated for awhile! (If you weren’t there, you’ll have to continue to guess.)

Ruth brought calendars for everyone and quietly gave her usual insightful comments. Jane was an excellent host. Sharon P. was glad to be out of the house.

Happy New Year Everyone!

Written by Sharon P.



Thursday, January 04, 2007

Communication Overload

Still looking for a wireless plan? Which company suits your lifestyle best? I dare say it's a wireless mess out there. Ah, yes, life was simpler when Bell ruled the world. One phone per family, one company to choose. Not so much these days. Nonetheless, your worries for cell phone selection might have an end after all.

At WireFly, the web's largest authorized dealer for every U.S. cell phone company, one could easily do company comparisons. Information on different phones and plan providers are all there for you to read about in one place. No more shopping around. It's quite convenient and very trustworthy I hear. WireFly can, apparently, find resources to lower your wireless bills. Some of the cell phone companies included are T-Mobile, Verizon Wireless, Cingular, Sprint, and even Disney Mobile.

Wirless communication needed? Come to Wirefly. They offer better prices than the carriers themselves, they have free shipping and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. I hear that.



Wednesday, January 03, 2007

A Little Bit of That and a Little Bit of This Post

Of course I didn't mean to write so many ads but what's a single mom to do. The extra cash is very appreciated and is a good exercise in writing. I wouldn't mind if you decide to join PPP through me, I won't lie, they pay me a pretty penny for you to do so. No begging, just a little help would be nice.


And then there's this place for writers. It's a good paying job. Make sure your articles are well written, they even give you topics to write about. Editing would be your best friend and it pays off. Come and write with me here.
Join Associated Content



The Layne update: We turned down an audition for the show, Numbers, today because Layne wasn't sure he could pass the BMX biking skills. I think he could have, but no need to push. I'm sure the Lord will tell us which part to take. No hurry.

The Sarah update: Little brother thinks she's nuts for taking a class when she doesn't have to. It's the difference between a 2 week break and a 6 week vacation. Nonetheless she's back at Biola taking a Literature to Film Class. Of all things she has to read the whole Harry Potter series and watch the movies. She also has to read essays by C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien now in my possession.

"But seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." (Matthew 6:33 NIV)


 
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