tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25968545563818074142024-02-20T12:46:00.259-08:00Jennifer's Thought Blockpotterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-13089149827966590452016-02-19T02:45:00.003-08:002016-02-19T02:45:13.084-08:00Dragon Age's Inspiration<div style="color: #3d596d; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 25.5px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
For the last month and a half, I have been playing Dragon Age: Inquisition. It is pretty much the first video game that I've played all the way through in a long time. Years, maybe. The first time I played through the game was really a rush through the main story quests, with just enough side quests to level up and not die immediately. My Inquisitor (character) was a female elf, and like all Dragon Age games, there is the possibility for the main character to have a romance with one of the other characters, some playable and some not. My Inquisitor was swept away by Commander Cullen's fortitude and steadfast adorableness. It was a sweet, endearing romance that did not disappoint. However, there was a small part of me that, like many gamers embarking up a play through of Dragon Age, regretted being unable to romance the character Dorian.</div>
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Dorian was, by far, my favorite character in the game. The overly confident mage swept in like a storm, saving the members of the Inquisition without really asking for anything in return. He was attractive, dashing, and oozed a sexy confidence, but those weren't the only reasons that I wished multiple times that I had created my character a little differently.</div>
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I should premise by saying that Dorian is a character that 100% gay. And this fact isn't just an afterthought for the character. It is a major part of his personal story line. That is an aspect of the game that really stood out to me. All of the characters have some sort of internal struggle that makes them imperfect and easily relatable. You have a recovering drug addict, a girl with an overwhelming dislike of her own race, and a few characters pretending to be something that they are not in order to escape some previous hurt or misdeed. It shouldn't be surprising that they added a character struggling with their sexuality. Of course, in a game series that often dips its toes in the world of bisexual or homosexual characters, having a character struggling with this aspect over all others was a bit of a surprise.</div>
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It isn't long into the game that we find out just how deeply his sexuality has affected his life. We discover that homosexual relationships aren't unheard of in Teventer (where Dorian is from), but they are hidden and only allowed to take place behind closed doors. One is expected to tow the line and create the perfect heterosexual family unit. Dorian was unwilling to compromise on his deep desire to not only be with someone he loved, but be with the MAN of his dreams. The soul crushing moment of the game comes when we discover that Dorian's father planned to use magic to alter his mind. The Inquisitor can influence him to speak to his father, giving Dorian a chance to heal and forgive. There is obviously a strong battle between the love Dorian feels for his father and the heart breaking disappointment of the older man's desperate actions.</div>
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While it might not seem like a big deal to have a gay character in a game, especially one like Dragon Age, the writer in me is drawn to the way that the man is depicted. He is arrogant and has an over-the-top personality, obviously brought about by years of being forced to love himself when no one else seemed to be capable of it. He forces his way into the Inquisition so that he can do good for the world. He demands that he be allowed to fight alongside people that he knows will dislike him based simply on where he was born. He has been hurt and is scared to let anyone past the wall he has built around his heart. When the main character actually starts a relationship with him, the mind reading character Cole describes the deep pain inside of Dorian by saying, "Glittering to gloss a hidden hurt, unlearning not to hope for more. Stumbling steps where they wall used to be."</div>
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Even while the walls are crumbling down and the Inquisitor is winning Dorian over, there are still hurdles to get past. Dorian's pride will not allow him to ask for help. He doesn't want people viewing gifts from the Inquisitor as further proof of his "undo" influence. He tells the Inquisitor, "You have too many people asking you for everything under the sun. I won't be one of them." He doesn't want to take advantage of the Inquisitor, and asking for help would be seen as such, to him and everyone around him.</div>
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There is something deeply revealing to me about his character when I listen to what he says or the tone of voice when he says it. I suppose this is good voice acting, but it is also a sign of good writing. I enjoy reading a story that involves deeply faceted characters; characters that have a new layer to discover every time they are present in a scene. Dorian's perfect exterior, mixed with his emotional damage and pained outbursts have made me start writing again. Although he isn't the main character, and there are only a few main scenes given to us with Dorian's background and romance with the Inquisitor, I find myself writing damaged characters looking for hope for the future. I mean, who wouldn't want someone to look at them like this:</div>
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or this:</div>
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There is hope in this romance, a sudden realization that they have found something wonderful in a world that is practically crumbling apart around them.</div>
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And in the end, even distance couldn't keep them apart.</div>
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Who wouldn't want to write a romance like that?</div>
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(All pictures are screen captures from the game. They do not belong to me, although they have a very special place in my heart. They belong to Bioware, and I will gladly give them credit, as well as my money).</div>
potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-87255425775454106612016-01-17T15:28:00.002-08:002016-01-17T15:28:47.540-08:00Struggling to Write<div style="color: #3d596d; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 25.5px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
Once again I find that I am struggling to put words onto a page. For a writer, this is painful, even a little devastating. For a while, I haven't even been able to come up with ideas for projects to begin, nor have I been able to finish some of the projects that have been in limbo for a time. I know that I have talked about this writer's block on here before, and I thought that it was just writing overload from school. Maybe I just wrote so many stories for class that my mind needed to take a break. But here I am, long since graduated, and I haven't really written anything since. </div>
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I started reading again, although not near as much as I used to. This helped a little. It was a part of my life that I put aside when I was in school, and a part of me that I didn't realize I missed until I started again. While reading helped made me WANT to write again, and gave me a little boost, I still couldn't seem to get completely inspired. I found myself wondering, "What happened to me, that I can't do the one thing I loved so much? The one thing that drove me to be thousands in debt, just so I could learn a few more techniques and get a little more experience?" I sit sometimes just staring at the computer, thinking, "I really should write something, but I just don't know what." Inspiration had apparently died forever.</div>
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That brings me to the current time. For Christmas I got a PS4 from my mother. A little background information about me--I used to be an avid gamer. I loved role playing games like Final Fantasy, shooters like Gears of War, and hack and slash like Devil May Cry. The one thing these games (the ones I loved the most) had in common were their diverse and expanded story lines. Even Gears of War has an extensive world and story that drew me in. I stopped playing games, almost hated them really, because of my terrible, emotionally abusive ex. He was so into video games that to even suggest a different activity resulted in insults and ridicule. I stopped playing because he made me hate something I once loved. I decided that I was going to rediscover this love, because it used to make me so happy.</div>
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Thus, I started playing the game Dragon Age: Inquisition. I'd played the original game, loved it, and missed the second. I was determined to sit down and just enjoy the activity I had long avoided. And enjoy I did. I was (and still am) quite obsessed. I play for hours, losing myself in the story line, side quests, and characters. It's design is so beautiful and world so interesting that I find myself hooked. And there has been an unintended side effect. I have found myself inspired again! While I haven't completely started writing long pages of story, I have started jotting down ideas, such as whole paragraphs or dialogue that I need in the story. I am developing a few story ideas piece by piece, like a puzzle. This is the most excited I've been about writing and ideas in a few years. I didn't realize that maybe my inspiration was tied to more than just a love of reading. Maybe I need to rediscover all the little bits of myself that died a while back, breathe new air into them, and feed them so that they will grow. Maybe I have started to find my way back to being a writer again. </div>
potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-21940050043108081902015-12-12T21:56:00.000-08:002015-12-12T21:56:17.740-08:00Wizarding World and Orlando Studios<div style="color: #3d596d; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 25.5px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
Very soon I will be heading back to MY happiest place on Earth. This brings to mind the most fantastic event of my life. A few years ago, I was able to participate in one of the celebration events at Orlando Studios. This event was the 10 year anniversary of the first movie. Having the chance to celebrate up close and personal with other fans, as well as meet some of the actors was too great an opportunity to pass up.</div>
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We didn't know which actors would be attending the event. We knew about the Phelps twins. They always seem to go to Harry Potter events, and we fans love them for it.</div>
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We we arrived at the park for the first day,the congestion was intense. Especially directly in front of the joke shop. "The Today Show is interviewing a few of the actors" the people around me said. This was pretty exciting. I could actually see the twins standing by the shop, but I kept wondering if the most important actor (to me) would be a participant. Would Rupert Grint be there?</div>
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A whisper went through the crowd. Rupert was here, getting his photo taken at another location. Surely this was just a rumor. Then, the girl next to showed the surrounding fans a photo her friend had taken. It was a bit blurry, but it was definitely Rupert. He was here! Surely they'd interview him as well as the twins for the show.</div>
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Well, they did. We all stood around in a group while Kathy Lee and Hoda insulted the twins (by barely even interviewing them at all--they addressed this insult on their Twitters later that day), interviewed all of the other actors present (Rupert, Evanna, and Jason) , and insulted Harry Potter fans by making fun of the ones crazy enough to have HP tattoos.</div>
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The next event was a Autograph session. I was slightly disappointed in the people at my personal session, but I don't think any of the "major" actors were at any of these particular events.</div>
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The true highlight was producer David Heyman. He was charismatic, funny, and apparently amazed that I was 28 and looked as young as I did. He signed my photo "Great Genes!" (my mom also looks much younger than she is).</div>
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Also present was David Bradley (Filch), George Harris (Shacklebolt), and Nick Moran (Scabior). They weren't near as friendly, although Nick is much more attractive in person.</div>
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The question answer sessions were next on the agenda. Each person was given a ticket to a specific session at a specific time. You never knew who was going to be on stage, and you couldn't change days or times. You could attend other sessions, but could only be seated after ticket holders were.</div>
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During my session, when they brought out a footstool and placed it in front of a chair, we all cheered. We knew that meant that Warwick Davis would be there. When the directors and producers walked across stage, my mother and I were disappointed. We wouldn't even get a session with actors? Next came Warwick Davis (of course) and finally Jason Isaacs. When my mother saw Jason she made a noise I'd never heard before (a shout/cheer with a hint of Rawr). The session was surprisingly hilarious. Jason and Warwick fed off of each other, and the jokes were flying. I was pleasantly surprised, although I was already planning the next sessions I would attend (I wanted to see the other attendees).</div>
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The next day while my mother and I were shopping I randomly checked Twitter. On one of the Harry Potter news accounts that I followed were the words, "Rupert Grint to answer questions at [a time I can't remember]." I looked at mom and exclaimed, "Rupert is going to be at the next session!" She said, "Run, and I'll catch up." Without another word I darted all the way across the park to where the sessions were taking place. I wasn't even out of breath when I arrived, and was sixth in line to get in (after the ticket holders, that is). This was the ONLY session that actually was too full to allow everyone entrance. I guess word traveled pretty fast.</div>
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The session was actually a WEASLEY FAMILY session. The twins, Rupert, Mark Williams, and Domhnall Gleeson were all there.</div>
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These men were hilarious, interacting almost like a real family and answering a lot of questions from the audience. The twins discussed their frequent use of social media (namely Twitter). They teased Rupert for avoiding such things, egged on by the audience. Rupert even promised to start using Twitter (liar). Gleeson discussed his years spent on set because of his father (Brendan Gleeson/Mad-Eye Moody), and his eventual acceptance of the role of Bill. They talked about their friendships on and off set, and they all answered individual questions (although I can't remember all of the questions off of the top of my head).</div>
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Besides this question/answer session, the coolest part of this trip was the night time gala event. Not only did we get dinner, Butterbeer, and dessert provided to us by the park, but we got to ride the Wizarding World roller coasters at night. During this time, the Dueling Dragons ride actually ran each coaster at the same time (someone hadn't lost an eye yet), so it was really cool.</div>
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But the best part of THIS event was that we got to line up along the red carpet and get signatures from all of the actors and other celebrities that showed up. I will include a few pictures below.</div>
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I know that they are doing another one of these celebration events in January. I also know that Matt Lewis and Rupert will be there, as well as the old staples at these events (the Phelps twins and Evanna Lynch). I would say that if there are still tickets available, buy them and experience this for yourself. While it is busy, crowded, and crazy, it is definitely worth it. I made some lifelong friends during the event, and met some cool, famous people. The greatest aspect of the event is connecting with others that love Harry Potter as much as I do, and experiencing that excitement with others that appreciate it just as much.</div>
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potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-80245184915092789842015-11-23T01:32:00.000-08:002015-11-23T01:34:18.767-08:00Lizzie Bennet Diaries and Life Lessons<div style="color: #3d596d; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 25.5px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
Like many Jane Austen fans, I have watched (and enjoyed) "The Lizzie Bennet Diaries." For those who don't know what this is, I will give a small summary in this paragraph. For those who have seen this, you can skip to the next paragraph (when I get to the main point of this post). "The Lizzie Bennet Diaries" is a series of videos on Youtube that are a modern day adaptation of <em>Pride and Prejudice</em>. In this series, sisters Jane, Lizzie, and Lydia struggle with relationships, first impressions, financial difficulties, and misconceptions. They are seen through the eyes of Lizzie Bennet, the middle sister. Events are told in a vlog format, and we are introduced to many of the characters via Lizzie's opinions. These descriptions are often skewed because of Lizzie's original impressions of people, as well as her interpretation of events. Imagine the novel, but with characters from this time period dealing with technological advances, college, and mortgages, sex tapes.</div>
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Now, onto the real point of this post. The first time I watched this series was for a Jane Austen class, where I analyzed the inspiration of the author's books on modern day cinema and the differences that were created to fit it to this time period. The biggest, most important difference that I discovered was that there are real, strong lessons learned by the characters in the series. Instead of being left with that vague feeling of "Why did Lizzie fall in love with Darcy again? They barely interacted, but seeing his house and reading his letter suddenly made her change her mind about him? What?" we are able to fully comprehend why Lizzie changed her mind about someone she previously hated. There is more of a development in relationship, and Darcy is proven to be a kind, forgiving, and encouraging personality in Lizzie's life. The good characters are even better and more relatable, and the bad characters are completely despicable. I appreciated Lizzie's love of her sister Jane, her strong friendship with Charlotte, and her stereotypical older sister reactions to her overwhelming sister Lydia. I was glad to see her rally behind Lydia in her time of need, and how important the relationship between all three sisters ended up being. (Yes, there are only three sisters in this adaptation. Mary becomes the cousin that everyone forgets about, and Kitty becomes a literal kitty cat). The acting is great, the characters (even Lydia) lovable, and the emotions expressed in each video strong and believable.</div>
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The main reason that I started this blog is because recently I actually watched Lydia's vlogs (connected to the story, but on it's own channel). I am not sure why I hadn't watched these before, but I wish I had sooner. We get to see how much of a hot mess Lydia really is, of course; but we also get to see deeper emotions that are hidden in Lizzie's diaries. Although we got a few hints (when she looks sad at Lizzie calling her a 'boy crazy substance abuser and after her life takes a turn for the worse later in the series), these vlogs show the loneliness the much younger sister feels everyday, and her desperation to be a part of her Lizzie and Jane's lives. She makes a strong connection to Mary, and then clings to her as her only source of friendship. The deeper sadness that Lydia hides under her crazy antics and bubbly personality showed different layers to a character I used to think was annoying.</div>
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This is when the real spoilers for the series start. Then, Lydia meets up with George Wickham (after his falling out with Lizzie), and the vlogs take a turn for the depressing. In rebellion and anger against Lizzie, Lydia speeds off to Las Vegas, where she meets up with Wickham. The two begin a 'secret' relationship. The relationship quickly becomes disturbing. Wickham is abusive, there is no way around it. Not physically abusive, but emotionally. He starts by telling Lydia everything she wants to hear. He tells her the truth about his relationship with Darcy (while still finding a way to make Darcy seem like the bad guy), and then fills Lydia's head with compliments. He addresses all of her insecurities and makes it seem like he is the only one that understands her and loves her. Soon, he is separating her from her sisters, claiming that they don't understand her and he is the only one that has been there for her and cares about her. With things like, "You are amazing, no matter what everyone else says," making it seem like he is the ONLY ONE that sees her in this positive light. As the relationship progresses, Lydia becomes less spunky and more withdrawn, wearing gray and letting Wickham do much of the talking on the vlog. When Lydia suggests reaching out to her sisters, or expresses her concern about how they will take the budding relationship, Wickham reacts almost violently. He accuses her of not loving him enough, and he brings up what he'd done for her once more. This is such a realistic representation of an emotionally abusive relationship that I felt strongly for Lydia in a way that I never had before (and made me dislike Wickham more than ever before).</div>
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The relationship progresses in a way that when we discover she's filmed a sex tape with him, we almost understand WHY. We get to see a young, sweet, vulnerable girl get her heart broken and her trust shattered. The episode in which Lydia discovers Wickham's betrayal is a heart wrenching video, although still not as bad as a later video. His emotional abuse comes to a head, leaving Lydia sobbing in Lizzie's arms, chanting "Why didn't he love me?" The vlogs made this scene, and her severe pain, make perfect sense. Wickham broke her down by ripping away all of her relationships and then built her back up by professing his devotion. She built her new self around this relationship, so when it was torn away from her in such a devastating way, she didn't know how to survive.</div>
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The sisterly relationship is strengthened through these horrible events. Unlike the novel, Lydia learns from her mistakes and is able to rally again. The novel Lydia is oblivious to all of the terrible decisions she'd made and Wickham's terrible character. In the "Lizzie Bennet Diaries" Lydia is actually a fully actualized, three dimensional character. The relationship between the sisters is the important part of her story, not her romantic entanglements. I expected to like the older two Bennet sisters, but I wasn't expecting to really enjoy the character of Lydia Bennet. This modern take on the novel really stood out and did something that the book could not. It created four (including Charlotte) strong female characters who make important decisions and discover their best and strongest selves by the end of the series. While I will always love the novel, this series holds a very special place in my heart.</div>
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potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-47532973204550093002015-11-09T03:22:00.000-08:002015-11-09T03:22:36.188-08:00Family Vacation to Orlando Number One<div style="font-family: 'PT Serif', Georgia, serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 29.45px; margin-bottom: 1em;">
As the newest Orlando trip approaches, I am reminded about the last few trips my mother and I took to Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure. I realize that none of the few people that read my blog know when I went, what we did, or really anything else about the trips. I decided that I will discuss a little about all three trips (including pictures), in preparation of the approaching vacation family fun. </div>
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My first trip to Orlando Studios/Islands of Adventure was in 2010. I was desperate to go once they added the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. A little background information: Like millions of other people out there, I absolutely love Harry Potter. The books, the movies, the world created by J. K. Rowling. I love every little aspect of it. </div>
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The moment I walked into the park I was in awe. With a view like this:</div>
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how could I not be. The perfect representation of the most magical and amazing school ever created by an author, tangible and directly in front of me. </div>
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I couldn't wait to try Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. After a surprisingly short wait in the line for the ride, I discovered that it was broken, or at least down for repairs. They were nice enough to let people walk through to see the decorations inside. </div>
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The first day was a mixture of joy and disappointment. My mother's blood pressure medicine caused full body cramps and an asthma attack. After spending about an hour in the medical area behind the park (a rare, unique sight at least), the park was too full of people for us to get back into the Wizarding World area. We spent the rest of the day exploring the rest of the park. </div>
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The next few days were spent mostly in the Wizarding World only, just immersing ourselves in the tiny sample of the magical world. </div>
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We DID get to finally ride the Forbidden Journey. It was a unique ride that really felt like we were flying through the magical grounds of Hogwarts. My advice is to avoid the ride if you get motion sick easily (or at least don't make the same mistake I did, and ride it three times in a row in quick succession). </div>
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The two main shows (The Frog Choir and the performances of Durmstrang and Beauxbatons) were an interesting and creative addition. I enjoyed the school performances, but the Frog Choir was more entertaining. The singers had specific personalities based on their house affiliation, and their voices were delightful. The songs were great, and even Hedwig's Theme sounded lovely when sung A Capella. </div>
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One downside to the Wizarding World was the food. This trip was the only trip to Universal in which I ate the food at the Three Broomsticks, not because it was too expensive or too busy in the restaurant, but because it was not very good. I got the Shepard's Pie, and it honestly tasted like it was made at Taco Bell. It WAS pretty...but awful.</div>
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Of course, the main delicious attraction in the park was the Butterbeer. Honestly, frozen Butterbeer is so good that I dream about it sometimes. It's less than a month before I go back, and I think that might be the part that I look forward to the most. </div>
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A piece of advice to Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure virgins: If you really, really like butterscotch, try the regular, cold Butterbeer. It is quite strong, and a bit too intense for me. The frozen is a perfect blend of butterscotch flavor and icy cream. I am actually really excited to try the warm Butterbeer that they apparently have now. Okay, now I'm sad that I have to wait about a month to have some. </div>
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Something I got to see during my first visit to the Wizarding World that no one will see again is the Zonkos Joke shop. They have since moved all of the joke shop items to the Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes. I wish I had taken more pictures inside of the store, but I have a few that I will include, in case you are wondering what the store looked like. </div>
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If you were wondering, yes I did see other parts of the two parks on this trip, but the main focus was on the main attraction (or at least the main attraction for me). Here are pictures of some other highlights of the two parks, given in quick succession. </div>
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<img alt="" data-mce-src="https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/166231_618441830812_4889503_n.jpg?oh=8cb9803c7cbd03d0685277aa81a85c36&oe=56B6F57F" src="https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/166231_618441830812_4889503_n.jpg?oh=8cb9803c7cbd03d0685277aa81a85c36&oe=56B6F57F" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></div>
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<img alt="" data-mce-src="https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/39426_618234456392_2736051_n.jpg?oh=f8581558d5188fe9100288e821b15e4d&oe=56F42628" src="https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfa1/v/t1.0-9/39426_618234456392_2736051_n.jpg?oh=f8581558d5188fe9100288e821b15e4d&oe=56F42628" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%;" /></div>
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potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-54374562298253782302015-10-26T02:37:00.000-07:002015-10-26T02:37:13.205-07:00Getting Back to Writing and NaNoWriMo<div style="font-family: 'PT Serif', Georgia, serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 29.45px; margin-bottom: 1em;">
As previously mentioned, I have been a bit unmotivated to write since I graduated with my MFA in Creative Writing. Getting a degree in creative writing and then not writing is unfortunate. It somehow makes my degree seem pointless. Because of this I have had some thoughts and ideas, and I made a few decisions.</div>
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<li style="margin-top: 0.3em;">I seriously considered doing NaNoWriMo. The concept of writing 50,000 words in a month seemed appealing to me, but the panic set in pretty quickly at the thought of it. While I want to start writing again, I'm not sure I want to jump straight into the deep end after such a long time now swimming. The contest would likely influence me to actually write, but I am not sure that it would be worth the downhearted feeling I would get from not completing the full project. This is still an option, and I do have until November 1st to make this decision. </li>
<li style="margin-top: 0.3em;">I have considered seeking out contests on other websites to give me motivation to write. But, I'll be honest. I would probably not write anything new after all. Instead, I would try to find a story or poem I already have that would fit the contest, or I wouldn't participate in the contest at all. I would rather focus on writing something new for the sake of writing, and maybe submit some of my old works to journals now.</li>
<li style="margin-top: 0.3em;">I could search the internet or books for writing prompts. Prompts have always helped to influence the formation of ideas, but this still wouldn't really get me writing. Ideas spin around in my head already, and while I jot down ideas, I generally don't write extensively right now. This is still a really good idea for when I start getting motivated to write.</li>
<li style="margin-top: 0.3em;">I have considered joining forums or some sort of online community for support. In all honesty I searched for face-to-face meet ups or groups, but the idea of meeting a large (or small) group of strangers face to face terrified me. I have problems connecting with people in my everyday life. The thought of discussing my writing to a real, live person and being able to see their reactions in the flesh was not appealing. Thus, online forums. I am not really sure that this is the proper arena for me either. I think I'm just not really ready to share my projects with anyone. I would be interested in discussing the process of writing, though.</li>
<li style="margin-top: 0.3em;">The final, and most likely to succeed, idea that I have sort of stems from the idea of NaNoWriMo. Instead of struggling to write an entire novel in a month (and risking the disappointment at not finishing), I think I will just create a daily writing schedule that I will follow no matter what. This would consist of setting aside a specific time each day (or in my case, night) to write. For example, maybe I could schedule to write at 8 pm every night for an hour. This would be nonstop writing, without revision. This is the same concept that is present in the NaNoWriMo contest, but without all of the added pressure of getting to 50,000 words. </li>
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I really plan on writing at least a little every day throughout November. This seems like the most feasible and appropriate idea for someone who hasn't written much in months. I am still seriously considering signing up for NaNoWriMo for the experience, especially since I researched and discovered that the "novel" doesn't get put on the internet for everyone to see. That privacy aspect is very important to me, at least in the beginning of the writing process. </div>
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Although, I suppose if I am going to participate in a novel writing experiment I should start thinking about <em>what</em> I will write. Ah, now that's the really hard part, isn't it?</div>
potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-52521337551983717192015-10-20T23:25:00.000-07:002015-10-20T23:25:18.531-07:00Family Vacations<div style="font-family: 'PT Serif', Georgia, serif; font-size: 19px; line-height: 29.45px; margin-bottom: 1em;">
As December approaches, I am starting to get more nervous and more excited. No, not because of Christmas. Christmas has sort of become unimportant to me since I've become an adult (and sort of poor). It is pretty much a day to spend time with my mother and boyfriend, eating a nice dinner and doing family things. </div>
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No, on December sixth, my mother and I will be going to Orlando, Florida to Universal Studios and the Islands of Adventure. This will be the fourth time I've been, so you'd think I wouldn't be this excited. I have found, though, that I don't have much to look forward to these days since school ended and I've been stuck in a sort of dead end job, so vacationing with my mother is something that brings me joy. </div>
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My biggest piece of advice to everyone is to spend time enjoying the company of family while you have the chance. I am 31 years old, and I am going to a theme park with my mother. While this might seem a bit immature, it is something fun that I can do with my mother and involves something I love (Harry Potter). Last year, one of my mother's childhood friends (the daughter of a family friend) got a terrible case of the flu. This lead to infections (including blood and brain infections) and her untimely death. This sudden, terrible death made us both realize that life is really short and, and any second could be our last. I don't have children, I'm not married, and I don't have a demanding job at the moment. This means that I have time to actually spend with my mother, while both of us are healthy and free to leave for a week. </div>
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I'm not saying that everyone should go on vacation to a theme park. That is just what WE like to do. But I would advise everyone to step back and take a moment to appreciate what they have, spend time with their loved ones, and cherish the lives they have while they have them. You never know when there will be no more time at all.</div>
potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-83616929229365630642015-10-12T00:24:00.002-07:002015-10-12T00:24:30.902-07:00Writing about writing againI’m feeling a little stagnant right now. I graduated from
college in 2014, and I can’t seem to get motivated to do anything creative. I
wrote so many stories when I was in the creative writing program at Lindenwood
University, and created a successful thesis. I must have done a pretty good job
with that creativity business because I got a 4.0, but now I feel like the
creative juices have completely dried up. It is pretty painful for someone how
used to love writing more than anything else. On a positive note I have started
reading again (as I mentioned in a previous post), which has got me thinking
creatively again. I have come up with a few ideas recently, which I have added
to my notes. I just can’t seem to sit down and write anything productively.
Right now I’m feeling really old and useless. I don’t even have a full time
job. This would be the perfect time to write (before I start working 40 hours a
week). I just get a little depressive about feeling a bit like a loser, so I
end up laying around vegging out. I really just want to get motivated and
write. If I could write a successful piece, that would be even better.<br />
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Anyone out there feel like this ever? How do you motivate
yourself? How do you get out of a funk? <o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m hoping that this blog helps at least get me started with
writing, even though this isn’t really what I mean by creative. We will see how
long I can keep this up and how long it takes me to start writing again. Here’s
hoping it doesn’t take forever. potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-15212515821746247862015-10-03T22:06:00.000-07:002015-10-03T22:06:23.629-07:00Reading againI started reading again. This might sound silly, but since I started (probably) my second masters degree, I haven't really read a book for myself. I read a few continuations of book series, but I haven't started a new series, or read individual books. I have collections and collections of books on my kindle and on bookshelves, but I have either been too lazy to read (it's easier to veg out to the tv) or I just don't think about it until I'm too tired. I went home to visit family for a week and took the opportunity to start a new book. I have to say that I have realized what I was missing. Reading a new book has made me want to read even more, and I am feeling inspired for writing as well. Ideas that had always been floating around in my head for stories have started becoming fuller ideas, and I've started really thinking up new concepts. I'm hoping this is a sign that it isn't too late for me to reach for my dreams.potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-55789243693010218042015-09-24T21:25:00.004-07:002015-09-24T21:26:43.127-07:00Struggling to write<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">Since graduation I admit that I have struggled to write. It's not like I have no ideas, or the words escape me. It seems like I have just gotten lazy. How can someone be too lazy to sit and write? Well, I think a part of it is that I get a little depressed thinking about how old I am (31) and how little I have actually accomplished in my life. I sit down to write, and I think, "Why bother, it's not like anyone will actually want to read this." Or, "I should try to publish some of these poems, but I'm just going to get a lot of rejection letters." </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">I realize this is not a healthy way to be, especially when writing used to be my passion. I know that I need to change the attitude and find my motivation again. One thing I really need to do is read more. When I was in school I had a mandatory reading list that I had to follow, so I didn't do a lot of reading for myself. Yes, there were a few books that I shoved into my schedule because I couldn't NOT read them (Harry Potter, Harry Dresden, Percy Jackson), but I haven't really sat down and started a new book or series since I started working on my final years of education. I need to sit down, turn off the television, and read a good (or even mediocre) book. I have a few books downloaded and ready in my Kindle, and I just bought three new poetry books. Hopefully, this will be the push I need to start the upward climb toward writing my own new fiction and poetry.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #674ea7;">Now, a question for anyone that might happen by this post: What do you do to get motivated to write? What would you say is your writing strategy? Any advice for writing you have I would be grateful to have. </span></span>potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-32670703432699886642015-09-23T21:18:00.001-07:002015-09-24T21:27:12.676-07:00Just a little rantA friend of mine was bullied pretty cruelly on Facebook, and my brain was split in half between two thoughts. My first thought was to rip this rude girl apart on all levels in an attempt to make her feel just as small as she probably made my friend feel. The other thought was to ignore the rude girl because she was probably an internet troll, just commenting on her picture as a way to get reactions out of people.<br />
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Having someone call my friend "a whale" was bad enough. But then she had the gall to tell her that she was so fat she should just kill herself. As if there aren't enough depressed young people out there these days and enough young people killing themselves, it seems like this girl's goal was to get my friend to kill herself.<br />
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Luckily, my friend responded with confidence and sass, so I took my cue from her. I did respond in support of my friend, but I kept it civil and called the troll out on her immaturity and bad behavior. On her Facebook page, the troll claimed to be a fan of Harry Potter. I told her that J. K. Rowling would not approve of her behavior, because our favorite author loves and accepts people of all shapes and sizes.<br />
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I can understand wanting to get reaction out of others on the internet. People love attention, and maybe she isn't getting enough at home. I just can't understand getting this attention through cruelty. Her reasoning was that she hates humanity, but that's a terrible way to go through life. Maybe we should actually be pitying her instead of being angry, because obviously she is missing out on some emotional need at home. I choose to be polite, even to internet trolls. Being angry or aggressive toward them only feeds their hatred and makes them worse.potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-63890374515833237712012-03-27T02:11:00.001-07:002015-09-24T21:27:28.777-07:00SchoolAfter one more terribly written, absolutely terrifying rejection type comment from my portfolio professor I am completely depressed. I should add that I am alone in my apartment with no one to really talk to about it. I really am beginning to wonder if I will even be able to graduate and it's depressing. But at the same time, my frustration is rising to the point where I'm thinking, "Screw it. I've already been excepted to a creative writing program at another school. If I don't graduate, I'll still have someplace to go."<br />
BTW. I feel that I should add the professor's response to my writing, so that people can understand why I am not only upset but a little pissed off (this professor can NEVER apply revisions to her own writing, apparently). <br />
<em>"While heading in right directin (ie oeral cohernet claim/vision) this seems to be excessive in terms of patchworking: the quoted sections are HUGE and the anbalysis parts (ie of your own work) are general and not particularly focused/connected...ie the same sort of generalising tendency in your writing is showing here about your writing ABOIUT your writing...What is you spent more time discussing specifics AND possibly providing sample revbisions of those passages" </em>potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-82958564095425794442009-11-21T01:07:00.001-08:002009-11-21T01:12:56.376-08:00What to do, what to do...Well, here I am, once again up really late and unsure what to do to pass the time. I have to admit that as I get closer to getting my Master's degree, the further I get from knowing what exactly I want to do with my life. My degree is going to be in Counseling, and while it would be nice to be a counselor, it is not really what I dreamed I would be doing with my life. What would that be, do you ask? I want to write. I want to teach at a college. (English, that is, not Psychology). Now, I cannot really lecture and teach if I do not have at least a Master's in English...sooo now I am left wondering a few things. Do I go BACK to college for another two to three years at 25 so that I can get a Master's and/or Doctorate in English so that I can POSSIBLY be a professor, do I go into a Master's in Fine Arts in writing (that will take a little over a year at the college in St. Charles MO) to possibly become a better writer and maybe teach at a college, or do I suck it up and finally quit going to school. All of these possiblities boggles my mind and makes me feel slightly like a loser.<br /><br />I really do not want to be stuck in Missouri all of my life, although I am not sure where else I want to be. *wails* I don't mean to sound all depressed and emo, I just am having a lot of whirling thoughts...what to do, what to do.potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-91332643263976707772009-11-07T22:36:00.000-08:002009-11-07T22:39:18.301-08:00Hmmm...I'm not sure what to think.I am sitting here in a room with a whole bunch of drunk people. It started out with just a few friends and then suddenly there were more people and they are really loud. I'm not sure what I think about that. If you know me (which likely most people here do not) I am NOT a drinker, so this is a little bit annoying. They are almost too loud and obnoxious, talking about sex and badly about other people. I can barely think to type this post. Defenately couldn't write. *sigh*potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2596854556381807414.post-90360005124257328622009-11-07T22:15:00.000-08:002009-11-07T22:16:40.919-08:00First blog here ever.Well, I saw this being used by many people, and although I already have a livejournal, I thought I would give this a try. Let's see how this goes.potterndresdenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05202605663362072827noreply@blogger.com0