IN WHICH you’ll eat what may be the best or worst food of your life

No one has reported getting food poisoning so I’m going to declare the dinner a success.

One of my goals for the longest time had been to learn how to cook a meal. And I finally went through with it!

I always thought I would make some sort of Italian dish- fettucine alfredo with chicken and vegetables- since that’s my favorite. But I think it’s because I’ve also been trying to reconnect with my Filipino culture that I decided on pancit and lumpia. Those were definitely food I remember growing up and which I enjoyed eating.

I also decided to invite a few people since I didn’t want to go through all the trouble to cook for myself. Where’s the fun in that? In the end, there would be 16 people (including myself) and I’ve got to say I was overwhelmed. But I’m so appreciative to everyone who came to the dinner, brought a meal or drinks, helped out, actually ate the food, and didn’t get sick. (And, thanks to my Mom for giving me the recipe and instructions!)

The best part for me wasn’t being able to finally cross this item off my list but seeing people come together. Thanks, again!

Filipino Fun Facts cards that I made so there would be an educational component to the evening!

Filipino Fun Facts cards- Basic information

Filipino Fun Facts cards- A very abstract rendition of the Philippines

Filipino Fun Facts cards- The flag

Filipino Fun Facts cards- The alphabet

Filipino Fun Facts cards- Someone said I should have mentioned Corazon Aquizon, the 11th President of the Philippines, and the first (and, so far, only) woman to have held that office.

Filipino Fun Facts cards- Phrases

Filipino Fun Facts cards- Phrases

Filipino Fun Facts cards- A little information about the food being served

Filipino Fun Facts cards- Some more phrases. I tried to pick ones that people might actually end up using in everyday life

Ingredient for the pancit

Ingredient for the lumpia

Lumpia wrappers

Carrots. Not fingers.

Pancit

Lumpia

My super helper of the evening!

Another helper! Another Asian!

Goooooooaaaaalllllllllsssss!!!!!!

2013 will be TRIUMPHANT! I know I used the term already during my Season of Service, Summer of Spark challenge in August but that was one of the best and productive times of my life. And since it worked so well then, I figured I might as well continue it throughout the year.

One of my focuses is to DO LESS but with MORE MEANING. Last year, I volunteered 315 hours. I’ll continue to volunteer. I have my regular shifts for Multnomah County Library and the Children’s Book Bank. Helping out at so many organizations has taught me (1) to try new things and (2) what I like and don’t like to do. It’s helped me realize that I should be focusing on what I want and like to be doing.

I read 324 books last year. Because of my multiple reading challenges (Caldecott, Dr. Seuss and A to Z Picture Book Series), working at a children’s bookstore, and just because I enjoy those kinds of books anyway, 247 were picture books, including 9 board books. My goal was to read at least 60 books and I ended up reading 77. This year, I want to get more out of the books I read.

As I’ve mentioned in my other blog, “The Chronicles Of A Children’s Book Writer,” my other focus is my Commitment to Literacy. If I can get everyone I know to get a library card and/or (but preferably and) to read at least one book this year, then I’d be happy/ happier. If this post has made you do any of those things, let me know. If you already have a library card, tell me. If you’ve read a book this year already, please share your thoughts on it with me.

Also, for every comment on that blog, I will donate a book to the Children’s Book Bank. (I have blog goals as well which you can read there.)

I want to be better at my work. I love bookselling and I love recommending titles to our customers so a way I can do this is to read books we get in store. Another thing I can do is to figure out how to let people know about us.

I want to be a better board member. Stepping up to chair the Marketing and Membership committee, I need to get more members to join and more people to like our Facebook and Twitter pages.

I want to go back to school and get the degrees necessary to become an educator. I’m sure I’m still going to be a writer (eventually) but while that’s not happening at a pace to my liking, I figured I’d focus on something I’m equally passionate and interested about. To me, they tie in together with my Commitment to Literacy.

Here are some of other my goals:

-Remember people’s names

-Be nicer to baristas

-Be less gossipy (Although, I think I tend to share information or opinions more than I actually gossip)

-Lose 10 pounds

-Exercise more- at least 45 minutes and doing other things besides walking and the elliptical

-Eat less fast food

-Build my savings back up

-No more lending money

-Read more local and new authors

-Complete my Agatha Christie collection

-Buy from a local bookstore once a month

-Read at least 60 books that aren’t picture or board books

-Read the books in my bookshelf

-Finish my A to Z Picture Book Series Reading Challenge

-Read all of Eric Carle books

-Learn how to cook

-Watch the Star Wars and Brat Pack movies

-Monthly write

-Go to Vegas for my 30^th birthday in April

-Send out new Christmas cards

-Go to San Francisco for Christmas?

-Save money to go to the Philippines Christmas 2014

Please feel free to share your resolutions with me!

I know that most of my accomplishments are in part due to people helping, encouraging, and supporting me and I know that will continue to be the case. Here’s to a TRIUMPHANT year to all of us!

2012 Year in Review

2012’s theme was to Dream Big. I can’t say that I did that because everything I’ve done and accomplished were all realistic and planned out.

I launched two new blogs.

“Library Hopping in PDX” (with Carly) made me appreciate libraries even more with how much they do for the community, and for me. In fact, because they offered free classes, they helped me with a personal milestone- becoming a citizen! I feel I have more of a voice to shape the world (or, at least this country) for the better. Getting to vote during my first election was truly a thrill.

“The Chronicles Of A Children’s Book Writer” has been a great way to share my passion of children’s literature. I’ve gotten to know interesting people through the popular meme “It’s Monday! What Are You Reading?” (IMWAYR). It’s kind of an incredible feeling to know people out there are actually reading words I write/type. It’s also been hard work and a continuing learning experience to maintain a blog.

In other book-related news, I became a Friends of the Multnomah County Library board member. I’m always going to try and help libraries any way I can. This year in particular, there have been lots to do. I’m glad I was part of making library history by voting it to form its own district. I recently just took on chairing the Membership and Marketing committee so I’m excited for that challenge!

I also participated in World Book Night- in which I rode the streetcars and handed people copies of one of my favorite books, “The Kite Runner.”

I got laid off in May. Working at McKenzie Books and Cash4Books for over 3 years had been wonderful. Lots of people there have become friends. I’m glad I left there on a positive note.

 It’s funny how what may seem like a bad thing at the time is actually a blessing in disguise. One of the best things to come out of getting laid off was getting to spend a wonderful summer of service. My original volunteering goal was 100 for the year and I’m ending at 315 hours! Some of the highlights include participating in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Weekend of Service, being a Volunteer Leader for The Children’s Book Bank, participating in Hands On TeamWorks, being a volunteer for Multnomah County Library’s Summer Reading program, and Potluck in the Park’s Christmas Dinner.

I got a job at Green Bean Books. I couldn’t have asked for anything better! I love bookselling. I’m never more in my element than talking about books and finding the right one for a particular reader! I love the other things I get (and have gotten) to do like holding author events, selling books at Wordstock, meeting authors who come in the store, getting to know the customers, and making shelftalkers, mustaches, snow globes, and jack-in-the-boxes. I’ve been inspired to be creative while working there which was one reason I finally finished the Christmas Cards I originally conceived of four years ago!

I moved out from my studio and into a house with four other people. That was quite a change for me but, as I’ve come to realize, the people in my life are just a wonderful and crazy cast of characters who support me and make me happy. A lot of my goals, I couldn’t have done without family and friends supporting me. Without them, things probably wouldn’t be as fun. Some festive moments over this past year included parties, volunteering, my birthday, the holidays, “summer of spark,” and of course Library Hopping.

Once again, I’ve had to say goodbye to people who’ve gone too soon.  It doesn’t get any easier. I still miss them and try to honor them by trying to be nicer and just having an open heart.

With recent horrific events in the news, I hope no one ever has to feel so alone that they'll ever consider doing something drastic to themselves or others. Or, that if they're going through something, I hope they have someone to go to to help them. Maybe if we're a little bit kinder to everyone certain things will be avoided. And that in the face of unbearable sadness we can be there for one another.

In a way, I can relate to feeling like an outsider. For the longest time, I was struggling with who I was, how I fit in, and whether I would be accepted. But I made a huge step in the right direction of living a life that was most authentic to me. It wasn't the end of the world- neither was December 21, apparently! In fact, life got better because it was one less thing I had to worry about.

I don’t know if it’s all this planning ahead but I love this feeling of excitement. I’m so looking forward to 2013. It’s going to be great. It’s going to be TRIUMPHANT!

Your Feedback, Please

First of all, I would like to say thank you to everyone who’s ever bothered to read anything I’ve ever written- my blog posts, in particular- and for being supportive of my dream of becoming a writer.

And, really, that’s the thing I don’t understand: why anyone would believe I have what it takes to be a writer when I haven’t proved that I can. If I heard that from someone and it’s been as long as it has with nothing to show for it, I would seriously doubt that person’s dedication.

Why is it I can tell people what is the best thing for them do (and I often do even when it’s not asked for!) but I can’t convince myself to just write and get something written even if it’s just a rough draft? I guess that’s why I’m asking you or your feedback.

Some questions to consider…

Why are you supportive of my dream of becoming a writer?

a.       Because you’re naturally going to encourage everything I do because I’m your family/friend

b.      Because it’s what I say I want and you want me to be happy

c.       Because you believe everyone who has a dream should go for it

Why aren’t you supportive of my dream of becoming a writer?

a.       Because I’m all talk

b.      Because it’s not really what I want to/should be doing

c.       Because I’m not talented

Why do you think I can write when I haven’t shared anything?

What do you think I should be writing?

What do you think I can add to the literary scene?

What can I do to improve on my strengths and weaknesses?

What do you think I should be doing besides/instead of writing?

Be honest since I am asking for your feedback and therefore I am ready for the good and the bad. I truly value your input. Elaborate. Be specific. I really have a problem taking anything seriously when it sounds like a generic comment. And, I’m neither fishing for compliments nor just getting kicks off being criticized.

You can email me your answers at EA12L @ HOTMAIL . COM (No spaces, of course.) Again, thank you.

Disney Animated Films Ranked from Best to Worst

About a year or so ago, I decided to watch all the Disney animated films in reverse chronological order. I don't know why I added that particular rule. Perhaps it was to force myself to watch the newer movies first?

It's interesting to see how Pinocchio actually surpassed The Sword in the Stone as my favorite movie. I don't think I had rewatched Pinocchio since I was 5 years old- or even younger. I definitely wore out our VHS copy of it. I guess I didn't want to ruin my memory of it. If I had watched it again and didn't like it, it would have felt like saying goodbye to another part of my childhood, when everything still seemed wonderful and magical.

But, I'm digressing, spiraling. Watching these films- some for the first time, some who knows how many times- reminded me that the world is indeed still full of possibilities and creativity. Our dreams define so much of who we were and who we are and, though they may be different, is what connects us to others.

Walt Disney is one of my Imagination Icons.

I included my initial reactions after watching each one.

I'll be updating as I watch the latest movies!

(5 Stars)

-PINOCCHIO has been my favorite since I was a kid. It is as full of wonder and magic as I remember.

-THE SWORD IN THE STONE is another one of my favorite Disney movie. It’s a feel-good film with great characters and a wonderful story. I love it!

-THE LION KING is classic Disney! Even after all these years, the story, songs and art still stand out.

-THE LITTLE MERMAID- Classic! Great story and songs.

-ALADDIN- Classic! Great story and songs.

-BEAUTY & THE BEAST- I remember originally not liking this movie but after rewatching it for my Disney Challenge, I was totally captivated by the story. I love the songs!

-MOANA is definitely Top 10 Disney with its masterful art& storytelling. Great characters. Music that you'd want to actually listen to.

-How can you go wrong w/ ALICE IN WONDERLAND? Fun, fantastic, whimsical wordplay galore!

-For all its faults, BAMBI truly is a classic film. I enjoyed it more than I thought I would- or remembered. Very artistic.

-101 DALMATIANS is a wonderful Disney film! Artsy, stylish. Great characters and some of the meanest meanies ever!

-PETER PAN is hard not to like. Truly a Disney classic filled with all the magic and wonder we come to expect!

-SNOW WHITE is truly an accomplishment in animation! Although, I found her voice annoying!

-FANTASIA - A fun great way to combine music and art for the whole family! It was a tad too long for my liking!

-BIG HERO 6 was so good, I would watch it again! Action-packed scenes and emotional moments provide a satisfying movie!

-THE ARISTOCATS is another great Disney film. The kittens were adorable. The mouse sounded like Winnie-the-Pooh!

-ROBIN HOOD has definitely made my top Disney animated movies. A fun family film with great characters!

-MULAN is classic Disney with a strong story, memorable songs, laughter, action, and heart.

-Impressed with Disney's POCAHONTAS! Strong story & characters. The music fit in with the movie so well. Truly a classic!

(4 Stars)

-While singing mice are creepy and we have yet another mute prince, CINDERELLA is classic.

-LILO & STITCH is a surprisingly good movie. Liked the original story and animation choices. Welcome back, Disney!

-TARZAN was surprisingly good- despite the Phil Collins songs. Great animation. Fascinating story. Wouldn't mind watching again.

-Didn't think I'd like THE PRINCESS & THE FROG but I did. Unexpected turns made this movie shine. Makes you believe again.

-ZOOTOPIA was surprisingly fun even if certain plot points were completely predictable. Great timely message of diversity.

-OLIVER & COMPANY was a good Disney film even if it didn't make 100% sense and was too short. Good music, characters. Interesting illustrations.

-THE GREAT MOUSE DETECTIVE was a fun Disney film, a great homage to Sherlock Holmes. Wish there were more!

-Just watched TANGLED. Disney hasn't lost all its magic. Great, creative storytelling that inspires. I want to watch them all now.

-THE EMPEROR'S NEW GROOVE is a funny slapstick buddy movie. Great vocal talents.

-Could've done without the gargoyles and music but THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME was an OK Disney movie. So not for kids though!

-THE MANY ADVENTURES OF WINNIE THE POOH- So simple and charming!

-WINNIE THE POOH. Wished it hadn't end so soon! Interesting scene at the end of the credits. PS- I dislike Tigger.

-FANTASIA 2000

(3 Stars)

-THE FOX & THE HOUND sure was violent! But enjoyable. Interesting backstory. Strong message of friendship.

-While not the best movie ever, MEET THE ROBINSONS sure has heart- almost a love letter to Walt Disney and his vision. Keep Moving Forward!

-CHICKEN LITTLE is fun and such a throwback to its vintage style.

-WRECK-IT RALPH is a fun enough Disney film. Hated Sarah Silverman's voice and character. Had its moments.

-HOME ON THE RANGE mayn't be a Disney classic- at times, it tries too hard to be funny- but it was quite enjoyable. Very country.

-THE THREE CABALLEROS was quite enjoyable despite centering around Donald Duck. Mostly fun segments, inventive and imaginative.

-The problem with SLEEPING BEAUTY is the characters are practically mute and non-existent. It is, at least, very pretty to watch.

-BOLT is a pretty good movie. After the gimmicky beginning, there's an actual story. Disney has been lacking in memorable songs though.

(2 Stars)

-LADY AND THE TRAMP. Quite lackluster but the spaghetti scene remains memorable even now!

-I didn't particularly care for Disney's THE JUNGLE BOOK but who can't not like Baloo the Bear?

-ATLANTIS: THE LOST EMPIRE is a fun, great adventure but it didn't feel like a Disney film at all. No songs!

-Watched FROZEN. Didn't understand all the raves about it. There were moments but not enough to make it interesting. Songs were OK.

-MELODY TIME had some good moments but nothing quite great.

-SALUDOS AMIGOS was an interesting almost documentary like entry in the Disney films. It's amazing to think how much impact animation had.

(1 Star)

-FUN AND FANCY FREE is an odd entry in the Disney collection. Another package feature. Rather dark. Not particularly enjoyable.

-DUMBO was kind of dumb and depressing. Cute, though, at times.        

-THE RESCUERS seemed like a redundant addition to the Disney canon.

-I need to remember not all Disney movies are supposed to be musicals! They can showcase the latest in animation like with THE RESCUERS DOWN UNDER.

-DINOSAUR was kind of pointless. Though I guess visually compelling, the story was weak. Watch THE LAND BEFORE TIME instead.

-THE ADVENTURES OF ICHABOD AND MR. TOAD is super lame with unlikable characters. It did have some good moments.

-HERCULES was incredibly lame. Weak plot points. Horrible songs. Uninteresting characters. Mediocre illustrations.

-TREASURE PLANET was another weak Disney film. Ugly illustrations. Unnecessary "cute" characters.

-Nothing about THE BLACK CAULDRON screamed Disney. It's like an extremely lame version of THE SWORD IN THE STONE!

-MAKE MINE MUSIC alternated between boring and really boring- except for one or two shorts. I actually fell asleep watching this.

-BROTHER BEAR. Simply horrible! Bad animation and weak, nonsensical storyline.