tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64980433357685349472012-01-31T15:36:43.813-07:00A place for Author Karen Chow's musingsKaren Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.comBlogger1401100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-88981621029340886282012-01-30T11:45:00.000-07:002012-01-30T11:45:00.121-07:00

Welcome to Grammar Lesson Monday! This continuous series will address many common grammar mistakes made in the media and that I've seen more than once.  I strive to make the world a better place with good grammar. Today, we will learn how to fix our verb agreement (specifically with "there"). I will preface this with the fact that I'm just as guilty at doing this all the time. When

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-89257091599086841602012-01-27T08:00:00.000-07:002012-01-27T08:00:01.815-07:00

Have you heard about Pinterest? It's a website that you can collect images (and connects the images back to their original sources) in categories to save ideas you like. I'm a little late to jump on the bandwagon, but so far I really love it.  I love that you can find all sorts of inspirational images to aspire to.  My 'Craft Ideas' board keeps growing and growing!  Could be dangerous... If

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-66181933032153311992012-01-23T10:25:00.001-07:002012-01-23T10:25:15.885-07:00

source   Happy Chinese New Year!  Gong-xi-fa-tsai!  (That's spelled wrong somehow, but it's pronounced correctly.) This year is the first year my husband and I are handing out a red envelope.  And it will be for our daughter Emma.  :) Traditionally, grownups (people with children) are the only ones handing out red envelopes.  In very traditional families, the grownups hand out red

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-86707532430358782482012-01-23T08:00:00.000-07:002012-01-27T07:26:07.508-07:00

Welcome to Grammar Lesson Monday! This continuous series will address many common grammar mistakes made in the media and that I've seen more than once.  I strive to make the world a better place with good grammar. Today, we will learn how to differentiate between "there" and "their" and "they're." "There" is a place. Let's go over there. "Their" is possessive. I want to go over there

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-62235431420221819172012-01-20T08:00:00.000-07:002012-01-20T08:00:01.130-07:00

This whole week, I found myself thinking back to the PBS Masterpiece Classic series Downtown Abbey (the first two episodes of the 2nd season are available to view here).  If you haven't seen this upstairs/downstairs period drama, check it out!  It is so good.  Good writing, good stories, good acting. The third episode is airing Sunday night at 8pm.  :) My husband and I are obsessed with

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-65360899926040470282012-01-17T08:00:00.000-07:002012-01-17T08:00:03.991-07:00

Welcome to the first installment of Grammar Lesson Monday! This continuous series will address many common grammar mistakes made in the media and that I've seen more than once.  I strive to make the world a better place with good grammar. Today, we will learn how to make family names (aka last names) plural. My family name would be Chow.  So making it plural is The Chows. If someone's

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-13465879152073422132012-01-13T08:00:00.000-07:002012-01-19T11:28:21.403-07:00

Happy New Year (13 days late)!!!  I hope you all had a fulfilling 2011 and are striving toward new things in 2012. I have made a few New Year's resolutions...some of which are the same as last year's (shh! don't tell).  1) To work on my "brand"      At the end of last year, I went to a helpful writer's conference hosted by the Desert Rose chapter of Romance Writers of America (RWA). 

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-52044715552409847332011-10-19T11:01:00.000-07:002011-10-19T11:01:52.075-07:00

source Because I'm one of those annoying people who can't help editing as I read, write, or go about my day, I'm going to start posting little grammar lessons.  Most of these errors are very common and I hope it will help all of you live life just a little bit smarter...or make you feel a little bit smarter.  :) Grammar Lesson for the day When referring to people in a sentence, you need

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-43447287089146922412011-10-13T14:21:00.000-07:002011-10-13T14:27:38.792-07:00

source It's that time of year!  When leaves change color, the weather gets cooler, and people start wearing sweaters.  (Unless, of course, you're in Arizona and the weather is still 100 degrees in the middle of October. boo.)  But we all look forward to the holidays! November is officially National Novel Writing Month.  Your goal: to write 50,000 words in one month (which equates to about

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-50734222685823207492011-09-11T11:08:00.000-07:002011-09-11T11:08:11.936-07:00

source Just like so many other catastrophic events in history, we try to recall where we were and what we felt when we heard about the 9/11 plane crashes. I was completely clueless.  I didn't have a TV in my dorm room.  I was just a normal college student going about my routine...waking up, getting dressed, walking to class, ready to take notes. My friend Becky informed me that there

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-12652123869401817932011-09-10T09:02:00.003-07:002011-09-10T09:02:37.139-07:00

I'm crossing off the first item on my 101 in 1001 list: 27. Make 3 new things from a cookbook If you ask my husband, he'll tell you that I am a notorious recipe follower. I am not good at improvising cooked dishes. And because of this, we have tons of cookbooks...most of them sit there doing nothing for the majority of the year. I only pull one out when I'm "in the mood" to make

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-55365064904548641502011-09-01T08:00:00.001-07:002011-09-01T08:00:04.704-07:00

sourceAfter 30 days of birthday, did you make it? LOL. What a whirlwind of blogging! At 30 years old, I feel like I accomplished something. hahaha. Actually, I've never blogged everyday for a whole month. Now I'm going to work on my 101 goals in 1001 days for a while. So, while I take a little bit of a break, I challenge you to do something that you've never done before. See you soon! :)

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-73612768108088515802011-08-31T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-31T08:00:09.076-07:00

I go to a Mommy and Me group on Thursday mornings (since I'm off of work for the time being and need something to do). I met the founder of the group, IBCLC-certified (lactation consultant) Doris Christensen, when my daughter was only a few days old. I was having trouble breastfeeding, so we contacted her. She is the main reason why I am still breastfeeding today. If you ever need advice or help

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-29167792145006152182011-08-30T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-30T08:00:09.297-07:00

source* For years, I've loved reading Agatha Christie mysteries. They are my go-to when I'm looking to curl up with a good murder. mwa ha ha. While I haven't read all of her books, my favorite is The Boomerang Clue (also called Why Didn't They Ask Evans?). It's just the cutest story with two budding young crime investigators who are good friends. (It's a non-Poirot, though I do love Poirot,

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-81533386041046048152011-08-29T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-29T08:00:03.461-07:00

sourceThree years ago, when we were in the process of buying our house, a friend joyfully handed over their copy of The Total Money Makeover for us to borrow. What a life changer! Dave Ramsey had a lot of great advice about taking steps to become totally debt free and how to keep track of your money in a smart way. My church even provides classes with his Financial Peace University methods. His

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-7345085225200707542011-08-28T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-28T08:00:02.261-07:00

sourceMy best friend always claims that the best thing about Disney is that it makes you cry. Which really means that it touches upon something in the heart. Now that it's been a few years since she said that, I'm totally in agreement. Pixar's Up? Bawled my eyes out at the beginning sequence...especially when she loses her baby.Tangled? Those tears fell when Ryder was dead (a la Beauty and the

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-53869550864239023802011-08-27T08:00:00.008-07:002011-08-27T08:00:07.479-07:00

All Images Copyright of Brenda Eden Photography (please credit them if using image) Before my daughter was born, my husband and I decided to get pictures taken. It had been almost 6 years since we had any kind of professional photos (basically, since our wedding). So, we wanted to commemorate the moments before we became three. We met friends (and sisters) Brenda and Becky Eden of Brenda

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-29974303102821680352011-08-26T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-26T08:00:06.636-07:00

sourceTonight, I'm going to see the movie The Help with a bunch of my best girl friends. Mom's Night Out (for all of us)! So excited! I've been anxiously waiting for this movie for months. I read the book a couple years ago on the recommendation of my pastor's wife and loved it; then read it again recently in anticipation of the movie and loved it even more. The narration of the book is

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-88755232206366027142011-08-25T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-25T08:00:00.254-07:00

sourceA friend of mine introduced me to Arbonne International products. They're a Swiss brand and they pride themselves in all-natural ingredients and no animal testing. :) I personally love their shower and bath stuff...the FC5 body and face line: the hydrating body cleanser, the hydrating facial cleanser. Both of which have strawberry extracts for a refreshing smell! If you haven't tried

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-25148568874204066422011-08-24T08:00:00.002-07:002011-08-24T08:00:07.146-07:00

For a long time, I've been blogstalking the voice of Mary at kidlit.com. She's a publishing agent with loads of good advice for YA and MG (middle grade) writers. Since she's in the thick of the publishing world, I love reading about her views on everything: from e-books, to the direction of the YA market, to what publishers look for, to MFA programs. It's a wide variety of things publishing, but

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-56600520024811004112011-08-23T08:00:00.002-07:002011-08-23T08:00:08.778-07:00

source Being the bookworms we are, my husband and I read somewhere that taking a date night regularly is healthy, especially after having a baby. So, we took that advice and went to Cafe Boa in Tempe last Friday night. We really liked the tastes of the Mesa location (but it is sadly closed), so we wanted to compare. We tried the appetizer platter (salumi and veggies and cornmeal pancake), the

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-52699683708430231652011-08-22T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-22T08:00:06.392-07:00

source Before my daughter was born, I asked my crafty and talented friend Becca Thongkham to design a birth announcement. I asked for something "sweet and simple" with a lambie (since I love them, and her nursery is decorated with them). Here's what she came up with! They're so cute. We also included a picture when we mailed them. :) *Did I ever mention that my daughter's name is Emma?

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-66279925703169809822011-08-21T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-21T08:00:08.704-07:00

source If you've read my blog this far, you know that I like supporting the local business. Here is something fun to do in the Valley. Mesa Arts Center (MAC) is gearing up for their 2011-2012 season of performances and productions. My husband and I try to go to at least two performances per year. We choose music; we've seen Wynton Marsalis, Lang Lang, Straight No Chaser. We choose plays; we're

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-33744613429742871402011-08-20T08:00:00.002-07:002011-08-20T08:00:06.472-07:00

sourceWell, I was supposed to go out an purchase one of these pretty laptops today...but sadly, this hit... source And not just one crown but two. So, my birthday present money is going into my mouth, along with novacaine, bloody gums, and bit of pain. Happy birthday to me. :( Hopefully, I'll be able to save up the money again for September or October.

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-91476981136474065902011-08-19T08:00:00.001-07:002011-08-19T08:00:11.183-07:00

source I've always been a huge fan of the TV show Charlie's Angels (the old 70s version). I would sometimes stay up late at college to watch the reruns on TV Land. :) I used to troll fansites to look at pictures and read up on trivia. I know all of the different combo casts. I know that there were only 5 seasons. I know that Jaclyn Smith was the only angel to last all 5 seasons. I know that

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-28577295982400843412011-08-18T08:00:00.002-07:002011-08-18T08:00:10.339-07:00

source Since I've gotten into knitting, I've realized there is a whole community obsessed with lambies as I am (although, not exactly for the same reasons). Anyway, it's a hobby I'm glad I learned because you can just pick it up whenever you're bored. I'm thinking about Christmas presents again and how to go about it. Such cute projects! And I'll have to add some baby items in the mix

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-76841335434332923682011-08-17T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-17T08:00:01.994-07:00

source My guilty pleasure: Entertainment Weekly. When it arrives in the mail, I sit in my corner of the couch and read the whole thing through in one sitting.

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-64771542019943278142011-08-16T08:00:00.002-07:002011-08-16T08:00:05.658-07:00

source Speaking of catalogues I look at over and over...and stores I could visit over and over. Paper Source is another store I love. While I don't craft everyday, or even scrapbook consistently anymore, I just stare at all of the pretty things Paper Source offers online. I find myself typing in the website randomly throughout the week. I love Paper Source's motto: Do something

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-9879570675858848662011-08-15T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-15T08:00:00.544-07:00

source Ever since we moved to a house, I've been obsessed with home catalogues...especially Pottery Barn and Crate & Barrel. I love looking at the fantastically designed rooms! With my husband finally out of school and most of the baby purchases out of the way, I've really started to narrow down my list of furniture must-haves. On my 101 in 1001 days list, I wrote a slew of house-related

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-32560514509722677682011-08-14T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-14T08:00:07.276-07:00

source Most Sundays, we're out in Chandler...usually for church...and we try to make it a point to stop at Lollicup Coffee & Tea for "boba" afterward. All my Asian friends know what boba is, but you might not. You might hear the term "boba" and think, Boba Fett...from Star Wars? Why do they want to meet him for lunch? Isn't he fictional? When people talk about boba, they're referring to a

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-83969011195035087772011-08-13T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-13T08:00:05.820-07:00

source A few years ago, my friend Christy introduced me to Shaklee Get Clean products. They're cleaning products that don't use chemicals, so they're safe for the environment. They boast that Jacque Cousteau used them aboard his ship and, when he was done cleaning, just dumped everything overboard into the ocean. While I'm not a crazy cleaner (meaning I can go weeks without wiping down,

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-55578497269565105012011-08-12T08:00:00.002-07:002011-08-12T08:00:12.993-07:00

source ...speaking of birthday discounts, Joe's Farm Grill in Gilbert (I've talked about them before, but they're worth another mention) offers $10 off your meal on your birthday. This means a burger with fries and half a milkshake...you have to pay for the other half. :) They have the yummiest burgers, and all of the ingredients are locally grown. Plus, the property is so family friendly:

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-82396319193803375202011-08-11T08:00:00.002-07:002011-08-11T08:00:06.339-07:00

sourceOne of the big reasons why I love birthday season is all of the discounts/free stuff you're offered. I don't use them all, but I like knowing that I'm entitled to them.For most of these places, I'm a subscriber to either an e-mail promotions list or am a credit card holder.I think the best one so far has been the Ann Taylor LOFT $15 off any purchase. It's not much, but last year I got a

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-13270975281889368622011-08-10T08:00:00.002-07:002011-09-07T07:55:02.265-07:00

source Have you heard of the Day Zero Project? Where you plan to do 101 things/goals in 1001 days? It's a pretty cool concept...along the lines of "where do you plan to be in five years?"...except it's much more concrete and spans half that time. I first started the project in March of 2008 and then my list expired and I never began another list. So, in honor of my actual birthday day, I

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-81807735836321029322011-08-09T08:00:00.001-07:002011-08-09T08:00:05.937-07:00

sourceI know the topic of "going natural" is weird. This post is about a specific type of going natural: washable cloth diapers...in fact, washable anything!At first, I was really doubtful about using washable diapers. I thought it would be like when my mom used them...those thick bumpy, wooly rectangular cloths that you safety pin on the sides. And then, one lady I knew told me that she used

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-46861583065130478812011-08-08T08:00:00.003-07:002011-08-08T08:00:17.449-07:00

sourceI'm pretty sure I've mentioned the importance of a writer's group. Even though they can be a little intimidating at first, they're just so useful, helpful, and...well, supportive. Of course, you have to find the right group for you. I've been in several groups and liked different parts of each. For me, I find that personality comes into play. I like when there are writers of varying levels

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-40876914483481754362011-08-07T08:00:00.001-07:002011-08-07T08:00:09.423-07:00

sourceWant a way to waste time? Get onto the Big Fish Games website!I don't remember when I first discovered Big Fish Games...it was a few years ago. And it has sucked up my time. Seriously. You can sit in front of the computer for hours! lol. You can download any game (except big file) and try it out for an hour. Most of the graphics aren't too taxing on your computer (unlike gamers' Call of

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-26885227392128590782011-08-06T08:00:00.001-07:002011-08-06T08:00:04.252-07:00

sourceSo, a lot of students (and teachers!) went back to school this week. I hope you all had a great first week! Meeting new people and reuniting with old friends. (Being married to a teacher sure puts school into perspective! So much prep! So much time!) Here's to the weekend (cheers!).Anyway, it reminded me of the really old TV show Magic School Bus. The show came out when I was a kid and I

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-88591528453262981012011-08-05T08:00:00.001-07:002011-08-05T08:00:05.523-07:00

sourceIn honor of my sister coming into town, today's topic is family. One thing that has really stood out the last two months is my family. I'm continually grateful for everything they did while we were adjusting to being new parents.They cooked. They bought diapers. They were available round the clock for emergency/panicked phone calls. They came over to hold the baby when she just didn't want

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-6582698189448765812011-08-04T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-04T08:00:15.406-07:00

sourceWhile I don't think a mother has time to complete a manuscript, I do think she can take advantage of any extra time she might have.My little cutie is at the 2-month mark, and we've established The Baby Whisperer's routine of Eat-Activity-Sleep-You time (E.A.S.Y.), and I've found myself with at least 4 hours/day of free time. The baby is asleep, so I have time to check my e-mail, surf the

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-25188973056433970172011-08-03T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-03T08:00:10.769-07:00

source(I think this picture is so nerdy...and I appreciate that since I'm a nerd myself.)My husband is constantly telling me to "write about it." Every time I complain about something or mention a story or article I've read. Write about it.I've heard the first lesson of writing is "write what you know." I think it's a pretty good place to start, but I also believe that (for me) writing is a way

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-48285266882128997622011-08-02T08:00:00.000-07:002011-08-02T08:00:11.713-07:00

sourceAfter my husband and I subscribed to Netflix (because we were getting a little cabin fever while our daughter was napping), we decided to make sure we watched movies we wouldn't normally watch. My husband found Arranged, a cute little independent film about two women who both have to go through the process of finding a mate by being arranged. They become friends through the process.

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-44029992682924417832011-08-01T10:00:00.000-07:002011-08-01T10:31:15.734-07:00

sourceToday is a momentous day...the first day of my birthday month. Yay! I love birthday month...I sometimes call it "birthday season." It's also a momentous birthday because I'll be joining the 30 Club for the first time.I'm a little apprehensive about turning 30 because it kinda answers all of those questions I had as a teen: Where will I be when I'm 30? What job will I have? Will I be

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-71138708133153782042011-07-19T13:47:00.002-07:002011-07-19T14:01:42.254-07:00

It's been a little over 7 weeks since the cutie above was born. So, the postpartum period is over and I am officially back to "normal," as normal can ever be with a new life to lord over (just kidding...I meant, to care for).While the adjustment period between birth and 7 weeks was ridiculously hard, I think it has just made this new phase all the more precious. Dare I say that it helped me not

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-59366491789296996162011-06-29T13:44:00.006-07:002011-06-29T14:04:36.435-07:00

During my last giant blog break (though not completely planned), I have been taking care of this little one. :)Yes, I gave birth to a swet baby girl in late May...and I can't believe she's already one month old.It's definitely been a bumpy ride, dealing with breastfeeding problems, weight gain problems, getting her to sleep...and, of course, adjusting to having a baby in the house while

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-70628017740532460452011-04-22T13:33:00.002-07:002011-04-22T13:37:14.513-07:00

Today is Good Friday (or Earth Day, if you prefer).And I feel incredibly blessed for this coming Easter.Happy Easter.

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-20967331673062445932011-04-13T12:55:00.003-07:002011-04-13T13:10:40.419-07:00

sourceI stumbled upon ABC Family's Make It or Break It on Hulu last year. I think I found it because I had been watching The Secret Life of the American Teenager and got so sick of the drama on that stupid show that I moved on to more drama on Make It. lol.Anyway, this show is nothing special. It's about 4 up-and-coming gymnasts in their gymnastics world and all of the drama that comes with

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-12333952433519747112011-04-07T14:37:00.005-07:002011-04-07T14:44:38.087-07:00

sourceSo, apparently, the internet is all abuzz about Prince William choosing not to wear a wedding band after he marries Kate. I don't really care either way what he does (it's his choice), but it reminded me of a silly story.When my husband was teaching junior high, he consistently wore his wedding band. And one day, he absentmindedly left it at home, which prompted some of the girl students

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-81596801303382635192011-03-17T11:39:00.003-07:002011-03-17T11:46:57.690-07:00

Yes, I watch Glee. Yes, I like the show.While I don't condone all of the messages Fox's Glee represents, I really really loved their original song they sang at regionals, "Loser Like Me."Check it out (if you can't play directly from the video above! Hopefully, you'll go around humming the tune to yourself. :)“Loser Like Me”Yeah, you may think that I’m a zeroBut, hey, everyone you wanna

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-23928967584003643152011-03-14T16:26:00.004-07:002011-03-14T16:34:20.596-07:00

sourceMy husband and I have always tried to read books together. And the best way we found was to read aloud to each other right before bed. (We're on True Grit now, if you're interested...a really great book to read aloud.) I've always believed that reading aloud helps your writing. I helps you with your voice (as in your story voice), your oration (as in public speaking), your story pacing,

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-76277494936396771722011-02-24T14:40:00.005-07:002011-03-07T11:24:26.621-07:00

sourceHave you bought your little bites of heaven?I was fortunate to encounter them in front of the grocery store this last week. I love Girl Scout cookie season!!!Unfortunately, I'm not too original because they told me my 2 favorite cookies (Thin Mints and Samoas) are their most popular. :P

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-13709111998682067522011-02-17T13:22:00.005-07:002011-02-24T14:39:50.958-07:00

sourceIn my past, I've always dreaded going to the dentist. I have lots of fillings/crowns to show for my dental anxiety.But, then I switched dentists and it hasn't been too bad.AND, recently, during my last few visits, the dentist upgraded his office...so much so that while the hygenist is cleaning my teeth, she puts on HULU for me to watch. Awesome, right? TV and relaxation to distract from

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-85078943926391921772011-02-14T12:02:00.006-07:002011-02-17T13:21:14.666-07:00

sourceLast weekend, my husband and I decided to try a "staycation," partially to celebrate Valentine's Day (early) and partially because it's been awhile since we took a vacation and partially we thought we needed a break from the daily grind.Staycation- noun -a. (also spelled stay-cation, stacation, or staykation) is a neologism for a period of time in which an individual or family stays at

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-15143112207893942812011-02-14T11:53:00.004-07:002011-02-14T12:01:11.107-07:00

sourceHappy Valentine's Day!!! :)I used to think Valentine's was so stupid...probably because I didn't have anyone to celebrate it with...but now I'm getting more and more warmed to the idea of celebrating love.This morning, on the way to work, I heard this beautiful song by Matthew West on KLOVE called "Wouldn't Change a Thing." The song was inspired by Brenda and Scott Franklin. Brenda wrote

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-12302717609086013012011-02-04T14:10:00.003-07:002011-02-14T12:02:41.772-07:00

sourceNow that we have been fully immersed in the Age of Technology, I find myself annoyed at it once in a while.The last bout of annoyance happened last week, when I was trying to finish up the last of my workday and I received a work-related praise e-mail. It was addressed to my whole group, naturally.However, what proceeded to happen after the first e-mail was a slew of reply-all e-mails back

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-54708359224529611952011-02-02T14:34:00.002-07:002011-02-03T12:37:25.800-07:00

sourceToday marks the beginning of the New Year for Asian countries, who go by a lunar calendar. Happy Chinese New Year! Or Kung Xi Fa Cai! It is the year of the Rabbit (from the Chinese zodiac).What does Year of the Rabbit mean? According to legends, it means we welcome a peaceful and quiet year of rest after all of the battles of last year (the year of the Tiger). We will make compromises

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-85113877686728410792011-01-28T12:32:00.002-07:002011-02-02T10:18:43.687-07:00

Happy Groundhog Day!If the weather today has any influence on the Groundhog, I'd say there are 6 more weeks of winter.Can you believe this frigid weather? Even in Arizona, it is reading 32 deg Fahrenheit!!! My blood was not prepared for the conditions this morning, while walking the short 100 meters from my car to my work building. BRRRRR!I hope you blizzard-people are surviving!

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-37140650029824143112011-01-28T12:31:00.002-07:002011-02-04T14:08:19.189-07:00

sourceLast weekend, I had the priviledge of attending a mini workshop at Tempe Public Library, hosted by the East Valley Nanowrimo group. The focus of the lesson: editing. Taught by romance writers Viki Lyn and Donna Hatch.Here are some points the two women highlighted.1. Adjectives and Adverbs - Less is more. Not every noun needs an adjective, or even a list of adjectives. And careful with

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-42065757273074065192011-01-26T15:28:00.006-07:002011-01-28T12:31:47.504-07:00

sourceThere's a movement (I think generated in the past decade) that highlights supporting your local businesses. I've slowly come to realize that this is a good idea. And I have moved even slower toward participating.But, lately, my husband and I have been trying out the local. We recently went to CIBO, an "urban pizzaria" in downtown Phoenix, on the recommendation of Check, Please! Arizona on

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-5134616152206105432011-01-24T09:38:00.004-07:002011-01-26T15:28:29.084-07:00

sourceAt my mom's house, she has 7 orange trees in her yard. Five of them are Navels. Have you ever eaten a naturally grown Navel orange? Do you know what you're missing?They are seedless. They are juicy. They are sweet morsels from heaven. And they're good for you! All that vitamin C and fiber! yum yum.I wait for these oranges to ripen every year (the blossom smell in March is one of my

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-79796083049709046452011-01-20T17:21:00.005-07:002011-01-24T09:38:11.871-07:00

I am so not technologically advanced. It's, like, five years after the iPhone has been released and now I'm mildly interested in buying one.Guess what our TV looks like? Like this...sourceOkay, maybe it's not this old, but it is still analog and we need a digital converter box to watch any of the local stations: PBS, NBC, CBS, ABC, etc. lolAnd, to top it all off, our cheapo $10 DVD player just

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-36755668808685075482011-01-18T09:47:00.006-07:002011-01-21T13:48:15.394-07:00

Just an FYI for all you aspiring writers out there...The annual Amazon Breakthrough Novelist Award contest is almost here! Submissions begin on Monday, January 24. Find the official rules here: https://www.createspace.com/abnaGood luck!(I won't be submitting anything, but I hope you do!)

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-19173423350961616652011-01-14T10:26:00.004-07:002011-01-20T17:14:48.095-07:00

My husband picked up this silly little game from the Lego Store; it's called Wild Wool. Since I love lambs, it was really fun to pretend they were real. Baaa!It's super silly, where you shear wool and try to avoid the big, bad wolf! :) The best part about it is that you can change the faces of the dice; hence, you can change the outcome of the game every time!Ah, Legos...

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-67140620342917563692011-01-14T10:18:00.005-07:002011-01-18T09:46:50.409-07:00

sourceI vow to force my future children to enroll in an Automotives class in high school.Why? Because last week, my husband's car battery died and he was helpless. He'd never taken Automotives in school.But I did. And I became the hero.We went to Costco, bought a new battery, went home, popped the hood, unscrewed the nuts holding the battery in place, took out the old battery, put in the new,

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-85192042297582071482011-01-12T14:19:00.005-07:002011-01-14T10:26:03.289-07:00

A tiny, innocent bug wanders the labyrinth in my former office, wondering when all of these towering skyscrapers were constructed. Wasn't it only last week when he was free to roam the desert expanse of brown carpet? How could monoliths the size of demon giants appear so suddenly? Why wasn't there any warning?The bug notes, I should tread carefully. Who knows what treachery lies in wait for

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-85194652243765856262011-01-12T14:00:00.004-07:002011-01-14T09:48:03.577-07:00

Dear Mr. Snow Bird*,I know it's a difficult world out there...one where you have to adjust from windy country roads in the Midwest to the helter skelter grid-system of city life in the Valley of Arizona. sourceWhere, in only the short span of a couple months (November-February), you have to learn--or relearn--how to navigate the Arizona roads, in which we operate on very strict rules and drive *

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-21795709032073971662011-01-09T20:53:00.005-07:002011-01-12T14:00:12.219-07:00

(L to R: Esther, Elizabeth, me, NoNo) So...let's talk some personal stuff! :) I'm determined to keep to my New Year's resolutions and blog more about myself. Here goes...Over the Christmas break, everyone from out of town comes home to Arizona, which makes the holidays so exciting. It's an endless friend frenzy, making plans to meet up and eating like no other. Seriously, we pig out. :P I think

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-34339609366846888772011-01-07T08:54:00.006-07:002011-01-14T10:00:18.576-07:00

sourceLast Thursday, my family decided to go see the amazing child prodigy piano player from China: Lang Lang. (Though he's 27 now, but he's still considered a musical genius.)I used to play the piano and took lessons for many years (ahem, twelve). And while I don't get around to playing myself anymore, I still really appreciate live piano concerts. There is something about getting gussied up

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-49639227879494841112011-01-07T07:56:00.005-07:002011-01-14T10:00:07.054-07:00

sourceWhen I was in college, I got hooked on Friends. I know quite a bit of trivia (and, if we were playing the Scene It Friends game, I'd totally beat you). lol.Anyway, remember this episode, where Phoebe's smoke alarm won't stop chirping and she can't sleep, so she finally gets fed up and smashes it to bits? That's what I felt like doing this morning...at 4am.Luckily, I had a pair of

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-35229378573819727862011-01-06T09:07:00.003-07:002011-01-14T09:59:47.514-07:00

sourceOn Monday night, my husband and I went out to run some errands and, when we got home, we realized that all of the other houses in our neighborhood had either 1) taken down their Christmas lights or 2) they no longer turned on their Christmas lights.Then, we got to our house, where the lights are on a timer and we hadn't changed the settings. So, they sat, brightly lit and happy, making our

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-85729190957553825732011-01-04T15:02:00.005-07:002011-01-07T09:01:36.676-07:00

sourceWell, it is the first week of the new year and I am back at my day job and ready to go. As I said on my Facebook status yesterday, I am eager to see this 2011 year through. :) Many many changes are coming and I hope to meet them with pleasure.So, I don't have a ton of goals for this year, but I have a couple that really impact my authorship and you.1. I am rearing to finish my book (

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-66272538069076372842010-12-25T16:01:00.005-07:002010-12-25T16:05:27.618-07:00

(This is part of a card I made. It's actually one of my favorite designs.)Just wanted to wish you and your families a very happy Christmas! Love,Karen

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-28915502707143508562010-12-22T10:13:00.003-07:002010-12-22T10:18:34.206-07:00

sourceAttention: a new poll/survey is available for voting on the sidebar! :) Just fyi, the question has a little something to do with my sequel. :DThe results of the old survey:Which character are you most like (from The Prophecy Box)?50% said Anna25% said Robin25% said FerdinandLet's hope that you have as much fun with that survey as this one!

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-11408231319466957792010-12-22T10:03:00.004-07:002011-01-14T09:59:23.837-07:00

sourceWith Christmas just around the corner (and my gift shopping not quite done), I was looking around for fun, unique Christmas gifts for people who have careers and can afford to buy things on their own. I stumbled across Outrageous Olive Oils in Scottsdale, AZ, in my monthly Yelp newsletter.My reaction: Olive oil? Yummy and healthy and usable! Olive oils with unique flavors? Even more

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-42013910102127342962010-12-22T09:48:00.003-07:002011-01-14T09:59:11.640-07:00

sourceJust the word "Christmas" calls for Christmas cookies, right? :) Last weekend, I went to a cookie exchange party: where everyone bakes 2 dozen cookies and you take a selection of all of the cookies home. So fun, by the way, if you want a reason to gather together your friends.I was a little tired of the tried-and-true chocolate chip (though, I still love it) and I wanted to make

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-61969793261824182452010-12-16T14:19:00.003-07:002010-12-16T14:26:42.315-07:00

source Last night, my husband and I went to see Tangled, the newest Disney princess movie based on the Grimms' fairy tale Rapunzel. I loved it! It has that old-time princess movie feel of Beauty and the Beast and Little Mermaid, with an updated heroine for our modern age. (She's fiesty and smart and doesn't need rescuing.) The movie took the basic story and twisted it Disney-style, added a

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-14153105874637894262010-12-07T16:01:00.008-07:002010-12-16T14:15:59.509-07:00

I've put up the Christmas tree and the lights and it's really starting to feel festive and holiday-ish around the house. Which always puts me in the mood to think about Christmas gifts.I'm a seasonal knitter. Meaning, I only knit when I feel the need to. LOL. It's mostly around the winter time, because who can think about wool when it's 100+ degrees outside?I didn't knit any Christmas gifts last

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-1221594722927702252010-12-07T15:42:00.004-07:002010-12-07T16:01:20.478-07:00

I first found out about The Hunger Games trilogy from Entertainment Weekly because they kept projecting possible actors for the main characters. And then, after three, yes, THREE (how lame is that? lol), different EWs talking about it, I finally decided to check it out. After all, they claimed it was the best YA trend-setting novel since Twilight. And since I'm not a big fan of vampires (and

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-33026169541819715022010-12-07T15:23:00.003-07:002011-01-14T09:58:53.248-07:00

sourceI had all these grand designs about writing and blogging the past week, and then I got sick and had to blow my nose every two minutes (my voice, it is still on the mend, fyi).As I was wallowing in mucus and snot, I watched some movies at home...and realized that, in adventure movies, the hero or heroine never gets sick! Wounded, yes, but never blasted with a cold that renders them totally

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-6910539483438769332010-11-25T20:06:00.005-07:002011-01-14T10:18:48.833-07:00

sourceI realize it's been over 2 months since I posted...and I feel bad. But! I can say that I have been productive, somewhat. Though I haven't worked on my book for a while, and I let NaNoWriMo pass without participating, and I watched WAY too much TV, I have good news. 1. I began teaching a writing class. I never thought I would teach, since I'm not qualified at all. But it's been a really

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-22602283798931720462010-09-19T12:54:00.003-07:002010-09-19T13:25:40.638-07:00

source Recently, I joined two writers' groups. (I can never remember if the apostrophe is before of after the 's'...oh well.) I've been a part of writers' groups off and on throughout my "writing career." All of them have different dynamics and all of them have been beneficial in one way or another. I think writers' groups are really good for budding/aspiring writers. It helps you know what

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-64059352664784464662010-09-14T16:10:00.003-07:002010-09-14T16:13:40.255-07:00

So, I have to admit that the last week or so, I've been furiously knitting. (Another phase of distraction, clearly.) I've made two hats and one mitten. :) I'm thinking about making socks next. Anyway, hopefully this all points to finishing Christmas gifts super early and then having the rest of the holidays to write write write. My goal is still November. Eeek! Coming up fast.

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-40883682328718739992010-09-04T15:21:00.006-07:002011-01-14T09:57:18.302-07:00

I got into knitting a couple of years ago and, for some reason, I'm really thinking about it today. ...though it is like 108 degrees Fahrenheit outside and I'm dreading going out to run errands later this afternoon. Anyway, today, I have cloches on the mind: sourceAren't they cute? I'm thinking about making one out of yarn. I just need to choose a color...kelly green? navy blue? amethyst

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-74455280105148266382010-09-03T13:09:00.005-07:002010-09-03T13:23:17.182-07:00

The little cogs in my brain are turning and turning as I sit in front of the computer on page 132* in my Word document. Twist! source Anyway, I saw these cute little twine mushrooms in a blog that I stalk (they would go perfectly in my craft room...but I swore not to buy any more craft items this year) and put aside the thought that they are so ridiculously cute and instead thought about how each

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-5773532196670775822010-08-10T09:40:00.003-07:002011-01-14T09:57:04.359-07:00

sourceToday is my birthday. Happy Birthday to me. :)

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-50931052522348107042010-08-04T10:05:00.004-07:002010-09-04T15:21:05.503-07:00

I admit, I didn't really generate interest in Percy Jackson until the movie came out. And you know, I like to read the book before I see a movie adaptation. So, I did. It was a very entertaining and fast (it can be done in one sitting) read. I was impressed with how Rick Riordan weaved the Greek myths into real life. Many kudos for his creativity. For example, how Aunt Em's (Medusa's) garden

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-79904609806198545892010-07-29T16:18:00.006-07:002011-01-14T09:56:46.365-07:00

Part of the reason why I was super excited to vacation to Europe was because I wanted to do research for my sequel...how old architecture looks in person and how the atmosphere of an old city feels. So, I wanted to start a series of posts about what I learned in Europe, concentrating on setting.Weather totally affects your mood.Paris was HOT and HUMID. Bad combination.Of course, we were still

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-40092648848106733372010-07-29T16:14:00.005-07:002011-01-14T09:56:36.809-07:00

Part of the reason why I was super excited to vacation to Europe was because I wanted to do research for my sequel...how old architecture looks in person and how the atmosphere of an old city feels. So, I wanted to start a series of posts about what I learned in Europe, concentrating on setting.This is the inside of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. It is old. It is beautiful. It emits a holy

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-19426587129872810702010-07-29T16:08:00.007-07:002011-01-14T09:56:27.937-07:00

Part of the reason why I was super excited to vacation to Europe was because I wanted to do research for my sequel...how old architecture looks in person and how the atmosphere of an old city feels. So, I wanted to start a series of posts about what I learned in Europe, concentrating on setting.Old-style travel is not as glamorous as I imagined.Admittedly, we were not on the famed Orient Express,

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-60904068058937334672010-07-29T15:51:00.008-07:002011-01-14T09:56:16.274-07:00

Part of the reason why I was super excited to vacation to Europe was because I wanted to do research for my sequel...how old architecture looks in person and how the atmosphere of an old city feels. So, I wanted to start a series of posts about what I learned in Europe, concentrating on setting.It seems that every city has a fresh food market place. You walk around, BAM, you find one.Now, I'm

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-89462748271441384732010-07-22T09:39:00.004-07:002011-01-14T09:56:04.845-07:00

Part of the reason why I was super excited to vacation to Europe was because I wanted to do research for my sequel...how old architecture looks in person and how the atmosphere of an old city feels. I mean, I had the chance to visit tiny little villages with cobblestone streets! And while all of this can be found through other people's pictures online, it's a different feel when you actually

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-75889993339910375212010-07-19T10:49:00.005-07:002010-07-19T11:01:19.096-07:00

Back on June 1, I had the priveledge of speaking to Mrs. Sung's 5th grade class at Chandler Traditional Academy - Independence Campus about my book.Mrs. Sung and I are good friends and so it was quite fun not only to see her classroom but also to meet her students!Only a few students had read my book before I came, but all were very enthusiastic about it, asking questions and easing my

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-37222519598111062312010-07-19T10:23:00.006-07:002011-01-14T09:55:25.808-07:00

So, when I started this blog, I promised myself that I wouldn't stop writing in it. And it's been almost exactly 2 months and I've done exactly that. Shame on me.I guess I owe you a reason (or reasons) why I haven't blogged for 2 months. My list of excuses:1) My sister-in-law got married on June 19. The preceeding month to the wedding was a whirlwind of craft projects, dress alterations,

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-51099064372920763112010-05-23T13:54:00.004-07:002011-01-14T09:54:49.224-07:00

source Remember earlier in the year when I made a few belated New Year's resolutions? Well, that plan when down the drain after a about a week and a half. hahaha.My new plan to get some exercise in my life is this: the One Hundred Push-up Plan. So far, I'm on day 2 and it's going pretty well. As well as two day's worth of push-ups can feel. lol... It's a slow ramp-up with lots of rest breaks

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-35055557242780487222010-05-18T22:25:00.003-07:002010-05-18T22:37:01.765-07:00

sourceI saw this cute little tote on a design blog I follow (OrangeBeautiful from Chicago).Recently, OrangeBeautiful opened a new little shop and they had these bags from DrikaB (on Etsy) on display.I'm always on the hunt for a cute tote bag...though most of the time I never buy. I admire people at the mall as they saunter fashionably by with their cute totes. I think totes are so versatile.

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-26586419110360314712010-05-18T22:13:00.005-07:002010-05-18T22:25:15.547-07:00

sourceI'm planning a vacation to Europe this summer and have been searching endlessly for a comfortable, yet slightly fashionable, shoe.I remember walking a ton in Taiwan and I know that Europe will be no different. However, I don't want to bring sneakers because they're bulky and they just don't look very dressy. (My uncle has a theory that you should always dress nicely when traveling abroad

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-7934398796419206732010-05-14T10:59:00.004-07:002010-05-14T11:24:14.821-07:00

sourceIt is on my goal list of 101 in 1001 days project: to read the Emily trilogy by L.M. Montgomery. I absolutely *love* the Anne series and own all 8 books (Anne of the Island is my favorite).Anyway, I've only progressed to the 2nd book in the Emily series, but I made myself devour it slowly and thoughtfully. It is so beautiful and yet the plot is very simple.In Emily Climbs, it picks up from

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-33670875780885877282010-05-14T10:45:00.003-07:002010-05-14T10:58:53.868-07:00

sourceLately, I've been thinking about the books I love and the staying power they have.There is something to be said of the quality of writing of these books. For example, every girl has read Little Women, Anne of Green Gables, and Pride and Prejudice. Of course, there are numerous other great books for girls, but these three are staples in a girl's reading development.And it made me ask, "

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-9373329148645204872010-05-05T14:42:00.002-07:002010-05-05T14:55:00.319-07:00

source In the aftermath of not getting through to semi-final round of the ABNA contest, I finally summoned the courage to read my Publisher's Weekly reviewer's notes...which bummed me out even more. seriously harsh. So, though I've had little moments of high-flying happiness, I'm still wading more in the shallow end of the feeling-blue pool...maybe up to my armpits as I squat (and pout) in the

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6498043335768534947.post-39697197471704170212010-05-05T14:11:00.006-07:002011-01-14T09:54:27.499-07:00

source Okay, so that's a slight exaggeration, I'm not completely obsessed, as in I think about it every day, every waking moment of my life. I don't...and I'm happy I don't, since that year of my life is definitely over. But still, I do admit I like looking at the pretty frilly things (like the hair pin flowers above from Handle & Spout) that are associated with the word "wedding." I like

Karen Chowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12689963173099766440noreply@blogger.com1