Tag Archives: Friends

03.01.19
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Writing Prompt #199: Romantic Movies (Day 1)

I was inspired to do this challenge by Kristian! Kristian is the wonderful author of Life Lessons Around The Dinner Table.

Here’s the link to Kristian’s first post:

Thanks, Kristian, for the inspiration!

Let’s get started!

Casablanca (1942)

Image result for casablanca poster

Confession: I didn’t see this movie in full until I was a junior in high school. As part of our history class, our teacher, Mrs. Cofield, showed it to all of her classes when we started studying World War II. And what a movie to show!

This is truly a classic film. Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman are fabulous on screen.

Based on a unproduced stage play called Everybody Comes to Rick’s, it had its world premiere in New York City on November 26, 1942. It exceeded expectations. The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, and went on to win Oscars for Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Picture.

I love “As Time Goes By.” And the classic quotes!

Come back tomorrow for a new movie!

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

02.27.19
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Writing Prompt #196: February WIP Challenge – “Out to Sea”

WIP Character Challenge February Out to Sea

Image Credit: Didi Oviatt

Here’s the link to Didi’s challenge post:

After Camp ended in early August, Kristin and Brennan felt adrift. Kristin went home to Kansas, and Brennan headed back to Texas. Although their time at Camp hadn’t always been sunshine and roses, the two knew they had a connection. Neither of them quite knew what to make of their experiences, but they’d promised to stay in touch via text.

On August 12th, Kristin’s phone buzzed early.

Good morning, K. I hope there’s sunshine in Kansas today. It’s raining here in Corpus Christi. I wish you were here to brighten my day. Love, B

Kristin smiled, and rolled over on her stomach. She waited a few minutes to text him back. After Camp, and the nasty fight they had at the end, she was more cautious with her words.

Hey, B. Good morning. There’s a beautiful sunrise outside my window. I’m sorry it’s raining. I hope it clears up soon. Any plans for today? I think I’ll be going back-to-school shopping soon. Junior year! Love, K

Brennan smiled. Despite wanting to stay in touch with Kristin, what happened at the end of Camp was hard to stomach. They’d fallen head over heels for each other, or that’s what Brennan had thought. He could tell Kristin was less impulsive now, more careful with her words and actions. Still, that fight was a looming dark cloud over them. Being states away certainly didn’t help, either.

Brennan longed to be with her again. Not necessarily physically, but be in her presence. He wanted to push that dark cloud away, calm the stormy sea. But, he felt like a ship passing in the night. He needed an anchor, or else he felt he would just drift along, aimlessly.

His phone buzzed a few minutes later, getting him out of his funk.

Hey, dude. Wanna catch some waves later?

Brennan laughed aloud. His best friend, Adam, was up for surfing any time, no matter the weather. Adam was the only person that Brennan had told about his experiences at Camp.

Sure, Adam. That sounds great. What time?

Brennan exchanged a few more texts with Adam, and then invited Rafael and Mike to tag along. Mike had a Jeep Wrangler, which was the popular beach vehicle of the group.

About two hours later, the rain lessened, and the sun was a muted orb behind the clouds. Brennan heard Mike honk as he grabbed his board and a few essentials. Brennan’s mom caught him at the door.

“I love you, Brennan. Be safe. I want you back home before dinner. Text me when you’re on your way home. Got it?”

Brennan looped an arm around his mom. “No worries, Mom. I love you, too.”

Kristin was distracted by back-to-school shopping for several hours, and missed Brennan’s photo with his surfing buddies.

At 4:45 p.m., a sudden storm exploded off-shore. Brennan knew he needed to be heading home soon, but Mike convinced him to stay in the water for 15 more minutes.

The lifeguards blew their whistles in unison. Rafael and Adam headed in. Brennan caught one more wave. As he turned, Brennan saw a flash of lightning, and Mike’s head.

“Mike! Get out of the water! Now!”

All three guys cupped their hands around their mouths and yelled the same command, over and over. It started to rain. Thunder followed, and the rain began coming down in sheets. The head lifeguard jumped off his station and dashed toward them.

“Hey! You guys need to get to shelter. Now.”

Brennan protested. “But – Our friend! Mike! He’s still out there. Alone.”

“I’ll find him. You guys get under cover. This is my job.”

The three guys scrambled to the safety of the beach bathrooms, a solid concrete block building about 500 yards from the shoreline.

Brennan was terrified. He knew the lifeguard was fully capable of rescuing Mike, but it was still scary. They huddled in the bathroom, where Rafael said a quick prayer. Adam tried to calm their nerves, to no avail.

As the thunder roared and lightning flashed, Brennan needed a distraction. He finally saw Kristin’s text, the response to his photo.

So cool! I hope you have fun. Wish I was there! Do you want to FaceTime later? Love, K

Brennan smiled, then re-focused. “I hope they find Mike.”

Adam wrapped his arms around his friends’ shoulders. “I know they will.”

“We need EMS!”

They jumped. Rafael scrambled up toward the windows near the ceiling. “Hey, guys! Mike’s alive!”

Brennan slumped to the floor. Adam squeezes his shoulder. “It’s good news. Mike’s gonna be okay. He’s getting help.”

Brennan shook his head. “All four of us could have been out there. It’s weird. It feels surreal.”

Rafael nodded. “We’re lucky. Mike, especially.” He whispered another prayer, this time it was one of thanks.

Adam helped Brennan off the floor. “Come on. Let’s see where Mike went. And you should call your mom.”

Brennan nodded, relief washing over him. Before dialing home, he texted Kristin.

Hey, K. Boy, do I have a story for you. FaceTime at 7:30? Love, B

With shaking hands, he dialed home. He stuttered as he told his mom what happened. He asked to go to the hospital. Mom said yes and that she would meet them there.

“I’m so glad you’re okay. Be safe. See you soon. I love you.”

“I love you, too, Mom. Thank you. You’re my anchor.”

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

02.20.19
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Awesome Authors #18: Sarah Dessen

Sarah Dessen Quote

Image Credit: Quotefancy

I’m long overdue for an Awesome Authors post.

I inhaled Sarah Dessen’s books when I was in high school and college.

Dessen was born in June 1970 in Evanston, Illinois. Her parents, Alan and Cynthia, taught classicism and Shakespearean literature at the University of North Carolina.

When she was 15, Dessen became involved with a 21-year-old man. She realized it was a bad idea, and cut ties shortly thereafter. In an interview, she said she took the blame for the situation and relationship for years afterward. When she herself turned 21, she made a point to look at teens and ask herself whether or not she wanted to hang out with them, or even date one. The answer, she said, “was always a flat, immediate no. They were kids. I was an adult. End of story.”

She first attended Greensboro College in Greensboro, North Carolina. She dropped out quickly to enroll in the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. She graduated with the highest honors in Creative Writing.

While launching her writing career, Dessen worked as a waitress at a restaurant called Flying Burrito. Her first book, That Summer, was published in 1996.

The 2003 movie How to Deal, starring Mandy Moore and Allison Janney, was based on Dessen’s books That Summer and Someone Like You.

Several of her novels have been named the American Library Association’s (ALA) “Best Fiction for Young Adults” selection. Along for the Ride (2010) made the New York Times Best Sellers List.

In 2017, Dessen received the Margaret A. Edwards Award as a result of seven of her novels, published between 2000 and 2011. Her newest book is Once and for All (2017).

Just Listen (2006)

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Image Credit: Wikipedia

I’m pretty sure this is the first book of Dessen’s I remember reading, although I’m not 100 percent sure.

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Lock and Key (2008)

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Image Credit: Wikipedia

As someone who has struggled all her life to ask for help, this one cut deep.

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That Summer (1996)

Image result for that summer book

Image Credit: Goodreads

I think I’ve read this? I’m not sure. This is Dessen’s first novel.

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Dreamland (2000)

Dreamland (Dessen novel).jpg

Image Credit: Wikipedia

I passed by this book so many times at the library, and then once I finished either Just Listen or Lock and Key, I knew I needed to read it.

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This Lullaby (2002)

This Lullaby.jpg

Image Credit: Wikipedia

I remember this one, since having faith and learning to leap is something I’ve worked on for years. The cover also caught my eye at the library.

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Along for the Ride (2009)

Image result for along for the ride book

Image Credit: Goodreads

I don’t remember reading this one, but I know I want to.

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Keeping The Moon (1999)

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Image Credit: Wikipedia

If I have read this, it was early on. I distinctly remember the cover, and I know I saw it on the library shelves. Regardless, I do want to pick it up and re-read it.

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Saint Anything (2015)

Image result for saint anything book

Image Credit: Goodreads

This is one I definitely haven’t read. I’m pretty sure the last new release I read was Lock and Key.

What about you? Have you read any of Sarah Dessen’s works? Have you seen How to Deal?

Until the next headline, Laura Beth  🙂

01.05.19
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Writing Prompt #157: “‘Celebration Party’ January WIP Writing Challenge!”

celebration party

Image found on Didi Oviatt’s blog.

If you haven’t checked out Didi Oviatt’s AWESOME, and, frankly, kick-ass blog, do it!

Here’s the link to her challenge post:

Before I got to the end of Didi’s post, I knew which characters I wanted to use!

So, without further ado, please enjoy my “Celebration Party” scene!

Fireworks weren’t illegal to purchase in Maine. Every summer, like clockwork, the camp counselors were able to fill their cars and SUVs at the ready. The closest firework stand to Camp was only ten minutes away.

Not everyone approved of the idea, however. Emily, the Camp nurse, was naturally uneasy. Belinda Barnes, the Camp director, never thought it was the best idea. But, as long as everything was done safely, that’s all she cared about.

The counselors wanted the fireworks to be a complete surprise. Most summers, the Bangor fireworks spectacular could be witnessed in full from certain areas of Camp. Sadly, this year’s spectacular had been cancelled due to severe thunderstorms in the area – The first cancellation in quite a few summers. Camp’s atmosphere on Independence Day was just as stormy, with disappointed and grumpy campers. It had rained and stormed five out of the last six days, and rainy-day activities were running out of steam. So was a lot of people’s patience.

July 6th dawned sunny and beautiful, and everyone’s spirits naturally lifted. The day was full of lake activities, nature hikes, and a bit of mischief. Kristin and Brennan bent the rules a little, and stole away to their secluded picnic table spot for some hanky-panky. Counselors Andy and Melissa almost went skinny-dipping in the lake. And Ashley and Stephanie enjoyed their first true romantic moment together, which felt like fireworks to both of them.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, one of the most spectacular sunsets stretched out across the sky. Everyone was in awe, which gave Andy, Melissa, and a few other counselors enough time to set up the surprise.

The crickets started chirping, and everyone tuned in to the bullfrogs along the lake. They knew a surprise was being revealed, and everyone waited with bated breath.

Andy and Melissa shared another kiss right before the fireworks show was about to begin. All safety measures were reviewed and checked. The spot along the lake shore was perfect, and they couldn’t wait to see the camper’s faces light up.

Andy, the oldest counselor, was in charge. The first three fireworks were disappointing duds. But, Emily, of all people, kept the crowd hyped. The fourth firework finally shot off with a brilliant burst, and hearing the crowd’s cheers and whistles made it all worth it.

Melissa, right by Andy’s side, winked. “Let’s give them the best show ever.”

Andy nodded. The next 30 minutes felt like Camp had their own fireworks spectacular. Fireworks of every shape, size, and color were shot off in rapid succession. The noise across the lake only increased, and the counselors felt incredible. It was a great celebration all its own.

Minutes after the grand finale, through the hazy smoke the counselors could still hear the cheers and whistles. Kristin and Brennan were dancing in ankle-deep water of the lake, and so were Andy and Melissa. Ashley and Stephanie shared a kiss, not caring who saw. Everyone was celebrating in their own way, and it felt great. The atmosphere of Camp that night turned completely around. All thanks to roughly $1,000 of fireworks.

So, there you have it!

Thanks, Didi! Looking forward to February’s challenge!

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

12.17.18
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Getting Personal #151: “The Drain House, Drain, Oregon” (Reblogged)

Image Credit: Just Wunderlust

I love sharing inspiring posts from Just Wunderlust. The photos are incredible!

I’ve been thinking of Oregon a lot recently. Mainly because my best friend, Melissa, and another friend, Brittany, live there. But, I’m in awe of the beauty of the state. This photo is no exception.

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Seeing the mist and the trees behind this house makes me think of the story I wrote and illustrated in fifth grade. I called it “Electro Girl,” and I set it in the forests/mountains of Oregon. It’s definitely writing from my 10-year-old self, but seeing this photo makes me think of that story. Also, that story was recognized as a Young Authors book, and going to the ceremony and reception that year was where I got to know and love Melissa!

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The colors of the house make me smile, too. It looks like a doll’s house.

I did some research, and learned that Drain is located in Douglas County, in the southwestern part of the state. The last population count, in 2017, was 1,169. The town is named after town founder and politician Charles J. Drain. It’s a prominent example of Queen Anne style architecture. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on December 12, 1978.

What do you see when you look at this photo? Let me know your thoughts in the comments. Have a great week!

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

08.31.18
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Writing Prompt #152: LB and K’s Blockbuster Challenge – Day 31

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Welcome back!

Day 31 – Favorite blockbuster flop? (Film that should have been a blockbuster hit, but didn’t make it)?

  • The Postman (1997) – I saw this movie on TV the last time we went to the farm. It was a really interesting dystopian look, but it flopped, hard. I’ve always been a Kevin Costner fan, too.
  • Stealth (2005) – I think I saw this in theaters? I can’t remember. Regardless, I was surprised to see how badly it did at the box office.
  • Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018) – While not a true flop, it didn’t make nearly as much money as many expected. People gave it so much hate. We liked it!

What about you? What’s your favorite blockbuster flop?

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

08.29.18
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Writing Prompt #150: LB and K’s Blockbuster Challenge – Day 29

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Welcome back!

Day 29 – What TV show should have its own movie?

  • 30 Rock (2006-2013) – Al and I binge-watched the show for several months. It would be a great movie!

What about you? What TV show should have its own movie?

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂

08.28.18
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Writing Prompt #149: LB and K’s Blockbuster Challenge – Day 28

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Welcome back!

Day 28 – Your guilty pleasure movie?

  • Dirty Dancing (1987) – I didn’t see it until I was in college, but I love it. I’ve also been to Mountain Lake in Virginia, where part of the film was shot.

What about you? What’s your guilty pleasure movie?

Until the next headline, Laura Beth 🙂