Dang. I'm thinking "Road Trip". (With a little air travel mixed in.) ;)
Monday, June 10, 2013
Scotsman.com: Outlander is Scotland's Game of Thrones
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Outlander Starz Series Update from Diana Gabaldon
"OK, a slight correction: the production people tell me that the sixteen episodes are all for the _first_ season. (And if all goes well with that...they then might get a second season. This is kind of how television works, you know?)
Many thanks for your delight and enthusiasm! I'm sure with support from you, the show will do just fine.
As for the "oh, they'll RUIN it/oh,I can't stand to watch/oh, it'll be cheap and cheesy/oh, they're sure to mess up the characters/destroy the storyline, etc., etc., etc."...comments, you guys are of course welcome to your opinions, too--but feel free to curb your enthusiasm at any time.
I am NOT writing this show. I am not CASTING this show. I do not have CONTROL over this show. (I do have input, and the production people are very kind about asking my opinion on things. This does not mean they have a legal obligation to take it.
You know why not? Because I don't want to. I'm a novelist, not a screen-writer. I'm a naturally solitary writer--I don't even have research assistants; my books are mine alone. Screen-writing, by contrast, is an intensely collaborative business.
Scripts go through dozens (literally) of iterations, being worked on by any number of people--then reworked by other people, over and over. A new director (for a show or an episode) can insist on a new direction or changes; an influential actor can ask for changes. Multiple writers means constant--and I do mean constant--collaboration.
I'm not a team player. (Ask anybody.
I would also probably not be good at it, whereas I have a good deal of faith in the very experienced and talented people who _are_ doing it. I saw the pilot script and thought it was an amazingly good adaptation (by marked contrast to various film scripts I've seen over the years
So, you know....chill.
I work with a film production company. And as someone who has collaborated on script revisions, I can tell you that Diana is one thousand percent correct about what screenwriters do. It's a never-ending process. I helped my partner revise a script two years ago. We went start to finish - word for painstaking word - multiple times...then went back over many scenes a zillion times. And this was all before pre-production. The script was then changed by producers during production. Things were tweaked on set. Now - long after we went into post-production - we are STILL changing scenes...deleting scenes...moving scenes around...adding scenes that had been cut. Even changing music. The film is "finished" (it's never really finished)...yet cutting just one word from one sentence can have a massive impact on the feel of a scene.
So basically...as I said last night...we all want to prepare ourselves for the fact that things are NOT going to be exactly as we read them.
If you are happy this series is being adapted for TV...then sit back, strap in, hold on, and wait for the outcome. If your expectations aren't unreachable, you might just be pleased.
If you are NOT happy this series is being adapted for TV; don't watch. It's that simple.
But for the love of ALL that's holy in this world, let's not BITCH about it for the next year...and let's definitely not be rude/snotty/snarky to - or about - each other about it. It is SO NOT WORTH IT. The series is NOT going to be exactly like the book. Hopefully close, as Diana said...but not exact.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Outlander on Starz: The Ron Moore Writer's Room...Explained
What I'm finding interesting about this article is the mention of the Writers's Room and what these people have worked on in the past. Take a look!
Diana Gabaldon: Author Breakfast Interview at BookExpo America
Diana Gabaldon Announces Starz Series at BookExpo America
Just in case you didn't get to see Diana make the announcement, here it is, in all its glory. Scroll to 51:23 to see her speak (and try to find your happy place while Chris Matthews is trying to pronounce her name.)
LOL It wasn't even that bad...but we're so protective as fans, aren't we?
Deadline Article about OUTLANDER on STARZ
Check out THIS very cool article about the upcoming Outlander series on Starz.
It's HAPPENING, Y'ALL.
It's HAPPENING, Y'ALL.
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Outlander on Starz in Spring 2014?!
"Dear All,
I just watched the live stream of BEA and Diana had some exicitn gnews to share:
She said she has signed the contract to the TV series last night, they'll probably start filming in September this year (no, she hasn't any idea who will be cast) and the pilot will probably air in spring 2014."
Um...wow.
Monday, May 27, 2013
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Dear Claire, SHUT IT! Love, Tom
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| Just a man...and his Kindle (and his Dairy Queen) on a Sunday afternoon. |
Although he's enjoying the book BIG time, this little situation (snicker) has done nothing to soften Tom's feelings about Claire! Listen to what he said:
"Claire has the inability to see anybody else's opinion or understand their side of the argument because she knows, in her head, and in her heart, that she's right about everything. She's so self-centered and arrogant. She just can't imagine her being wrong. She just can't imagine somebody else having an opinion that would explain the situation, because in her head, she's right...all the time. Claire is never at fault. She has started problems...she's gotten men killed...she got that ship burned down...and never, ever once did she ever sit down and assess blame to herself. It's always someone else's fault."
YOWSA!
It's just so awesome to discuss different aspects of the series with new readers. I fear Tom may never soften toward Claire...but there will be plenty of entertaining discussion along the way!
Monday, May 13, 2013
Sunday, May 12, 2013
SoozShop is OPEN on Etsy
Direct from Sooz, MOP friend and maker of GORGEOUS shirts and jewelry:
By popular demand, new Outlander inspired machine embroidery designs are now available for order on Etsy. These are stitched directly onto 100% cotton casual shirts, of a size and color of your choosing. Two of the designs include a leading letter in a Jacobean thistle motif followed by a font verra similar to that used on the Outlander books. The fifth incorporates a Celtic knot design in tone on tone colors along with the popular "Keep Calm and..." slogan.
In addition to the embroidery design options, there are some jewelry pieces now offered. Each is a unique creation and depict the names of each of the books in the Series along with a few surprise references. Other designs are in the creation process. An example of one of the 12 offered looks like this:
All of these can be found on Etsy (www.etsy.com) in a shop titled "SoozShop" for those interested. My idea for designing these is to be able wear the love of the series so you can share it with those that stop to ask.......Please stop by the Shop if you're intrigued.
By popular demand, new Outlander inspired machine embroidery designs are now available for order on Etsy. These are stitched directly onto 100% cotton casual shirts, of a size and color of your choosing. Two of the designs include a leading letter in a Jacobean thistle motif followed by a font verra similar to that used on the Outlander books. The fifth incorporates a Celtic knot design in tone on tone colors along with the popular "Keep Calm and..." slogan.
Here are the designs:
In addition to the embroidery design options, there are some jewelry pieces now offered. Each is a unique creation and depict the names of each of the books in the Series along with a few surprise references. Other designs are in the creation process. An example of one of the 12 offered looks like this:
Blessings, Sooz
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Silliest 'Happy Birthday Jamie Fraser' Video Ever
We've been discussing our favorite Happy Birthday Jamie Fraser video lately...so I had to post a chunk of it today. I just watched this and laughed harder than I did when we made it. Enjoy!
(Spoiler Alert: We are discussing An Echo in the Bone in the video!)
(Spoiler Alert: We are discussing An Echo in the Bone in the video!)
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Happy Birthday Jamie!
Happy Birthday to the hottest fictional character (who we like to pretend is real) on the planet,
Mr. James Alexander Malcolm Mackenzie Fraser!
Mr. James Alexander Malcolm Mackenzie Fraser!
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Update about Outlander on Starz: Ron Moore Has Fellow Writers!
Check out the info from deadline.com:
Outlander, Diana Gabaldon’s bestselling fantasy/romance/adventure series of books, is slowly inching to the screen. No greenlight from Starz yet, but I’ve learned that the project has opened a writers room, with Battlestar Galactica developer Ron Moore, who is spearheading the drama series adaptation, hiring four scribes to work with him. The move indicates that Starz is contemplating a potential straight-to-series order forOutlander, a route the pay cable network has taken with most of its original series. Joining Moore on Outlanderare two writers who have worked with him before —Battlestar alumna Toni Graphia and Caprica‘s Matt Roberts — along with veteran showruner Ira Behr (Alphas, The 4400) and Anne Kenney (LA Law, Switched At Birth).
I cannot tell you how happy I am to have some kind of update! I sat on my hands in Fairview, undersatanding it was an event that was sponsored by a library...and discussions of TV series were probably not going to happen. And although I'm not always sure how I'll fell once the series shows up on Starz...I can't help but get a little giddy when I see updates like this!!!!
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Sooz Does It Again!
 |
| "Keep Calm and Read Gabaldon" |
 |
| "Herself" |
Holy cow. For those of you who don't know MOP-bud, Sooz, she hand-made adorable dachshunds last year for Diana - as well as Tracey and myself. Well...I'm glad to say that Sooz has done it again!
Look at these gorgeous shirts Sooz made for Diana! They are spectacular!!
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| "Outlander" |
and produces the designs with software called Embroidery 5D with added alpha characters from embroidery.com (Jacobean letters). I cannot tell you how amazing the colors are up close! |
| Telling DG about Sooz's shirts... |
 |
| Tired, post Fairfax...yet PROUD in my custom-made shirt from Sooz! |
My most sincere THANKS go out to Sooz for not only making them for Diana, but for making one for Tracey and myself as well. :)
You can see the close ups of the embroidery below:
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
April 16, 1746: Remembering Culloden
Hear the wind blow through the drifting snow. Tell me, can you see them?
The ghosts of Culloden...
Monday, April 15, 2013
Weekend at Fairfax
What is UP??? I am finally getting to sit down and post about Tracey and my faBU weekend in Fairfax, Virginia with some verra awesome MOP chicks. I finally was able to meet the wonderful Karen Henry of Outlandish Observations (just sitting with her at a Diana Gabaldon event was a treat!)...and was able to spend some seriously quality time with Lara, Tonya, Cari, Julie and Donna. I was also thrilled to see Carla again...and to finally meet Miss Marcia!
My apologies that I was not able to do all the blogging I had hoped to do. We were go, go, going, nonstop from the minute we arrived...and blogging ended up on the back burner.
OK so we arrived on Friday afternoon and headed over to the Northern Virginia Community College to find the girls first in line, as they had been waiting all afternoon (bless their hearts!) We were thankfully able to sit up front and were thrilled when DG showed up and began to speak. I cannot tell you how awesome it is to listen to her tell her story of how she got started writing, as I've been sitting on a story or two, myself...and am in dire need of direction.
Not much new to report, however; the speaking portion of the event was pretty short and didn't include any info about the upcoming Starz show (probably because it was a library event, and that means books.)
We then proceeded to hang out for hours and wait for the signing line to shrink - which is most certainly did not, for hours and hours. At 2AM (yes, you read that right), we finally got our books signed and were able to take a photo with Diana. We were the last in the line and felt horrible for her; she must have been exhausted. I was also THRILLED with a capital T to be able to give her the BEAUTIFUL shirts that Sooz made for her (another verra cool MOP bud); that post will follow.
The rest of the weekend was a blast because I got to hang out with women I've been talking to for a few years now - some on a daily basis. We didn't do anything scheduled (again - sorry to those who may have been hoping for a better gathering; we'll do that again, I promise!) but we had a blast and I'm sorry it had to end. :)
Outlander Chat Tonight
Outlander Chat tonight. 9PM Eastern. (Tracey is on vacation in Mexico...but I will be there. Not sure how long I'll be there (yawnnnn - still catching up from the weekend in Fairfax!) but I'll be there. ;)
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Verra Cool eBay Find of the Day
Check out this 1746 bronze Battle of Culloden medal, featuring William, Duke of Cumbria. Wish it were featuring Bonnie KING Charlie...but, alas...it was not to be.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
The Execution of Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat
On April 9th, 1747, Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat and chief of Clan Fraser (and fictitious father of Jamie Fraser's bastard father, Brian Fraser), was executed at the Tower of London for his "crime" of being a Jacobite and aiding in the Jacobite rebellion to get Bonnie Prince Charlie back on the throne and reestablish Scottish rule.
Lord Lovat has the distinction of being the last person to be beheaded at the Tower of London.
Just prior to the execution, about 20 people were also killed when the scaffolding they were sitting on to watch Simon Fraser's demise, collapsed. Apparently, Simon found this so amusing, he laughed uncontrollably until the axe fell, thus creating the term, "laughing your head off".
Lord Lovat has the distinction of being the last person to be beheaded at the Tower of London.
Just prior to the execution, about 20 people were also killed when the scaffolding they were sitting on to watch Simon Fraser's demise, collapsed. Apparently, Simon found this so amusing, he laughed uncontrollably until the axe fell, thus creating the term, "laughing your head off".
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| Simon Fraser, Lord Lovat, as etched by William Hogarth at St. Albans. Lovat is seen working on his memoirs as he awaits trial. |
Monday, April 8, 2013
Da Vinci's Demons - A New Starz Original Series
Wondering what the Outlander series might "feel" like on Starz? Check out the new "De Vinci's Demons" - starting this Friday, April 12th.
UPDATED Fairfax Info!
This just in from Ted Kavich of the Fairfax County Library:
Hello and thanks for registering for the Diana Gabaldon event scheduled for this Friday at 7:30 p.m. at the Gymnasium, Ernst Community Cultural Center on Northern VA Community College’s Annandale campus (8333 Little River Turnpike, Annandale 22003). Details, including parking info and a link to driving directions/campus map, are here:
Please note: the lots that are reserved for free event parking – B-8 through B-15 and B-17 – are available after 6:00 p.m. If you want to arrive before 6:00, you’ll need to pay to use the parking garage (adjacent to the surface lots right next to the Ernst Center). In case you require handicapped parking, it is available right across from the Ernst Center (spaces are marked) or in lot C-1.
This event is SOLD OUT and there is a waiting list. If your plans have changed, please cancel your registration so someone else can attend. The link to cancel is in the reminder message you received, or you can email (or call 703-324-8428) and we’ll take care of it for you.
When you arrive, please enter through the atrium of the Ernst Center. Doors to the gym will open at 6:45 p.m. so please try to arrive by that time (or earlier) so everyone can get seated and ready for the program to begin. Seating is first come, first served with chairs on the floor of the gym and additional space on bleachers. Note: as long as you secured a spot online, you don’t have to bring a printed copy of your registration email to the event. Also note: if you require handicapped seating, please let one of the ushers know and they will assist you.
The Library Foundation is expected to start selling books in the atrium before the event and we are hoping to have some pre-signed copies available. There will be an assortment of Diana’s books for sale, and you may also bring your own copies. The queue for book signing will form in the atrium immediately after Diana’s talk and Q&A. In the interest of time, there will be a limit of 2 books per person, and we ask that you help us keep the line moving by minimizing your time at the signing table. If you want to get additional items signed, you are welcome to get back on the end of the line and wait for a second turn.
Thanks and we’ll see you on Friday!
Ted
Sunday, April 7, 2013
April 1778 Fraser Salt Works SHOCKER!
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| The Shark River salt works was destroyed immediately following the attack on the Union salt works on the Manasquan river in Brielle, New Jersey. |
I've been doing some historical digging this weekend as it's the anniversary of the burning down of the "Union salt works" and dozens of houses and buildings in my town - Brielle, NJ - by British loyalists during the Revolutionary war. Salt was extremely important in those days for preserving meats and other foods...as well as making gun powder, which was obviously needed in the war.
What does this have to do with OUTLANDER? Well...I came across something while googling the salt works yesterday, and nearly fell off my chair:
Manasquan River Inlet, New Jersey...
You don't even know the chills I had (or the fit I threw at my husband!) when I read this. I've been waxing on about the Union salt works being burned down in my own back yard for years...but now I find out that FRASER'S HIGHLANDERS were responsible? I'm completely torn and on the fence about it. On the one hand, I'M AN AMERICAN and they ATTACKED MY TOWN. On the other...they were Scots...and went through horrific atrocities while fighting the English. I keep telling myself these men were left with nothing and had to feed their families back in Scotland, and therefore had no choice but to fight for the crown...but wow. Just...wow. And it doesn't help that some people say the Scots "flocked to the cause."
(My Scottish-American husband and I just got into a heated debate over this...ME defending the SCOTS! It's really unsettling, that is for sure.)
(My Scottish-American husband and I just got into a heated debate over this...ME defending the SCOTS! It's really unsettling, that is for sure.)
Make sure you read the Fraser's Highlander's wiki link; it's chock full of Fraser mentions, Stirling Castle being one of them.
AND - check out this adorable house on Union Lane in Brielle, NJ. It is believed that this house was the only house on Union Lane that was not burned down in the attack on the salt works in Brielle. You won't believe how they've restored it. It's absolutely stunning...and every effort was obviously made to infuse the 18th century feel with the modern conveniences of the home. Truly outstanding. Friday, April 5, 2013
Entertainment Weekly Interview with Diana Gabaldon
HOLY COW! Check out the amazing Entertainment Weekly interview with HERSELF, Diana Gabaldon. And LOOK! It's the official MOBY COVER!!! LOVE!!! The gorgeous seal looks 3D! I cannot WAIT to own this book!!!
Fairfax Library Event: Questions for Diana Gabaldon
From Ted Kavich of the Fairfax County Library:
Hello and thanks for registering for the Diana Gabaldon event on April 12. The date is drawing near and final preparations are underway – we are all very excited to be hosting Diana and welcoming such a great crowd of fans.
Stay tuned for news about when the doors will open, book signing, etc. But first – we are seeking questions for our moderator, Wendi Kaufman, to ask Diana during the Q&A portion of the event. We’d love for the fans to submit questions, then we’ll pick our favorites to use at the event. Here’s how to pose your question:
1. Visit the Fairfax County Public Library’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/fairfaxcountylibrary. The message asking for questions should be easy to find – it was just posted today.
2. Leave your question as a “Comment” below the posting. If you see that someone else has already asked your question, try to think of a different one that’s even better. J
3. Deadline for submissions is Monday, April 8.
Thanks so much! See you on 4/12.
Ted
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Benchmark Teacher of the Week: Christie Haffner
Check out this week's Benchmark Teacher of the Week! Our very own Miss Christie! I was so hoping she'd look into the camera and whisper "Fergus Lamaze"...but it was not to be. ;)
CONGRATULATIONS CHRISTIE!
ABC 33/40 - Birmingham News, Weather, Sports
CONGRATULATIONS CHRISTIE!
ABC 33/40 - Birmingham News, Weather, Sports
Monday, March 25, 2013
Saturday, March 23, 2013
It's The Little Things
So my 8 year old son (Wee Ian) is in the Cub Scouts, and served at the pack's annual spaghetti dinner tonight. And as I was sitting next to him after the dinner, I looked at his shirt and realized it was cause for a blog post.
"Why", you ask? Three reasons:
1) MOBY.
2) This awesome post on DG's blog.
3) The patch on Wee Ian's left shirtsleeve:
There are times...like now...when I'm so full of wanting for MOBY that I scarcely know what to do with myself, sassenachs. I miss the heck outta being immersed in Gabaldonville...I really do.
JE SUIS PREST!!!!!!!
"Why", you ask? Three reasons:
1) MOBY.
2) This awesome post on DG's blog.
3) The patch on Wee Ian's left shirtsleeve:
There are times...like now...when I'm so full of wanting for MOBY that I scarcely know what to do with myself, sassenachs. I miss the heck outta being immersed in Gabaldonville...I really do.
JE SUIS PREST!!!!!!!
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Top 10 Unionist Myths About Scotland's Independence
This is a fantastic video that dispels the "Top 10 Unionist Myths" about what could happen if Scotland gets its independence in 2014.
I try reallyyyyyyy hard NOT to wax on about this topic, because I'm an American, born and bred, and have no business waxing on about a country I do not live in, whose customs I don't deal with on a daily basis. I also would never want to come off as anti-English while trying to convey my pro-Scottish beliefs.
That said...HELL YEAH I want Scotland to have their independence! JE SUIS PREST!!!!!!!
I try reallyyyyyyy hard NOT to wax on about this topic, because I'm an American, born and bred, and have no business waxing on about a country I do not live in, whose customs I don't deal with on a daily basis. I also would never want to come off as anti-English while trying to convey my pro-Scottish beliefs.
That said...HELL YEAH I want Scotland to have their independence! JE SUIS PREST!!!!!!!
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Monday, March 18, 2013
NEW Diana Gabaldon Fairfax Event Info
Received two emails with the following info regarding the NEW venue for Diana Gabaldon's Fairfax event on April 12th:
Email #1:
Thanks for registering for the Diana Gabaldon event on Friday, April 12 at 7:30 p.m. We have secured a new venue for the event:
Gymnasium, Ernst Community Cultural Center
Northern Virginia Community College, Annandale Campus
8333 Little River Turnpike
Annandale, VA 22003
Please follow this link for directions to the campus:
Also, please note that free parking for this event is available in lots B-8 through B-15 and B-17.
We have a long waiting list for this event. If your plans have changed and you can no longer attend, please cancel so others may attend by clicking on the link in your confirmation email or call 703-324-8428.
Thanks again, see you on April 12!
Email #2:
After we sent out today’s message with updated venue information for the Diana Gabaldon event, we received the same questions from many of you – so we thought we’d send the answers to all in case others are wondering.
· Rest assured, we will send additional updates as the event date draws closer. In particular, we will tell you the plan for the book sale/signing when it is finalized. Given the huge audience size, we will surely have to limit the number of items signed and also have attendees line up in “waves” to prevent crowding. Please stay tuned for this information.
· We will also let you know what time the doors will open on April 12. This will depend on logistics for chair setup, etc. so please stay tuned for this as well.
· If you are traveling from out of town and are wondering about hotels, please note that you are in good shape if you already secured a hotel in Fairfax, VA. Fairfax is close to Annadale (you can view this on Google Maps) and we’re not aware of any good hotel options in the immediate vicinity of the venue. So we suggest looking in the Fairfax area. (We do not suggest a particular hotel, nor do we have blocks of rooms at any hotels.)
Thanks again for registering! More to come…
Outlander Chat Tonight
Outlander Chat tonight. 9PM Eastern.
**At some point, we will be discussing the Fairfax event and where we are all staying...so try to come if you are going to Fairfax!
Friday, March 15, 2013
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
En El Nombre Del Padre
I would like to extend the best of wishes to the new leader of the Catholic church; Pope Francis!
Why, you ask?
I'M A "STINKING PAPIST"!!!! ;)
Why, you ask?
I'M A "STINKING PAPIST"!!!! ;)
Monday, March 11, 2013
Outlander Chat Tonight
Outlander Chat tonight. 9PM Eastern.
**Tracey isn't able to attend and I am iffy. BUT - we don't want to stop the fun! The chat room will be open at 9PM Eastern for some awesome Outlander discussion!
**Tracey isn't able to attend and I am iffy. BUT - we don't want to stop the fun! The chat room will be open at 9PM Eastern for some awesome Outlander discussion!
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
The Bounty
I just had to post the trailer because the second I saw it, I thought "Voyager!" An 18th century British ship, sailing the Caribbean (actually it's Tahiti, but work with me here), filled with soldiers in uniform, sporting plated hair, or at the verra least, ponytails?
OH yeah. I can almost taste the turtle soup.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Friday, March 1, 2013
Thursday, February 28, 2013
20 Awesome FREE Audiobooks
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Monday, February 25, 2013
Monday, February 18, 2013
Friday, February 15, 2013
Accidental MOBY Spoiler Sighting!
Holy god.
I just saw a MOBY spoiler on Diana's Facebook page. I didna mean to; it just...happened.
AND IT WAS GLORIOUS!!!!!!!
Honestly, it didn't give any info...and it wasn't anything odd or surprising. It was only one sentence! And it wasn't about a cliff-hanger, either.
But it mentioned Jamie...and something near and dear to my heart...and holy CRAP, I am so effing EXCITED TO READ THIS FRIGGIN BOOK!!!!!
I had to share. WOW. That was the BEST SPOILER I've ever not meant to look at in my life!!!
I just saw a MOBY spoiler on Diana's Facebook page. I didna mean to; it just...happened.
AND IT WAS GLORIOUS!!!!!!!
Honestly, it didn't give any info...and it wasn't anything odd or surprising. It was only one sentence! And it wasn't about a cliff-hanger, either.
But it mentioned Jamie...and something near and dear to my heart...and holy CRAP, I am so effing EXCITED TO READ THIS FRIGGIN BOOK!!!!!
I had to share. WOW. That was the BEST SPOILER I've ever not meant to look at in my life!!!
Monday, February 11, 2013
Outlander Chat Tonight
Outlander Chat tonight. 9PM Eastern.
Tracey and I are "iffy" to "probably not going to make it". I'm away with the fam and Tracey is working...but why curtail the fun? Have a tremendous chat and we'll catch up with everyone later. And if we are able to sign in, we will!
Tracey and I are "iffy" to "probably not going to make it". I'm away with the fam and Tracey is working...but why curtail the fun? Have a tremendous chat and we'll catch up with everyone later. And if we are able to sign in, we will!
Monday, February 4, 2013
Monday, January 28, 2013
Friday, January 25, 2013
Gung Haggis Fat Choy 2013
Of course I have to throw out a shout out to our favorite Burns Night celebrator, TODDISH MCWONG! Remember when I posted about him and his AWESOME celebration entitled "Gung Haggis Fat Choy" a few years ago? Well he's still going strong in 2013! He posted this info about his anual event in Vancouver and I HIGHLY recommend you attend if you are in Vancouver on Sunday!
Gung Haggis Fat Choy is getting closer to 1765... But only going back as far as 1858... to acknowledge the founding of British Columbia by Sir James Douglas to proclaim the Colony of British Columbia. Douglas was born in Guyana (then called Demera), to a Scottish father and Creole mother from Barbados. He then went to school in Lanark Scotland, before coming to Canada to work for the Northwest Company.
2013 Gung Haggis Fat Choy Dinner is January 27th Sunday at Floata Restaurant in Vancouver Chinatown.
Check our website www.gunghaggis.com
AND...check out last year's AWESOME event:
Gung Haggis Fat Choy is getting closer to 1765... But only going back as far as 1858... to acknowledge the founding of British Columbia by Sir James Douglas to proclaim the Colony of British Columbia. Douglas was born in Guyana (then called Demera), to a Scottish father and Creole mother from Barbados. He then went to school in Lanark Scotland, before coming to Canada to work for the Northwest Company.
2013 Gung Haggis Fat Choy Dinner is January 27th Sunday at Floata Restaurant in Vancouver Chinatown.
Check our website www.gunghaggis.com
AND...check out last year's AWESOME event:
Happy Rabbie Burns Day!
Happy Robert Burns Day! Where are you eating YOUR haggis?!
Fair fa' your honest, sonsie face,
Great chieftain o the puddin'-race!
Aboon them a' ye tak your place,
Painch, tripe, or thairm:
Weel are ye worthy o' a grace
As lang's my arm.
The groaning trencher there ye fill,
Your hurdies like a distant hill,
Your pin wad help to mend a mill
In time o need,
While thro your pores the dews distil
Like amber bead.
His knife see rustic Labour dight,
An cut you up wi ready slight,
Trenching your gushing entrails bright,
Like onie ditch;
And then, O what a glorious sight,
Warm-reekin, rich!
Then, horn for horn, they stretch an strive:
Deil tak the hindmost, on they drive,
Till a' their weel-swall'd kytes belyve
Are bent like drums;
The auld Guidman, maist like to rive,
'Bethankit' hums.
Is there that owre his French ragout,
Or olio that wad staw a sow,
Or fricassee wad mak her spew
Wi perfect scunner,
Looks down wi sneering, scornfu view
On sic a dinner?
Poor devil! see him owre his trash,
As feckless as a wither'd rash,
His spindle shank a guid whip-lash,
His nieve a nit;
Thro bloody flood or field to dash,
O how unfit!
But mark the Rustic, haggis-fed,
The trembling earth resounds his tread,
Clap in his walie nieve a blade,
He'll make it whissle;
An legs an arms, an heads will sned,
Like taps o thrissle.
Ye Pow'rs, wha mak mankind your care,
And dish them out their bill o fare,
Auld Scotland wants nae skinking ware
That jaups in luggies:
But, if ye wish her gratefu prayer,
Gie her a Haggis
 |
| What? You think I was kindof hot? Perhaps that's because I WAS, y'all! Now eat yer haggis and go tae bed ye brash lads and lassies! |
Fair fa' your honest, sonsie face,
Great chieftain o the puddin'-race!
Aboon them a' ye tak your place,
Painch, tripe, or thairm:
Weel are ye worthy o' a grace
As lang's my arm.
The groaning trencher there ye fill,
Your hurdies like a distant hill,
Your pin wad help to mend a mill
In time o need,
While thro your pores the dews distil
Like amber bead.
His knife see rustic Labour dight,
An cut you up wi ready slight,
Trenching your gushing entrails bright,
Like onie ditch;
And then, O what a glorious sight,
Warm-reekin, rich!
Then, horn for horn, they stretch an strive:
Deil tak the hindmost, on they drive,
Till a' their weel-swall'd kytes belyve
Are bent like drums;
The auld Guidman, maist like to rive,
'Bethankit' hums.
Is there that owre his French ragout,
Or olio that wad staw a sow,
Or fricassee wad mak her spew
Wi perfect scunner,
Looks down wi sneering, scornfu view
On sic a dinner?
Poor devil! see him owre his trash,
As feckless as a wither'd rash,
His spindle shank a guid whip-lash,
His nieve a nit;
Thro bloody flood or field to dash,
O how unfit!
But mark the Rustic, haggis-fed,
The trembling earth resounds his tread,
Clap in his walie nieve a blade,
He'll make it whissle;
An legs an arms, an heads will sned,
Like taps o thrissle.
Ye Pow'rs, wha mak mankind your care,
And dish them out their bill o fare,
Auld Scotland wants nae skinking ware
That jaups in luggies:
But, if ye wish her gratefu prayer,
Gie her a Haggis
Monday, January 21, 2013
Outlander Chat Tonight (Meeting at Diana Gabaldon's Fairfax Appearance to be Discussed!)
Outlander Chat tonight. 9PM Eastern. I plan on discussing Diana Gabaldon's signing at the Fairfax Public Library in April...so if you're planning on going, come say "Hi!"
Friday, January 18, 2013
Men in Kilts
Thanks to Karen and everyone who has sent me email or posted on my Facebook wall to alert me that MEN IN KILTS window cleaners have now opened a location at the Jersey Shore!!! (As soon as I can convince my husband to let me hire them, I'll let you all know!)
Monday, January 14, 2013
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Kilts on Pinterest
Can I repin an entire board? Yowsa.
 |
| Thanks to Sheri for letting me share her FANTASTIC Pinterest board! Make sure you click the link to go see the whole thing! |
Friday, January 11, 2013
Happy Birthday Diana!
to the awesomest, gracious to her fansiest, enjoyer of vinoest, wife of my best friend Dougiest, creator of Jamie Fraserest and MOSTest distinguished writer on the planet, y'all!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DIANA GABALDON!!!
Many happy returns!
LÃ breith sona dhuibh!!!
Monday, January 7, 2013
Monday, December 31, 2012
Happy Hogmanay!
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Monarch of the Glen in 2013
Make 2013 the year that you finally watch Monarch of the Glen
!
It's like a huge, steaming pile of Scottish goodness, dropped directly into your lap!
!It's like a huge, steaming pile of Scottish goodness, dropped directly into your lap!
Friday, December 21, 2012
The Wee Man
I canna WAIT for this film. Not only is John Hannah in it...but some of you will remember Martin Compston as Ewan on Monarch of the Glen. He's tremendous and seems to be playing a seasoned, gangster, grown-up version of the same character in The Wee Man!
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
MOP Character Contest Entries Coming Shortly
I am just now going through and reading all the entries via email, along with the names of everyone who sent them...and can say that I am somewhat floored. People I expected to ham it up, didn't...some I wouldn't have expected...did!
I am going to post all of the entries soon. If you do NOT want your name to be printed along with your entry, please email me again and let me know.
We are SO doing this again, soon!
PS - Another male Outlander fan...I love it! You need to come to MOP Chat one of these days, mister! :)
I am going to post all of the entries soon. If you do NOT want your name to be printed along with your entry, please email me again and let me know.
We are SO doing this again, soon!
PS - Another male Outlander fan...I love it! You need to come to MOP Chat one of these days, mister! :)
Monday, December 17, 2012
The My Outlander Purgatory Character Contest WINNERS
But first...let me tell you how we picked the winners. Tracey and I each picked 8 entries...and then compared notes. Interestingly enough, 5 out of the 8 were a match. Of the 5, we each picked 3 and compared notes...and all 3 were the same! We each picked an "honorable mention" as well.
Let me just say that every single one of those entries was tremendous. I wish they could all be winners...because they were so well thought-out. Whether they were longer and more descriptive...or a quick one-liner, we really enjoyed them all...and hope you did, too!
And now...for the winners of the MOP Character Contest (drumroll please):
WINNERS (3):
- I would want to be Claire, not only because she has Jamie, but because she has the best genes ever. The woman does not age! She still has a nice arse at 47 (Joe Abernathy would tap that), and I am telling you, that is nearly impossible! (At least it is in my gene pool-- our arses make it until about 18 and then wave their white flag at old man Gravity.) She's also a career woman in a time when there was no such thing, knowing the healing properties of every plant in the 18th and 20th century, from Scotland to North America. Yeah, there are some negatives-- body lice, battles, strumpets trying to steal her man, and Frank from 1948-1966, to mention a few-- but having a devoted, warm, supportive, and sweet man like the Lord of Lallybroch by her side, an impressive, century-spanning resume, and a great body into her 50s... there is no other choice for me.
- I would love to be the girl who gave Jamie his son....Geneva Dunsany. I think of her and wondered what the relationship would have been between them if she had lived. I am certain Jamie would not have been able to stay away from his son, especially in those years after he was released from his bond. Geneva wanted Jamie. He was gentle with her when he bedded her and even though she was a wicked wee bizum, I would fantasize that with the birth of the baby things may have been different between them. So, yea, I would be GenevHO, if only for that one night..... sigh.
- I'd be Donas, so I could have Jamie riding me all day!
HONORABLE MENTIONS (2):
- I would be Frank because then at least one of us would be able to answer the question "What did Frank know?"
- I'd be Frank. 'Cause I'm a bit of a douche.
I find it verra interesting that both honorable mentions are about Frank. Always 2nd best, poor guy!
Now that we know the winning entries...let's find out who the winners are! If you are one of our 3 winners, please comment below and let us know who you are. Also - send me an email at carol@myoutlanderpurgatory.com, letting me know what (1 credit) audio book you want from audible.com...and what email address to send it to.
I will post ALL entries after we find out the winners...and it's up to the rest of you whether or not you want to come clean about who you are!! :)
Thanks again to all who entered; we've had a blast. Something tells me I'll be running another contest again verra soon!
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