Two Best Friends, Seven Novels, One Goal: The Jane Austen Challenge

Recently, I introduced my best friend to the world of Jane Austen through the film Pride and Prejudice. Like most girls do, she quickly fell in love with Mr. Darcy! Soon, we couldn't get enough, which quickly led to the desire to watch another movie. The Jane Austen Book Club was up next; and we weren't disappointed. By the time the credits were scrolling up the screen, however, we craved more than just another film, which led us to a challenge and ultimately to the bookstore where we both purchased "The Complete Novels of Jane Austen." As you can see in the photo, it's far from a quick read! Though all seven novels are there, buried in the 1278 pages! Our goal is to read one novel a month, and then have an improv book discussion at a coffee shop to discuss what we thought.

I have only read a bit of Pride and Prejudice, but not enough to truly say I have experienced Jane's written work the way it should be appreciated! Thus the journey begins! I have always been told that to be a great writer, you must appreciate the greats. I feel like Jane Austen is a great start! I will post updates of my progress here, and if you feel like joining in on our literary journey please do!

Island Getaway Weekend

Island relaxation with my best friend made this weekend beyond perfect. We visited Pass-a-Grille Island to visit Uncle Clint and Aunt Marge. It was beautiful and the weather was amazing. Here are a few pictures, enjoy!

The "pink castle" on the island, which is actually a hotel.

Random photo of the island.

There were many sailboats out this weekend enjoying the warm weather.

Heather enjoying the view of the sunset at "The Hurricane."

The restaurant we ate dinner at Saturday night!

The sunset was breathtaking! Each night someone on the beach is selected to "ring in the sunset." This means they ring the bell as the sun sinks below the horizon and you can hear it throughout the island. It's a very beautiful tradition!

Uncle Clint enjoying some beach time!

Uncle Clint's backyard!

Best friends :)

SCBWI Florida Chapter!

Thank you to my tax refund I was finally able to update all my accounts including my SCBWI membership! Back on track and officially a Florida Chapter member! Up next? June conference in Orlando at Disney World, yes please! :)

Creatively yours,

Kat

S'more Updates!

I am happy to report that there were bathrooms in the wilderness ;) St. Joseph Peninsula State Park was where we pitched our tent, rather than St. George Island (I got the locations mixed up in my last post). As it turns out, our location has been voted the #1 beach in the USA for the last 2-years! It was absolutely beautiful and perfect for a spring break getaway. I ate my weight in s'mores and would be perfectly content to never see another hot dog as long as I live!

Now however it is back to work, writing, and a mandatory trip to the laundry-mat as everything I own has a rather pungent memory of the campfire we spent the weekend huddled around!

Creatively yours,

Kat

Spring Break and Camping

Spring break has finally arrived and Josh and I are headed out near St. George Island with a few of his friends to camp on the beach! It should be a lot of fun, though I haven't been camping since I was 12 and therefore have the slightest idea about what to pack. Furthermore, I have very important questions, like is there a bathroom in the wilderness? And, should I bring my hair dryer? Yes, I am clueless... but excited! Stories later I am sure!

Creatively yours,

Kat