Behind the Blogger Tag

Hey guys! This is, like, a really bad blogger moment. But, I honestly didn't have a post scheduled or planned for today. I usually stay on top of these sorts of things... I've been pretty busy. But, that's not a good excuses even though it's hitting the nail on the head.

So, I thought I'd throw this post together last minute and cross my fingers I'll do better next time! 

Rules: 

1.Thank the person who nominated you. (Thank you so much, Leah!)

2. Answer the questions.

3. Nominate 5 bloggers (First five commenters get nominated! And if you don't have a blog, feel free to answer in the comments if you'd like!) 

Why did you start blogging, and why have you kept blogging?

I started blogging when I felt God's prompting and somehow managed enough courage to share my writings. I keep blogging because I desire to be a light in a dark world, and this is one platform where I can do that. <3 Plus, I love connecting with future book readers!

What is your favorite type of blog post to write?

Poems, devotions, and short stories. 

What are your top 3 favorite blog posts on your blog? 

This one. This one. And this one. 

What are some of your favorite things to do to relax?

Read, movies, paint, hand letter, walks, music, etc!

What are three of your favorite things? 

Family, Animals, Nature. (I'm being vague, but will it count??)

What are your favorite blogging moments? 

When I get the opportunity to "meet" online friends. And when I get tagged for fun tags! 

Describe your personality in 3 words.

Goofy, insightful, creative. Idk! Obviously indecisive should be one of those.

What are your top 3 pet peeves?

1. Right when we move our horses out, then the weather changes to a storm... 

2. When the dogs bark at nothing at all. 

3. When flies get trapped in the house and bug me all day. 

What is something that your followers don't know about you?

I think only one person out in the blogosphere knows this... I was once asked by a little girl to get her picture taken with me. lol, we were at one of those old west towns and all of us girls decided to dress up like we were from that era. I was an Indian (a blonde Indian *winks*) and she must have thought I worked there, but she was so cute that I couldn't refuse. And, so for a moment, I felt like I was one of those Disney  characters at Disney world who get their pictures taken with lil kids! :)

Your turn! Answer one of those question in the comments below! Also, what did you do today? Any fun plans for August? (Wow, is it already the third of August?????) 

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse

Liebster Award

Today's post is the Lobster Award!!! Many thanks to Leah for nominating me for this award/tag!

Rules:
1. Thank the person who nominated you. (Thank you, Leah!)
2. Display your award (Up above!)
3. Answer the questions you were asked
4. Nominate 5 other bloggers
5. Ask 6 new questions
6. Let your nominees know they were nominated.
7. Have fun!

My Questions from Leah:

What is your favorite dessert? 
My favorite dessert is FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE DRINKS && ice cream. But basically anything chocolate, peanut butter, caramel, or cookie dough. Ok, I'm actually pretty flexible when it comes to desserts so it might be easier to list what I don't like: twizzlers, licorice, custard filled doughnuts, marzipan, and yogurt/pudding.

If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
I'd love to go to Alaska someday. Also, Australia to see some awesome peeps.
Oh, and Yosemite would be cool! (And the Grand Canyon!! XD)

What is your favorite thing to do in the summer? 
I love hiking, jet skiing, swimming, bike rides, grooming Rosie, taking walks, kayaking, gardening, etc! Sorry, can't just pick one thing!

What is your favorite book of the Bible? 
I've always liked the book of James.

Would you rather have a dog or a horse? 
Ahhh, such a hard question!!! I love both!!!!!

Do you have any pets? If so, how many and what are they?
Yes!! We have four horses and a mini, two Nigerian Dwarf goats, two mini pigs, 11 chickens, 6 barn cats, 1 indoor cat, and 5 dogs! I love having animals! <3

I nominate:
Faith
Kaitlyn
Rebekah
Patience (in the comments!)
Julian 

New Questions for y'all:

1. What is your top three (baby/book character) names? 
2. Do you like flowers for their shape, scent, or color?
3. What is your ideal vacation spot? 
4. Favorite book genre and why? 
5. What is your favorite way to hear from your friends? (text, happy/snail mail, surprise visits, etc)
6. If you could pick one thing to be super good at, what would it be? 

Did you like reading this tag? What is one of your favorite books in the Bible? Favorite thing to do in the summer? Lets talk about it below! 

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse 

Would You Rather // The Amazing Race Tag

Calling all adventurers and adrenaline junkies! Today's post is going to be all about exciting/crazy/dare-devilish things! 

I don't know how many of you have watched The Amazing Race, or even if you have heard of it at all. But today, Rebekah and I are going to be doing a super fun Amazing Race Would You Rather Challenge/Tag! 

But first for those of you who don't know what the Amazing Race is: "The Amazing Race is a reality television game show in which teams of two people race around the world in competition with other teams. Contestants strive to arrive first at "Pit Stops" at the end of each leg of the race to win prizes and to avoid coming in last, which carries the possibility of elimination or a significant disadvantage in the following leg. 

...Clues provided in each leg lead the teams to the next destination or direct them to perform a task, either together or by a single member. These challenges are related in some manner to the country wherein they are located or its culture. Teams are progressively eliminated until three are left; at this point, the team that arrives first in the final leg is awarded the grand prize." 

So basically it is a race around the world, doing many crazy challenges along the way. I personally, have enjoyed watching most of the Amazing Race seasons, but sadly I can't recommend them because of two things: the language and the drama. The majority of the show is fun to watch, you can travel the world without leaving your couch (sad, I know, but we aren't millionaires.) Although, because it is a reality show, things can get over dramatic and eyeroll worthy. 

Despite the Amazing Race's downfalls, we have chosen to look on the bright side. The adventurous side of things for this blog post. Rebekah and I have taken a few challenges, tasks, roadblocks, and detours of the show and decided to do a "Would You Rather Amazing Race Challenge!"

So here's how this is gonna work: 
We tell you a little bit about each challenge, then both of us will pick the task that if we were in The Amazing Race, we would have chosen to do. Make sense? Sort of, I hope! 

Would You Rather // Amazing Race Challenges 

1. Sandcastles vs. Hay Bales 

Sandcastles explained:There are 400 sandcastles on the hot beach. The clues are hidden under the sandcastles. You must look under the castles to find your clue, but if it’s not under that one you must rebuild the sandcastle before moving onto the next one.
Hay Bales explained: Searching through 186 giant hay bales you must find your clue. The clues are hidden inside the hay bales and you have to unroll them one at a time to see if your clue is inside.
(It may not sound too hard but once one team struggled for nearly 10 hours and never found the clue).

What would we rather do?

Rebekah's Answer: I think I would choose to do the sand castles. Both could either be quick or they could take forever, but I’d choose the sand castles because I don’t think I’d have enough strength to do too many hay bales. 

Brooklyne's Answer: I choose Hay Bales. I'd rather take my chances with the hay than burn in the sun trying to find and remake new sandcastles. I'd probably get a rash from the hay, but I'd just wear long sleeves and make sure to bring a pocket knife for the "twine."

2. Shaving Your Head vs Bungee Jumping 

Shaving You Head explained: This task is very self explanatory, though would take some amazing dedication to the Race in order to complete it. 

Bungee Jumping explained: This was a task quite a few times, but one specific time it was jumping from a 364 foot bridge. 

What would we rather do? *drumroll* 

Rebekah's Answer: As much as the thought of bungee jumping terrifies me I’d try to find my courage, because I really wouldn’t want to shave my head!

Brooklyne's Answer: I'm gonna have to go with Bungee Jumping! It would be terrifying, but at least I'd have my hair... XD

3. Tea Tasting vs Flags of the Countries Memory Challenge

Tea Tasting explained: Basically all you do is taste a flavor of tea then you search among hundreds of cups of different/similar teas to find a match to the one you tasted earlier.
Flags of the Countries Memory Challenge explained: Throughout the season teams were greeted with hello and goodbye in the language of whichever country they were in. Now you must match all nine different hello and goodbyes from the country you visited to the corresponding flag for that country.

What would we rather do?

Rebekah's Answer: Both of these would be quite tough, but I’d really have to go with the tea tasting. I feel like I’d have an easier time trying to find the right tea then trying to do a memory challenge of the flags. 

Brooklyne's Answer: Tea Tasting. Why? Because I'm observant, and might be able to pick out the right taste. Also, I don't think I could do the other flag challenge! 

4. Eating Fish eggs vs. Eating Snake

Eating Fish Eggs explained: Eat 1 kilogram of caviar (just over 2 pounds).
Eating Snake explained: You must eat a portion of cobra meat. Not only do you just have to eat the meat you’re eating it in front of a glass cage with live cobras in it.

What would we rather do?

Rebekah's Answer: Umm…this is disgusting, but I’d definitely choose the eating snake meat because I think it would be easier then trying to eat that many fish eggs. 

Brooklyne's Answer: Yuck, neither! That sounds disgusting! I might have to take a 4 hour penalty on this task... 

5. Dancing Routine vs. Choir Boy Sing Along in a Different Language

Dancing Routine explained: Learn a choreographed dance routine and perform in front of a judge.

Choir Boy Sing Along in a Different Language explained: Basically, you learn a song in a language you have never heard before and perform it with Choir boys. Sounds hard, I know! 

What would we rather do? 

Rebekah's Answer:  It takes me awhile to get the footwork down for a new dance but I feel like I could do it faster then trying to learn a song in a different language…

Brooklyne's Answer: Ah, I'd have to go with the first one... As clumsy as I am, I think I could do a dance routine faster than I can learn a song in a different language! 

6. Synchronized Diving vs. Kayaking Rapids 

Synchronized Diving explained: Both you and your teammate complete a dive in exact tune with each other. Diving from a tall diving board into deep waters below, one must have perfect timing and be on the same page with your teammate. 

Kayaking Rapids explained: Although this might sound like a easier task than up above, trust me, it comes with it's own challenge. One must complete a timed course through man-made rapids and turns. All the while collecting colored flags along the way.

What would we rather do??

Rebekah's Answer: I’m not a big fan of being in the water, but I’d have to choose the kayaking. 

Brooklyne's Answer: Sign me up for the Kayaking challenge. Sounds hard, but I think I might be able to do it! ...with a lot of practice.

7. Repelling from a Bridge vs. Tightrope Walk

Repelling form a Bridge explained: Up on a high bridge dangled above the water by one rope? Sounds adventurous to say the least. 

Tightrope Walk explained: One team member had to cross a tightrope between the San Francisco Bay Towers, 35 stories high and 65 feet across!

What would we rather do?

Rebekah's Answer: I’d choose to repel, because that just sounds way less scary! ;)

Brooklyne's Answer: Repel from a bridge... that, over a 35 story high tightrope walk any day.

**If anyone thought this was a fun tag, feel free to steel this post idea (or make up your own would you rather challenge!) 

~~~

I had SO much fun planning this tag with you, Rebekah! Thanks for virtually traveling the world with me. *wink wink* We each picked pretty similar tasks. <3

What is a dare-devil thing you did and lived to tell the tale?

Comment Below!

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse

Chocolate Book Tag

Chocolate and books... does it get much better than that? I hope you enjoy this fun bookish tag that I am doing with Rebekah today! Make sure to check out her answers to this tag over at her blog HERE! <3

I had a super hard time picking these books, you know how much I can't choose favorite things... so keep that in mind!

• Dark Chocolate - A book that covers a dark topic

Always Remembered

I probably should reread this because I was really young back when I read it. Well, this might be the first book I ever cried to, or at least wanted to cry. The dark topic covered in this book was war, specifically the Alamo. Both me and my sister read it, and. just. heart. wrenching. 

• White Chocolate - Your favorite lighthearted/humorous read

The Day the School Blew up + Camporee of Doom

These books, y'all! I LAUGHED out loud! idk why, but they are seriously so hilarious! Even if you think you are too "old" for these books, you should at least read it for the laughs! XD

• Milk Chocolate - A book that has a lot of hype that you're dying to read

The Number of Love

I have heard so many good things about this book and I am so excited to read it! It sounds very intriguing... :)

• Chocolate With a Caramel Center - A book that makes you feel all gooey in the middle while you are reading it. 

Dandelion Dust 

Uh, I'm not sure about "gooey" but Dandelion Dust has such a sweet vibe to it.

• Kitkat Chocolate - A book that has surprised you lately 

The Swiss Courier

I wouldn't say "lately," because I read it about a year ago. But I remember being surprised when I read it! *winks*

• Snickers Chocolate - A book that you're going nuts about

The Serenity Inn series + The Circle C Adventures

I went "nuts" about both these series when I was 12-14 and they still bring back such fond memories when I think about them! Also note that the Serenity Inn series has updated covers that I like a lot better than Goodreads covers... 

• Hot Chocolate with Whip Cream - A book that you would return to for a comfort read

The Fire in Ember by DiAnn Mills

One of my all time favorites! Definitely qualifies as a "comfort read!" 

• A Box of Chocolates - A series you have read that gives you a wide variety, something for everyone

Love Finds You Series + The Wells Fargo Trail + Anything by Stephen Bly 

Love Finds You books is a gigantic series written by many authors. I personally have not read all of them but the books I have read are usually really good and pretty well rounded. The Wells Fargo Trail series is for anyone who loves adventure, fist fights, and excitement. They are a little more rough around the edges. Now, the series I have read by Stephen Bly (one of my favorites is "Homestead") is definitely a good choice with a little bit for everyone! XD

Don't forget to head over to Rebekah's posts to see her answers to these fun bookish questions! Now tell me, what is your White Chocolate book? 

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse 

The Small Joys Tag

All the credit for this tag goes to my older sister! She told me this tag idea, and thus today's post is a tag inspired by her: The Small Joys Tag! It's all about finding the little joys in life; things that bring you joy in the smallest of ways.

~Rules~

1. Thank the blogger who tagged you (Thank you Sissy for "tagging" me)

2. List 15 of your Small Joys (They can be as weird, random, and silly as you want to make them!)

3. Tag 5 blogger friends who bring you joy (and feel free to say why they bring you joy!)

4. Have fun with it!

~~~

1. Opening the Mailbox
I love getting the mail. Opening the mailbox and finding mail inside is one of my small joys. Even if it is just junk mail, it's still exciting to see it inside the mailbox. Sometimes I open the mailbox multiple times a day if I go by on the four wheeler. It's fun, and something that brings me a small amount of joy.

2. Frozen Hot Chocolate Drinks
I know, I know, food shouldn't brink me "joy," but if you could try a FROZEN HOT CHOCOLATE DRINKS then you would see what I'm talking about. But it's not just the chocolate-y drink, it's the way I always drink it. It's a bit on the weird side, but I can't eat a double chocolate blast drink without first taking a picture of it, then I take the domed plastic lid off. (nope, I can't just be like a normal person and use a straw through the lid, lol.) After the lid is off, I drink it through the straw, then use the other end of the straw to get the whipped cream... but only around the outside of the cup working my way until only a little circle of whipped cream is left. Y'all, its hard to explain, but it's the only way I can enjoy my chocolate drink! And if you haven't guessed it by the all-caps up above, I get pretty excited about these drinks. :P

And now, I'm pretty darn sure y'all think I'm very weird.

3. Movies with the Fam
My family likes to watch series together. It's something we do as a family and it brings me small joy to sit down and watch movies in the evening. And one other thing that brings me joy is the series theme song. Whatever series we watch, I always get excited when I hear it. It's just happy. (Especially the theme song to Sue Thomas: F.B.Eye!!)

4. Showers in the Dark
This is something I've found recently that brings me joy. Showers in the dark, with some music and maybe a candle or something. Just makes ya feel extra pampered.

5. When a Song Comes on at the Right Time
You can't help but smile when a song comes on at the exact right time! Or when a song has been stuck in your head and it comes on the radio? Yesss! Or a song that fits your mood that very minute. These coincidences songs always bring me small joy.

6. When I Write Something Profound
Once in a blue moon, I feel like when I write, sometimes it is actually profound. I'll read it again and again, and the thought of me coming up with it on my own (without Pinterest *winks*) brings me lots of joy. The glory goes to God for whatever profoundness I find within my writing, but still, the thought of me actually writing something amazing is a cool thought.

7. Spotting a Shooting Star
When you just happen to be looking up at the exact right moment to catch a shooting star. There is just something joyful about witnessing such a sight.

8. Taking a Good Picture That Isn't Blurry
Yes, I love photography. But those close to me would tell you that I'm actually awful at taking pictures. I have the eye for detail and angles, and whatever else you need for photography except the ability to actually take. the. picture. I don't know if I'm shaky, or if it's the habit I have of not watching what I'm doing and rather looking anywhere else but the camera on the phone. So to fix this, I just take about 1033804584834 photos and hope for the best! That's why it's such a small joy (and victory) when I actually take a good and clear photo!

9. Our Dogs
Dogs are anyones best friend. Unless you don't treat them like a friend. I'm very blessed to have been giving five darling pups to live with. Maverick loves to run outside (he jumps the fence) and is attached my daddy. Dakota is a big watch dog when the mailman comes down the drive, but is terrified of leather tack. Charlie is such a gentle boy, he reminds me of Eeyore. Maisey is a springy and happy girl who such a sweetheart. Then little tucker, my therapy dog *winks* he's small, but thinks he's a big watch dog like Dakota. We love our dogs, and they bring me such small joys.

10. Blog Comments
When I check for blog comments, I'm always happily surprised when I have them to read! Ya'll's feedback and support mean a lot!

11. Clean Sheets
Jumping into bed with freshly washed clean sheets? Sounds like a small joy to me!

12. Stepping on Cardboard Boxes
Ok, now I've done it. Now you really think I'm a weirdo. Haha, your right, and I'm totally cool with that! The reason stepping on cardboard boxes brings me joy? Funny you might ask that. Well, I have fond memories as a kid. In order to fit cereal boxes and such into the trash, mama would always let me jump on it and step all over it. Now, I still do, because it's fun! lol XD

13. A Good Pen & Penmanship & A Blank Page
Yup, every writer out there can relate to this small joy! When you come across a "good" pen, it like, wow, no one can take it from you. Or when you are writing and you go, "Wow, I have really good penmanship on that word." or when you just stare at a clean, crisp, blank sheet of paper. Ah, writers heaven right there!

14. The Scent of Lilac
Gotta love it. I love lilac scented candles!

15. All Things Aesthetic
Colors that coordinate, hand-lettering, books, etc! If it's aesthetic, I love it and it brings me small joy. *winks*

Tagging:

~Faith P. I love chatting movies, writing, and books with ya... each one of your messages bring me small joy!

~Rebekah H, I'm tagging you because you never fail to encourage me, laugh with me, and just plain geek out with me on the most random things.

~Liberty for all the small joy you leave me with each blog comment (and tag), I'm returning the favor! <3

~Patience, I know you don't have a blog, but I'm tagging you to reply in snail mail form. Thanks for making me smile.

~Kaitlyn K. you bring me joy because you make me laugh a lot. Your a fun person to talk with.

I'd tag a whole bunch of other blogger friends who bring me such small joys, but I can only tag 5!

What is something that brings YOU small joy?

Many Blessings,

Brooklyne Elysse

Voted Most Likely Tag

Good morning and happy Wednesday! I hope your week is going good. Today I am doing a tag that is quite old, I can't even remember when I was tagged for it. But thank you Rakayle and Melissa for tagging me (eons ago!) I am doing this tag with random WIP's, so just keep that in mind! And also, I apologize if none of my characters make since as I haven't shared much... I don't want to spoil anything for when y'all actually get to read my books someday.

1. Thank the blogger who tagged you.
2. Include this link in your post... 
3. Use your own lovely Original Characters (OC’s); don’t use a friend’s characters or characters from your favorite fandom. They can be from any project, so long as you created them. For more fun, try to use as many different characters as possible.
4. Tag at least five lovely blogger friends to play along. 

1.) Most Likely to Be a Poet
Adeline (one of my characters from my Historical Fiction series) would most likely be a poet because of her love of words. She also can be deep and enjoys all things aesthetic.

2.) Most Likely to Dance in the Rain
Zoe, my main characters step sister in my WIP Third Chances would most likely dance in the rain because she is quite a optimist. She has quite the happy personality, with a zeal for life.

3.) Most Likely to Look Good in a Kilt
I have no clue, lol! 

4.) Most Likely to Get Punched in the Face
Either Colt or his brother Cory in my Third Chances WIP.

5.) Most Likely to Drop Everything and Become a Sheep Herder
Mabel from my Historical Fiction series (Winds of Faith Chronicles). She loves animals and would be such a gentle shepherdess.

6.) Most Likely to Be Found in the Library
Probably Adeline again... her and her love of books.

7.) Most Likely to Sleep Through an Earthquake
Adeline's youngest sister, Lexi. 

8.) Most Likely to Steal Food from Other Peoples’ Plates
Adam or Bea from Dakota's Dream (book one in the Winds of Faith Chronicles.) They have needed to steal food on multiple occasions.

9.) Most Likely to Cheat on a Test
Any of Natty's younger brothers. They are a handful. (Third Chances)

10.) Most Likely to Say “Oops” After Setting Something on Fire
Caden would definitely be this accident prone. (He's Colt's youngest bro) in my WIP Third Chances.

11.) Most Likely to Open an Orphanage
Cora would, she is very compassionate and loves caring for her children.

12.) Most Likely to Run off with the Circus
Zoe. She loves excitement and could probably get caught up in the circus.

13.) Most Likely to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse
Uhh, I really don't know on this one! 

14.) Most Likely to Fake Their Own Death
These last three questions are kinda weird, so idk who would fake their own death. None of my characters so far... 

15.) Most Likely to Die and Haunt Their Friends
Again, not sure on this one.

If you are a blogger who has a book you are writing, then consider yourself tagged if you want to do this tag! 

Which of these would YOU most likely do?? Lets talk about it below! 

Many Blessings

Brooklyne Elysse

Me in Book Characters Tag // Collab

Happy Monday! Rebekah Ashleigh and I have a special collaboration post that we are going to do today! We decided to do the "Me in Book Characters Tag" together! I think it will be really fun, and a good way to get to know us better... just only through fiction characters from books we have read!

So let the fun begin...

Rules 

1. Thank the creators of the tag. (Thank you whoever came up with this! :D)

2. Thank whoever tagged you. (Thank you to no one... we tagged ourselves *facepalm*)

3. List 5 book characters who you are most like and explain why. (Characters who we have most in common with...)

4. Tag your friends! (We are each tagging 3 lovely peeps!)

~~~

Ben 

1. Aimee in Third Chances by Brooklyne Elysse

Yes. Yes, I did just list my own book that isn't even a "book" yet. (*shakes head* I'm already breaking the rules of this tag) 

Aimee in my WIP, Third Chances, has many commonalities with me. (But also we have our differences too, I want to think she is a little more uptight than I am. *whispers* I have been called uptight before though *hides*) 

A few things we have in common are... We both love animals. We like things black and white, right and wrong, and the grey areas in life make us stressed out. We aren't necessarily assertive. We feel awkward on the inside, but most likely it isn't really that awkward. We both have a hard time "letting go." We don't like surprises. We are compassionate. We are caring. We can be stubborn. We like doing things that matter. We don't need fancy. We like giving more than receiving gifts.

2. Caden in Where Two Hearts Meet (Prince Edward Island Dreams #2) by Liz Johnson

I have a lot in common with Caden. We both love to cook and bake. We try to keep a organized kitchen, one that works smoothly and we would rather not have messiness (even though getting messy can sometimes be fun.) We stay calm in crisis situations even when we are flipping out on the inside. We will wait to break down quietly in our room after the situation has been resolved. Because of this, we keep things bottled up inside which can then result in a "teapot" explosion. We are mature, logical, we take things to heart. Some would want to call it left brained, but really we are right brained. We both have blonde hair. We both don't think very highly of ourselves, we are always hardest on ourselves. We love others, but sometimes don't show the same love to ourselves. We can be insecure, especially when it comes to body image. We appreciate beautiful landscapes and scenery. We are entrepreneurs. 

3. Rosalie in Love Finds You in Victory Heights, Washington by Tricia Goyer and Ocieanna Fleiss

Rosalie is much braver than I, but we do have some things in common... We don't like to just sit around and wait, we like to stay busy. Especially when things are rough. We aren't afraid of getting our hands dirty and rather like the mechanics of fixing things. We are stronger than we think. We fear heartbreak. And that fear can cause us to hesitate. To be cautious. We stand up for the people we care about. We try to encourage those we are around. We are loyal.

4. Grace in Heart on the Line by Karen Witemeyer

I found many similarities with Grace. We don't like things to hang over our heads, unfinished business nags on us after awhile. We aren't afraid to find the humor in a situation. We don't always follow the textbook rules to living life. We come out of our shells when we write (or in Grace's case, sending telegraphs..) We love having a community of family and friends. We like feeling like we are apart of a team. Thus, we are good team players. We are good listeners. 

5. Abigail's in Abigail's Dream by Kay D. Rizzo

Abigail had a few things in common with me. We like adventure. We are hard workers. And when we have a dream, we go forward with it. We have a hard time thinking on the spot in intense situations, but usually come up with good plans if given enough time to think things through. We love kids, and can play with ages younger than ourselves. We like routine, but not mundaneness. We like traveling, but also like to be settled.

Rebekah

1. The Christy Miller series by Robin Jones Gunn. Christy and I are pretty alike. Some of our looks are actually very similar as well as our personalities. I relate more to Christy in some of the later books then in the books where she is a younger teen. 

Occasionally Christy will irritate me about how she responded to something but then I think about it and realize that I might’ve handled the situation in not as great of a way either. I think sometimes the main characters in books can be so amazing and handle things perfectly that when you get to a relatable character you wonder why they did this or that until you realize that that is actually realistic. 

I feel like I can relate to Christy and it’s nice to see her grow and mature throughout the books.

2. Katie from Katie in Waiting by Erynn Mangum is so me. It’s kind of scary how similar we are! Several times throughout the book I was saying things like, “me too!” or “hey, that is just like me!”. 

It was just so weird how similar Katie and I were. From our thoughts and feelings on singleness and marriage down to small things like not being an animal person or disliking beards.  ;)

Reading Katie’s story encouraged me and I’m already reading it a second time!

3. Christy Huddleston from the 12 book Christy series based off the book by Catherine Marshall. Christy and I aren’t quite as similar as the first two characters I chose, but at the same time there are a few things that we are pretty close on. Christy likes children and making a difference in their lives. She’s a school teacher for a school in the Tennessee mountains. The families are very poor and the children don’t have much. I love how Christy takes the time to get to know her students and to be there for them. I love making kids feel valued and loved.

4. My own character Lily Winters. Out of all the characters I have written so far Lily is the most like me. We are both middle children and we are the peacemakers. Lily journals a lot because it helps her process things. In one scene Lily says, “Writing in my journal is like therapy to me.” That is for sure how I feel. While I made Lily and I have our differences we are very much alike.

5. Piper Redding from Live Without You by Sarah Grace Grzy. I can relate to Piper in some ways. Her and I both don’t really want to open up to people because we’re afraid of getting hurt. I took a Live Without You character quiz and got Piper. The description said something along the line of having a tender heart but sometimes are too afraid to show it. I can really connect with people but sometimes I hold back because I don’t want to go through the pain if they leave like some have done in the past. Something she learned through the book was that God is always there and He will never leave you. Which is so true. He will love you forever. 

~~~ 

I tag Liberty, Skye, and Julian!

I hope you enjoyed getting to know Rebekah and I more in this tag! Comment below and let us know how you relate to either of us!

Many Blessings

Brooklyne Elysse

Song Lyric Q&A Challenge // With a twist!

Hiya readers! I have a super fun post for you today! I was tagged by my sweet friend, Liberty, over at The Elegant Cowgirl (be sure to check her blog out and give her a follow!)

This tag is different than most tags on the blogosphere... it's more of a challenge! And who doesn't love a good challenge!?

Only I'm going to add a little twist to this challenge, my big sister is going to be answering the same questions with me!

The Rules:

// Link back to the blogger who challenged you. Thanks, Liberty!
// Answer the nice questions using only song lyrics.
// The entire song doesn't have to answer the question - just the lint that you use.
// Make sure you say the name of the song you got the lyrics from, plus the name of the singer who sings it.
// Feel free to explain why you pick that song lyric, if you feel like it doesn't explain it all.
// Challenge some bloggers! 

The Questions:

1. What is your dream life?

Ben

"I wanna be Somebody's Chelsea 
Somebody's world
Somebody's day and night
One and only girl
A part of a love story
That never has a end
You know that what every woman wants to be
Somebody's Chelsea"

^^ Somebody's Chelsea by Reba McEntrie

Or

"I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow
And each road leads you where you wanna go
And if you're faced with a choice and you have to choose
I hope you choose the one that means the most to you
And if one door opens to another door closed
I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window
If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile
But more than anything, more than anything
...
My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to
Your dreams stay big, your worries stay small
You never need to carry more than you can hold
And while you're out there getting where you're getting to
I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too
Yeah, this, my wish"

^^ My Wish by Rascal Flatts

Sis

"Crazy 'bout horses and wrap around porches
Crazy 'bout Strait singing fool hearted memory...
Yeah, your crazy, the same kind of crazy as me"

^^ Crazy as Me by Granger Smith

2. Where in the world do you live?

Ben

"Only in America 
Dreamin' in red white and blue
Only in America 
Where we dream as big as we want to"

^^ Only in America by Brooks & Dunn

Sis

"Country roads, take me home
To the place where I belong"

^^ Country Roads John Denver

"Where I come from
Theres a pickup truck with the tailgate down
Where I come from
The pine trees are singing a song of the south"

^^ Where I Come From by Montgomery Gentry

3. What describes you?


Ben

"We ain't perfect no
We ain't even close
We got holes in our hearts
We got scars we don't show
But all that baggage we
Keep on dragging around
Anytime we start laying in down

Lay it down at the foot of the cross
Give it to the One who can carry it all
Even at out worst, to Him we ain't lost causes
Just beautiful messes"

^^ Beautiful Messes by Hillary Scott and The Scott Family

Sis

"She's a hot little number in her pick-up truck...
Country, from her cowboy boots to her down home roots
She's country, from the song she plays to the prayer she prays"

^^ She's Country by Jason Aldean

(ben: *dies of laughter over here* Oh boy...)

4. How do you feel right now?

Ben

"Already good 
Already good
Life's already good 
I'll realize my life's already good
Thank God that my life's already good"

^^ Getting Good by Lauren Alaina

Or...

"I just wanna feel like ladies in the 90s
Turn the dial and find me some Strawberry Wine"

^^ Ladies in the 90s by Lauren Alaina

Sis

"Sunshine mixed with a little hurricane"

^^ Perfect Storm by Brad Paisley

Or...

"Man! I feel like a woman!"

^^ Man! I Feel Like A Woman by Shania Twain

*more laughter by ben*

4. What is something you like to do? 

Ben

"I said, I wanna touch the earth
I wanna break it in my hands
I wanna grow something wild and unruly
...
I wanna look at the horizon and not see a building standing tall
I wanna be the only one for miles and miles
Except for maybe you and your simple simile
Oh it sounds so good to me"

^^ Cowboy Take Me Away by Dixie Chicks

Sis

"Ain't going down 'til the sun comes up
Ain't givin' in 'til they get enough
Going 'round the world in a pickup truck
Ain't goin' down 'til the sun comes up

^^ Ain't Goin' Down by Garth Brooks

// I challenge the first three people who comment! XD

Wow! That was harder than I thought!

Wasn't this post fun?! Comment below and tell me something you like do using lyrics! 

Many Blessings

Brooklyne Elysse

Tag(s) // 40 Questions!

Today. Is going. To be a loooonnnggg post. I was tagged twice for two different tags, but decided to post them both today! Each is a 20 question tag, so overall, I will be answering 40 questions! Whew!

Lets get started then, shall we?!

20 Questions Book Tag 

Thank you, Kaitlyn, for tagging me!

1. How many books are too many in a series?

I personally love series! Although, I think 3-8 books is a good amount for a series. If there are too many, I my loose interest.

2. How do you feel about cliffhangers?

If they are within the chapters (like at the end of a chapter) I really like them! It makes it exciting and fun, but if they are at the end of a book, I don't care for them. Even if a book is in a series, I think its good for it to be able to stand alone if need be. So cliffhangers at the end of a book make it hard for them to stand alone. I find I love writing cliffhangers, though!

3. Hardcover or paperback?

For the most part, I like paperbacks better!

4. What's your favorite book?

If I handed you a list of my favorite books, it may compete in length with our receipts from Costco (we only go once in a while and usually have a pretty full cart, just to give you a idea!) In other words, I have many favorites!

5. Least favorite book?

Wild at Heart series by Mary Connealy wasn't my favorite. I wanted to like it, but the romance ruined it for me... especially in the first and last books. Thats the first books that come to mind. I'm trying to think of more... hmm, I also didn't care for Kiera by Kate Willis.

6. Fiction or nonfiction?

I love fiction, although I really like writing both fiction and non-fiction. I'm trying to get better at reading more non-fiction books. 

7. The most recent book you couldn't finish?

I haven't not finished a book in a while. But I have started multiple books at the same time, and I don't usually get to them all. But eventually I will finish them!

8. A book you're currently reading?

Currently reading: Blue Skies Tomorrow by Sarah Sundin + rereading The Fire in Ember to my sister + Hymns in the Hills by Rebekah A Morris + a couple non-fiction books!

9. Last book you recommended to someone?

Freedom by Faith Potts! After I finished reading it myself, I basically ran around like crazy recommending it to my mom, sister, cousin, and anyone in sight! *winks*

10. Oldest book you've read? (publication date)

Uh, idk... the Bible?

11. Newest book you've read? (publication date)

Again, Freedom by Faith Potts! <3 

12. Favorite author?

I have such a hard time deciding!!! Don't make me choose just. one. author. *gasps*

13. Buying books or borrowing?

I like owning the books so I don't feel pressure to give them back soon... or accidentally loosing them. But I don't need brand new books, thrift store books or sales or free hand-me-down books work just fine for me! ;)

14. A book you dislike that everyone else seems to love?

Kiera by Kate Willis. I wanted to like it, but I'm just not a dystopian kind of person. There was a few other things that I didn't like about this book, but everyone else seems to really enjoy it! That's what makes the world go around...

15. Bookmarks or dog-ears?

I absolutely never dog-ear! *deep breath* Just can't do it. Bookmarks all the way: even if its random objects closest at hand.

16. A book you can always re-read?

The Fire in Ember by DiAnn Mills! Kinda love this book.

17. Can you read while listening to music?

It's not ideal, but I can. Once we were on a road trip and the girls wanted to turn on the radio and sing. Well, on that trip I learned how to multi-task. Reading and singing is a neat talent to have, right?

18. One POV or multiple POVs?

I like two POV's the best. If there are too many POV's, it can get confusing...

19. Do you read a book in one sitting or over multiple days?

Over multiple days. I can't read that fast to finish it in a day, unless the book is a shorter novel. I read 100 Days of Sunlight in one day, and it was probably a medium length... so I guess it depends on how much time I have.

20. Who do you tag?

Tagging:
Faith
Liberty
and Boots (Lilly)

Here are your 20 questions:

1. How many books are too many in a series?

2. How do you feel about cliffhangers?

3. Hardcover or paperback?

4. What's your favorite book?

5. Least favorite book?

6. Fiction or nonfiction?

7. The most recent book you couldn't finish?

8. A book you're currently reading?

9. Last book you recommended to someone?

10. Oldest book you've read? (publication date)

11. Newest book you've read? (publication date)

12. Favorite author?

13. Buying books or borrowing?

14. A book you dislike that everyone else seems to love?

15. Bookmarks or dog-ears?

16. A book you can always re-read?

17. Can you read while listening to music?

18. One POV or multiple POVs?

19. Do you read a book in one sitting or over multiple days?

20. Who do you tag?

~~~

The NanoWriMo 20 Questions Tag

-Thank the awesome blogger who tagged you! Thank you, Esther @ wevegotpockets.com!
-Link back to the creator of this tag, Sophie @Sophie’s Corner.
-Feel free to use the NaNoWriMo 20 Questions Tag graphics!
-Answer the questions.
-Tag some friends who are also doing NaNo this year.
-And have fun!!!

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR NANOWRIMO PROJECT THIS YEAR! GIVE ME A BLURB!

So, I'm kinda still working on a good blurb... this one is a long version, but I thought I'd share it anyway. Also note that none of it is set in stone, so it may change as the story grows: 

Perfectionist Aimee Bernard has just graduated from a four year veterinary school, although, the plans she so carefully made for her life are falling apart. Caring for hurting animals is her true passion, but with her funds limited, Aimee must leave her college town and return home to small town Marysville, Kansas. Deeply in debt, she has no job prospects on the horizon and no support from her dysfunctional family. Aimee wants nothing more than to live a life of structure and stability--everything her childhood wasn't. Despite her efforts, her life seems to have gone from bad to worse, but when she is truly down to nothing, God shows her that He is up to something by both a chance encounter with a cowboy wannabe and the unexpected changes she finds in her mother after two years of next to none communication. Is “forgive and forget” too much to ask? Could it be that God’s plan for her life far outdoes her own? Would He possibly be giving her a third chance at love and forgiveness, or will her trust be broken for a third time? 

Colt Shelton has one mission as the oldest of four siblings and man of the household: to fulfill his fathers dying wish. But starting a animal sanctuary and rehabilitating mistreated animals doesn’t happen overnight. It takes determination, drive, teamwork, financial resources, and a plot of land. All of which he has except for the latter. Struggling to see how God is working in his life, Colt steps out in faith and buys a prime piece of farmland to start establishing the Taking Chances Ranch. The Shelton family soon find out that not only strays and misfit animals are attracted to the ranch but also a young girl with hopes of a job. Just when things were starting to get back to normal, a whirlwind of events cause him to reevaluate his future plans to include a certain auburn-haired stray who may have just found a way to his heart. Was this mission more than he bargained for? Will he come to regret moving his family to the country, or will the trails they face become blessings in disguise? 

WHAT’S THE GENRE?

It's Christian Contemporary. 

DESCRIBE YOUR MC IN THREE WORDS.

Aimee: Perfectionist. Compassionate. Afraid.

Colt: Protective. Humble. Loyal.

WITHOUT SPOILERS, DESCRIBE YOUR VILLAIN IN THREE WORDS.

To be quite honest, as of yet, I don't have a "villain." 

WHAT IS YOUR GOAL? (THE TRADITIONAL 50K? 20K? 5K? OR……. 100K?)

For NanoWriMo: 35K would be amazing for me! 

For overall, book word count goal: 70K to 90K words! 

We'll see how it all pans out though... but, I'm cheering those who are daring to write 100K. *fist bump* That's amazing! 

IS THIS YOUR FIRST DRAFT? SECOND? THIRD?

First draft. Sorta.

ARE YOU STARTING A NEW PROJECT (OR DRAFT), OR CONTINUING AN EXISTING ONE?

This is a older WIP with new plot revisions.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE TIME TO WRITE IN THE DAY?

Afternoon to evening. I'm usually too busy in the morning.

WHERE ARE YOU GOING TO WRITE?

In my room, on my bed, at my desk, on the couch, in the car, etc! 

COMPUTER OR PAPER?

Computer! Although, I think one of these days it would be cool to write a first draft using pen and paper. But I like typing best! 

NANOWRIMO IS A HUGE COMMITMENT!! HOW ARE YOU GOING TO MAKE TIME TO WRITE?

I'm going to block 1-2 hours during the week days for writing. I'm also planning on taking a hiatus from Social Media during the month of November. :)

ARE YOU GOING TO PARTICIPATE IN LOCAL OR ONLINE NANOWRIMO EVENTS? (E.G. KICK-OFF PARTIES IN YOUR CITY, WRITE-INS, VIRTUAL WRITING SPRINTS…)

Hmm, probably just do some writing sprints with friends. I'm not sure what else I will participate in.

DO YOU WRITE FROM BEGINNING TO END OR SKIP AROUND?

I try to write from beginning to end, but if I'm facing writers block, I allow myself to skip around in order to keep writing.

PLANNER OR PANTSER? (OR PLANTSER?)

Yeah, still trying new things and figuring out what works best for me...

WHAT WILL BE YOUR GO-TO NANOWRIMO SNACK?

Well, chocolate is my usual writing inspiration snack, but I'm trying to eat better so that might not be the best choice. I not sure... 

CHOICE OF CAFFEINE? (OR NO CAFFEINE?)

No caffeine.

ANY REWARDS FOR MILESTONE ACHIEVEMENTS? FOR FINISHING NANOWRIMO?

I'll have to think of this one! I will probably treat myself with some reading or a movie. I'll probably be tired of typing by then. *gulps*

SHARE A TIP FOR OTHER NANO-ERS!

Stay consistent with your writing. 

Set achievable goals for each day. 

And when you have inspiration, take advantage of it! 

Also, pray right before you start your writing each day.

HOW ARE YOU FEELING ABOUT NANOWRIMO? (EXCITED?! NERVOUS!? TERRIFIED?!)

Hopeful. 

I'm hopeful that I will be productive with my writing goals and not worry about it all. Just have fun and write whats on my heart.

SHARE AN AESTHETIC FOR YOUR NANOWRIMO NOVEL!

Tagging whoever is doing NanoWriMo next month! 

What a long post! If you made it to the end, way to go! *hands you a plate of cookies* So lets talk books and writing... Comment your favorite writing snack and your your favorite book that has a unique writing style! Talk to ya in the comments below! <3