The New Phenomenon Has Been Launched!

 THIS IS WHAT WE HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR!!!!

It's our new record (ok we have nothing to compare it to) we sold out of books in 50 minutes.  I do recall a convo about the number of books we would need for the book signing.  The publisher ordered 100 books.  We said we'd need more. 

The final count was 127. We probably would have sold more if we would have had them there.  Still an amazing night.

God is Good!

Kelly was our first purchaser tonight.

Kelly and I go way back to when we played volleyball

together in college.

Look at this cake!

Hy-Vee Bakery at 144th and Stony Brook in Omaha.

Tonya rocks!!!

We had so many friends come through tonight, it really isn't fair to put just one picture on here but it's the only one I got on Emma's little camera.  I will load more pictures in a few days.

The Foleys are dear friends from Grand Island.

Some of our other travelers were...

Kelly from Lincoln

April from Table Rock

Tami from Grand Island

Julie from Des Moines, IA

Mom and Dad from Smith Center, KS

I guess the people who drove over from Bellevue probably feel like they need a shout out too.  (Bellevue is part of the Omaha metro but a bit of a drive.)

Thank you Abby Snyder for taking pictures tonight,

can't wait to see them.

Thank you Susan for your cake cutting expertise.

Chris you rocked the book signing.  Love you babe!

The First Review

Here we are!  Today is the day!  Chris' book has been available since early November but today is our launch party for the book.  I am so excited!!! 

All the feedback we have heard on THE NEW PHENOM3NON has been positive.  We've had friends, colleagues, family, students, editors, etc. read the book and everyone liked it but they all had some kind of connection with us.  Today a review came out from a 20 year old gal who does not know us, we don't know her...there is no connection.  She liked the book!  That stamp of approval confirms what we already thought but couldn't be sure if we were just biased.  I have included her review below.

Nancy's Review from TumblingBooks.blogspot.com
This book was surprisingly good! I completely thought that it was about aliens, which I am not too fond of (they scare me a little), but it wasn't. The concept of "phenomenon children" was very cool, they had special talents that no one else could do and the government was after them to kidnap them and use them for experiments. At the beginning of the book I wasn't sure what was going on and so I was a little confused. It didn't take long for me to fully understand, as everything was explained very well as the story progressed. The book reminded me a little of Twilight (in a good way!) and I Am Number Four. The phenomenon children were amazing, their talents were very unique and the plot of the story was very exciting! I really grew to like Christian as a character. At the beginning of the book I saw him as the jock-type of person, but he wasn't like that at all. He was actually very down to earth and smart! He was completely different from how I thought he would be and it made me enjoy the book so much more. I'm thinking that there's a sequel to it and I really want to read it if there ever is one.

It's important to remember (I'm talking to myself) that there may be negative reviews as well.  It happens to the best artists, directors, authors and people in general.  So taking what one person has to say about your work/creation and focusing on it too much is dangerous. But for today, I am happy to share these great words. 

"This book is surprisingly good!...I really want to read (the sequel) if there ever is one."

That is all for now.  Wishing you and yours a relaxing Thanksgiving.  Remembering to give thanks to our Lord and Savior.  He is Good, All the Time!

Thankful for... (part2)

NOVEMBER 8

Oh wouldn't the FlyLady be proud of me?  All except for the fact that I actually had all this extra stuff in my house.  I am so thankful to have a place like the Open Door Mission to donate good used items for people who are in need. One man's trash is another man's treasure.

NOVEMBER 9

Emma played volleyball for the first time this fall.  She did a great job

and even played in the championship game. I was a proud ex-volleyball

playing mama!  All three of my girls give me great reasons to have a camera. I

enjoy capturing moments of their ever changing lives.

NOVEMBER 10

Creativity is important to God...my family is proof of that.

I love my brothers and pray for them daily.

NOVEMBER 11

I have an amazing husband who can do it all...well not fix the car.  :)

I know God has special plans for you, he saved you as a baby so that you could

accomplish great things for his kingdom.  Already you have done so much,
all by God's grace. This month marks another great accomplishment...
The New Phenomenon!

To God all the glory!  Christopher, I love you. 

NOVEMBER 12

Fifteen months ago Chelsea and Allen (and sweet Naomi) came into our lives along

with several other amazing couples.  It started as a weekly bible study in our home.  It

has turned into a weekly gathering of people who love and support each other.

Friends are a blessing!

NOVEMBER 13

 If I could keep my girls in a bubble of protection forever, I would do it.

Looking in those big blue eyes and seeing nothing but innocence

is about the sweetest thing I can think of. 

NOVEMBER 14

Spending Thanksgiving 2010 with Aunt Delma was special but I had no idea

it would be our last one.  I am so grateful for the time we had together.

Thankful for...

I started keeping a gratitude journal about a year ago.

There are days that I am down in the dumps and feel like nothing

is going right.  All it takes to change my attitude is to look through

that journal.  How embarrassing it is to think that for one minute

I can feel anything but gratitude for the many many blessings in my life.

November is here and what better time than this to highlight some of those

blessings I journal about.  Keep in mind, these are in no particular order.

NOVEMBER 1

I was very excited when Chris asked me to help him pull vocabulary words from his manuscript for the teacher resource section on his website.  Most of my involvement with his novel has been holding down the fort so he could write or doing research.  This was a fun activity for me.

NOVEMBER 2

I know there have been years in the past that snow came in October, so November 2nd isn't that bad but I was very grateful to see the snow go away as quickly as it came.  So I was thankful for the beautiful scene and the warmer temps on the 3rd.

NOVEMBER 3

Emma loves music whether she is singing, dancing, playing her cello or just listening to the radio.

NOVEMBER 4

Not only did God give me a wonderful husband but He also gave me a man who loves his children and is willing to support them in whatever they do.  He even took a day off of work to spend at their elementary school (totally out of his comfort zone).

NOVEMBER 5

When I first told Olivia I had signed her up for basketball camp (one hour on 5 Saturday mornings) she firmly told me she was NOT going to go.  I talked her into going just once and then she loved it!

NOVEMBER 6

All three of our children are healthy and active.  What a blessing it is to watch them grow.
The girls eat well, exercise through play and have a healthy spiritual life.  Thank you God!

NOVEMBER 7

Today is the first day of Chris' birthday week which makes me remember all the nice things he did for my birthday last month.  (Again, he's a great guy!) So today my mouth waters as I look at this picture...I am thankful for yummy carrot cake.  I wish I had some hidden in the frig.  I guess I'll have to settle for a carrot instead.

It's easy to dwell on what isn't going right.

Sometimes I'm a Debbie Downer...I just hate that!

Today I chose to remember the blessings and give thanks for all I have.



"The New Phenomenon" Release

You're invited to celebrate the launch of Chris Raabe's new young adult novel, The New Phenomenon! Enjoy delicious food and of course, support Chris and buy a book (or three).
Chris will be signing the books that night, so remember all the young adults in your life that might like a book signed by the author this Holiday Season. (Babysitters, paper carriers, nieces and nephews will love this book.)

Roja Mexican Grill

171st & Center Rd, Omaha, NE

Come and go, any time between 6 PM and 9 PM.

Please bring a check or cash for book purchases. Sorry, no credit/debit cards.

Books will be on sale for $16 each (NE sales tax is included in the price).

Can't make it to this party? You can purchase it here:

http://www.writelife.com/NewPhenomenon/purchase.asp

*****

About the Book:


The New Phenomenon

Young Adult Fiction, 368 Pages


Every teenager wants to fit in, and Christian Pearson is no different. He is a phenomenon on the athletic field and in the classroom, but a terrifying accident on a fishing trip with his grandfather changes Christian's life forever. As he enters his freshman year of high school, Christian hides a secret that he plans to take to his grave. When the Pearson family moved from the city to the sleepy town of Red Oak, Iowa, before his freshman year of high school, Christian hoped for a smooth transition to small town life.


Being the new kid in school has been a blessing and a curse. Most of the boys in Christian's class view him as a threat, so Christian struggles to fit it, but as an outcast, his secret is safe. When three freshmen, all from the same family, start school a week late, Christian senses something different about these new students. He reaches out to "The Three" seeking some semblance of friendship in his new hometown. When "The Three" confront Christian about the secret he hides, Christian is faced with a huge problem. Will this secret cost Christian his friends, his family, his freedom, and even his life?

Halloween Havoc

For as much as I love to watch my kids' activities

I have to admit I was pleased to be attending Reagan's final

soccer tournament of the 2011 fall season.

Reagan and teammate Cat went out for the coin toss

Is it just me or does the ref look to be about 12 years old?

 I thought the next 4 pictures were pretty neat.

1. She stops the ball

 2. She pulls back the ball

 3. She Turns

4. She heads for the goal

So proud of the Comets this fall season.

White Out

WELCOME WINTER!

Yesterday the temps hit 70 degrees.

Now look at today's weather!!!

My kids will be very happy when they get out of school. 

Momma is not so happy.

The Book Is Here

Excited! 

Well that's a word but not one that sufficiently describes our emotions today.

Over 2 years ago, Chris began this literary journey.

In May of 2009 an author visited Chris' middle school. While he was a successful writer he was a terrible speaker.  Apparently, he was pretty proud of himself and wanted everyone to know it.  I remember Chris coming home and telling me about the visit. Chris said, "If I ever write a book I will care about my audience and be more willing to answer their questions."  Within the week, Chris started writing

THE NEW PHENOM3NON.

Six weeks later the novel was done.  It was at that point we realized the writing of the book was the easy part. How on earth would we ever get it published?

We thank WriteLife Publishing for taking a chance on a "nobody author".

So far it's been a journey of many unknowns.  We anxiously step into the next set of unknown twists and turns.  All the while we ask God for His guidance and wisdom. 

SAVE THE DATE:

Looks like our book launch party is set for November 22, 2011

We will have books for sale and autographs for free.  :)

You can pre-order books at http://www.writelife.com/ as soon as Chris approves the proof copy.

Ten to fifteen days after that, the book will be available on a variety of sites.  The best place to order is through the WriteLife website listed above.  Please remember to write a review of THE NEW PHENOM3NON.

 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.  Jeremiah 29:11

Monsterous Music

 This monsterous event was simply freightful delightful.

WHAT IT TAKES: Practice Practice Practice

RESULTS: Hauntingly Beautiful Music

Getting Emma to practice is like pulling teeth but the results are impressive to
say the least. It's exciting to watch Emma grow in her musical ability and her desire
 to learn. This year Emma is taking part in an honors orchestra OAYO that meets every
Saturdaymorning.  I wasn't sure if she would like giving up her mornings (when
she could be sleeping) but not once has she complained, in fact she looks forward to
playing with talented youth from all across the city.  She's even learning a little more
about  what productive practicing looks and feels like.  YAY! 
Turns out, mom isn't so dumb.  My idea of practicing actually works. 
Gotta love it when they find out you know at least one thing.  Ha

This collabrative event was sponsored by a local high school which meant each

middle school orchesta student had a high school partner to shadow and learn

from all day. You can't see many of the costumes from the pictures I have included,

the high schoolers  were verycreative with their costumes while most of the 7th/8th

graders skipped dressing up all together.

A good word for today...

"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbors and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven....If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect."

Matthew 5:43-48

Forty Minus One

 This is what THIRTYNINE looks like.

Tomorrow I start my 40th year of life. I'm not at all hung up on my age...it's just a number.

I remember as a young 20 something year old hearing a friend's sister say she was 28 and thinking, "geesh, that is so old".  What would that "young Melanie" say about me now?

If you know me, you know I LOVE celebrating birthdays. 

From time to time I might set my expectations so high that

it is nearly impossible for Chris to meet them.  This year we

both did a better job.  Today was a great day!

Chris came through with a very tasty cake from Nothing Bundt Cakes 

Carrot cake is always my cake of choice to celebrate my new year of life.

It all started our first year in GI, a dear lady from our church supplied us with the most fabulous carrot cake.  Since that year, it's been a must...GOTTA HAVE CARROT CAKE!

 A month ago, I sent Chris, Em and Reags a text with a very specific birthday request.

I wanted a silicone cover for my Nook Color (which by the way, I love my nook).

There were other covers that I liked but they are ridiculously price.  My dear

hubby went above and beyond to get me the newest, coolest cover.  Now my Nook

can stand on it's own.  Thanks Christopher!

 THE MAJORITY OF MY DAY

...was spent at the softball fields in Lincoln.

 Reagan's fall softball season came to an end today.

She had a great catch today as well as a great collision. 

Reagan is a pretty versatile player but spends most of her time in the outfield because she is so quick.  As the coaches daughter, she is the first one pulled out when parents complain about playing time.  It's a hard spot to be in but she takes it so well.

 

The Boo Bash is a fun tourney that allows the girls to dress up as a team

ANGRY BIRDS

 A little pep talk from Coach Gerdes before going to the plate

DISCLAIMER:
Chris and I have always said (and plan to stick to) that church comes before sports.  Friday and Saturday was pool play then today was the tournament, working towards a championship game.  God worked out the details for us...Thank you God!  Our first game was at over by 9am which left us enough time to drive back to Omaha, go to church and still get back to the fields by 1pm for a 2:00 game.  Nice!  The girls didn't make it to the championship game but they played well and had a great time. 
Kuddos to Pastor Mark...GREAT message today, what a blessing. I think this week was #7 of the Future Shock series.  If you are interested in a great series on the end times CLICK HERE. 

Owl Cupcakes to Celebrate

Good Morning Blog World! It's Thursday and I couldn't be happier. Today is a down day for me...I'm still in my jammie pants and sweatshirt at 9am.  LOVE IT!!  The girls are at school, the house is quiet, my bible study is done, laundry is going, the dishwasher is going and I have some whacked out hair.  You know, the "bedhead" that doesn't come in a bottle!  My coffee (even though I don't like the flavor of the beans I bought this time) is warm and soothing and now I am ready to blog.

There's a blog that I frequent, The Idea Room.  I don't know how that girl does it, she creates, finds and knows the coolest stuff.  Today when I stopped by I found a link to another blog with these super cute cupcakes and I had to share.  I know it would be better if I had actually made them, taken a picture and then posted my creation but to be honest, I'm not sure if I'll get all that done.  I'll let you know if I do.  Heather at Raising Memories also has some super cute ideas. 

Just in case you are unaware...this is my pre-birthday week. Some of you may not know about "pre-birthday weeks" they are big around here. For my actual birthday I like carrot cake but I'm thinking these cute little owls might hit the spot for a little early celebration.

Even Chris would not describe himself as a gift giver.  I mean if I tell him what I want, where to get it and when to give it to me he'll do it but it's not something he ever thinks of on his own.  On Monday I told him it was my "pre-birthday week" and I would really like some gifts. (it's my love language) He has come through like a champion. Keep in mind, I did not tell him what to purchase.

YELLOW MUM

I love mums and it really added something nice to my outside arrangement.

WATER BOTTLE

I enjoy water bottles.  It's the only way I can get myself to drink enough fluids

NEW CAMERA LENSE

It's a stretch to say Chris got this for me but he did approve the purchase

and in fact said something like, "Would you quit talking about it and just go buy it?" 

I'll take that as a gift.  :)

This weekend Reagan has a softball tournament which will give me lots

of opportunities to try out my new toy. 

BREAKING NEWS:

The external proof (book cover) arrived in Chris' email inbox on Tuesday.  He had just a few changes to make.  We are about to have a book ready for each of you to purchase.  I can't give you any links as of yet but trust me, we will supply the information to you as soon as we know it ourselves.  Plan on giving  THE NEW PHENOM3NON by Chris Raabe for Christmas gifts.

We have planned the day of the book release party but not that actual date...keep your Tuesday evenings open.  As soon as we know, you will know.  You all are invited.  It'll be a great opportunity to get a first edition signed copy of what I'm sure will soon be a New York Times Best Seller!  Hmm, wonder if we can get Oprah to "like" the book. 

Happy Thursday to each and every one of you.  May you look for and recognize the blessings God has instore for your life.

We Are Excited to Share...

What I was starting to think would never happen is getting closer.  This week we heard from Chris' publisher, WriteLife.  There's is good news.  We currently have the digital version of THE NEW PHENOM3NON which Chris needs to do the the final proof edit on 368 pages of text.  Don't you know he's a little busy this week with teaching, parent-teacher conferences, district softball and oh yeah he has a family too.  We are super excited so it will get done, just not this week.  I wish I could do it for him but he's the writer, I'm just a reader.

As soon as Chris approves the interior layout the book will go to the production queue.  The next step is finishing the cover of the book.  Above you can see the artwork created by Bruce McCorkindale they will soon be adding text and whatever else goes on the cover of the book.


Chris has a copyright and ISBN.  It's really happening.  This month, two years ago we sent the digital manuscript into the publisher praying that God would do something with this work to glorify Him.  It has certainly been in His hands the entire way.  I have been frustrated and impatient but my husband who usually sees the big picture better than I, kept reminding me that God has a plan.  Looking  back over the last year we had too much on our plate to be also marketing a novel. 

Thank you God for knowing what we need even when we are asking for something different!

Last night Chris and I again began to dream and brainstorm about the future of THE NEW PHENOM3NON.  We need help with marketing, again praying that God moves.  We had a great location for our book release party...they closed.  :(  So what is plan B?

Last night I finished reading THE HELP by Kathryn Stockett.  Just a little plug for her...it is a GREAT book!  I'm sure you have heard of it, there is also a movie out based on the book.  When I finished the novel there was information in the back about the author.  This is her first book.  Wow, way to hit it big the first time Kathryn!  I decided to research Kathryn a little bit and got sidetracked.  Apparently her brother's maid was the inspiration for a character in the book and sued Stockett because it was "embarrassing and degrading."  I'm not a black female maid so I can't speak as one but I can speak as a woman in general.  The way the white women in this book treated their help, even when they were nice, was not good.  If anyone is embarrassed it should be all  people who see themselves as better than another because of the color of their skin, among other things. 

Ok, I'm done talking about that.

Back to Chris' novel.  We really don't know how long these last few steps will take but we now know it will happen.  Go to Chris' web page or his facebook page The New Phenomenon to keep updated.  As we know, you will too.

Chris, I am so proud of you.  I love you!

Pooley's Pumpkin Patch

Four Classes (about 80 kiddos) of Kindergarteners at a pumpkin patch...that's a lot of little ones running, screaming and having the time of their life. Thank the Good Lord our school has parents who like to volunteer.  My group was 2 moms and four little girls.  I can handle that.  :) 

The girls all really liked holding the chicks, bunnies and kittens.

I couldn't help but wonder how these tiny creatures lived through all the well meaning but tourturous handling. 

 Olivia found the perfect pumpkin to bring home.

 Mom and Liv

What a blessing it is, that I have the freedom to enjoy time with my daughters both in and out of school. I am also thanking God for the quiet 20 minutes I have had to myself.  Now it's time to go watch Emma play volleyball, run to the chiropractor, Reagan has soccer tonight and we host couple's bible study.  Hope I have some time to vacuum before everyone comes over.  If not, I guess they will still love me just the same and maybe be relieved to know our house is messy too.

Take a moment today to thank God for the simple blessings He so generously gives you.  Even the roughest day has at least one pleasant spot...thank Him!