Monday, December 23, 2013

Update on 'Legacy of Grandpa's Grapevine

Lighthouse Publishers have passed on 'Legacy of Grandpa's Grapevine' with the reason of a 'memoir-like' fictional story does not fit their typical published genre. My little story will be sent to publishers in the New Year. I am confident someone soon will fall in love with the Manciano family, as much as I have creating them. "You have to come to your closed doors before you get to your open doors...What if you knew you had to go through 32 closed doors before you got to your open door? Well, then you'd come to closed door number eight and you'd think, 'Great, I got another one out of the way'...Keep moving forward." Joel Osteen

Sunday, December 15, 2013

Book Review: 'The Rancher's Second Chance' by Davalynn Spencer

     On a snowy New England weekend, I had a strange experience. My house was clean, the dog was sleeping and I had completed my writing tasks by early Saturday afternoon. I said to myself, 'Now what do I do?'  Hmmm... read a book!

    After spending the past few months using Facebook to help build my platform and researching what other authors do, I remembered a few author websites that really peeked my interest. One in particular was author Davalynn Spencer. As a New England girl who has traveled out west a few times, I fell in love with the area at first sight.  The west has great scenery, charming people and a value system that puts family & good friends above all else. Davalynn's country website and posts on Facebook caught my attention.

     I researched a few of her books and decided to download 'The Rancher's Second Chance'.  I made myself a cup of tea, plate of cookies and snuggled under one of my favorite blankets on the couch. As my dog, Maggie, found a comfortable spot beside me and the snow began to fall at a steady rate, I began to read the first chapter.  The story immediately makes you fall in love with Laura Bell. She not only is trying to start a new life on her own, but trying to do so while looking good among many embarrassing mishaps. We've all been there ladies!

     Davalynn Spencer has a unique way of sharing the male and female point of view & insecurities each sex has- and getting it right! I also loved the bit of knowledge gained about cattle ranching and living out west. Without giving away the ending, I want to know more about Eli and Laura Bell. So Davalynn, how about a sequel?


   

Monday, December 9, 2013

Technical Difficulties

Sorry for the lack of blogging on my website the past few months. I had some website issues, but all resolved now. 

I did post a few things on Facebook. I found the immediate response interesting and educational.  People I have never met would click like, share or comment. I asked a friend why she responded to my post on Facebook, but never added a comment to my website. Her response, 'It's just quicker on Facebook.'

I guess my agent was right- people like quick, to the point and pictures. If I blog using a list- even better! So, here it goes:
1. Book is still being read at Lighthouse Publishers.
2. I will have shorter blogs in the future.
3. Picture of my buddy-

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Watch Out- Here Comes Karma

     Karma. It almost sounds like someone's name.  Here comes Karma. You better watch out or Karma will get you? Don't worry, Karma will get them someday.  What exactly is Karma?

     Some people believe if you continue to do the right thing, while others remain evil- these evil people will have something terrible happen to them. Doesn't this make you an evil person, too? You are wishing revenge on someone, because they are following their free will.

     It's possible some may use Karma as a type of religion. You believe in a religion to provide some sense of purpose and solitude in life. When you 'follow the rules' and find yourself  being harassed or experiencing misfortune, while others who are not 'following the rules' are receiving fortune- the belief in Karma may provide strength.

     I will confess to hoping Karma would find it's way to a few people who have crossed my path in life. However, I can't tell you if anything actually happened. I guess I was just too busy moving forward. Maybe that's Karma!

Friday, August 23, 2013

Are you smart?

     We live in a world where adults, and unfortunately children, can answer very quickly if they are smart. At a young age, children are graded on their input & output of a myriad of subjects. During the pre-adult years, surveys and assessments determine their strengths to choose career paths. Adults are often asked at job interviews for their strengths and weaknesses; aka- what will I need an employee to teach you?

    No one can know everything. Does knowing everything mean you're smart? Does a certain score make you smarter than someone else? Who decides the score? Does the knowledge of certain subjects or career path make you smarter than others?  If you're quick to learn or complete a task, does this make you smarter than someone else?

     Some possible answers? The only time a person on earth will ever know everything, is when they are a mom or dad with adoring toddlers. Score charts, and tests, are developed & supported by businesses and politicians to rank-reduce-reuse. When I was without electricity for eleven days, I thought the man who chose to be an electrician was the smartest person in the world. The Army teaches recruits to 'walk to win, don't run to die'.

     I choose to define smart as knowing your true self & purpose, doing what is right- even when it is not popular and respecting others- no matter their age, race, occupation or score on a test.
    
    
    

    

Friday, August 16, 2013

Book Update

'Legacy of Grandpa's Grapevine' is now on its third edit. I hope this one is the charm. All goes well,  these revisions should be completed quickly and somewhat pain-free :-) I will keep you posted!

As always, please follow me on my Facebook page for instant alerts on the book progress and promotional contests.

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

I Choose Windmills

     I read a Chinese proverb recently, 'When the winds of change blow, some people build walls and others build windmills.' It got me thinking...

     People are really easy to figure out. You can separate everyone into two categories: people who accept change and people who do not. 

     People who accept change are open-minded, risk-takers, opportunists, resilient, productive, learners, fruitful, progressive...

     People who deny change are close-minded, resentful, competitive, self-centered, pessimistic, possessive, regressive, stagnate...

     Which category do you choose to be? Aspire to be? People you want to call friend, colleague or partner?

      I choose windmills :-)

Friday, July 26, 2013

Foolish Thought

     We've all been there. That certain age with those certain thoughts. You know...when you tell someone about your 'life plan'. The person you tell is usually older, smiling and nodding their head slowly. They let you talk and talk...and then they say something like 'best of luck to you' or 'sounds like you got it figured out'. What you don't see is them walking away with a huge grin on their face....that is, until you become of a certain age, when you realize 'what a fool I was to think someone could actually make a life plan'.

     Planning isn't all bad. I think there is a time and place to have a plan....taking a vacation, saving to buy a home, preparing for retirement. However, it's also healthy to realize your plans are written in sand and it's okay if, from time to time, a wave washes your plan away. I've found the most  rewarding experiences and favorite memories when my 'plans' dissolved. It's also during these times when a person finds their true character or sees it in someone else.

     'You make the plans and God will make the choice.' It's a quote from the book I am currently writing, Mama's Bookends.  The main character, Elizabeth, has her life totally changed from her 'plan' of what life was supposed to be. In the end, she wonders how she would have been happy any other way!
    

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

'Grandpa 's Grapevine': It's a Do-Over

    I loved being a kid! Now, being around a lot of kids everyday, is just as fun. Today, I like to hear from kids those things that remind me of my childhood. My favorite- the do-over! There is nothing better than getting the chance to do something over. Just one more chance and you know you can get it, or do it better!
    As a child, the do-over is reserved for the important things in life: kickball games, bike wheelies, or who can eat a Three Musketeer the fastest. As an adult, you don't hear many bosses giving a do-over. I'm not sure why people expect perfection when we reach adulthood. I like to believe we are all life-long learners. This is probably why I like writing so much. It is no big deal to do it over.
     And so, 'Grandpa's Grapevine' has been given a do-over.  No worries to anyone who has read the self-published version a few years ago. Grandpa Frank and Elizabeth will still be there! The plot has remained the same, it has just been revised/edited a bit :-)  When it is published, you will also notice the title has changed. Presently, it is to be called 'Legacy of Grandpa's Grapevine'. It is Book One of 'The Manciano Family Saga'. 
     This new direction will allow me to continue writing a few books about the Manciano family. I am presently working on Book Two, 'Mama's Bookends'. This story will combine with another story I was outlining- 'Walking With Angels'. I know you will enjoy the adventures Elizabeth has in Book Two and fall in love with some new characters too!
     I will keep you posted on my Facebook and my blog as to when 'Legacy of Grandpa's Grapevine' will be ready for purchase, and any bumps in the road during the process. I look forward to the coming months and will always be very thankful I was given a do-over!

Sunday, July 14, 2013

Are You the Best You?

     Recently, I was sorting through my books (yes, some people still have books) and discovered my large collection of self-help/motivational books. The titles on the book store shelves always catch my eye- 'Your Best Life Now' or 'Become a Better You'.

     While perusing through my collection, I begin to wonder why I bought the books. The lessons or advice provided seemed pretty common: be a life-long learner, don't join the negative co-workers, always be willing to help, etc.  I decided to donate the books to my local library, as I didn't see the need to keep any of them. Then, I stumbled across the book that contained every message all the other books were trying to teach. It is, in my opinion, the only book that should be passed along to every new employee and become the rules of every company. The book is by Robert Fulghum.

     'All I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindergarten' was first published in 1986. The rules Fulghum posted can, and should, be followed today to be the best you.

     1. Share everything.
     2. Play fair.
     3. Don't hit people.
     4. Put things back where you found them.
     5. Clean up your own mess.
     6. Don't take things that aren't yours.
     7. Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody.
     8. Wash your hands before you eat.
     9. Flush.
     10. Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you.
     11. Live a balanced life- learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and dance
     and play and work every day some.
     12. Take a nap every afternoon.
     13. When you go out into the world, watch out for traffic, hold hands and stick together.
     14. Be aware of wonder.
     15. Remember that everything/everyone will die one day; enjoy them now.

     I paraphrased a few of Fulghum's rules, but I think they are all important. I will try to remember them daily. Will you?
    
    

    

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

'Glimpses of Heaven': A Book Review

     'Glimpses of Heaven' by Trudy Harris is a great read for anyone who is dealing with the loss of a loved one or helping someone to pass with dignity and peace. The book is written as a collection of experiences Trudy, a Hospice nurse, has with her patients.

    The following quote from the book summarizes the message well:

    'All of life is a journey from the day we are born until the day we die. We are learning every
minute we are alive. No one, except the God who made us, knows what He put into each of our baskets of learning when we were conceived in our mother's womb. Only He knows the process by which we will grow to spiritual maturity and how easy or how hard the lessons will be for us. He will provide all the nourishment required to complete the journey well, but we have to be willing to learn from each and every person He puts on the path to teach us,whether or not we think the person is worthy of that role. In so doing, the underneath-threads, subtly woven by Him, will complete the tapestry of our lives, unseen by us.' (Harris, 177-178)

     'Glimpses of Heaven' is a quick read, but the myriad of stories from those who passed will linger in your thoughts.  Dying is really just the beginning of the journey home.

Monday, July 1, 2013

'Did You Know?' Video...I Didn't



     It's always nice to reflect on the 'good old days' and take pride in how much we have achieved as a society. It can also be a little scary when reminded of how quickly those changes happened, and continue to happen at an ever increasing rate of speed.

Sunday, June 30, 2013

Mean People Are Necessary

     I hope the title got your interest and maybe even raised your eyebrow! Yes, I did type correctly and I do believe that mean people are necessary. Think of a mean person you have met and, if you used the experience as a learning tool, you should have gained the following:
  
     1. Model for Inappropriate Behavior
     2. Self-control
     3. Resilience
     4. Tolerance
     5. Sense of Humor
     6. Respect from Others
     7. Perseverance
     8. Wisdom
     9. Maturity
    10. Sympathy
    11. Compassion
    12. Gratitude
    13. Acceptance
    14. Pride
    15. Knowledge of One's Self

     I am sure you can add to the list, and please do! I like the last one on the list the best- knowledge of one's self. When you encounter a mean person, you become aware of exactly who you are and what you believe in, because that 'mean person' differs with your ideals and visions dramatically. However, a mean person cannot agree to disagree, because they have not acquired enough knowledge & confidence of their own self to surround him/herself with differing thoughts or outlooks.
     If you remember this the next time you meet a mean person, it should be easy to move forward. And, be thankful, for you are confident in knowing who you are :-)
  

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Qualities of a Trustworthy Person

    In the latest edition of Reader's Digest (June 2013), people were surveyed to find the most trustworthy people and professions. They defined a trustworthy person as somebody possessing the following:
                          1.  Integrity
                          2.  Character
                          3.  Exceptional talent and drive for personal excellence
                          4.  Strong internal moral compass
                          5.  Consistent message
                          6.  Honesty
                          7.  Leadership

     The ten most trusted professions were as follows:
                          1. Doctors
                          2. Teachers/Educators
                          3. Movie stars
                          4. Philanthropists
                          5. Spiritual leaders
                          6. Journalists
                          7. Filmmakers
                          8. Talk show hosts
                          9. Judges
                         10. Professional sports stars
                         11. Business leaders
                         12. Financial experts
                         13. National political leaders
                         14. Political pundits
                         15. Influencers

     I find that about half of these professions don't match the definition used to define a trustworthy person. Are people confusing what they want to believe with reality? I also checked this list twice and noticed a very important profession was missing- parent. I believe the qualities of a trustworthy person are everything we want embedded in our children. How do we make that happen? By example of course.

Monday, June 24, 2013

Morning Manners

     Every morning I walk my dog. Every morning we pass the same people in cars driving to work, with their coffee cup in hand or talking on their cell phone. As every car passes, I wave and sometimes even say good morning. Please keep in mind the total of cars is probably less than twenty, but lately I've noticed something interesting.
   
     The people who return my wave live in my neighborhood. There is one other car that does not live in my neighborhood (it's actually a pick-up truck), and he always waves too. The other people who pass just stare forward. Some are even as bold to glance my way and then turn, as if to say 'sorry, no time to wave for two seconds'.

     Is it poor manners to not return a wave? Should I stop waving to every one? I've noticed the people that wave back are always smiling. Some have even stopped their cars at times to say 'I can set my watch to your walk' or 'your dog is adorable' (I like this comment the best!). It's also a nice feeling, as I start my walk every morning, to know the cars my dog and I will pass. They may even stop if we need help;especially from those black bears roaming my neighborhood!

     I'll keep waving...even to the people who don't wave back. Maybe, one day, one of the non-wavers will actually smile and tell me my dog is cute :-)

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Are Summer Picnics Extinct?

    For some lucky souls (like myself), summer vacation is two months or so- depending on your school district. I already have made a list of house projects and setting aside time to write and complete my next book. During the past few weeks, I listened to others discuss their plans (children too!) and not one mentioned going on a picnic.
    
     Are summer picnics extinct? Are we so busy planning the 'big vacations', we forget the importance of life's little pleasures. That's right, I said it- picnics are an important, little pleasure. Think about it....once you arrive at your destination, with picnic basket in hand, there is nothing left to do but eat, relax and talk. In a world where so many of us eat while driving, at our desk or in a meeting- it would seem to be a luxury to just eat-relax-enjoy the people with you.

     Is there a national picnic day? I guess I'll have to add that to my summer to-do list!

Monday, May 27, 2013

Memorial Day

      As I mentioned in March, my blog may occasionally be about something other than faith, family or life's challenges. Today is that day, sort of :-)  I don't think anyone would mind if I decided to post a short blog about saying thanks to all those who served to protect our freedom. 
 
     All those who served...not just soldiers, but the families left on the home-front to 'carry-on' and sacrifice life's luxuries or deal with harsh critics. WWII had gas coupons, Vietnam & Korea had a country divided by politics and our present war on terror has more people looking over their shoulder...and maybe realizing the greater value in things we can not place a value on.

     Today, (like most days) I hung my flag, made a cup of coffee, took my dog for a walk and posted some things on Facebook. I did not fear someone might demand I remove my flag, I chose any brand of coffee I wanted, I walked my dog anywhere I chose-wearing whatever I wanted- and I posted on Facebook without worrying if my comments would get me arrested.  Sounds weird, but read an excerpt from the June 2013 issue of the American Legion: 'The North Korean government has officially approved 18 hairstyles for women and 10 for men. The barber-shop-conformity campaign is part of a broader effort to clamp down on Western influences, the Daily Mail reports. This is a reprise of a 2005 campaign by Pyongyang aimed at making sure North Koreans trim (their) hair in accordance with Socialist lifestyle.'

      I bought a poppy this weekend. Did you?

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Do You Believe in Angels?

     I wasn't sure how to start this blog and I still don't! How do you begin a conversation about angels? Does anyone have any proof? I know there are plenty of books on the topic; which means there is at least one other person besides me looking for verification.

     Verification of angels? Will it ever be possible? I don't think so. Yet, with all the things I demand to be verified- I don't care if the verification of angels is ever achieved. I will always believe in their existence...even if others look at me a bit crazy. It's just impossible to believe in so many coincidences, close calls or 'saved in the nick of time' events.

     There has to be 'someone' looking out for us. How can our loved ones who pass just stop thinking of us? We don't forget them. The times in our lives we encounter hardships or need to make difficult decisions- we reflect on the wisdom & experiences of those loved ones who have passed. Sometimes, it's as if you can hear their voices. Are they watching us? Are they angels?

     Do you believe in angels?

    

    

    

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Ordinary People

     "It's playing a bad hand well over and over and over again." It's a quote from Bob Dotson and I like it! His answer was in response to an interview while promoting his book, 'American Story: A Lifetime Search for Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things'. The question: What is the secret to a successful life?
    
     During Bob's travels to interview 'famous' people, he realized their stories weren't as interesting as the person he was sitting next to on the plane or the waitress he met at a local diner. He began to enjoy these 'accidental interviews' and learned so much more from these 'ordinary' people.  I think Bob has discovered what so many travelers have known for awhile....we learn so much about ourselves and our history from talking to people who lived it...the daily stresses, happiness, uncertainty, riches and fears of life.

     In today's technical world, any person can create their own website, post a movie on you tube or have one thousand friends on facebook...and society may view this as famous or popular. Maybe so, but never successful. Success, to me, is playing the hand your dealt-fairly and wisely-and, even if failure results- you're still smiling and ready to try again!

    

    
    

Saturday, April 6, 2013

Doing the Right Thing in a Pile of Poop!

   How do you know what the right choice is? The world is filled with many greedy & egocentric people who will lead you down the wrong path, just to fulfill their needs.  As an adult, one may rely on mentors, life-experiences or-if fortunate enough-parents to help us through life's challenges. In 'Grandpa's Grapevine', Elizabeth had her Grandpa Frank to confide in and seek guidance.

    If you are not blessed with these options, keep reading.......

          The year was 1989 and the month was June. I was sitting in my theology class at Saint Paul Catholic High School. The classroom was filled with seniors awaiting graduation night. How could Father Mark possible keep our attention? And then, he told us a story....
  
'I know you are all excited about leaving high school, but I wanted to share something
with all of you. This world is filled with many types of people and sometimes life  may
be cruel. I pray you are blessed with meeting people who share your willingness to do
what's right, but sometimes these people are dressed like a sheep, but their souls are  a   
wolf. Listen to my  story-

Once there was a litle bird who lived in New England. Every year, he and his feathered friends flew south for the winter. One fall, this little bird decided not to fly south, he wanted to see what winter was like. He was doing all right until January came along. It became so cold and the little bird knew he just wouldn't survive. So, he began to fly south. As he was flying, the air became so cold that the bird's wings became frozen. The bird propelled to the ground like a helicopter with engine failure. He landed in a large field with no one around for miles. The bird knew he would die...it was hopeless. And then, just when he thought it couldn't get any worse, a cow came over and pooped on him! The little bird thought to himself- 'great, now I am going to die all alone and with poop on me....can life get any worse!' Then, something happened....the warm poop actually began to thaw the bird's wings! The little bird became so excited he started to chirp loud and proud! In the distance, a cat heard this chirping. The cat followed the noise and found the pile of poop. The cat thought to himself- 'there is a bird under that pile of poop....what a great lunch he would be!'  So, the cat licked off the poop and ate the bird!

     Then, Father Mark paused for a moment and looked at our expressions before he spoke. There are three morals to this story and I hope you remember each one as you make life choices. First, the people in this world who poop on you aren't always your enemies. Second, the people who help clean off the poop aren't always your friends. Third, if you're ever in a pile of poop- keep your mouth shut!



Saturday, March 16, 2013

My nomination for 'No Acronym Day'

    Last night, while watching the ABC World News, David Muir mentioned an upcoming story about the world's greatest obit. I thought to myself, 'obit...what's an obit...' and naturally, I stayed tuned and waited for this segment. In a few short moments, I learned obit was the shortened version for obituary.

   Really? Is there so much news to share within thirty minutes, that even an educated journalist/public speaker needs to use the same 'shorthand english language' as a high school student? Have we evolved into such egocentric citizens as to think that no one is worth one hundred percent of our time to have a complete conversation?

   Can we have a day where no one can say app? Just one day when it's illegal to say BTW or BFF? Can I be so forward as to ask that everyone, for just one day, check their email for spelling mistakes before they send it? Please, let me think your message to me is worth your time :-)

   I recently completed a novel, 'Grandpa's Grapevine'. The main characters are Grandpa Frank and Elizabeth. In the story, Elizabeth talks about her love and admiration for her Grandpa Frank, because he was always there to listen and provide guidance. Life moved a little slower when you were with Grandpa Frank and everyone he spoke with felt special. 

   What do your written and oral words say about you?
  

Monday, March 11, 2013

Blogging, Facebook and Stuff

     Recently, I started a Facebook page. Although I am probably a little late with starting a page...
 I'm happy to join the club. I find it interesting what other people find interesting! It's also a great way to stay in touch with people I don't get to visit very often.
    
     In addition to the Facebook page, I started another page on Facebook titled 'Writings of Linda Massucci'. After some discussion with my agent, I decided the main theme of this page would be faith and family. These topics follow my style of writing. I will also post updates on the progress of my books on this page.

     My weekly blog will also pertain to faith and family. Occasionaly, I may venture off to another topic, most likely about my dog or a current event that I just need to comment on! I appreciate any comments or thoughts from readers :-)
                                                                             

Sunday, March 3, 2013

Was Life Better In The 80's To Be A Kid?

     In my soon to be released novel, "Grandpa's Grapevine', the main character is Elizabeth Manciano. Elizabeth is a child of the 80's and, while facing the challenge to write Grandpa Frank's eulogy, often reflects on her childhood. My research to complete the novel (and some personal experiences) has me wondering- was life better in the 80's to be a kid?
    Audiences applauded when the boy's bikes rose in the air to save E.T. from the bad guys, children and adults were baffled by the rubrik cube and everyone watched the Cosby Show on Thursday night...or taped it with this new gadget called a VCR. Walkmans only played cassettes, but these things called CDs made their appearance- in 1982 no household had one, but by 1989, 150 million CDs were sold! In sports, a bunch of amateur hockey players kicked some Soviet butt and ladies were finally allowed to run the 26.2 marathon- before this, it was believed the distance would be harmful to women.
   Let's not forget Michael Jackson, the Boss and Billy Joel...the Rat Pack... the Big Chill...When Harry Met Sally...and most importantly- during the 80's- Saturday Night Live was really funny!  Brad Pitt was guest starring on Growing Pains, Drew Barrymore was in rehab and no one thought Rob Lowe could rebound his career. Last, but not least, is there anyone out there who doesn't walk onto a cruise ship without looking for Julie McCoy or Captain Steubing? 
   What do you think?                                                        

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Building a Platform

I started a blog recently. I've been told it helps to build a platform during the beginning stage of publishing a book. Well, I am definitely in the beginning stage and my platform has a long way to go! Which is why my agent probably recommended the book by Hyatt, 'Building a Platform'...catchy title, yes? It seems like everyone has a book on how to become successful or master the true you in this life :-) I believe if you are doing what you love, you are successful. And mastering the true you? Doesn't that come with age and experience? Okay, I will continue to read the book. I will try to blog more and build a platform. My  blogs at times will be  book updates, random thoughts or a sneak-peek about the characters in my books. I hope you continue to come back to my site and see what's new...maybe even send a question or comment now and then. I'll let you know when I finish my platform!

Friday, February 8, 2013

Daily Inspirations

Every morning, I have a cup of coffee and check my email.  I subscribe to DailyInspirational.com  and it's always the first email I open! Isn't it funny how a great quote or photo puts you in a different 'frame of mind'? Sometimes, I find it serves as a gentle reminder to not 'sweat the small stuff', follow your heart, or to be true to yourself and surround yourself with forward thinkers. Favorite quote for today- 'We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give'. -Winston Churchill

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Winter Blues

Anyone who lives in New England knows about the 'winter blues'.  The desire to sit outside in the evening on your porch swing and listen to the katy-dids is overwhelming.  You gaze out your kitchen window for hopes of seeing the daffodils starting to make their appearance. Will the snow ever melt? When is the last time I will use the snow blower and allow my snow shovel to collect cobwebs until next November? One can only hope the day will arrive soon....no matter what the Farmer's Almanac may say! Until then, happy thoughts and dreams of the best summer ever.