Elizabeth – 31 Days of Make Believe, Day 31 October 31, 2008

Elizabeth Channel is our final blogger for 31 Days of Make Believe! When I asked her about her online name, she said, “I took the name “Three Channels” for my site because I have three children, which are each on their own unique channel and therefore require me to be on three different channels at once!  Three Channels also alludes to my interest in writing humor, stories with a theme of Christian inspiration, and tales of dealing with a special needs child–and sometimes combining all three.  I am also drawn to the concept of three channels because it serves as an allusion to the Trinity—Father, Son & Holy Spirit.”

She also told me that the name “Elizabeth” is her middle name in “real life,” and Channel was a natural last name.

www.vanpan.com

Elizabeth has a fantastic blog called Three Channels. It’s best to let her tell you about it. “I’m a quirky Christian, “accidental” homeschool mom with three small children, one of which is a gifted child with sensory processing and attention issues.  Right now we are in the middle of what feels like “diagnosis roulette,” and while that is at times quite painful and trying, it can also be ridiculously funny.  I write about various therapies we are involved with, including Interactive Metronome and the Gluten-Free/Casein-Free diet. I also try to find the humor in the theatre-of-the-absurd that is simply life with small children.  Let’s face it.  Life is ridiculously funny.  And God is the author and perfector of humour, just as He is of our faith.

“On a slightly more serious note, and I try to step back and see how my life fits within the larger story God is writing. I also occasionally blog at my husband’s site.  This blog’s sole aim is to chronicle how the children and I are slowly, but effectively, rendering a 2005 Chrysler Town & Country minivan uninhabitable.  Readers are welcome to submit photographs of their own cars, SUVs, or vans in various states of disarray and filth, and have them posted within a vanpan story.  They can then receive a keen button lauding them as a “vanpan fan!” I enjoy being dramatic.”

*Now for the Make Believe Part*

What did you always want to be when you grew up as a kid? Why?

At the age of 5, I won first place in my elementary school’s talent show, singing “Jeremiah Was a Bullfrog.”  Ever since then I wanted to be a singer.  I tried out for Opryland at age 15 – so far this dream has not caught fire…

What is your favorite fairy tale and why?

The Emperor’s New Clothes is my current favorite because it speaks to our American culture’s desire to fit in and be accepted no matter what the price.  I firmly believe many Americans are exhausted by our culture and dissatisfied with the unrealistic expectations created by changes in our culture. I feel like “busy-ness” is robbing us of the joy and peace we could enjoy.  Just like the emperor who was always striving for the latest and greatest, we too, move forward at a frenzied pace, thereby missing the greatest blessings of all.

It is the night of the big ball. The one you are destined to marry is among the crowd, so you’ve dressed your best. Describe your outfit.

I’m wearing a v-necked white tee, not too long but long enough, and faded jeans with brown and black snakeskin clogs.  Yet near my collarbone is a tiny, jeweled frog pin with garnet eyes given to me by my grandmother.  This is the way my prince will know it’s me.

Your life has been selected to be featured in an upcoming fairy tale style movie. What is the title and premise?

“Elizabeth in Boots”

A 40-something mother of 3 finds a pair of rare boots worn by the Dred Pirate Robert in a thrift store, has them authenticated by a local historian and is able to sell them on Ebay for $120,000.

You need to be rescued. Where are you and what is going on around you? Describe the scene as your hero approaches.

My hero opens the kitchen door, waltzes across the mud-encrusted tile with magic marker lines deeply embedded in the unsealed grout.  Three children with blue magic marker slathered over their faces dance about the kitchen, their hair slicked into spikes with excessively-expensive Aveeda hair mousse.  “We don’t like asparagus.  We don’t like asparagus.  We don’t like asparagus.  Shoot the bad asparagus!” these warriors chant over and over and over.

I lie in a heap on the floor, my head covered in several soiled linen dishtowels—gifts from my mother-in-law to be cherished, ironed and used when hand-washing fine china.  If I ever get to a point where I am able to actually use fine china, I guess I’ll thrill to these linen clothes; now I simply use them to wipe up smashed grapes and spilled apple juice.

My hero whisks me up from the dried Cheerio crumbs and embedded craisins, carries me to the van where he takes me away to a mountain top hike…complete solitude and silence…where I can actually think…

Crystal – 31 Days of Make Believe, Day 31 October 31, 2008

Crystal Unrau is best known in the online world as Chrys. She says, “My friends and family have called me Chris since I was a little girl but in high school I dated a boy who refused to spell it traditionally because it was to boyish. Silly right? Cause it sounds the same either way, lol. But, when I started networking online a few years ago I decided to use it because while I often find other Crystals in the chat room, I’ve never bumped into a Chrys, so it makes me unique.”

Crystal is another busy online lady. When asked about her blogging endeavors, she says, “I have a few blogs. My favorite is Moms In A Blog where I am the co-founder and I write about news and décor.  I also have my personal blog – Pearls & Peridots. The name, Pearls & Peridots, is my June birthstone and my husband’s August birthstone.  On this blog I write about my kids, life, work, my walk with God, my friends, etc. Whatever strikes my fancy.”

“I also write for 2 wedding blogs. I am a wedding addict, who has been lucky enough to also land a dream job IN the wedding industry. On Budget Dream Weddings, I write about things I learn or find that would help a bride on a small budget, and on Wedding Style Diva I write about all the wedding stuff that catches my eye but isn’t so budget friendly.”

*Now for the Make Believe Part*

What did you always want to be when you grew up as a kid? Why?

I remember wanting to be a teacher for quite a few years, mainly because they were “in charge” and I have always been a bit bossy lol. In Grade 6, I got my hands on a book about designing houses and was immediately hooked. Until I entered Grade 10, my plan was to attend University after high school and earn a degree in architecture. That changed when I majored in design in high school and discovered that I LOVED it as a hobby, but hated having to do it to other people’s specs and time lines.

What is your favorite fairy tale and why?

Oh my. You know, I’d love to see someone write a fairytale about a princess who meets Prince Charming, gets married and then goes on to actually have a life. You know – children, laundry, dishes, stretch marks, aging, etc. That’s my kind of happily ever after lol.   I suppose though, my favorite is probably Beauty & The Beast because it’s not just a cute girl and a Prince Charming. Belle falling for the beast is a little more like love then this “you are so hot, I love you instantly” stuff in most fairytales. Love is about how you treat each other – not how you look. Great lesson!

It is the night of the big ball. The one you are destined to marry is among the crowd, so you’ve dressed your best. Describe your outfit.

Did I mention I have a wedding addiction? Oh I did? Okay then – I would imagine it would be white, with a soft, feminine flowing skirt that falls elegantly to the floor and shimmers just right under the lights. No ball gown for me, it would be elegant with just a bit of detailing on the bodice to make it unique. Sophisticated and mature with a bit of modern look to it, but still classically feminine. Wow – I am demanding aren’t I?

Your life has been selected to be featured in an upcoming fairy tale style movie. What is the title and premise?

My fairy tale would be Finding My True Ever After, the tale of a young princess who losses her way and ends up as a teen mother. The movie follows her struggles to adjust to life as a new mother and a young wife, facing the realities of parenting and marriage head on. As she struggles to find her place in this scary new adult world, she learns to understand her own strengths, her relationship with her Lord, and the true meaning of Love.

You need to be rescued. Where are you and what is going on around you? Describe the scene as your hero approaches.

Ad deadline approaches and I am busy beyond comprehension. My head is pounding and my inbox is about to explode. Between client meetings and house chores, I need time with my children and I just can’t make it fit so my house is getting really messy. Prince Charming arrives, apron in hand. He presents me with a gift certificate to a local family restaurant where I can relax and spend time with my babies for the evening, talking about school and bonding. I return just in time for Prince Charming to whisk the kids off to get ready for bed. The house is spotless, the laundry is caught up, and my desk is set up ready for me to get to work. As I catch up on my work, Prince Charming gives me a lovely foot massage and a pedicure.

Carol – 31 Days of Make Believe, Day 30 October 30, 2008

Carol is the owner of Carol’s Country Candle (which just also happens to be the screen name she ususally uses for her online work).

On her blog, Carol’s Country Candles, Carol likes to blog about sales, new products, customer comments and product reviews. She also likes to promote fellow business owners’ blogs, giveaways and sales.

*Now for the Make Believe Part*

What did you always want to be when you grew up as a kid? Why?

Actually it was my mid to late teens, I started reading historical romance novels and always wanted to be the heroine in those stories.  They were always beautiful, strong willed women, so I thought it would be great to take their place.

What is your favorite fairy tale and why?

Cinderella

What  young girl doesn’t dream of the handsome prince choosing you to try on the glass slipper, then whisking you away to a magical land of happily ever after?

It is the night of the big ball. The one you are destined to marry is among the crowd, so you’ve dressed your best. Describe your outfit.

Gown is deep royal velvet blue with lace overlay over the entire full skirt in the same royal blue. The fit bodice is off the shoulder with short puff sleeves that continue with long fitted sleeves to the wrist. Shoes are low heeled, especially made of the same velvet to match the dress.

Your life has been selected to be featured in an upcoming fairy tale style movie. What is the title and premise?

“The Redneck and the Gentleman”

The hero (my husband) hard working provider, great father, wonderful best friend, tries to cope with everyday life living with his redneck, can make a sailor blush with her swearing, mother of 3 boys, empty nester wife. Would probably be the first comedy fairy tale that does not have a happy ending. The gentle is forever stuck with his redneck wife.

You need to be rescued. Where are you and what is going on around you? Describe the scene as your hero approaches.

I am on a ship. The sails are full with the wind of the storm. The handsome captain is trying to keep the ship afloat thru the blinding rain that is stinging his flesh from the force of the wind. I did not listen to the captain, and remain below. Instead, my curiosity led me to the main deck, slippery with the rain. It is hard to keep my footing on the rain soaked deck. The wind is forcing me ever closer to the edge. The captain, see this, is torn between saving me or saving his ship.

He takes the leather belt from around his waist, and lashes the wheel of the ship to its pedestal, to keep the ship as steady as possible in the storm.

With this done, he dashed across the rain soaked deck, to catch me, just before the wind forces me over the edge.

(I have read a lot of steamy romance novels in my time!)

Debra – 31 Days of Make Believe, Day 29 October 29, 2008

Debra-Lynn B. Hook is the infamous GumboMama online. Despite living now in Ohio, she has roots in New Orleans and can make an amazing gumbo, even if she has to go to three different stores to find okra.

Debra blogs on Journey in Parenting, which is, as Debra puts it:

“Live, up close and personal, with teens;

Live, up close and personal, with pre-teens.”

*Now for the Make Believe Part*

What did you always want to be when you grew up as a kid? Why?

A weather(wo)man. I was fascinated by barometric pressure. Also, my mother loved the weather report, and anything my mother loved, I did.

What is your favorite fairy tale and why?

Dumbo. (Can that pass as a fairy tale and I just realized it rhymes with gumbo!) Because the underdog — in this case, the elephant, wins. Because his mama loves him, when nobody else does.

It is the night of the big ball. The one you are destined to marry is among the crowd, so you’ve dressed your best. Describe your outfit.

Palest blue, flowing chiffon dress like Julie Andrews’ dress when she dances on the moonlit patio with Captain Von Trapp in The Sound of Music. Hemline gently brushing the knee. Gossamer sleeves off shoulder. Low square cut neckline gently revealing great pecs.  Strappy sandals easy to slip off. Hair up with little pieces falling in front. Lightest dusting of glitter on the shoulders, on the chest, on the eyelids. Romantic and demure, but come hither, too.

OR

Short, sleeveless black dress with strappy low heels. No makeup or jewelry, just red nail polish on the toes. Hair worn long and side swept. Natural. Sexy.

Your life has been selected to be featured in an upcoming fairy tale style movie. What is the title and premise?

Little Debbie Finds Herself

The story is about a woman who has been of search of Truth ever since her First Communion. The nuns told her not to touch the host she was carrying on her little gold plate up to the altar and to the priest, who was the Designated Toucher, who would pick up the host and place it on her tongue when they met at the altar. She didn’t know whether hell would break open, or heaven. But as she walked toward the altar with her comrades — plip! She touched it. When nothing happened, she began a quest for the Real Truth that eventually took her to every corner of the world, to every guru, living and dead, to every religion and every philosophy. She ultimatey finds in a castle in Austria a bored young prince who is likewise disillusioned. Together, they run away and climb Mt. Everest. They stand on top of the world and declare there is no truth, only love. The song, All You Need I Love, by The Beatles closes the movie.

You need to be rescued. Where are you and what is going on around you? Describe the scene as your hero approaches.

I am in Darfur where I have gone to stop the genocide. I am in the refugee camp, doling out rice when I hear shouts and the sound of many horses’ hooves. I look off into the distance and see a band of men, wearing blindfolds and face masks. I hear the murmurs in African of “American woman! American woman!” The bad guys are coming for me. I cannot move. My arms and legs are frozen in place, even as people are running all around me, begging me to run for cover. In this instant, out of nowhere, I feel arms gently, but firmly, pulling me up, up and away. I look up and into the eyes of a man who looks very much like Brad Pitt. He holds me to his side on his very big horse, while he puts a hand out to the band of approaching marauders. “Stop,” he says in the dialect of the Darfur village where we are. Then he begins to speak, telling the band of horsemen something that makes them turn around and go back from whence they came. Together, Brad and I go on to work, not only saving the refugee camp from more starvation and disease. But he and I go into the camp of the enemy and hold summit talks that convince them to stop all the genocide.

OR

I am a journalist in Alaska where I have gone to find the truth about Sarah Palin.  I get in over my head when I start asking the wrong people the wrong questions. I am in a bar in Juneau, surrounded by hunters with rifles pointed at my head, as they wait for the sheriff to come and take me away. Just then, the editor of The New York Times, who looks an awful lot like Brad Pitt, shows up. “Unhand her,” he says. He takes me away and together we find the truth about Palin and then we move to NYC and live in a loft apartment where we find the truth about Michael Jackson, Tom Waits and what was bothering Heath Ledger.

Jen – 31 Days of Make Believe, Day 28 October 28, 2008

Jen@Happily-Ever-After-Land says that the only online name she has ever used is JenEverAfter.  The significance is that her mama thought she was naming Jen something unique and original, but found out after the fact that Jennifer was the #1 name for that year, so now she has to call herself something else, so as not to confuse people.

On her blog, Happily-Ever-After-Land, Jen tries to be funny.  Jen says “I think I succeed at being mildly amusing.  There’s a lot of material in parenting, so a lot of my posts revolve around that.”

*Now for the Make Believe Part*

What did you always want to be when you grew up as a kid? Why?

I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up.  Zero.  Zilcho.  Not even a clue.  Not even one of those girls that dreams of being a “mom.”  To this day, I’m still trying to figure it out.

What is your favorite fairy tale and why?

At the moment, my favorite is Cinderella.  When she sees a picture of Cinderella and Prince Charming, my almost-two-year-old says, “Mommy!  Daddy!”  Yeah, she thinks that’s us, and I think that’s adorable.  The song I sing her to sleep with every night comes from that Disney movie.

Have you ever read the original from the The Brothers Grimm?  Disney had to, umm, rework it quite a bit.  A lot less blood in the Disney version.

It is the night of the big ball. The one you are destined to marry is among the crowd, so you’ve dressed your best. Describe your outfit.

My outfit is a gold halter-top and black pleather pants and a Victoria Secret bra that’s letting the secret out!  That was the outfit I was wearing when my Prince Charming spied me from across the room, and that’s the one I’m keeping!

I still have that outfit packed away.  We went to the Reagan Library not too long ago, and they had several of Nancy Reagan’s outfits on display, arranged by decade.  I could just imagine hubby becoming president someday, and my gold halter-top outfit on display, and me sending a memo to the curator telling him that if the display is to be accurate, the bottom of the halter top should be folded under, as far up as it will go, so as to display the rhinestone dangling belly button jewelry to its utmost.  I can’t wait to be America’s first slutty First Lady!

Your life has been selected to be featured in an upcoming fairy tale style movie. What is the title and premise?

I think they already made it.  “Major Payne.”

You need to be rescued. Where are you and what is going on around you? Describe the scene as your hero approaches.

Did I mention my husband is in the Navy?  We are almost at the end of his fourth deployment, so I can assure you that if anyone is recuing anybody, it will be ME rescuing MYSELF!

I don’t know what I did to deserve this kind of luck, but whenever that man steps foot off the Continental U.S., the whole house falls apart!  I’ve dealt with bugs, mice, medical issues, buying and selling houses, grass as tall as a jungle, more bugs, more mice, and currently my ceiling is falling down!

But I do know one thing for sure – if it was REALLY important, a life or death kind of thing, my husband would move heaven and earth to get to me.  He’d swim across the ocean if he had to (and he probably could, he’s a tri-athlete!) .  I never dreamed I would have a man that loved me as much as that.  I couldn’t even imagine what that felt like, until it actually happened.

I used to watch romantic movies and listen to heart-felt songs and long for someone to love me like that.   Now I watch those movies and hear those songs and I smile because I’m living that life.

The stars of our own fairy tale!

Stiletto Mom – 31 Days of Make Believe, Day 27 October 27, 2008

The Stiletto Mom can also be seen online as Diva_224. She says she rarely uses it anymore but she still loves it.   Diva was her job title at Yahoo – it said it on her business cards and everything – and 224 was her employee number. She says, “It was amazingly cool to have been part of the ground floor team that built something so fundamental to the way we use the Internet today.  I’ve had to move on but none of my user names have been very inspired after that one.   I am proud to say, however, that I am still a Diva, through and through.”

The Stiletto Mom is a blog about everything that comes to mind…as long as it’s funny.   Her kids, her husband, her work life; but her favorite thing to blog about is when she sees someone acting really goofy, especially someone she doesn’t know. She qualifies this blogging approach by saying, “My golden rule is, if it’s funny, it’s good to go, but if it hurts someone…no way.”

*Now for the Make Believe Part*

What did you always want to be when you grew up as a kid? Why?

This is two part answer for me as I’ve changed over the years.

In my earliest years, I wanted to be a nun.   Those of you who know me can just stop laughing right now…I was different then, I was six.    Who knew I would turn out like this?

When I got a little older, I wanted to be a journalist and a lawyer.   (Ok so that makes this a three part answer…I can’t count, thankfully mathematician was never part of my thought stream)     The journalist came from me being part of a long line of reporters and writers.   The lawyer part came from the sheer joy I got having an argument with someone and never backing down.    I’m still good at that part, just ask my husband.

What is your favorite fairy tale and why?

Tough one.  I loved Cinderella growing up….the blue dress, those shoes?   Come on.  The scrubbing the floor part?  Not so much.

I also loved Sleeping Beauty, because, well she got to sleep a lot.    Who doesn’t love that?

I’d have to go with Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs because the thought of happy little animals and seven (albeit very small) men doing all your work for you whenever you sing?     Yep, that’s my kind of life.  (When I sing now, small animals cry in pain and the small people, my children, cover their ears and flee.)   I’d have to rename the dwarfs though.   I’m thinking Flirty, Studly, Handsome, Flattering, Chef, Richey Rich and Hero.

It is the night of the big ball. The one you are destined to marry is among the crowd, so you’ve dressed your best. Describe your outfit.

Do we have an unlimited budget to work from here?   Fantasy…yes, we do!   Ok so then I’m shopping with my Black American Express card on Rodeo Drive!    Come with me everyone, I’m buying!

The dress would have to be a Reem Acra custom.    If it’s good enough for Angelina Jolie, it’s good enough for me.   Deep garnet red, fitted at top with a little bit of tasteful beading, cinched at my tiny (make believe mind you) waist, with a flowing skirt of the lightest chiffon with a tiny bit of shimmer.

For shoes, I’d have to stick to a classic, Jimmy Choo.   Gold, stiletto…(obvioiusly) no beading but with intricate little straps.   Also?   Since this a fantasy, they would be comfortable so I didn’t have to approach my future husband barefoot after having given up on the shoes or worse, limping.   The shoes would also have the magical ability to make me dance well, not like Elaine on Sienfeld which is closer to my normal style.

Your life has been selected to be featured in an upcoming fairy tale style movie. What is the title and premise?

“Shoes…A Love Story”

“Shoes” follows a girl in her life and her quest for the biggest shoe closet on the planet.     The main character is a hard working sales rep by day, and internet blogger extraordinaire by night.    Sure, she has the perfect marriage and two great kids but what she doesn’t have is an unlimited shoe budget or a husband who appreciates her need for at least 20 varieties of black shoes.

Magically overnight, her company is sold and she cashes in.    She is also approached by no fewer than 10 publishing houses with a 7 figure guarantee on a book deal.    Instantly, her life changes and music is cued as she walks into Neiman Marcus (sorta Pretty Woman style).   A box carrier is employed to carry the massive amount of shoes out for her and when she gets home, her husband has crafted the ultimate shoe closet for her out of the left wing of their house complete with glass enclosures and rotating platforms.     But he is not done yet, after allowing her to model all of her purchases and gushing  over her choices he says, “But wait, darling.   What about those new Christian Louboutain’s in the 3.5 inch heel?  The black ones?  You really need those…now go back and get them honey.   I’ll be here whipping up some Lobster Thermidor because you really need to put on some weight.”

You need to be rescued. Where are you and what is going on around you? Describe the scene as your hero approaches.

This one is impossible for me to answer.   Mainly because I’m a little too headstrong to allow myself the thought of being rescued.     If this is fantasy, then I’m going to have magical powers to make all the bad things in everyone’s life disappear.   No more loneliness, no more heartbreak, no more fear for a childs future or your own.    No more worrying about your spouse or finances in this horrible economy, no more divorce or death or sickness.   If I was magical, and I could be a hero, those are the things I would fix for all of you.

…and that little part I mean with all my heart.

Tara – 31 Days of Make Believe, Day 26 October 26, 2008

Tara Gerner-Ziegmont prefers the name “Feels like home” for her online endeavors. Shortly after the birth of her daughter, she kept hearing the song by Chantal Kreviazuk called Feels like home. Her words, “It feels like home to me, it feels like I’m right where I belong” stood out to Tara every time she heard them. Tara says, “I had always thought I’d be a single professional woman for the duration of my life, and I liked that plan. But then, I met my husband, got married, and got pregnant. I liked that life, too, and after our baby was born, I knew that I was right where I belonged. More than ever, my life feels perfect to me. It feels like home.”

Tara’s blog is the Feels Like Home Blog. She blogs about everything in her life. She blogs about her daughter and being a parent. She blogs about food and recipes. She blogs about assorted other things like homemaking, being frugal, product reviews, her cats, her friends, her home-based graphic design business, and a myriad of other things. Tara says she tries to keep her blog funny and light, though it is occasionally serious, too.

*Now for the Make Believe Part*

What did you always want to be when you grew up as a kid? Why?

I always thought I’d become a biochemist. I didn’t know what a biochemist did or even what biology and chemistry were, but the whole thing sounded interesting. And I just knew that I’d be famous.

What is your favorite fairy tale and why?

Okay, I’m going to be honest and not at all funny here. I apologize in advance. My favorite fairy tale has always been Beauty and the Beast. I’ve been overweight for my entire life, and I always imagined that I’d someday become thin and beautiful because a man loved me. Isn’t that sad? I’ve been fortunate to grow up and realize that I don’t need to be skinny to be beautiful, and my Dear Husband loves me just the way I am. But I still love that fairy tale, especially the Disney version.

It is the night of the big ball. The one you are destined to marry is among the crowd, so you’ve dressed your best. Describe your outfit.

Two words: RED SEQUINS! Actually, it’d be similar to my wedding dress (which was off the shoulder and trimmed out in red), but all red and flashy. Woohoo! I’d be a seriously hot momma.

Your life has been selected to be featured in an upcoming fairy tale style movie. What is the title and premise?

The title of my fairy tale would be (is?) Feels like home. The premise is that a girl who thinks she has everything she’s ever wanted becomes a devoted mother who lives happily ever after (as a SAHM! Ha!) nearly overnight.

You need to be rescued. Where are you and what is going on around you? Describe the scene as your hero approaches.

I need to be rescued from Arachnia. There are spiders swarming closer and closer, getting ready to make a meal out of me, when my husband, the amazingly fast and deadly-accurate-with-a-flyswatter Joseph, swoops in with big boots to stomp on the dangerous creatures and saves me from certain death.

Caroline – 31 Days of Make Believe, Day 25 October 25, 2008

Caroline (also known as Morningside Mom) was inspired by a local name but for her favorite username. Caroline says “I just found this name was very ironic for me. I was never a fan of mornings – however being a mother has changed me significantly. Now I usually just deal with everything in the morning. My life before was painfully unproductive in the morning. Now it’s when everything is accomplished, and – gasp – I am possibly now my best in the morning.” She continues by adding, “Life surprises you, children change you – one day you wake up and you are literally a new person. Granted, as deep as this all may sound, I took the name when I started blogging almost as a joke, kind of laughing to myself about it, and that was really that. It’s really not all that glamorous of a blog “name” story, is it?”

Caroline uses her blog, Morningside Mom to write about parenting, politics, pondering life in general and panicking about it all. She also likes to blog about philanthropy, environmental issues, and ironic moments in her life. Caroline told me, “I try very hard to make sure my posts have some substance. My goal is to use my brain while writing well – so hopefully it is always to the reader’s benefit.”

*Now for the Make Believe Part*

What did you always want to be when you grew up as a kid? Why?

Where do I begin? Well, as a child, I was an enormous fan of music and dancing. So I thought I would be some sort of performer. Yup, I even wound up as the first blond Annie at my summer camp – I figured my lack of red curls was over-ridden but my amazing, fresh talent. And where did I want to go to high school? The “FAME” school of course. At ten years old, I coordinated complex dances and routines in my backyard to the soundtracks of “Fame”, “Flashdance”, and “Footloose”. Look out world, I was a rock star in the making.

Once I realized I had only a very slight – mostly lucky – ability to hold a tune, and my mother wasn’t going to pay for dance lessons or drag me to any auditions, I turned to writing. I started a book in 7th grade and I reveled in my new identity as a writer. I never finished the book (or even got beyond the first few pages) but I was given the title “Most Likely to write a novel” in middle school. I was proud of that. Writing was always one thing I actually got noticed for.

Then I went through a period where I wanted to write screenplays and direct films. Who had heard of a women film director? I hadn’t and I would be the first.

Well, life got in the way and again I realized I had no hope. While I enjoyed theater in high school, I was annoyed by it in college. Divas and their egos all jostled each other for a spot in whichever upcoming play was in the works. It was not my bag, baby.

My next dream? I would work in SeaWorld or the San Diego zoo. In college, I had majored in Neuroscience and Animal Behavior in college, and I was going to become BFFs with Shamu, the Killer Whale.

What happened instead? I met my husband, I started working in college admissions, we got married, had children and that was that.

What is your favorite fairy tale and why?

There is a book called “The Ordinary Princess” written by M.M. Kaye that I must have read 100 times as a child. It is a story about a princess, the youngest of 7 perfect sisters, who was given the gift of being “ordinary” by her great aunt. She became a regular looking, with average abilities – a plain old running, jumping, dirty, loud kid. And she got to marry the prince at the end too. It was eye opening for me. You could be a regular person and still be a princess. I adored that story and found real hope in it.

It is the night of the big ball. The one you are destined to marry is among the crowd, so you’ve dressed your best. Describe your outfit.

See now this is where I get caught up in details. Even as a child, when daydreaming about my wedding, I always got stuck on the specific wedding dress details and couldn’t just enjoy the fun of the daydream. So this is hard for me now. What to choose? Traditional Disney Princess? Eh, too much tulle, too much in general. Something out of Pride and Prejudice? Ack, an empire waist would look like a maternity dress on me these days. Maybe Tina Fey’s mermaid dress from the Emmys? Yeah, I love mermaid dresses. And strapless. With comfortable shoes but pretty strappy shoes. But would that mermaid dress even BE comfortable? And this dream boy of mine… well, is this even his type of scene? I’m thinking not. Maybe I’ll just meet him out back and skip the whole ball thing. I’d be wearing my cute skinny jeans, and a fun summer top, we’d jump in my old mustang convertible (still dreaming here) and go find some cool pub that served good pale ale on tap.

Your life has been selected to be featured in an upcoming fairy tale style movie. What is the title and premise?

Oh, my life? How about the story of a mother who had two boys, and cared for each of them with all of her heart. But she never realized she had a gift. She didn’t know that each time she gave them love and attention, they became more gifted and kind and wise. So that by the time they were grown, her boys were exceedingly smart and able to change anything they wanted. The only stipulation? To keep their magical abilities, they had to give and love people around them the way that they were loved themselves.

Too much? Hey, I can dream.

You need to be rescued. Where are you and what is going on around you? Describe the scene as your hero approaches.

I am on a dessert island. So hot, so tired, so thiiiirsty. I am hardly conscious. I hear the water on the shore. There is no shade. The sun is searing into me. The possibility of a horrible burn is sobering. Am I all alone? No wait. I see something over the sand dune. It’s him! There he is. At last. My husband. FINALLY. And with something to drink too. All will be well! All will be well! Wait a minute. What is this? Pina Colada?!?!?!!! I hate Malibu! EW! I said rum. RUM dammit! Off you go while I move this really heavy chair into the shade. Actually – before you go. This chair. It’s really (gasp) heavy. Could you move this for me?

(Just kidding. The chair wouldn’t be that heavy. And I would say “please”.)

Kate – 31 Days of Make Believe, Day 24 October 24, 2008

Kate is an international player in 31 Days of Make Believe. Currently, she is living in Cambodia, so her blog is a great way for her to share her thoughts with friends, family, and people who contribute to the work she’s doing.

Kate usually uses her blog, Embark, to share general things that have been going on in her life, or she reflects on things she’s learning as she lives in Cambodia.

*Now for the Make Believe Part*

What did you always want to be when you grew up as a kid? Why?

I wanted to be (nearly) everything; doctor, lawyer, newspaper reporter, dancer, actor… should I keep going?  Honestly, I think I just didn’t want to have to choose one!  When it came to narrowing it down, I thought of all the things that I was bad at, and that really helped (it’s why I’m not a police officer, painter, or window washer).

What is your favorite fairy tale and why?

Probably Sleeping Beauty.  It has it all: fairies, an evil witch, magic, a prince, and of course… a nap, in case all the drama wears you out.

It is the night of the big ball. The one you are destined to marry is among the crowd, so you’ve dressed your best. Describe your outfit.

It probably started out pretty well… lovely gown, one-of-a-kind jewelry, fancy hairdo, and amazing shoes (red, if possible. I love red shoes).  But I’m the type of girl to trip and fall while carrying a glass of punch, so by the time the prince got to me, my hair would be a mess, I’d have a stain on my skirt, and a blister on my heel.  I would also, however, have a great story to tell.

Your life has been selected to be featured in an upcoming fairy tale style movie. What is the title and premise?

Our Quirky, Accident-Prone Heroine must navigate a second culture (and language) to Save the World from an Evil Dictator (or a Weather-Related Disaster. Your pick.).  On the way she meets a colorful cast of characters, receives an outrageous number of marriage proposals, and discovers the true meaning of compassion.  Comedic highlights include learning to drive a motorbike, adventures with lizards, and trying new foods (i.e., fried spiders).   No love interest at present, but maybe one will appear on the way.  The working title could be… Far From Home.

You need to be rescued. Where are you and what is going on around you? Describe the scene as your hero approaches.

Night. In my apartment. I’m hiding from a Terrible Beast which threatens my very existence.  In sweeps (dashing, debonair, handsome, intrepid) Hero with large Beast Trap (of the sticky variety), fearlessly placing it only inches from the Lair of the Monster.  While waiting for the trap to catch the Fiend, Hero also manages to replace several burned-out light bulbs, fix a plumbing problem, and deal with some pesky cobwebs I can’t quite reach.  With the lights fixed, I can now see that the Beast was merely a mouse, and Hero disposes of the evidence as he takes out the trash.

Amy – 31 Days of Make Believe, Day 23 October 23, 2008

Amy from the blog Thoughts from the Mrs. is, in fact “TheMrs.” About her online name, Amy says “This is who I am. It’s actually a way for me to make this into a positive title. I’ve felt forever that my in-laws see me as “The Mrs.” and I wanted to do all I could to show who I was beyond that title with my blog and other online profiles.”

Amy blogs about day-to-day life as a wife, mom, and friend. She finds that staying home with a toddler can bring some pretty interesting adventures that make great blog posts. She also loves doing reviews and giveaways. She says “I think I just love to give to others and that’s why this appeals to me. I love how excited people get when they find out that they’ve won something.”

*Now for the Make Believe Part*

What did you always want to be when you grew up as a kid? Why?

I always wanted to be an Equestrian horseback rider. I wanted to go to huge competitions and wear that helmet and those knee-high boots while I and my horse jumped over every hurdle and gained applause from the crowd. I wanted to have my picture taken holding my trophy and my blue ribbon and be on the front page of a new paper. I wanted my story to become a movie about a little girl who is a world-wide champion. Oh, yah…and I wanted to be interviewed on the news for my fantastic prize winning.

Why? Well, don’t you think that sounds so majestic and triumphant? I thought it would bring me one step closer to becoming Princess Diana…that’s another dream though.

What is your favorite fairy tale and why?

I love the story of Thumbelina. There’s something so cool about being tiny and meeting a fairy prince. Maybe I like this because I love fairies. I don’t know. I just wish I were itty-bitty sometimes. What a new perspective that would bring.

It is the night of the big ball. The one you are destined to marry is among the crowd, so you’ve dressed your best. Describe your outfit.

I’m wearing a blue, beaded, floor length gown; like something out of a Miss America pageant.(Blue brings out my eyes.) There’s a nice slit on the front, right side of the dress that goes only to my knee. The back of the dress plumits to my wasteline. I look stunning…and not at all like I had a child. I have my pre-baby body rockin’ in this gown.

Your life has been selected to be featured in an upcoming fairy tale style movie. What is the title and premise?

My life as a Little Pony

Premise: My life from childhood to mommy of a child will be acted out by My Little Ponies. That’s makes it a little more entertaining. It will be done on a very small budget and will probably end up something like Napolean Dynamite…with ponies.

(Don’t ask why I picked My Little Ponies. It must be because I was obsessed with them as a child and acted out everything with them. Anyway, it’s my movie and I think it’s fun this way.)

You need to be rescued. Where are you and what is going on around you? Describe the scene as your hero approaches.

I am stuck in a Krispy Kremes Bakery. The “Hot Now” sign is glowing and I’m getting free doughnut after free doughnut. At first I think I’ve died and gone to heaven when suddenly I realize my wasteline is expanding and my stomach is not feeling so good. Ugh! It doesn’t matter! I can’t resist a free glazed doughnut!
My hero, my hubster, approaches and commands the workers to turn off that blasted sign and stop handing out free doughnuts. “In the name of all things Holy!” He carefully wipes the crumbs and sugar glaze from my face and tells me that everything’s going to be alright. He picks me up and carries me out of the bakery. Then (this is the best part) he takes me to the mall to shop for a new wardrobe as an incentive to stay away from those evil but heavenly glazed doughnuts.
Hooray!