#BLOGTOBER Day 7- Where to find the best Halloween Movie Marathons Part 2

October 7, 2018October 5, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

So I recently posted a Part 1 to this, but in my research for all the fall things, I came across a few more I had to share! Check out Part 1 HERE.

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TCM- Turner Classic Movies

A few films included in their line up are- Phantom of the Opera, Dracula Prince of Darkness, The Walking Dead, The Mummy, Night of the Living Dead, The Curse of Frankenstein, House of Wax, and so many more! So if you are craving some black and white screams, TCM is the place for you!

To view the weekly schedule for the whole month of October, visit- TCM.com
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I couldn’t find a full schedule but it does mention, SYFY will be premiering 5 original films.

#BLOGTOBER Day 6- Witchy Reboots…

October 6, 2018October 5, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

It seems like every where you turn, there is another 90’s tv show reboot. To be honest, I’m here for it ALL! I was born in the 90’s and I remember watching these shows and loving them, so these shows are basically my childhood. Nostalgia is so good, sometimes.

As I mentioned in a previous post, Charmed is coming back to The CW (formerly known as The WB) with three new young witches with many new adventures to face and evil to conquer. Looks kind of good, I’m going to see if it holds up to the original. Because I used to love the original. My best friend and I used to “Play Charmed.” Where we would each pick one of the witches to be and create spells and cast them. We often fought over who would be Prue or Phoebe, but let’s be real eventually we loved Piper because she’d get candle lit dinners with White Lighter Leo. 😉 #BESTFRIENDINSIDEJOKES

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Milano, Doherty, Combs

Combs, Milano, McGowan

The original premiered in 1998 and starred Shannen Doherty as Prue, Alyssa Milano as Phoebe, Holly Marie Combs as Piper, and Rose McGowen as Paige. Doherty’s character dies in Season 3, which is why they had McGowen show up to take the place of the third witch in the Halliwell family trio. The Series aired for 8 seasons on The WB.

Check out the Reboot Trailer below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OwMppC6qME

The synopsis reads:

Mel and Maggie Vera suffer a shock when their mother dies suddenly, but before they have time to heal from their loss, another surprise shows up on their doorstep in the shape of an older sister — brilliant geneticist Macy — whom their mother never told them existed. The emotional stress takes its toll and the girls begin to exhibit impossible new abilities. An explanation comes from an unexpected place: the new chair of the women’s studies department. Harry Greenwood reveals that the three are powerful witches, and he is their white lighter, there to advise and guide them as they battle dark forces.–[Via Wikipedia]

The idea of this reboot seems relatively similar to the original so I’m interested to see how this plays out. I want the key components of the original, but not an instant copy, and they’ve already changed things up by casting three Latina actresses. Cheers from a fellow Latina! I think this could be really cool. However, the reboot did get backlash from the original actresses, when the reboot proclaimed itself as “Fierce, Funny and Feminist.” OG fans seem to be in agreeance and are skeptical to watch. Alyssa Milano also spoke to Entertainment Tonight saying, “I wish that they would have come to us and we would have been involved since the beginning…But having said that, I do hope that it reaches the newer generation and impacts that generation the way ours was able to do for its generation.” As an OG fan, I feel that the original witches were 4 badass FEMINIST women, but that doesn’t mean we can’t leave room for these new actresses to claim their own feminist badassery. At least they aren’t stepping into the same exact character roles, trying to be something they aren’t. So hey, let’s just give it a chance, shall we? No matter what- Milano, Doherty, Combs and McGowan will always be our original Charmed ones.

The Reboot airs Sunday, October 14th @ 9 PM on The CW

NEXT UP...

The latest 90’s sitcom to be revived is- Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Well sort of…let’s dive in.

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The original live action TV series premiered in 1996, and starred Melissa Joan Hart as Sabrina Spellman. The show follows Sabrina Spellman – a teenager with magical powers who comes from a long line of witches. Until going away to college, she lived with her wacky aunts, who would teach her to use her witchcraft wisely, and Salem, the talking black cat, who always has a scheme up his paw. As a high-school student, Sabrina is less judicious about using her powers than when she enters adulthood. The series is said to be based on a 1960s Sabrina, a spinoff of the Archie comic franchise, and an animated TV series that originally aired in the 1970s. –[Via Wikipedia.]

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The original live action tv sitcom (1996) was funny, and light hearted, even the scariest of adventures had some humor attached, very kid friendly. I remember some of my favorite episodes were the ones where Britney Spears, and *NSYNC guest starred/made musical appearances. Another would be when Brian Austin Green played Sabrina’s Boyfriend for the night-yes they created a dough boy and basically baked her a boyfriend! Seriously I wish I was able to point my finger and be dressed and ready, or to zap myself to work, without the travel. Witches man! LOL.

The sitcom aired for 7 seasons on ABC and The WB and included two television movies and one soundtrack release. The series is also said to be outside the Archie comics.

Thanks to my free Hulu trial I get to 90’s it up! Hey remember that time DJ Tanner (Full House/Fuller House) played a psycho cult witch and then Sabrina visited Philly in Boy Meets World…SO good! I’ll be watching that episode on Hulu asap. Been on a bit of a Boy Meets World/Sabrina the Teenage Witch throwback kick.

This Sabrina Witch storyline has been revived/readapted several times, across several mediums. Comic book, Animation, Live Action TV sitcom, cartoon/animated series, films, and now it’s being given a darker, Netflix twist.

Sabrina: The Animated Series

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In 1999, Hart provided the voice of Sabrina’s two aunts for Sabrina: The Animated Series, while Emily Hart (Melissa’s younger sister) voiced the character of Sabrina. This series lasted one season and produced 65 episodes, the television/direct-to-video movie Sabrina: Friends Forever, and the continuation-spinoff series Sabrina’s Secret Life. –[Via Wikipedia]

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Both of Sabrina animated shows and a movie are all produced by DiC Productions, now called DHX Media. The series is outside the Archie comics. –[Via Wikipedia]

Sabrina: Secrets of a Teenage Witch
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In 2011, Archie Comics announced plans to produce a new animated series based on Sabrina the Teenage Witch to be released in late 2012. The show featured CGI animation that was produced by MoonScoop, and a brand new look for the Sabrina characters. As of October 2012, The Hub has picked up the series, and it finally debuted on air on October 12, 2013. –[Via Wikipedia]

Films (with Melissa Joan Hart)

Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996 film)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X17tyz_Chiw

Not to mention there were many books too!

Not to mention the many Sabrina books!

NEW SABRINA NEWS!!!

Riverdale (2017 TV series-The CW)
On July 23, 2016, at San Diego Comic-Con, K.J. Apa, who portrays Archie Andrews in the darker, subversive live action take on Archie, confirmed that Sabrina will eventually appear in the CW series. Sabrina was originally slated to debut in the show’s season one finale, but this was eventually decided against, as showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa said it would’ve distracted from the rest of the episode, though she is still being considered for a later season.–[Via Wikipedia]

This could be really cool.
I wonder who will play her?

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Sabrina Carpenter??? I could totally see her on Riverdale and her name fits the role! Or they may opt to do a crossover with Kiernan Shipka, who knows!

*Read the FULL Sabrina history HERE

Check out the trailer for the latest Sabrina journey-

The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, where Kiernan Shipka (will be taking on the role of Sabrina Spellman.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ybKUX6thF8Q

The synopsis reads:

Her name is Sabrina Spellman.

Half witch. Half mortal. On her 16th birthday, Sabrina (Kiernan Shipka) has to make a choice between the witch world of her family and the human world of her friends. With her aunties (Miranda Otto, Lucy Davis), her cat Salem, and her boyfriend Harvey Kinkle (Ross Lynch), Sabrina will face horrors and new adventures in the mysterious town of Greendale. From the executive producers of Riverdale comes a haunting new tale. –[Via Released by Netflix]

From the trailer I can definitely see the Riverdale esque influence. To be honest I didn’t even know the character Sabrina was based on an Archie comic. I was never a comics kid, but I loved TV, (clearly still do!) Being a kid in the 90’s, Melissa Joan Hart was my Sabrina. Although all Hart’s Sabrina related content (Live Action TV series, Animated Series, Films) was considered “outside the Archie comics,” it does still say she was based off the original Archie comic character. So I’m guessing it’s a loose adaption. Hart was the Sabrina I know and love, as she is for many. So now I can understand the difference in direction for this Netflix reboot, it isn’t based on the 90’s sitcom. However, wasn’t Archie more humorous and silly? Where is this darkness coming from? But then again I wasn’t an Archie comic reader.

WAIT!!!!

Chilling Adventures of Sabrina is an American comic book series published by Archie Horror, an imprint of Archie Comics, beginning in 2014. The series focuses on Sabrina Spellman during her teenage years in the 1960s. The series is a darker take on the characters and setting of Sabrina the Teenage Witch.— [Via Wikipedia]

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NOW I GET IT….DUH???

I know I’m intrigued just to see the same few characters pop back up. Looks really cool!

The Reboot Premieres Friday, October 26th. Only on Netflix.

*DISCLAIMER: I used Wikipedia/IMDB to fact check, so please don’t quote me on any of this. Sometimes their information can be off. My apologies for any mistaken information.

So who’s watching these Witchy Reboots? Any takers? Let me know how you think they’ll measure up to the original content in the comments below.

*I do not take credit for any images, video clips, films, trailers, or Wikipedia information*

-<3-

#BLOGTOBER Day 2-My 2018 Fall Bucket List

October 2, 2018October 2, 2018michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

sneak peek day 2

Go see movies: Halloween, A Simple Favor, Life Itself, Colette, Hell Fest, and A Star is Born, (CLICK TO WATCH THE MOVIE TRAILERS)

2. Go Pumpkin Picking

3. Go to Applefest

4. Buy pies, jams, cider, other fall drinks

5. Host my 2nd Annual Pumpkin Party

6. Host a Wine & Cheese Party

7. Watch Hocus Pocus & Halloweentown

8. Trick or Treat with my niece

9. Fall Fashion

10. Decorate for Fall, Halloween & Thanksgiving

11. Research some good Thanksgiving recipes

12. Dye & cute my hair (I’m thinking of trying purple this time!)

13. Go see J.T. in Concert

14. Participate in NaNoWriMo November

**More things may be added…

SNEAK PEEK FOR DAY 3…

day 2 sneak peek

What’s on your Fall Bucket List? Did I miss anything?

-<3-

An Update & Announcing #BLOGTOBER

October 1, 2018October 1, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

Hello there friends.

October 2017

I know it has been quite some time, since I posted consistently here on michelle leigh writes.

I was having some technical issues and it involved paying fees to upgrade my account, and I just had to really do some research and budgeting before I was able to figure out my next step.

For now, I think I have one. At least a short term solution.

I thought about changing hosts, and starting over. A new blog. Fresh Content. But I just couldn’t leave this one the way it’s been currently; inconsistent/not posting for months, and then what? I just decide to never come back to MLW? I couldn’t do it. It’s my baby. Besides, my current short story series “Move” was never fully finished so…keep an eye out for new chapters of that too!

RECAP from the beginning HERE

So I caved and purchased the upgrade. Not a super fan of the yearly cost, but I put 5 years of heart into this blog, I’m not ready to throw in the towel just yet. In fact, I now have my own domain- michelleleighwrites.com is my new site name. 😀

However, when my year mark resurfaces, I will re-evaluate and make the best decision for my blog from there on out. And if that means starting new then it will be an exciting adventure and I will of course keep you posted. Transferring 5 years worth of files seems like a tall order, so we will have to just see how things go in a year.

In the meantime I have many things in store for the coming fall months.

Now, because I’ve been gone for what feels like forever, I wanted to start things off with a BANG! So I will be doing #BLOGTOBER. A blog post everyday for the entire month of October. And I have a lot of fun stuff planned, from movie and music reviews to fun party planning ideas, to fall love stories. It’s going to be a good time.

DISCLAIMER:

In the interest of transparency. I must admit I do not know where or who the idea of BLOGTOBER originated from. I didn’t even know it was a thing. I just thought of it, because I know on YouTube they do VLOGTOBER or VLOGMAS, where video bloggers post video of their everyday lives as content for the entire month of October or December. I was even more so inspired by one of my favorite youtubers, Kalyn Nicholson, who does something on her channel called #Youtober, videos posted for everyday of October. She explains it in last year’s video. [See Below:]

SNEAK PEEK FOR DAY 2…

sneak peek day 2

-<3-

*Images are all my own, except the images used in my “Move” Edit artwork*

The February Slump 2018

February 19, 2018michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

Hi friends!

It’s been a bit, I know.

Today I would like to talk about the February Slump. I know you know what I’m referring to.

You know that point in the new year where you start to slack off on all the goals you set out to accomplish this year.

I knew this time would come. January was a month of making changes, and making lists, and plans for a better future. Putting things into motion and action.

Then once February came, I started noticing myself slacking. Going to bed late, not reading/writing everyday. My daily goals getting distracted by life and the day to day.

Overall, January was pretty great for me. I felt like I was forming a routine, and working out consistently, taking my vitamins, drinking a lot of water, carving out a day within the week to work on each of my big goals for the year. [SEE HERE by reading my- January 2018 Update]

But came February and a few late nights, family functions, and busy times and I started slacking. My goal was not to get angry with myself when this happened but to pick myself back up and hop back onto the routine I’ve started to create, improving it and crafting it as I go along. And that’s what I’m hoping to do this week. Thankfully I am on winter break and I can strive to plan things a little better. However, why is it that it’s only Monday and I already feel like the week is over. There’s so much I want to do, clean, research, make time to see friends and family. You know what they say, there’s never enough time in a day.

I just need to get myself back on track and learn to balance my time to include my dreams, my goals, and my inspirations with my family and my friends, work, (tv shows, because #TVJunkie) and a social life.

Balance is key. And that is what I need to build on in order for all of this to work. Life is a balancing act. Summers become Winters. Christmas becomes Easter in the blink of an eye. And before you know it, the goals you set out to accomplish in that year, are rolled over into the next.

This year I want that to change. I want inspiration, change, and determination to run through my veins. Change? Michelle, you want change? What? You hate change. No you don’t, your just scared of it.

Change is a scary word. But not all change is bad. And I think I’m starting to realize that in order for my dreams to come true I’m going to have to let change in. I want to take action. Take control over my life. There are things I always put on hold, things I just don’t force myself to do, habits that come and go. I let life lead me, rather than the other way around. And then I mentally scold myself for not accomplishing my goals.

So…this year I’ve started to implement the necessary changes I need to do in order to reach my goals. Granted, it’s a slow climb. I’m definitely a work in progress, and I’ve definitely had my days/weeks where I’ve slacked off. The important thing is to acknowledge the slump and work towards moving past it. I know I shouldn’t beat myself up over it, because that’s not going to help me. And I can’t go back in time and change it. Getting down over it and scolding myself will only make me feel bad which in turn will hinder my motivation starting a vicious cycle and I don’t want that. So time to focus, time to revamp, time to balance.

Keep going girl, you got this!

-<3-

*I do not take credit for any images used.*

Cheers to 5 Years! Happy Birth-a-versary!

January 8, 2018January 7, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

I baked some red velvet cupcakes just to celebrate a bit!

Let’s take a look back…

5 YEARS AGO I posted my first blog post here on michelle leigh writes…

Hey there…and welcome ❤
January 8, 2013

I guess I should introduce myself. I’m Michelle and I’m going to be writing for you. Writing is something that I’ve always enjoyed. It’s difficult to put one’s writing out into the world and have others read and speculate and generally speaking, critique your inner most thoughts. I’m very modest about my writing and often get nervous to share it with others, but this year I’ve promised myself that I would start changing that. I know, I know, once the new year strikes often many of us make promises we know we can’t keep…or won’t keep. But starting a blog has always been on my radar and I’ve always made excuses not to do it, but not this year. This year it’s happening. So if this blog speaks to you please read along, if not no hard feelings. But all I ask is to let this be a safe place for the written word. I’m not claiming to be an award winning writer, I’m just a girl with a lot of heart, who has A LOT of thoughts like I’m sure many of you do. Thoughts that may serve better being read then being cooped up in a journal. Who knows maybe you’ll find that someone else understands you. Here’s to writing! and Happy Reading Folks! -xoxo Michelle Leigh

To say that as I’m reading these words today, and I still feel a strong connection to their meaning is amazing. For the most part, I’ve overcome the fear of posting my work for strangers. Not that the fear is no longer there, I still find it difficult at times, but I continue to do it anyway. Sometimes I still worry what others who know me may think if they read my blog. If a family member or friend reads it, what will they think of me? Like- oh SHE wrote THIS? I know people may think of me a certain way and then they may read a “scandalous” scene in one of my short stories and think wait what? Ew. Lol. But I can only be true to my writer’s heart and to the characters I create in my stories. At the root my stories are all about love, friendship, family. Things that make life worth living.

Below are all the celebratory birthday/anniversary posts over the past 4 years…

“Secret” Society, “Resolutions”, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! + (My 1st VLOG)

Happy Birthday or Happy Anniversary?

Dear 2016, + Happy 3rd Anniversary!

Happy 4th!!!!!!!

In 5 years, I’ve managed to form a post schedule, share poetry, short stories, fangirl experiences, music and movie reviews, fashion, lifestyle, female empowerment, party planning tips and Writing experience/tips, with you. I’ve given you my heart for 5 years and it has been such an important part of my life. And I’m really glad that my motto, “A safe place for the written word,” still holds true for me. Because this blog has really been my writer’s outlet.

We’ve gotten to explore different writing styles, I’ve posted vlogs/videos, and I even have social media accounts for this blog now too. Come and follow along, talk to me! 😀

Social Media Links:

Twitter

Facebook Page

Instagram

It’s crazy to me that it’s been 5 years!

I’m excited for the future. For the new characters you’ll meet and the new poems that will come together and if you are reading this or have read any of my blog posts, I thank you for your support. I know that I may not have thousands of readers, or comments, but that doesn’t matter to me. What matters to me is that for those who do read along, or manage to stumble upon my blog, that they take something from it. That they find something in it that they can relate to. I hope you continue reading! And I hope to continue to grow this blog with all my heart.

Happy Birthday/Happy Anniversary or (Happy Birthaversary) if you will,

michelle leigh writes!

(I still don’t know what to call it!) 😉

Again THANK YOU, thank you!

See you Thursday- with an *ALL NEW* Chapter of Move!

MOVE poster

-<3-

2018 Inspiration and Planning Ideas

January 4, 2018January 4, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

I’m a planner and I love to know what’s ahead of me. Granted, I realize that’s not always possible, but having some vague plan in mind, tends to lessen my anxiety so I go with it.

Closeup image of notepad with pen.

I recently bought myself a new planner. Nothing fancy, as much as I love how they have all the stickers and the sticky notes and all that, I just don’t think I would actually use them. So I just went to my local Walgreens and picked up a Blue Sky, monthly/weekly planner.

When I start to plan for the new year, the first thing I like to do is reflect on the year that just passed. As you can see in my- 2017 Memory Jar Review post.

I go back through my memory jar, my instagram posts and my blog posts and see what I accomplished. I also review my goals list and check off the things I accomplished, and narrow in on the things I still want/need to work on, or continue to implement.

Because even if I did accomplish a specific goal in 2017, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t carry over into 2018. For instance like personal growth- and working on my anxiety, that’s a goal that’s on going, bettering my mental and physical health is always a goal every year, as it should be.

After I reflect, I review my old goal list, and check off, or add to it. And then eventually I’ll probably make a new list.

After that I will look at the many many things on my list and realize that it is VERY overwhelming!

So this year I’ve decided that from that big list I will pick 4-8 things that I want to ABSOLUTELY accomplish this year. And so that way my brain knows what it needs to focus on. Categories can help- so for instance- Health/Self-care, Relationships, Career.

After that, this is where my planner comes into play.

I like these planners (Blue Sky) because they have the monthly calendar and then the weekly where you can write in things per day.

However in hindsight, I usually end up needing more space, no matter what. So I’ll either use post-its or a separate sheet of paper/notebook or notepad for daily To-Do Lists or if something I’m working on needs a little more planning.

I’m debating getting just a desperate notebook for To-Do Lists, because I feel like I make them so often, I end up with all these sheets of paper all over. So we shall see.

It’s only January, things are definitely going to change as we go along.

I’ve started to do like weekly to do lists, and goals, and also I think eventually I may try monthly. Let’s be real January is a total hangover month. I’m still on 2017 time, so everything is trial and error at this point for me.

And that’s totally okay, because you don’t need a new year, to make a change. I kind of feel like I implemented some new things into my life last year around fall time, because I felt inspired to do so with the new school year starting up again. So you can always renew, revamp, and reflect. There are no rules.

Last year I said my “mantra word” was CHANGE, and ALOT changed around me, and I adapted and am continuing to do so, and although I feel I made some changes for myself too, I want to continue to grow and change on my own this year as well. However, I’m going to add another word to my mantra this year and that is DETERMINATION. There are certain things I want to do, that are big, BIG CHANGES I want to make in my life, and in order to do them, I’m going to need that fire, that determination. So I’m going to aim to up that factor in my life this year, because let’s be real, we all get in our lazy funks. It’s winter after all, and there’s a huge snow storm outside. So nothing says “it can wait til tomorrow…” more. But here I am trying to stick to my Monday/Thursday posting schedule anyway, while the tv is calling my name- waiting for me to catch up on all the shows I’ve missed over the past few weeks. Determination, Michelle, DETERMINATION.

Another thing I find that inspires me is looking up videos on YouTube. Some of those ladies make the most inspirational planning videos! And they just give you the pep you need to get planning.

I’ll link a few below, that I’ve watched this year for inspiration. I’ve definitely pulled from them when doing my planning.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4MRHvH4Qg0

I also like to have a visual to display so that I can see it. I never shared last years with you-(it was just a bunch of fun images with the word CHANGE), but after a while, it ended up getting buried in a corner of my room when I was reorganizing, but it’s back up and I’m going to add one near it to display images of my 2018 MAIN GOALS and the word DETERMINATION!

vision board 2018

***

So to review the steps I use to plan:

Step 1: Reflect on the past year

Step 2: Review 2017 Goal List/Write a New One

Step 3: Narrow Goals Down (to the most important you want to focus on)

Step 4: Buy/Use a planner/To-Do List (to keep track of everything)

Step 5: Find inspiration (if you need help planning your goals)

Step 6: Choose your mantra word (the theme for your year)

Step 7: Create a vision board (to keep visible as a reminder of your goals for this year)

Step 8: Breathe & Believe in yourself ❤

MY MAIN BIG GOALS FOR 2018

*Get healthier- mentally/physically/emotionally

*Take the next step in my career

*Save money for my best friend’s wedding festivities!

*Get my permit/take driver’s ed (yes I know I’m way behind on this, in life- but hey I live in NY, technically- I don’t NEED to drive) 😉

*Work on relationships

*Self-publish a body of work (not on this blog, but elsewhere)

*Write my Pilot episode

Now that I have this locked down, I can go through and plan how to accomplish each one, step by step. I haven’t done that just yet, but…I will. The year is new, the year is young.

Happy 2018! Now let’s crush it! ❤

Tell me how you plan for your year ahead in the comments below, and if you have any other YouTubers you find inspiring!

-<3-

*I do not take credit for the images used in my edit or otherwise.*

2017 Memory Jar Review

January 1, 2018michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

HAPPY NEW YEAR FRIENDS!!!

As I reflect on 2017, sifting through my memory jar, my Instagram and my blog posts, I realize SO MUCH happened this year. At the start of the year I made a vision board that I framed. It was made of just cool funky colors and images to match my room, but it also had one main word in the center and that word was CHANGE. I wanted to change and work on so many things and I wanted to make that word my mantra. As someone who fears change, I wanted 2017 to be the year I embraced it. And even though I had my ups and downs, my tearful breakdowns, my stressed out moments, and I lost a very special person- My Grandma very early on in 2017, I still managed to make some incredible memories.

I’d I have to say that I rose to the occasion and embraced change. I changed. And this year I’m hoping to continue to change. To better myself, my life, my relationships and my career.

So here are My 2017 Highlights.

(in no particular order-but categorized)

*FAMILY/FRIENDS*

-I rung in 2017 with my dad’s side of the family- my parents, my cousins, my aunt, and my grandparents. We even got to skype my brother and sister in law who were on their honeymoon in Hawaii at the time. I dressed up, made glitter cups, ate fun finger foods, and lit up sparklers as we had an impromptu dance party outside. It was a blast. It was in fact the last Holiday I got to spend with my Grandmother before she passed in February. I’m glad my family got to have that time together. It was also a huge family reunion when she passed, family and friends from all over came to be together. Although such a sad time, it was beautiful to see how much love there is and how many people wanted to share in honoring her life. Read more about that journey HERE.

-Many family dinners, my brother hosted a few holidays at his new house- memorial day, mother’s day, father’s day, Christmas 2017, and New Year’s! My mom also hosted a few family dinners too. A lot of time spent with my immediate family. ❤

-I became a Titi. (In Spanish it means Aunt.) My sister in law and brother found out they were expecting their first child, so we got to be apart of the baby kicks and all that, I even got to sit in on one of their sonogram visits! We were all there for the birth and for hospital visits and for her Welcome Home. We also got to be with her for her first Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year! She’s precious. I’m obsessed.

-My family/friends welcomed a few new babies- my cousin’s baby girl, my brother and sister in law’s baby (my niece!!!!), and one of my oldest friends- Kate’s baby boy.

-I attended special occasions like, my little cousin’s first birthday- it was a mickey mouse clubhouse theme!, my best friend Roe’s engagement party (where I was asked to be one of her maid of honors), I also went for several bridesmaids dresses, and got to see both my best friend’s in their wedding dresses during their hunt for the perfect dress! Attended my other best friend Jenny’s shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner and wedding, where I was her maid of honor and my other friend Kate’s wedding/baby shower and her wedding!

-Took a Zumba class.

-I caught up with some friends I haven’t seen in a while!

-Had a few girls nights/day in/out. Got to see my best friend Jenny’s new place. Had lunch with my mom and my best friend and her mom. Met up with a high school friend a few times, had some sushi and froyo with some work friends, and went to visit with old middle school friends.

-I dragged my Aunt and my mom to the Mermaid Parade, in the rain and we ended up having a blast! Of course I dressed up!

-I got to see my two little girl cousins in their Talent Show, my other boy cousin in his school play where he played Mufasa in Lion King Jr. and my God Daughter’s first dance recital!!! I love going to creative things like that, they are so inspirational. And I always end up tearing up. I love art!

-I read milk & honey.

-I went to the Polar Express again!

-My cousin moved back from Florida for a few months. So I got to see him, and it was nice because he hasn’t been home for that long in a long time.

-Had a fun park day with my God daughter and her baby brother.

-I spent the 4th of July at home with some family, we had food outside and then went on our roof to watch fireworks.

-I got to treat my mom to another play- this time I took her to see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and then I took her to Olive Garden.

-My family and I went to this old neighborhood amusement park we used to go to as kids, and we played mini golf and I beat my brother! HA! 😉

-Had a fun Beach Day with my mom, cousins, and Aunt. I only made it to the beach once that summer, but at least it was once!

*WORK*

-Started doing holiday/festive themed bulletin boards for my classes to display their Creative Writing work.

-My job hosted a Talent Show and my class did a skit called “School Struggles,” and they did so good!

-I got a bunch of last day of Summer cards from kids I work with. The word around my co-workers was I got the most. 😉 I was kind of super flattered and I felt all warm and fuzzy inside! 🙂

-A few movie projects were completed by my kids in my Film Making class.

-Chaperoned a few trips- one was to see Captain Underpants (which was surprisingly really entertaining!) at this really cool theater with reclining comfy seats, blankets, pillows and food service! The other was to the Museum of Moving Image which was really cool! We even got a special viewing of Moana.

-My job hosted an end of the year carnival- with blowup rides, a photo booth, DJ, and a Taco truck…can you guys what was my favorite part—T-A-C-O!!!!

*BLOG*

–michelleleighwrites turned 4 years old!!!! (it turns 5 next week!!!!)

-I finished the short story series- Welcome Home! (Start the series from the beginning by clicking the title.)

-Started a new short story series MOVE (will be continued this year).

-Also posted two themed shorts- one for Halloween entitled RED THIRST & and the other for Christmas entitled A Husband for Christmas.

-I did BLOGMAS! (and posted to social media regularly.)

-Someone made “She Said” into a little video and sent me it, I found out it was also used as someone’s monologue.

-I created social media accounts for MLW!

^(Accounts are linked in the BLOGMAS RECAP! post.)

*TELEVISION/NETFLIX/MOVIES*

-I fell in love with Hallmark’s When Calls The Heart and #JACKANDELIZABETH

-I started watching Supergirl

–Stranger Things & Fuller House released new seasons and they are killing the game!

-That’s So Raven got a Reboot- Raven’s Home– the nostalgia is real! Raven and Chelsea still crack me up!

–Will & Grace got a Reboot as well, and they haven’t changed a bit!

-Got hooked on and binged Scream the TV series

-Also got hooked on Riverdale…and fell in love with a new ship- #BUGHEAD

-Bethany Joy Lenz was in a new film on Lifetime- Snowed Inn Christmas, and my best friend Roe and I watched it during our “Best Friend Christmas” tradition we have every year where we get together and exchange our gifts and watch a Christmas movie and drink hot chocolate and Sangria while munching on snacks. And let me tell you this movie was AWESOME! It had everything- Christmas magic, humor, romance, heart, a handsome guy, and our girl Joy! Duh? 😉

-I found a bunch of good movies on Netflix!

*MUSIC*

-Bruno Mars “24 K Magic” Album (songs rolled over into 2017)

-Ed Sheeran “Divide” Album

-Sam Smith “The Thrill of it All” Album

-New Selena Gomez Music

-Demi Lovato’s “Tell Me You Love Me” Album

-TAYLOR SWIFT “Reputation” ALBUM!!!!!! (And Music Videos)

*PERSONAL/PARTY PLANNING*

-I fell in love with lighting candles, and wearing big comfy sweaters, which if you know me I used to shy away from because scents and fear of overheating myself would cause my anxiety to spike. I know that sounds like a weird highlight, but for me it means that I’m able to manage my anxiety in a way I wasn’t able to before. And do things people normally don’t think twice about.

-I had a pretty fun fall- a lot of fall vibes, went to a pumpkin patch and got my fall goodies, lit candles, bought festive soaps and décor. Watched a bunch of Halloween movies, I even ordered Halloweentown on DVD, (FINALLY!).

-Mini When Calls The Heart Premiere Party!

-I hosted a PUMPKIN PARTY! (Which I always wanted to do!)

-Had a Stranger Things Premiere Party (post COMING SOON!)

-I had a really special moment in confession this year. Read more about it HERE.

-I sent my god daughter and her baby brother (my second cousins) and my niece my special hand made, Santa Letters. It’s a tradition I started with my God daughter when she was born. I write a letter to her from Santa and mail it. So I continued it for her brother and of course I had to start it for my new little niece! ❤

-I was given a few special gifts in honor of my new role as “Titi,” two t-shirts, a bracelet and an ornament.

-I celebrated My GOLDEN Birthday! #26OnThe26th

-I had some fun fashion moments! Palazzo Pants

-I baked my butt off for this holiday season- for Thanksgiving I made Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter cookies with Reese’s Pieces, and for Christmas I made Chocolate cake batter cookies with Peppermint kisses in the middle and then White cake mix cookies with Milk Chocolate kisses in the middle and I also made a Berry Crumble.

-I’m learning my limits, and when to say no. I’m a fixer, and I realize rationally I can’t fix what I can’t control. And in this life there is a whole lot we have no control over!

-I finished editing a bunch of VLOGS!

-I put my birthday gift-Ninja bullet to good use and started making smoothies!

-I continue to decorate and organize my room.

-Last Summer, I died my hair BLUE! and now it’s like a green/teal. I have yet to post pics, but that’ll be a post COMING SOON! After the last wedding I’m in, in July, I’m thinking of doing another color next Summer…maybe purple? 😉

***

That was my year in review as you can see, A LOT HAPPENED. And after my family was hit with a major heartache and loss early in the year, it’s an amazing thing to say that for the most part 2017 was a really good year. Looking back on all these memories, I realize that so much change happened and I managed to get through it all and make the most of it- at least I tried in most cases. That doesn’t mean that it wasn’t hard, or scary, but I realized that a lot of the changes were good, happy things. And although they can come with stress too, I’m happy to say that I had so many good things to celebrate. I hope 2018 is just a celebratory for my friends and family but also for myself. 2017 was a lot about me showing up for other people, and although I don’t regret it, I realize I still didn’t get to do a lot of what I set out to do in 2017. So I hope to accomplish them in 2018. That doesn’t mean I won’t continue being there for my family and friends, it just means learning when to say no, and learning when to make myself a priority. Like Sophia Bush once yet,

“You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress, simultaneously.”

I wish you all a Happy, Healthy, 2018! May all your dreams for this year come true. Cheers!

-<3-

BLOGMAS RECAP!

December 31, 2017December 31, 2017michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

Before we roll into the new year I just wanted to do a little reflection/recap on #BLOGMAS.

I actually did it!!!! 25 days, 25 posts- a post a day, everyday!

There were many times I doubted if I would stick to it. If you’ve followed this blog for a while, you know there are many times I let life sidetrack me from my blogging goals.

However, this was something I set out to do, to see if I could actually meet the challenge.

In the beginning, I felt it was pretty easy to post, because I had a few posts already scheduled and ready to go. It was just a matter of checking in on things and then posting to social media. So it was a breeze- then it got harder as I had to post in real time. Every day, I had to set aside time to make sure I could write, edit, and post all in one day. And this is when I realized just how difficult it could be.

With all the holiday things going on- the shopping, the planning, and other things in life like friendships, family, and work, it was difficult to stay on track. Towards the end, I was uploading minutes before midnight! But I made it!

I even blogged ON Christmas Eve AND Christmas Day. I had planned to schedule those ahead of time, but it just got so stressful and so busy, with baking and last minute shopping for the little things. This Christmas was absolutely insane, a lot of traveling around, and it just felt like I was going and going non-stop. I have a new little niece so we had a lot of new special traditions this year.

So in between all that, I was typing up posts on the go, on my crappy cell phone. Making myself slightly car sick! Lol. Hey, at least you can’t say that’s not dedication! Right?

Needless to say not only was my cell phone giving me trouble, my laptop decided to die on me too! So in the face of this challenge I had given myself, it felt like there were a lot of obstacles against me. But I pushed past every one. I borrowed my mom’s computer, my aunt’s computer, to continue the journey, I typed notes into my cellphone, I excused myself on Christmas Eve and Day to upload on my brother’s computer, all on minimal hours of sleep and holiday stress. Just so I could prove to myself that I could do this. And I did. Wherever I went I had BLOGMAS on the brain.

I know it may not be a big deal to some of you reading this, but to me, it’s a huge deal. I often let this blog slide, when I have a lot going on in my life, because it’s my blog, I can pick up whenever or wherever I want. But giving myself a challenge, made me feel like I was being held accountable for something. Don’t get me wrong I felt rude at times sneaking away to write or sneaking off to work on a post/use someone else’s computer to post. (NOT THAT I USED WITHOUT ASKING PERMISSION, lol, because that would just be rude.) I just mean that I did feel bad doing something for myself in the middle of the holidays where your supposed to be sharing it with others. But it was important to me, and I think they all (or at least I hope they all) understood. I didn’t let it stop me from enjoying time with my family. I did what I had to do for BLOGMAS and shut the computer down and resumed my family time.

Another thing I had to come to terms with when posting daily, (because I didn’t always have time to plan and pre-write) was that I couldn’t over-analyze my ideas for my posts. I got an idea, if it was feasible in a day, I ran with it. It usually will take me hours to write, edit and post. Especially if it’s a short story. But with BLOGMAS I was in a bit of a constant time crunch. So I had to leave my perfectionism behind. At times it was hard, because I felt like it wasn’t my best work, but BLOGMAS was a learning experience. You don’t have to love what you write, everyday, but writing everyday is great for a writer to do.

My posts were all Christmas related, which was not my initial intension. But it kind of just happened that way, I guess I was inspired by the season.

Another thing that was new to me, was posting regularly to my social media websites for this blog during BLOGMAS. In case you didn’t know michelleleighwrites is on Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram! Come follow along! I’d love to chat with you! 😉 And as someone who personally doesn’t post to social media everyday, it took some getting used to. But it was a cool experience.

I know I also mentioned this to you guys at some point, how my WordPress account needs updating and I haven’t been able to do that yet, so my photo memory is extremely limited, and so it was a challenge to post without images. I always like to have an image accompany my writing, I feel like it adds a visual aspect. I had to go in and delete images to make room for the few new ones I needed, or work with images I already had. There were many weird obstacles during BLOGMAS, and usually when things like that have happened in the past in life, I would just be like “Oh well, it’s not working, I can’t do it.” But not this time. I set a goal and I met it! I think there was only one day where I posted to social media a few minutes late, but it was posted on the blog, on time, so I was in the clear! Lol.

It was a long BLOGMAS journey, but it kind of flew by and the more the time passed, the days grew and the numbers on the calendar kept climbing, and I kept posting and it just started to become part of my routine and it started to feel really good. There were times I thought to myself, “I’ve got this,” and there were times where I was like, “Oh no, I’m going to miss my deadline!” But I did it, I posted every day from December 1-25 and I am super proud I was able to commit to it and complete the task I set out to do. For myself, but also for all of you.

Thank you for reading… (and if you missed any days of the MLW #BLOGMAS series, I will link them all down below for you to browse.)

BLOGMAS -Day 1- Christmas Bucket List

BLOGMAS -Day 2- Christmas Playlist

BLOGMAS -Day 3- Christmas Movie List

BLOGMAS -Day 4- A Broken Heart For Christmas Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 5- My VLOGMAS Favs

BLOGMAS -Day 6- (Mini) VLOGMAS 2016 Update

BLOGMAS -Day 7- Single in Season

BLOGMAS -Day 8- A Christmas Story

BLOGMAS -Day 9- A Christmas Morning Memory

BLOGMAS -Day 10- Winter Wonderland

BLOGMAS -Day 11- The pressure the Holidays put on us

BLOGMAS -Day 12- Snowed Inn Christmas

BLOGMAS -Day 13- “A Husband for Christmas” Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 14- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 2] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 15- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 3] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 16- Cynical Shopping

BLOGMAS -Day 17- My Perfect Winter Day

BLOGMAS -Day 18- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 4] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 19- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 5] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 20- Give me your Light, Oh Lord.

BLOGMAS -Day 21- Winter [2017] Favorites

BLOGMAS -Day 22- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 6] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 23- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 7] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 24- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 8] Short Story

BLOGMAS -Day 25- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 9] Short Story

*STAY TUNED!

My 2017 Highlights/Memory Jar post will be up tomorrow!!!

Have a very Happy and safe New Year’s Eve and if your feeling the romance tonight- check out some of my New Year’s Eve stories…

Kiss Me At Midnight…A Short Story

What are you doing New Year’s Eve?

*^ The second is a year after follow-up to the first, it follows the same characters.^*

For Old Times’ Sake

Once again Thanks for reading this year! See you in 2018!

-<3-

BLOGMAS -Day 25- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 9] Short Story

December 25, 2017December 25, 2017michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

BLOGMAS DAY 25!!!!! WE DID IT!!!!!

lights blogmas edit

A husband for christmas short story_Christmas 2017

Read Part 1 HERE, Part 2 HERE, Part 3 HERE, Part 4 HERE,

Part 5 HERE, Part 6 HERE, Part 7 HERE and Part 8 HERE.

A few minutes later Noel comes downstairs wearing a silk red robe.

Kris notices, his eye brow raising.

“Well hello,” he says smirking.

“So I didn’t have time to get you an actual gift, you know what with getting into a car accident and loses my memory and all.”

“Right,” Kris says nodding, a smirk on his lips.

“But I made you a card,” she says handing him it.

Kris turns the card over and it reads-

“Merry Christmas! Unwrap me.”

Noel stands there as she holds her hands out, an expression of expectation on her face.

“Well…whataya say?” She says laughing.

Kris laughs walking over to her, he unties her robe showing off her lacey red lingerie.

“I know we’re not in a hotel, and it’s not exactly like our usual tradition, but…”

“It’s perfect,” he says pulling her into a kiss and then lifting her up over his shoulder as he rushes up the stairs. Noel lets out a squeal.

***

Kris and Noel collapse onto their bed, exhausted, bright smiles on their faces.

“Best Christmas gift, ever.” Kris says looking over at Noel.

She laughs as she climbs back on top of him, “Let’s do it again.” Smirking, he pulls her into a kiss.

***

Later that night by the fire, Noel sits on the floor, near the crackling amber flames, dressed in one of Kris’ green and red plaid pajama tops. Kris wearing just the matching bottoms.

“So…I’m sorry I have to ask…did it feel different?” Noel asks slightly nervous of his response.

“It felt exactly the same,” he says smiling up at her, as he leans in kissing her cheek.

“I have to admit as excited as I was to be with you- and believe me I was very excited,” she says laughing. “I was also nervous. I was just worried that I wouldn’t know what you liked, I didn’t even really know what I liked.”

Kris smirks, “Oh, I know what you like.”

“Yes you do,” she says smiling as she kisses him, cupping his face.

He pulls away to look at her.

“What?” she asks.

Kris smirks, pulling her rings from his pajama pocket.

Noel smiles happily, “You found them!”

“No, I stole them.”

Noel looks at him confused.

“Why would you…”

Kris gets up on one knee.

Noel realizes and covers her mouth, her eyes beginning to water.

“I know that I haven’t been the easiest husband to handle throughout all of this. I wasn’t my best self right now and I feel like I made one hell of a poor impression. But it’s only because I lost my mind when I thought I might lose you. I spoke to the officer in charge of your accident, and I was so relieved to find out that the accident was ruled an actual accident. But that still just goes to show that anything can happen at any time. I just got so scared. And in the mist of all of that I’ve been so afraid that you would not want to even be near me and that we’d lose all we have. When I actually ended up pulling away out of fear of hurting you. And I know by doing that, although it wasn’t intentional, I know I made you feel bad and I’m so sorry. The truth is I just love you more than anything. I know you might not remember how this all happened the first time, so I figured it couldn’t hurt to do it a second time for the woman I love.” He says smiling. “Will you marry me…again,” he asks laughing.

Noel smiles brightly. “Absolutely,” she says as Kris slides her rings on her finger. She places a kiss on his lips.

“Now let’s go celebrate,” she says grabbing his hand and rushing off to their bedroom as he laughs.

Noel and Kris are laying under their red comfy covers, Kris kissing her as she sighs grasping at the sheets.

Noel suddenly has a million flashes of different moments of her life. She freezes as Kris notices, he stops and looks at her.

“Noel…baby…are you ok?”

Noel smiles, and cups his face, kissing him.

“So I guess we’re already working on babies, like we planned, huh? We’re not even married a full month!” She says.

Kris looks at her.

“I remember.” She whispers.

“Did you have another memory?”

“No, not just one, I remember everything,” she says smiling.

“Just like that?” He says confused.

“Well your power of seduction is just out of this world.” She says smiling.

“You really remember everything?”

Noel nods happily, “I don’t know it all just came rushing back at me.”

“What’s my middle name?”

“Kringle. Your parents had a sense of humor.”

“Baby… welcome back!” He says smiling and laughing as he kisses her.

Noel kisses him back, peck after peck after peck.

“I love you so much.”

“Mmm I love you too,” he says his voice husky.

“Looks like I got my husband back just in time for Christmas.”

“He never went anywhere.” Kris says kissing her.

***

A few months later- Valentine’s Day

Noel and Kris sit at a restaurant enjoying their dinner.

“So I have something for you.”

“Well I have something for you too, but I thought were were exchanging gifts at the house.”

“I can’t wait,” she says excitedly handing him the gift bag.

“Ok,” he says laughing, as he shuffles through the tissue paper. He pulls out a small white baby onesie that reads, “I love my daddy.”

Kris’ bright blue eyes shoot up locking with Noel’s sparkling brown eyes.

“Are you?…”

Noel nods a bright smile on her face.

“So we’re?…”

“We’re gonna have a baby!” She says happily. All eyes turning to them.

“Oh my god,” he says smiling brightly, getting up he rushes over to her, pulling her into a kiss. As onlookers smile and clap for them.

***

One Year Later- Christmas

Noel and Kris walk into their living room, Noel holding a beautiful, pink, rosey cheeked bundle in her arms.

“Merry First Christmas sweetheart,” Kris says kissing his daughter’s cheek. “Daddy and mommy love you so much.”

“Babe let’s hang up the stockings,” Noel says pointing to a storage bin near the fireplace.

“Yes, absolutely, come on baby girl, let’s hang up your stocking,” Kris says walking over toward the fireplace.

“Hold on, hold on, let me take a video for you!” Holly yells rushing in the room.

“There’s Aunt Holly!” Noel says smiling.

Holly holds up her phone as she records- a sparkling ring lays on her left head. Kris hangs up first his stocking, then Noel’s and then the third one-displaying the name- Joy.

“Yayyy!” Holly says smiling. “Hi pretty girl, Merry 1st Christmas! Beautiful.” she says putting her phone down and giving her niece a kiss on the forehead.

The doorbell rings and Holly rushes over, “I’ll get it,” she says happily.

Holly opens the door to find Jack.

“Hey you,” she says smiling.

“Merry Christmas baby,” he smirks, kissing her.

“Merry Christmas, come in, come in.” She says happily waving him in.

Just as Holly is about to close the door, a voice is heard.

“Hey wait for us!”

Holly stops and re-opens the door to find Rebecca and Griffin rushing up.

“Hey, Merry Christmas,” Holly says hugging them.

***

Noel and Kris sit around their kitchen table covered in food.

“I would just like to propose a toast,” Kris says holding up his glass, as everyone holds up their glasses. “Cheers to a beautiful holiday with an amazing group of people. Noel and I are happy to call you all family. Cheers to our greatest gift ever, our baby girl Joy. Cheers to Holly and Jack on their engagement, (Holly smiles at Jack, who leans in and kisses her cheek) and cheers to Rebecca and Griffin on their upcoming little bundle. Joy can’t wait to have a friend to play with. We love you guys so much, Merry Christmas!”

“And Cheers to my husband for finally opening up his own auto body shop, Joy and I are so proud of you baby,” Noel says kissing him.

Everyone cheers exchanging I love you’s and Holiday greetings. as the fire place crackles, Christmas music playing in the background and family love all around.

THE END.

Have a Very Merry Christmas!

And Thank You for reading!

-<3-

Michelle Leigh Writes

A safe place for the written word <3 New Posts Two Days A Week

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#BLOGTOBER Day 7- Where to find the best Halloween Movie Marathons Part 2

#BLOGTOBER Day 6- Witchy Reboots…

#BLOGTOBER Day 2-My 2018 Fall Bucket List

An Update & Announcing #BLOGTOBER

The February Slump 2018

Cheers to 5 Years! Happy Birth-a-versary!

2018 Inspiration and Planning Ideas

2017 Memory Jar Review

BLOGMAS -Day 25- “A Husband for Christmas” [Part 9] Short Story