J. H. Bográn's

Traveling memoirs, small observations and wonders

2012-02-15T07:20:00.002-06:00

Due to my day job, I’ve spent 80% of the past six weeks traveling. Thank God I like my job and have a family who could stand it. Don’t worry, baby. I’ll be back soon.

Now, when it comes to traveling, I’m one of those peculiar people who like to plan ahead on what to pack, what to bring, etc. Since it was a business trip, the laptop was a no-brainer. I settled for the Ipad because it could serve me as back up in case the laptop failed, which it did. As a matter of fact, a virus or a miss-installation ruined the windows registry so I can’t access my hard drive, copy or save anything on it, so I typed this on the only working software: Outlook. Can you believe it?

On the way here, while waiting for the plane to depart I discovered an advantage that printed books have over electronic reading devices. I was happily reading Lauren Baratz-Logstead’s The Bro-Magnet when a masculine voice filled the air through the P.A. system: “This is your captain speaking, as of this moment the use of all electronic equipment is not permitted because they emit signals that interfere with our equipment. We will let you know when you can use them again.”

I may be paraphrasing the little speech here, but you get the drift, the polite warning: would your risk crashing your plane because you’re stubborn enough to not turn the darn thing off? Of course not!
Do you remember that plane that landed on the wrong city a couple of years ago? Jay Leno and David Letterman made jokes about the incident for over a week. As usual with news that fades away, I don’t recall the outcome of the ensuing investigation. However, I’ve got a feeling the guiding instruments got all out of whack because somebody failed to turn off a cell phone. Hell, maybe that is the reason we get to see so many famous people kicked out of flights nowadays, to prevent that from happening away.

So there I was, while the person sitting next to me read his paperback I had nothing to do but look at the dust specks in the air against the light coming through the small window. In short, there are two gaps of fifteen to twenty minute where you can’t use your kindle or ipad during flights. A note to myself: next time bring a newspaper. During a layover I printed an office report that I had to study anyway, so no more dust specks on the second leg of my flight. Well, I’m sure specks were there, I just didn’t have to concentrate on them anymore.

The trip has extended for a couple of weeks. So spending Sunday alone in a hotel in Managua, I decided to follow my religious directives and searched for a nearby church. While I was sitting through the readings and the sermon I kind of remembered something I learned a long time ago: the Catholic Sunday mass is the same all over the world. All the priests around the world read the same Proclamation of the Gospel and the homily is basically the same, only adapted to the locals. It was a great feeling to know my wife and kids were hearing just about the same things as me as they sat through a mass in Honduras at about the same time. Dare I call it a connection made in Heaven?

Managua is a nice city. Security is okay. People keep telling me I can even walk around the hotel without fear. That’s a change for good. Although I’ve never been to Chicago, I do think Managua can be a contender fighting for the title of “Windy City”.

By the way, in the picture you can see the top of the new cathedral in the city. I understand the old one was destroyed in a massive earthquake a few years ago. And believe me, they didn’t have to tell me it was new, the architecture alone shows no vestige of Spanish Colonial heritage.

Anyway, here’s to Managua, the city where I spent Valentine Day.

Random (and truthful) event in the life of a night writer. *

2011-10-13T16:32:00.002-06:00

Last night, I was plotting how to finish off the third victim of a serial killer for my current manuscript when my mobile phone began playing They tried to make me go to rehab, I said, "No, no, no." I haven’t changed ringtone since Amy Winehouse’s demise a few months ago.

“José, did you guys change the office locks without telling me?” It was my boss.

“No,” I replied. “What happened?”

“I can’t open the front door. It sounds like all the internal parts came loose inside the lock.” He said.

“Really? I can be in the office in ten minutes.”

“Don’t worry, what need is a locksmith. But it’s kind of late.”

“It’s no problem. I have certain experience with locked doors.”

As promised, I got there as soon as I could. Okay, okay, it took me twelve to fifteen minutes.

After trying the key and a gentle shove, the door remained closed. It was time to put my money where my mouth was.

I handed my boss a flashlight and told him where to point the light beam. Can’t tell you how much fun it was to boss my boss around.

Using an old laminated ID card, I pressed the spring latch between the door at the frame and within a minute, I pushed the door open. Easy as cake.

“Wow. I’m impressed, you’re fast!” He said as I ran to punch in the security code.

“Well,” I said coming back to the door, “there is a reason why the main character in Treasure Hunt is a thief.”

So, once again, a proof that the time invested in research is time well spent.

*Night Writer has nothing to do with Knight Rider, so if you got here looking for the TV show, check your spelling and Google again. lol

Dishing it up!

2011-09-12T11:58:00.002-06:00

Hi there.

A new interview is online, some of the questions were unexpected.

Check it out:

http://jetaylor75.blogspot.com/2011/09/dishing-it-up-with-jh-bogran.html

Go to the backspacewriters blog

2011-07-29T08:45:00.002-06:00

I was a guest blogger at the BackSpace blog.

Here is the link:

http://backspacewriters.blogspot.com/

Enjoy.

But then, come back to this one. :-)

On turning 39

2011-07-28T08:12:00.001-06:00

Today is the first day of the last year in which I can be referred to as “a man in his late-thirties.”

365 days from today, I’ll hit the big four-oh.

Is the middle-age crisis showing up yet?

I’m not overly worried about that.

Maybe because I think I suffered it prematurely when I turned 30. I remember nine years ago I signed up for Karate lessons, I let my hair grow a bit longer than usual, changed jobs, bought a piano and tried to teach myself how to play it, quoted a sports car. So, no, I don’t think 40 will have a greater impact. Hopefully.

I have no big plans for my 39^th year except for keeping my day job—which thankfully I love—but also spending time with the family and working on a new novel that I finally plotted (yes, I’m a plotter, not a pantser).

One of my favorite movies from the 80’s is “When Harry Met Sally,” and not only because of the restaurant scene where the Director’s mother uttered the AFI listed quote: "I'll have what she's having.”

No, the other scene that stuck in my mind, because it was even in the trailer, is between Sally and Harry. Here’s the exchange, courtesy of IMDB:

Sally: No, no, no, I drove him away. AND, I'm gonna be forty.
Harry: When?
Sally: Someday.
Harry: In eight years.

So, it’s not eight years for me anymore, just a few months above eight. J

JET fueled Fiction

2011-07-25T08:37:00.001-06:00

In case you missed my post in my Facebook and Twitter, today I'm a guest blogger at J.E. Taylor's blog. Just follow the link here:

http://jetaylor75.blogspot.com/2011/07/manic-monday-with-jh-bogran.html

1911-2011, 100 years of Marini

2011-07-22T21:16:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I received a short text message from a friend alerting me of something: This year marks the first hundredth anniversary of the Martini.

Why did my friend think that little bit of trivia would interest me? Maybe it was because of the twenty-three DVDs containing as many James Bond movies that are on display in next to the player; or perhaps the fact that my wife presented me with a cocktail mixer on Father’s Day; maybe it was because he knew I was looking for a subject to blog about and that I would, in fact, drink one if I were to write about the cocktail. The truth is I do not know my friend’s motivations, but I do thank him. Cheers to you, Sergio!

Let’s get the facts out straight first.

Fact #1: Here is the American Bartender Association official recipe:

MARTINI

5.5 cl Gin

1.5 cl Dry Vermouth

Pour all ingredients into mixing glass with ice cubes. Stir well Strain in chilled martini cocktail glass. Squeeze oil from lemon peel onto the drink, or garnish with olive.

(Vodka Martini - replace gin with vodka)

Fact #2: Neither James Bond, nor Ian Fleming invented it; although, both author and character played an important part in making it popular during the 50’s and 60’s.

Fact #3: The most accepted theory, if there is such a thing among men precariously holding cocktail glasses, is that the Martini was concocted in the bar of the popular Knickerbocket Hotel in New York City back in 1911 (hence the 100 year reference, duh!).

Is it martinis the drink of choice for spies and authors? Well, I’m certainly not in speaking terms with any spy, but I do know some famous authors who drank Martinis. Every writer worth his salt has a copy of Strunk & White’s The Element of Style, and this is important because, you see, E.B. White is usually quoted for calling the drink "the elixir of quietude". Journalist H.L. Mencken went further and called it "the only American invention as perfect as the sonnet.” I may name other authors, but that’d be just name-dropping.

I am not trying to take Wikipedia’s place as a source for quotable undisputed information so I won’t dwell on the cocktail’s origins; or how it became popular during the Prohibition years due to easiness of finding cheap Gin; or why Elle Wood’s father is holding a glass on every one of his scenes in Legally Blond.

The whole point of this entry is to celebrate my favorite cocktail, not because I’m an author/spy wannabe, but because I’ve learn to appreciate its taste, master its preparation and can sit and enjoy one, or two.

Shoot! My glass is empty. I’ll wrap this up and go mix another one.

For a more detailed history of the cocktail, here are some further reading links:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martini_(cocktail)#cite_note-0

http://moreintelligentlife.com/content/lifestyle/jackie-hunter/martini-not-amateurs

http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/drinking/cocktails/martini

PS: I typed 23 James Bond movies. It was not a mistake. I have the 22 EON plus the 1983 renegade Never Say Never Again.

Readers Favorite reviewed Treasure Hunt

2011-07-19T08:18:00.003-06:00

Now it's official, RF claims my novel Treasure Hunt is "a real page-turner!".

Of course, I couldn't be more thrilled with the comment.

And here's my favorite line:

The characters are believable; the author's astute attention to detail brings the reader into the story, captivated by each new chapter.

The review is now posted the Amazon and to their official site:

http://readersfavorite.com/cat-71.htm?review=4481

Fantastic Horcruxes and where to find them

2011-07-14T14:40:00.003-06:00

Necessary Note: I wrote this piece for a Harry Potter book club a couple of months prior to the release of the Deathly Hallows book. With the imminent release of the last movie tomorrow, I thought this post was worth to revisit this search as we are still short of some horcruxes.

After the released of the Half Blood Prince and the shattering—if not completely surprising—demise of Hogwarts’ Headmaster, many questions have come to the mind of the readers. Perhaps the more over-analyzed is the loyalty of Severus Snape. There are subtle tips spread all through the six books that could support either case on where his loyalty stands. I’ll side-step that topic for now since I think there are only two viable outcome: He’s good and will help Harry somehow; or Snape is a treacherous bastard he’ll pay dearly for it in the end.

The other such topic is whether Dumbledore is dead or alive. Thankfully, Mrs. Rowling already clarified this point claiming the Headmaster will not be doing a “Gandalf.”

Now on to a topic that offers a wider realm of possibilities.

Since the introduction of the concept of a Horcrux, I fell enchanted with the concept of intentionally ripping a soul and actually taking advantage of it. The death-cheating scheme seems to be a repetitive theme in the life of Harry Potter and his wizardly world (e.g. The philosopher’s stone, the resurrection stone, unicorn’s blood, just to name a few).

A recap first, shall we? A Horcrux is an object that holds a part of soul of a wizard seeking immortality. Lord Voldemort made a total of six:

1. The Tom Riddle Diary: Given to Lucious Malfoy, destroyed by Harry Potter during the events inside the Chamber of Secrets in Harry’s second year.

2. The Ring from Slithering: Found hidden in the remains of the house of Gaunt and destroyed by Albus Dumbledore at the cost of his right hand in the process.

3. Nagini, the snake: To be found at Voldemort’s side if not sent on special missions. (e.g. Attacking Mr. Wesley at the Ministry of Magic in Book 5).

4, 5 & 6: the objects remain a mystery: “the locket .., the cup ... something of Gryffindor's or Ravenclaw's”. (Before my inbox gets inundated, I’ll concede the locket was verified, found and destroyed by the end of the Part I)

I will not venture what the remaining object might turn out to be. I’m more interested in pointing out the possible locations of some of them.

Given the fact that the two already-found Horcruxes were hidden in places that presented some importance—or milestone—in the life of Tom Riddle/Voldemort, I’m following the other known places where the Dark Lord has been.

1. The Chamber of Secrets. Fitting as he discovered his true ancestry there. It is a place no one but him could reach. “But when?” you may ask. Either before he left school or more possibly on his brief return to a job interview with Dumbledore for the Defense Against the Dark Art teaching position. (The books show a scene where Voldemort had an interview with the Headmaster for the post; however, this was not shown in the movies I think.)

2. The Room of Requirement: as the rushing Harry Potter confirmed himself when trying to hide his Half-blood prince autographed poison book, the room is overcrowded with objects. Perhaps the five-legged skeleton is one of the keepers! As to when, I’d suggest the same timeframes as above.

3. Burgin and Burkes store: What better place to hide such a dark object than a place filled with similarly dark magic pieces? The spies have a term coined for this technique; it is called: hiding in plain site! The young Tom Riddle worked there for some time. He probably placed it somewhere. Ever since Chamber of Secrets, this store keeps popping up a lot.

4. Godric’s Hollow: Yep, right where all began for Harry. I see the place might appeal to Voldemort in the same way as the Helga’s cup and Slithering locket. If the Dark Lord could not find anything from Godric Gryffindor, perhaps hiding a portion of his soul in the place of a Hogwart’s founder home.

5. The Orphanage: A place he never liked, true. But, again, the idea was to hide them well and not many people seem to be aware of Tom Riddle humble origins.

6. The Riddle House: A possibility? Why yes, indeed! Although the one I seem less likely as he spent a lot of time there during the events of Goblet of Fire. Being too close to hidden Horcrux might endanger it.

I’ve listed six possible places for a total of three remaining Horcruxes, let’s wait to the release of Deadly Hallows and find out for sure!

Kindle Author: Kindle Author Interview: J. H. Bográn

2011-07-07T09:04:00.000-06:00

Kindle Author: Kindle Author Interview: J. H. Bográn: "J. H. Bográn, author of Treasure Hunt , discusses his book, his journey as a writer, and self-publishing on Kindle. DAVID WISEHART: What c..."

Some quotable quotes:

2011-06-30T15:38:00.003-06:00

One of my favorite quotes is:

Because I do it with a little ship, I’m called pirate; because you do it with a big fleet you’re called emperor.
In an interesting twist, the quote is not from somebody famous; however it was said to none other than Alexander the Great.

The legend says Alexander was holding court to a person accused of piracy and that the Great conqueror was pounding on the little guy, really making him feel small as a bug. The pirate stood his ground, as quoted above and it is said that Alexander was so impressed by the comeback that felt no other choice but to release the prisoner.

Another favorite quote of mine is uttered by Giancarlo Giannini in the 1995 movie A Walk in the Clouds:

Just because I talk with an accent doesn't mean I think with an accent.

Maybe because that is how I feel being a non-native English writer.

But enough with the quotes, as Ralph Waldo Emerson said:

I hate quotations. Tell me what you know.

Will the Green Lantern resurrect DC Comics-based movies?

2011-06-23T07:36:00.004-06:00

I’m not going to pose for an expert in comic. I barely know enough to get me through a conversation without making a fool out of myself. On the other hands, motion pictures are my thing.

The past decade marked a breakthrough for Marvel. Spiderman, X-men, The Fantastic Four, Iron Man, even the not so popular Daredevil/Elektra combo performed really well at the box office. Look at the X-Men for instance; it appears they can’t go wrong. They put an older-looking actor to play a younger version of himself, and it was a hit! Now the first class broke the 100 million mark soon enough. In 2003 The Hulk tanked worst than Godzilla, but undeterred, the producers tried again within five years and the result was much more satisfactory. Now the ambitious multi-movie project of The Avengers is in the works. Thor & Captain American are all lined up and ready and we’re taking it. I mean, come on, Chris Evans is in good shape, but he already played Jimmy Storm! Couldn't they find another actor to play Captain America? And still looks Marvel will get away with it, they’re definitely soaring!

Meanwhile, DC Comic’s sole hit is Batman. Although Superman performed okay, it didn't fulfill expectations and the franchise was put on hold. There is a new rendering, following the gritty footsteps of Christopher Nolan’s Batman, titled The Man of Steel. Let’s hope he can fly.

Last weekend Green Lantern opened to 53.2 Million at the box office, but the critics were not kind to the Ryan Reynolds incarnation. It received mixed to bad reviews, and producers still counting the pennies to see if they can declare it a hit or a flop. Let’s give them another week.

The horizon looks promising with the most beautiful of super heroes, Wonder Woman. Now that the new generation is not familiar with Linda Carter’s role-defining acting from 70’s, public is ready for a fresh look. And the timing could not be more appropriate. The woman-as-action-hero road was recently paved with Lara Croft, The Bride who wanted to Kill Bill and Alice from Resident Evil to name a few. However, producers are making it for TV, early critics panned the costume, so she’s off to a rocky start. For Wonder Woman, it’s now or never.

The DC Comics vrs. Marvel is as old as comics themselves, and the jury’s still out on the verdict.

I'm a guest at Cate Master's

2011-06-19T09:12:00.002-06:00

I'm in the spotlight, here is the site:

http://catemasters.blogspot.com/2010/06/jh-bogran-in-author-spotlight.html

Come and participate. Leave a comment for a chance to win an autographed copy of Treasure Hunt.

My Boy Scout adventures

2011-06-16T10:06:00.003-06:00

The Boy Scout movement in Honduras during the 80’s was a good experience for me. The moral values combined with the hands-on learning activities were a milestone in my education.

The motto of “be prepared” is ingrained so much that to this day I still carry a pocket knife, a pen, a lighter (ok, used to be matches). I dispensed the comb because, well, a comb won’t do anything to my hair; it was a waste of space.

Nowadays, I must leave my trusted Victorinox at home when I travel. But I take comfort thinking that I do it to “be prepared” for easy pass-through airport security. J

My first camping experience was in the mountains near Siguatepeque (central area of

Honduras). We arrived mid-morning, set camp within an hour and enjoyed the afternoon with horse-playing typical of an alfa-male group.

Along with the sunset, came the first rain drops. An hour later, the hard rain flooded the camp and we had to flee to higher ground while the noisy thunders scared a few of the younger members. We found an abandoned shed, apparently it had belonged to a saw mill, but the shed had no roof.

We spent the night sitting with our backs against a fallen tree trunk and covered our heads with the tent’s nylon.

It was an adventure.

It was the only time we had to set up camp twice during the same trip.

Honestly, I can’t remember another time when I had so much fun!

So here’s to the Boy Scout movement!

Trivia: I took the following text from the fact page of Boy Scouts of America. I read the story in the official manual years ago. The story is a fascinating example of faith, or destiny or whatever you want to call life-changing events. The link is here:

In 1909, Chicago publisher William D. Boyce lost his way in a dense London fog. A boy came to his aid and, after guiding the man, refused a tip, explaining that as a Scout he would not take a tip for doing a Good Turn. This gesture by an unknown Scout inspired a meeting with Robert Baden-Powell, the British founder of the Boy Scouts. As a result, William Boyce incorporated the Boy Scouts of America on February 8, 1910.

Here is the link to the Scouts in Honduras.

Now on Twitter

2011-06-13T08:20:00.000-06:00

I just added the "follow me" button on the right column.

Let the music play

2011-06-10T12:54:00.000-06:00

What do you listen to when you’re writing? Besides the muse, I mean.

Is it pop, rock & roll, rhythm and blues? How about some heavy metal? Bohemian Rhapsody can do wonders for an action sequence.

Music is an integral part of my life. I listen to music while I’m driving, while I’m writing, I pay attention to score in most movies, etc. Actually, just recently I explained how I think my life feels like a movie, soundtrack included.

My personal music collection is just as varied as can be: from Beethoven to Bon Jovi, from The Doors to Lady Gaga, from Elvis to Michael Bublé. And Frank, of course, plenty of Frank.

I used to write while listening to pop singers, 70’s and 80’s most commonly, however, in recent days I’ve realized my preferences have moved towards classical melodies. Why the change?

I’m not sure. Easily, I could blame it on the fact that I’m nearing 40; but that’d be the easy way out. More than once I caught myself humming a song while, liked it or not, my fingers tapped away the lyrics. So, after repeated deletions of “Ice, ice, Baby”, “I want to hold your hand,” or “mamma mia,” I figured classical was the way to go.

What are your music-hearing habits?

Interviewed at Lindy's Lair

2011-06-02T21:45:00.001-06:00

Fellow WCP author John Lindermuth cornered me with a in-depth Q&A.

Read it here:

http://jrlindermuth.blogspot.com/

Thank you John, it was fun.

Water for Elephants comming soon to Honduras

2011-05-29T16:50:00.000-06:00

Treasure Hunt Trailer

2011-05-01T13:32:00.000-06:00

Here is the video for my thriller novel Treasure Hunt:

My first time in New York

2011-04-15T11:11:00.000-06:00

Have you ever been to New York?

The below link is a short blog about the first time I visited the Big Apple.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7959963/new_york_new_york_or_the_soundtrack.html

This week's roundtable

2011-04-12T09:29:00.000-06:00

The topic for this week's roundtable at The Big Thrill is an interesting one to me because I am a confessed movie freak.

"What can thriller writers learn from the movies?"

The difference between books and movies are abysmal, but that does not prevent us from learning a few tricks from the other trade.

Here is the link, feel free to jump right in:

http://www.thebigthrill.org/2011/04/coming-april-11th-to-17th-what-can-thriller-writers-learn-from-the-movies/

Recent interview

2011-04-11T15:50:00.001-06:00

I was interviewed recently by Elaine Cantrell. It was a fun one to do.

Here is the link:

http://elainepcantrell.blogspot.com/2011/01/welcome-jh-bogran.html

My first contribution to Associated Content

2011-04-04T10:02:00.000-06:00

Well, I had to give it a try.

It's about credit cards and the problems you can encounter if not paying attention to the small letter. As well as other pointers to help choose the card that serves you best.

Here is the link:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/7919079/watch_out_for_the_credit_cards_pitfalls.html?cat=3

Promo Giveaway: Absolution Withheld

2011-03-04T14:24:00.000-06:00

I’m giving away my short story Absolution Withheld. It was originally published in the now defunct Amazon Short programs but now is yours to have. To get it, I won’t ask you to search for hidden pictures, or fill out a questionnaire, or buy any thing upfront. This time it’s a giveaway plain and simple.

Just email me at jhbogran at gmail.com and specify if you'd like PDF of kindle friendly file.

Time to Celebrate

2011-01-01T02:29:00.000-06:00

Time to celebrate. New Year. New book out.

Check out Treasure Hunt at its new home at Whiskey Creek Press:

http://www.whiskeycreekpress.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=860&zenid=922f9e1f01dcaa22f6edcd71907b6f08

Free Chapter: Deeds of a Master Archer

2010-09-23T15:26:00.001-06:00

Deeds of a Master Archer
By J. H. Bográn

CHAPTER ONE
Los Angeles, November 13, 2006

The doorbell loudly rang, but nobody showed up. Douglas Rhodes rapped on the front door. Still nothing. It was hardly the first time he arrived to an apparently empty house. He chuckled to himself as he passed his hand over the few stubs beginning to grow on top of his Marine-regulated shaved head.
Stepping down from the porch, the old wood creaked under Rhode’s heavy black military boots. He walked toward the garage where he found nothing but the decades-old black oil stain on the floor. Mrs. Johnson was not home. Going around the house and checked the corner window on the second floor shut tight. He frowned, then a cold droplet of water splattered on his hand. He looked up and examined the air conditioner unit right next to the window. Doug sighed, pulled out his cell phone from his khakis, and quickly typed a text message.
Old habits die hard, he mused. His friend Tom Johnson always wore headphones while surfing the Internet, rendering a doorbell useless. Douglas imagined his friend slouching over the computer, clicking frantically on the mouse with his right hand while holding a large plastic cup filled to the rim with soda in his left.
By the time he went around to the front door, Tom stood in the doorframe. Nearing six feet in height, he had the thin but hard body of a professional basketball player. He wore faded jeans, an old loose Lakers T-shirt, and a big smile on his face. Walking up to meet him, Douglas smiled as he spotted a large red plastic cup in his friend’s hand. They embraced as only life long friends do: without shame, without fear. It has been three years since they'd seen each other last. Doug was about to embark on a tour of duty in Iraq and Tom was back from college with a major in Literature History.
“I thought you’d never come back from the war,” Tom stood back.
“And I thought you’d never graduate!”
They were both twenty-four. Having known each other since grammar school, they grew up together and always kept in touch once they went their separate ways after high school.
“It’s good to see you.”
“Yeah, come on in,” said Tom.
Doug stepped into the foyer. “What is it good-ole Mrs. Johnson wants us to move this time?”
“The washing machine down in the basement. She finally got a new one. It’s coming tomorrow.”
“I don’t think she’s paying us this time,” Doug fondly remembered how many jobs they had done on the house since Mr. Johnson abandoned the family some fifteen years before.
“Not really. She offered the same she paid for mowing the lawn.”
“Five bucks! Hell no, I rather do it for free.”
“That’s what she figured, I guess. But she said she’d leave a six-pack in the fridge for after we’re done.”
They shared a laugh, and crossed the foyer that reached the door to the basement below.
“Okay, let’s move the damn thing then.”
“Nah, let’s get some advanced payment,” countered Doug.
He went directly to the kitchen, opened the fridge, and true to her word, there sat a six–pack of beer waiting for them. Doug grabbed two cans, returned to the basement door, and tossed one to his friend.
“I thought I’d see you on the beach this morning,” commented Doug.
“Me too, but my mom ran over my board.” A sad and painful expression filled Tom’s face. It had taken him three years to save up enough money to buy it.
“How come?”
“For some reason, mom thought it a good idea to park in reverse so she could speed out the next morning. When she was backing in, she didn’t see the board in her rearview mirror and didn’t stop until she heard the loud crack,” Tom concluded with a grimace.
“Bummer.”
“Yeah.” He shrugged. “She brought it to the shop. They said they might be able to fix it, but it’d take a couple of days.”
Doug followed his friend down the stairs into the dark basement. A single bare light bulb hung from the ceiling. It took a few seconds for Doug’s eyes to adjust to the dim environment. Turning left, they passed a room that held a couple dozen canvases. Mrs. Johnson’s favorite pastime was getting busy with brushes and oil colors. The room was littered with paintings in different stages of production, from sketches to those just awaiting a finishing touch. The laundry room could be seen from the door of the makeshift art studio. She claimed the thumping of the machine actually soothed her as she reached out for her muses.
“Remember that time we were playing hide and seek?” asked Tom.
“You mean the time you hid inside the machine?”
“Yeah,” Doug chuckle.
“Yep, I thought your mother had a heart attack when she opened the door and you busted out of there!”
Tom sighed, his expression dreamy as if reliving that day.
With all his might, the war veteran pulled the weighty old-model machine a few inches away from the wall while Tom unscrewed the two hoses. Just as he was pulling the last hose, his cell rang.
“Hello?” There was a brief silence, then, “Oh, hi, Mom. Yes, we’re in the basement moving the washer now. Where do you want us to put it?”
Doug sat on the dusty floor, not minding a little dirt on his pants, especially after his stint in the desert of Iraq. He sipped his beer as he watched his friend talking into the phone, Tom rolling his eyes at his mother’s questioning.
A sound similar to a passing truck filled the room. Doug turned to face Tom, his eyes wide with surprise. The faint sound grew louder until it caused the house to vibrate. The single light bulb swayed, throwing dancing shadows all over the room, and the floor shook as the dryer rocked, hitting against the wall.
“Earthquake!” Tom’s voice was a cross between a squeak and a shout.
He dropped the phone as he rushed towards the door. Doug realized he could not get all the way up, so he desperately crawled on all fours reaching the door ahead of his friend.
A deafening thunder preceded the cracking by a split second. The crack moved like a lightning bolt through the wood floor from the outside wall, following the direction of the door.
“Tom!” Doug stretched his hand to get a hold of him.
Tom lost his footing, and fell through the gap. Only his hands were visible as he gripped the edge.
Without thinking, Rhodes flew through the air, landed on his stomach, and caught Tom’s hand just as Tom let go. Tom’s other hand felt sweaty when he grabbed Doug’s wrist. Their eyes met, Tom’s wide with fear, pleading not to let him drop. The rumble subsided as the shaking stopped, Doug breathed with a sense of relief.
“It’s over,” yelled Doug.
Doug pulled until Tom secured a foothold. The soldier changed position to better haul his friend the rest of the way up, and slowly, he got on his knees. Tom finally reached the edge, with half his body out of the gap.
Not a second later, the movement resumed more vigorous than before. Doug heard the glass break on the small basement windows.
“Shit!” yelled Tom.
The gap widened even more, this time taking both men who had been sitting on the border. Doug’s elbow hit hard as he flipped to face the wall. With his outstretched hands he tried to get hold of something, scratching with his nails and ignoring the pain. His fall stopped with a jolt as his hand found a protruding edge to grasp. He caught a glimpse of Tom having the same hard time, a nasty cut bled on his friend’s left cheek.
The earthquake stopped as quickly as it began and the basement turned deadly silent. Doug wondered if it was a quiet prelude to a bigger storm. Moments later, his theory proved right. The great wood framework of the house creaked louder and louder until the house collapsed in on itself. The ceiling collapsed, and with a strenuous bang, struck the very spot where they had been sitting before the second quake. Debris found its way through the crack, and hit both young men. Tom, with a piercing scream, fell into the chasm.
“Tom!”
Another meteor-like piece of wood grazed Doug’s right temple. He closed his eyes in pain. Letting go, he opened his eyes only to see the dark edge grow smaller and smaller as it slipped further and further away. He screamed but heard nothing, though he felt the strain on his throat. Doug’s last conscious thought before everything faded into pitch black was that the temperature was dropping rapidly. Too rapidly.

Thrillerfest

2010-07-04T17:06:00.000-06:00

Thriller fest is this week. Really excited to participate in my first ever author's conference. yeah!

lempiras

2010-06-09T07:32:00.000-06:00

Need a rin to ring me

2010-06-04T08:45:00.000-06:00

Coins 1

2010-06-01T09:29:00.000-06:00

Diff'rent Strokes

2010-05-28T14:02:00.000-06:00

As a by product of the 70's and 80`s, Diff'rent Strokes is a landmark of television history. Gary Coleman's catchphrase "What'choo talkin' 'bout, Willis?"was for a while even a part of daily vernacular. Even in my native Spanish were he said "De qué hablas Willis?"
I have just learned of his demise at the age of 42. Rest in Peace Gary Coleman.

Here's a wikipedia bio if anybody want's to ready further:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Coleman

Newest ITW member

2010-04-26T20:29:00.000-06:00

Hi there.
I just registered into the writer's organization dedicated to my favorite genre: The International Thriller Writers.
That is just the first step, since I am planning to register to what they call their "flagship event", the ThrillerFest to be held in NYC during the first week of July.
So, I will be posting about the event while there.

Okay, okay, I will post some more way before then.

Visit them at: http://www.thrillerwriters.org/

February news

2010-02-25T20:38:00.000-06:00

The new year brought many things, hopes, dreams plans. But also it brought an offer from a publisher to make available Treasure Hunt.
I am signing with them and will be relaunching the first adventure of the Falcon pretty soon.
More to come...

How the Honduras crisis boosts Venezuela's Chávez

2009-07-08T12:15:00.000-06:00

Interesting reading:

http://www.csmonitor.com/2009/0708/p06s04-woam.html

See how we are mere pawn...

It happened in Washington!

2009-07-08T07:26:00.000-06:00

Yesterday afternoon was a good day for Honduras democracy. Former President Zelaya met with U.S. Secretary of State Hillay Clinton and it seems the tide has finally turned.
After hiding behind his dictator friends who threaten to invade Honduras, a failed attempt to return to the country that cost the life of a 19-year-old lad, and the international proof that OAS is biased and in its current presidency at an all-time-low in both common sense and functionality. Mel Zelaya finally threw himself at the mercy of the country he had said was the cause of all our troubles. After the meeting, Zelaya agreed to open conversation with President Michelletti, to be moderated by the Peace Nobel Prize winner Oscar Arias.
Gone are not the troubles, this is not the magic spell, but a change in attitude is the first steps towards a solution. Guess who was left out of the scene? You guessed it, Hugo Chavez and his army get to stay in Venezuela. The old adage that if not part of the solution, he was part of the problem falls on Chavez as a tailor-made suit.
Let us hope, that cool heads prevail in Costa Rica tomorrow so we can go on with our lives.

Our special thanks to Hillary Clinton who made it possible!

Situation in Honduras

2009-07-06T12:02:00.000-06:00

As a writer of fiction tales, I tried to keep away from political issues. However, the current events at my home country have touched the inner core of my never-before-known patriotism.

We had a President elected by the people, but after three years in office, and a hard turn towards the left, he was preparing himself to dissolve the Congress and the Supreme Court. Thus, prompting the afore-mentioned to take steps into separating Mr. Zelaya from the Presidency.

Why the Armed Forces instead of the police? No disrespect to police officers, but Army was better equipped to handle the send-off of a President. The Military was not after the power, they were after the President, and turned him, safe and sound, to another nation. Why? Simply put, to avoid bloodshed. Not a single casualty had been reported until Zelaya, most stubbornly, attempted to return to Honduras. So, you can see, the correct choice was taken.

What surprises me the most is that universal condemnation of our country, both by United Nations and Organization of American States, without as much as making sure the events that took place on Jun 28, were indeed legal albeit not understood. The responses seemed biased, to say the least. I understand that they were defending the figure of the Presidency and not Zelaya himself, but they picked the wrong example to do it. When Mr. Insulza visited our country, very arrogantly did not cared about the documents that he was shown, did not meet with the new President Micheletti. He was obviously just going through the motions to fulfill his own private agenda. We were trialed and convicted without chance to prove our case.

Now, Mr Zelaya is begging, on National TV, in fact demanding, that President Obama sends troops to return him to power! And this is the same guy who claims he is non-violent? The same guy who approved the distribution of abortive pills (not contraceptives), and the same guy that without much paperwork sent his Secretary to withdraw from Honduras Central Bank40 million Lempiras (About 2 Million US Dollars) in cash!

And to add insult to injury, we had just discovered that even though shipped out on his pajamas, he had his Honduran-government-issued credit card stashed somewhere for he spent 80 thousand dollars on expensive suits, hotels and food in only 5 days! Apparently, he lived by the AMEX motto of “don´t leave home without it!”

There is a site: http://www.laverdadenhonduras.com/ that I invite all of you to see. There are transcripts and English translations of the documents and chronology of the chain of events that required the ousting of an imminent dictator.

So, in lieu of the above, I could not keep quiet. The recent death of the king of Pop has only reminded me of the chorus line of one of his most controversial songs: “All I wanna say is that they don’t really care about us!” It seems sadly accurate of our situation.

Take advantage of a 50% discount

2008-04-01T21:12:00.000-06:00

Don´t know exactly why or for how long, but all I can tell you is that all Red Rose Publishing books are at a 50% off at Fictionwise.

Yep, you read correct, 50% off.

So just clink on the below link and the miss this chance!

http://www.fictionwise.com/servlet/mw?action=view&template=publisher.htm&publisherid=1099&index=0&sortby=b.NumberSold&sortorder=ASC&formattype=

Check out the new reviews!

2008-03-30T10:48:00.000-06:00

Here´s the link to the newest review for LM2T done my Manic Readers:

Love Me Two Times - 3.5/5 Stars -

http://manicreaders.com/index.cfm?disp=reviews&bookid=773

"...JH Bogran creates a light and fun romance that makes you smile. The characters are well done and the situation is comical to say the least. Bogran earns his stars with Love Me Two Times."

Buy it HERE!

The Outpost - 4/5 Stars -

http://manicreaders.com/index.cfm?disp=reviews&bookid=767

"...a cute science fiction short story in which the action is quick and the suspense palatable...I enjoyed the story and would like to read more similar tales from JH Bográn..."

Buy it HERE!

My deepest gratitude to Nicole and SteviB. Glad you enjoyed the little worlds I created.

wwwjhbogran.net

News from The Outpost

2008-03-21T12:33:00.001-06:00

My recently released short is getting its own share of spotlight.

Go to:
http://nenscl.blogspot.com/2008/03/celebrating-stpattys-day-with-my-first.html

Surprise, surprise!

2008-03-07T11:04:00.000-06:00

Today I discovered something interesting: as you know, I was born and live in Honduras, Central America. Although I was never a big fan of the America Idol show, I was surprised to learn that on of the finalist for this 7^th season is a 17 y.o. that has Honduran blood.

David Archuleta’s mother is Honduran, and he has been to the country and has even performed here!

Well, that is good for the moral of the country I should think.

Where are you on Tuesday Nights?

2008-03-04T21:43:00.000-06:00

After a long absence, I finally made it to one of my favorite live chats on the net: The ones hosted by Coffee Time Romance. Every Tuesday they have at least 3 authors, if not a whole publisher!

Last night, I had a great time. I had the chance to read good excerpts to include them into the “TBR” list and most important, managed to make some new friends!

If you don’t believe me, just check my friends count at “My Space”, never before has it seen such a leap in count!

So, Danette, Jenna, Angela, Kerry: Nice to meet you! And of course, Karenne, Liada, Lainey and the many more that make a place so cozy!

Today is February 29!

2008-02-29T16:10:00.001-06:00

Today is very special day.

Rare, because it only happens every four years. I wonder about the people born on Feb 29, do they celebrate every year on the 28^th then one humongous party every four? Or they only celebrate every four? Men, those kids would have been really miserable getting presents so long apart!

Anyway, I did not want to let this day pass us by without even stopping for a second to reflex on how unusual it is.

Unfortunately, not everything is peachy...

2008-02-28T08:39:00.000-06:00

Yes, I know I should be glad to receive good news. And I am, just this week I got my first review for Love Me Two Times, but also a new release: The Outpost.

I’m also gearing up for the release party, so no problems there.

However, when I was driving my kids to school this morning, my car started making some funny noises, especially when I was turning. Then the steering wheels started to shake wildly, like when you have a bump on a tire. I stopped, kneeled to see something, don’t know exactly what I was looking for since my knowledge in mechanics is limited to make sure the car has gas and oil (;-) ). So obviously, I didn’t see anything. I got back in the car, finally arrived to the school and when the kids got out and I accelerated, nothing happened!

Well, not exactly nothing, I felt and heard a noise coming from underneath the car. Although I don’t have my mechanic on “speed dial” he is on my cel’s phonebook. He said told me to leave the key with somebody at the school and he’s come to tow it later in the morning.

Already alerted the mrs. As she would have to pick up Daniel and Sebastian after school, also alerted the loan officer for some fast cash because only God knows how much is this going to cost me! Lol.

So in the words of Freddie Mercury:

But it's been no bed of roses
No pleasure cruise -
I consider it a challenge before the whole human race -
And I ain't gonna lose -
We are the champions!

The Outpost is out!

2008-02-28T08:16:00.001-06:00

My short sci-fi story that I was refering to a couple of posts back has been released today!

The Outpost
J. H. Bográn
Mainstream: Sci Fi
ISBN: 978-1-60435- 048-7
Cover Artist: Red Rose Publishing
Editor: Nancy Gail
Word Count: 1,300
Release: February 28th, 2008

BUY NOW - $0.99

Murphy's Law, is there anything else that can go wrong?

Karl Jackson and Joseph Doyle are stationed aboard Track 7, an outpost monitoring the traffic in and out of the solar system. When Karl wakes up with his nose pressed against a metal plank, he soon realizes that the lack of gravity is only the beginning of his problems.

Is gravity their only problem or is there more to it?

First review for Love Me Two Times

2008-02-27T16:41:00.000-06:00

Can you see me jumping up and down?

Well, it coldn't be over better news, I got the first review for Love Me Two Times.

" Some women can totally change their mood by simply making a change in their hairstyle. Wear it up and it's sophistication, down and it's carefree fun. But, when Paul Barry doesn't notice the change from down to ponytail, and his date goes from Mary to Marion, he's in for a wild courtship in J.H.Bogran's Love Me Two Times...it is packed with laughs and woes as Paul falters now and then in keeping his women straight. Two-timing a woman was never this much hard work!"

You can read the whole review HERE!

Thank you very much to Novelspot for taking the time to review my story.
And obviously you can get your own copy at Red Rose Publishing!

The Outpost

2008-02-27T15:48:00.000-06:00

I just received the most wonderful news from my publisher: The Outpost will be released on Feb/28!!!

Since I want you to know what the heck I'm talking about, here's a small excerpt and coverart for your ease ref.

THE OUTPOST

BLURB

Karl Jackson and Joseph Doyle are stationed aboard Track 7, an outpost monitoring the traffic in and out of the solar system. When Karl wakes up with his nose pressed against a metal plank, he soon realizes that the lack of gravity is only the beginning of his problems.

EXCERPT:

“Joe, my space suit is not working properly. I'm getting dizzy. Which is the fastest way to the door?” said Karl into his radio.
Joe Dyles’ voice came after a second, “Right on, partner. Let me see….Okay, turn to your left and go as fast as you can. I'm heading down to the chamber to help you get in.”
Karl followed his partner’s direction but found himself facing the rear of a thruster. He saw a gleam of pure white light growing into a flame right in the center of the hollow exhaust. An invisible forced pressed his chest hurling him away from the station.
Confused and dizzy, he tried desperately to grab one of the handles but he was a millisecond too late: the station was whirling away!

END OF EXCERPT

J. H. Bográn

http://www.jhbogran.net/
Love Me Two Times - Red Rose Publishing Available Now!

Absolution Withheld - Amazon Short Available now!

The Outpost - Red Rose Publishing Feb 28, 2008

For Hondurans only, maybe

2008-02-26T11:52:00.000-06:00

I received the following mail requesting my vote for Natural Reserve, particularly one located in my home country.
Rio Plátano has already been granted recognition by the Unesco,
http://www.unesco.org/mabdb/br/brdir/directory/biores.asp?code=HON+01&mode=all

Here´s the text of the email:

Hello dear friends! Have you heard about the selection of new seven NATURAL wonders of the world? Honduras is participating with a beautiful place known as the Rio Platano Biosphere. We need you to vote at the following web site
http://www.new7wonders.com/nature/en/liveranking/

When voting, select Honduras as position No. 1 if possible. We are listed under North America . There are six other different votes you need to select, and as good North Americans you would be voting for places in your country. Honduras does not have resources to protect this beautiful area, but if we figure among the seven wonders maybe our government would try to protect it better. Please help, thank you.

Commenting the Oscars

2008-02-25T14:24:00.001-06:00

As a movie fan, I cannot watch a show like the “Oscars” and have nothing to say about it.

Being the 80th uninterrupted annual ceremony I can understand, an agree, that a little celebration and more homage than average is in order.

I think the host did a good job, a bit on the cruel side of jokes, but funny nonetheless.

I was surprised to see they gave a chance to the lady in the duet who had won for best song. Was it something to do with the host calling him names right after his acceptance speech? I can’t locate any gossip blog about it (a little help in the comments section would be appreciated).

What the list of nominated movies showed me this year was that I have a lot of catching up to do for the only one I’ve seen is “Pirates of the Caribbean 3!” Other years I’m only missing a few…mmm…

Other movie that I was surprised to see receiving lots of nominations was “The Bourne Ultimatum.” Very rare that 3rd sequels get so many. Okay, Return of the King is a special case of its own. What I mean is, did Rocky III, or Saw III, or Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, or The Godfather 3 got these many nominations?

Way to go for the Cohen brothers! But they looked out of words by the time to got the 3rd Oscar, don’t you think?

I loved the way Cameron Diaz couldn’t say ¨Cinematography¨ but was able to charm her way out of it with her smile!

How much would Nintendo Wii have paid to be quite possibly the best joke of the evening? That is subliminal advertisement at its best!

And lastly, don't forget to visit: http://www.oscar.com/

A picture and a thought

2008-02-22T22:44:00.000-06:00

As many of you know, I live in San Pedro Sula, Honduras. Although the picture right next to these lines is not from my home city, it is a landscape of the country’s capital Tegucigalpa. Still, I think the view is breathtaking.

I visited there last weekend to attend a family engagement. The four hour drive was hard on the kids but they all enjoyed the green mountainous scenery, well, truth be told 2 of 3 fell asleep after the first hour.

A long time ago I was channel surfing as we all men do after the invention of the TV remote, I came across “Jeopardy” and was intrigued by the question that covered almost the entire screen:

Only Capital City in the world that does not have a railroad system.

It seemed to me like a $1,000 question, mostly because I didn’t know the answer, or at least I thought I didn’t.

The contester failed to respond and the camera zoomed into the little blue square that flipped revealing the white letter answer:

TEGUCIGALPA

I will not go into the details of the sordid story behind the reasons of why we don’t have a rail road but it gave enough material for a 400-page book published back in the 90´s.

It was not the original Honduras’ capital but the legend tales it became so 1880 on account of some high-society gossiping about the then-President Marco Aurelio Soto´s wife in the former capital city Comayagua. It is amazing all the things we men do for our women!

Hope Mrs. Soto thought it was romantic!

The contest at RRP

2008-02-22T22:38:00.001-06:00

The publisher who's signed up "Love Me Two Times" has begun a new contest that is to run until Dec.

Everyone who buys 4 books or more, at one time, is entered to win a pair of black and white diamond earrings!

10kt white gold 1.30ctw round black and white diamond earrings. The drop measures 13/16 inch and the width 1/2 inch with omega backs. ERV=$1200.00

The Drawing is December 10th, 2008

So visit http://www.redrosepublishing.com/ and get 4 books, then go again and get another 4 books to double your chances of winning! ;-)

Weaving Magic

2008-02-22T11:22:00.000-06:00

Merlin Castell is not only a fellow Honduran, but I also had the opportunity to meet him, so I’m happy for his triumphs.

WAY TO GO MERLIN!

PRESS RELEASE

WEAVING MAGIC

LOS ANGELES, CA – DESIGNER MERLIN CASTELL IS BEST KNOWN FOR HIS HAUTE COUTURE TAILORED FITTED JACKETS, CRAFTED FROM HIGHLY UNUSUAL FABRICATION. HIS PIECES ARE POPULAR WITH CELEBRITIES, MUSIC, FILM, AND TELEVISION FOLKS, TRENDSETTER'S.THE MERLIN CASTELL LINE HAS A HIGH HIP FACTOR RANKING. AND IS BECOMING ONE OF THE MOST TALKED ABOUT COLLECTIONS IN LOS ANGELES – RANGING IN PRICE FROM $150.00 - $1,000.00 TO HIS CUSTOM MADE AND COUTURE GARMENTS THAT CAN SELL FOR MORE THAN $10,000.00.HIS DESIGNEES HAS BEEN FEATURED ON SUCH PROGRAMS AS THE “THE INSIDER”, “WEALTH TV’S WHAT TO WEAR”TO NAME A FEW. ALSO MERLIN CASTELL HAS BEEN FEATURED IN BOTH NATIONAL AND REGIONAL PRINT SUCH AS “APPAREL NEWS”,“WWD”,“LOS VEGAS MAGAZINE”TO NAME A FEW. AND CELEBRITIES LIKE LENNY KRAVITZ, PARIS HILTON, THE INSIDERS VICTORIA RECANOAND MANY MORE. THE ULTRA HIP DESIGNER WAS RECENTLY VOTED “ONE OF THE TOP TEN TO WATCH OUT FOR" BY THE POOL TRADE SHOW.BORN IN HONDURAS, WITH AN INNATE AFFINITY FOR FASHION AND A KEEN EYE FOR STYLE, CASTELL NEVER DREAMED THAT HE WOULD BE SO FORTUNATE TO CRAFT A CARRIER OUT OF WHAT HE ENJOYS DOING THE MOST."MY JOURNEY HAS BEEN VERY MAGICAL," SAYS CASTELL. HIS CASUAL BUMP INTO THE FASHION INDUSTRY WAS ALMOST NEVER PURSUED. THE YOUNGEST IN A FAMILY CONSISTING OF FOUR BOYS AND THREE GIRLS, CASTELL WAS ALWAYS CONSULTED FOR HIS NOD OF APPROVAL WHEN IT CAME TO FASHION."ONE OF MY EARLIEST FASHION MEMORIES IS ONE OF ME DRESSING MY MOTHER. I THINK I WAS AROUND THE AGE OF EIGHT WHEN I STARTED TELLING HER WHAT SHE SHOULD AND SHOULDN'T WEAR," SMILES CASTELL.ODDLY ENOUGH, HE STARTED OFF AS AN ARCHITECTURE MAJOR IN COLLEGE AND WAS REDIRECTED BY AN INSTRUCTOR WHO REMINDED HIM TO APPLY HIS TALENTS TO ANOTHER CREATIVE FIELD. HE CHOOSES TO FOLLOW HIS PASSION."I STUDIED FASHION IN MEXICO, FOR A SHORT PERIOD OF TIME. THERE MY TEACHER COMPARED ME TO FRIDA KHALO, SAYING MY STYLE WAS DIFFERENT AND SUGGESTED I FURTHER MY STUDIES IN ITALY." CASTELL SAYS. "MY SPECIALTY IN SCHOOL WAS WORKING WITH LEATHER, BUT THERE WAS A TIME WHEN I COULDN'T AFFORD LEATHER. SO I STARTED TO APPLY MY IDEAS TO FABRIC AND THAT BECAME A WHOLE NEW SENSATION."BY THE END OF THE NINETY CASTELL HAD COMPLETED HIS STUDIES IN MILAN AND WAS PROVING TO BE A PRIME TALENT. HE MOVED TO LOS ANGELES AND LANDED A JOB AT HOT KISS. AFTER THERE HE WENT TO ULTRA HIP STORE RED BALLS WHERE HE WAS HEAD DESIGNER. WHILE THERE HE HAD THE CHANCE TO WORK WITH SUCH CELEBRITIES AS PAULA ABDUL, N'SYNCE, MARILYN MANSON AND MANY OTHERS."I believe a true designer is one who can bring a new concept in design. One who believes what he does is innovative and risky but does it because it comes from inside the heart," Merlin Castell.

You Can Also Find Us on My Space www.myspace.com/merlincastell

PLEASE VISIT ARE WEB SITE WWW.MERLINCASTELL.COM

MERLIN CASTELL SHOWROOM
CALAMART 110 EAST 9TH STREET SUITE A509
LOS ANGELES CA 90079
(213) 683-0416 TEL (213)683-0432

Simply Jazz

2008-02-21T23:18:00.000-06:00

I am no Jazz expert. People can see me finding no words when asked about my favorite artist. The truth is I have none, I know it goes well with a shot of Scotch though, ;-)

I do own a couple of compilation CD’s that I put on when I want to hear something other than crickets in the dead of the night while I’m typing. No, the gentle tap of my keyboard is not soothing!

Tonight I went to my first Jazz concert, the US Embassy sponsored “The Kelley Johnson Jazz Quartet” for a tour around Latin America.

So what did I do upon my arrival back home? Right after kissing my wife I logged into Amazon and found “Music is the Magic” and “Make Someone happy”, which are now into my wish list.

While enjoying the velvety voice of Kelley, I got to think about one particular thing about Jazz that I find interesting: it feels spontaneous, like it’s not rehearsed. I know it has to be considering the artists to be professionals, but the rhythm, the gentle swaying, the change in tone, tempo and live playing of actual instruments makes it a wonderful experience. Playback is not a choice with this guys (are you listening Milli Vanilly & Ashley Simpson?).
So here I am now, just about to go into Wikipedia and try to learn about the history of Jazz.

Hope you enjoy it too!

Wasabi update

2008-02-21T16:33:00.000-06:00

My puppy made it through the night! YES!
He is still weak and won't be running after my kids for a while, but he is already eating and looking better.
Than you very much to the people who expressed their concern either here or through emails.
Blessings to all!

Wasabi

2008-02-20T22:08:00.000-06:00

For those who don’t know, “wasabi” is a spice used on Japanese food.
I had the opportunity to try it this past weekend and it has a very strong taste like hot peppers. So when my wife’s aunt, who happens to be married to a Japanese gentleman, presented us with a puppy named “Wasabi” my inquisitional mind started racing conjectures about the name and the reasoning for it.
The lady’s response was final and fair: because just like the spice, the puppy will add flavor to your lives.
Wasabi is a 7-month-old beagle, that upon arriving stole a piece of all our hearts. At this point, I feel I must admit this is the first time I own a dog. Still, my 3 boys are quite happy with him: they play, they feed him and even bathe him (when they catch him of course, hehehe)

Here’s a pic of this future heart breaker:

Today we had our first dog emergency, Wasabi started with convulsions, pretty much like an epileptic attack, he vomited and then urinated. He became very, very stiff. After the slowest 20 minutes of my whole life, the vet showed up and without even bothering with proper courtesies, applied the first injection into the dog’s rear leg. When he stabilized the dog he finally took the time to bring us up to date on a very delicate matter:
Our dog had been poisoned!

The questions that entered this author’s mind are endless, but a quick inspection of his retch showed pieces of leaves, roots, intermixed with his Purina and even bits of plastic, the remains of the toys he likes to tear apart.
Right now, he is not his usual playful self, but keeps sleeping off and is very dehydrated. Me and my wife have just finished feed him some special serum to help him reestablish.

NEW BLOG

2008-02-20T08:16:00.000-06:00

Hello and welcome to my new blog.

Was it really necessary for me to start a new blog? I´d like to think so because the old one was getting heavily hit by spammers every day.
But also because somewhere along the line I stopped posting on it altogether and that is something that has to change in order to be a good blog.

So what is new right now?
First, since the closing of Chippewa Publishing, Treasure Hunt was been left orphan. I can’t make up my mind weather to make it available in print taking the “LULU option” or keep looking for another publisher. Since I’m also working on a sequel I’m even considering giving it away for people to get acquainted with Alexander Beck (The Falcon) before getting into “Business as Usual”

My romantic short “Love Me Two Times” is doing well at Red Rose Publishing and I’m learning to live with the fact of being referred to as “Romance Author”.

“The Outlook”, a sci-fi short is due for publication also at RRP. Don’t have exact date yet but should be somewhere around March.

As some of you might know I also write in my native tongue, and “Heredero del Mal” is earning a good buzz, and people seem interested. The fact of putting Adolf Hittler on the cover seems to be drawing readers. And to think I was against it in the beginning, but my publishing house insisted on it.

Don’t forget to visit my website: www.jhbogran.net

So welcome back, don’t forget to leave a comment! J