Are there lions in South America?

Since this is the big question that Hobbes asks, I thought I had better do some research. There were lions in South America and North America for that matter, but thousands of years ago. Today they only exist in Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. Google is amazing! Pages and pages of information on lions, every aspect of their behavior which will be fun to somehow include in the story, especially the fact that they sleep 20+hours a day. But they are the most social of the Big Cats, which fits in with Hobbes personality.

First Lines

"It was a dark and stormy night"...Or "Once upon a time and a very good time it was". . .I have thought of one. . .
"Are there any lions in South America? I am going to find out!" This could be a good start, so with that line I have written the first page. The next question is: what do I call myself (and Rod) in the story. Gamma Tasha and Papa Rod sounds too cumbersome. Natalie and Rod, too formal, Tasha and Rod? Perhaps that would work, it's not like I cannot change it. Our stewardess on the cruise called Hobbes, Mr. Hobbes, so when I introduce her, Hobbes will say, "Alice called me Mr. Hobbes! It makes me feel so important!"

Friday, August 28th

As I tentatively attempted to begin this blog, I realized how non-techy I am.  But, I have begun and that is always the hardest part.  I won't write Hobbes Goes to South America here, but write about writing the book.  I cannot compose well on the computer.  I have to see my handwriting and the best handwriting I do is done with a very fine tipped pen on blank paper.  Yesterday I bought the paper and pens so now---no excuses.  Thinking back to my favorite books from childhood helps.  Babar was one, Madeline another--"In an old house in Paris that was covered with vines. . . ."  First lines are very important, so the beginning step is to create the first line for Hobbes, which is my goal for today.