Jamie n Frank- The Lamps are Different but the light is the same-ish.

September 11, 2017 by Sherry W.

Jamie and Frank.

Both married Claire. Is that where their similarities end?

fjc

Some may say “Yes, a historian and a warrior don’t have ANYTHING in common.”

Oh…but not I. They have a few traits that make them similar. I think it would be strange if they didn’t- considering Claire did love them both…once.

They know their wife..wives… “place”. Meaning Claire won’t be put in a place, much less stay there. Jamie gave Bonnie Prince Floofypants that “Uh-huh sure…YOU tell her” face when he implied his wife would listen to her husband…cuz that is what they do. Frank in S3Ep1 stood behind Claire…knowing… in this moment she might just tell the Dean at Harvard to kiss her combat boots before she lost one up his arse. Knowing what your wife is made up of…is a trait some men lack however, Frank n Jamie…they know.

and like it…
Cat like reflexes are needed. Claire likes to throw things and unless you are quick about it, you will get a candlestick or an ashtray up side the head. Both of these men are gifted with agility. Good thing too. We like their faces and Claires aim can be deadly accurate.

So does Claire …
Modern men in their not so modern worlds. Jamie, in the 18th century learned a few lessons from Claire…it is one thing to love your partner…it is another to release the things you were brought up to believe. When those ideas created unhappiness (and rage) in Jamies partner…he looked deeper and chose to change how he viewed the world. Thats some progressive stuff for a man in centuries passed. Franks upbringing likely didn’t gravitate too far from the basic ideas Jamie had, however, being in the war and knowing his wife was there too, likely brought the scope of her ability to be independant into focus. He may not have always liked it…but back to #1 – he accepted it.
Honour with a side of honour and a pinch more of the honour. Jamie and Frank pretty much gathered all the honour in all the centuries. Frank, I mean really. This guy stayed with a woman who flew through the past, married and loved ( had a lot of the love) another man. A man there is no competing with, a ghost AND he raised his child for him. He was in it for the long haul. Jamie, his honour is from an age where a mans honour was more valued that what was in his sporran. So, They have that.
Double, double toil and trouble. These guys are pretty chill on the most part. It takes a bit for them to blow their gaskets…but when they do, take cover. Not the road ragey kind of tip offs…these are the slow burn to the explosion. More like a long fused dynamite than a firecracker. Which is preferred – as Claire can actually attempt to put it out before it is too late.

Bonus similiarity- Mmmmmmmmmm BacON! Frank enjoys himself some bacon. He said so – I figure, Jamie’s all about the meat – so yeah…he’d be a bacon lover. And for alls who say “What about Canadian Bacon?” Ham…thats ham…only people NOT from Canada call it Canadian bacon. blink blink

For reals, can you picture Jamie as a vegetarian?

Eat yer GREENS Aye?!?!

Since us ABOotlanders have chosen not to live tweet with each episode or do recaps, we are going to do an #OutlanderCAN twitter aftershow. We would love for you to join us. There will be some observations and discussions about the episode of the week. The more activity, the longer we will engage.

Let’s take this voyage together and make this season the best yet. Fandomstyle snort

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Fandomstyle…gangnamstyle…samsies right?

Until next time, Sher

ABOotlander Founder

The Outlander Podcast gets some ABOotlander LOVE!

August 11, 2017 by Sherry W.

The ABOotlander LOVE series bring you The Outlander Podcast. They started in 2013 and were the only podcast dedicated to our fandom. There are a whole stream of them now and Ginger & Summer are still all kinds of awesome.

I found the Outlander Podcast when I started my own twitter journey into the wild world that is the Outlander fandom…forever ago. It makes me very grateful to know humour & intelligent conversation isn’t leaving the fandom as long as they are around.

Let’s meet the fun behind The Outlander Podcast. Their names are Summer & Ginger, or Ginger & Summer.

The Outlander fandom pulls all kinds into their orbit. Summer and Ginger were not immune. This is a recap of what made them a part of this huge & wonderful world.

Summer: I found the books in the 90s, while I was living in New York and wanted a huge novel to read during my long subway commutes. I first read Drums of Autumn, and could quickly tell that I did not have the first book in the series. When I finished, I made sure to get Outlander, and so many things made sense! I’ve been hooked ever since.

Ginger: Summer introduced me to Outlander in the late 90s. I didn’t actually read it at first. But she kept on me. We actually found that I had a copy of Outlander in German on my bookshelf! (German is my second language.) Once I started reading them, I was hooked. When the Starz series was announced in 2013, I approached Summer with the idea of a podcast, and we were off.

With all the ways people share their love of Outlander, I was curious to hear more about why they chose a podcast.

Summer: I Blame Ginger.

Ginger: I had been listening to podcasts since 2008, and they were a unique medium to me. I was fascinated with the concept of creating your own show, using your own voice, literally, and putting it out there. It seemed scary, but I always thought I’d have a show of my own one day. When the Starz series was announced, I knew that this was something I wanted to be a part of, this electric atmosphere, this growing fan community. There were so many other wonderful blogs and sites out there, I wanted to do something new. And it just clicked. Our show started summer of 2013, a full year before Season 1 aired.

As fans of this diverse Outlander world we all hope to have an encounter with one those who helped create it. Summer & Ginger were lucky to have their share. Here are the ones they recall best.

Summer: You always remember your first… Attending the first Fan Event in Los Angeles, where they showed the first trailer for Season 1. That event cemented my belief that our beloved series was indeed in the right hands to be adapted for TV. Also I got a pic with Sam Heughan during the meet and greet portion of that event. I’ve been threatening to make it my Christmas Card ever since.

Here, let me.

Ginger: I’ve been going to book signings of Diana’s and attending Scottish Games where she appeared, for years. I think I will most remember seeing her at the 2002 Pleasanton Highland Games. I had a friend take a picture of me with her. She was there, surrounded by books, we were both comparatively so young looking! It wasn’t surreal at the time; it was fun. Now, however, looking back, it’s surreal. It’s likely she’ll not do such events anymore. I look back on her events of the early 2000s as nostalgic, and realize how lucky I was. I’m thankful to have been able to attend some wonderfully intimate events, the kind that don’t really take place anymore.

Diana with the honour of meeting Ginger

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Thinkin ’bout the good ole days

It’s enjoyable when we can watch/listen to others that are open to conversation. The Outlander Podcast has so many great moments. I asked the ladies to share their favourites with us.

Summer: I loved our interview with Diana Gabaldon (http://www.outlanderpod.com/49). We had heard her speak at a local event where she described her books as having specific shapes, which I was fascinated by. When we had her on, we asked her to describe them for our listeners.

Ginger: This is a difficult question. I think some of our favorite episodes, the ones that stick out, are the interviews, because you have time to go in depth with people and a topic. I think my favorite episodes are our interviews with voice actor Davina Porter. She narrated all of the Big Books and it is fascinating to be speaking with “Claire” (have to wrap your head around that!) and to learn about her process, hear about her background, is fascinating. http://www.outlanderpod.com/13 and http://www.outlanderpod.com/47

Also, our interview with Bear McCreary at San Diego Comic Con 2016. He revealed something very personal about how he came up with Faith’s Theme. Definitely worth a listen. http://www.outlanderpod.com/156

Sometimes a cast member can effect us in a way we aren’t expecting. Ginger shares her experience with a cast member that impacted her.

Ginger: Surprisingly, Tobias. He’s very magnetic, and of course I’m very attracted to his performance of BJR. Probably my favorite Season 1 character. While I’ve never hated Frank, his portrayal of BJR really made me get into Frank, he’s so great at both roles. And, in turn, I’ve become more interested in Frank as a character, in general. This has surprised me. When we did our recent discussion of Voyager chapter 19, wherein we say goodbye to Frank http://www.outlanderpod.com/177 , it was a tough one to get through. So I think Tobias’ portrayal of his characters has affected me even outside of the television series. It’s forced me to reconsider Frank. I quite like him now.

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Gotta love me

All of us have an idea what Outlander will look like in the years to come. Summer & Ginger are no different. They give us a taste of what they see in their crystal ball.

Summer: Like we always say, we want “All the Books.”

Ginger: I am happy that the series is on the air, period. Though anyone can appreciate the television series for what it is, it’s especially magical to long-time book fans who have been living with these characters for, some of us, almost 30 years! My vision for Outlander is selfish: I’d like to see all of the Big Books translated to screen, and also the Bulges. And if there are any spin- off series, I wouldn’t complain.

After engaging with Summer & Ginger, we may forget they have a life outside of our view of them. It is always nice to know a little extra something something.

Summer: I am mother to an 8 yr. old, who pays the bills working in an administrative capacity. (Just to clarify, her 8 yr.old does not pay the bills )

Ginger: I’m a linguist and instructional designer who likes to play guitar (not very well). I love to travel and always have a good audiobook ready.

We can be inspired by the things that inspire others. The ABOotlanders have promoted the #BeKind attitude since our inception. We share with our followers/friends it seems the same thing inspires Ginger & Summer.

Summer: I am inspired by random acts of kindness.

Ginger: I’m inspired by music, by nature, and kindness.

Our ABOotlander must ask (This is strictly for giggles – not serious at all) – If the ladies were to come to Alberta Canada and someone offered them a) Moose Droppings b) Beaver Tails c) Prairie Oysters d) Taber Corn…which would they choose & why?

Summer: I know for a fact what prairie Oysters are in the States so I’m gonna pass on those for sure… LOL My hope is that Moose Droppings are some sort of a confectionery treat is tempered by the fear that it may also be poop… so I’m gonna go with Beaver Tails, which, I am going to imagine, is like a donut-shaped like a beaver tail. But even if it did end up being an actual beaver tail… it is probably the most muscular part of the beaver and seasoned well could be good… (Wait were we allowed to Google what they are before answering? Cause I feel like Ginger Cheated… ;o) )

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deep fried yummy goodness #nomnomnom

Ginger: I would have to go with Taber Corn! Because I’d like to taste the corn from the place that gets the most sun n Canada.

The best corn comes from the back of a truck on the side of a road.

We are so grateful to Ginger & Summer or Summer & Ginger for agreeing to be a featured guest with our #ABOotlanderLOVE blog series.

Sher AKA SL

ABOotlander Founder and Friend

ABOotlander LOVE. Fan Videos w Julia LeBlanc

July 27, 2017 by Sherry W.

ABOOTLANDER LOVE is the ABOotlander way of spreading KINDNESS JOY & SUPPORT throughout the OUTLANDER Fandom.

The ABOotlander World FB Page is choosing some in the Outlander fandom who have made it their mission to add a touch of positivity & entertainment.

We randomly highlight bloggers, artists, podcasters, cast or crew members who simply share parts of themselves that bring happiness to those enjoying the World of Outlander.

I discovered todays ABOotlander LOVEs recipient on Twitter @jessicaleblanc1981 as a fellow Canadian in this fandom.

: the LOVELY Julia

Julia LeBlanc creates fan videos. Many shared by Diana Gabaldon. Julia’s are heartwarming, funny and all together a great way to quench your thirst caused by Droughtlander.

: GULP GULP *gasp* GULP

Julia’s interest in Outlander started in the same way many others have. “I had heard of it years ago, my sister was a huge fan of the book series, but I hadn’t read it. When she told me they were making a T.V. show I decided to watch it, I was hooked instantly. After the second episode I went online to read stuff about it and find out Claire and Jamie get married! What?! LOL so I immediately went out and bought the whole series. Read all 8 books in 10 weeks. I was sucked in.”

As many of us Outlander fans, Julia has a life outside of creating videos. She is a stay at home mom with two young kids. Her background is in education. spending 6 years studying child development and 10 years working in the field. Unfortunately, there aren’t any jobs available in the teaching field, where she lives so she and her husband decided to start a family. She has been a SAHM ever since. It’s a lot of work, but she has good time management skills, this makes it easier to fit her hobbies in and have “me time” when it is needed.

If you haven’t seen any of Julias videos…you are certainly missing another form of fan art. I was curious as to what inspired her to create the videos.

“After the 4 episodes or so, I went on YouTube and noticed people making them. I started to think of songs that I thought would be perfect for the series. I would do searches for the songs and couldn’t find anyone that had done them. Songs like “Turing Page”, “I Wanna Hold Your Hand” and “Against All Odds”. So during the fist Droughtlander, I decided to try and make one myself. I was shocked at how much I loved making them. I like trying different things in my videos, romantic, funny, involving the whole cast…it’s a lot of fun.”

Since this is the whole Outlander environment, being a fan is what we do here. I am always asking my fellow Outlanderites if they have had any exciting fancounters. Julia has a BIG ONE!

“Meeting Sam was a BIG deal for me. He is so charming and sweet. We waited for him for a long time in the cold. When I met him I told him that he had shared a video I made and he got excited. Which of course just made my day. And then he mentioned meeting me in an interview which was a thrill. He was sweet to all the fans there, he took time with us (as much as he could) and chatted with us. I have mentioned this before, but one thing I found really interesting happened while I was talking to the camera man waiting for Sam. The man told me that they have a lot of celebrities come in, but no one has been as nice and caring as Sam. He said Sam wanted to make sure he got to meet the fans, and was concerned because it was so cold. He said that we are very lucky to have him and he’s right. We are. I got to meet Cait too when she was in Toronto. I made a mad dash into downtown and got a quick meeting with her. There weren’t as many fans there (no one knew she was coming) so it didn’t last as long. She is even more stunning in person. And very warm. The whole thing happened so fast, she had to quickly go to another location. I met Diana too when she came to the Fergus Festival last summer, which was something I was looking forward to. She stayed late at the autograph signing for us and we were so grateful. I told her that she shared some of my videos. She told me I do a wonderful job with them. She also has this aura about her, I don’t think she stopped smiling the whole time. And listening to her speak was a thrill I never thought I would have. She was very funny and took time to answer many fan questions. I dream of meeting Tobias and I love Richard, Sophie, and Graham too. Hopefully one day I will meet them. But I’ve been very lucky to have such great experiences with my idols.”

I asked Julia if she had any favourite videos and she gave me links to other creators. It just goes to show that her love of making the videos isn’t limited to herself. She promotes and respects others doing that same thing she is. That really is what attracts us ABOotlanders to her. She is very kind.

Here are some of Julia’s personal recommendations:

“I really like Elena Vas videos. She’s so talented and has really inspired me to learn and try new things with my videos. I love this one Never Tear Us Apart: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuaD_ZHtIxU , “Good For You” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HFFVrzjYQCE&t=7s , and “Survivor” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJEnfxv_H9E

This is a beautiful one by Silverxvideso who also makes great videos “Already Gone” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEDUgY_fIgs “

Here are some of Julia’s videos that are sure to engage you.

Who Wants To Love Forever: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPSATBXAUAo&t=212s

Uptown Funk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_QyGgrFFbA

I Put A Spell On You: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWV0ZE1OHho&t=33s

Thinking Out Loud: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzvQqVyq82Q

Better yet. Subscribe to her You Tube channel YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/nancy777ca/videos

: https://www.youtube.com/user/nancy777ca

Each of us have characters and actors we gravitate to more than others and Julia is no different. She loves the whole cast and crew as she sees them to be inspiring. Everyday, it seems to change which one she is most inspired by. “I think it’s hard to pick one and my answer may change depending on what day you ask me. Today I’d probably pick Sam. He is so sweet and accessible to fans. He interacts with us and seems to genuinely have fun with his fans. It’s not at all to say the others don’t-they do! But His MPC is something that really is helping me and others live healthier, and overcome an obstacle, change something they’ve been wanting to. I can’t wait to get really started on it when the kids go back to school and I can be more organized again. And Jamie is probably my favourite character in the series”

Many Outlander fans have not had a lot of experiences in fandoms before and it is new territory. Julia talks about her walk in the fandom world.

“I’ve never really been in a fandom before. I was a bit in the Glee one, but I just followed towards the end-never participated. This is the first one I’ve really been in. It’s a lot of fun. To have people you could share ideas and creations with, so many talented people in the fandom. I love watching everyone’s labour of love. And I get really interested in other’s points of view. I don’t always agree, and sometimes it’s really hard to not get into arguments (I try though). Sometimes it’s hard to stay positive when you see some negativity. But overall, this is a great fandom. The vast majority of this fandom is wonderful, and very accepting, warm and encouraging. To the cast and crew but also to each other. It’s a community, and in the end, we all want our community to be a fun place.”

I am not a creative kinda person so when I come into contact with them. I want to know how their brains work. Knowing that they must have ideas and notions that spring up, I wanted to know what Julia had up her sleeve for Season 3.

“A few…last I counted I had over 70. Yes, I know I’m crazy. I have a few I’m really looking forward to doing. “Don’t Know Much”, “Battlefield (by Lea Michele)” …and I’m really looking forward to doing one for “A Thousand Years”, it will be a recap of their love up to the Print Shop. Every time I hear a song I wanna do it. And I get a lot of ideas from fellow fans.”

We all have a special dream for what Outlander will look like in the future. Julia is no different.

“Diana has said there will be 10 books, so I’m envisioning 10 seasons. I’m an optimist. I especially hope we get season 6, because ABOSA is my favourite book in the series-if I had to chose one. I’m envisioning a show with longevity, with a cast and crew that gets accolades not only from fans but from the entertainment industry. They are so deserving of awards and nominations; I know it will come. The books just get better and I know the series will too. I also would like Diana to write more episodes. It was so much fun watching all the little tidbits she shared and insights she gave us into writing an episode. I hope we get that again.

: PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE

Julia has a few words of encouragement to share with the Outlander fan family.

“Make it a fun place! I think everyone should have a place they can be a fan girl or fan boy the way they want to. Fandoms are supposed to bring joy. There are great people in this fandom. We are very lucky to have such interactive cast/crew and Diana! There are a lot of Twitter/Tumblr accounts and groups on Facebook that are a lot of fun.”

As per each time we interview someone…we ask this ABOotlander deep and meaningful question. What is your favourite – Moose Droppings,Prairie Oysters, Beaver Tails or Taber Corn?

When you say “moose droppings” you mean the chocolate treat right? LOL. I would choose Taber Corn…because I like corn, and I could say that without making a funny face.

You can also find Julia on Tumblr

https://www.tumblr.com/blog/moduinne-and-redjamie

Droughtlander is to end soon. Share some love and share the gifts that Julia presents you in the form of her videos.

Sher

AKA SL

AKA #ABOotlanderFounder

ABOotlander on the ground.

Jane of the Outlander Jungle! #ABOotlanderLOVE

December 11, 2016 by Sherry W.

Here we go again, bringing you some of our favourite Outlander fans who bring joy, entertainment and a kind place to rest our weary heads upon.

If you haven’t checked out our previous ABOotlanderLOVE spotlights, please do. We talked with Beth Wesson, the heart felt blogger. Connie V , the hilarious creator of one of the most popular Recap Blogs. Our last ABOotlanderLOVE blog was dedicated to the one & only Outlander Anatomy creator Dr. Karmen.

We encourage you to leave comments & let us know who you feel has worked to bring the Fandom together in a happy light. I would like to add, this isn’t a popularity contest, the admin team I work with and I simply feel what we feel. Since we are the purveyors of #AlwaysAssumePositiveIntent we gravitate to those people we have connected to within the fandom.

Lady Jane of the Outlander Jungle

This time we are Spotlighting – Lady Jane AKA Jane Sherwood. She is the lead admin for The Rank and File. If you are not a member of the Richard Rankin Fan Group , you are missing out on some fantastic banter, close friendships & seriously smart women.

Lady Jane’s humour & authentic nature comes out in droves as she drives the ship that is this fan group. It is worth noting that this fan group formed BEFORE Richard Rankin was cast as our beloved Roger Mac. I am almost certain the collective universal force that is this fan group was instrumental in RR loading up as Rog. When you have that many people throwing good vibes your way, you are bound to get caught up in it.

Please get to know & love Lady Jane as I do.

We all start somewhere on this Outlander journey. When did you first become interested in the world of Outlander?

About 18 years ago, I started reading, and rereading, the books. I’m afraid I actually don’t remember how I found them! (I blame a baby that didn’t sleep in the meantime and Mommy Brain.)

However I do remember precisely when I heard about the show. It was when Sam was cast, and I was at a family dinner. My sister, SIL, and I – all major book fans – squeed over his picture. Even though his hair was dark and short, we could see that he would be the perfect Jamie. And of course all the guys present rolled their eyes. The next day, I joined Outlander Facebook groups and the rest is history.

*Baby Brain…yes, the good ole days! My son was 1.5 when I found the books, lets just say thats when he learned to entertain himself.*

What inspired you to start your fangroup?

I met the co-founder of The Rank and File in the Heughligans FB group in early 2014. She posted this video of Richard doing Shakespeare and it truly made me a fan for life! The Crimson Field aired shortly afterwards in the UK. I opened a Richard Rankin Fans Twitter account – which promptly got so much attention and swooning over the captivating Capt. Gillan, that we decided it would be best to also open a private FB group for moral support.

The name was a difficulty for a long time… after all how many positive things go with “Rank”?! We finally settled on The Rank and File for its military connotation, and the fact that we wanted to be RR’s army. And so we are the VADs (Very Adorable Darlings) of RAF. It is pronounced “vads” like a word, and is from a joke, actually based on history, in The Crimson Field where the Voluntary Aid Detachment is referred to as such. Even today, not one single day goes by when someone somewhere doesn’t post how sad they are that it wasn’t renewed, but at least we got our Roger Mac.

Jane has done a great job of forming a community in their fangroup. Not an easy task. Curiosity bade me to ask HOW.

I have a professional background in web and graphic design, and video editing, so it naturally became a fun hobby for me to share professional quality media. However, what really built our group was its wonderful and intelligent members (the #BrainyFangirls!) and the great admin team I have: Amanda, Michelle, and Stephanie. We all support each other 100%, with no competition between us, and are committed to running a kind and respectful group.

During the past over two years since the RAF began, I’ve learned a lot about myself, and people in general. We constantly get comments from our members that The RAF is a unique place to share opinions freely in a supportive environment, so that is what I think what truly makes us stand out. We’ve all worked really hard at building that, and it has not been easy sometimes. None of us knew how to run a good fan group when we started, and sometimes how to best handle conflict. We were lucky we started very slow to be ready when the huge influx happened when he was cast as Roger!

Tidal Wave of FANS

We are somewhat different than other main OL fan groups as Richard already had a large and varied career before he was cast, which has since continued. He will be appearing in S2 of The Last Kingdom and a mini series called The Replacement for the BBC fairly soon. While OL may be our main topic lately, I don’t think the spirit of the group changed very much even though our membership numbers exploded.

I do want to give a special shout out to the admins of the Heughligans, Caitrionation, Tobias’s Tribe , and many, many other admins of Outlander fan groups that helped us when Richard wasn’t even part of the show! We are so proud to be in this incredible union of positive fans.

What was your most memorable fan encounter?

The Season 2 Premiere in New York City, and subsequent Tartan Parade that followed. Meeting the cast is exciting, but really what stands out is all the fans from all over the world that I was finally able to see in person. It’s such an amazing network of people you instantly feel at home with!

Brunch with members of the Rank & File. Lady Jane is 2nd from the Left.

Your fangroup is well organized, enjoyable and incredibly positive. The banter you have with Richard Rankin is cheeky & fun. It takes time to develop… how is it that you have done so well?

Thank you so much for saying that! I’m not sure how to answer this – by being myself I guess. Richard is so cheeky and fun himself. One day, he will be boasting and warning us about the #OneScotRule (to admire only him), and the next day, he will be self deprecating. Rarely is RR not teasing on Twitter. Sometimes people have a hard time figuring out when he is serious – and I admit there was at least once when even I wasn’t sure. He’s so good to his fans and it inspires us, his army!

A man that keeps you guessing…is the best kind

I would say that the RAF is equal parts serious and cheeky. We are super professional in promoting his career and all the shows he is involved in, but we also aren’t letting him get away with anything. Our followers seem to enjoy the mix. The RAF sees him as a real person – someone to admire, but also someone to treat with respect. I’m really proud of our group for that. Our primary goal is always to be a positive force, for him, and for the fans. I get the most pleasure out of this when someone tells me I brightened their day, or made them feel welcomed.

Makes ya feel all warm n fuzzy

Please share a few of your favourite exchanges with Richard – I know mine.

Gosh, there are so many. Like when he would drop Outlander references during that long dark time before his casting on December 14, 2015. We were all on edge, praying he would be named as Roger, and then he would run away while everyone had a meltdown at the slightest mention. Or tweet that he’s naked in the gym, and disappear. I don’t think I’m biased when I say he’s one of the most entertaining actors to follow on Twitter.

Many VADs will say that April Fool’s Day 2016 was one of the best days ever. I changed the profile pic of the RAF Twitter account to Loki. Less than an hour later, I was hilariously called out by RR. A day of teasing ensued.
https://twitter.com/RikRankin/status/715936029627256833

https://twitter.com/RRankinFans/status/716282105056071680

And when he complained about our Instagram, which has many more followers than he does (there are still only four photos on his).
https://twitter.com/RikRankin/status/741312895984750593
https://twitter.com/RRankinFans/status/741313458965188612
https://twitter.com/RikRankin/status/741320289397661700

Another one of my all time favorite Twitter threads was debating whether Bree was technically engaged to LJG. It went on for two days. Richard really likes to be right. Usually he is, and will defend it TO THE DEATH. Here’s a link to the Storify:
https://storify.com/RRankinFans/in-which-richard-rankin-defends-his-claim

Best banter ever

Explain what your reaction was to seeing “Roger” appear on screen for the first time was like.

I was completely overwhelmed. Having watched The Crimson Field in 2014, it was a really long wait! We all knew then that Richard was the perfect Roger Mac.

vlcsnap-2016-01-15-20h06m21s377

So much feels!

He’s such an emotionally powerful actor. The role of Roger is extremely complex, and RR was born to play it, like all the other cast members who are so perfectly cast! It was meant to be. So basically, I cried along with him during that opening scene of 213…

213opening

We all have our own visions of what Outlander of the future will look like – What do YOU see?

A ten season series with every single book represented. And multiple awards for all cast and crew, including Richard, who is going to slay season 4 … and 5! He and Sophie will be the second leads starting then, and their love story will be at the heart of the show as much as Jamie and Claire’s. Outlander will catapult Richard’s career to the next level, and give him the ability to make his dreams come true. It means that we will be guaranteed to get lots and lots of Rankin screen time to many years to come. The future is very bright indeed.

Future is so bright we need to wear shades.

My husband has said Diana must have a man named “Roger” locked in her basement *smile*. With all that is to come for his character – how will you prepare for his story line?

Haha, that’s a great description. Yes, we use the tag #PoorRoger on Twitter. He’s such a lovely character and means well, but he’s just beaten down by life time and time again. Richard said in a recent interview that Roger has an inner strength, so that is what I think he will bring to the role. I’m just so excited to see it all, and have so much faith in Richard’s abilities. I’m thrilled that he will have a chance to stretch his skills and create some epic and emotional scenes that will really touch the viewers. It’s why we are his fans – his characters have such depth and are so full of feeling. It’s the role of a lifetime, and I couldn’t be happier for him.
The fandom’s acceptance of Richard has been incredible, unprecedented really. The huge celebration when he was cast was wrought from months, and years for some, of his fans rooting for him. We are just so grateful to join the Outlander family – so beat him, hang him, do what you will – we will pay the price gladly! -Stocks up on tissues and whisky-.

This is an ABOotlander must ask –  If you were to come to Alberta Canada and someone offered you a) Moose Droppings b) Beaver Tails c) Prairie Oysters d) Taber Corn…which would you choose & why?

I’m truly afraid to answer this question! And I hope I get points for not googling the 3 out 4 that I don’t know – I’ll pick the Taber Corn because it sounds the least problematic and reminds me of Graham McTavish’s corn jokes.

mind yer

If you want to join in The Rank and File fun, here is a list of all the ways to do it!

Public FB page www.facebook.com/TheRankandFile
Private FB group www.facebook.com/groups/TheRankandFile
Twitter www.twitter.com/RRankinFans
Instagram www.instagram.com/richardrankinfans
Pinterest www.pinterest.com/TheRankandFile
Tumblr www.fuckyeahrichardrankin.tumblr.com
YouTube Channel www.youtube.com/c/RichardRankinFanHub

Thank you so much Lady Jane for being so open & sharing with the fandom.

SherryLynn

Founder of the ABOotlanders

*Stay tuned for the next #ABOotlanderLOVE feature…we dive into a new realm!

ABOotlander LOVE- Episode 2- Connie V does it her way…tickles eh?!

October 19, 2016 by Sherry W.

ABOotlander Love is all about spreading KINDNESS JOY & SUPPORT throughout the OUTLANDER Fandom, especially during #Droughtlander. In our last edition we shared Beth Wessons story with our readers.

The ABOotlander World FB Page is choosing those in the Outlander fandom who have made it their mission to add a touch of positivity & entertainment.

We are highlighting bloggers, artists, podcasters, cast or crew members who simply share parts of themselves that bring happiness to those enjoying the World of Outlander.

There is no doubt that Connie Verzak aka ConnieBV aka atom1cflea.tumblr.com is the epitome of this. Connie’s recaps are inventive, creative & not just funny – they are uproarious. If you have any bone of funny in your body…it will be tickled.

We always wonder what makes the fanciful tick, what is it that causes them to see the comical in things that others see as mundane.

This is what I adore about Connie – I feel a kinship with her…a weird, wild and witty connection. I was thrilled when she happily agreed to step into the ABOotlander LOVE spotlight.

Let’s listen to Connie’s OUTLANDER Journey.

In Connie’s real life she is a translator (we know she turns the everyday into awesome) and a proofreader. She has had a wide variety or jobs from bridal salon attendant to telemarketer. (I wouldn’t say mean things and hang up on HER!)

All of us have our “Outlander” story, how we got here… Here is Connie’s-

The first book was on display in the library shortly after it came out. I think it was under “New Historical Romance” or something similar. I picked it up, read the first few pages to see if it would be up my alley and was intrigued by the writing, so very painterly… I took it home and read it in two days. I have been waiting for the next book ever since, and the Frasers have been with me through my own ups and downs. It’s such a cliché, but it really is like looking in on old friends. (This is the cliche of our lives)

We are inspired by many different things and I was curious to know what inspired the crazy lil fleas recaps, aren’t you?

Oh, a combo of boredom and whimsy. I heard the show was coming out and I wanted to talk about my favorite scene, so I did a bit of that and then made the images to accompany it. A few folks on Tumblr knew me and liked them, and by episode 3 I had promised them full recaps, and though I couldn’t do them fast enough to keep up with the show, people seemed to enjoy them and so I kept it up. I didn’t even finish the long S1 recaps till a month or two before S2. The first time Diana shared them I almost had a heart attack. I still get such a thrill that she likes them and am so happy whenever anyone says I made them laugh.

It was so exciting to see Connie’s recap headlined with ScotlandNOW, I really wanted to know how that came about, so, I asked of course.

Well, I heard through a couple of fandom friends that they were looking for someone to recap the show, and that they had forwarded my name. I replied to the editor with a sample of my work (I either sent the “Rent” recap or the Wedding, can’t quite recall) and she had me finish out season 1. They were very short and more like reviews, since I had almost no time to work on them between airtime and deadline. People kept liking them, so we kept on. I love that I can ask her if it’s a good idea to write as a cow and she’s like “Well, let’s see it…” For S2 I have tried writing longer ones with some more analysis. At some point I’ll settle on a format, but they’ll always be humorous. I have to laugh.

…and you make us laugh with this…every…single…time!

Being an Outlander fan is such a kick in the pants, when we get to cross paths with those who started this brilliant world it can be … the best ever!

Meeting Diana Gabaldon was my biggest fangirl moment.

Such love..such admiration…so much awesome in one frame. Photo by friend Allison.

I was at a fan gathering in Iowa, and I had brought my camera to have my picture taken because I wanted a good photo, and the girl wasn’t sure how to use it and the photo was blurry, and it was very late and Diana had been signing for quite a while, so she glanced briefly at my printed recap page and then moved things along. I was SO crushed, I didn’t get to talk or anything I was so nervous. My friend Allison who I bless to this day forced me to get back in line, and tell Diana the name of my blog and when she said, “You’re Connie!” I wanted to faint. I got my picture re-taken and she hugged me and told me I was “a funny lady.” I don’t think she knows how much that means to me, but it’s a warm glow every time I think about it. Especially in winter.

There is no denying that Connie makes us guffaw, giggle, snort and chortle. I had to wonder if she ever thought “Man…that was too funny!”

It’s usually not the funniest ones in any traditional sense. For me at least it’s the ones where I jump out of bed or the shower and make something ludicrous and cackle because I can’t believe I get paid for this (please keep paying me). (In fact, give that woman a raise!) This particular one was free but I laughed myself stupid making it, hearing this cat’s voice in my head. I laughed just now seeing it. Making animals and inanimate objects talk always gets me, because I am a child. Also I love my running gags, of which I have many.

cat

Everyone has “things”…here are a few of Connie’s…I am disturbed by both marshmallows and licorice. You didn’t happen in nature. Someone made you! (She is so weird…did I mention I adore HER?)

When you are an entertaining person, you need to be entertained. I inquired as to who amuses Connie.

My husband is the funniest person alive. He’s well-read, quick and has a fine grasp of the ridiculous. I don’t like humor that makes people feel bad, or puts someone down. I like it when you laugh, and you had to think quickly to get that laugh.

The ABOotlanders must ask question for all spotlight inners. You come to Alberta Canada and someone offers you —

a) Moose Droppings b) Beaver Tails c) Prairie Oysters d) Taber Corn…which would you choose & why?

I live in the U.S. Midwest now with a proud Midwestern dude, so unless I say corn I might find the door locked when I come home. (Good choice Connie, Taber Corn is delish! Drowned in butter n salt and you have yourself a Friday night!)

Taber is a town…in Alberta…with the sweetest corn EVER!

The ABOotlanders are so grateful Connie agreed to join the ABOotlander LOVE adventure! We started with Beth Wesson’s thoughtful prose. Followed it up with Connie’s humourous peek on life…stay tuned for our next spotlight…it will be therapeutic folks!

SherryLynn

ABOotlander Founder & funmaker