Wow, it's hard to believe but summer is halfway over! School is set to start on August 14th and then we'll be in the swing of all things school.
I had intended to be more present on this blog over the summer, but I'm taking a bit of a break, too.
Other than being chauffeur mom and driving the kidlet to swim practices--the killer one starts at 5:45 across town--I've been reading voraciously!
I just started Jim Butcher's Dresden Files book #9, White Night. I have/had most of these books in paper format, but made the mistake of lending the first five out to someone I trusted.
Yeah, I never got the books back.
So, like when I collected records, and recollecting everything when the industry went to CD's, and now recollecting again on IPod or in the cloud, I'm repurchasing the entire Dresden series on my Kindle. Luckily I happened to catch the first seven books on a $0.99 cent sale in June.
Who is Harry Dresden?
He's a wizard. Chicago's only wizard in the yellow pages. Each urban fantasy book is stand alone, since Mr. Butcher does a wonderful job of weaving in the pertinent backstory when needed, but reading them in order provides an overall arc of the characters.
Reading also has made this writer realize some of the errors of her ways.
Not in a bad way, but in a "holy cow, i'm an idiot" type of way.
In fact, one of my epiphanies happened when I was reading the comics.
What? Don't you read comic strips? You should. They are probably the shortest flash fiction you'll ever read. In their one, two, or three cels they paint a picture for the reader. These stories have a beginning, middle and end told in a very concise way.
This was when I finally realized that my picture book, GO AWAY, PIPER! is actually multiple stories in one book. Oops!
I didn't continue the theme of the original story all the way through to the end. In my typical fashion, I took a right turn about 2/3 of the way through the story.
Plus it's wordy, way, way, way too wordy.
It isn't too surprising considering I was just typing my picture books on the computer. Oh, I could visualize the pages, BUT I was writing what I saw instead of letting the images do their job.
So, I bought a small journal. I counted out my 32 picture book pages and now I will see how well my story fits in that parameter. Plus, I'm going to draw/jot notes down about each page scene.
Oh, yeah, I can't draw. So we're talking stick figures and general scribbles.
I hope you are having a wonderful summer!
Later, Peeps!
Showing posts with label reading. Show all posts
Showing posts with label reading. Show all posts
7/6/14
7/12/13
Reading Ravenously
I want to thank Tara Hudson for turning my daughter into a reader. In early June, Tara came to our local SCBWI group and gave a talk about how she became an author. I bought the first book in her trilogy--Hereafter. Simply put, it's a YA ghost story.
I came home from the meeting and handed the book to my 12-year old daughter and said, "I thought you might enjoy this." Never expecting her to read it because she has never enjoyed reading the books that I enjoy--the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson books leap to mind.
She started reading it that night.
Within days, we were at the local Barnes & Noble trying to find Arise and Elegy. Only after asking a clerk for help were we able to find both books. (B & N's setup for YA is TOTALLY WHACK-A-DOODLE! Books aren't jus separated as New and old YA, but by subgenre, too. Very difficult to figure out where a book is located!)
And then, she went to a couple of camps, and stopped reading Arise.
I was slightly miffed, considering the hassle and money I spent on the two books (Elegy is hardbound). And told her three days ago, "No TV. I want you to read for an hour."
Two hours later, she was still reading.
She went to swim practice for almost two hours, came home, got in her jammies and started reading again.
We made her turn out the light at 10 PM.
The next morning, she told me she wanted to finish Arise . . . she was up reading until 2 AM.
Then she started reading Elegy . . . same thing happened . . . she kept reading and reading, and reading. Last night she was still reading at 10:30 when I went to sleep. She wanted to finish the book.
I think I might have created a reading monster.
I'm okay with that.
But that means I better finish City of Bones by Cassandra Clare, because I have a feeling the book will be swiped from my hands sometime today!
There might be another Sam's Club run this weekend to by the other books in the series. Can't beat a price of $ 8.99.
Well, I better finish reading because I still have the last 1/4 of the book to read.
Later, Peeps!
2/28/13
All Reading is Subjective
I mentioned a week or so ago that I was judging another contest. This contest was for published books. A few weeks ago, I received four books in the mail.
They were all historical romance novels.
3 were by NYT Best Selling Authors--I recognized all these authors, in fact, I'd previously read books by all three of these authors
1 author had only published 3 books--I didn't know this author
3 were single title length novels--these books are long--around 90,000 - 110,000 words
1 book was a Harlequin Historical (HQH)--75,000 words max.--Harlequin Historical series release 6 books a month.
2 stories took place in Regency England
1 story took place in Scotland, post-Battle of Culloden
1 story took place in Texas--post Civil War
2 of the NYT Best Selling author books were total duds -- and a totally forgettable waste of my time
1 NYT Best Selling book had 4 romances intertwined within one story -- WOW!
1 HQH was INCREDIBLE!
Those are a few stats about these books, but I have a few observations I want to make.
They were all historical romance novels.
3 were by NYT Best Selling Authors--I recognized all these authors, in fact, I'd previously read books by all three of these authors
1 author had only published 3 books--I didn't know this author
3 were single title length novels--these books are long--around 90,000 - 110,000 words
1 book was a Harlequin Historical (HQH)--75,000 words max.--Harlequin Historical series release 6 books a month.
2 stories took place in Regency England
1 story took place in Scotland, post-Battle of Culloden
1 story took place in Texas--post Civil War
2 of the NYT Best Selling author books were total duds -- and a totally forgettable waste of my time
1 NYT Best Selling book had 4 romances intertwined within one story -- WOW!
1 HQH was INCREDIBLE!
Those are a few stats about these books, but I have a few observations I want to make.
- Just because an author is a New York Times Best Selling author, it doesn't mean that all the author's books are excellent. It just means they sell a lot of books, which puts them on the list.
- Sometimes a longer word count doesn't mean a more exciting book. It can mean that the author dithers around about nonsense for far too many pages.
- Don't assume that if you've never heard of the author before that the book can't be good
- Don't assume that a Harlequin Series book isn't as good as a single title novel--sometimes they are better because they have to be written more tightly, which increases the pacing.
- Because I love or hate a story, it doesn't mean you will have the same reaction.
11/5/12
Computer and other updates
Computer: As you know last week I had some computer issues. The issues didn't stop when hubs replaced the mother board. After the board arrived, he did his magic in about 5 minutes and had the thing hooked up and ready to go, but when he was checking it it had some fluctuations in the readings, which made him think there was a power supply issue. And he had a few extra ones, so he hooked up one that was compatible and Voila! My computer was mine again! Though my poor netbook was chugging along quite nicely, it didn't have all the bells and whistles my regular computer does.
Along with this excellent news is that I didn't lose anything!
Contest Entries: I still have one more contest entry to judge. Another entry that I read, commented, but didn't score wasn't lost, so all I have to do is score it. Then I can dust my hands off with this contest.
Feeling better: I still don't know if I had a virus, or it was my normal allergy issues, a sinus infection, or female stuff, or what, but I've been feeling like crap for weeks--low grade headache, blah feeling, tired, not sleeping well, etc. Not bad enough to go to the doctor, but not my normal self. I'm starting to feel better and it made me think of the time many years ago when I felt like this when it turned out that I had mono. At that time, I worked in a hospital lab so all I had to do was have my blood drawn and do testing on it. Well, most of my results were normal. And then I had a brain fart that I needed to be tested for CMV (cytomegalo virus) and Mono (mononucleosis). The ladies in immunology a) laughed at me, b) said I was too old for mono, c) grudgingly performed the test. The test is very simple test. A drop of my serum is mixed with two other heterophile blood products, and clumping is a positive result. My test turned positive before the positive control. Yeah, I had mono.
I also had a flu shot last week and developed a swollen lymph node in my arm pit. It's a little less tender than it was a few days ago, but I'll keep monitoring it though I suspect it's due to the shot.
Reading: Along with making Christmas gifts, I've been trying to catch up on my reading. Last week, I read two books. The first one was my very first Piers Anthony book. Yeah, yeah, I know, I write fantasy and yet I never read one of the pioneers. My only excuse is that I'm more of an Anne McCaffary fan. Well, I read A SPELL FOR CHAMELEON. When I was reading it, I had to remember that this story was written in the 1970's when explanatory world building and introspective narration was the style. It was a good story, but I could see how it might be changed to make it more current, style-wise, that is.
The second book was Marilyn Pappano's PASSION TO DIE FOR. Wow, just wow. That about sums it up. This particular book is a Harlequin Romantic Suspense and I snagged it when HQ offered it for free a week or so ago. Normally, I don't read category romance, though I have read most of Marilyn's single title books (the Bethlehem books and her Rachel Butler books). This was a first for me. It's been a very long time since I've read category and this book was a wonderful re-introduction to the specialized genre. Though I was totally immersed in the Copper Lake story, I also paid attention to her turning points--with a Kindle, it's easier because there are no pages, just percentage to give the reader an idea of how much story is left to read--and her turning points were spot on the money of a 3-act storytelling. The interesting thing about this is that Marilyn doesn't 'follow' a guideline when writing her books, she's just a natural storyteller who knows the rhythm and pacing appropriate for the length of story. I need to write more on this topic, but I'll save it for another time.
I need to get my walk in now that the sun is rising earlier, and then after my shower, it's CANDY MAKING TIME!
Later, Peeps!
Along with this excellent news is that I didn't lose anything!
Contest Entries: I still have one more contest entry to judge. Another entry that I read, commented, but didn't score wasn't lost, so all I have to do is score it. Then I can dust my hands off with this contest.
Feeling better: I still don't know if I had a virus, or it was my normal allergy issues, a sinus infection, or female stuff, or what, but I've been feeling like crap for weeks--low grade headache, blah feeling, tired, not sleeping well, etc. Not bad enough to go to the doctor, but not my normal self. I'm starting to feel better and it made me think of the time many years ago when I felt like this when it turned out that I had mono. At that time, I worked in a hospital lab so all I had to do was have my blood drawn and do testing on it. Well, most of my results were normal. And then I had a brain fart that I needed to be tested for CMV (cytomegalo virus) and Mono (mononucleosis). The ladies in immunology a) laughed at me, b) said I was too old for mono, c) grudgingly performed the test. The test is very simple test. A drop of my serum is mixed with two other heterophile blood products, and clumping is a positive result. My test turned positive before the positive control. Yeah, I had mono.
I also had a flu shot last week and developed a swollen lymph node in my arm pit. It's a little less tender than it was a few days ago, but I'll keep monitoring it though I suspect it's due to the shot.
Reading: Along with making Christmas gifts, I've been trying to catch up on my reading. Last week, I read two books. The first one was my very first Piers Anthony book. Yeah, yeah, I know, I write fantasy and yet I never read one of the pioneers. My only excuse is that I'm more of an Anne McCaffary fan. Well, I read A SPELL FOR CHAMELEON. When I was reading it, I had to remember that this story was written in the 1970's when explanatory world building and introspective narration was the style. It was a good story, but I could see how it might be changed to make it more current, style-wise, that is.
The second book was Marilyn Pappano's PASSION TO DIE FOR. Wow, just wow. That about sums it up. This particular book is a Harlequin Romantic Suspense and I snagged it when HQ offered it for free a week or so ago. Normally, I don't read category romance, though I have read most of Marilyn's single title books (the Bethlehem books and her Rachel Butler books). This was a first for me. It's been a very long time since I've read category and this book was a wonderful re-introduction to the specialized genre. Though I was totally immersed in the Copper Lake story, I also paid attention to her turning points--with a Kindle, it's easier because there are no pages, just percentage to give the reader an idea of how much story is left to read--and her turning points were spot on the money of a 3-act storytelling. The interesting thing about this is that Marilyn doesn't 'follow' a guideline when writing her books, she's just a natural storyteller who knows the rhythm and pacing appropriate for the length of story. I need to write more on this topic, but I'll save it for another time.
I need to get my walk in now that the sun is rising earlier, and then after my shower, it's CANDY MAKING TIME!
Later, Peeps!
2/18/12
Young Readers ARE Subjective
A few days ago, one of my writerly-type friends posted a note on FB that Parent & Child magazine listed the top 100 Greatest Books for Kids, and she wondered what others thought about it. She didn't like the idea that they called it the "GREATEST" books for Kids.
And I happen to agree.
Greatest books in whose opinion? Teachers? Librarians? Editors? Parents? Because you know they didn't ask the kids! Many of those books are read by kids because their teachers/parents force them to read them.
The greatest books tag needs to be changed to Most Popular or Biggest Moneymaker or Whatever, but not greatest.
Look at the dance show that used to be called, America's Best Dancer. They changed the name to America's FAVORITE Dancer because the best dancer doesn't always win. They might be technically adept, but if they don't have much of a personality or the ability to convey the emotions of the dance, or whatever, then the voters won't vote for them.
Again, it's subjective.
Which was my comment: Even at a very young age, children are subjective readers. What one kid likes another kid doesn't.
I loved reading the Froggy books to my daughter. She listened to them, but they weren't her favorites. THE SLEEP BOOK was, and still is, one of her favorites. I bought a dragon book for her three years ago called, THE FIRE WITHIN. I loved the book, but I couldn't get her to read past the first few pages. Now, she's devouring the series.
I love Harry Potter. She refuses to read them.
I love the Percy Jackson books. She refuses to read them.
It might be a readiness and ability to read a particular book, but if a child is interested, they will read. The key as a parent is to give them the ability to CHOOSE the books they want to read. And yes, I firmly believe this subjectivity starts at a very young age.
Fantasy stories have always talked to me. I understood them, but when my brother gave me THE HOBBIT when I was 12, I wasn't ready to read that particular book. Two years later, I read THE HOBBIT and the rest of the Lord of the Rings trilogy within weeks . . . and then read them again and again.
My sister, a double Masters, teacher/librarian for 35+ years, refused to read the Harry Potter books. I still don't know if she's read them. All I know is that she hasn't read my stuff. :-P She didn't like the "abuse" Harry suffered when he lived in the cupboard under the stairs. Actually, I find comfort in small places--kind of like swaddling an infant--it conveys the feeling of security.
I think she missed a huge opportunity by her stubbornness--
because when an author writes a series of books that manages to get a WHOLE GENERATION ALL OVER THE WORLD TO START READING, then that's a really, really good thing.
God Bless, J. K. Rowling!
Anyway, the whole purpose of this blog is to let kids read what they want to read. Who cares what they read as long as they are reading . . . within reason, of course, you don't want a 10-year-old reading racy romances, do you? You do have to play the parent, yanno. And, yes, I know I have blog readers who cut their teeth on romances, but back then they didn't have quite the same level of heat. . . unless you read Rosemary Rogers, but that's another blog topic!
Reading is wonderful. I just don't want someone to tell me that because I haven't read a particular book (trust me, there are TONS of "classics" that I haven't read) it makes me less educated or well-read.
Many people read to be educated. While others feel they need to broaden their minds. While others will only read non-fiction. Or others read only classics. Or . . . (supply your reason here)
I read for enjoyment and escapism.
What do your read, and why?
And I happen to agree.
Greatest books in whose opinion? Teachers? Librarians? Editors? Parents? Because you know they didn't ask the kids! Many of those books are read by kids because their teachers/parents force them to read them.
The greatest books tag needs to be changed to Most Popular or Biggest Moneymaker or Whatever, but not greatest.
Look at the dance show that used to be called, America's Best Dancer. They changed the name to America's FAVORITE Dancer because the best dancer doesn't always win. They might be technically adept, but if they don't have much of a personality or the ability to convey the emotions of the dance, or whatever, then the voters won't vote for them.
Again, it's subjective.
Which was my comment: Even at a very young age, children are subjective readers. What one kid likes another kid doesn't.
I loved reading the Froggy books to my daughter. She listened to them, but they weren't her favorites. THE SLEEP BOOK was, and still is, one of her favorites. I bought a dragon book for her three years ago called, THE FIRE WITHIN. I loved the book, but I couldn't get her to read past the first few pages. Now, she's devouring the series.
I love Harry Potter. She refuses to read them.
I love the Percy Jackson books. She refuses to read them.
It might be a readiness and ability to read a particular book, but if a child is interested, they will read. The key as a parent is to give them the ability to CHOOSE the books they want to read. And yes, I firmly believe this subjectivity starts at a very young age.
Fantasy stories have always talked to me. I understood them, but when my brother gave me THE HOBBIT when I was 12, I wasn't ready to read that particular book. Two years later, I read THE HOBBIT and the rest of the Lord of the Rings trilogy within weeks . . . and then read them again and again.
My sister, a double Masters, teacher/librarian for 35+ years, refused to read the Harry Potter books. I still don't know if she's read them. All I know is that she hasn't read my stuff. :-P She didn't like the "abuse" Harry suffered when he lived in the cupboard under the stairs. Actually, I find comfort in small places--kind of like swaddling an infant--it conveys the feeling of security.
I think she missed a huge opportunity by her stubbornness--
because when an author writes a series of books that manages to get a WHOLE GENERATION ALL OVER THE WORLD TO START READING, then that's a really, really good thing.
God Bless, J. K. Rowling!
Anyway, the whole purpose of this blog is to let kids read what they want to read. Who cares what they read as long as they are reading . . . within reason, of course, you don't want a 10-year-old reading racy romances, do you? You do have to play the parent, yanno. And, yes, I know I have blog readers who cut their teeth on romances, but back then they didn't have quite the same level of heat. . . unless you read Rosemary Rogers, but that's another blog topic!
Reading is wonderful. I just don't want someone to tell me that because I haven't read a particular book (trust me, there are TONS of "classics" that I haven't read) it makes me less educated or well-read.
Many people read to be educated. While others feel they need to broaden their minds. While others will only read non-fiction. Or others read only classics. Or . . . (supply your reason here)
I read for enjoyment and escapism.
What do your read, and why?
12/20/10
Stop Writing, Inspire the Muse
I know many people think I'm nuts by forcing myself to go on a writing sabbatical (blogging doesn't count, of course), but a break from writing does a few of things for this writer:
1) it allows this writer time to get grounded. Life happens around the writer if we aren't careful. We delve so deep into our own little worlds and release the BALROG (no, that is NOT the code word for farting, people. Remember your Lord of the Rings--the dwarves delved too deep in Moria and released a creature worse than orcs), er, forget to live our life.
2) Reading. I'm reading many, many books, from middle grade fiction to murder mysteries and romances. It recharges my mental juices.
3) It helps get me excited about writing again.
4) It allows me to enjoy the holidays with my family.
5) this time also allows me to wrap up 2010 and think about my goals for 2011. I'll keep in mind that my goals must be adaptable to any occasion--for example, if I manage to get a contract. *fingers crossed*
6) I'm really NOT an everyday writer--blogs don't count--but it doesn't mean that I don't think about my stories. I'm always thinking about how I'm going to edit FAERIE or TROLL. Or even trying to figure out what my next blog serial or book 4 would be.
7) Time is running out and my kidlet requested a scarf and hat for Christmas. I whipped out the hat in about an hour, but the scarf will take longer. Thank goodness for Christmas specials! I can sit and crochet to my heart's content or until my hands cramp up. She knows I'm making it, so there's no need for secrets.
--on a side note:
A couple of days a week, my MIL volunteers at her church to provide after school care. Well, the topic came up that I write middle grade stories and one of her little 10-year olds wanted to read some of my stories so I edited SUGAR PLUM DISASTER for the gazillionth time and printed it out for her.
The little girl LOVED IT! She loved it so much that she made pictures of Piper (the hot pink faerie) and Kyte (my 11-year old heroine). I got so geeked out that I had my first fan! :-)
--another side note:
I actually got carded (I'm sure they're suppose to card EVERYONE) the other night at Buffalo Wild Wings. I didn't bring my wallet. Oops. I looked at her and asked if the wrinkles were enough evidence that I was over 21. *snort* She still asked me what year I was born in. Heck, I should have told her that I was three years OLDER THAN THE HUBSTER --who she didn't even card!
Guess dying my hair IS paying off. Heck, people, I'm almost 1 1/2 times 21 years old!
BTW: the 'hot' sauce for the wings--is FREAKIN' HOT!
Anyhoo, that's it for now. I'll try to blog over the next couple of weeks, but it might be sporadic.
Have a safe and healthy holidays.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Peace out!
1) it allows this writer time to get grounded. Life happens around the writer if we aren't careful. We delve so deep into our own little worlds and release the BALROG (no, that is NOT the code word for farting, people. Remember your Lord of the Rings--the dwarves delved too deep in Moria and released a creature worse than orcs), er, forget to live our life.
2) Reading. I'm reading many, many books, from middle grade fiction to murder mysteries and romances. It recharges my mental juices.
3) It helps get me excited about writing again.
4) It allows me to enjoy the holidays with my family.
5) this time also allows me to wrap up 2010 and think about my goals for 2011. I'll keep in mind that my goals must be adaptable to any occasion--for example, if I manage to get a contract. *fingers crossed*
6) I'm really NOT an everyday writer--blogs don't count--but it doesn't mean that I don't think about my stories. I'm always thinking about how I'm going to edit FAERIE or TROLL. Or even trying to figure out what my next blog serial or book 4 would be.
7) Time is running out and my kidlet requested a scarf and hat for Christmas. I whipped out the hat in about an hour, but the scarf will take longer. Thank goodness for Christmas specials! I can sit and crochet to my heart's content or until my hands cramp up. She knows I'm making it, so there's no need for secrets.
--on a side note:
A couple of days a week, my MIL volunteers at her church to provide after school care. Well, the topic came up that I write middle grade stories and one of her little 10-year olds wanted to read some of my stories so I edited SUGAR PLUM DISASTER for the gazillionth time and printed it out for her.
The little girl LOVED IT! She loved it so much that she made pictures of Piper (the hot pink faerie) and Kyte (my 11-year old heroine). I got so geeked out that I had my first fan! :-)
--another side note:
I actually got carded (I'm sure they're suppose to card EVERYONE) the other night at Buffalo Wild Wings. I didn't bring my wallet. Oops. I looked at her and asked if the wrinkles were enough evidence that I was over 21. *snort* She still asked me what year I was born in. Heck, I should have told her that I was three years OLDER THAN THE HUBSTER --who she didn't even card!
Guess dying my hair IS paying off. Heck, people, I'm almost 1 1/2 times 21 years old!
BTW: the 'hot' sauce for the wings--is FREAKIN' HOT!
Anyhoo, that's it for now. I'll try to blog over the next couple of weeks, but it might be sporadic.
Have a safe and healthy holidays.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Peace out!
12/3/10
From Reading to Candy Making
Sorry, I'm a little late today. Originally I was going to compare two authors, but I started reading another book and my thoughts about those previous authors flew out of the sieve that is my brain in December. Though I might write about it later. Okay, I'll be the first to admit that the 1992 Mary Balogh book, A CHRISTMAS PROMISE is supreme!! I bawled my eyes out, clutched the book to my chest and sighed. That's what romance writing is all about!
I decided for the good of all to take off the month of December. My poor little mind is chocked full so much extraneous information that it would be counter-productive to try to write--though I would if I had a contract deadline hanging over my head.
I don't. So I won't write.
I don't know about y'all, but I have Christmas decorating, shopping, wrapping and making candy on my mind.
Speaking of making candy. I decided what I was going to make this year--and yes, it will be less than I made the last few years. I pulled out my order slips from the previous years and checked them to see how much chocolate I need to order. I order Merkens chocolate from Country Kitchen SweetArt. Merkens chocolate is already tempered and it has a good flavor and texture. It's the best stuff out there if you ask me. The problem is that the prices have seriously increased for a pound of chocolate. In 2006, it was $2.95 per pound. In 2007-2009, it was $3.25 per pound. And this year, $3.60 per pound. *ouch*
So this year, I'm making peanut brittle, turtles and an Old English Toffee made with pecans. These I'll bag up separately and then put them in a clear Christmas bag. I had bought these bags over the years and haven't used them, so this year is the year to use up the supplies I already have.
Then comes the filled candies. Last year, I had bought the wrong sized boxes, 1/2 lb size instead of the 1 lb size. We ended up buying tins at Hobby Lobby, since it was too late to order the boxes. Oops. Which means I have 30 1/2 lb boxes sitting in the box with my candy molds. These boxes hold maybe 8 candies without crowding. Which means, I'm only making 8 filled candies . . . from a list of 18 truffle and caramel fillings that I've invented.
I immediately scrubbed my caramels. Not that I don't like caramels--I do--and I'm the Queen of having the perfect color on my caramels, but because they are a little more temperamental when filling the candies. They are a little more liquid and when I put the chocolate bottom on the candies--the chocolate is heavier and it sinks into the caramel. Temperamental.
I think I have the list of truffles that I want to make. The first four are made with white chocolate and the last four are with a milk chocolate base.
Lime Gimlet
Limoncello
Chambord
Peppermint Schnapps
Black Forest (w/kirshwasser)
Whiskey Toffee
Grand Marnier
Now, I'm having a problem figuring out my last flavor and need your help. Should I make:
Rum Raisin
Frangelico
Amaretto
Please comment and let me know which one sounds the most interesting.
Thanks!
I decided for the good of all to take off the month of December. My poor little mind is chocked full so much extraneous information that it would be counter-productive to try to write--though I would if I had a contract deadline hanging over my head.
I don't. So I won't write.
I don't know about y'all, but I have Christmas decorating, shopping, wrapping and making candy on my mind.
Speaking of making candy. I decided what I was going to make this year--and yes, it will be less than I made the last few years. I pulled out my order slips from the previous years and checked them to see how much chocolate I need to order. I order Merkens chocolate from Country Kitchen SweetArt. Merkens chocolate is already tempered and it has a good flavor and texture. It's the best stuff out there if you ask me. The problem is that the prices have seriously increased for a pound of chocolate. In 2006, it was $2.95 per pound. In 2007-2009, it was $3.25 per pound. And this year, $3.60 per pound. *ouch*
So this year, I'm making peanut brittle, turtles and an Old English Toffee made with pecans. These I'll bag up separately and then put them in a clear Christmas bag. I had bought these bags over the years and haven't used them, so this year is the year to use up the supplies I already have.
Then comes the filled candies. Last year, I had bought the wrong sized boxes, 1/2 lb size instead of the 1 lb size. We ended up buying tins at Hobby Lobby, since it was too late to order the boxes. Oops. Which means I have 30 1/2 lb boxes sitting in the box with my candy molds. These boxes hold maybe 8 candies without crowding. Which means, I'm only making 8 filled candies . . . from a list of 18 truffle and caramel fillings that I've invented.
I immediately scrubbed my caramels. Not that I don't like caramels--I do--and I'm the Queen of having the perfect color on my caramels, but because they are a little more temperamental when filling the candies. They are a little more liquid and when I put the chocolate bottom on the candies--the chocolate is heavier and it sinks into the caramel. Temperamental.
I think I have the list of truffles that I want to make. The first four are made with white chocolate and the last four are with a milk chocolate base.
Lime Gimlet
Limoncello
Chambord
Peppermint Schnapps
Black Forest (w/kirshwasser)
Whiskey Toffee
Grand Marnier
Now, I'm having a problem figuring out my last flavor and need your help. Should I make:
Rum Raisin
Frangelico
Amaretto
Please comment and let me know which one sounds the most interesting.
Thanks!
11/17/10
Got Head Cold, Need Books
My head is stuffed full of snot and I really don't feel like writing. Heck, I don't feel like doing much of anything. I don't know about y'all, but when I get a sick I just want to curl up with a good book for a few days. Christmas stories are my novels of choice this time of year. One of my goals this year was to read 50 books, I just crossed over the 40 book mark and I doubt if I'll make it, but you never know.
Here's a thought: Maybe I'll raid my daughter's stockpile of middle grade books--then I should hit the 50 book mark by the end of the year.
I've also been known to watch movie marathons for days on end. Recently, my choice has been the Harry Potter movies--gotta get ready for the Deathly Hallows, ya know. I can't wait to see the new Disney movie, Tangled either. The previews look wonderful and fun. It's twisted fairy tale, which puts it in the unique category. I mean, how many movies have hair as a character? Well, there was that Fairy Oddparents episode when Timmy Turner's hair got a mind of it's own and it started taking over the world, but that's another story.
So what movies do you want to see over the holidays?
And do you read Christmas stories during the season?
If you want to read a fun anthology then you need to pick up WOLFSBANE AND MISTLETOE, edited by Charlaine Harris (she of Sookie Stackhouse fame). the only thing these stories have in common is werewolves and Christmas. Reading an anthology of short stories or novellas is great way to discover new to you authors.
Write on! . . . not today, but later after the full moon . . .
Here's a thought: Maybe I'll raid my daughter's stockpile of middle grade books--then I should hit the 50 book mark by the end of the year.
I've also been known to watch movie marathons for days on end. Recently, my choice has been the Harry Potter movies--gotta get ready for the Deathly Hallows, ya know. I can't wait to see the new Disney movie, Tangled either. The previews look wonderful and fun. It's twisted fairy tale, which puts it in the unique category. I mean, how many movies have hair as a character? Well, there was that Fairy Oddparents episode when Timmy Turner's hair got a mind of it's own and it started taking over the world, but that's another story.
So what movies do you want to see over the holidays?
And do you read Christmas stories during the season?
If you want to read a fun anthology then you need to pick up WOLFSBANE AND MISTLETOE, edited by Charlaine Harris (she of Sookie Stackhouse fame). the only thing these stories have in common is werewolves and Christmas. Reading an anthology of short stories or novellas is great way to discover new to you authors.
Write on! . . . not today, but later after the full moon . . .
6/1/09
First 'Official' Day of Summer!
Today is the first official day of summer as Friday was the kiddo's last day of school and weekends don't count. So, of course, I wake up at four frickin' thirty in the morning, finally gave up on going back to sleep at around five-fifteen. True, I'm an early riser but six o'clock is my normal time. This was just too nuts.
Rachel has an eye appointment this morning, but so far we don't have anything else scheduled. I promised to take her to the zoo afterwards. We have a nice zoo, but it's a two hour jaunt, if that, not including drive time. I want to stop by our Air and Space Museum to check out their summer programs for kids since it's close to the zoo--one stop shopping my fave.
I did enroll her in two summer camps. She has a two week break before she starts the first one, which is a week long soccer camp at TU (Tulsa University) that features the University's soccer coaches and players teaching these kids. She did half-days last year and loved it. I'll let you know after they run her butt off during the all day camp this year whether or not she loves it.
Two weeks off and then zoo camp called Meet the Predators. Tulsa Zoo also changed their half-day camps to full day ones, which makes it easier on the parents, plus they are offering before and after camp care for the parents who need it. Last year, I took my computer and parked myself at one of the picnic tables with a handy dandy plug and wrote. It was nice overlooking the lake while I wrote about demons and evil critters.
I did look into another camp this year, it's at Phibrook Art Museum. They had a variety of topics, but the classes were half-day for two weeks and over $250--OUCH! And that was for members! The hassle and money factor might be more than the educational worth.
And during Rachel's free time when she's not at camp: dollar or free summer movies, the zoo or aquarium (both with season passes), swim lessons (we have a pool at home), 3rd grade curriculum exercises, summer reading program through the library, and I bought her a book and supplies on how to draw dragons :-). And, of course, inviting friends or her cousins over for an overnight or just a day in the pool.
I don't see us taking a big vacation this year, though we will do some weekend jaunts to Silver Dollar City and Branson. And Rach expressed an interest in fishing, so we might have to get out on the lake to hook some sunfish.
Some where in there I'll have to find time to edit my gnome story.
Write on!
Rachel has an eye appointment this morning, but so far we don't have anything else scheduled. I promised to take her to the zoo afterwards. We have a nice zoo, but it's a two hour jaunt, if that, not including drive time. I want to stop by our Air and Space Museum to check out their summer programs for kids since it's close to the zoo--one stop shopping my fave.
I did enroll her in two summer camps. She has a two week break before she starts the first one, which is a week long soccer camp at TU (Tulsa University) that features the University's soccer coaches and players teaching these kids. She did half-days last year and loved it. I'll let you know after they run her butt off during the all day camp this year whether or not she loves it.
Two weeks off and then zoo camp called Meet the Predators. Tulsa Zoo also changed their half-day camps to full day ones, which makes it easier on the parents, plus they are offering before and after camp care for the parents who need it. Last year, I took my computer and parked myself at one of the picnic tables with a handy dandy plug and wrote. It was nice overlooking the lake while I wrote about demons and evil critters.
I did look into another camp this year, it's at Phibrook Art Museum. They had a variety of topics, but the classes were half-day for two weeks and over $250--OUCH! And that was for members! The hassle and money factor might be more than the educational worth.
And during Rachel's free time when she's not at camp: dollar or free summer movies, the zoo or aquarium (both with season passes), swim lessons (we have a pool at home), 3rd grade curriculum exercises, summer reading program through the library, and I bought her a book and supplies on how to draw dragons :-). And, of course, inviting friends or her cousins over for an overnight or just a day in the pool.
I don't see us taking a big vacation this year, though we will do some weekend jaunts to Silver Dollar City and Branson. And Rach expressed an interest in fishing, so we might have to get out on the lake to hook some sunfish.
Some where in there I'll have to find time to edit my gnome story.
Write on!
5/8/09
Friday's Mish Mash
We had a few rays of sunshine yesterday! Yay! Hubster mowed the lawn while I took the kiddo to soccer practice. I used to read in the car, but the practice area is on a grassy section of a large church property, so I began to walk the property on her practice days. I can hoof it around the perimeter five times and it takes me about an hour--yeah, it's that big! They have most of it poured for a walking trail, but it stops about halfway around a pond, so I walk to the end, do a U'y and walk back. I really enjoy it when hubster can walk with me--we can really reconnect and talk about adult stuff. We also do family walks on the other nights of the week. It's great exercise and it has helped the kiddo's endurance during the soccer games.
I just checked on my afghan and it is up to $75! Yippee! Let's see if it will get to $100. Remember, it's for a good cause.
NaPiBoWriWee was an experience. No, I didn't write any picture books. :-( BUT I did write down some ideas that I can percolate over the summer. It was a good challenge, but next year I need to be prepared in advance.
I started going to town on my MG novel this week--the one I need to finish by the end of this month! I'm getting pretty excited about it. I know I'll probably have to change the POV in the first chapter (it's in the mom's POV), but I'm leaving it in right now.
I also belong to a BIAW (Book In A Week) yahoo group that Barbara does once a month. And next week is the week. I really want to crank out this story, so I can let it sit before I start my layering and revisions. In preparation to this plan, I'm going to read the first Percy Jackson and the Olympians book, a middle grade novel that has turned into a series. We are heading out of town so I plan to read in the car. Hubster hates it when I do that because I'm 'supposed' to entertain him and keep him awake---isn't that what those Monster drinks supposed to do?
Hubster read the rough draft picture book out loud the other day to the kiddo. Of course, I was listening with my eyes closed to hear all the nuances, etc, and found many places that I can cut. So I'm really happy about that. There are also a lot of places that need some serious work. Since my eyes were closed I didn't see my kiddo's reaction. Hubster said she was really interested and reading along with the story. Right off the bat, the consensus was to cut Piper's brother--whoops, he's gone! See how easy that was? :-) I need to tweak this story so I can let it sit over the weekend.
So many things to do and not enough time to do them. I also volunteered at my kiddo's school and that will eat into my writing time today, but that is partly the reason I quit working to help out with her and her class. Maybe it will make me more focused and I won't get sucked into those reality judge shows. Yes, I am addicted. But isn't acknowledging it the first step??
Write on!
I just checked on my afghan and it is up to $75! Yippee! Let's see if it will get to $100. Remember, it's for a good cause.
NaPiBoWriWee was an experience. No, I didn't write any picture books. :-( BUT I did write down some ideas that I can percolate over the summer. It was a good challenge, but next year I need to be prepared in advance.
I started going to town on my MG novel this week--the one I need to finish by the end of this month! I'm getting pretty excited about it. I know I'll probably have to change the POV in the first chapter (it's in the mom's POV), but I'm leaving it in right now.
I also belong to a BIAW (Book In A Week) yahoo group that Barbara does once a month. And next week is the week. I really want to crank out this story, so I can let it sit before I start my layering and revisions. In preparation to this plan, I'm going to read the first Percy Jackson and the Olympians book, a middle grade novel that has turned into a series. We are heading out of town so I plan to read in the car. Hubster hates it when I do that because I'm 'supposed' to entertain him and keep him awake---isn't that what those Monster drinks supposed to do?
Hubster read the rough draft picture book out loud the other day to the kiddo. Of course, I was listening with my eyes closed to hear all the nuances, etc, and found many places that I can cut. So I'm really happy about that. There are also a lot of places that need some serious work. Since my eyes were closed I didn't see my kiddo's reaction. Hubster said she was really interested and reading along with the story. Right off the bat, the consensus was to cut Piper's brother--whoops, he's gone! See how easy that was? :-) I need to tweak this story so I can let it sit over the weekend.
So many things to do and not enough time to do them. I also volunteered at my kiddo's school and that will eat into my writing time today, but that is partly the reason I quit working to help out with her and her class. Maybe it will make me more focused and I won't get sucked into those reality judge shows. Yes, I am addicted. But isn't acknowledging it the first step??
Write on!
4/28/09
Can Writers Still Enjoy Reading?
Jody asked: "Since you are a writer and are accustomed to dissecting your own work, does it affect your enjoyment of reading? Are you able to be a mere reader, or do you find yourself dissecting characters, plots, dialogue, etc etc when you read? Can you just take off your "writer" hat and enjoy?"
The short answer to this question is: Yes, we can still enjoy reading. In fact, many writers are voracious readers. If we want to stay in the game we need to read what is being published in the genre in which we are writing, but we have to take into consideration that these 'current' books were actually bought two years ago.
But I've also found that I'm less tolerant of slow pacing, characters I can't get into, dialogue that causes me to roll my eyes while reading, unrealistic setups or stupid plots. Yep, all those books get published. I used to plow through a book until the story got good, but now I don't have the time, or inclination, to waste on books that don't excite me. And this goes for debut authors as well as multi-published authors. Even big name, NYT best-selling authors write clinker books, BUT they already have a fan base and I doubt if their crappy books will effect their overall sales--unless they keep producing crappy books.
When I discover an author that I enjoy reading, I'm swept away by the story. I put on blinders, and a 'do not disturb' placket is hung around my neck. Do not try to converse with me. Do not ask me questions if you honestly expect answers. Do not expect dinner to get cooked--the phone number for Savastano's pizzeria is on the fridge. LEAVE ME ALONE!
Yep, those are the best books, and I keep them to reread over and over again. I know the hero and heroine are going to get together, or Harry Dresden will survive to be in another book--I reread for the journey, the roller coaster ride.
Does it take more to engage me now that I'm a writer. No, just a damn good story--and it doesn't have to be published. I've fallen in love with unpublished writers when I've judged their entries in a contest. If the story makes me forget I'm reading a story, then the writer has done his/her job and I'm a happy reader.
What do my writing friends think? Please chime in with your opinion!
Oh, I finally finished (it was hard!) my faerie picture book (PB)! YAY! Now, I can finish writing my middle grade novel, while the PB ages like fine Cab. :-)
Write on!
The short answer to this question is: Yes, we can still enjoy reading. In fact, many writers are voracious readers. If we want to stay in the game we need to read what is being published in the genre in which we are writing, but we have to take into consideration that these 'current' books were actually bought two years ago.
But I've also found that I'm less tolerant of slow pacing, characters I can't get into, dialogue that causes me to roll my eyes while reading, unrealistic setups or stupid plots. Yep, all those books get published. I used to plow through a book until the story got good, but now I don't have the time, or inclination, to waste on books that don't excite me. And this goes for debut authors as well as multi-published authors. Even big name, NYT best-selling authors write clinker books, BUT they already have a fan base and I doubt if their crappy books will effect their overall sales--unless they keep producing crappy books.
When I discover an author that I enjoy reading, I'm swept away by the story. I put on blinders, and a 'do not disturb' placket is hung around my neck. Do not try to converse with me. Do not ask me questions if you honestly expect answers. Do not expect dinner to get cooked--the phone number for Savastano's pizzeria is on the fridge. LEAVE ME ALONE!
Yep, those are the best books, and I keep them to reread over and over again. I know the hero and heroine are going to get together, or Harry Dresden will survive to be in another book--I reread for the journey, the roller coaster ride.
Does it take more to engage me now that I'm a writer. No, just a damn good story--and it doesn't have to be published. I've fallen in love with unpublished writers when I've judged their entries in a contest. If the story makes me forget I'm reading a story, then the writer has done his/her job and I'm a happy reader.
What do my writing friends think? Please chime in with your opinion!
Oh, I finally finished (it was hard!) my faerie picture book (PB)! YAY! Now, I can finish writing my middle grade novel, while the PB ages like fine Cab. :-)
Write on!
11/4/08
A good reading experience
I just skimmed an interesting blog (yes, skimmed, I hate reading freakin' long blog posts as it wastes too much of my time). After digesting this for a little while, I asked myself, why do I write? Who is my audience?
I'll digress a little and relate this to movies that I like watching. I LOVE, love, love action packed movies that take me along for a fun ride. I will not watch chick flicks, angsty protagonists, historical epics (except LOTR), or anything along those lines. I don't want to cry or feel like I learned something. I want to escape reality and have a good time along the way.
I write the same vein: to escape reality. I want to tell a story that is fun, action packed and full of surprises that takes me to a place I've never been before. I will never be a literary author and don't want to be, except they seem to command more of an advance that genre authors--bummer. And they tend to be picked by Oprah and book clubs to explore their 'deeper meaning'.
But give me a fun read any day of the week.
What do you like to read or write?
I'll digress a little and relate this to movies that I like watching. I LOVE, love, love action packed movies that take me along for a fun ride. I will not watch chick flicks, angsty protagonists, historical epics (except LOTR), or anything along those lines. I don't want to cry or feel like I learned something. I want to escape reality and have a good time along the way.
I write the same vein: to escape reality. I want to tell a story that is fun, action packed and full of surprises that takes me to a place I've never been before. I will never be a literary author and don't want to be, except they seem to command more of an advance that genre authors--bummer. And they tend to be picked by Oprah and book clubs to explore their 'deeper meaning'.
But give me a fun read any day of the week.
What do you like to read or write?
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