One of my writing friends has a quote at the bottom of her signature line, to paraphrase: "When life hands you lemons, then make margaritas and pass the salt." Or something like that.
Life will always hand you lemons. It's how you deal with them that shows others what you're made of.
So what is my Plan B?
Well, last August I queried Jabberwocky Sourcebooks publishing, sometime in October I received a request for my novel, GNOME (shortened for ease of relating this story), which I promptly sent. And then the waiting started. As of February 1, 2011 (yes, yesterday), I got my response, "blah, blah, blah . . . is an intriguing concept; unfortunately, it doesn' fit the needs of our publishing program at this time. . . Blah, blah, blah" This is a generic rejection. One mark in their favor is that they responded to the full in 3-4 months, whereas, many publishing houses will take six months to a year or more.
So, now what?
When I self-published Lost Leprechaun Loot, I KNEW I wanted to publish the rest of the stories that I had written. I love these stories and wanted to share them, but I had to wait until I received a response from Jabberwocky. Well, I have my response. They don't want it.
Fine. Now, I can move forward with my Plan B: to get more of Kyte's stories out there.
GNOME is the first novel involving this world--it intros characters and reveals some important characters.
FAERIE takes place about six weeks later, about two days into the new school year.
TROLL takes place over Thanksgiving. (Written, but I haven't edited it AT ALL)
TROLL 2 isn't written yet, but TROLL stopped with a serious loose end and it needs to be written, but I think my character needs to grow and learn before she's ready to tackle TROLL 2.
All these above are middle grade NOVELS running about 45-50,000 words
Halloween Monster Mix-Up takes place over Halloween BEFORE TROLL. This is a short story/chapter book @ 5000 words
Sugar Plum Disaster is a Christmas short story/chapter book
Lost Leprechaun Loot is technically last, but the first published because of the holiday timing. It is also a chapter book.
My goal is to get GNOME self published ASAP. I'd love to have it ready to coincide with the release of Gnomeo and Juliet (Feb 11), but I think anytime in February would be good timing.
Then I need to write a short story that involves one of my leprechauns getting some payback against Kyte. Easter comes to mind as a good holiday timing, but how to make leprechauns and Easter work together . . . only my warped mind will figure it out.
When everything hits the skids and your world seems to crumble, I have my Plan B.
Do you have a Plan B, too?
Later, Peeps! I have to edit and format GNOME for my new CP to take a gander at.
2/2/11
1/31/11
And so, I Move Forward . . .
I had hoped to be over the moon with my sky-rocketing sales, but alas, it isn't happening. I've checked my sales stats too many times to count only to see the same eight people who kindly bought my book.
And I love and thank EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU! Do y'all feel the love? You should because I'm giving you some serious cyber hugs and kisses . . . and none of the purchasers are family members. And if you all didn't know I have 8, yes, EIGHT, brothers and sisters and their children, many of them adults with children of their own. And did any of them support little sis, as of the writing of this blog--NOPE.
So you see how my family rolls. Supportive from the ground up . . . Yeah, right. And though you may think this is sour grapes, it isn't. This is just the same old, same old in my family.
And I did the only thing I vowed I would never do--that I'd let other's responses, or lack of, affect my view of self. So, I'm not selling my book. Well, I'm not really marketing it right now. It's a very holiday oriented story. And the last time I looked Valentines Day ALWAYS comes before St. Patrick's Day.
Leprechauns simply aren't on anyone's mind right now.
But they are on mine. I thought about LOST LEPRECHAUN LOOT all last week and I realized that my leprechauns wouldn't let Kyte Webber get the last laugh. Payback would be on their mind. I brainstormed with my peep, Laura (she of the wonderful book cover) and, though I won't use any of her suggestions, she did get my sluggish brain juices flowing.
"I know what we're going to do today, Ferb."
Yes, peeps, I've been researching. Nasty word, but it does help ordering one's mythical characters. And I have three chapter books to write. Each leprechaun from LLL will be featured in his own payback story.
Do I have any idea what the stories are?
Uh, I have NO FREAKIN' CLUE! But I'll start writing tomorrow.
Until later, Peeps!
And do a sista a favor and pass LLL's purchasing link (upper right hand corner of this blog) if you liked the story or if you think another person might enjoy it. 'cause God knows my family doesn't give a darn. And this is pretty much par for the course with my family, so it isn't as hurtful as it would have been in the past.
Thanks.
And I love and thank EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YOU! Do y'all feel the love? You should because I'm giving you some serious cyber hugs and kisses . . . and none of the purchasers are family members. And if you all didn't know I have 8, yes, EIGHT, brothers and sisters and their children, many of them adults with children of their own. And did any of them support little sis, as of the writing of this blog--NOPE.
So you see how my family rolls. Supportive from the ground up . . . Yeah, right. And though you may think this is sour grapes, it isn't. This is just the same old, same old in my family.
And I did the only thing I vowed I would never do--that I'd let other's responses, or lack of, affect my view of self. So, I'm not selling my book. Well, I'm not really marketing it right now. It's a very holiday oriented story. And the last time I looked Valentines Day ALWAYS comes before St. Patrick's Day.
Leprechauns simply aren't on anyone's mind right now.
But they are on mine. I thought about LOST LEPRECHAUN LOOT all last week and I realized that my leprechauns wouldn't let Kyte Webber get the last laugh. Payback would be on their mind. I brainstormed with my peep, Laura (she of the wonderful book cover) and, though I won't use any of her suggestions, she did get my sluggish brain juices flowing.
"I know what we're going to do today, Ferb."
Yes, peeps, I've been researching. Nasty word, but it does help ordering one's mythical characters. And I have three chapter books to write. Each leprechaun from LLL will be featured in his own payback story.
Do I have any idea what the stories are?
Uh, I have NO FREAKIN' CLUE! But I'll start writing tomorrow.
Until later, Peeps!
And do a sista a favor and pass LLL's purchasing link (upper right hand corner of this blog) if you liked the story or if you think another person might enjoy it. 'cause God knows my family doesn't give a darn. And this is pretty much par for the course with my family, so it isn't as hurtful as it would have been in the past.
Thanks.
1/28/11
1910 Rose Hill School
I will preface this blog by saying that I really didn't want to go on this field trip. The idea of attending a day in the life of a school kid in 1910 was low on the list of 100 things I need to do before I die.
I was pleasantly surprised.
Rose Hill is in Perry, Oklahoma, about 1.5 hours to the west of Tulsa.
The trip was to start at 7:10. All the kids got there in time. They were all dressed in the attire of the time. Well, actually a littler earlier than 1910, but who's really checking. Some of the kids had serious outfits, while others (my kid) had to make do with what was in their closets. They all carried lunch baskets or pails, and all of them quilted a square of fabric to cover their food.
The bus was late. But not by too much. All of us clambered on board and settled in our seats, only to have the driver announce she didn't know where she was going. Uh-oh, this doesn't bode well. All of us adults(3), but not the driver, were madly looking for directions. We found them and were on our way. Time-wise, we got there before 9, so all is good as class didn't start until 10 AM, which allowed plenty of time to peruse the small museum and for the kids to hand over money to the gift shoppe ladies.
Then it was time to cross the 'bridge of time' to 1910.
Let me pause at this point to say Miss Rupp, the schoolmarm, didn't put up with any guff. The girls lined up and seated according to height, and then the boys. After the Pledge of Allegiance, it was time to practice our handwriting with a pen and nib. And yes, I said 'we'. There was one seat left. Mrs. Eddy had done it before, so it was up to Mrs. Lee or myself. It was decided when the schoolmarm said she would be grading our writing on a higher scale than the kids. Mrs. Lee frantically waved for me to participate.
I did. It's harder than it looks.
Class continued with orthographyy (spelling) and arithmetic.
And then lunch! My daughter was assigned to get water with a boy. We all washed up and ate our possibly contaminated food at our desks.
At recess, the kids tried the Flying Jenny.
Geography and the spelling bee were after lunch. Two boys co-won the contest, surprising the schoolmarm. And then it was the obligatory $10 picture time. I refused to pay for it, so I started taking pictures.
Now, this was AFTER Mrs. Eddy informed me that no one was supposed to take the class pictures EXCEPT the schoolmarm . . . oops. NOT.
It wasn't until I started using Mrs. Eddy's camera did I get reprimanded. Her camera bings when a picture is taken, so I was caught, she gritted out that we were NOT supposed to take pictures. I responded, "I'm sorry, Ma'am, I didn't know." lying through my teeth the entire time. :-)
Then it was time to take the bus home. And in those 4.5 hours when we were in 1910, did the bus driver inquire about directions home?
NO!
During the trip home, it turns out 16 of the 25 kids brought their Nintendo DS and they were playing Pictochat. We arrived back at school 20 minutes before school let out.
All in all, it was a good day. I really enjoyed the experience. And most of all, the kids were pretty good.
And that was how I spent last Wednesday.
Later, Peeps!
I was pleasantly surprised.
Rose Hill is in Perry, Oklahoma, about 1.5 hours to the west of Tulsa.
 |
| L-R: Rachel (my kid), Mrs. Eddy (4th grade teacher), Grace (BFF) |
The bus was late. But not by too much. All of us clambered on board and settled in our seats, only to have the driver announce she didn't know where she was going. Uh-oh, this doesn't bode well. All of us adults(3), but not the driver, were madly looking for directions. We found them and were on our way. Time-wise, we got there before 9, so all is good as class didn't start until 10 AM, which allowed plenty of time to peruse the small museum and for the kids to hand over money to the gift shoppe ladies.
 |
| Bridge of Time back to 1910 |
 |
| Miss Rupp instructing |
 |
| Me with pen and nib |
Class continued with orthographyy (spelling) and arithmetic.
 |
| My kid paying attention |
 |
| The Flying Jenny |
Geography and the spelling bee were after lunch. Two boys co-won the contest, surprising the schoolmarm. And then it was the obligatory $10 picture time. I refused to pay for it, so I started taking pictures.
Now, this was AFTER Mrs. Eddy informed me that no one was supposed to take the class pictures EXCEPT the schoolmarm . . . oops. NOT.
 |
| The 4th grade class of 1910 |
Then it was time to take the bus home. And in those 4.5 hours when we were in 1910, did the bus driver inquire about directions home?
NO!
During the trip home, it turns out 16 of the 25 kids brought their Nintendo DS and they were playing Pictochat. We arrived back at school 20 minutes before school let out.
All in all, it was a good day. I really enjoyed the experience. And most of all, the kids were pretty good.
And that was how I spent last Wednesday.
Later, Peeps!
1/26/11
Time Management and your Goals by Dale Mayer
I've virtually known Dale for quite a few years as we both belong to one of the best goals groups ever! I've always been impressed with Dale's ability to crank out the words, but this year I've been astounded with her output. In addition to writing non-fiction and fiction, Dale has managed to find herself as one of the final four in RT's Writing with the Stars contest. Check it out. So without further ado . . . *drum roll* Dale Mayer.
Thanks to Margaret for inviting me to her blog today. Last year I ventured into her special field of candy maker and make some decent ones myself with my son for our own Christmas. So when I asked about topics to blog on she said she’d like to know how I managed to write so many stories last year along with my nonfiction writing for clients. Awhile back, I wrote on time management for a friend of mine Cindy Carroll and with a few tweaks, here’s my tidbits of wisdom on getting the job done.
As a prolific writer, who also works full time as a freelance writer, and is a single mother of four, the most common question for me is – How? How do you manage to get it all done?
The answer is really simple – but getting to the point of being able to say it - isn’t. The answer is – I get it done because I have to.
Simple huh? The thing is coming to understand that life is all about priorities and you have to set your life into an order. Sure that order will shift from time to time, but the basis of your everyday life is going to be defined by the things you hold dear. Up at the top, behind my kids (lol) is my writing. My goal is to write fiction full time. In order to do that I have to produce saleable works now. That’s hard when I have a full life so I HAVE to fit it in. That’s not an option if in a couple of years I expect to be living my dream. So how do I fit it in, you ask?
Over time, I have found we waste more time than we utilize effective. So the first trick is to find the areas where time slips by you. The obvious culprits are email, surfing on the Internet. As my life revolves around writing I will mention other areas where I have found time to write more – you can utilize these time slots for anything!
· Texting and time spent on phone calls
· Coffee time when you do nothing but could be putting down notes for your next scenes
· Lunchtime at work. Did you know how easy it is to write five hundred words in twenty minutes? If you don’t, you should check out Write or Die by Dr. Wicked. This software can be used online or there is a desktop version to download.
· Many people sit down after dinner and turn on the television. Instead of turning it on right away, use it as a reward after writing 1,000 words?
· Sneak bits of time away. If you have appointments take a notebook with you.
· If you have a busy family, take a time out for thirty minutes in your room. Let everyone know this is your time and expect to have the same respect for your needs as you do for theirs
· Get up a little early and have a half hour to yourself and your goals in the morning
· Another trick is to take that half hour to yourself in the evening.
I taught myself to write in front of the television while it was blaring, to write while the kids are doing homework beside me and to write in snippets. A fifteen minute break is 500 words. I can get three or four of those in throughout a day.
The biggest trick to getting more accomplished in a day is to be HONEST about what you really want to do. In the case of writing – do you want to write a book – or do you want to be of those people who HAVE written a book?
Getting from one point to the next is all about time management and being organized.
1. Make a list of where you waste time.
2. Then make a list of new opportunities of when you might recoup a few minutes of time.
3. Then be deadly honest here – make a list of what you want to accomplish. And be realistic about this list.
4. Then make a list of the baby steps you can do THAT day to start accomplishing these goals.
Specific to my writing, I find I have to keep my projects themselves organized. I’m either writing or revising and often have more than one on the go at a time. I having a system (yup it’s a work in progress) and have blogged about my Project Organization for juggling multiple works. Scroll down the page slightly.
I find that by having a visual list to mark off each accomplishment, there is a real sense of satisfaction at the end of the day. I sleep well and I get up the next day wanting to get back at it. We’re all different. Finding out what works for you is what’s important.
How do you get things done in your day? Is it a mad scramble just before bedtime? Do you work better under pressure, or do you like to have spare time between you and deadlines? Are you happy with your system or are you always feeling pressure because you’re ‘behind.’
Dale Mayerwww.dalemayer.comKensington Brava / RT Book Reviews Contest - Writing with the Stars Finalist – Round 4 and counting!
Dale can be found on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/dalemayer or you can follow her on Facebook.
1/24/11
To Self-pub or NOT to Self-Pub
that is the real question, isn't it?
For years, self-published writers got a bad rap (and many of them deserved it), but the publishing world is changing. BUT I don't think someone who is a new writer should immediately self-publish.
Why?
Because they aren't ready and, more importantly, their work isn't ready. (Of course there are always exceptions to broad statements like this one)
Just because you write a book it doesn't mean everyone in the world should see it. So many first books are dreck. If they aren't dreck, then they've been overworked, critted to death, or simply in need of a single shot blowing it into shreds. So many writers need to write hundreds of thousands of words to even get a clue who they are as a writer. One book ain't gonna do it.
Personally, I have four 90-100 K word novels and 10 picture books sitting under the proverbial bed, AKA the hard drive. And this isn't including my current middle grade stuff. It is a rare writer who can write something that is publishable first time around. It takes time and many, many words to hone your craft, find your writing voice and style, and TO LEARN THE BUSINESS OF PUBLISHING.
Way too many writers are just so anxious to see their name in print or to say they're a published author that they forget there is more to this business than simply writing a story. There is also something to be said for having a pile of rejections in your files.
Why?
It allows you time to develop a T-rex thick skin. Rejection happens get used to it. Instead of agents and editors rejecting your stuff, it's bad reviews, trollish comments, or whatever.
Another key to self-publishing is to get as many books out there in a reasonable time frame. If someone likes your story, then they want to buy another story. HAVE THAT NEXT STORY READY.
How long did it take you to write your first story? One year? Five years? How long will it take for you to write the second story?
My first story took over two years to write. The second one took about eight months. Some of the middle grade stuff doesn't take as long to write, but it does take time.
So to that end, I must go and work on my next Kyte Webber story: She might have won the battle in LOST LEPRECHAUN LOOT, it doesn't mean the leprechauns aren't contemplating revenge. . .
Later, Peeps
Due to my own stupid incompetence , Lost Leprechaun Loot, has been delayed going up on Kindle. And yes, I was severely reprimanded by my writing friend, Edie Ramer. Let's just say that it was up, but I managed to give myself a double last name. So as soon as I was able, I took it down to fix my errors, delaying its release.
For years, self-published writers got a bad rap (and many of them deserved it), but the publishing world is changing. BUT I don't think someone who is a new writer should immediately self-publish.
Why?
Because they aren't ready and, more importantly, their work isn't ready. (Of course there are always exceptions to broad statements like this one)
Just because you write a book it doesn't mean everyone in the world should see it. So many first books are dreck. If they aren't dreck, then they've been overworked, critted to death, or simply in need of a single shot blowing it into shreds. So many writers need to write hundreds of thousands of words to even get a clue who they are as a writer. One book ain't gonna do it.
Personally, I have four 90-100 K word novels and 10 picture books sitting under the proverbial bed, AKA the hard drive. And this isn't including my current middle grade stuff. It is a rare writer who can write something that is publishable first time around. It takes time and many, many words to hone your craft, find your writing voice and style, and TO LEARN THE BUSINESS OF PUBLISHING.
Way too many writers are just so anxious to see their name in print or to say they're a published author that they forget there is more to this business than simply writing a story. There is also something to be said for having a pile of rejections in your files.
Why?
It allows you time to develop a T-rex thick skin. Rejection happens get used to it. Instead of agents and editors rejecting your stuff, it's bad reviews, trollish comments, or whatever.
Another key to self-publishing is to get as many books out there in a reasonable time frame. If someone likes your story, then they want to buy another story. HAVE THAT NEXT STORY READY.
How long did it take you to write your first story? One year? Five years? How long will it take for you to write the second story?
My first story took over two years to write. The second one took about eight months. Some of the middle grade stuff doesn't take as long to write, but it does take time.
So to that end, I must go and work on my next Kyte Webber story: She might have won the battle in LOST LEPRECHAUN LOOT, it doesn't mean the leprechauns aren't contemplating revenge. . .
Later, Peeps
Due to my own stupid incompetence , Lost Leprechaun Loot, has been delayed going up on Kindle. And yes, I was severely reprimanded by my writing friend, Edie Ramer. Let's just say that it was up, but I managed to give myself a double last name. So as soon as I was able, I took it down to fix my errors, delaying its release.
1/21/11
Taking a Leprechaun Leap
Well, I did it.
I made a foray into the world of self-publishing. Yes, it made my brain hurt trying figure out all the stupid little formating things that I had to to and reading all the fine print of the contracts. I don't even want to think how much my head would have hurt trying to clean up a full novel--ugh! All I had was a simple 5500 word chapter book story, or short story, which wouldn't have seen the light of day any other way, I might add!
Anyhoo, I want to thank all the people who helped me along the way. I'll blog about my story when it becomes available. Right now, it's in the hands of Amazon and Smashwords for them to do their 'magic'.
But I have to give Laura Morrigan a shoutout for my incredible cover:
I made a foray into the world of self-publishing. Yes, it made my brain hurt trying figure out all the stupid little formating things that I had to to and reading all the fine print of the contracts. I don't even want to think how much my head would have hurt trying to clean up a full novel--ugh! All I had was a simple 5500 word chapter book story, or short story, which wouldn't have seen the light of day any other way, I might add!
Anyhoo, I want to thank all the people who helped me along the way. I'll blog about my story when it becomes available. Right now, it's in the hands of Amazon and Smashwords for them to do their 'magic'.
But I have to give Laura Morrigan a shoutout for my incredible cover:
Don't you just LOVE the dragon's eyes! I know I do.
Later, Peeps!
1/19/11
Down in the Dregs
No, I'm not depressed--the opposite in fact. This is the title of the story I wrote for Writer's Digest's January contest. Out of a thousand entries, they chose five finalists. And no, I wasn't one of the five. The picture is the prompt, with a maximum of 750 words. *adult language has been edited out* Tell me what you think (it's NOT my normal style).
Down in the Dregs
Fog rolled in, blotting out the watery sun. Wispy tendrils of vapor reached out, entwining trees within its grasp before obliterating them from sight as they became mere shadows of their former selves. A sudden chill of foreboding ripped through me. For a second, I paused my rhythmic movements. But with a shiver, I shook off the damp coldness as I continued rowing the small boat to the center of the lake. I wouldn’t care about the temperature for much longer.
Death was the ultimate cold.
Suicide wasn’t something to take lightly. In fact, I wouldn’t have thought of it at all if only one or two bad things happened. Heck, I bet I could have handled three disasters at one time. But six? It was too much.
I couldn’t fake it any longer.
Last night had been my final hurrah. None of my buddies suspected a thing. They were all about getting high, drunk or a piece of xxx. I played them like I’ve been playing everyone for the last month. After I dropped them off, I drove my car as far as I could until I was running on fumes, ending up on the far end of a small lake. A boat was all I needed, and it appeared that providence was on my side.
When I reached the middle of the lake, I tossed the oars inside the boat. My fingers were numb as I reached into my coat pocket and pulled out a bottle of pills. Guys weren’t supposed to take the easy way out, but I’d rather my mom didn’t see my brains splatted on the interior of the car. Pills won out over carbon monoxide, since there wasn’t any gas left in the tank.
I stared at the bottle for a second before I opened the lid and poured the pill cocktail into my hand. As I stared at my palm full of drugs, I realized that I had forgotten one small thing.
Water.
True, I was surrounded by the stuff, but it was lake water full of fish shit, dead creatures and pollution. With the way my luck was running, I’d probably catch some weird xxx disease like hepatitis, AIDS or leprosy.
Then I remembered I was trying to kill myself. What the xxxx did I care?
The boat rode low as I cupped my hand and leaned over the side. I filled it and tossed down four pills at a time. At this rate, I wouldn’t be dead until next Christmas. I tossed the last six pills into my mouth and leaned over the edge, shoving my face in the cold lake to swallow them.
Something bumped the boat. My eyes popped open as the theme from JAWS echoed in my mind. Out of the corner of my eye, I could have sworn I saw a woman’s face with hair the color of moonlight. I jerked my head out of the water. The xxxx pills must be starting to take effect. Hell if I knew what xxxx pills I swallowed. All I asked for was something to kill the pain. All the dealer wanted was crisp hundreds. We both got what we needed.
The boat rocked again. My xxx slipped off the bench seat and onto the bottom of the boat. I giggled like a chick. Focusing on anything was taking too much effort, so I closed my eyes. The boat tilted wildly to the side. I grabbed onto the bench seat afraid that it was going to capsize.
A pair of hands clenched the boat. Focusing was difficult, even blinking hard to clear my eyes didn’t help. A head rose over the boat’s side as the creature flung its head back. Water and hair arced over her head as I was caught in the spray.
I was losing it now. Hallucinations were coming hard and fast. A chick, mermaid, mer-chick . . . whatever . . . pulled herself into the boat. I lay there, unable to move. My chest heaved. All I could do was watch. She tried talking to me, but I couldn’t hear any longer.
Darkness descended.
The sun warmed my face. I felt like xxxx. Hurt like a couple of thugs had beaten me with a two-by-four. Something wiggled by my side.
She was there.
1/17/11
Contests, Bogus Contests, and Fun Links
A lot of stuff is going on in my head right now--no, the 'voices' aren't telling me to do bad things--it's more to the point of me taking control of my career. For the past mumble, mumble years, I have been trying to attract the interest of an agent or editor for my stories.
Uh, not much luck there.
Though GNOME is out withtwo publishers one publisher (just got an 'R' last night) and one agent, I'm not holding my breath. And reading numerous blogs by J.A. Konrath and Dean Wesley Smith, I decided to take a step toward self-publishing . . . a small step. This week I'm going to be studying up on Smashwords and how to self-publish my short story, LOST LEPRECHAUN LOOT. Now, I don't expect to make a lot of money, but I didn't set out writing to make a lot of money--the side effect would be nice, but I'm realistic here (Okay, it would be nice to make enough to pay for vacation. See, I'm not asking for much!). I want to share my stories with youngsters who enjoy being transported to another place, to a place where gnomes, faeries, and dragons exist.
The only way that I can accomplish that is to do it on my own. Publishing is changing. And if writers let publishers and agents call the shots, we are giving our power away. I'm tired of giving my power to another's whim and bias. There are numerous writers who self-pub too soon. I feel that my writing is ready, my stories are ready, and most of all, I AM READY.
Contests:
Secret Agent contest: There's a VERY narrow window of time to enter this contest. READ the rules and don't enter unless you have a finished story!
http://misssnarksfirstvictim.blogspot.com/2011/01/january-secret-agent-eary-info.html
Writer's Digest monthly contest. Deadline Feb. 10
http://www.writersdigest.com/YourStory
NPR 3 minute short story contest. Deadline Jan 23
http://www.npr.org/2011/01/08/132744031/three-minute-fiction-round-6-laughing-and-crying
A link to a list of contests: *WARNING* Do you own research. Be wary of PAYING to enter a contest.
http://www.manuscriptediting.com/contests.htm
Bogus contest: *WARNING* This contest will take your money and all rights to your story, see #13
http://ht.ly/3EazK
Fun links:
Liturature map: put the name of your favorite author in the blank and click enter. The site will 'discover' new authors that are similar to your interests.
http://www.literature-map.com/
Gender Genie: Ever wonder if you write like a girl or a guy. Or are you writing in a male character's POV and wonder if you 'nailed' the guy voice? Check this link out.
http://bookblog.net/gender/genie.php
Thousands of Names: Sometimes it's hard to come up with a name for your character's. Try this link.
http://www.lowchensaustralia.com/Names.htm
Dr. Wicked write or Die: (desktop editon button on right) Having a hard time focusing and just writing? Depending how evil you make it, this site will start deleting your words if you don't write fast enough!
http://writeordie.com/
Uh, not much luck there.
Though GNOME is out with
The only way that I can accomplish that is to do it on my own. Publishing is changing. And if writers let publishers and agents call the shots, we are giving our power away. I'm tired of giving my power to another's whim and bias. There are numerous writers who self-pub too soon. I feel that my writing is ready, my stories are ready, and most of all, I AM READY.
Contests:
Secret Agent contest: There's a VERY narrow window of time to enter this contest. READ the rules and don't enter unless you have a finished story!
http://misssnarksfirstvictim.blogspot.com/2011/01/january-secret-agent-eary-info.html
Writer's Digest monthly contest. Deadline Feb. 10
http://www.writersdigest.com/YourStory
NPR 3 minute short story contest. Deadline Jan 23
http://www.npr.org/2011/01/08/132744031/three-minute-fiction-round-6-laughing-and-crying
A link to a list of contests: *WARNING* Do you own research. Be wary of PAYING to enter a contest.
http://www.manuscriptediting.com/contests.htm
Bogus contest: *WARNING* This contest will take your money and all rights to your story, see #13
http://ht.ly/3EazK
Fun links:
Liturature map: put the name of your favorite author in the blank and click enter. The site will 'discover' new authors that are similar to your interests.
http://www.literature-map.com/
Gender Genie: Ever wonder if you write like a girl or a guy. Or are you writing in a male character's POV and wonder if you 'nailed' the guy voice? Check this link out.
http://bookblog.net/gender/genie.php
Thousands of Names: Sometimes it's hard to come up with a name for your character's. Try this link.
http://www.lowchensaustralia.com/Names.htm
Dr. Wicked write or Die: (desktop editon button on right) Having a hard time focusing and just writing? Depending how evil you make it, this site will start deleting your words if you don't write fast enough!
http://writeordie.com/
1/14/11
Character Too Old for Middle Grade?
I had an inkling of suspicion about this topic in December, but I have since had it confirmed by a generous agent who actually rejected my story and gave me a little feedback.
A RARITY, I MIGHT ADD, WHICH MAKES THIS AGENT A GEM IN MY BOOKS!
I've mentioned it before but I'll repeat myself just this once. Agents tend to get HUNDREDS of queries on any given week. Many agents close their doors to queries for months at a time. Other agents will only accept snail mail queries to keep their piles at a minimum. While the majority of agents have gone along with the mantra that 'NO RESPONSE MEANS NO'.
--for the most part, I've realized that this is becoming the norm, though I wish the agents who do this would have an auto response letting the author know this information, otherwise, the author might keep querying the agent because they suspect their query got lost in spam-land. *spam, spam, spam* *sing along with me* *spam, spam, spam, spam*
When I received this rejection--a one day turnaround, I might add. Trust me, this is better than no response!--the agent actually liked the premise the story, but couldn't connect with my character because she sounded too old.
Okay, I get this. In fact, this was my very fear with my middle grade stories.
When I switched to writing MG I had a few people read my stories, but those critters were romance writers or essayists, they weren't children's writers or even readers of MG. I belonged to SCBWI, but never connected with the local group, so for the most part I've been on my own.
No, even my own kid doesn't really read my stories. She's read my short stories, but has never read my novel length ones. She's not really into the same fantasy stuff that I am.
So I turned to my kidlet's teacher last month. Mrs. E teaches 4th grade and deals with 9 and 10 year olds on a daily basis. My character is 11, almost 12. When I gave SUGAR PLUM DISASTER to Mrs. E to read, I knew some 4th graders were reading way above the norm {(as in TWILIGHT) and no, I don't think it's an appropriate story for that age, but that's the parent's responsibility to deal with not mine.}while others are still working their way through the Magic Treehouse stories.
This is a vast range of reading abilities for this age group. Mrs. E hasn't had a chance to get back to me yet--the life of a teacher, especially a teacher with her own kids, is never quiet--but I suspect her response will be similar to the agents.
As for characters in MG stories, well, they run the gamut, too. The reader grows up with Harry Potter, and I love how JKR dealt with the teenage angst without it overpowering the story. We grow up with Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and John Flanagan's Ranger's Apprentice, but there are older protagonists in MG. THE FIRE WITHIN (The Last Dragon Chronicles) by Chris D'Lacey involves a college age protagonist. Many of the classics are sold as middle grade novels whether or not the protagonist is 9-12. Or you have the animal protagonists, GUARDIANS of GA'HOOLE.
But the real question remains, will I still write my character the same way? Or will I try to present her as older?
Actually, I think I'll keep my character like she is. Oh, I might tweak her words and thoughts some, but I like the idea of my character growing up within a series. I don't want her to be much older since I'm not ready to deal with the teenage angst issues.
I'll just wait a few years when I have to deal with them for real with my own child, and then I'll slip it into the books.
Later, Peeps!
A RARITY, I MIGHT ADD, WHICH MAKES THIS AGENT A GEM IN MY BOOKS!
I've mentioned it before but I'll repeat myself just this once. Agents tend to get HUNDREDS of queries on any given week. Many agents close their doors to queries for months at a time. Other agents will only accept snail mail queries to keep their piles at a minimum. While the majority of agents have gone along with the mantra that 'NO RESPONSE MEANS NO'.
--for the most part, I've realized that this is becoming the norm, though I wish the agents who do this would have an auto response letting the author know this information, otherwise, the author might keep querying the agent because they suspect their query got lost in spam-land. *spam, spam, spam* *sing along with me* *spam, spam, spam, spam*
When I received this rejection--a one day turnaround, I might add. Trust me, this is better than no response!--the agent actually liked the premise the story, but couldn't connect with my character because she sounded too old.
Okay, I get this. In fact, this was my very fear with my middle grade stories.
When I switched to writing MG I had a few people read my stories, but those critters were romance writers or essayists, they weren't children's writers or even readers of MG. I belonged to SCBWI, but never connected with the local group, so for the most part I've been on my own.
No, even my own kid doesn't really read my stories. She's read my short stories, but has never read my novel length ones. She's not really into the same fantasy stuff that I am.
So I turned to my kidlet's teacher last month. Mrs. E teaches 4th grade and deals with 9 and 10 year olds on a daily basis. My character is 11, almost 12. When I gave SUGAR PLUM DISASTER to Mrs. E to read, I knew some 4th graders were reading way above the norm {(as in TWILIGHT) and no, I don't think it's an appropriate story for that age, but that's the parent's responsibility to deal with not mine.}while others are still working their way through the Magic Treehouse stories.
This is a vast range of reading abilities for this age group. Mrs. E hasn't had a chance to get back to me yet--the life of a teacher, especially a teacher with her own kids, is never quiet--but I suspect her response will be similar to the agents.
As for characters in MG stories, well, they run the gamut, too. The reader grows up with Harry Potter, and I love how JKR dealt with the teenage angst without it overpowering the story. We grow up with Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and John Flanagan's Ranger's Apprentice, but there are older protagonists in MG. THE FIRE WITHIN (The Last Dragon Chronicles) by Chris D'Lacey involves a college age protagonist. Many of the classics are sold as middle grade novels whether or not the protagonist is 9-12. Or you have the animal protagonists, GUARDIANS of GA'HOOLE.
But the real question remains, will I still write my character the same way? Or will I try to present her as older?
Actually, I think I'll keep my character like she is. Oh, I might tweak her words and thoughts some, but I like the idea of my character growing up within a series. I don't want her to be much older since I'm not ready to deal with the teenage angst issues.
I'll just wait a few years when I have to deal with them for real with my own child, and then I'll slip it into the books.
Later, Peeps!
1/12/11
Put a little zip in your life--Bourbon Balls
Short and sweet today. Literally.
I'm feeling a bit under the weather: headache that soon developed into something else. Actually, it started yesterday and I still feel lousy. Today, I'll simply read or crochet and watch movies.
But I don't want this to be a downer day, so here's a recipe:
Bourbon Balls
6 oz. Chocolate chips
3 T. Karo light syrup
1/4 c. Bourbon whiskey
1/2 c. sugar
1 1/4 c crushed vanilla wafers
1 c. finely chopped pecans
Melt chocolate. Blend in syrup and bourbon. Stir in rest of ingredients. Roll mixture into bite-sized balls. Coat in chocolate sprinkles, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or ground pecans. Cover and chill until firm.
REMEMBER: The alcohol is NOT cooked out. This is NOT an appropriate treat for children.
Hopefully, I'll have something better for Friday!
I'm feeling a bit under the weather: headache that soon developed into something else. Actually, it started yesterday and I still feel lousy. Today, I'll simply read or crochet and watch movies.
But I don't want this to be a downer day, so here's a recipe:
Bourbon Balls
6 oz. Chocolate chips
3 T. Karo light syrup
1/4 c. Bourbon whiskey
1/2 c. sugar
1 1/4 c crushed vanilla wafers
1 c. finely chopped pecans
Melt chocolate. Blend in syrup and bourbon. Stir in rest of ingredients. Roll mixture into bite-sized balls. Coat in chocolate sprinkles, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or ground pecans. Cover and chill until firm.
REMEMBER: The alcohol is NOT cooked out. This is NOT an appropriate treat for children.
Hopefully, I'll have something better for Friday!
1/10/11
Polar Bear Poop . . . the recipe
I promised Lissa a recipe for Polar Bear Poop. And I will post it at the end of this blog. But first I will mention that you DO NOT WANT TO GOOGLE polar bear poop, otherwise you will get this:
--Do not take a sip of coffee! Oh, heck, why not? I don't have to clean your monitor--you do! Oops! Was my warning too late?
Okay, that was fun, wasn't it? :-) This was my very first video upload, too! What a great way to start off the week with a bang!
Anyhoo, back to the topic of this blog.
Every Christmas, one of my husband's employees makes these cookie/candy concoctions that she calls, Polar Bear Poop. They are coated in white almond bark with a chocolate melt-in-your-mouth center--DELICIOUS! But she is very secretive about her recipe. One day about a month ago, I was trolling through my Farmville gifties (giving and receiving) and a small ad with a picture flashes on the sidebar.
It looked like Polar Bear Poop, but it had some boring name like, "OREO COOKIE BALLS". Puh-leese! Couldn't they come up with something better?? Heck, I like Jody's 'Faerie Farts' better than this!
Here's the recipe for . . . POLAR BEAR POOP
1-18 oz. pkg Oreo cookies
1-8 oz. pkg cream cheese--room temperature
White chocolateAlmond bark (@ 4 oz)
Process Oreos in food processor until fine (wet sandy texture). Add cream cheese to crumbs and blend until dough-like. Chill mixture for 15 minutes. Roll ball into bite-sized balls. I use a small melon scoop to get a uniform size and flat bottom. Chill balls 15 minutes.
Place sheet of waxed paper on counter (I go through TONS of waxed paper when I make candy!). Melt chocolate in microwave (depending on the amount check on it in 30 second intervals). Using fork, dip balls (roll around until coated), lift on fork and tap off excess chocolate, scrap bottom of fork on edge of bowl, and slide onto waxed paper.
Poop takes about 30 minutes to dry, so add sprinkles (or Oreo 'dirt') if desired.
A couple of comments here: I REFUSE TO USE ALMOND BARK (which is made from vegetable fats and NOT cocoa butter). Yes, I know white chocolate isn't "chocolate" per se, but it must have 20% cocoa butter to be called white chocolate, AND you can taste the difference between good quality white chocolate and 'almondbarf bark'. The bark has less flavor and more of a waxy texture--BLECH!
In the baking aisle of any grocery store, you can find white chocolate chips (Ghiradelli or Nestles are both good)--Buy them. If you're going to make something, then put forth your best effort and make it taste good, too.
That's it for today!
Later, Peeps!
Okay, that was fun, wasn't it? :-) This was my very first video upload, too! What a great way to start off the week with a bang!
Anyhoo, back to the topic of this blog.
Every Christmas, one of my husband's employees makes these cookie/candy concoctions that she calls, Polar Bear Poop. They are coated in white almond bark with a chocolate melt-in-your-mouth center--DELICIOUS! But she is very secretive about her recipe. One day about a month ago, I was trolling through my Farmville gifties (giving and receiving) and a small ad with a picture flashes on the sidebar.
It looked like Polar Bear Poop, but it had some boring name like, "OREO COOKIE BALLS". Puh-leese! Couldn't they come up with something better?? Heck, I like Jody's 'Faerie Farts' better than this!
Here's the recipe for . . . POLAR BEAR POOP
1-18 oz. pkg Oreo cookies
1-8 oz. pkg cream cheese--room temperature
White chocolate
Process Oreos in food processor until fine (wet sandy texture). Add cream cheese to crumbs and blend until dough-like. Chill mixture for 15 minutes. Roll ball into bite-sized balls. I use a small melon scoop to get a uniform size and flat bottom. Chill balls 15 minutes.
Place sheet of waxed paper on counter (I go through TONS of waxed paper when I make candy!). Melt chocolate in microwave (depending on the amount check on it in 30 second intervals). Using fork, dip balls (roll around until coated), lift on fork and tap off excess chocolate, scrap bottom of fork on edge of bowl, and slide onto waxed paper.
Poop takes about 30 minutes to dry, so add sprinkles (or Oreo 'dirt') if desired.
A couple of comments here: I REFUSE TO USE ALMOND BARK (which is made from vegetable fats and NOT cocoa butter). Yes, I know white chocolate isn't "chocolate" per se, but it must have 20% cocoa butter to be called white chocolate, AND you can taste the difference between good quality white chocolate and 'almond
In the baking aisle of any grocery store, you can find white chocolate chips (Ghiradelli or Nestles are both good)--Buy them. If you're going to make something, then put forth your best effort and make it taste good, too.
That's it for today!
Later, Peeps!
1/7/11
To Follow or Not To Follow
I will NOT lay claim that I know everything about blogging. I don't. In fact, it wasn't until October that I discovered I can find my blog statistics on my Blogger dashboard. See, I'm slow on the uptake.
I'll be the first to admit that I love looking at my STATS. I find it interesting that I get more hits on the day AFTER I post my blog, plus people seem to look at it on their morning breaks or lunch hour. :-) I've had people from South Korea, Turkey, South Africa, Ukraine, Brazil and of course, the US looking at my blog. Do I know who these people are? No, but I suspect some of them might be my Facebook Farmville friends. *waves* Hey, Farmers!
Anyhoo, on my last blog I promised to tell you about FOLLOWING. I follow numerous blogs. It's easy to set up. There's nothing worse than sorting through the blog list on your favorites bar only to discover the blog hasn't posted anything new in days/weeks/months. When you set up FOLLOWING, it updates the bloglist with the newest blogs that have posted. It's easy-peasy to scroll down the list and click on the topics that interest you, and ignore the rest.
I should also point out that it posts the first three lines of those posts, roughly 35 words. Make your first 35 words worthy to snag the potential blog reader. Something to think about.
I will qualify my comments to reflect my experience with Blogger. I don't know about Wordpress or the other blogs systems. I also don't know if you can FOLLOW if you do not have a blog.
See, told you I don't know much.
Following a blog is easy if the blog has a FOLLOWERS set up on their blog page. To set it up, simply pick the 'gadget' and add it to your design. Blogger automatically has it set up for the reader to follow with one click.
IF you want to follow a blog that doesn't have FOLLOWERS listed on their page then you have to follow them from your dashboard, under Blogs I'm following. Click the blue ADD button to copy and paste the URL link to the list.
IF you want to DELETE a blog, click the blue MANAGE button. A new screen pops up with all the blogs you follow. Click the 'settings' button next to the blog you want to delete. To the right on the pop-up screen, there is a highlighted DO YOU WANT TO STOP FOLLOWING? Click it, and it removes the blog.
That's it.
I like FOLLOWING. It frees up my time to do other things, like virtual farming or writing. And I have to admit that I'm more conscientious about the first few words on my blog.
Since it's the time of year to make goals and start writing. One more round of edits for FAERIE and I'll continue querying it, while I edit TROLL. Then I need to come up with a story for book 4, tentatively called TROLL 2, since it's a continuation of TROLL (my hero escapes, but not without losses).
Oh, Lissa wanted a candy recipe so I'm trolling through my goodies and will post a recipe on Monday lovingly called POLAR BEAR POOP.
Later, Peeps.
I'll be the first to admit that I love looking at my STATS. I find it interesting that I get more hits on the day AFTER I post my blog, plus people seem to look at it on their morning breaks or lunch hour. :-) I've had people from South Korea, Turkey, South Africa, Ukraine, Brazil and of course, the US looking at my blog. Do I know who these people are? No, but I suspect some of them might be my Facebook Farmville friends. *waves* Hey, Farmers!
Anyhoo, on my last blog I promised to tell you about FOLLOWING. I follow numerous blogs. It's easy to set up. There's nothing worse than sorting through the blog list on your favorites bar only to discover the blog hasn't posted anything new in days/weeks/months. When you set up FOLLOWING, it updates the bloglist with the newest blogs that have posted. It's easy-peasy to scroll down the list and click on the topics that interest you, and ignore the rest.
I should also point out that it posts the first three lines of those posts, roughly 35 words. Make your first 35 words worthy to snag the potential blog reader. Something to think about.
I will qualify my comments to reflect my experience with Blogger. I don't know about Wordpress or the other blogs systems. I also don't know if you can FOLLOW if you do not have a blog.
See, told you I don't know much.
Following a blog is easy if the blog has a FOLLOWERS set up on their blog page. To set it up, simply pick the 'gadget' and add it to your design. Blogger automatically has it set up for the reader to follow with one click.
IF you want to follow a blog that doesn't have FOLLOWERS listed on their page then you have to follow them from your dashboard, under Blogs I'm following. Click the blue ADD button to copy and paste the URL link to the list.
IF you want to DELETE a blog, click the blue MANAGE button. A new screen pops up with all the blogs you follow. Click the 'settings' button next to the blog you want to delete. To the right on the pop-up screen, there is a highlighted DO YOU WANT TO STOP FOLLOWING? Click it, and it removes the blog.
That's it.
I like FOLLOWING. It frees up my time to do other things, like virtual farming or writing. And I have to admit that I'm more conscientious about the first few words on my blog.
Since it's the time of year to make goals and start writing. One more round of edits for FAERIE and I'll continue querying it, while I edit TROLL. Then I need to come up with a story for book 4, tentatively called TROLL 2, since it's a continuation of TROLL (my hero escapes, but not without losses).
Oh, Lissa wanted a candy recipe so I'm trolling through my goodies and will post a recipe on Monday lovingly called POLAR BEAR POOP.
Later, Peeps.
1/5/11
Losing Blog Loyalty
Over the last few months I've stopped reading numerous blogs.
In my defense, many of the blogs changed their focus--which lost my interest. I'm sorry, but as nice as it is for you to pimp your friend's books, it's low on my personal interest level. In other words, IT'S ME, NOT YOU that's causing our break-up.
Some of the blogs have run out of interesting information--repetition is the death of a story and a blog.
While other blogs, though interesting at first, lost their appeal--I guess I'm too mature for the content of nasty language and attitude.
And as much as I like CakeWrecks, just how many nasty looking cakes can one look at? I'll still check out their Sunday Sweets, but the blog isn't on my blogroll any more.
I'm not going to try to figure it out. What's the point? Blogs and blog readers are like marriages. Sometimes you grow old together, while other times you grow apart to the point of divorce.
I've known many of my friends who have joined or expanded, or changed the focus of their group blogs, grogs or glogs--whatever--and I've stopped reading the blog.
Why?
Because I have no idea when the people who I want to read will be posting their blog. If it's every other week, then forget it. Too much time has gone past and I don't care enough to keep checking back. Yes, I think there is such a thing as too big of a grog.
If it's the focus of the blog, then that's another beast. I have many friends who have sold recently, and they have friends who have sold, and so on and so forth. I know publishing houses have dropped the ball on publicity, but I don't want to read about someone's new book or read a review of a book that doesn't interest me.
I WANT TO READ ABOUT MY FRIEND'S OBSERVATIONS ABOUT LIFE AND WRITING. Period.
IMO--the optimal grog would have assigned days for up to five members--more members dilutes the purpose of the blog. Less is okay, but stick with specific days of the week designated for new blog (M-W-F or T-Th-S).
--But I've never been invited to join a grog since I don't play well with others, so it's a mute point as to my opinion on the topic.
Will my observations change the way I do this blog?
Heck, no! Because I started this blog because I wanted to blog. If I have followers--woohoo! I have to admit that it is more fun when people feel compelled to comment and we start a conversation. But if I lose followers, well, it hasn't stopped me from talking to myself before, why would that change?
My blog will have stuff that interests me. Whether it's life's observations, or candy recipes, or a short story, or my opinion of grogs, then that's what I'll post.
Oh, speaking of which, here's a new contest from Writer's Digest. They have a picture posted and you have to write a story based on the picture. Cool, huh? I entered. If it finals--woohoo! If it doesn't--then y'all will get to read my short story.
On Friday, I cover how to FOLLOW a blog so you don't have to keep checking back to a blog to see if something new is posted!
Later, Peeps!
In my defense, many of the blogs changed their focus--which lost my interest. I'm sorry, but as nice as it is for you to pimp your friend's books, it's low on my personal interest level. In other words, IT'S ME, NOT YOU that's causing our break-up.
Some of the blogs have run out of interesting information--repetition is the death of a story and a blog.
While other blogs, though interesting at first, lost their appeal--I guess I'm too mature for the content of nasty language and attitude.
And as much as I like CakeWrecks, just how many nasty looking cakes can one look at? I'll still check out their Sunday Sweets, but the blog isn't on my blogroll any more.
I'm not going to try to figure it out. What's the point? Blogs and blog readers are like marriages. Sometimes you grow old together, while other times you grow apart to the point of divorce.
I've known many of my friends who have joined or expanded, or changed the focus of their group blogs, grogs or glogs--whatever--and I've stopped reading the blog.
Why?
Because I have no idea when the people who I want to read will be posting their blog. If it's every other week, then forget it. Too much time has gone past and I don't care enough to keep checking back. Yes, I think there is such a thing as too big of a grog.
If it's the focus of the blog, then that's another beast. I have many friends who have sold recently, and they have friends who have sold, and so on and so forth. I know publishing houses have dropped the ball on publicity, but I don't want to read about someone's new book or read a review of a book that doesn't interest me.
I WANT TO READ ABOUT MY FRIEND'S OBSERVATIONS ABOUT LIFE AND WRITING. Period.
IMO--the optimal grog would have assigned days for up to five members--more members dilutes the purpose of the blog. Less is okay, but stick with specific days of the week designated for new blog (M-W-F or T-Th-S).
--But I've never been invited to join a grog since I don't play well with others, so it's a mute point as to my opinion on the topic.
Will my observations change the way I do this blog?
Heck, no! Because I started this blog because I wanted to blog. If I have followers--woohoo! I have to admit that it is more fun when people feel compelled to comment and we start a conversation. But if I lose followers, well, it hasn't stopped me from talking to myself before, why would that change?
My blog will have stuff that interests me. Whether it's life's observations, or candy recipes, or a short story, or my opinion of grogs, then that's what I'll post.
Oh, speaking of which, here's a new contest from Writer's Digest. They have a picture posted and you have to write a story based on the picture. Cool, huh? I entered. If it finals--woohoo! If it doesn't--then y'all will get to read my short story.
On Friday, I cover how to FOLLOW a blog so you don't have to keep checking back to a blog to see if something new is posted!
Later, Peeps!
1/3/11
Are You ready for the New Year?
I think I'm ready. And I'm not just talking about writing here. I'm talking about the wholeness of your life. This is the perfect time of year to donate, have a garage sale, or trash the stuff that's adding stress to your life.
Stress isn't worth it, people. The medical community has proven the point time and time again. Many, many years ago, I learned that if I can't change the outcome of something then why worry about it. Why worry about the outcome when agent/editor who has your manuscript? If you've done your job, then it's the best it can be. If it gets rejected then it simply wasn't for them at this time. What's done is done. Don't dwell on the past, all it does is give you ulcers and wrinkles (and I have enough of these, thank you very much!).
If you tend to gather 'stuff' over the years, then declutter. And yes, I'm as guilty as the next person of storing 'stuff' in closets and not getting rid of it! If you're thinking about moving because you don't have enough space in your house, then get rid of stuff!
If you have kids and their 'stuff' breeds more stuff. Have a day(s) to thin out their closets, drawers, toys, and games. Donate or trash. Does your kid really need all those McDonalds toys? I don't think so--Okay, she can keep the cute little animals (I have a few bunnies stashed in my desk drawer, too!)
Go through your own closets and drawers. Yes, I know you want to get into that pair of pants, shirt, or dress that you wore when you were 20 pounds lighter, but REALLY?? Styles change. It's time to let go. I know, I know, I'm as guilty as the next person, but you can get rid of some of the junk. Trust me, it's easier once you get started.
If you--like so many others in this economy--are having financial issues, don't just worry about it, ACTIVELY TRY TO ALLEVIATE THE SITUATION. Do you really need cable? Granted, you might need it for the Internet connectivity for job searches, eBay, etc.--you can go to the nearest McDonalds for that if you have a laptop--but do you really need all the premium channels? I doubt it. I don't remember the last time I actually watched a movie on HBO. Cut the extraneous.
--take all the stuff you've decluttered and sell it in a garage sale.---use the extra cash to pay for the next week's groceries, or bills. DO NOT GO OUT AND BUY MORE STUFF!
--don't plan to 're-gift' Christmas presents. It adds to the clutter you're trying to get rid of! Send the giver a nice thank you note and then sell the item. If it's a family 'heirloom', find a nice, safe spot up on the attic.
If you want to write a story, a book, or simply keep a log of your family recipes, then QUIT TALKING ABOUT IT AND MAKE SOME TIME TO DO IT! (sorry, Nike!)
Do you realize that buying healthy is ACTUALLY cheaper than buying processed and prepackaged food? Buy more fruits and veggies. There's a reason to buy the food that's in season. One, it's cheaper AND two, it isn't imported. Yes, I know you have that craving for cherries in the middle of winter, but they're grown in Chile and imported, adding to the cost. An apple is just as good. Your body will thank you along with your bank account.
I'm sure I could come up with more 'gems of wisdom', but it's time to let the dog back in.
Later, Peeps!
Stress isn't worth it, people. The medical community has proven the point time and time again. Many, many years ago, I learned that if I can't change the outcome of something then why worry about it. Why worry about the outcome when agent/editor who has your manuscript? If you've done your job, then it's the best it can be. If it gets rejected then it simply wasn't for them at this time. What's done is done. Don't dwell on the past, all it does is give you ulcers and wrinkles (and I have enough of these, thank you very much!).
If you tend to gather 'stuff' over the years, then declutter. And yes, I'm as guilty as the next person of storing 'stuff' in closets and not getting rid of it! If you're thinking about moving because you don't have enough space in your house, then get rid of stuff!
If you have kids and their 'stuff' breeds more stuff. Have a day(s) to thin out their closets, drawers, toys, and games. Donate or trash. Does your kid really need all those McDonalds toys? I don't think so--Okay, she can keep the cute little animals (I have a few bunnies stashed in my desk drawer, too!)
Go through your own closets and drawers. Yes, I know you want to get into that pair of pants, shirt, or dress that you wore when you were 20 pounds lighter, but REALLY?? Styles change. It's time to let go. I know, I know, I'm as guilty as the next person, but you can get rid of some of the junk. Trust me, it's easier once you get started.
If you--like so many others in this economy--are having financial issues, don't just worry about it, ACTIVELY TRY TO ALLEVIATE THE SITUATION. Do you really need cable? Granted, you might need it for the Internet connectivity for job searches, eBay, etc.--you can go to the nearest McDonalds for that if you have a laptop--but do you really need all the premium channels? I doubt it. I don't remember the last time I actually watched a movie on HBO. Cut the extraneous.
--take all the stuff you've decluttered and sell it in a garage sale.---use the extra cash to pay for the next week's groceries, or bills. DO NOT GO OUT AND BUY MORE STUFF!
--don't plan to 're-gift' Christmas presents. It adds to the clutter you're trying to get rid of! Send the giver a nice thank you note and then sell the item. If it's a family 'heirloom', find a nice, safe spot up on the attic.
If you want to write a story, a book, or simply keep a log of your family recipes, then QUIT TALKING ABOUT IT AND MAKE SOME TIME TO DO IT! (sorry, Nike!)
Do you realize that buying healthy is ACTUALLY cheaper than buying processed and prepackaged food? Buy more fruits and veggies. There's a reason to buy the food that's in season. One, it's cheaper AND two, it isn't imported. Yes, I know you have that craving for cherries in the middle of winter, but they're grown in Chile and imported, adding to the cost. An apple is just as good. Your body will thank you along with your bank account.
I'm sure I could come up with more 'gems of wisdom', but it's time to let the dog back in.
Later, Peeps!
12/31/10
Winding Down the Old Year . . .
Yesterday we had our last 'hurrah'! Which is why this post is late because I'm actually writing it at 6:15-7:15 on New Year's Eve morning! Thursday was supposed to be one of the nicest days this week-overcast with temps in the 60's. The hubster was planning on taking down the outside Christmas lights, except he had already done that on Monday.
So we decided to take a short day trip to Silver Dollar City. Short is a relative term. It's about a 3-3-5 hour drive.
I packed up a ditty-bag with the scarf I'm crocheting for the kidlet and my Kindle. The kidlet packed her Nintendo DS, a couple of books (and regaled us with information about Chupacabras and Leucrotta's--yes, I had to look THAT one up on wikipedia!) a pillow and blanket. The hubster ALWAYS drives . . . for a couple of reasons:
1) I HATE DRIVING
2) I used to offer to drive, but when he wanted to change drivers we would be in a place (Denver, snow, mountain driving) that I had pre-negotiated my refusal to drive.
We stopped to eat lunch at Zio's in Springfield and continued on our way. We knew it would be crowded because this was the last day SDC would be open until mid-March--but WOWZERS! We opted for the paid parking that is available for season pass holders. We'd have to walk to and from our parking space but it sure beats waiting for a tram along with a gazillion other people to take you to the North 40 parking area!
As I mentioned, we go to SDC for the rides. Oh, sure, they have shows and craft demos, etc, etc, but why waste time watching a show if you can ride a rollercoaster???? The lines were hideous because some genius in SDC's management decided to have the mechanics start breaking down the cars on ALL the rides, leaving only one car per ride. NOT SMART, PEOPLE! (yes, I'm going to send them a letter. And yes, I realize the didn't expect the last day to generate that many people. And yes, I realize they hadn't calculated the temperatures would be in the 60's--but this isn't the first time someone messed up). If you are scheduled to be open, then you need to anticipate a crowd. We waited an hour for Wildfire. PowderKeg was better since they had two sets of cars running.
While we waited in line for Wildfire, it got dark and SDC became a magical fairyland with lights. The lights made up for my earlier crankiness.
We left around 7:30 for the drive home. It was too dark to crochet, so I pulled out my Kindle (with its handy dandy little light) and started to read Treasure Island. I have NEVER read TI, so I thought it would be a good idea to get used to the Kindle by reading a 'freebie'. I'm about 1/4 of the way finished.
And if they didn't provide the little line at the bottom of the page, I would never have figured it out! There are a couple of love/hate things I've discovered while using an ereader.
--I enjoy reading on the Kindle. Even though I needed a little light to read it at night, it was not distracting to the driver. If you angled it right, it didn't glare on the screen.
--I HATE that I can't 'cheat' and read the ending. Oh, I know things will work out, but I still like to check it out.
--I don't like the way the formatted the ebook. I don't know if they screwed up because it is a freebie, but sometimes the paragraphs were indented and sometimes they weren't.
--I didn't like that I had no idea where the chapter breaks were. True, skipping ahead I might figure it out, but they run the chapters together with the text--THERE IS NO EASILY SPOTTED BREAKING POINT.
--My eyes got tired quicker than I expected. I don't know if it was because we had a long day, or if it was because of the ereader, or if it was the light. I'll have to test a couple of theories.
--And I won't go into it here, but I STILL THINK IT'S A TOTAL RIP-OFF BY PUBLISHING HOUSES TO CHARGE THE SAME PRICE AS THEY WOULD A PRINT BOOK. Talk about a 90+% profit margin!
Well, that's it for today. I need to round up last year's goals and set some new ones for this year. I tried to read 50 books this year and I'm on book #48--I should finish it today--so I think that is a good goal to keep for next year.
If the weather cooperates, we'll be hanging by the outdoor fireplace tonight before we transfer to the hot tub. Hubster and I will have some bubbly and the kidlet will have sparkling grape juice. . . at least with a drink in her hand, she'll refrain from 'swimming' in the hot tub.--NOT RELAXING! O' child who sprung from my loins!
See you all in the New Year!
So we decided to take a short day trip to Silver Dollar City. Short is a relative term. It's about a 3-3-5 hour drive.
I packed up a ditty-bag with the scarf I'm crocheting for the kidlet and my Kindle. The kidlet packed her Nintendo DS, a couple of books (and regaled us with information about Chupacabras and Leucrotta's--yes, I had to look THAT one up on wikipedia!) a pillow and blanket. The hubster ALWAYS drives . . . for a couple of reasons:
1) I HATE DRIVING
2) I used to offer to drive, but when he wanted to change drivers we would be in a place (Denver, snow, mountain driving) that I had pre-negotiated my refusal to drive.
We stopped to eat lunch at Zio's in Springfield and continued on our way. We knew it would be crowded because this was the last day SDC would be open until mid-March--but WOWZERS! We opted for the paid parking that is available for season pass holders. We'd have to walk to and from our parking space but it sure beats waiting for a tram along with a gazillion other people to take you to the North 40 parking area!
As I mentioned, we go to SDC for the rides. Oh, sure, they have shows and craft demos, etc, etc, but why waste time watching a show if you can ride a rollercoaster???? The lines were hideous because some genius in SDC's management decided to have the mechanics start breaking down the cars on ALL the rides, leaving only one car per ride. NOT SMART, PEOPLE! (yes, I'm going to send them a letter. And yes, I realize the didn't expect the last day to generate that many people. And yes, I realize they hadn't calculated the temperatures would be in the 60's--but this isn't the first time someone messed up). If you are scheduled to be open, then you need to anticipate a crowd. We waited an hour for Wildfire. PowderKeg was better since they had two sets of cars running.
While we waited in line for Wildfire, it got dark and SDC became a magical fairyland with lights. The lights made up for my earlier crankiness.
We left around 7:30 for the drive home. It was too dark to crochet, so I pulled out my Kindle (with its handy dandy little light) and started to read Treasure Island. I have NEVER read TI, so I thought it would be a good idea to get used to the Kindle by reading a 'freebie'. I'm about 1/4 of the way finished.
And if they didn't provide the little line at the bottom of the page, I would never have figured it out! There are a couple of love/hate things I've discovered while using an ereader.
--I enjoy reading on the Kindle. Even though I needed a little light to read it at night, it was not distracting to the driver. If you angled it right, it didn't glare on the screen.
--I HATE that I can't 'cheat' and read the ending. Oh, I know things will work out, but I still like to check it out.
--I don't like the way the formatted the ebook. I don't know if they screwed up because it is a freebie, but sometimes the paragraphs were indented and sometimes they weren't.
--I didn't like that I had no idea where the chapter breaks were. True, skipping ahead I might figure it out, but they run the chapters together with the text--THERE IS NO EASILY SPOTTED BREAKING POINT.
--My eyes got tired quicker than I expected. I don't know if it was because we had a long day, or if it was because of the ereader, or if it was the light. I'll have to test a couple of theories.
--And I won't go into it here, but I STILL THINK IT'S A TOTAL RIP-OFF BY PUBLISHING HOUSES TO CHARGE THE SAME PRICE AS THEY WOULD A PRINT BOOK. Talk about a 90+% profit margin!
Well, that's it for today. I need to round up last year's goals and set some new ones for this year. I tried to read 50 books this year and I'm on book #48--I should finish it today--so I think that is a good goal to keep for next year.
If the weather cooperates, we'll be hanging by the outdoor fireplace tonight before we transfer to the hot tub. Hubster and I will have some bubbly and the kidlet will have sparkling grape juice. . . at least with a drink in her hand, she'll refrain from 'swimming' in the hot tub.--NOT RELAXING! O' child who sprung from my loins!
See you all in the New Year!
12/29/10
Assorted Blatherings
And yes! We have Christmas packed away! I know, I know, we're either overachievers or party poopers, pick your favorite. We still need to 'spring clean' in the sense that all of us have run out of hangers. And no, I will NOT buy more. We must remove the clothes we don't wear or don't fit us any longer to make room for our new stuff. And then we'll tackle the kidlet's craft boxes and toy closet.
I'm also tired of the silk flower arrangements that I made when we moved into the house--15 YEARS AGO! It's time to move out of the 90's and style our house accordingly. The reason we haven't changed much in 15 years is because my hubster has very definite opinions about the house. For those of you who know him--no surprise there! Right? To get a meeting of minds takes much time, arguing and finding just the right doodad to fit in just the right spot.
--Maybe this time next year we'll have our act together!
I'm not going to bore you with goal setting--I did that last year. If you came here to figure out how I set and keep goals, then you need to check HERE. The goals were different and some were met this year while some weren't, but this is my system and it seems to work for me. I posted six blog entries, if you want to read them. Scroll down on the right side of the blog and read away.
If you feel in the mood to read a short story, SUGAR PLUM DISASTER starts here. It's a good story, though it has evolved during a few rounds of edits since I originally posted the story. I really enjoyed writing my first serial blog story, but I must say that coming up with each part when I only had a day or two to think about it was stressful.
If I can do anything in this New Year, then I want to help other writers to follow their dreams. And no, I won't tell everyone about the magic elixir behind the tomato sauce in my pantry--THAT'S MINE! Sorry, hate to break this to you, but there isn't any magic elixir since George Lucas guzzled it down. So all that's left for a writer to do is to buckle down, write, and write some more. Your first book may not get published, heck, your twenty-first book might not get published. But all you can do is to apply your craft and keep writing AND submitting. Yeah, hate to tell you this, but you WON'T publish if you don't learn the business of publishing and get your work out there.
That's it for now! I guess I'll just enjoy my clean house for an hour before Maggie, THE DESTRUCTOR, gets busy with ripping up her toys . . . and the kidlet taking stuff out of her closet to work on "crafts".
Oh, well, maybe I'll just go and get my hair cut.
Later, Peeps!
I'm also tired of the silk flower arrangements that I made when we moved into the house--15 YEARS AGO! It's time to move out of the 90's and style our house accordingly. The reason we haven't changed much in 15 years is because my hubster has very definite opinions about the house. For those of you who know him--no surprise there! Right? To get a meeting of minds takes much time, arguing and finding just the right doodad to fit in just the right spot.
--Maybe this time next year we'll have our act together!
I'm not going to bore you with goal setting--I did that last year. If you came here to figure out how I set and keep goals, then you need to check HERE. The goals were different and some were met this year while some weren't, but this is my system and it seems to work for me. I posted six blog entries, if you want to read them. Scroll down on the right side of the blog and read away.
If you feel in the mood to read a short story, SUGAR PLUM DISASTER starts here. It's a good story, though it has evolved during a few rounds of edits since I originally posted the story. I really enjoyed writing my first serial blog story, but I must say that coming up with each part when I only had a day or two to think about it was stressful.
If I can do anything in this New Year, then I want to help other writers to follow their dreams. And no, I won't tell everyone about the magic elixir behind the tomato sauce in my pantry--THAT'S MINE! Sorry, hate to break this to you, but there isn't any magic elixir since George Lucas guzzled it down. So all that's left for a writer to do is to buckle down, write, and write some more. Your first book may not get published, heck, your twenty-first book might not get published. But all you can do is to apply your craft and keep writing AND submitting. Yeah, hate to tell you this, but you WON'T publish if you don't learn the business of publishing and get your work out there.
That's it for now! I guess I'll just enjoy my clean house for an hour before Maggie, THE DESTRUCTOR, gets busy with ripping up her toys . . . and the kidlet taking stuff out of her closet to work on "crafts".
Oh, well, maybe I'll just go and get my hair cut.
Later, Peeps!
12/27/10
Post Christmas Blues? Try an Early Spring Cleaning.
 |
| "Whadda mean I wasn't supposed to open it to get the squeaky out??" |
Toys opened beyond the basic paper. Polyester guts strewn all over the floor.
Mr. Kato Kitty got the munchies when he was stoned on cat nip. Of course, I figured that it would be a good way to go considering he's a well-aged kitty cat.
My children, the old one (46) and the young one (10) argued, fought, and worked together playing the new Wii games.
I 'tested' my new Keurig coffee system and drank more coffee in two days than any normal person has a need, while downloading books on my new Kindle.
 |
| The 'raindeeer' was just because. |
My daughter figured out how to use paint on the computer--by herself--mind you, and created these works of art.
 |
| For Daddy |
 |
| For Mom |
 |
| For Santa |
Personally, I love and hate this post-Christmas season. The house is a mess with stuff strewn everywhere--and this isn't counting the critter guts that Maggie left all over the house. Dust gathers on every available surface.But this is also a good time of year to clean out the house, remove the unused items and donate them. This is when I do my 'spring cleaning'.
It's a mental spring cleaning along with the physical one. Remove all the bad or non-productive stuff from the previous year and start the new year bright and fresh with a clean slate.
Instead of post-Christmas letdown think of this time of year as a pre-New Year readjustment to your life.
Peace out! And can someone lend me a hand to pick up some Panda guts?
12/24/10
Merry Christmas!!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
WISHING YOU AND YOURS A HAPPY, HEALTHY AND SAFE HOLIDAY SEASON!
LOVE AND PEACE,
MARGARET
12/22/10
Are you ready for a Writing Career??
I AM A WRITER.
Some people have written their entire lives, I only started writing in 2001. Oh, I would write sporadically in my younger days, but I took almost 20+ years off before I started writing again (horses, ya know). And no, I'm definitely not one of those overachiever writers who claimed they were born with a pencil in their tiny fist.
I started writing romance and it took me until 2007 to realize that I suck at romance writing. I LOVE to read romances, but I'm simply not able to delve (2nd time in two blogs that I've used this word. Must be my 'word of the week' word) into the emotional psyche of the hero and heroine. I like external motivation. Now, this isn't to say that my writing lacks internal motivation for the character. It's there, just not the conflict between the hero and heroine.
So were all those years of writing wasted when I switched to writing middle grade?
NO. I learned writing craft. And if I have to say so myself--I'm a damn slow learner!
With every book a writer writes, their ability to craft word pictures improves.
I have to say that I was just as impatient as the next writer to see my name on the cover of a book. I queried books that weren't ready--and probably never would be ready for prime time. I didn't believe in 'practice' books. (Yes, y'all can laugh at me now, AND I'll even join you as I snicker over my naivete) I had to write many books and receive HUNDREDS of rejections before I realized I wasn't ready to publish.
I believe I'm ready now, BUT I can wait. :-) I've become patience personified.
WHY?
Because this is my CAREER. Getting my name on a book isn't good enough any longer.
--I've always wanted to suck a reader into my make-believe world.
--I want the reader to have a fun/scary/sad adventure.
--I want the reader to LIVE the story through my characters.
--I want my readers to fall asleep dreaming of Kyte (my 11-year old heroine), or Piper (the hot pink faerie), Rory Leafhopper (gnome extraordinaire) or Taffy and Toffee (the Sugar Plum Fairy's brownie helpers), or Zinzara (the dragon).
--I want it ALL.
So many writers are so anxious to get published, they sign the first contract they see (Granted, if I EVER got a contract, I'd probably be the same way--but as I haven't been offered one, then it's a moot point, isn't it?) without thinking about the big picture of their career.
Would signing a contract for a small erotic e-publisher help your career if you have no intention of writing erotic stories? Maybe, but it could also stop your budding career like a hard freeze, nipping it off at the bud.
Something to think about.
A couple of years ago on one of the RWA loops, writers started using the the term 'pre-published'. I HATE that term. It's right up there with 'paying your dues'. I worked night shift (11-7) in a hospital for NINE years 'paying my dues' when some other yahoo would immediately get on days. Or, how about, "dieting is a 'lifestyle change'".
THOSE TERMS SERIOUSLY BITE!
Pre-pubbed sounds like a little kid trying to walk in her mother's high heels. It's immature and unprofessional. Grow up and decide how you visualize your career. A career isn't one book with your name on it. A career is long term and using the term pre-pubbed denigrates your career.
HI! I'M MARGARET AND I'M A WRITER . . . albeit a non-contracted one.
Peace out!
Some people have written their entire lives, I only started writing in 2001. Oh, I would write sporadically in my younger days, but I took almost 20+ years off before I started writing again (horses, ya know). And no, I'm definitely not one of those overachiever writers who claimed they were born with a pencil in their tiny fist.
I started writing romance and it took me until 2007 to realize that I suck at romance writing. I LOVE to read romances, but I'm simply not able to delve (2nd time in two blogs that I've used this word. Must be my 'word of the week' word) into the emotional psyche of the hero and heroine. I like external motivation. Now, this isn't to say that my writing lacks internal motivation for the character. It's there, just not the conflict between the hero and heroine.
So were all those years of writing wasted when I switched to writing middle grade?
NO. I learned writing craft. And if I have to say so myself--I'm a damn slow learner!
With every book a writer writes, their ability to craft word pictures improves.
I have to say that I was just as impatient as the next writer to see my name on the cover of a book. I queried books that weren't ready--and probably never would be ready for prime time. I didn't believe in 'practice' books. (Yes, y'all can laugh at me now, AND I'll even join you as I snicker over my naivete) I had to write many books and receive HUNDREDS of rejections before I realized I wasn't ready to publish.
I believe I'm ready now, BUT I can wait. :-) I've become patience personified.
WHY?
Because this is my CAREER. Getting my name on a book isn't good enough any longer.
--I've always wanted to suck a reader into my make-believe world.
--I want the reader to have a fun/scary/sad adventure.
--I want the reader to LIVE the story through my characters.
--I want my readers to fall asleep dreaming of Kyte (my 11-year old heroine), or Piper (the hot pink faerie), Rory Leafhopper (gnome extraordinaire) or Taffy and Toffee (the Sugar Plum Fairy's brownie helpers), or Zinzara (the dragon).
--I want it ALL.
So many writers are so anxious to get published, they sign the first contract they see (Granted, if I EVER got a contract, I'd probably be the same way--but as I haven't been offered one, then it's a moot point, isn't it?) without thinking about the big picture of their career.
Would signing a contract for a small erotic e-publisher help your career if you have no intention of writing erotic stories? Maybe, but it could also stop your budding career like a hard freeze, nipping it off at the bud.
Something to think about.
A couple of years ago on one of the RWA loops, writers started using the the term 'pre-published'. I HATE that term. It's right up there with 'paying your dues'. I worked night shift (11-7) in a hospital for NINE years 'paying my dues' when some other yahoo would immediately get on days. Or, how about, "dieting is a 'lifestyle change'".
THOSE TERMS SERIOUSLY BITE!
Pre-pubbed sounds like a little kid trying to walk in her mother's high heels. It's immature and unprofessional. Grow up and decide how you visualize your career. A career isn't one book with your name on it. A career is long term and using the term pre-pubbed denigrates your career.
HI! I'M MARGARET AND I'M A WRITER . . . albeit a non-contracted one.
Peace out!
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!
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