ALAINA'S PROMISE, the first novel I ever wrote, is now available at Samhain Publishing, Ltd.!
Of course, the book is vastly different from that first effort. After all, I had a lot to learn about writing at the time. I'm very pleased that these characters and their story have finally seen the light of day. It's been a long time coming.
CONTEST reminder:
***If you'd like to win your own download of ALAINA'S PROMISE, all you have to do is respond at least once to one of my blog posts through the end of January... WHICH happens to be tomorrow, folks! So post something, anything (niceness counts, of course ;) ) and I'll enter your name in the drawing. Good luck!***
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Deepen that point of view...
Deep point of view -- what is it, exactly? Well, it's when you get so far into a character's thoughts that you get to know them from the inside out over the course of the book. You feel what they feel; hear, see and even smell what they smell. You almost 'become' the character.
At least, that's my take on that particular term. ;)
How do you write it? It takes practice AND it means no head-hopping! Sorry, folks, it just won't work.
**Covering my butt here in case any editors are lurking. ;) **
Ahem. There is one exercise passed down to me from another writer -- I wish I could remember who it was, but the memory is a bit fuzzy --- although, I'm guessing it was Deborah Hale of Harlequin Romance/LUNA fame. She is a fantastic lady and a wonderful writer. Do check out her books asap.
Anyway, here's what you do:
Write a scene (or a few paragraphs) in first person point of view -- I, me, myself and my. True, I am not a big first-person fan, but do it for me anyhow.
Once you're finished, go back and change all the pronouns to the appropriate gender -- he, she, etc. This can be done, obviously, for any point of view you may feel lacks depth. But try it whenever you have trouble connecting with your characters or just as a writing exercise -- all muscles need a good work-out, even those of the imagination. ;)
Here's a short example of what I'm talking about from my up-coming historical, ALAINA'S PROMISE:
Written in first person:
The cold stillness of the house wrapped around me, chilling me to the bone. I drew in a deep breath as I reached for the banister and climbed the curved staircase.
My father was dying.
I froze midway up the steps, knuckles white as I gripped the smooth wood in an effort to still shaking fingers. Fear snaked around my heart and reached down further into my soul. I squeezed my eyes shut as I fought to dispel the panic. It would do no good for him to see me like this.
“Be strong,” I commanded myself aloud.
Now, I change it to third person:
The cold stillness of the house wrapped around Alaina, chilling her to the bone. She drew in a deep breath as she reached for the banister and climbed the curved staircase.
Her father was dying.
She froze midway up the steps, knuckles white as she gripped the smooth wood in an effort to still shaking fingers. Fear snaked around her heart and reached down further into her soul. She squeezed her eyes shut as she fought to dispel the panic. It would do no good for him to see her like this.
“Be strong,” she commanded herself aloud.
*****
Now, that's not the most perfect example, but hopefully you get the idea. Try this exercise a few times if you're ever unsure of your character; have been told you tend to head-hop; OR you just want to dig a little deeper. Remember, the point is that you can only show things through the narrator's senses. This connects the reader to the character and pulls them more deeply into the story.
Deepen that point of view, and they will care -- they won't be able to stop themselves. ;)
Make them care, and they will come back for more. Don't you? :)
At least, that's my take on that particular term. ;)
How do you write it? It takes practice AND it means no head-hopping! Sorry, folks, it just won't work.
**Covering my butt here in case any editors are lurking. ;) **
Ahem. There is one exercise passed down to me from another writer -- I wish I could remember who it was, but the memory is a bit fuzzy --- although, I'm guessing it was Deborah Hale of Harlequin Romance/LUNA fame. She is a fantastic lady and a wonderful writer. Do check out her books asap.
Anyway, here's what you do:
Write a scene (or a few paragraphs) in first person point of view -- I, me, myself and my. True, I am not a big first-person fan, but do it for me anyhow.
Once you're finished, go back and change all the pronouns to the appropriate gender -- he, she, etc. This can be done, obviously, for any point of view you may feel lacks depth. But try it whenever you have trouble connecting with your characters or just as a writing exercise -- all muscles need a good work-out, even those of the imagination. ;)
Here's a short example of what I'm talking about from my up-coming historical, ALAINA'S PROMISE:
Written in first person:
The cold stillness of the house wrapped around me, chilling me to the bone. I drew in a deep breath as I reached for the banister and climbed the curved staircase.
My father was dying.
I froze midway up the steps, knuckles white as I gripped the smooth wood in an effort to still shaking fingers. Fear snaked around my heart and reached down further into my soul. I squeezed my eyes shut as I fought to dispel the panic. It would do no good for him to see me like this.
“Be strong,” I commanded myself aloud.
Now, I change it to third person:
The cold stillness of the house wrapped around Alaina, chilling her to the bone. She drew in a deep breath as she reached for the banister and climbed the curved staircase.
Her father was dying.
She froze midway up the steps, knuckles white as she gripped the smooth wood in an effort to still shaking fingers. Fear snaked around her heart and reached down further into her soul. She squeezed her eyes shut as she fought to dispel the panic. It would do no good for him to see her like this.
“Be strong,” she commanded herself aloud.
*****
Now, that's not the most perfect example, but hopefully you get the idea. Try this exercise a few times if you're ever unsure of your character; have been told you tend to head-hop; OR you just want to dig a little deeper. Remember, the point is that you can only show things through the narrator's senses. This connects the reader to the character and pulls them more deeply into the story.
Deepen that point of view, and they will care -- they won't be able to stop themselves. ;)
Make them care, and they will come back for more. Don't you? :)
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Writing contests!
We've talked a lot about writing this month, so far. How about jumping in and seeing where it leads you? That's what I did with a writing contest -- the Photo Finish Contest that I won in 2005 with my short story: Romancing Jenny.
Check out this information Unique Enterprises has posted about what both Moonlit Romance and By Grace Publishing are looking for ... and the info on their writing contests. You just may be the next winner.
Good luck!
Check out this information Unique Enterprises has posted about what both Moonlit Romance and By Grace Publishing are looking for ... and the info on their writing contests. You just may be the next winner.
Good luck!
Friday, January 19, 2007
Great new review!
SECRETS AND SHADOWS received another excellent REVIEW.
It's such a thrill to hear when people really enjoy the story. :)
It's such a thrill to hear when people really enjoy the story. :)
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Monday, January 15, 2007
Was, was, was...
It's a marvelous little word -- a verb with a myriad of usages and one that often creeps into my manuscripts. Very often. Okay, much too frequently.
What's wrong with was? Nothing, unless there's something that could be used in its place. Something that will bring the sentence to life -- give it some spark -- add some pizazz.
Verbs are a fantastic tool for writers ... they can describe the action; intensify the emotions or dialogue. But you have to make sure you break things up a bit. I'm using the 'was' example, because it's one most of us tend to fall back on -- and one that I've had many editors and critique partners fling back at me with comments such as: "You're using this too much -- can you find another way to say this?" **Okay, after about the tenth time their comments are bit less diplomatic, but you get the drift. ;)**
There comes a point when we have to break out the Thesaurus and start looking for different ways to say the same thing. I'm one of those people who tends to get a little irritated with word repetition. I don't often catch it in my own work until that final edit, but let me tell you it is really a big pet peeve of mine. Just ask any of my critique partners. On second thought, don't ask them.
Yet sometimes, no matter what you do, it isn't easy to 'say it differently'. For instance, do you know how many synonyms there are for the word 'door'? Not many... and even fewer you can just slide easily into a sentence without sounding like you're using a "Word of the Day" calendar to write. (Been there, done that...have the bald spot to prove it. ;) )
So, what do we do with was? Like salt or pepper ... use it sparingly or it can overpower your prose. The same goes for adverbs. Sprinkle, sprinkle, sprinkle! No dumping allowed! ;)
If you can think of a better way to 'show' the reader what the character is doing or feeling, then use it! It might mean re-writing an entire sentence or paragraph, but that's all part and parcel of this gig. If you can get in the habit of 'showing it better' from the outset, you are way ahead of the game. Otherwise, save it for that round of editing to come. Just keep writing, no matter what. As the great Nora Roberts is fondly paraphrased: You can't fix a blank page.
By the way, don't completely cut any word from your writing. All words were created for us to use, and 'was' is no exception. Like any other part of the writing craft, it takes trial and error to find your voice -- including the words you use.
What's wrong with was? Nothing, unless there's something that could be used in its place. Something that will bring the sentence to life -- give it some spark -- add some pizazz.
Verbs are a fantastic tool for writers ... they can describe the action; intensify the emotions or dialogue. But you have to make sure you break things up a bit. I'm using the 'was' example, because it's one most of us tend to fall back on -- and one that I've had many editors and critique partners fling back at me with comments such as: "You're using this too much -- can you find another way to say this?" **Okay, after about the tenth time their comments are bit less diplomatic, but you get the drift. ;)**
There comes a point when we have to break out the Thesaurus and start looking for different ways to say the same thing. I'm one of those people who tends to get a little irritated with word repetition. I don't often catch it in my own work until that final edit, but let me tell you it is really a big pet peeve of mine. Just ask any of my critique partners. On second thought, don't ask them.
Yet sometimes, no matter what you do, it isn't easy to 'say it differently'. For instance, do you know how many synonyms there are for the word 'door'? Not many... and even fewer you can just slide easily into a sentence without sounding like you're using a "Word of the Day" calendar to write. (Been there, done that...have the bald spot to prove it. ;) )
So, what do we do with was? Like salt or pepper ... use it sparingly or it can overpower your prose. The same goes for adverbs. Sprinkle, sprinkle, sprinkle! No dumping allowed! ;)
If you can think of a better way to 'show' the reader what the character is doing or feeling, then use it! It might mean re-writing an entire sentence or paragraph, but that's all part and parcel of this gig. If you can get in the habit of 'showing it better' from the outset, you are way ahead of the game. Otherwise, save it for that round of editing to come. Just keep writing, no matter what. As the great Nora Roberts is fondly paraphrased: You can't fix a blank page.
By the way, don't completely cut any word from your writing. All words were created for us to use, and 'was' is no exception. Like any other part of the writing craft, it takes trial and error to find your voice -- including the words you use.
Friday, January 12, 2007
To finish, or not to finish....
There really isn't an option.
IF you want to get published someday, you have to reach those two final words in your manuscript: THE END
Easy? Think again. I know many authors -- including myself -- who have more than one computer file filled with starts and stops of various stories. Some will eventually see the light of day, the rest, well...I believe there's a void where those characters will have to live until they somehow weedle their way into another tale.
Beginning a story can be simple. Then you hit, say, CHAPTER FOUR, and things start to stall out. So maybe you skip a few scenes and get some other stuff down on paper (or the screen). But somehow, the story just dies.
Guess what? No one will ever publish an unfinished novel. (Big revelation, huh? ;) )
So you have to make a plan to FINISH THE DA*N STORY!
No one can do it for you. You may have friends who can help brainstorm a plot point or two. You may have others who can motivate you in other ways. But you, and only YOU can finish that story.
Turn off the internal editor. Bribe yourself if you need to and get it done. I know some authors won't let themselves read other books until they finish a wip (work in progress). I did that once with a Dark-Hunter novel I had bought. I wouldn't let myself crack that spine until I finished what I was working on -- believe me, it worked! ;)
Other bribes work, too. Dinner out; a special candy; a new outfit even. Whatever it takes -- that you can afford, obviously -- make yourself a deal and stick with it.
My other tricks are as follows:
1. I finish a scene and/or chapter and let myself edit it through one time. Then I move on to the next part. Then when I finally write THE END, I go through it again from beginning to end.
2. If I get well and truly stuck on one project -- to the point of not being able to write at all -- then I set it aside for a bit and try to work on something else. In my humble opinion, not all ideas are meant to be good novels. But at least I'll get a good writing exercise out of it.
3. Brainstorm with fellow writers for ideas. If you have a good friend who also writes, they can be invaluable to you when it comes to ironing out those plot twists. I've had friends help me from everything from naming a character, historical inaccuracies, and what occupation my hero should have.
**But always remember: no matter what anyone says, it is YOUR story. Don't change a thing if you feel uncomfortable with that change. Obviously, this does not apply to the opinion of an editor who may want to publish your book.**
Again, to finish or not to finish.... well, it depends on whether or not you ever want to get published. Writing is the first step; finishing is the second.
Get going! ;)
IF you want to get published someday, you have to reach those two final words in your manuscript: THE END
Easy? Think again. I know many authors -- including myself -- who have more than one computer file filled with starts and stops of various stories. Some will eventually see the light of day, the rest, well...I believe there's a void where those characters will have to live until they somehow weedle their way into another tale.
Beginning a story can be simple. Then you hit, say, CHAPTER FOUR, and things start to stall out. So maybe you skip a few scenes and get some other stuff down on paper (or the screen). But somehow, the story just dies.
Guess what? No one will ever publish an unfinished novel. (Big revelation, huh? ;) )
So you have to make a plan to FINISH THE DA*N STORY!
No one can do it for you. You may have friends who can help brainstorm a plot point or two. You may have others who can motivate you in other ways. But you, and only YOU can finish that story.
Turn off the internal editor. Bribe yourself if you need to and get it done. I know some authors won't let themselves read other books until they finish a wip (work in progress). I did that once with a Dark-Hunter novel I had bought. I wouldn't let myself crack that spine until I finished what I was working on -- believe me, it worked! ;)
Other bribes work, too. Dinner out; a special candy; a new outfit even. Whatever it takes -- that you can afford, obviously -- make yourself a deal and stick with it.
My other tricks are as follows:
1. I finish a scene and/or chapter and let myself edit it through one time. Then I move on to the next part. Then when I finally write THE END, I go through it again from beginning to end.
2. If I get well and truly stuck on one project -- to the point of not being able to write at all -- then I set it aside for a bit and try to work on something else. In my humble opinion, not all ideas are meant to be good novels. But at least I'll get a good writing exercise out of it.
3. Brainstorm with fellow writers for ideas. If you have a good friend who also writes, they can be invaluable to you when it comes to ironing out those plot twists. I've had friends help me from everything from naming a character, historical inaccuracies, and what occupation my hero should have.
**But always remember: no matter what anyone says, it is YOUR story. Don't change a thing if you feel uncomfortable with that change. Obviously, this does not apply to the opinion of an editor who may want to publish your book.
Again, to finish or not to finish.... well, it depends on whether or not you ever want to get published. Writing is the first step; finishing is the second.
Get going! ;)
Sunday, January 07, 2007
CONTEST here!
Participate in one of the discussions anytime during the month of January, and you could win a download copy of my up-coming sensual historical romance, ALAINA'S PROMISE. It's to be released January 30th from Samhain Publishing!
All you have to do is post -- at least once -- and you'll automatically be entered in a random drawing for the prize. The winner will be announced on this blog and at http://writers-across-time.blogspot.com/ on Monday, Feb. 5th.
So, voice your opinion or share your insights -- we'll all appreciate it and you may be the winner!
All you have to do is post -- at least once -- and you'll automatically be entered in a random drawing for the prize. The winner will be announced on this blog and at http://writers-across-time.blogspot.com/ on Monday, Feb. 5th.
So, voice your opinion or share your insights -- we'll all appreciate it and you may be the winner!
READERS -- tell us what you like!
One way to find out what direction you might want to take when it comes to picking a storyline is to ask the readers themselves.
Personally, I like a variety of romance and some straight mysteries. Give me a good Native American hero, and I'm there! Throw in a sexy vampire, and you have me hooked -- at least enough to check out the back-cover blurb. ;) Add some mystery or suspense, and yes! I want that book! I used to adore Stephen King novels, but I'm not so much into the horror aspect anymore.
So tell us, we really want to know --
What draws you to a book?
What makes it stand out on the shelf OR on that on-line page?
What type of stories are a must-buy?
What type wouldn't you touch with a ten-foot pole?
Do you buy books for your children? IF so, what do they like? Fantasy? Comedy?
Give us some clues, folks. As writers, we love to tell a good story. As writers who want to sell we want to tell a great story that makes you stop, pick up that book (click on the link) and whip out that credit card. ;)
Post away ... readers and writers alike. I can't do this alone. :)
Personally, I like a variety of romance and some straight mysteries. Give me a good Native American hero, and I'm there! Throw in a sexy vampire, and you have me hooked -- at least enough to check out the back-cover blurb. ;) Add some mystery or suspense, and yes! I want that book! I used to adore Stephen King novels, but I'm not so much into the horror aspect anymore.
So tell us, we really want to know --
What draws you to a book?
What makes it stand out on the shelf OR on that on-line page?
What type of stories are a must-buy?
What type wouldn't you touch with a ten-foot pole?
Do you buy books for your children? IF so, what do they like? Fantasy? Comedy?
Give us some clues, folks. As writers, we love to tell a good story. As writers who want to sell we want to tell a great story that makes you stop, pick up that book (click on the link) and whip out that credit card. ;)
Post away ... readers and writers alike. I can't do this alone. :)
Saturday, January 06, 2007
What to write? It's your choice.
How does a writer decide what to write?
Well, honestly, I don't often feel that I have much of a choice. The "Muse" makes that decision for me. No, I am not insane. 'She' is my inspiration...the one that takes an idea and runs with it through time until the perfect people are created; the perfect time decided upon; the perfect conflict crafted; etc.
The MUSE is inspiration, and I honestly believe it's something only true writers have. Is it an entity? An overactive imagination? Maybe both?All I know is that I have to write the story the way it needs to be told. If I even get a name wrong, the story stops flowing and I have to back up and try again.
If you aren't a writer, this makes no sense and you are currently wondering about my mental stability. Like I mentioned before -- I am sane, or as sane as any writer gets. ;)
So, I write what I'm inspired to write. Romance. You may not like romance...then chances are good you won't want to write it. I don't care for science fiction that much except for an occasional Star Trek episode/movie. But I do love paranormal fiction.
Words of wisdom: "Don't write what you know -- write what you love."
Of course you have to do the research if you aren't familiar with aspects of the story -- such as the setting; the time period; a specific occupation one of your main characters has. Research is an important tool to any writer. Get the facts straight or someone, somewhere will catch you...then it'll really hit the fan! ESPECIALLY if you want to write a historical novel. Do not try to fudge your way through history...unless you're creating your own version for a fantasy...because those readers can be very unforgiving.
It all boils down to this: What do you tend to read? What kind of stories draw you in deep and don't let go until that last page is turned? THOSE should be the stories that you write. Whether they be mysteries, sci-fi, young adult adventure, fantasy, etc, etc.... Only you (and your muse) can make that decision.
Don't try to follow the market because the market will leave you behind. Most books put out by the BIG houses (ie: NY pubs) were bought a year ago or more. The editors may be looking for something completely different now. So, write what you love and hopefully someday you'll be blessed to share it with others.
STEPS in WRITING:
1. Choose your POV
2. Let an idea gel in your mind
3. Research as necessary to get started
4. WRITE!
That's how you begin. But we aren't done! There are a lot of traps and tricks along the way. I don't know them all, honestly. Writing is one of those careers where you are constantly learning and honing your craft. However, I will continue to share what I do know....or think I know. ;) Hopefully, some of my fellow writers will come out to play as well.
Any questions? Please ask! I'll give it my best shot.
Well, honestly, I don't often feel that I have much of a choice. The "Muse" makes that decision for me. No, I am not insane. 'She' is my inspiration...the one that takes an idea and runs with it through time until the perfect people are created; the perfect time decided upon; the perfect conflict crafted; etc.
The MUSE is inspiration, and I honestly believe it's something only true writers have. Is it an entity? An overactive imagination? Maybe both?
If you aren't a writer, this makes no sense and you are currently wondering about my mental stability. Like I mentioned before -- I am sane, or as sane as any writer gets. ;)
So, I write what I'm inspired to write. Romance. You may not like romance...then chances are good you won't want to write it. I don't care for science fiction that much except for an occasional Star Trek episode/movie. But I do love paranormal fiction.
Words of wisdom: "Don't write what you know -- write what you love."
Of course you have to do the research if you aren't familiar with aspects of the story -- such as the setting; the time period; a specific occupation one of your main characters has. Research is an important tool to any writer. Get the facts straight or someone, somewhere will catch you...then it'll really hit the fan! ESPECIALLY if you want to write a historical novel. Do not try to fudge your way through history...unless you're creating your own version for a fantasy...because those readers can be very unforgiving.
It all boils down to this: What do you tend to read? What kind of stories draw you in deep and don't let go until that last page is turned? THOSE should be the stories that you write. Whether they be mysteries, sci-fi, young adult adventure, fantasy, etc, etc.... Only you (and your muse) can make that decision.
Don't try to follow the market because the market will leave you behind. Most books put out by the BIG houses (ie: NY pubs) were bought a year ago or more. The editors may be looking for something completely different now. So, write what you love and hopefully someday you'll be blessed to share it with others.
STEPS in WRITING:
1. Choose your POV
2. Let an idea gel in your mind
3. Research as necessary to get started
4. WRITE!
That's how you begin. But we aren't done! There are a lot of traps and tricks along the way. I don't know them all, honestly. Writing is one of those careers where you are constantly learning and honing your craft. However, I will continue to share what I do know....or think I know. ;) Hopefully, some of my fellow writers will come out to play as well.
Any questions? Please ask! I'll give it my best shot.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Point of View
Point of View is one of those somewhat sticky subjects in the writing world. Like religion, politics or whether cats or dogs make better pets...many writers have very clear ideas about POV.
First off, what is it? Well, honestly, this may sound like a stupid question to some, but I believe there's no such thing as a stupid question. (Um, for the most part.)
Some of us do NOT know what POV is or why it matters. When I wrote my first novel -- a 400+ page tome of historical romance, anguish and head-hopping melodrama (cringe) -- I knew nothing about Point of View. And you could tell by reading that story. Hey, it would've made a great travelogue! ;)
POV, as we call it, is the viewpoint from which a story is told. There is first person: "I", "me", "my", etc...which is popular in most of the chick-lit genre; third person: the one I prefer to read and write; and omniscient ... in other words, the all-seeing narrator or 'God', if you will.
Some writers and editors are POV purists. They insist on one POV per scene OR chapter. Using more than one POV in this way is commonly known as 'head-hopping'. To be honest, you'll find more head-hopping than not in most widely published novels today. Particularly in the romance genre. Especially by those with the Big Names.
The Evils of Head-hopping
or... "If so-and-so can get away with it, why the hell can't I??"
The reason you might not be able to head-hop your way through your first novel is, again, simple:
1. Because 'so-and-so' has been around (as in multi-pubbed) for a while...
2. Does it well so no one cares...
3. Is a good enough writer in general that many sins can be forgiven...
4. All of the above.
If you insist on writing it your way -- I say, "Go for it!" But for all our sakes, do it right! The biggest arguments I've heard for avoiding the ping-pong match of flitting from one character's head to another are as follows:
*The reader loses track of who is thinking, feeling, or saying 'whatever' from one paragraph or page to the next. Nothing is more annoying than having to retrace your steps, go back in a book and figure who the heck is talking! It's not only a nuisance, but it pulls your reader right out of the story.
**It's sometimes difficult to 'identify' with a character if you don't spend enough time in their thoughts...feeling and sharing their emotions. If you only get snippets of the heroine's feelings before you jump into the hero's, your reader may have a hard time connecting and/or caring. If they don't connect/care, then they may lost interest in the story. NOT good.
***Sometimes, you can get a stiff neck (mentally) trying to keep up with all the ping-ponging. Sounds silly, but it's true. Nothing gives me a worse headache than trying to keep track of who's saying what to whom over the course of a 200-300+ page novel.
Okay, so what to do?
First, you need to decide what type of POV works best for what you're writing. Then decide up-front how you're going to handle the POV switch -- if you have one. Obviously, in a first-person narrative, you won't have that problem.
Believe me, I can tell you from experience that it's a lot easier to make that decision from page one then to have to go back and edit the entire book. I've done it and it stinks. I have one terrific writer friend who tried to 'fix' his first novel -- a head-hopper -- and gave up. He's in the process of re-writing it completely.
Basic *Rules* of POV:
1. Only 'show' or 'tell' things that the POV character can actually experience/see/feel/know. Don't have your heroine stare at herself in the mirror so she can think about her beauty -- or lack there0f. She'll lose a lot of sympathy right there. Don't make your hero a mind-reader who can decipher every thought or emotion on the heroine's face ... well, unless it's a paranormal story and he can really read minds. ;)
2. Avoid omniscient POV at all costs. It gets old, folks, and most of us don't like it much.
3. Again, decide how to break up the POV if you're going with third-person. I like to use scene changes and chapter breaks. But make up your mind and try to stick with the plan. Revision is available, but it isn't always a picnic.
4. In the end, thumb your nose at the *RULES* and head-hop away! Just do it well.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
So you want to be a writer?
The holidays are over ... um, somewhat. It's kind of hard to get the children back in the groove of things when there are so many new games to play and the tree is still up. But for me, personally, it's time to put nose to grindstone -- butt in chair; fingers to keyboard -- and get cracking! I have to get this book, DREAM WALK, done. It's been way too long a work in progress...and since I finally have my paranormal world figured out, I need to let these two would-be lovers fight their demons (literal and figurative) and find their happy ever after.
But first .... on to my promised 'lessons'. I'll start with a question I was asked at my recent book signing:
How do you get started writing?
That one is kind of tough. I feel you need at least two things to begin your career as a writer:
1. Talent
2. An idea
Let's take the second one first:
Where do ideas come from? Well, for me, they can come from anywhere. The lyrics of a song. Another book, a movie or play. A 'what if?' question that pops into my head. A lot of ideas come from the age old past-time of people-watching. No, I'm not talking about peeping Tom here...I just mean sitting in a public place or event and watching the people around you. Everyone has a story -- most probably wouldn't make for a great adventurous novel -- but add a little imagination to the mix and you just might find an idea germinating.
Now for the hard part:
Talent, well, there's somewhat of a debate there. Are writer's born or made? Many have strong feelings on either side. I feel it's a bit of both. However, if you aren't 'born' with the writing gift or inclination, no amount of tutoring is going to turn you into the next Nora Roberts or Stephen King. (Let's face it, there probably will never be another King.)
Writing has to come from within. There has to be a storyteller lying in wait inside your brain -- a voice that 'speaks' to you and demands you write it all down. Some say there is a fine line between the insane and writers. I say there's not much of a line at all. ;) But as long as the voices aren't telling you that you're God or that someone (except a fictional character) needs to die, you're probably as sane as any writer can get.
In my not so humble opinion, if you have the urge to tell stories...if your imagination goes into overdrive anytime you see a glove on the side of a road or hear sirens in the distance... if you really and truly desire to write, then you can learn to do just that.
But how do you learn? Hopefully you paid attention in English classes -- no, you don't need to conjugate verbs or identify participles, thank goodness -- but you do need to understand and make use of basic grammar, punctuation, etc. Then you have to feel free enough...and be good enough...to break those rules in the process. At least some of them.
Writing...good, strong writing...comes from years of doing two things: reading & writing.
Sounds trite? Too easy? Think again. You don't copy what others do, but you learn from their mistakes and their triumphs. If you read a scene in a book that sweeps you away -- figure out what it is that makes it so. Is it the use of verbs? The description? The dialogue? How is it unique or special to you?
If you read a novel that you just want to heave against the wall (yes, I have actually done this, but I won't tell who the author was) -- decipher those emotions as well.
Writers must constantly grow, learn and hone their craft. If they stop; the writing suffers. Read the classics you ignored during school. Get a word-a-day calendar and make yourself increase your vocabulary. If you hear or read a great metaphor or simile, make note of it. Words are your paint and the more you know, the more vibrant your writing can become.
So... do you still want to try? Do you have determination? A thick skin? Are the voices in your head clamoring for their turn? Then sit down, put you fingers to the keyboard and WRITE!
Don't worry about being perfect at the start -- chances are, you won't be. But if you don't write something, ANYTHING, your dream ends here.
Follow your dream and hold on tight. It's bound to be a bumpy ride.
**Next time: What is point of view?**
But first .... on to my promised 'lessons'. I'll start with a question I was asked at my recent book signing:
How do you get started writing?
That one is kind of tough. I feel you need at least two things to begin your career as a writer:
1. Talent
2. An idea
Let's take the second one first:
Where do ideas come from? Well, for me, they can come from anywhere. The lyrics of a song. Another book, a movie or play. A 'what if?' question that pops into my head. A lot of ideas come from the age old past-time of people-watching. No, I'm not talking about peeping Tom here...I just mean sitting in a public place or event and watching the people around you. Everyone has a story -- most probably wouldn't make for a great adventurous novel -- but add a little imagination to the mix and you just might find an idea germinating.
Now for the hard part:
Talent, well, there's somewhat of a debate there. Are writer's born or made? Many have strong feelings on either side. I feel it's a bit of both. However, if you aren't 'born' with the writing gift or inclination, no amount of tutoring is going to turn you into the next Nora Roberts or Stephen King. (Let's face it, there probably will never be another King.)
Writing has to come from within. There has to be a storyteller lying in wait inside your brain -- a voice that 'speaks' to you and demands you write it all down. Some say there is a fine line between the insane and writers. I say there's not much of a line at all. ;) But as long as the voices aren't telling you that you're God or that someone (except a fictional character) needs to die, you're probably as sane as any writer can get.
In my not so humble opinion, if you have the urge to tell stories...if your imagination goes into overdrive anytime you see a glove on the side of a road or hear sirens in the distance... if you really and truly desire to write, then you can learn to do just that.
But how do you learn? Hopefully you paid attention in English classes -- no, you don't need to conjugate verbs or identify participles, thank goodness -- but you do need to understand and make use of basic grammar, punctuation, etc. Then you have to feel free enough...and be good enough...to break those rules in the process. At least some of them.
Writing...good, strong writing...comes from years of doing two things: reading & writing.
Sounds trite? Too easy? Think again. You don't copy what others do, but you learn from their mistakes and their triumphs. If you read a scene in a book that sweeps you away -- figure out what it is that makes it so. Is it the use of verbs? The description? The dialogue? How is it unique or special to you?
If you read a novel that you just want to heave against the wall (yes, I have actually done this, but I won't tell who the author was) -- decipher those emotions as well.
Writers must constantly grow, learn and hone their craft. If they stop; the writing suffers. Read the classics you ignored during school. Get a word-a-day calendar and make yourself increase your vocabulary. If you hear or read a great metaphor or simile, make note of it. Words are your paint and the more you know, the more vibrant your writing can become.
So... do you still want to try? Do you have determination? A thick skin? Are the voices in your head clamoring for their turn? Then sit down, put you fingers to the keyboard and WRITE!
Don't worry about being perfect at the start -- chances are, you won't be. But if you don't write something, ANYTHING, your dream ends here.
Follow your dream and hold on tight. It's bound to be a bumpy ride.
**Next time: What is point of view?**
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Autopsy of a booksigning
First off, let me say that my first booksigning went fairly well -- it was not a rousing success that will establish my career, but I did make a few sales, made a couple of contacts. All in all, it was an interesting night. Out of 18 copies Borders had in stock, I sold a total of five that night. The manager was very enthusiastic and wonderfully nice -- she asked me to come back the weekend before Valentine's Day to give it one more try. :)
Those are the stats...now let's tear the night apart, dig in and see what really happened.
Thank goodness for friends!
One tip that I followed from a fellow writer was to print out little pamphlets regarding my book, SECRETS AND SHADOWS, to pass out to possible customers. It may bring in another sale or two, we'll see. I am glad, however, that I had those and my homemade bookmarks & business cards on hand.
THE EXPECTED:
Two things that did NOT surprise me: a couple of older gentleman stopped and asked what the book was about. When I mentioned romantic suspense, they immediately lost interest. LOL! Which, honestly, is a little sad. I strongly believe that any man who is interested in how women feel, think and approach a loving relationship should read at least one well-written romance novel. Seriously guys, it would save you a lot of grief.
The second unsurprising occurrence: the number of people who hurried by, avoided direct eye-contact and basically went out of their way (or my way) to enter the bookstore. LOL!
Trust me, folks -- I am not going tackle you and try to mind-control and/or guilt you into buying my novel. Really. For one thing, I haven't the foggiest how to do that -- otherwise my children would be much better behaved 24/7 AND my book would be with a big NY pub like Ballantine or Kensington. I love Samhain, don't get me wrong, but we all know where the bigger bucks are, don't we? ;)
The Unexpected:
One thing that did surprise me, however, were the number of people who seemed in awe of me. Just because I had written and had a book published. I felt a bit like a celebrity...actually, I felt like I was somehow impersonating a celebrity. I felt a little...guilty? Out of place?
It could have been my 'power suit' or my sudden and instant 'in the spotlight' status that created those feelings. Or it could have been the three young people -- two teenage boys, one girl -- who all had questions about writing. How do you do it? What's the process? How do you get published?
This is where I had to start thinking fast and talking like .... well, like I knew what the heck I was talking about.
Yes, I suppose I am now an 'expert' of sorts. I am published, so I must be doing something right, somewhere. And yes, if I really think about it, I can give advice -- which I did that night -- and I can maybe teach others a thing or two about the process and the mechanics of writing a novel.
But I am more of a natural writer. In other words, I sit down and the words flow. I don't stop to think about conjugating verbs or whether this is a metaphor or simile...yes, I often leave participles dangling **GASP!** and I still don't catch it until some more grammar-oriented person points it out.
Conclusion:
I've decided for the good of the few ... at least those few young souls (or the young at heart) who truly desire to write but do not know how to begin ... I've decided to give this rather mediocre blog a more positive direction. I've decided to share my insights into the written word. I'll start by trying to answer -- in my most humble way -- those questions asked me by the eager and very flattering young men and woman at that booksigning.
How do you start?
What's the writing process?
What do you do from there?
So, if you want to learn at least as much as I, personally, can teach you, come back frequently. Writing takes time, patience, work, a thick skin, and perseverance. If you really, really want to reach the goal of publication, those are the qualities you must possess or strive to obtain.
A good dose of talent doesn't hurt, either. ;)
Those are the stats...now let's tear the night apart, dig in and see what really happened.
Thank goodness for friends!
One tip that I followed from a fellow writer was to print out little pamphlets regarding my book, SECRETS AND SHADOWS, to pass out to possible customers. It may bring in another sale or two, we'll see. I am glad, however, that I had those and my homemade bookmarks & business cards on hand.
THE EXPECTED:
Two things that did NOT surprise me: a couple of older gentleman stopped and asked what the book was about. When I mentioned romantic suspense, they immediately lost interest. LOL! Which, honestly, is a little sad. I strongly believe that any man who is interested in how women feel, think and approach a loving relationship should read at least one well-written romance novel. Seriously guys, it would save you a lot of grief.
The second unsurprising occurrence: the number of people who hurried by, avoided direct eye-contact and basically went out of their way (or my way) to enter the bookstore. LOL!
Trust me, folks -- I am not going tackle you and try to mind-control and/or guilt you into buying my novel. Really. For one thing, I haven't the foggiest how to do that -- otherwise my children would be much better behaved 24/7 AND my book would be with a big NY pub like Ballantine or Kensington. I love Samhain, don't get me wrong, but we all know where the bigger bucks are, don't we? ;)
The Unexpected:
One thing that did surprise me, however, were the number of people who seemed in awe of me. Just because I had written and had a book published. I felt a bit like a celebrity...actually, I felt like I was somehow impersonating a celebrity. I felt a little...guilty? Out of place?
It could have been my 'power suit' or my sudden and instant 'in the spotlight' status that created those feelings. Or it could have been the three young people -- two teenage boys, one girl -- who all had questions about writing. How do you do it? What's the process? How do you get published?
This is where I had to start thinking fast and talking like .... well, like I knew what the heck I was talking about.
Yes, I suppose I am now an 'expert' of sorts. I am published, so I must be doing something right, somewhere. And yes, if I really think about it, I can give advice -- which I did that night -- and I can maybe teach others a thing or two about the process and the mechanics of writing a novel.
But I am more of a natural writer. In other words, I sit down and the words flow. I don't stop to think about conjugating verbs or whether this is a metaphor or simile...yes, I often leave participles dangling **GASP!** and I still don't catch it until some more grammar-oriented person points it out.
Conclusion:
I've decided for the good of the few ... at least those few young souls (or the young at heart) who truly desire to write but do not know how to begin ... I've decided to give this rather mediocre blog a more positive direction. I've decided to share my insights into the written word. I'll start by trying to answer -- in my most humble way -- those questions asked me by the eager and very flattering young men and woman at that booksigning.
How do you start?
What's the writing process?
What do you do from there?
So, if you want to learn at least as much as I, personally, can teach you, come back frequently. Writing takes time, patience, work, a thick skin, and perseverance. If you really, really want to reach the goal of publication, those are the qualities you must possess or strive to obtain.
A good dose of talent doesn't hurt, either. ;)
Another meme
Here's another list courtesy of my friend and colleague, Laura Hamby. The things I've done are in bold...some with further explanations attached. ;)
1. Used real snow to make/eat a snow cone -- Yes, with Kool-aid
2. Slept in you car while parked at the side of the road
3. Didn't go to bed until 4 in the morning on New Year's Day
4. Dyed an Easter egg, using all the colors available
5. Catch a scent on the air that reminded you of something from your childhood
6. Taken a picture of the sky because it was a remarkable shade of blue that day
7. Caught a fish and cleaned it yourself, then cooked it for dinner
8. Wished you bought two pairs of your favorite shoes -- Orange sandals with sparkly, sequined flowers...I love them and they're wearing out. :(
9. Made a list like this
10. Taken art lessons -- In college -- loved it!
11. Taken ballet lessons -- As a child -- hated it! LOL!
12. Driven a really scary stretch of road
13. Read a book from cover to cover in one sitting -- More than once. ;)
14. Written a letter to your Congressman
15. Changed political parties
16. Made a boat yourself, and sailed in it
17. Worn mismatched shoes by accident
18. Been so happy you wanted to burst into song -- And did so! Many times. ;)
19. Watched Barney, as an adult, without becoming annoyed -- When the show first began and I watched with youngest two children. Not sure I could do it now.
20. Thought you could walk to Sesame Street -- As a child, I so wanted to go to Sesame Street!
21. Invented something
22. Came up with a new recipe -- really just a variation of another recipe.
23. Snorkeled or dived a coral reef
24. Been in a shark cage
25. Been told that a character in a Nora Roberts book reminded a friend of you
26. Howled in the car with your kids -- Yes, but only during a full moon, naturally.
27. Loved someone so much your heart hurt
28. Painted a house
29. Painted a picture in the style of a famous painter
30. Seen the Mona Lisa
31. Seen the Hope Diamond
32. Been the president of the PTA
33. Sat on Santa's lap...as an adult -- Actually, I was 17 -- it that adult enough? :)
34. Lost your spouse
35. Driven a race car
36. Eaten fried okra
37. Climbed Mt. Everest
38. Seen Mt. Rushmore
39. Saved a baby bird that had fallen from its nest
40. Tried a food you always thought was gross and discovered you loved it -- Yep, Guacamole.
41. Been to Hawaii
42. Been to Africa
42. Had an "old-time" picture taken with your family, your friends or alone -- At Pigeon Forge, Tenn., now Dollywood. LOL! My mom still has the tin-type.
43. Made good friends via the Internet -- Oh, yes! Most my good friends are IM buddies. :)
44. Met a movie star
45. Seen the Queen of England in person
46. Indulged in a tinsel fight while decorating the Christmas tree
47. Attended a family reunion
48. Couldn't turn out the lights for the night after reading a Stephen King novel -- The Stand...the summer after I graduated high school.
49. Gone on a cruise
50. Can you remember where you where the day the Challenger exploded? -- Vividly... English Lit., during college. Saw it replay in the student lounge.
1. Used real snow to make/eat a snow cone -- Yes, with Kool-aid
2. Slept in you car while parked at the side of the road
3. Didn't go to bed until 4 in the morning on New Year's Day
4. Dyed an Easter egg, using all the colors available
5. Catch a scent on the air that reminded you of something from your childhood
6. Taken a picture of the sky because it was a remarkable shade of blue that day
7. Caught a fish and cleaned it yourself, then cooked it for dinner
8. Wished you bought two pairs of your favorite shoes -- Orange sandals with sparkly, sequined flowers...I love them and they're wearing out. :(
9. Made a list like this
10. Taken art lessons -- In college -- loved it!
11. Taken ballet lessons -- As a child -- hated it! LOL!
12. Driven a really scary stretch of road
13. Read a book from cover to cover in one sitting -- More than once. ;)
14. Written a letter to your Congressman
15. Changed political parties
16. Made a boat yourself, and sailed in it
17. Worn mismatched shoes by accident
18. Been so happy you wanted to burst into song -- And did so! Many times. ;)
19. Watched Barney, as an adult, without becoming annoyed -- When the show first began and I watched with youngest two children. Not sure I could do it now.
20. Thought you could walk to Sesame Street -- As a child, I so wanted to go to Sesame Street!
21. Invented something
22. Came up with a new recipe -- really just a variation of another recipe.
23. Snorkeled or dived a coral reef
24. Been in a shark cage
25. Been told that a character in a Nora Roberts book reminded a friend of you
26. Howled in the car with your kids -- Yes, but only during a full moon, naturally.
27. Loved someone so much your heart hurt
28. Painted a house
29. Painted a picture in the style of a famous painter
30. Seen the Mona Lisa
31. Seen the Hope Diamond
32. Been the president of the PTA
33. Sat on Santa's lap...as an adult -- Actually, I was 17 -- it that adult enough? :)
34. Lost your spouse
35. Driven a race car
36. Eaten fried okra
37. Climbed Mt. Everest
38. Seen Mt. Rushmore
39. Saved a baby bird that had fallen from its nest
40. Tried a food you always thought was gross and discovered you loved it -- Yep, Guacamole.
41. Been to Hawaii
42. Been to Africa
42. Had an "old-time" picture taken with your family, your friends or alone -- At Pigeon Forge, Tenn., now Dollywood. LOL! My mom still has the tin-type.
43. Made good friends via the Internet -- Oh, yes! Most my good friends are IM buddies. :)
44. Met a movie star
45. Seen the Queen of England in person
46. Indulged in a tinsel fight while decorating the Christmas tree
47. Attended a family reunion
48. Couldn't turn out the lights for the night after reading a Stephen King novel -- The Stand...the summer after I graduated high school.
49. Gone on a cruise
50. Can you remember where you where the day the Challenger exploded? -- Vividly... English Lit., during college. Saw it replay in the student lounge.
Friday, December 15, 2006
Words of wisdom
This was passed along by a friend...it's a long list, but one worth reading.
Lessons in Life By Regina Brett The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio
To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons lifetaught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. Myodometer rolls over to 50 this week, so here's an update:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don'tworry; God never blinks.
16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.
17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.
18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the secondone is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don'ttake no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancylingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In fiveyears, will this matter?"
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Yourfriends will. Stay in touch.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anythingyou did or didn't do.
35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.
38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyoneelse's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
45. The best is yet to come.
46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
48. If you don't ask, you don't get.
49. Yield.
50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.
Since I'm(Deborah Brent) now 52 I have 2 more to add to the list.
51. It is easier to ask for forgiveness than ask forpermission. (I learned this from one of my local churchleaders.)
52. From <http://www.mayaange lou.com/ShortBio .html> MayaAngelou I learned just because I'm in pain I don't have to beone."A REAL FRIEND IS ONE WHO WALKS IN WHEN THE REST OF THE WORLD WALKS OUT"
Lessons in Life By Regina Brett The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio
To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons lifetaught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. Myodometer rolls over to 50 this week, so here's an update:
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don'tworry; God never blinks.
16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.
17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.
18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the secondone is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don'ttake no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancylingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In fiveyears, will this matter?"
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Yourfriends will. Stay in touch.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anythingyou did or didn't do.
35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.
38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyoneelse's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
45. The best is yet to come.
46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
48. If you don't ask, you don't get.
49. Yield.
50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.
Since I'm(Deborah Brent) now 52 I have 2 more to add to the list.
51. It is easier to ask for forgiveness than ask forpermission. (I learned this from one of my local churchleaders.)
52. From <http://www.mayaange lou.com/ShortBio .html> MayaAngelou I learned just because I'm in pain I don't have to beone."A REAL FRIEND IS ONE WHO WALKS IN WHEN THE REST OF THE WORLD WALKS OUT"
Monday, December 11, 2006
Booksigning
I'm having my very first booksigning!
When: Friday, Dec. 15th, from 6-9 p.m.
Where: Borders Express, Clearview Mall, Butler, PA.
For: Secrets and Shadows (Now in Print!)
If you happen to be in the area, stop in and say 'Hi!'
Books make great holiday gifts, by the way. Just thought I'd throw that out there. ;)
When: Friday, Dec. 15th, from 6-9 p.m.
Where: Borders Express, Clearview Mall, Butler, PA.
For: Secrets and Shadows (Now in Print!)
If you happen to be in the area, stop in and say 'Hi!'
Books make great holiday gifts, by the way. Just thought I'd throw that out there. ;)
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
We got angst...grab a bucket!
I have two teenagers at home. Females. Yeah, I hear the women snickering and the men flinching at those words. Can we say: Angst by the Boat load? Grab a bucket, folks, it's time to bale!
Now I also have an 11 year-old son who has sprouted pit hair -- this knowledge thanks to his big sisters -- and is showing all the signs of also hitting that horrific time in anyone's life. Puberty.
I shudder at the mere thought, believe me.
His voice is cracking...he's growing an inch a month...his feet are now bigger than mine...and he sweats like, well, like a guy. Luckily (knock on wood) he has NOT discovered the complex attraction of male to female. Just shoot me when that happens. Please.
Truly, I am enjoying watching my children grow and change. I rejoice in seeing them make good decisions -- and apologizing when they make rather stupid ones. I enjoy seeing them as more 'equal' than as the tiny humans I had to do everything for. Now they can do for me.
And the angst? Yeah, well, it's like revisiting my own teen years. The whining...the moping...the certainty that MY zit is really the most hideous zit to ever appear on anyone's face. Their insecurities take me right back to my own.
Now I can look back, laugh and shrug my shoulders. Did I ever really think such trivial things were "The End"? Yep. Sure did. With all the melodrama involved. And yes, I can tell them -- someday you'll see that this really does NOT matter. But they don't believe that. Just like I didn't.
SIGH
My mother sat across from me at lunch recently as I complained about life with teens and pre-teens and began to laugh hysterically. She pointed a finger at me, this somewhat evil grin on her face and said: "Pay back is sweet!"
I was shocked. Then I laughed. So true...I just can't wait until the day when I can say the same to my kids.
Now I also have an 11 year-old son who has sprouted pit hair -- this knowledge thanks to his big sisters -- and is showing all the signs of also hitting that horrific time in anyone's life. Puberty.
I shudder at the mere thought, believe me.
His voice is cracking...he's growing an inch a month...his feet are now bigger than mine...and he sweats like, well, like a guy. Luckily (knock on wood) he has NOT discovered the complex attraction of male to female. Just shoot me when that happens. Please.
Truly, I am enjoying watching my children grow and change. I rejoice in seeing them make good decisions -- and apologizing when they make rather stupid ones. I enjoy seeing them as more 'equal' than as the tiny humans I had to do everything for. Now they can do for me.
And the angst? Yeah, well, it's like revisiting my own teen years. The whining...the moping...the certainty that MY zit is really the most hideous zit to ever appear on anyone's face. Their insecurities take me right back to my own.
Now I can look back, laugh and shrug my shoulders. Did I ever really think such trivial things were "The End"? Yep. Sure did. With all the melodrama involved. And yes, I can tell them -- someday you'll see that this really does NOT matter. But they don't believe that. Just like I didn't.
SIGH
My mother sat across from me at lunch recently as I complained about life with teens and pre-teens and began to laugh hysterically. She pointed a finger at me, this somewhat evil grin on her face and said: "Pay back is sweet!"
I was shocked. Then I laughed. So true...I just can't wait until the day when I can say the same to my kids.
Monday, December 04, 2006
Another meme ;)
I learned one thing from this particular 'meme' -- I really need to get out more. ;) The things I've done are in bold.
01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said “I love you” and meant it
09. Hugged a tree-------for photo purposes only :o)
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game (and survived the crush afterwards)
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby’s diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your CDs
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Played touch football
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an “expert”
83. Got flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Kissed on the first date
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one/both of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror
96. Raised children
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn’t have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Touched a stingray
110. Broken someone’s heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a facial part pierced other than your ears
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Touched a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey
135. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147. Been a DJ
148. Shaved your head
149. Caused a car accident
150. Saved someone’s life
Copy and paste it to your own blog, hi-liting the things you've done!
01. Bought everyone in the bar a drink
02. Swam with wild dolphins
03. Climbed a mountain
04. Taken a Ferrari for a test drive
05. Been inside the Great Pyramid
06. Held a tarantula
07. Taken a candlelit bath with someone
08. Said “I love you” and meant it
09. Hugged a tree-------for photo purposes only :o)
10. Bungee jumped
11. Visited Paris
12. Watched a lightning storm at sea
13. Stayed up all night long and saw the sun rise
14. Seen the Northern Lights
15. Gone to a huge sports game (and survived the crush afterwards)
16. Walked the stairs to the top of the leaning Tower of Pisa
17. Grown and eaten your own vegetables
18. Touched an iceberg
19. Slept under the stars
20. Changed a baby’s diaper
21. Taken a trip in a hot air balloon
22. Watched a meteor shower
23. Gotten drunk on champagne
24. Given more than you can afford to charity
25. Looked up at the night sky through a telescope
26. Had an uncontrollable giggling fit at the worst possible moment
27. Had a food fight
28. Bet on a winning horse
29. Asked out a stranger
30. Had a snowball fight
31. Screamed as loudly as you possibly can
32. Held a lamb
33. Seen a total eclipse
34. Ridden a roller coaster
35. Hit a home run
36. Danced like a fool and not cared who was looking
37. Adopted an accent for an entire day
38. Actually felt happy about your life, even for just a moment
39. Had two hard drives for your computer
40. Visited all 50 states
41. Taken care of someone who was drunk
42. Had amazing friends
43. Danced with a stranger in a foreign country
44. Watched wild whales
45. Stolen a sign
46. Backpacked in Europe
47. Taken a road-trip
48. Gone rock climbing
49. Midnight walk on the beach
50. Gone sky diving
51. Visited Ireland
52. Been heartbroken longer than you were actually in love
53. In a restaurant, sat at a stranger’s table and had a meal with them
54. Visited Japan
55. Milked a cow
56. Alphabetized your CDs
57. Pretended to be a superhero
58. Sung karaoke
59. Lounged around in bed all day
60. Played touch football
61. Gone scuba diving
62. Kissed in the rain
63. Played in the mud
64. Played in the rain
65. Gone to a drive-in theater
66. Visited the Great Wall of China
67. Started a business
68. Fallen in love and not had your heart broken
69. Toured ancient sites
70. Taken a martial arts class
71. Played D&D for more than 6 hours straight
72. Gotten married
73. Been in a movie
74. Crashed a party
75. Gotten divorced
76. Gone without food for 5 days
77. Made cookies from scratch
78. Won first prize in a costume contest
79. Ridden a gondola in Venice
80. Gotten a tattoo
81. Rafted the Snake River
82. Been on television news programs as an “expert”
83. Got flowers for no reason
84. Performed on stage
85. Been to Las Vegas
86. Recorded music
87. Eaten shark
88. Kissed on the first date
89. Gone to Thailand
90. Bought a house
91. Been in a combat zone
92. Buried one/both of your parents
93. Been on a cruise ship
94. Spoken more than one language fluently
95. Performed in Rocky Horror
96. Raised children
97. Followed your favorite band/singer on tour
99. Taken an exotic bicycle tour in a foreign country
100. Picked up and moved to another city to just start over
101. Walked the Golden Gate Bridge
102. Sang loudly in the car, and didn’t stop when you knew someone was looking
103. Had plastic surgery
104. Survived an accident that you shouldn’t have survived
105. Wrote articles for a large publication
106. Lost over 100 pounds
107. Held someone while they were having a flashback
108. Piloted an airplane
109. Touched a stingray
110. Broken someone’s heart
111. Helped an animal give birth
112. Won money on a T.V. game show
113. Broken a bone
114. Gone on an African photo safari
115. Had a facial part pierced other than your ears
116. Fired a rifle, shotgun, or pistol
117. Eaten mushrooms that were gathered in the wild
118. Ridden a horse
119. Had major surgery
120. Had a snake as a pet
121. Hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon
122. Slept for more than 30 hours over the course of 48 hours
123. Visited more foreign countries than U.S. states
124. Visited all 7 continents
125. Taken a canoe trip that lasted more than 2 days
126. Eaten kangaroo meat
127. Eaten sushi
128. Had your picture in the newspaper
129. Changed someone’s mind about something you care deeply about
130. Gone back to school
131. Parasailed
132. Touched a cockroach
133. Eaten fried green tomatoes
134. Read The Iliad - and the Odyssey
135. Selected one “important” author who you missed in school, and read
136. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
137. Skipped all your school reunions
138. Communicated with someone without sharing a common spoken language
139. Been elected to public office
140. Written your own computer language
141. Thought to yourself that you’re living your dream
142. Had to put someone you love into hospice care
143. Built your own PC from parts
144. Sold your own artwork to someone who didn’t know you
145. Had a booth at a street fair
146. Dyed your hair
147. Been a DJ
148. Shaved your head
149. Caused a car accident
150. Saved someone’s life
Copy and paste it to your own blog, hi-liting the things you've done!
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Five Things you might not know about me...
Diane Craver tagged me, so I guess it's my turn to fess up. ;) In the process, I'll tag my fellow authors Tori Scott and Laura Hamby -- two friends who write very different and wonderful romances. You're it, ladies! ;)
Five Things You Might not Know About Me:
1. Some of my previous career aspirations included: astronaut, astronomer, and fashion model. The latter I gave up on when I stopped growing at 5'6". ;)
2. I played Sally Brown my senior year in our school's production of the musical: SNOOPY!!! (Yes, I still have the costume.)
3. If I had had a bit more drive and courage, I would've loved to be a professional actress. While I'm shy in public, I come alive on stage. I think that talent helps me tremendously in my writing.
4. I cannot go to the movies without a box of Snowcaps in hand.
5. Many years ago -- back in high school, I believe -- I had a huge crush on Barry Manilow. Yes, I hear the snickering...but it's true. The man has a wonderful voice and gorgeous eyes. ;)
Five Things You Might not Know About Me:
1. Some of my previous career aspirations included: astronaut, astronomer, and fashion model. The latter I gave up on when I stopped growing at 5'6". ;)
2. I played Sally Brown my senior year in our school's production of the musical: SNOOPY!!! (Yes, I still have the costume.)
3. If I had had a bit more drive and courage, I would've loved to be a professional actress. While I'm shy in public, I come alive on stage. I think that talent helps me tremendously in my writing.
4. I cannot go to the movies without a box of Snowcaps in hand.
5. Many years ago -- back in high school, I believe -- I had a huge crush on Barry Manilow. Yes, I hear the snickering...but it's true. The man has a wonderful voice and gorgeous eyes. ;)
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Which of the X-Men are you?
| You Are Jean Grey |
 Although your fate is often unknown, you always seem to survive (even after death). Your mind is your greatest weapon, literally! Powers: telepathy and telekinesis, the ability to project thoughts into the mind of others, communication with animals |
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