Creative Endeavors

2011-06-10T12:58:00.000-07:00

Epiphanies come at the most unusual and unexpected times. One happened to me just yesterday. I am a natural teacher. Deep down I've always known it. I guess that was what was so surprising to me. It just jumped out of no where and hit me in the face.
I had been teaching my mother how to use her iPhone and then my sister called wanting to know about blogging, Twittering, and Facebook. I was sharing what I knew about all three and went I got off the phone, I felt really good. I had just taught my sister some things and it felt good to help.
It was then I realized that after I teach a writing class or finish a how-to book or article, I feel the same way. Writing how-to's or teaching and showing people how to do things comes naturally for me. But then I also love learning how to do things. I believe learning and then turning around and teaching what you've learned go hand in hand.
And to be perfectly honest, I love it. Teaching people through classes or writing seems to be my drug of choice. I'll take it. What is yours?
Until next time, keep writing.

2011-02-06T11:16:00.000-08:00

I've almost got the first half of the book to go. Three quick, short interviews and some editing on the computer and it will be ready to go off. I'll be about two weeks early from what my contract reads, but when my editor originally wanted the first half. So.... The second half is going to be a little trickier. I'm working on it, but I think it will probably be more toward the end of March before it gets in instead of the middle of the month.
I am finding the second half is proving problematic because I have been working steadily on the first half. It's not that I'm running out of steam, just tired. I have broken down my chapters in to outlines, pretty detailed, so every day I go in to write I at least have something to research, check out, etc. From the very beginning I gave myself a word count-750 words a day. I typically go over each day, but some days I'm right on.
It's been a challenge. Believe it or not I've learned a lot. Not about my subject per se, but about the writing process in general. It's been good for me and a learning process.
Still plugging away at the women's book. Should have the first story rough drafted today. I've had trouble grappling with that thing. So much research to go through, so much I've wanted to include, but I'm trapped by a word count. Yesterday, I printed off what I had, then deleted the whole thing and started over.
I had a message on this blog asking to give some writing hints, ideas, or tips in my blog. Since I've been teaching, I am a fount of info. So for Emily, here is my writing suggestion or idea for today.
If you don't have time to write long pieces for publication. Start out by writing fillers. A filler is a short piece around 50 words, no longer than 100. These can be tips you can give housewives, parents, grandparents ranging from how to clean the stove top to how to build relationships with friends or family. For marketing these fillers, look in the magazines you read all the time. Eighty percent of all magazines use fillers. Hope this helps.
Until Next Time~
Keep Writing

2011-01-20T16:08:00.000-08:00

Sorry so late in the week posting. Last week and basically the first part of this one has been nightmarish for me. I have been having to work in bits and pieces, running here and there, doing small cut up jobs all the while trying to focus on the task at hand. The Home Based Business book is coming along. I just hit 37,000 words this morning so that's a good sign.
The women's history book is coming, but I need to get in a rhythm. I find I'm going back, rewriting, rewriting, adding stuff, taking it out, rewriting again. I have no flow to the research or writing. What I want to do is strow all this research material out in the floor and spend one complete day doing nothing but going through it. Two or three hours a day doesn't give me time to focus and okay, I'll say it, remember what I read the day before. I've got some tip toeing down memory lane that's going to have to go. I'm at 1800 words in this one article and haven't even gotten halfway through her life, especially not to her biggest cotributions to the state. So....
I was telling my husband next month, my derrier is going to be glued to the chair or perhaps the floor in this case. I will definitely hit my deadline for the home based business book and no doubt have sleepless nights as I'm trying to hit my deadline for the women's history book. I shall do it though, even if I have to stay up all night. Yes, it is like cramming for a final.
Until Next Time~
Keep Writing

2011-01-14T15:13:00.000-08:00

Oops! According to my records, it says I haven't posted since December 30th. I don't think that is correct, but be that as it may. Tada, here I am again. I reached my goal of 30,000. I am one thousand words away from 3500. Cheez, it has been a struggle this past week combined with last week too. Some days nothing goes on and then there are other days when things need to be notarized, doctor appointments, groceries take way too long to get and you have appointments with friends. Don't get me wrong, I love my friends and the things we do together. I hate that everything comes all at once, especially when I'm on a deadline. I try to figure in flex time in all my contracts. Thank goodness I did that. I worked though long enough hours on the days I was able to work this week to be caught up with my words, sooooo.... I'm where I want to be and that's a good thing.
Next week looks more promising. I hope I can squeeze time in for everything I need to do. I am teaching classes now too, so that takes time as well.
Keeping busy is good though. I'd rather be too busy than just sitting around twittling my thumbs. Off to put down some words for my women's history book. I'll write in a few days when I hit 35,000. Then I'll be halfway there.
Til Next time~
Keep Writing

2010-12-30T14:50:00.001-08:00

This will be the last post I make this year. I am looking forward to the New Year and the challenges it will bring. In an effort to get my writing back on track, I have spent this past year on a journey of discovery of sorts. I have learned that with adulthood comes reality and that reality can sometimes hamper the creativity I had as a child. I have learned I love research, well, I've always kind of known that, but when I was doing research for the women's history book, I was absolutely in heaven. And finally, I learned I write better fiction and it comes more easily when I have non-fiction contracts going.
I continue my love affair with writing. I know it is something I am meant to do. I don't always feel like I am very good at it, but it is the one thing I always come back to. I continue to get discouraged, but I have things I want to accomplish, so I'm not going to let depression, disappointment, or discouragement derail me. A friend once told me, "you can feel sorry for yourself for 15 minutes, then stop and move on." I'm working on it. Sometimes I go for 20 minutes. :-)
One thing I do know is I will continue to study and hopefully improve. I am sneaking in reading some writing books in my spare moments. Some days I have to go back and read what I read the day before, but I'm not in a race with anyone. I figure even if I'm a turtle, I'll get to where I want to go eventually.
Got to 25,000 words today. Exact count is 25,043!!!! I wanted to reach this goal by the end of the year. That's in 28 days!!!!!!!!!!!! Not too shabby, if I say so for myself. Have my goals set for this book already for next year, but for those who are interested, here is my entire goal list for 2011.

1) Finish up the Home Based Business Book
2) Lose 60 pounds
3) Complete research on women's history and have 3/4 of that book written by 12/30/11.
4) Complete one of my fiction books-The Grave Hunter series
5) Finish all my crochet and knitting projects currently on hooks and needles.
6) Write a children's book on the state of Oklahoma.
7) Send out three query letters per month.
8) Get two new proposals completed and in the mail.
9) Stay in closer contact with friends.
10) Improve my marketing skills for my books.

Well, there it is. Got a lot to do in 2011. A little nervous, but excited at the same time. The challenges will be enormous, but if I stay focused and do what I am supposed to do every day for 356 days of the year, I'll get there. I have long range goals and my yearly goals are only stepping stones to those bigger ones.
I hope you will set goals and stretch yourself next year. I believe we as humans can really do anything we set our minds to, if we're motivated enough and want it badly enough. I do. How about you?
I'd like to wish you all a Happy New Year and may that new year bring you health, wealth, and may all your goals be attained.

Til Next Time~
Keep Writing

2010-12-24T10:16:00.000-08:00

Good Lordy, good Lordy. I've gotten my words in today. Officially I am at 21,370. I wanted to have 20,000 done by Christmas. Looks like I made it. As I've said before, not sure how many of those will have to be axed, but at least it's something. I wrote a hysterical section this morning. I have an imaginary room, that my painter is giving a bid on. He is supposed to measure the walls and then the floor to get the ceiling square footage. I have decided to have a friend read the section to see if she can understand it. If she can't, it will have to be rewritten. Well, it's going to have to be rewritten anyways, but----
Yesterday, I worked on the women's book outline. Getting ready to tighten it up here in a bit. Want to have that done by the first of the year, so I can get on those two sample chapters.
And yes Nita, I also want to get on the fiction book. You know the one.
After I get my words for all projects today, I'm going to organize this office. There are books, files, Christmas Cards and stacks of papers everywhere. Going to do some journaling too later.
Also for those of you in to crafts, I started knitting myself a hat last night. Should finish it tonight. It's not holidayish, but I'm going to wear it tomorrow anyway.
Off to finish up today. Til the next 5000 words, keep writing.

2010-12-14T14:19:00.000-08:00

Tada! I have made it over 15,000 words. I estimate that about 3,000 of those will have to go, but at least I have something to take away when I need to. As I have been plodding along, I have found that if I work every day, even a little a day, the next day is much easier. I have taken a day off here and there, but if I am doing things around here, I feel guilty because I am NOT in the office getting my words done. The good thing though is, I feel driven to get to my computer and get the words down. I'm also looking at dividing my days to write my non-fiction in the morning and do my fiction in the afternoons. Right now, I haven't stuck to a strict schedule because of the holidays. I've also been trying to get the office organized so I can find things like research for the women's history book, the information I've gathered for the two tour guide books, and handouts for the classes I'm going to be teaching beginning in January. Busy, but that is what I need right now to keep my mind occupied. In the meantime, raise a glass to me. Word count is growing.
Keep Writing!

2010-12-08T13:24:00.001-08:00

Whew! Another week down and I'm over 10,000 words, 11,019 to be exact. I worked over the weekend, but was off yesterday. Today when I started it was a little rough. I think I probably wrote crappola. A writer friend of mine said on the days I write poorly, two weeks later, I won't even be able to tell. Sometimes though I write so poorly I'm sure I'll be able to tell.
Today it seemed as if I was writing the same thing over and over again. I went back, deleted sentences, rewrote them, read others that I used the same words from the previous sentence.
It seems I am writing disaster copy. Ha! You know the kind that comes rushing in and you know once the storm is over, you are going to have to be the one to clean up the mess.
I may have over 11,000 words, but I know 2,000 are going to have to be axed. I guess that's a good thing considering I've only been working on chapter 1. I still have 9 more to go. If I keep progressing like this, I'll have a 90,000 word book when I only need 60,000.
Oh well, it's like an editor once told me, "it's a whole lot easier to cut, than to add." That's what I tell myself at the end of every day.
Until next time~
Keep Writing!

2010-11-23T12:48:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends!
It's been a while since I've blogged. I plan to change that, but that's what I say at least once every six months. I really try to be a "good" writer like the Good Wife tries, but temptation comes and periodically one does get distracted. Yet, here I am. And I have started another book. This one is under contract, so it behooves me to finish it. And I will, but I have to admit, most of the time the thought of a book is totally different than the writing. It gives me comfort though when I read about other authors, well-known, big-name authors, having the same thoughts as me.
I just finished up my word count for this week. The total since Thursday, when I began, is 4702 words. When I received this assignment Wednesday, I sat down with a calendar and decided I could get this book completed if I wrote 700 words a day. This would allow me to even turn it in earlier than my contract will say, which will please my editor. I have completed the Introduction and am in the middle of Chapter One.
Thursday morning when I arrived at my keyboard, I sat for about 45 minutes staring at a blank page with a little blinking cursor. To say I was a somewhat overwhelmed would be an understatement. So, I did what every good writer does when one can't figure out how to begin, I took a shower.
After thirty minutes of warm water running down my back, giving myself a pep talk, and pondering several different openings, I thought I had one that was a winner. Since I didn't have pen or paper, I kept repeating the opening line to myself as I got out and dried off. While I dressed I repeated it. At one point, I almost panicked when I realized the line wasn't exactly what it was in the shower, but just as I was about to brush my teeth for the second time, because I was concentrating on my line, it came to me.
I rushed out of the bathroom and started down the hall. My husband came around the corner and opened his mouth to say something to me. I threw up my hand. I couldn't handle any distractions. "Later," he said as I darted in to my office.
Getting that first line down on paper, I breathed a sigh of relief. Even though my hair was wet and wrapped in a towel, I continued typing. After a couple hours, my writing goal was met for the day. I could spend the afternoon working on research, making charts, or writing quizzes for the book.
By the time day two arrived, I had already grown cocky. I sat down at my keyboard and wrote the most laughable copy in the world. As a matter of fact, several times I stopped writing just to laugh at what I had just written.
"And you call yourself a writer," I muttered as I read through the lines laughing at the word "apoplexy". What did a sudden loss of consciousness and subsequent partial paralysis caused by a broken or blocked artery in the brain have to do with a home based house painting business? I vowed "apoplexy" would be the first word cut when I started editing later that afternoon.
The next morning, I was a little word shy. Amazingly enough though, words flowed smoothly for the next several days. I even made it up over 1000 words yesterday.
Today, was a little more challenging, but I tapped out at 861 total. I worked on a rough outline for the rest of the chapter, so when I start back after Thanksgiving I'll know where I'm headed. I plan to take a few days off, but who knows? If I can't sleep or if I get bored watching my husband watch football, I shall be back at my keyboard.
After all, isn't that what all "good" writers do?

2010-03-24T12:14:00.000-07:00

MARCH/APRIL 2010 NEWSLETTER
Volume 1, Issue 3

QUOTE OF THE MONTH
You cannot plough a field by turning it over in your mind. Author Unknown

MESSAGE FROM DEBORAH

Are you thinking about writing a book? Well, instead of just sitting around thinking about it, get to your computer and start writing.
My daughter used to sit around and complain that she had a book she wanted to write, but she didn’t know when she was going to be able to start. She talked about her job, her volunteer activities, and her continuing education classes. According to her, she had no time left over to work on a book, yet she would easily spend twenty hours a week watching television and doing non-productive activities-chatting on the phone with friends, window shopping, and gazing out the window complaining that she had no time to write.
I’ve thought about many popular writers over the years. Before they got their big breaks, they wrote on trains, planes, on their lunch hours, during recess breaks, before or after their children go to bed. I’m sure all of them had NO time, but yet they found it.
“People make time for the things that are important to them,” I told my daughter. “If you really want to write, you’ll find some time. Besides, you don’t need hours upon end. Carry a notebook around with you and when you have a few minutes, jot down some notes. Find 15 minutes a day to devote to your writing, set a timer if you have to, but for those 15 minutes all you do is write.”
Needless to say, she wasn’t pleased with my interjecting some common sense in to her dilemma, but after an hour of pouting she decided to take my advice. She is now over half-way through writing her book. I’ve looked over it and it has potential.
Because writing and publishing is such a subjective business, I think everyone has potential. Sitting around and talking about writing a book will NOT get it written. And to sell a book, a book must be written.
So, what are you waiting for? Find your fifteen minutes and get to writing.

NEW PLACES TO EXPLORE ON THE WWW

Writers Beware Blog http://accrispin.blogspot.com/ If you are an author and you don’t have this website marked in your favorites, navigate off this page and go bookmark it now. This site keeps writers up-to-date on scams, shams, and lawsuits. The Sci-Fi Writers and Mystery Writers have joined forces to gather information and disclose things going on behind the scenes of publishing. So, if you want to be in the “know”, read this blog on a regularly basis.

FUN PRODUCTS FOR WRITERS

If you are interested in writing screenplays, check out The Writer’s Store at www.writersstore.com. Here you will find over 1000 products with software, books, supplies, course and seminar listings to jumpstart your screenwriting career. Those who are interested in furthering their writing skills will find books and CDs as well. If you are looking for some fun and inspiration, check out the dolls, ties, hats and more offered on this site. As a side note, this is not just a website. The Writer’s Store brick and mortar building is located on Westwood in Hollywood, California.

A MARKET FOR YOU

For you history buffs out there, I thought I would remind you of Renaissance Magazine. It was established in 1996 and has a readership of 33,000. It is looking for essays, expose, historical, how-to, interview, opinion, travel and more geared toward its readership. The publication accepts queries or complete manuscript. Length desired for manuscript is 1,000 to 5,000 words. Pays 8¢ per word. The publication is 90% freelance written. Website is www.renaissancemagazine.com. Contact email is editortom@renaissancemagazine.com.

WHAT DEBORAH’S READING

I know there are a vast amount of readers who do not care for romances, but I do. Annnnddd I am still stuck in Julia Quinn’s world. I am reading the last book she published and the last one of hers I haven’t read. While I have enjoyed all her books, I am having a tad bit of trouble with this one. I read Mr. Cavendish, I Presume and the end was a shocker for me. While the hero did get the girl, everything else in his life went wrong. I kept waiting for his life to turn around, but it didn’t. Now, in The Lost Duke of Wyndham, the hero here is the character I didn’t like Mr. Cavendish, I Presume. The books are basically the same story, but told from different viewpoints. I am over half way through the book and am still finding it hard to sympathize with this hero. I’m hoping the end is a little different. Right now, he isn’t redeeming himself in my eyes. If you want to do a study of viewpoints, this is the book for you.

THIS MONTH’S CHALLENGE

Create a muse character for yourself, and then sit down and write him/her a lengthy letter. Tell your new confidant your writing dreams and aspirations. Write about your trials and tribulations. You don’t have to write it all in one sitting. Perhaps make some notes the first time you sit down to write, and then add exposition the next time. Make writing to your muse a daily or weekly habit. You will be surprised what you can get off your chest when you have a confidant.

Disclaimer: Deborah does not make any money off the products she discusses in this newsletter or endorses any website or market. Her purpose is to provide information only. She believes research and decision making is always left to the individual reader.

2010-02-06T09:17:00.000-08:00

FEBRUARY 2010 NEWSLETTER
Volume 1, Issue 2

QUOTE OF THE MONTH
“Obstacles are things we see when we take our eyes off the goal.” Zig Ziglar

MESSAGE FROM DEBORAH

I was excited when I signed up for the knitted Bloomin’ Scarf class. I had seen one finished and it was beautiful. Yes, it looked difficult, but as I looked at the picture on the pattern, I couldn’t wait to do the project and wear my new creation. “You won’t have any trouble knitting it,” the friend who was teaching the class told me. I was a little skeptical, but felt confident after I cast on the 400 stitches to the new circular needle with 60 inch cable. I completed the first two rows and listened carefully to my friend as she gave instructions about the pattern. It was straight forward-knit one row, purl the second, and then slip, slip, knit, etc. to make various flowers across the entire length of the scarf.
For the first month after the class, I worked on the scarf every evening for three to four hours. I had taken the class in June. By September, I wasn’t even half way through the project. There had been problems. I had slipped too many stitches or dropped stitches which made me have to rip out the work I had completed. My friend had been kind enough in the beginning to take the stitches out for me, but after the twelfth time, frankly, I was too embarrassed to ask her again, so I spent a week, first, trying to figure out which stitches to grab so I wouldn’t unravel the whole thing and second, ripping out over eight hundred stitches. I wasn’t happy.
In an attempt to keep my sanity, I set the bloomin’ scarf project aside. I completed a couple simple scarves for Breast Cancer Awareness month, finished a pair of socks, started another, and took a palm warmer class. I’d occasionally pick up the bloomin’ scarf and do a few rows, but just as quickly put it back in its basket.
By the middle of November, I decided to make everyone I knew a pair of palm warmers. In retrospect, I think it was because I was trying to avoid going back to the “you know which” project. I’d look at the colors, the rows of flowers I still needed to complete and think, I’m never going to finish it anyway.
Christmas came and went. The palm warmers were all given away and the scarf sat next to my chair waiting to be picked up. I had told several friends I was going to finish it by Christmas, but alas it wasn’t. I counted. I had finished seven rows of flowers in six months. I only had eight more rows to go. At the rate I was going I should have the scarf finished by Christmas 2010. That thought made me sick to my stomach. The very thought of having to slog through eight more rows brought all kinds of excuses to my mind, but I knew I had to make a decision. I could let the scarf sit in its basket and pull it out every now and then or I could determine to work on it and get it finished. With fortitude and determination, I picked up the bloomin’ scarf and muttered to myself, “I’m going to finish this by the end of January.” My daughter heard me, looked at the jumble of threads and laughed.
On January 28th, I finished.
I find my writing life the same way. I’m excited when I start a project or get an assignment. The goal is to finish, so work begins and then problems arise. I find myself distracted by other things I want to do, there’s more research that needs to be completed, I need to work on writing club jobs, or a million other things. On the days I do find myself at my keyboard, I fidget, keying words, then backspacing or deleting what I’ve written. At the end of the day, I’m no farther along than I was when I started in the morning. Discouragement sets in and I’ll read a friend’s book, the newspaper, even news links just to avoid the pain of not making any progress.
My books I’ll set aside for months. Assignments are a little trickier. I force myself to add words on the page, even though sometimes those words are less than brilliant. Okay, hardly ever brilliant, but okay.
And then determination sets in. I always tell my writing students and those who tell me, “I plan on writing a book some day,” that you can’t sell a product unless you have a product to sell. You have to sit down at your keyboard and write. Produce a book. It may be difficult. You may become disgusted with it. You may think, like a knitting, sewing, model car project, that it looks hideous, but way down deep something drives you to finish.
I know for myself, if I stop looking at all the problems, and just bully my way through, I’ll get things finished, be they knitting projects or writing projects. I know books as well as scarves take time. To use an old nautical term, I’ve got to stay “steady as she goes,” and the bottom line is keeping my eyes on the finished goal.
What’s keeping you from finishing your book?

NEW PLACES TO EXPLORE ON THE WWW

In December, I went back to Oklahoma. While there I touched base with a lot of friends from the area, which got me to thinking about other friends I hadn’t seen in a while. I decided to track down a dear friend from Tulsa, Norma Jean Lutz. I found her on Facebook. It was just a matter of time before I found her website. She’s got some neat info on there, so you might want to check it out. The URL is www.fiction-aire.com.
Norma Jean has been writing for over thirty years and has over 50 books to her name. She teaches and mentors writers about writing and publishing. On her website, you can learn about online classes, ask Norma Jean writing questions, read articles on writing written by Norma Jean and download freebies. I’ve personally known Norma Jean for over twenty years. She is a trustworthy person and the knowledge she imparts you can take to the bank.

FUN PRODUCTS FOR WRITERS

Looking for a writer’s t-shirt? Maybe a pair of shoes with author written on them? What about a “writer’s hat” for those times you’re sitting at the computer being a writer? Look no further than Zazzle Writer’s Gifts, http://www.zazzle.com/writers+gifts. Here you’ll find ties, hats, mugs, calendars, pins, business cards, mouse pads, stationary, tote bags, aprons, shoes, notebooks, journals, t-shirts and more, all with the writer in mind. Some examples are t-shirts with quotes that say, “I love writing”, “Don’t Bug Me, I’m Writing”, and “I’m Not Day Dreaming I’m Planning My Next Novel”. This site has over 55,000 items for writers.

A MARKET FOR YOU

For those of you interested in writing picture books, check out Raven Tree Press, www.raventreepress.com. They publish 8 to 10 books per year and fifty percent of those books are by first time authors. Word length cannot exceed 750 words and they prefer 500 words. Their books are printed in color and in English, Spanish, and Bilingual.
They do not want alphabet books, rhyming books, or word play books. They are interested in books that can develop in to a series.
Raven Tree Press pays advances against royalties. They want the entire book submitted. No query letters. Responds in one to two months. Authors can submit via postal service or electronically off Raven Tree’s website. For more information, check out their website.

WHAT DEBORAH’S READING

Finding Your Voice: how to put personality in your writing by Les Edgerton. Published by Writer’s Digest Books in 2003. Softback. 244 pages. 1-58297-173-0. $16.99.

Are you having trouble finding your writing voice? Do you know what your style is? Are you so wrapped up in someone else’s writing you can’t seem to add your own personality to your work? Never fear, Les is here.
With humor and great insight, Les Edgerton takes you down a writing yellow brick road pointing out through examples and exercises how you can stop focusing on what others have told you and “learned you” about writing and shows you how to find and show your own personality in your writing. Edgerton writes about everything from synonyms to dialogue to silencing the inner critic or getting him to work for you instead of against you.
More than once as you read, you will find yourself in agreement with what the author has written. If you are stuck because you want to write one thing, but don’t think you can because of the rules, then you will be freed by Edgerton’s wisdom.
You can order this book from https://www.amazon.com/dp/1582971730?tag=deborahbouz05-20&camp=0&creative=0&linkCode=as1&creativeASIN=1582971730&adid=1N6NWRXCE6QV1VJ7Y36Z& and get it for $11.55. Just click on the link. That is a great deal if you’re looking for your writing voice.

THIS MONTH’S CHALLENGE

Do you like to garden? Do you have a special way with children? Perhaps you cook a mean slab of ribs? Think about everything you do in life and make a list of those things. Don’t think about if what you do is right or wrong, just jot it down. Now from your list, take one item and write how you do what you do and why. If you read excessively, why not write about what you read and write book reviews? If you clean house all the time, what tips can you pass on to others who want to clean in a hurry? Finally, perhaps all those games you play with your grandchildren that you used to play as a child, can be written about, published, and passed on down to other generations. You’ll never know what can become of the things you do, until you write them down.

Disclaimer: Deborah does not make any money off the products she discusses in this newsletter or endorses any website or market. Her purpose is to provide information only. She believes research and decision making is always left to the individual reader.

2010-01-07T10:55:00.000-08:00

JANUARY 2010 NEWSLETTER
Volume I, Issue I

QUOTE OF THE MONTH
“He who spends time regretting the past loses the present and risks the future.”
Francisco de Quevedo
(Spanish Writer)

MESSAGE FROM DEBORAH

It’s a New Year and time for new beginnings. For me personally, I look forward to chalking up 2009 as a learning experience and diving right in to 2010. I had some accomplishments-three of my books hit the shelves, and some disappointments—didn’t get to promote my books as I wanted to because of time constraints and wasn’t able to work on my fiction like I had planned.
But what’s in the past is past. I can’t go back and change 2009. All I can do is look ahead and do better. I always make out a list of goals for the upcoming year. This year I intend to keep current with this newsletter, something I’ve been meaning to do for five to ten years now; work on my fiction, I know if I write one page a day at the end of the year, I’ll have a book; stay in touch better with friends and relatives, to name only a few things.
Problems always seem to arrive mid-year. I do great for the first few months and then things fall apart. I like to pride myself in the discipline I have, when in truth I know I do not have the work ethic some of my friends have, especially one. I am currently interviewing Merline Lovelace for F&W’s Novel and Short Story Market Book. She and I started writing around the same time. Today, she has 75 books published with millions in print. I have fourteen, most with small publishers and hundreds of articles. The difference between Merline and me is she sits at her computer ten hours a day.
I realize we have different lifestyles, different responsibilities, different personalities, but still I can’t help but admire her discipline. I sit down at the computer for a few hours and find I have to get up, do something different. Sometimes, when I get to my computer, I do everything else, like check the weather, email, facebook, etc. before I ever open my word processing program. This year, I’m going to work on getting in to the discipline of work. Working on my writing projects is going to be my number one priority. If I have to start small, then I will.
I read an article a few years back. The writer wrote about how he was having trouble with discipline. He decided to get on his computer, open his word processing program and work for thirty minutes on his writing. Even if he didn’t write a word and the page remained blank, he would sit there for thirty minutes. After a week of staring at the cursor blink, he became so bored he started writing. At first, it was anything to get words on paper. After a few weeks, he found he was into a story. He lengthened his time until finally he was writing up to six hours solid a day.
In the past, I have said “I am serious about my writing” and from the outside it may look like I have been, but I have known the truth. This year, I am taking a different approach.
What is your approach? Have you studied, really considered what you want to accomplish in 2010? Written down your goals? If you haven’t thought about it, do. Even if you aim at the moon and miss, you might hit a star. And forward progress is forward.
Look to 2010 with optimism and a desire to succeed my friend. I am.

NEW PLACES TO EXPLORE ON THE WWW
The best way to get in the habit of writing is to, of course, write every day. If you are stuck and can’t think of any topics to write about, why don’t you visit www.creativewritingprompts.com? This site was picked as a Writer’s Digest Top 101 Websites for Writers. On the opening page, you will find 346 writing prompts. Just move your cursor over the numbers, read the prompt and start writing. It’s a great way to practice your craft without feeling the need or pressure for perfection.

FUN PRODUCTS FOR WRITERS
We all wake up in the middle of the night with a great writing idea. Most of us have learned to get up and write those ideas down. I say “get up” because many of us have a partner beside us and can’t turn the lights on. Well, we could turn the lights on, but that wouldn’t be considerate and in most cases we’d awaken a bear we’d rather not deal with.
On the flip side, we don’t get up. We lie in bed, convincing ourselves we’ll remember in the morning, and fall back to sleep. When morning does come and we can’t remember the brilliant idea we had at 2:00 a.m. we become bears ourselves.
I have found the solution to the problem. It is called the “Magellan’s Night Writer Pen”. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the pen, it has a light on the bottom half that illuminates a fair amount of paper, so you can write down those ideas in the middle of the night without getting out of your warm bed and disturbing your partner. The cost is $19.85 plus shipping and handling. You can order the Night Writer Pen from http://www.magellans.com/store/Reading___Writing___PensBA910?Args= or pens like it and much cheaper at Amazon.com.

A MARKET FOR YOU
In this section of the newsletter, I will be presenting markets that are currently looking at writer’s manuscripts. This month, I’d like to introduce you to AWOC.com. Dan Case is the publisher. This house is a small publisher, but it covers many different genres. Case has several series he publishes as well as individual genres. This house does not offer an advance, but the royalty rate is competitive. To check out this market, visit www.awocbooks.com.

WHAT DEBORAH’S READING
I just completed reading the Twilight series by Stephanie Meyers. I had never read any vampire books and actually shunned the suggestion, but then I watched Twilight the movie and I admit I am hooked. After I finished that series, I read Pride and Prejudice again. I typically read P and P once a year. Then it was on to research reading. I read three books my Merline Lovelace, All the Wrong Moves, Undercover Wife, and The Duke’s New Year’s Resolution. For those of you who have never read Merline, I would recommend her books highly. Her attention to detail is incredible. Now, I’m reading a novel by Laura Kinsale and Finding Your Voice by Les Edgerton. I hope in February to give you a review of Finding Your Voice.

THIS MONTH’S CHALLENGE
Make a list of as many childhood memories as you can remember good and bad. Keep this list in your journal. Once a week, pull your list out and write about one of those memories. Remember to write about how you felt then (if you can remember) and how you feel now about the event. One day, the memory might be useful in another piece of work.

Disclaimer: Deborah does not make any money off the products she discusses in this newsletter or endorse any website or market. Her purpose is to provide information only. She believes research and decision making is always left to the individual reader.

2009-08-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

What a week. Have been working on maps for the book and waiting for edits to come back from the copy editor. I'm also getting ready to judge a couple contests for some groups, plus travel back to Oklahoma. September should be a busy and exciting month. Ha!
I'll be adding some free and paid for reports to my website soon. Be on the lookout for that, but I'll make an announcement when everything is up.
Off to work on an outline for another book.
Until Next Time
Keep Writing~

2009-08-15T15:14:00.000-07:00

It's been a lazy month, but I am back to work. I turned in the book on July 12th before 10:00 a.m. Made my editor happy. Took a month off. Planned to do a lot, but basically did nothing. Not good on any front. However, I am getting on it.
I have been working on getting my website updated. Some of the changes I wanted made are having to be made by my webpeople. They told me they would have things done in a couple weeks. Great! Just as I'm ready to go back to Oklahoma. Anywho--
In the meantime, I have joined Facebook and Twitter. Still learning the ropes over there. Twitter is fun. One can only put 140 characters per tweet. Brevity is king. Ha! Facebook is a little more lenient, buuuutttt I'm still trying to decide if once you post on your wall, everyone can see it. Don't want to over burden people, soooo.... Still working on both of them.
I'm going to be loading a couple writing programs on this 'puter so I can get to work on another book. The plot is pretty solid, buuuttttt I'm having trouble with my main character's backstory and profession. Hmmmm. I'll keep plugging away.
Oh, something fun. Go check out the cover for my new book at www.amazon.com. It's called the "Insider's Guide to Oklahoma City". You can already pre-order a copy.
Until Next Time~
Have Fun and Keep Writing

2009-06-22T12:04:00.001-07:00

I know it's been some time since I've come on and blogged. The book is almost finished. I have two chapters left. I am supposed to have the book finished by the end of the month, but it may be close to my July 15th deadline. If I could do three pages a day for 3 days on both this health care and education, I think I would almost call it good. I've been looking at this Health Care and I'm trying to decide how I want to organize it. Going to go and see what I can figure out.
I will be writing more once this is finished. I'm going to start doing some publicity and get a presence on the Internet for all my books.
Later~

2009-04-23T14:29:00.000-07:00

Hello All! Jeepers Creepers!!! Two months! Yikes! I continue to plod along on the Insider's Guide book. It has been to say at the least an eye-opening experience. I have been trying to contact businesses in the Oklahoma City area to get information to include them in this book, but alas, many have hung up on me, told me they weren't interested, or were down right rude. I am not charging them, nor will they be charged in the future for inclusion in this book. All they have to do is answer a few questions.
While doing all this, I did get the trucker's book finished. It is to be released tomorrow, as a matter of fact. The next time, I write I will add the URL. I need to add the URL to my webpage as well, but first I need to finish the OKC book.
Currently, it looks like it could be finished by the end of June. My editor is probably ready to kill me although when we talk on the phone, she always sounds nice and calm. I am ready to put my head or fist through the wall or commit some other act of violence to myself. I can't sleep at night. I wake up in a cold sweat, feel like I'm drowning when I have days like today.
Today, I had big plans, was going to get a lot of holes filled in these chapters, but decided to call places to work on the other chapters before I worked on my words. Well, here it is, nearing 5 and all I've done is phone work. AND I got to my desk at 8:30 AM. Something is wrong with this entire picture. Yesterday I got to my desk at FIVE AM. Still nothing accomplished.
I have learned some interesting information about people and their businesses, none of which I can really use, but interesting none the less. And then there are the businesses I have called, emailed, called again, and again, and still haven't heard from them, so I will have to CALL AGAIN if I in fact want them in the book.
This is truly making me NUTS. I DO NOT MISS DEADLINES and not only is this deadline not going to be hit, I don't know how to schedule it. IF and that is a BIG IF, IF the places I have been calling would get back to me, respond to my emails, or my snail mail letters, I could move along. What's slwoing me down is I have to call, and call, and call. On the third call, I typically ask if I can just go to their website and would they send me an email to that affect. Never receive the email. Argh!
So I continue to struggle. One of the reasons I haven't been writing here is by the time the end of the day comes, I'm exhausted--if I have any time at the end of the day. I have been giving every second of my life to this book, sooo.... Don't be surprised if you don't hear from me again here until the end of June. I will definitely write and let you know when I finish it. There shall be shouts of joy from all quarters of the house.
Til Then~
Keep Writing

2009-02-22T20:25:00.000-08:00

Yikes! I thought I'd written before now. I am pressing on this book. I sat down at this computer at 9 this morning and it's past 9 now. I'm trying to do interviews, gather information and write about 3000 words a day. I am continually amazed at how much lack of cooperation I am receiving. I make phone calls. No one calls me back. I called one restaurant five times. Each time the owner promised me an interview. When I finally pinned her down and asked the first question, she said I would have to talk to the owner. I asked for the owner the very first time I called. I feel like hitting my head on the desk. I'm still behind on word count and these people are not helping at all. If I didn't need them in this book, I would so axe their tails out of it.
Now, there are some people who are nice, get right back to me, but then there are others... Argh!
I'm tired, so I'm closing. Be thankful you are not me right now.
Until next time, keep writing.

2009-02-14T13:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day everybody!!! I'm working today. It seems as if no one else is. Then Monday there is the holiday. Blah! I hit the 35,000 word mark today on the book. I'm getting ready to work on the trucker book here in a bit. It's snowing outside. My husband is supposed to watch our grandbaby tonight while my son and his wife go out. I'll be here. No doubt working. Argh! Well, this is the life I always wanted. It could be worse. I could have no work at all. SO....
Got to run and get to work.
Til Next Time, Keep Writing~

2009-02-12T16:44:00.000-08:00

The past few days have been crazy. I got behind on the book, so today I had to try to catch up. Yesterday, I worked on galleys for my book coming out in the Spring. I've been trying to work on the trucker book. Haven't made much head-way, but plan on moving some mountains tonight. Must run. Still have work to do.
Later~

2009-02-09T10:19:00.000-08:00

I've had a disasterous week as far as writing and the book is concerned. Wednesday, my little laptop died. I worked for a few days trying to get it fixed and then just decided to go ahead and get a new one. The other screen was too small anyway. Buuuttttt, all that messing around put me behind several days on the book. I'm not happy. Now it's time to catch up. Today, I'm trying to do those things I put off while dealing with the 'puter. Anyway, I'm hoping to get in a rhythm and get back on it. Now, I have to work every day for the rest of the month to get to where I need to be page wise. Ah, the life of a writer. Right now, it's blah. Heading out to get busy, so....
Until next time,
Keep Writing.

2009-02-04T14:19:00.000-08:00

I can't believe ten days has passed since last I wrote. I kept my grandson for about five days. He was so precious. Wanted to read. We did that, played and watched movies. Every day he hasn't been here I've been working on the book. I'm 114 pages in, 18, 500 words. Whew! My goal is to do 5 pages for 20 days in February and 20 in March. Over the weekend I'm going to print off what I have so far. Yesterday, I started to work on the trucker book too. So far, so good. I'm not feeling too confident. I know on in to this thing, it becomes a nightmare. Yikes! I got two months to get it whipped into shape.
Some great news on another front. Today, I got a couple books on book prices. For years, I've collected some old books here and there. One of the books I got is a Charles Dickens first Edition. I paid $250 dollars for it a year ago and have beat myself up over spending that much money for a book I wasn't sure about. Well, today I found out it's worth between $500 and $1200. Even if I'm on the load end of the spectrum, I still doubled my money. So, yippeee for me. I want to start collecting more books, but I was determined to buy quality stuff. Hopefully now I can learn what the books I want are worth before I buy them.
Tomorrow is another day at the keyboard. Hopefully another productive one.
Until Next Time, Keep Writing~

2009-01-25T09:09:00.000-08:00

I have been working. Working so many hours in fact that by the time I get ready to shut off, I forget I haven't blogged. So this morning I'm starting with this.
I'm up to 84 pages, not a great amount as all I have so far is all my research, but today, this morning I'm going to do some writing, see how many pages I get done there before I jump back in to the research. I won't get but about three days in next week, but the week after I'm going to have to start getting up and at this computer by 8 at the latest.
It is snowing here. Last night, we got a good six inches. Eighteen inches short of what they said we were going to get. Thank goodness. It is supposed to snow more later today, again Monday and for a while on Tuesday.
Okay, enough of the weather. It's off to work. I have to admit, I am afraid of this book. It's so big, I don't know if I can hit my deadline. There's so much to write about, so much research to do and the way my life is. I think what I'm going to do is just see where I get by the end of March, then let my editor know if I need some more time. If it wasn't for all the research that needed to go into this for my writing, I'd be fine, but whew! Okay, deep breaths are in order. I tend to freak out..especially at the end of the day when I don't get as many pages done as I need to. Speaking of pages I better go and get on them.
Til Tomorrow, Keep Writing.

2009-01-20T12:06:00.001-08:00

I got a late start today because I woke up at 3 and didn't go back to sleep until 6. Then I slept until 9:30. Good grief. I should have got up and started on the book, but I fought it because I felt tired just couldn't sleep.
I did already send out about twenty press releases for the writer's organization I belong to, so I guess that counts for something, just not my page count.
Yesterday, I did get my ten pages in. I hope to do at least eight today. We'll see. I think I've almost got the outline completely fleshed out. Going to keep working on that today. See how far I get. So far it doesn't look good and I have one MEAN headache on top of everything. Blah! Okay, off to work.
Until Tomorrow, Keep Writing

2009-01-19T10:25:00.000-08:00

I am up and at 'em today. I am determined to get 10 pages today and I'm doing that first. I have checked my email accounts and looked in on the art site, but am working on the book for the most part. I've got to start getting at least ten pages in per day if I'm going to get this thing finished. I have to admit, I am a little scared. It seems like the more I try to press and do, the more things I procrastinate about. I guess this is the life of a writer. It's amazing how good I feel when I reach my goal for the day and how badly I feel when I don't, even if I'm one page off. Deep breaths. That's what I've got to remember. Deep breaths and one page at a time.
Well, writing here isn't getting any pages done, so I'm off.
Til Tomorrow, Keep Writing~

2009-01-17T11:35:00.001-08:00

I completed eight pages yesterday. Down from my goal of ten, but at least I put something down on paper. Still working on the massive outline. Once I get that done I'm going to go back and start fleshing everything out. I still don't know about word count, page count or anything like that. I can't seem to get together with my editor. I'm just moving ahead. She sent me some books to look at, so I'm following their structures and going from there. Today, I'm going to work on Retirement, Education, and worship.
I got a late start, but I'm not getting up from here until I get my ten pages in. I'd like to do more as tomorrow will be a short day for me, but I'll see.
I've also got to get that article roughed. NO, I didn't get to it yesterday. I did cut and keep about 2100 words, so now I just have to write 400. I did the research yesterday for the intro, so today I've got to write the thing. It's due Tuesday, so it's crunch time.
More later. Til Then, Keep Writing~

2009-01-16T10:17:00.000-08:00

Today is going to be a full working day. Yesterday, I went out of town, didn't get in until late. So the next few days are working days. I'm almost up to fifty pages just on an outline. Going to go through today and add more stuff, make more contacts, etc....
I also have to rough draft an article. Yikes!
The trucker book is up next.
Til Next Time~
Keep Writing.

2009-01-12T10:05:00.000-08:00

Sorry. Sorry. I didn't post for two days. I intended to yesterday, but I worked up until my daughter came in from work and ws such a rush to get off, I forgot. I didn't work Saturday. I went to an oil painting. It was fun and fresh.
Yesterday, I edited an article and then worked on the book. Got eleven pages added. Not too shabby, but I know that was a good day. There will days when I only get half that many and some days when I don't get any because of obligations. I'm going to work on it the best I can and give her my progress come March.
Haven't started on the trucker book yet. Going to get these articles out of the way. Got to work on another one today and then rough one more. I'm going to send these other two and tell her the other one is coming and should be there the 20th. Gulp!
With that said, I better head out and get to writing.
Til Tomorrow, keep writing yourself.
:-)

2009-01-09T16:44:00.000-08:00

Okay today another dud. I had to go back down the mountain, take the rental car back and get my car. I stopped by a few places, checked out some things. Did get me some new tennis shoes, which I needed badly. But now it's late again and still no writing done.
I did work on the articles yesterday as I sat and waited on my vehicle. Then last night when I got home, I worked on a few pages of the book. Absolutely nothing to brag about though.
Come Sunday I've got a lot to do.Good grief. Okay. Deep breaths. I can do this. I can.
Til Next Time, Keep Writing~

2009-01-08T16:52:00.000-08:00

This will be short as there isn't much to report. Good grief. This week has been horrible. Haven't gotten anything on the book done this week and the next two days, filled to the brim with car appointments, doctor appointments, etc.... Maybe Sunday I'll get something done. This week does not bode well. I'm getting very scared. I don't know what I'm going to do. I'm praying for a miracle. I'm going to need one.
Til Next Time.
Keep Writing~

2009-01-05T16:39:00.000-08:00

As promised, today, I am starting a daily update of my blog concering my writing projects. Today was not a good day. I didn't get anything done and I mean NOTHING. Such a sad beginning. I hope and plan to do better tomorrow. Tonight I am going to sit down and work on my schedule and calendar. Tomorrow is a new day, so I'll start over tomorrow and work through the weekend.
One thing though. I did write in my journal. I plan to keep that up this year. Slipped at the end of last, so tomorrow.
Get to your writing projects too.
Until Tomorrow~

2008-12-11T11:38:00.001-08:00

Coming on Monday, I will be giving you at least a weekly, if not some weeks daily updates of a writer's life and how a writer works. I am currently working on interviews for F&W, doing publicity for OWFI, revising the trucker's book, and am in the process of securing a contract for another travel guide book.
All this will keep me busy well into 2009. Thank goodness. With everyone talking about how terrible the economy is, I am happy just to have a job. So many don't.
Anyway, beginning Monday, January 5, I will be logging in telling you how it's going and how many words I get written. It will be a log of the book, how it started, how it's going, all the way to the end. It should be an education for everyone--including me.
Keep Writing. We still have 20 days left in this month and one can get a lot of words written in 20 days.
Later.

2008-11-23T14:32:00.001-08:00

Wow! What a month this has been. If you read my last post you know I was back in Oklahoma for a while. I did get my short story turned in--on time, I might add. In between doctor's appointments, etc., I was going back and forth to Kansas. My grandfather had been ill. He passed away Monday. We buried him on Friday.
About eight, ten years ago, my grandmother asked me to do both their eulogies. I told her I would. Talk about waiting til the last minute to hit a deadline. However, I couldn't bring myself to write it earlier. I would start to and then be afraid he would die prematurely if I wrote it. So, I waited until about ten days ago, when it looked like the inevitable would happen. I wrote and rewrote and five minutes before I got up to give his eulogy, I was still rewriting. My word, how do you encapsulate a man's life in ten minutes?
I got up and gave it. I can truly say for all these years of writing and speaking, that was the absolute most difficult thing I have ever done. My grandmother was pleased and she was the one I was doing it for.
We got home late last night. Now, I am working on interview questions for some articles I am contracted to write. Life goes on.
Thank God for deadlines. I didn't want to get out of bed this morning. Would have been content to lie in bed, cover up my head allllll day long, but had to get up and get to work.
You get to work too.
Til Next Time, Keep Writing~

2008-10-28T11:06:00.000-07:00

Whew!What a busy past month I have had. I completed the book, buuuuuttttt , I am still waiting on a contract from my publisher, so I am holding the manuscript for ransom. Also am finishing up a short story within the next few days . It started out as a little bitty thing that grew in to a 4000 word tiger. Got to edit it and then it will be ready to go. Wrote 4 1/2 pages of back story before I started the manuscript itself. Yikes! It probably could have been a full blown book, but alas a short story is what it is.
I'm leaving on Thursday to go back to Oklahoma for a while. It will be a hectic time. Swinging through Kansas to see my ailing grandparents. The doctors don't think they will around for much longer, so....
When I get back up here I have to get back to work on the trucker book. I plan to have it completed by the end of the year. I know my editor will appreciate that as he's been waiting on if for a year. Yikes!
Best be off. Have big plans for my writing career. Will discuss them more in a later blog.
Until then, Keep Writing~

2008-10-10T15:33:00.000-07:00

Fall is most definitely here. I am still in Colorado. It is cloudy and cool with a hint of a breeze. A few minutes ago, I heard a bull elk bugle. I looked out my office window and there he was pushing his herd of girls up the hill toward the golf course.
I've been here at the keyboard since 8:00 this morning working on the latest edition of Off the Beaten Path. I've done about 15 phone interviews, scribbled, rewritten, worked on an index, sent an email to an editor and wrote a blurb for a local business. It's amazing what one can get done when one tries. Ha! But the elk were a welcome sight. I needed the break and didn't realize how stiff I was until I stood up. Yikes!
"America's Got Talent" announced our winner. Did your contestant win? Mine did. I was so happy for Neal A. Boyd, I can't even begin to tell you. I was worried as there were so many talented people competing. I wanted Eli to win as well as Nothin' but Strings, but Neal was always my top choice. His voice is simply incredible. I have to admit, I have spent the last two weeks gloating in his win. Can't wait to watch the October 17th performance. My main phrase to my daughter is 'there is justice in the world afterall'. At least where that program in concerned.
We won't get in to politics. As far as I'm concerned, everybody in Washington and those getting ready to go to Washington are nuts. I don't trust any of them farther than I can throw them and I can't throw them far. I honestly think we'd be better off with Porky Pig as President, but that's just MHO.
In the meantime, what to do with our time since winter is approaching. How about hauling out those notes on the book you've been intending to write, brushing the dust away, and getting started on it while the weather is cold and nasty outside? Lord knows when it warms up, you'll find all kinds of excuses to keep you away from the keyboard.
Now's the time to get started. Use those extra hours inside to get that book written. Don't forget Nano is coming up in November. That might be a motivator for you..if you need it. The bottom line is write this winter.
Til Next Time~

2008-09-17T14:31:00.000-07:00

Hello! Have been working on 'the book'. I have to admit when my editor said she still needed it by October 26th, I didn't think it was possible. However, about two weeks later, I am almost half-way through it. Yippeeee for me!!!! I have been suffering headaches and at times I swear I'm going blind because I literally can't see the keyboard, but I'm muddling through. I talked to a friend yesterday who said, "I'd put my money on you anytime". Hmmmm.
Tonight, America's Got Talent comes on. Will definitely be watching that. Down to 10. I don't know. I want at least 5 of those 10 to win. it's not fair. Oh, I said that before so I won't keep saying it, but it's not. They have so much talent.
Tomorrow, I am going to see my little "Sugar Bear". He wasn't feeling good Monday when I was down. His mama says he's feeling better now. He is such a little cutie pie. He loves airplanes. When one flies over, he'll point up to the sky and say, 'plane, plane'.
Okay, enough of my going on. Time I get back to work.
What about you? Are you working?
Oh, I almost forgot. If you haven't already, go check out the Muse Conference Online. I believe it is www.museconferenceonline.com. You can only sign-up for classes until September 30th, I believe. For those of you who may not know, this is a writer's conference online aaaaaannnnddd it is free. Be there or be square.
Until Next Time~

2008-09-10T16:31:00.000-07:00

Hello All! Contrary to all rumors, I have not been abducted by aliens or fallen off the face of the earth. I am still in Colorado, however, I must admit I face deja vu daily. I am working on the 7th edition of Oklahoma Off the Beaten Path. Staring at the mountains, but traveling to Oklahom by phone and internet can get pretty wild. I've been putting in some hard time as my deadline is October. Yikes! This week's work has been good so far. It looks as if I may make that deadline.
Made it through the Olympics...let me see...the political speeches, and now we're back to "America's Got Talent". So far, my Neal, is moving on up. I have to admit I am tremendously torn though. I want Neal and Eli to win. There are others, but they are my top two. It is going to be painful to see one win and not the other. I don't know if I can stand it. Now is the time I would like to be God (or rich), so I could bless both of them with fortunes. All I can say is someone had better pick them up. They have such incredibles voices...gives me the shivers.
Enough of that.
I am excited. Tomorrow, I get to see my grandson. Haven't seen him for a few days. Tomorrow he gets to spend a few days with gammy. Can't wait.
In the meantime, I've got to keep working. You keep writing too.
Til Next Time~

2008-08-11T14:52:00.000-07:00

Hello Readers! Still doing well and having fun in Colorado. I have been walking around the lake here aaaaand have been losing weight thankfully. I knew I would if I could just get back up here.
Feeling better about things now that has turned around.
For those of you who have been following the "America's Got Talent" series, what did you think of last week's episodes? I didn't know what to think. I felt the judges eliminated some very good acts and kept some stinky ones. I'm not fond of the two girls who can't sing or of the fire guy. Was shocked they kept those two acts on, but pitched the little contortionist and the R&B Singer. What? The only thing that makes me feel good is to think the reason they canned some of them was because they thought they could and would be picked up by a talent agency regardless. If you know anything otherwise, don't tell me. I don't want to know. I want to live my rosie little life thinking everyone else's will be just as rosy.
Now, on to the Olympics. Okay, what about our swimmer? He's racking up the Medals. How proud of him are we? Too bad though he has to swim sooo late.
Have heard from a few editors. Going to get to work on some new projects, which is good.
Watched a show about JK Rowlings today. Am always inspired when I see something about her. Who inspires you to get busy and be better than you are right now? So many inspire me. That means it's time to get to work.
Til Next Time Keep Writing~

2008-07-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

Have a minute and thought I'd post. Baby is down for his nap. I'm taking this time to catch up on some much needed writing.
We went for a walk this morning. Wore me out, but I think in the long run it will be worth all the tiredness I feel. I've got to get my bio ready and sent to one of my editors. Waiting to hear from another and need to email yet another.
For the past year and a half, I have basically taken time off. I don't regret it at all. But now I am starting over. The good thing is I know a whole lot more than I did all those years ago. Another good thing is writing allows you to take time off, and then start again if you need too. Granted that lapse is not great, but it's there if one needs to do it. I've kept writing for Writer's Digest and a few other houses, but now (deep breath) it's time to get started and branch out.
With that said, I've got to get to work. So do you.
Until Next Time, Keep Writing!

2008-07-28T19:22:00.000-07:00

We have arrived in Colorado. The weather is nice. The grandbaby loves it up here. He goes outside and watches all the people and animals. Today from the front porch, we watched a badger chase a ground squirrel across the neighborhood.
Later in the week I plan to get some writing done. I've got some ideas I've been kicking around for quite a while and want to get on them. I will.
I have been reading (again) "Techniques of the Selling Writer". I have learned some things about one of the books. I will write about it later.
Currently, I've got to put my grandbaby to night-night.
Until next time. Keep writing.

2008-07-19T17:43:00.000-07:00

Have watched another couple episodes of 'America's Got Talent'. There are so many talented people out there. I keep wondering why many of them haven't been discovered. They should have been. So many wonderful stories, so many people who want to make it at what they enjoy doing. Just like writers.
We struggle everyday to get our work noticed just like those contestants struggle to get their talent noticed. No matter how terrible they are, or how old, they walk out on that stage and do their thing. One's got to admire that. That takes a lot of guts.
Writers need to have just as much. When we send out our manuscripts, it shows we have guts too. We just have to keep sending them out until we're noticed.
Think about it.
Until next time, keep writing.

2008-06-30T12:29:00.000-07:00

Hello All! Things happen fast in my life and I lose track of time. I will try to catch you up, but know I will forget something.
My son and his wife sold their house. They have been traveling back and forth to Colorado looking for a place. I have been keeping baby for extended periods. That's okay, because he really is a good baby. We took him to the zoo earlier today and he loved the sea lions. I had him right up next to the tank glass. They would swim right up to him and he would cackle. He loves them. He'll be spending the fourth with us while mom and dad go back up to look some more. They have not made any new contacts yet, but hopefully will once they get settled.
In the meantime, my husband is trying to finish air force bases and hotels.
We have been watching 'America's Got Talent'. Wow! Some of the people on there are incredibly talented. The winner not only gets one million dollars, but a contract in Vegas. As I watch the acts, some I can see in Vegas. Others, not so much. I am getting a little nervous though. I don't see how they can choose only one act among the many. The two guys who sing, opera and blues, and then there are the Russian Pole people, the family who remind everyone of the VonTrapp Family. I don't know. I think they should make different catgeories. I can't believe some of those people haven't been snapped up already by an agent. Some are so incredibly talented, I want them to win and I know everybody won't win. Boohoo!
Why is this mentioned in a writing blog? Because that's the way it is with writing and publishing. There are some incredibly talented people out there who are never discovered for various reasons. I think it's so sad. So much potential and yet some are never found. I do hope that the people who don't win though go on to get contracts. It's heartbreaking to think they have to go back to obscurity.
I personally have been working on an outline for a book series. It will be different from anything I have ever done, so we'll see.
Keep holding on to your dreams out there.
Til Next Time~

2008-05-28T18:21:00.000-07:00

I am currently reading a book about plotting. After reading this morning, I started thinking about the what if's not only in the books I want to write and am writing, but in my family's past. It's no secret I have issues with my family. I have tried to track my family tree, something my parents and aunts and uncles don't seem to be interested in. That's another blog, another time.
Anywho, my grandparents had another son before my dad was born. His name was Leroy. Today, I started thinking about him. When I was growing up, if we (my sister, brother and I) wanted to open our presents before Christmas Day and we were around my grandmother, she always let us. One day, she told me the story of Leroy. He wanted a train for Christmas. That year my grandfather had made him a wooden train. Leroy was 4. My grandmother was making little Leroy wait to open his present until Christmas, but he fell sick and died Christmas Eve. My grandmother never said, but I know that has haunted her all her life.
Today, I wondered what if Leroy had survived? He would have been the oldest. How would that have affected my father? How would that have affected my family? How would that have affected me? Would my parents still have married? Would I have even been born?
All the possibilities, all the entanglements, all the differences. I wonder....
Isn't that what life is all about? Wonder. Wonder what might be, what might have been.
Til Next Time--Keep writing and wondering.

2008-05-22T16:30:00.000-07:00

Last night I woke up at 1:40 AM and started to get deeper in to my worrying mode. I tend to be a worrier. I wish I wasn't. It seems if I truly don't have anything to worry about, I make something up. I know the statistics-that 90% of what one worries about never happens, but perhaps I worry about things because I want to be prepared. I'm not good with surprises and I tend to handle things better if I'm prepared.
My latest worry is about baby. What if he falls off the couch? How will he react when they move to Colorado? Who will watch him if I can't? Will we make enough money to support all of us up there with our new venture? What about gas? How are we going to get to where we need to go if gas keeps going up? What about the price of food? Can we make enough money to keep baby fed? And on and on and on.
Finally, I got so tired, I worked on changing thoughts. I started thinking about my writing. Even though I've not been as steady as I should have been with my schedule as I should have been lately, but one thing about 'writing' is it will always be there for me. No matter what else happens, good, bad, ugly things, writing is my strong arm and will always be.
I've also pinned down some directions I want to take my writing. That is for future blogs.
For now, get some sleep, stop worrying and keep writing.

2008-05-15T18:48:00.000-07:00

For some time now I've been trying to decide who I was and why I was put on this earth. I'm not sure if it's only writers and other creative people who struggle with this or if it's just me. I have noticed over the past years that only those individuals who have really suffered in their life make anything of themselves. At times, I think this must be my problem, I've not suffered enough. And then, I look at my life and think maybe I have suffered too much and am just not willing to deal with it.
I have come to terms with a few things in my life. Other things I am trying to deal with. I use the word 'trying' because mostly I 'try' to ignore the situations in hopes that they will go away.
I dream of a perfect life. I know that is not possible. In lieu of that, I have decided to start a 'Suffrage Club'.
If you've ever watched the first and I mean 'original' Star Wars, that would be Episode IV, then you will know immediately of what I speak. C3PO and R2D2 have gotten themselves in to a fix. C3PO turns to R2D2 and says, "it's our lot in life to suffer." That's me.
I don't want or expect you to feel sorry for me, just understand me. On the outside, I have a pretty good life. It's inside where I suffer. Things I wanted to do, things I wished I'd done, things I'd like to do, but afraid I never will. Sometimes it feels like someone has attached a vaccum cleaner hose to me and is sucking the life out of me.
And Lord knows if it's not the family out to get me, it's the government. Currently with gas prices the way they are and various other things going on (you know what I mean), I think the government will probably win. But that's another blog.
For now, I'm off to write in my journal. See if I can make any sense of this day.
Until next time, keep writing.

2008-05-06T11:46:00.001-07:00

Jumping Jiminy! I can't believe two weeks have passed. I guess that's what happens when you are busy. I just got back from the Oklahoma Writer's Federation Conference. It turned out to be an interesting weekend. Met a lot of wonderful editors and agents. Not sure that I will ever have anything to send them, but they are nice to know. Really a great group of kids. Met another sweet, sweet writer. He was an editor, but left that job to write full-time. Good for him.
Since I got home late Sunday, I have been trying to get through my email. Good grief. I have been offered a penis enlargement, an 8.5 million dollar recovery fee from the Sudanese Prime Minister, aaaannnnddd have been told I applied for a bonus job and got it. Can't remember applying, sure don't need a penis, and about the 8.5...weelllll, I'm not going to touch that with a ten foot poll. Yes, interesting emails indeed.
While I was gone, my grandbaby had an accident. He broke out one of his front baby teeth. He also ran a low grade fever (102) all weekend. I swear. I leave for four days and the world falls apart. Have been having to coddle baby. He is very, very grumpy. Oh well, that's what grammy's are for, to make the world a better place.
Must run. He's up from his nap and needs a little loving.
Next time I'm on, I'll give you an update on the word count of the trucker book. It's slooooowwwwly coming along.
Until then, keep writing~

2008-04-21T16:52:00.000-07:00

For those of you who follow this blog, you know I have been watching my grandbaby. He is such an inquisitive little man. Recently, when he started talking, he came up with a phrase that now he is saying it, we hear everywhere. He'll see something he's interested in and he'll point with his pointy finger and ask 'what'z dat?' Of course, we tell him and he'll study whatever he pointed at like he's taking it all in, seeing it for the first time, even if he sees and asks the same question every day.
Now, whether we're watching a movie or the news, we all laugh when we hear "what's that?" My husband and I even catch each other saying 'what's that?'
I find that an excellent phrase for writers. Sometimes we need to see things with new eyes like a baby, ask 'what'z dat?' and study the item until we are satisfied and ready to move on.
Until Next Time~

2008-04-14T02:12:00.000-07:00

Just when you think your life is safe to start living, reality comes and punches you in the face. Isn't that the way it always is?
I recently watched an episode of "Boston Legal" where Allen Shore was afraid of Bobo the blow-up Clown. For those of you unaware of who or what Bobo is, let me give you a description. He is a blow-up clown with a weight in the bottom. When someone hits him, he reels back falling to the ground, but always pops back up with a cheesy grin on his face.
I have been on both sides of Bobo, feeling I was like him and now feeling the world and life's trials are like Bobo. I know everyone faces difficulties, but lately it's like whatever I do, how ever hard I hit the world in the face and knock my problems down, it pops back up with that stupid grin, mocking me and saying, 'here's something else.'
Then there are the many years, I have felt like Bobo, getting knocked down, but then popping back up. I consider myself to have a thick skin, but even thick skinned people can wear thin. It's not that the publishing world has been cruel to me. Quite the opposite. I know rejection will happen there. I accept it as part of the job. It's family I'm not sure I can recover from very much longer.
Yesterday, my husband walked through the house griping about all the stuff he was having to do with this new business he is trying to start. I told him I knew what he meant because it was tough my trying to keep all the balls in the air with my writing business. He said, "yeah, we all know and if we waited for you to become a success in your business, we'd all starve."
That's the kind of attitude I've lived with for the past 15 years. He expected me to make a million dollars those first five years and when the six and seventh came along, then eleven and twelfth and I was only up to thousands, he wasn't interested in what I did anymore. As a matter of fact, I believe he has done things to purposely sabatoge my career.
These days to keep him from griping and saying crude remarks, I sneak around and write. I get up at 3 in the morning, wait until he goes to bed, or when he is gone. It's not a perfect life, but rarely is life perfect.
Sometimes I wonder how much longer I can keep bouncing back or how much longer life will keep popping back up laughing at me. And somehow, somehow, I always come back to my keyboard, ready to go, with a renewed sense of purpose, willing to try again, no matter what gets hurled my way.
What about you? Are you willing to keep popping back up, no matter what?
Going to get more consistent here. I promise.
Until Next Time, Keep Writing~

2008-03-25T10:04:00.000-07:00

I've been intending to post here for over a week now. Like I've always said, where does the time go? I'm still behind on my current writing project. I don't know what I'm going to do about that. I woke up this morning at 2 A.M. and couldn't go back to sleep for thinking of everything I had to do today and then the book. I really do and am working on it. It is just becoming more of a chore than anything else. I think if I had more time, I'd feel better about it. As it is, I'm worried about how it's going to read and everything.
Am reading the book, "Write is a Verb". It's pretty good. Learning some things and there are some things I need to pay attention to as far as I am concerned. Currently, I'm just extremely tired, but one of these days, I'll be able to sleep all I want. I think I could function better if I could sleep. But it seems not to be in the cards for now.
Guess I better go and get on the project. I'll try to write next week.
Til Then Keep Writing~

2008-03-10T10:48:00.001-07:00

Life is somewhat back to normal. I started a class last week. It's four weeks long, so that's not bad. The weather is getting warmer. I like that, too. I took baby out this morning, wore him out. He's taking a nap right now. Don't know how long he'll sleep, but we'll see. He was soo tired he didn't even want to finish lunch.
Read some disturbing news this past week in 'Time'. In Michael Kinsley's essay on the last page, he writes about two more biographies being exposed as fakes. I'm surprised that these people just didn't mark them as fiction...especially if like reported all the information is false. Giving them the benefit of the doubt, maybe they don't know the difference between a memoir and fiction. With that said, I'm also surprised that the editors at the houses where these books were published didn't catch something was amiss. The book, Misha: A Memoire of the Holocaust, seems hooey to me just by the description. I would like to know where they found publishing houses that don't check facts. Pooh, my publishing houses want to know why the t's are crossed and the i's are dotted. Sometimes I feel like they're going to make me prove it's really me who turned in my manuscripts. Whew!
I am stunned that people still get away with 'fudging the truth' in published books. It boggles the mind. I guess it's the old adage, 'don't believe everything you read' or get proof before you believe it.
Until Next Time
Keep Writing~

2008-03-04T14:57:00.000-08:00

Whew! I survived last week and so far this week is going along pretty good. Friday before last my washing machine broke. The next day, Saturday, I had to load up all our clothes and take them to the laundry mat. It was pouring rain that day. Who would have thunk it?
The beginning of the week was horrendous. I had to take my daughter's cat to the vet, along with baby. Washing machine guy came later in the day. Had to go by two construction companies for my husband, two banks, the post office, and the accountants, before I dropped baby off. (Haven't gotten taxes done yet. Still working on those.)
The next day, I took my car in--with baby. We sat in the waiting area three and a half hours. They were supposed to change the oil and fix the driver's seat. after these three and a half hours, nothing was done. I had to take it back FRIDAY for oil change and seat fixed.
Wednesday, I was supposed to take the cat back to the vet. Ha! I woke up at 2:30 A.M. to a banging noise. To make a long story short when I finally woke up and started down the hall, it was to the sound of a spewing noise coming from the kitchen. A water pipe broke and flooded the front part of our house. That day was spent dealing with the plumber and Blackman Mooring, sucking water out of our air vents and house.
Thursday, I made it to the Vet. That was an easy day.
Friday, we went back to the car place where we spent the biggest part of the day.
I did attempt to write. I shouldn't complain. I did get 4000 words in. Now if those words are useable remains to be seen. I've not had the heart to edit them yet.
I'm saving that for next week.
See, even writers have real, horrid lives. Ha!
Keep Writing In Spite of Everything.
Til Next Time~

2008-02-21T17:49:00.001-08:00

Life is somewhat back to normal. I started a class last week. It's four weeks long, so that's not bad. The weather is getting warmer. I like that, too. I took baby out this morning, wore him out. He's taking a nap right now. Don't know how long he'll sleep, but we'll see. He was soo tired he didn't even want to finish lunch.
Read some disturbing news this past week in 'Time'. In Michael Kinsley's essay on the last page, he writes about two more biographies being exposed as fakes. I'm surprised that these people just didn't mark them as fiction...especially if like reported all the information is false. Giving them the benefit of the doubt, maybe they don't know the difference between a memoir and fiction. With that said, I'm also surprised that the editors at the houses where these books were published didn't catch something was amiss. The book, Misha: A Memoire of the Holocaust, seems hooey to me just by the description. I would like to know where they found publishing houses that don't check facts. Pooh, my publishing houses want to know why the t's are crossed and the i's are dotted. Sometimes I feel like they're going to make me prove it's really me who turned in my manuscripts. Whew!
I am stunned that people still get away with 'fudging the truth' in published books. It boggles the mind. I guess it's the old adage, 'don't believe everything you read' or get proof before you believe it.
Until Next Time
Keep Writing~

2008-02-21T17:49:00.000-08:00

It's been a few days since I've posted. I've been busy. This past weekend I went out of town to attend a few art classes. They were fun and I definitely needed the distraction and change of pace. I've been keeping baby and attempting to work on my book. It's been challenging to say the least, but I think I've devised a plan that will work so I can get back to work. The past few days have been good. I've been judging a writing contest and writing my words. Wednesday and Thursday, today, I've kept up. I think this plan may work. I'll keep you posted.
For now, I've got to get back to work. Just wanted to touch base today. I'll keep you posted on how my plan is working. I'm also reading a couple books, I hope will help with my depression and lack of motivation.
Until Next Time~
Keep Writing

2008-02-06T12:01:00.000-08:00

Whowweeee! Got another thousand words in today. I am cooking. If only every day could go like this one, I'd be sitting in hog heaven. Baby went down for his nap about 12. I expect him to wake up any minute, but that will be okay. I've got my words in.
It's amazing how great I feel when I get to do some writing. I guess that's a sign I am truly a writer. I know I've said it before, but I love everything about writing--the challenges, the successes, the words. Everything. The only problem I have is I need and want more time. I know some day I will have it and then I'm sure I'll look back on these days and wish for them. Why are we never satisfied? I have so much I want to do, so much I can do if only I had more time. I know the drill. Everybody has 24 hours every day. It's how you manage your time. Been there, done that. I find it very strange. When I was younger, I seemed to have a lot of time on my hands. Now, no matter how much I have, it's not enough. Before I started writing, I used to watch soaps. Time dragged by. One of my writer friends told me the more I got in to writing, the quicker time would go. At first, I didn't believe her, but now I do. I sit down at my keyboard and before I know it time is gone. Like yesterday. I started writing at 1:00. It seemed baby had just gone down for his nap, when I heard him cry. I looked at the time and it was 2:45. I had been writing for an hour and forty five minutes! No break.
Amazing.
I've got to write some emails, so I'll close. Baby will be up soon too.
Til Next Time~

2008-02-05T16:52:00.000-08:00

Today was a pretty good day. I got some work in despite the fact that baby didn't sleep very much. I actually slept through the night, too. That was a major miracle considering I haven't slept all the way through the night for months.
I need to get to work on taxes and another book proposal. I'm behind on both of those. Yikes!
Went and voted today...for whatever good that did. Typically, I try not to talk about politics, not that there is much to talk about. It seems I am disappointed in all the candidates-Republican and Democrat. It was hard to choose which one to vote for and in the end I voted for what I hope is the lesser of all the evils. Sad, sad, but so true.
Okay, back to writing. That area seems to be safer. :-)
Tomorrow I have big writing plans again. What about you? Remember a page or two pages a day will equal a book in a year.
Til Next Time Keep Writing~

2008-02-04T17:39:00.000-08:00

Behind again. That seems to be the story of my life. I try to be good at keeping up with things and trying to stay on top of everything, but life gets in the way. Before I know it, a week and sometimes weeks pass before I know it's even gone.
Today the weather was very nice and I took the grandbaby outside. He loved it. He took off up the hill and walked all the way to the neighbor's house. I enjoyed being outside, too. Besides all the other stuff I've had to deal with, I've been fighting a black cloud of depression. Can't seem to kick it. It's a struggle to get out of bed in the morning, but with baby coming at 6, that's really a mute issue.
Tomorrow is the big voting day. I don't know who in the world to vote for. To be honest, I don't like anybody and that's not like me. I usually like somebody. Maybe it's because of the whole depression thing. I guess when I go in to the booth tomorrow, I'll go with my gut feeling. Hmmm. Don't know about that either. Lately, my gut feelings haven't been too productive.
With that said, I will close. I really should go, get to work. Will write more in a few days.
In the meantime, you guys keep writing out there. That's the only way to stay sane in this weird mixed up world.
Til Next Time~

2008-01-30T10:00:00.000-08:00

Time slips away on me before I know it. I do hope to get better at posting here. If I don't post everyday, I forget about posting at all. Yikes! Anyway, I'm still on my diet. Not doing too bad. Have lost some. It's going slow, buuuutt I didn't put it on overnight. I could lose more if I could exercise. My knees hurt me all the time. I don't know if I pulled the ligaments, or what. I'm taking something now and I hope it helps.
Another that has put me behind is my daughter fell off a step and broke her ankle. She finally got it cast on Monday, so now I'm trying to catch up on everything.
Still working on the books, but now I'm behind. Yikes!
Will try to write more later on in the week.
Til Then, keep writing.

2008-01-07T15:43:00.000-08:00

Hello there! Wow, I can't believe almost a month has passed since I last wrote. I've been to Colorado, finished all my magazine assignments (thank goodness), got the Christmas shopping all done, had and recovered from Strep. Yes, the past month has been a busy one, but now it's time to buckle down and get to work on a few writing new writing projects. I also have to get some OWFI business done aaaaaannd work on some of my clients' pieces. To say I'm behind AGAIN would be an understatement, but I'll just work at night until I get caught up. Yes, I am still watching baby and he is cuter than ever. He's walking and giving open mouth kisses now. And boy does he looooove those kisses.
Aaaaaaaaand I'm on a diet. I'm doing Richard Simmons again. I didn't exercise today. Got up at 4. Hoped to take a nap so I'd feel better, but baby only took three 20 minute power naps today. I did stick to the eating program though. I think Richard might be proud. Ha!
Must run. Going to get supper on. Not to worry. Everything is healthy--roasted chicken, rosemary potatoes and green beans. The pounds will come off. They've got to. I can't fit in any of my clothes. Yikes!
Okay, I'll try to write later on in the week.
Until then, keep writing.

2007-12-10T09:28:00.000-08:00

Yikes! The ice storm doesn't cometh, it is hereth. The limbs on our trees are almost on the ground. One branch broke earlier this morning and crashed into our fence. Thank goodness we don't have to worry about animals escaping.
We still have electricity. Unfortunately, both our kids don't. Our daughter who lives in Kansas lost hers two nights ago. Our son and his wife lost theirs about two hours ago. We have little baby, so I'm hoping we keep ours on. So far, so good. Our electrical lines are underground, but the transformers are up on poles. As long as those hold, we'll be good. If those go, welll.... We do keep flickering. Went off for a little bit then came back on. But hey, as long as it's on, I say that's good.
I am almost completely caught up with my writing assignments. Got to do some edits today. Then later on in the week, I'll edit the two interviews I've done. Should be finished in plenty of time before we take off for Christmas. I don't plan to be back in this office until January 5.
So, if I don't get a chance to write before then, happy holidays to everyone reading this.
Until Next Time~

2007-12-05T09:59:00.000-08:00

To blog everyday or NOT to blog everyday. That seems to be the question. I was making an attempt to blog every day and then I read that wasn't necessary and readers actually didn't like it when one blogged every day. Then, I read just over the last week that one should blog every day because it allows the search engines more words so you can be found and readers want to know what the blogger is doing.
I'm thinking maybe they would want to know what celebrities are doing and maybe if my family and I were working on a project, readers would want to read a daily blog, but just me...I don't know.
I guess it boils down to each his own-how he feels about the blog and if he has anything to say. If I was on a grand tour or if I had made the Bestseller's List and was being interviewed by Matt Lauer or Oprah, then I might have cause to blog every day. As it stands now, I think probably once a week is good for me.
Until Next Week...or if I get a call from M or O.

2007-11-26T18:23:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a nice Thanksgiving! It was hectic for me. I enjoyed the time spent with family, even though it went too fast. And then on the flip side, I'm glad it's over. I always stress out trying to be all things to all people. One would think after all these years, I'd have learned to 'chill'. Maybe some day.
I'm almost finished with Nano this year. I'm up over 43,000 words. I should definitely finish this week with flying colors. Allison, my friend, has already finished. I'm sure a lot of others have finished too, but I'm just plodding along. My goal this year with Nano was to write everyday and get in to a habit of doing so. I have accomplished that, I think. It's been fun.
I've been working on my articles. I should have those finished soon, too. And then I can concentrate on a other projects.
My grandbaby is growing by leaps and bounds. He is the most precious thing in the world. He loves to read and we read his books several times a day. He is taking a few steps every day. We think he'll be walking by Christmas.
That's it for now. I'll write more when I catch up.
Til then, keep writing.

2007-11-14T12:36:00.000-08:00

Hello All! How has your week gone? Mine has been a busy one. My grandson had a doctor's appointment Monday. I had one yesterday. During all this I have been working on Nano. I am up to 23,576 words now. Nearing the middle way point. Thunderous applause please! :-)
I have also been working on the two samples for one of my editors, the two interview pieces for another, and yet another article for a different editor. It occurred to me as I was doing some research for the last article mentioned that I dooo love what I do.
I simply can not imagine my life without writing, words, books. As I was contemplating my choice of careers, I realized I would write even if I won the lottery or more realistically, a rich uncle died and left me all his money. I love the process, trying to figure out the right way to tell a story, and looking for that right word to convey my meaning.
Writing, for me, is like breathing. What does it mean to you?
Til Next Time~

2007-11-05T12:34:00.000-08:00

Hello all! Returned from the Festival. It seemed a good time was had by all. I had a good time. It was nice to get back amongst adults and writer adults at that. I saw some friends I hadn't seen since May and then some I hadn't seen longer than that. Made some new friends too, which is always nice. One writer, Tera Leigh, I was particularly thrilled to meet. She has written several art books for North Light. I almost fell off my chair. How exciting is that? A writer and artist-a woman after my own heart. Ha!
I started doing the Nano Writing Month Thursday, November 1. So far I have kept up with my word count. Today I turned in close to 8500 words total. I think I'm on a roll with this story...at least the part I wrote today. Two days ago I decided the pages I had written two days earlier will have to go. Still feel that way, but I may be getting in to a steady pattern. Time will tell so we'll have to see.
It's back to the deadlines now.
Until next time, keep writing.

2007-10-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

Wow! Sorry it's been a while since I've updated this blog. I've been somewhat busy catching up on some art projects, watching baby, keeping up with writing assignments, and getting ready for Nano Month.
Today in this blog, I'll be giving updates, telling new news, and sharing some exciting news.
First, the updates. I'm feeling better. I am behind on everything which makes me nuts, but I'm hoping to get ahead on all that soon. Right now, I lie awake at night thinking of all the stuff I should be up doing. Yikes!
Grandbaby has four teeth now and he knows how to use them. He likes to use gammy as a mountain, so he's climbing all over me and clumping down on the other side.
Still haven't started the infamous diet, but plan to soon. I did get my exercise bike cleaned off, so it's ready to go.
Second, new news. I'm doing Nano again this year and am excited. Last year, I wrote a book, but midway through realized the direction I was heading would not take me to publication. This year, I've got some wonderful characters and a plot that should (fingers crossed) carry through to publication. Nano Month will be the start of it. I think then I can finish, rewrite, and have a publishable story. Yippppeeeee!
Tomorrow, I leave for four days to attend a Book Festival. I do two sessions and a booksigning. It will be nice to be surrounded by other writers, just the spur on I need for November.
Finally, the exciting news. I received an email today which informed me I won the "Irish Lottery". How exciting is that? To win something I didn't even enter. Will wonders never cease? I won't be holding my breath until the check arrives and won't be responding. After all, if I won without entering, I'm sure they can find where to send the check. Ha!
Until next time, keep writing!
Til Then~

2007-10-15T11:17:00.001-07:00

Slowly, and I use that word strongly, getting back in to the swing of things. Medication is almost gone, so is the pain. Thank goodness. Two weeks ago tomorrow, I got up was feeling fine, until 9:00 A.M., then whammo. I had this most incredible pain in my right side. Doctors thought it was my appendix, but come to find out it was a kidney stone. By the time verything was said and done, I had to have surgery and have been recouperating. But enough about that.
I spent last week attending a conference online. It was wonderful. I learned a lot and highly recommend you to sign up for next year. Go to www.museonlineconference.com and check it out. It ran for an entire week. There was a mix of sessions--poetry, children's, fiction, non-fiction, the business end, and inspirational end. Such a mix of people too. I was quite impressed with everything that went on. We received handouts, links to suggested sites, etc. I can't wait for next year!!!!
Today, I signed up again for the Nano-National Writing Month. If you've never done that, you need to. I learned a lot last year and am looking forward to this year, although I have NO idea what I'm going to write about now. It will come to me.
That's all for now. I'll write again next week.
Til Then~
Keep Writing

2007-10-05T05:20:00.000-07:00

Hello All~
Just a short note to let you know it may be a few weeks before I catch up here. Just got out of the hospital. Had to have emergency surgery. Currently on pain meds, so I'm somewhat loopy. Will write all about it later.
Til Next Time~

2007-09-24T17:03:00.000-07:00

Writing is hard work. Face it. Anyone who does write, knows that. People who don't, think it's an easy, woos job. As much as I hate to clean toilets, I have grabbed my scrubber and gone after it, when I've been stuck on a scene or my characters aren't behaving like I think they should. But on the days that the writing is going well, it can turn your life around. I remember getting up from the keyboard and thinking 'wow, today I feel like a writer'. That's the good days.
How many good days have you had this month? For me, not enough.
Til Next Time~

2007-09-23T13:08:00.000-07:00

Have been playing catch-up today. It's amazing how things can get so far behind if you don't stay on top of them. I think I have a system now. We'll see how next week goes. Ha!
I've got to get another email interview ready. Still trying to find out what happened to the last one I sent. It seems to be missing--at least my subject hasn't written that she has received it. She could be out of town, etc. I sent her another email so hopefully I will hear from her soon.
Time for me to get back on the proposal too. Argh!
Think I'm going to go do some artsy-fartsy things while I'm thinking of the interview questions for subject 2. Seem to think better when emmersed in art.
Til Next Time~

2007-09-22T16:38:00.001-07:00

I gave the wrong URL for the NanoWriter group. The correct one is http://www.nanowrimo.org/.
Be sure to check it out.
Til Next Time~

2007-09-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

I received an email today that reminded me of the Nano Month coming up in November. I've been wishy-washy, trying to decide if I want to join this year. I thought I wouldn't and then today thought I might go ahead and try it. I did so enjoy myself last year. Even though the book I wrote will no doubt never see the light of day, it was fun. Since I have almost talked myself in to joining, I am pondering a topic to write about. I'm leaning toward somethiing experimental, maybe sci-fi or nightmare horrish. I'll have to see.
If you are interested in joining this year, check out the website, www.nano.org. Chris said the site would be down until October 1. They are refurbishing it to get ready for November. But think about joining. It's fun and if nothing else the experience will teach you a lot.
Til Next Time~

2007-09-21T16:31:00.001-07:00

Hello All! I can not believe how time flies. In a few days fall will be here. I honestly don't know what happened to summer. It was here and now gone. Wow!
I have continued to write something, even though it may be something small, all through the summer. A little bit eventually equals a lot. It's like the saying, how do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time.
No matter how little time you have to write, write a little something every day. It will eventually add up. One page, or 250 words a day, at the end of the year even if only written Monday through Friday, will still add up to 240 pages.
So, start with baby steps. They are all part of getting to your goal.
Keep writing and having fun.
Til Next Time~

2007-09-13T14:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a good writing day. I worked on a number of projects. Didn't complete any, but put a dent in several. Today, I had to go to town, so that put a chink in my armor, but there is always tomorrow.
Have received several books I've got to get to reading. Almost one interview ready to go and have the overview for that one book written. Things are looking up.
One small mouse step at a time, I told myself yesterday when I was on the verge of a collapse. I will reach my goals if it's the last thing I do.
Til Next Time~

2007-09-12T07:13:00.000-07:00

I hope some of you were able to visit the Muse Online Writers Conference website. I'm looking forward to the conference. It will be a new experience for me. I want to check it out and see how online conferences may help my career.
With that said, for those of you who aren't aware, Maria Schneider, editor of Writer's Digest Magazine, has a blog. She discusses varying topics, but this morning I was particularly intersted in her subject--rejection. Had to chuckle at some of the responses she received. It seems to be a 'universal truth' that everyone gets rejected. Through the years, rejection has become one of those things to me. Yes, it's there, it happens, but doesn't make me want to stop writing and submitting. I just look at it as one of those occupational hazards--speeding tickets, hair in restaurant food, spaghetti stains on white business shirt, and hitting every green light in town when you leave so you'll have plenty of time to get through the red lights on your way to your doctor's appointment.
Maybe we should have our own bumper sticker which reads, 'Rejection Happens!'. I don't know though. The masses may get the wrong idea, but who knows....
In the meantime, for those lamenting the 51st rejection of your novel, you might want to purchase the book, "Rotten Rejections". When I get low and begin questioning my writing and marketing ability, I pull this slim volume off the shelf and flip through the pages. I always smile at the rejection sent to Anne Frank for "The Diary of Anne Frank", 1952. It read, "The girl doesn't, it seems to me, have a special perception or feeling which would lift the book above the 'curiosity' level." Or, a rejection sent to Zane Grey (1908) for his "The Last of the Plainsmen". His rejection read, "I do not see anything in this to convince ne you can write either narrative or fiction". Ouch!
So chin up. Don't get discouraged. Rejection happens! Be proud it happens to you. It puts you in a special class of writers--working ones.
Til Next Time~

2007-09-10T03:11:00.000-07:00

This will be short, but hopefully sweet. I wanted to write and give you a website to check out. I first read about this in Writer's Digest or on one of their blog pages. It is http://www.freewebs.com/themuseonlinewritersconference/. This site holds and annual free conference. It runs for a week and is free. I signed up some time ago. I'm not sure if there are any spaces still available, but you might want to check. It looks very promising. The conference takes place in October.
Must run for now. Baby is coming. I only have him for two days this week, so I'll write more about this conference site later.
Til Then~

2007-08-27T10:18:00.000-07:00

Thought I'd post today. Was going to put something down over the weekend, but got busy doing other things.
I have been reading another book titled "Thoughts are Things". I've heard the statement over and over again, but this author makes the argument about how the perceptions we have of ourselves are generally shaped by other people. For instance, if we hear over and over again that publishing is a tough business and it is difficult to break in to, it can be. I've had friends who totally lost hope of ever being published.
Some people get great ideas, but they never follow through with them and thus never fulfill any of their dreams or reach their goals. I've believed for a long time that no idea comes without there being a way to make it come true. Sure it may take some time to come up with how to pull it off and it may take some work, but if the idea is good enough, it will take shape.
I've heard "great minds think alike" for years. I am only now beginning to understand what that means.
The universe puts ideas in to several people's minds at the same time. Why? Because the universe knows only one or two may act on the idea--perhaps one quicker than the other. I've heard writers complain that editors steal their story ideas. Or how many times have you had an idea for an article or book, you don't get on it right away, and then months, sometimes years down the road, you'll read the article on the topic you have written or a similar book to the one you thought about hits the stands.
You are in control of your destiny. Only you can make the moves quickly and efficiently enough to get you where you want to go.
It is slowly sinking in to my inner mind. Is it yours?
Til Next Time~

2007-08-19T13:07:00.000-07:00

First, let me tell you we are safe here. Have friends who are struggling with the recent 'hurricane' that passed through the state, but we will help them get back on their feet. Last night was weird to say the least. We went over to my sister-in-law's house to play cards, but the electricity kept going out so we had to call it an early night. When we left, we kept seeing big blue flashes of light where the wind whipped the trees in to the power lines. We got home and yes it was raining, but we've gotten somewhat used to rain here in the state of Oklahoma.
Anyway, woke up this morning and it seems the storm turned in to a 'hurricane'. This is not my word, but what the National Weather Service is calling it. The storm formed a perfect 'eye' and acted like a hurricane. Who am I to nay-say the NWS?
But alas, the 'hurricane', as strange as that was to the state, is not why I write here.
I have a few links I want everybody to visit. They will cost you nothing, but may be worth everything to you. The first is http://wonderofitall.com/ and the second, http://greatday.com/motivate/index.html.
As I told you in an earlier blog, I read a book that has totally trasformed my life. I admit I have always been a weird duck, but I truly believe in the power of a person's subconscious, the words he speaks, the things he thinks on, and his success.
We must all believe it if we are to reach our goals.
Many years ago, I was pooh-poohed in my family for talking about the power of the subconscious (yes it was long before I read this book). My grandmother as usual was right there to support me. "God wouldn't have given you a brain if he didn't intend for you to use it," she said. I believe that with every fiber of my being. Our thoughts become things.
Come om people. Get on the stick. We've got to make our dreams come true. We've got to get those stories written and those books published. We've got to show the rest of the world that it can be done!!!!!!!!!!!
Enough for today. I am tired, but there is an excitement bubbling within me. There has been for some time. I don't know what it is, what's going to happen, but I'm willing to 'trust' that feeling and nobody, I mean NOBODY, is going to bring me down.
Til Next Time~

2007-08-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

Wow! I knew it had been a few days since I posted, but I didn't realize it had been over a week. Good grief! Where does the time go?
The biggest reason I've not written is I've been doing research and reading until I'm almost blind. I stir supper with one hand while holding a book with the other. I have a couple interview articles to write and I'm reading the authors' books. After my vision becoming blurry about 2: 00 AM a few morning's ago, I decided there would be no way I could read ALL the books these authors have written, so I'm opting for the ones that look interesting to me. That's 9 for one author and gulp, 9 for the other. I have to have the books read by September 10, when I have to have questions ready, etc.
Ah well, such is the life.
I've also been reading some self-improvement books. There has been quite a bit of discussion about The Secret on several of the loops I'm on. I have found a book that is so much more powerful than TS. It is titled "The Power of Your Subconscious Mind". First published in 1963, it has been reprinted and reprinted. I picked my book up at Barnes and Noble. You can read it for free by visiting this website-- http://www.livethepower.com/home.html.
I have read both books and I must tell you, "TPOYSM" is better than "The Secret". When I finished reading THE SECRET, I still wasn't sure what the 'secret' was. I thought it was 'thoughts are things', but wasn't sure. In 'The Power...." you know what the secret is and Joseph Murphy gives the reader tools he can use right away.
In several of the chapters, he shares how writers can use their subconscious to find answers to writing problems. I am going to start recommending this book to all my writing friends and students. It is definitely a "must" read.
Back to reading...and writing.
Til Next Time~

2007-08-07T07:39:00.000-07:00

Back from my trip. Ran to Kansas to see my grandparents. They were doing as fine as can be expected. It was a nice trip.
Now, it's back to work. And there's piles of it lying around. I've got so much to do, thinking about it makes me dizzy.
My son kept the grandson today, so I am trying to catch up. Not an easy task and not sure I can do it in a day, but I think I can make a little headway.
Something I should pass along to you. Writer's Digest recently had their conference..I believe it is held in Hawaii. They recorded many of the sessions with their speakers and has made them available online. The Keynote address with Jodi Picoult is free. The website is www.writersdigest.com/bea. You should really go check this out. I watched Jodi's address last night and learned some thing...yes even after writing as long as I have been writing. So, go check it out and let me know what you think.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-08-03T07:35:00.001-07:00

Attempting to get baby on a schedule. I laughed at myself when I started thinking about this yesterday. I like to think I run a tight ship, am disciplined, and keep things in order. With babies, that is a little unrealistic. You sleep when they sleep or work when they sleep and when they are awake and want attention, you give it to them. Period. No questions asked.
I'm getting back in to the swing of things. I wrote and raised two children, so I am fairly certain I can get in to the swing of things with my grandson.
I will tell you what I am really looking forward to and that is the day, he'll be able to draw and color with me. I've already been looking at some art sets for him.
We read every day. He has a peekaboo book, the "Hello Bee, Hello Me" book, and two puppy books. He loves to read and will sit quietly and look at the pictures as I read to him. Lately, I've been singing the Gilligan Song to him. He laughs. I told him when he's older we'll watch Gilligan. That was one of his dad's favorite shows.
Yes, being a grandmother is fun. I am building up an arsenal of article ideas to write about. He's given me some new slants.
Til Next Time~

2007-08-02T13:13:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a few days since I've written. Trying to get beyond some personal events. You know when things happen and they knock you for a loop. Sometimes though I swear I feel like one of those punching bag clowns. You know the ones for kids--when you hit him, he falls to the ground, but pops right back up. That's me. In the past, I've always gotten up pretty quickly, now I tend to be a little slower. Anywho....
Haven't been sleeping well for the past week. Getting ready to go to Kansas, see if I can alleviate some guilt. Long story. Not looking forward to the trip, but one will do what one must do.
Off to check email and finish up a piece. Maybe later, I can work on an art project.
Til Later~

2007-07-25T08:59:00.000-07:00

Today, I am trying to get info sent for a Book Festival I will be attending in November. I also need to send off some info for a class a friend wants me to teach. Good grief, just when I catch up, I get behind.
Baby is sleeping right now. I doubt if he will sleep long. That is why I write like a madwoman while he is resting. I love the little fellow. He just grins and jumps around, so excited about everything around him. To get back to that kind of excitement, that would be nice.
I have been watching the interviews the stations are doing with J.K. Wow! To be in her shoes. She has come a long way from where she began. It has been a wild ride and now she never has to worry about money again. It can happen in such a short amount of time. Passion and committment is all it takes.
Off to work on proposals.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-07-24T09:41:00.000-07:00

Didn't get much accomplished yesterday, so today I am trying to be a much more disciplined writer. Baby is taking a nap right now. I so thought about taking a nap with him oooorrr just sitting in front of the tube, but NO, I told myself, 'get up and get to work'.
My husband and I have been working on a business for some time now. Since we take pictures and know tons of people who take pictures, this seemed like the perfect fit. We've always known that businesses take time, especially when we are working other jobs. Our goal is to get where he can quit his job and I can write without having to worry about teaching to make up for slack. Anywho, we've not been discouraged, because things are going quite well, we've just been doing what we know to do. But sometimes my husband can get impatient. Last night though, we were on a conference call where the speaker said, 'yes, you have goals, but as long as you work steadily, do something every day, you'll reach your goals. Don't think you have to do it all at once."
As she spoke, I thought that's the same way it is with writing. I recently had someone ask me how long it took me to write a book. I told her it depended. As I wrote earlier in the week, I finished the second rough draft of this one book I've been working on. It's going to need at LEAST two more rewrites before I can think about sitting down and line editing it. Things take time. Rome wasn't built in a day. Books aren't written overnight. But as long as I get away from the boob tube, don't lounge around, and write one word after another, day after day, I will complete my projects and reach my writing goals.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-07-23T07:04:00.000-07:00

It's getting ready to storm here, but I thought I'd write real quickly. I finished up the new rough draft of the book. I'm letting it sit for about six weeks, then I'm going to start back through it. This time, I'm going to rework the first three chapters, write the synopsis, and start sending it out and around. It may take a couple more rewrites before I get down to the line editing, but I'll get through it.
In the meantime, I'm going to put two non-fiction proposals together and get them out. I've got to get busy on those. I did finally figure out how I was going to do the one, so now it will be much easier and when I get to work on it should go pretty fast.
Baby is awake. Must run. Besides I hear thunder.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-07-19T05:39:00.000-07:00

Tada! Here again. I got so much work done yesterday, even I am a little surprised. My grandson slept for five hours straight and I worked like a woman on a mission. He is so precious. He's sleeping right now too.
I plan to work over the weekend too. I've got a few things to finish up, out in the world, but I think I'll have a lot of time to work here.
Today, I've got to get a press release written about my booksigning at Barnes and Noble, next Saturday. That shouldn't take too long, but it has to be done today.
Have written a lot of friends. Hope to hear back from them soon too.
Hubby keeps talking about junking everything here and just moving to Colorado. I'd love to do that, but one must have a roof over one's head...if you know what I mean.
I'll write more tomorrow.
Til Then~

2007-07-18T06:18:00.000-07:00

I got a good night's sleep last night, so today I am going to try and get a lot of work done. I know I have just been slacking off for the past few months using little baby as an excuse. A person can do whatever he wants to do and will make time to do it if he is motivated enough. I know this and I've always known it. The more I see and hear about authors who have made it big, the more I want that.
While baby has sucked some of my time, he has given me something more--the discipline and ability to get up early and get around. I used to stay up late at night, not doing anything, sleep until 10 or so, and still not get much done. Even though it has been tough at times, I admit the rewards far outweigh the other experiences.
Change takes some adjusting to. I'm adjusting and I hope growing through all my set-backs and triumphs.
Keep plugging on, no matter what comes your way. We're all in this together. Things may look bleak, but they get better. Such is being human.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-07-17T16:05:00.000-07:00

Time flies by, doesn't it? I was going to write here on Saturday, but instead opted to work on my book--which I did. I still have two scenes to go, but once again I'm hoping to finish it this week.
Last night, I spoke at a lady's group. It was a lovely bunch of ladies. I talked about journaling.
I've got a thing to do this Saturday and then next Saturday have a booksigning.
Now, I've just got to get on my other books.
Baby is doing fine. He's screaming now, which has become his favorite past time. Our cat looks at him like he's crazy. He's also eating cereal--I should say blowing cereal. The pictures are priceless.
Going to get some rest tonight and I'll write more tomorrow.
Til Then~

2007-07-13T10:43:00.000-07:00

Hello All! I am writing this while holding my grandson. Currently, he is chewing on his plastic keys. Any minute now he may decide he wants to type, but we'll cross that bridge when we get to it. He loves hugs and kisses and I make sure he gets plenty.
Worked some this morning..okay, I got through all my emails. I am determined to finish that book. I have all the scenes worked out in my mind. Now, all it takes is some computer time. Going to get that done and then work on a few proposals while I'm letting that cool a bit.
My grandbaby may have to help. He's pretty intelligent. Already talking and singing you know. :-)
Must run. We're getting restless.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-07-11T10:16:00.000-07:00

I'm back. Returned from Colorado a few days ago. Have been frantically trying to catch up on things I'm behind on. I know I will probably never catch up, but it's nice to be optimistic. It seems the more I clean, file, unpack, and pull out, the more there is to do. I keep telling myself one pile at a time. It seems though that the one pile turns into five. It's like a fungus.
So far have survived the floods. It is supposed to rain again and I guess quite a bit tomorrow night and into Friday morning. Not looking forward to that.
Am still working on finishing up the book. I have like two or three scenes left. I know exactly what they are about, now I just have to find the time to write them. I was going to finish the blasted thing in Colorado, took evreything I needed, was ready to go, but talked myself in to relaxing while I was there. Bad, bad girl.
Now, I'm working on my calendar, trying to get my jobs in order, etc. I have to get better at this. The one thing I DID accomplish while away was I figured out and decided on a way to start the Writing Program Book, so....
Must run and email my writing partner. Good grief, she probably thinks I've fallen off the face of the earth.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-06-25T07:40:00.000-07:00

Good morning! I've not written for a while because I've been ill. Actually my entire family had the stomach flu for about a week. I've never gone to bed with such a thing, but with this one I did. Feeling better though and today watching my grandbaby again. They do grow so fast.
This is a catch-up day too. Have a lot to get done before we head to Colorado for a bit. Neighbors are watching the place and then our kids will be in and out because they can't go, have to stay and work.
Going to finish the book this week-well the rough draft. Exciting times are afoot. Limber up your fingers, get ready to write.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-06-19T17:33:00.000-07:00

It's getting ready to storm again. Yesterday I did over a thousand words. Today, haven't been so lucky. Husband was sick last night and today he had a doctor's appointment. Things are in limbo sort of. We are trying a treatment and seeing if it will work. I'll keep you posted.
I've got to work on some marketing tonight. Also to write in my journal. I've got to find my discipline and get on with it. I rode my bike 7 miles this morning. So I guess that's something.
Oh, thunder. Will close.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-06-16T17:03:00.000-07:00

I have decided to start working on my books at night. That doesn't leave much time for sleep, but I have quiet time then and no interruption. Other people have risen before they have gone to work and wrote. Others have written riding on a train or bus on they way to work. While others have written standing over a washing machine. Surely, surely, I can write a few hours before I go to bed at night. I have three projects I should be in the middle of. So far, I'm only in the middle of one.
That will change. I've just got to be determined. You know I wonder what happened to my resolve. I used to be so disciplined. I can't remember exactly when that discipline went away. I must get it back though. I must and I will.
Until then I will keep the faith. That's all I can do.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-06-15T16:22:00.001-07:00

I am writing in between storm deluges. Good grief. It is supposed to rain some more, but frankly I don't know where we're going to put it. I have told friends and family, we need to consider building an ark. I am standing by that statement.
Didn't work again today. Plan on changing that tonight. I am going to work tonight after my husband goes to bed. I'm going to work on that proposal and on my word count for the book. I'm up to 170 pages and need to go back in and add quite a bit of stuff. Looks like I may have a book afterall. I was becoming a little worried at around page 110. Wasn't sure my story would stretch out to a whole book. Looks like I don't have to worry about that though. I'm excited about the project. Want to get through the rough draft, so I can write the synopsis, get the first three chapters cleaned up, and get it mailed out. Then we'll see what happens. I know it will sell. I just have to get it finished.
Must run. Thunder is rumbling in the background.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-06-13T12:14:00.001-07:00

This will be short. I'm in between storms right now and am determined to get some work done today. I was up late last night working on some things. The books are coming. Slowly but surely. Sometimes I see myself as a turtle, plodding along one small step at a time. As long as life doesn't speed by and whirl me in the wrong direction, I should be fine.
Off to do my words.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-06-12T18:51:00.000-07:00

Today, I accomplished nothing. Nada. Zilch. Zip. I feel terrible!!! Okay, there it is. I've said it and now I'm moving on. Tomorrow, I hope is better. Baby was not feeling good today, so we had a bad, unproductive time. I am getting ready to go in and do something in my office because my dh is watching basketball. YUK! There's too many things I can be doing than sitting here wasting my time on this. So, I'll close this down and catch you tomorrow.
Til Then~

2007-06-11T13:04:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness. I can't believe it has already been five days since I've written my blog. I've been trying to catch up. I had so many email messages I needed to go through and delete or respond to. Some I needed to keep because they are ongoing. I figured out how to make new files in Outlook, so I've been doing that and moving the emails. I think this will make me more efficient. It will either do that or I'll lose some things. Yikes!
I've completed my 1000 words for today. Getting ready to get some mail ready to go. Still have a number of things to do yet, but I'll get to it. Most everything else I can take to the living room and work on. I may not make it to bed by 8, like I have been doing through the week, but at least I'll have everything on my list done.
Off to take my grandbaby by and get groceries. Looks like it's going to storm too. Yikes!
Til Tomorrow~

2007-06-07T10:44:00.001-07:00

As promised, here is an update. Currently, my little grandbaby is sitting in his seat talking to the books on the bookshelf. He's going to be a writer. I can feel it in my bones.
Yesterday, I DID get my 1000 words in. I actually went over and that's great considering I was a little short the day before. Going to get back on it here in a bit. I worked on some marketing things, answered email, exercise, even got to work on some ATCs. Today, I am planning on being just as productive.
Must run now and get to the email. Will keep you posted on my writing adventures.
Til Tomorrow~

2007-06-06T00:27:00.000-07:00

Aha! I bet you never thought you'd see me blog this early, but as the Jimmy Buffet song says, "it's 5:00 somewhere". I'm sure of it. No, in truth, I went to bed early last night in the hopes that I would wake up early so I could get up and work on my book for a while before my grandbaby came over. I am finding it a little difficult to work with him here since his sleeping habits seem to be changing, so I am changing my schedule to fit his. Of course, I'm not sure if it will fit the rest of the world's, but oh well. One must do what one must do to become a published writer and if writing at 2:30 in the morning will do it, then I will do that.
I am determined to not only finish this book, but also get to work on the other one my friend and I are working on, and the writer's book. I will be all to all people. My house may go to pot, buuuuttt sacrifices MUST be made.
Okay, enough. I'm off to get my 1000 words in. I'll let you know when (and if) I get back to bed tomorrow.
Til Then~

2007-06-05T17:31:00.000-07:00

Today, it could be said, was not a good one. I woke up this morning unable to hear. My daughter's cat ate my breakfast while I was folding clothes. My grandbaby decided he didn't want to sleep at all and between the doorbell and phone ringing, who can blame him.
I attempted to work on my book, but that didn't happen. I did exercise and do yoga, but that threw me into not getting cleaned up until 1:30.
Tomorrow is a new day and I plan to do better. I will get this figured out. I'll let you know.
Til Then~

2007-06-04T10:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, new day, new life. It has finally stopped raining. That makes me feel better just in itself. I kept my grandson over the weekend. He slept good over night, just I didn't. Threw everything in to a kilter, then my daughter was home over the weekend. She always wants to go and do. I don't know why she just can't sit still. Anywho....
Now, it's time to get on everything. I've got to get caught up. So many things I've been meaning to do. I've got to finish up grading papers for my student. Get on the Oklahoma Writers' Federation stuff, get some addresses for people who I've been promising things, get my email organized, get a newsletter started, get an exercise program worked out, plus work on my book projects. Thank goodness, my grandbaby is a good sleeper!
So, I'm off to begin. Won't even begin to bore you with all the filing that needs to be done. I'll write tomorrow and let you know how today has gone.
Til Then~

2007-05-31T10:36:00.000-07:00

I was sitting here at my keyboard, thinking there was something I should no doubt be doing. Then I remembered not only the blog, but a contest entry I have been working on. Currently working on is a relative term. It has been sitting on my desk and I haven't looked at it since last week. The contest deadline is tomorrow.
Will I make it? I'm not sure, but I'm going to try. The thing needs an entire rewrite. I had my critique partner look it over last week. She made the same comments I was feeling. Then for some reason, I have suffered brain death. I hate it when I get scattered and can't concentrate.
Off to go see what I can do with it. I'll let you know if I make the deadline tomorrow.
Til Then~

2007-05-30T10:07:00.000-07:00

It's been a few days since I've written. I took a few days off. Slowly getting back to it and catching up again. Today, I've got to get in my 1000 words and do some book-keeping. I'm so very behind on that. It's amazing how much bookwork there can be, even though you are your only workforce. One of these days I'm going to hire an assistant. Until I can, I will continue doing what I do.
More tomorrow.
Til Then~