tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-72637648161177369392024-02-06T21:47:06.106-05:00Inky Letters on Blank PagesChristine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comBlogger522125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-24464686536161552962018-04-16T11:55:00.001-04:002018-04-16T11:55:27.894-04:00Under Constant RevisionIsn't this the truth? With whatever you do, if something doesn't work you revise. Many years ago, I decided to travel on this path to publication. I had written for many years, but never thought to get serious. At the time, writing was lots of words on paper that created something that was a story. At least in my head. When I read it now, those words need a ton of work. <br />
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Over the years, manuscripts were written and finished, then rewritten, revised and finished. It doesn't end there. It goes on and on, a constant circle. Really, I'm still revising manuscripts I wrote eight years ago. Writing is just like life. We grow and change then revise who we are, hopefully becoming a better human. It's not an easy feat. There are pains and aches through any process. I try to keep this in mind, because just existing is not an option. Living life is. Experiencing things are. Enjoying loved ones is.<br />
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This is where I am. I'm trying to not only write and revise a manuscript to hopefully (fingers crossed) get published one day (the near future would be ideal), but to also revise me as a mom, wife, friend, sister, daughter to those around me. Finding time and energy is what is hard. And, trust me, there is no special magic that will make it all flow in the easiest way possible. If there was--I would have it. It would be very awesome. The only magic I know of is tea and chocolate, which doesn't help my waistline. The thing is unless we try different things we will never know if they will work or if what we are doing is helping us grow.<br />
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Mistakes are the things that are hard to swallow. I'm a perfectionist, so mistakes are usually like a jab in my stomach. No one likes to make mistakes, but they are the only way we will know how to fix a problem in the first place. Really, it's true. We may have a fit after we make one, but in the end you learn something.<br />
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So, if you are stuck in the rut of--why am I doing this? Why do I keep going back and changing rearranging then doing it all over again? Think of yourself. Your life. You didn't get this far by staying the same.<br />
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What keeps you going when revising?<br />
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Have a great day!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-57523722370036233222018-01-17T10:29:00.001-05:002018-01-17T10:29:52.862-05:00Life can be crazySo, life is crazy. It happens. There have been times that I've been asked on how do I keep it straight. There is no real answer to this. For me, it is just getting through what needs to be done. Between home obligations, kids schedules, volunteer stuff, and just plain surviving, it's hard to take time for you. Writing sometimes seems like a distant friend you want to get in touch with.<br />
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Through the years, I've tried many different things to get back on track. I would get frustrated when I didn't get done what I wanted to do, especially on the writing front (who doesn't get upset at that?). Writing is a process and sometimes rituals have to happen to get into the mood. It isn't easy especially when you like routine like myself. Sometimes it is hard for me to change gears, which can make my insides tighten and my eyes squint. My frustration level can rise well over 1,000. <br />
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The one thing I realized is you have to be flexible. Put forth your focus on what is needed right now then check and see where things can fit in. Now, I'm not a full time writer/author at this time so things could change if that ever happened, but I have to keep in mind what needs to be done now. I do make time for writing. Sure a room needs to be dusted or some laundry needs to be folded, but this scene isn't going to write itself so why not take some time to do it. Even a 1/2 hour. I sometimes write or work through tough spots while I'm waiting for the kids at their rock music lessons. It is loud, and sometimes I do bring my headphones, but I try to fill that time being productive the best way I can. It's a juggling act that is constantly changing. <br />
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We all know writing and publishing is a roller coaster, but we keep at it. Persistence. The thing is you don't want to miss life either. Plan out your day the best you can and be flexible if it doesn't all go your way. Chocolate always helps too!<br />
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How do you handle change?<br />
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Have a great day!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-44098781344313874352018-01-08T11:51:00.001-05:002018-01-08T11:51:09.766-05:00Happy New Year!<div>
Happy New Year! The new year means reflection to me. Since September is more reflecting on goals, the new year is more of reflecting on me. My inner stuff. What makes me . . . me. I got into more of a slump at the end of the year with writing. Inspiration was lost and no writing was happening. Querying will do that, but I also had a hard time focusing on my characters. In fact, a new story surfaced, but my drive wasn't there. </div>
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So, what am I doing to change it? Well, the manuscript that will have me forever stuck is still sitting, waiting for me to continue. Until the scene I need works it's way out of my brain, I'm going back to a very old manuscript that no one wants. I figure it will be a good exercise to work on something. And maybe it will allow new motivation to leak in. </div>
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I'm actually plotting the new idea. Plotting before writing is foreign to me. It's uncomfortable, but I think for this story it is needed. The MC is a little shy, so I need to push her along. </div>
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I'm also realizing where I fit. I'm beginning to think that my manuscripts may not be great material for the big houses. It's not that I've given up, it's just reality is slapping me in the face. I've been pushing for an agent for years with multiple manuscripts. I'm getting the hint that my stories are not for the big leagues. I'm regrouping and refocusing on where I should be in the publishing world. It's not easy, but I need to face reality. I've been writing forever, but focusing on writing to be published for nine years. There comes a point when you need to take a hint and refocus on where your material belongs. That's been the hardest lesson so far. </div>
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I hope to blog more this year. I think it helps my brain. I've been a little hidden just because I'm trying to find my place again. I thought I knew, but I was mistaken. </div>
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Anyway, what are your goals for you? Any news?</div>
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Have a great day!</div>
Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-28825921565927498982017-09-05T17:13:00.001-04:002017-09-05T17:13:35.727-04:00Jumping back in and Behind the Song release dayWell, summer is disappearing and fall is filtering in. That means school is starting and my schedule finally gets back to normal. I do love being with my kids, but a schedule change is nice too. <br />
It also means buckling down and getting some writing done. I'm still struggling on my fantasy. The thing is I don't have the heart to give it up. I like the darkness of it. It's a manuscript I work on here and there. <br />
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I do have some new ideas, but the characters seem a bit shy about showing me too much of who they are. This is what I should be focusing on. New stuff. The problem is my brain has other ideas. See below.<br />
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The one thing I will be tackling is a revision of a manuscript I wrote long ago. I can't get it out of my head, and once I figured out what the first chapter should be, I'm now hooked on making this book shine. It has aliens, teen problems, and a little romance. Are some of those cliché? Probably, but you know what? I don't care. I'm writing this book for me. I have no intention of doing anything with it other than to use it to strengthen my writing skills. I need to work on something that has no rules because that is what keeps getting in the way. It keeps me questioning things and it brings on fear. This book is purely for me to have fun. <br />
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I started listening to the playlist I made for it way back when. Here are some great tunes that fit this book.<br />
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-Letters from the Sky by Civil Twilight<br />
-Panic Switch by Silversun Pickups<br />
-I Will Follow You Into The Dark by Death Cab for Cutie<br />
-Come Alive by Foo Fighters<br />
-Knights of Cydonia by Muse<br />
-No You Girls by Franz Ferdinand<br />
-Tick Tick Boom by The Hives<br />
-Get Free by The Vines<br />
-Shadowplay by The Killers<br />
-Mad World by Gary Jules and Michael Andrews<br />
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There's more but I think you get it. I need music to write. I've said it before that I have a playlist for every idea I have come up with. I'm not kidding. These songs are a little dated because that's when I started this manuscript. It actually feels good to play this list and the feelings come back again. <br />
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Another thing I'm excited for is this:<br />
<a href="https://www.kmwalton.com/behind-the-song-hold">https://www.kmwalton.com/behind-the-song-hold</a><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33918882-behind-the-song"><img alt="Behind the Song" src="https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1489677421l/33918882.jpg" /></a><br />
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It is edited by the lovely <a href="https://www.kmwalton.com/books">K.M. Walton</a>. Who is awesome! Congrats Kate!<br />
Here is the blurb from Goodreads:<br />
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A song to match everyone's heartbeat.<br />
A soaring melody, a pulse-pounding beat, a touching lyric: Music takes a moment and makes it a memory. It’s a universal language that can capture love, heartbreak, loss, soul searching, and wing spreading—all in the span of a few notes. In Behind the Song, fourteen acclaimed young adult authors and musicians share short stories and personal essays inspired by the songs, the albums, the musicians who move them. <br />
So cue up the playlist and crank the volume. This is an anthology you’ll want to experience on repeat.<br />
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There are so many amazing people in this anthology. It is released today! So go and get it!<br />
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So what are you reading?<br />
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What are you working on?<br />
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Have a great day!<br />
Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-36328952317081175622017-06-26T11:01:00.002-04:002017-06-26T11:01:55.140-04:00Writing with monstersWriting and pursuing publication takes time. A lot of time. The creativity for it is its own beast sometimes on its own schedule. At different stages of my process, I have different rituals to write. Some days it takes longer to get into. Throw life and kids in the mix and a swirling tornado of when can I sit and write twists at 200 mph. I've written for many years, but it wasn't until after my second monster was born, was when I started writing in pursuit of publication. When they were little, I thought oh I have no time to do this, but there are ways to fit it in. <br />
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First, make sure you are sleeping. My kids never did. Most of my plotting was done in my head as I lay awake on my son's floor wishing he would just sleep. I can't say it was good plotting, but it was turning the wheels. For me, this worked, but I would say if you need sleep, take the time to get some shut eye. You will be a happier person for it. I would also write if and when my kids napped, which was sparse. When did I get other stuff done? Well, my writing time on average was about a half an hour per day, if I was lucky. <br />
When the monsters got to be in school full time some things changed. When I thought I would have more time, I was mistaken. I actually have less. Most of this is my fault. I started working part time and I volunteer a lot so my time has become choppy, and by night time, I'm exhausted. My advice is to make sure you can carve out some time. If it's early in the morning or a half an hour after dinner. Sometimes I write while making dinner. If you feel the creativity coming and the moment is there, write. I've even jotted down ideas in the middle of the airport because a new character whispered in my ear. <br />
Also, my kids activities escalated. If I have to wait for them at one of their activities, I bring the work with me. Whether I'm editing, coming up with a new scene, or brainstorming, I do what I can while I wait. If you can spot when there is a moment of just you, take advantage, even if it's 15 minutes. It's progress. <br />
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Second, summer comes. I spend most of my week with my kiddos and part of the week working. In the summertime, adjustments to your schedule will have to be made. My kids do some camps, and we take some vacations, but I like to keep the kids busy. I don't want them on screens all day, so I try and plan out my week around things that need to be done around the house, what the kids are doing, and where the time can fit in. I work better in the morning so I give the kids some time to play with their toys or screens and I try to flesh out some scenes or edit. This does put me on a time limit, but something is moving along. It also does not happen everyday.<br />
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Finally, these are some tidbits per my schedule. Your schedule may be different than mine so not all of these recommendations will work for you. Step back or write down your week to see where writing can fit in. Also, try different times and see what works for you. <br />
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Lastly, don't be hard on yourself. Everyone is different and our needs are not the same. Kids grow up fast so make sure you soak in the time you have. I'm just happy when something gets done.<br />
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How do you write with your kiddos?<br />
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Have a great day!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-63005025847579430442017-06-23T11:11:00.001-04:002017-06-23T11:12:37.320-04:00What to do with FearThe one thing that trips me up while writing is fear. It comes in varying degrees. Sometimes it's easy to push away, and other times, it wraps its bony fingers around my neck and squeezes. The whole publishing world can be a frightful place. I always toy with--"Why on earth am I doing this?" Or- "Am I insane to keep putting myself through this torture?" These are common questions for anyone who embarks on this journey. I have calmed my constant desire to check my email and twitter feed because I realize crickets live there. Now, I will say, I have stepped back a little from these sparce places only to work more on my story words than any other, but all that is quiet means nothing is happening.<br />
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I try to not be the Debbie Downer. I've grown better at not letting rejections get to me. They are merely annoying now. It's more expected than not. I know, I'm not big on the confidence thing. I don't have a whole lot of faith in myself most of the time. I put a lot of this in perspective when I realize my sob stories are basically nothing compared to others. I've heard countless of really bad experiences that make me feel that my writing life is not all that horrible. The hope does come from the good experiences authors tell me they have. I guess that's why I keep submitting in the hopes that I get a little piece of that joy.<br />
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Fear is part of this hesitation. I write and all the voices in my head question and doubt on how this will not be any different than the last four. It's silly really. I try and just make it that I'm not writing for anyone but me. That no one will see this except in the long run, I know I will want to send it out and see what happens. I just have to jump over the hurdle of how horribly written it is now and keep polishing it.<br />
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So how do you do that? I don't have a definite answer. I'm always looking for advice on what to do when fear holds me back. I try to work on other things or type out a blog post to see where it will take me. :) There may not be an answer at all. It's all how the individual handles it. Some can move on quickly and others it will take longer. Maybe a variety in daily life or just surround yourself in support.<br />
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What are your thoughts on how fear affects your writing and daily life?<br />
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Have a great day!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-22097729135525627092017-06-02T14:22:00.001-04:002017-06-02T14:22:46.164-04:00Here comes summerHello again! It's been a while. Life gets crazy and schedules take over. You know what I mean. Summer is coming. I do like summer. A lot. Warmer weather is my thing. My writing time does get smaller due to entertaining the kiddos, but I'm going to try and figure out a way to keep up my pace. I'm getting back into that YA fantasy I mentioned way back. It still amazes me how long novels take. I started this one at least two years ago, but I'm getting back into it. A fantasy is new for me. I read them, but writing one has proved to be a challenge. I'm sure it will continue to be a little of a problem child. The one thing I love about it are my visuals. I am into creating Pinterest boards for my works in progress, and I'm hoping the inspiration pictures I have for this fantasy are reflected in the book. Especially the dark feeling. :) I just have to get through a major battle scene and I will have a full draft ready for revision. My fear of writing it keeps holding me back though. Pesky fear always nagging my confidence. I will get there.<br />
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I'm trying to read some amazing books to fuel the inspiration for a battle scene. Somehow, my to be read pile grows every time I look at it.<br />
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Anyone have any great new YA fantasies they would like to recommend? Why not make my pile taller? :)<br />
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Have a great day!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-81776001249996140362017-01-27T15:20:00.003-05:002017-01-27T15:20:32.836-05:00Writing and rewriting then repeatThere is a point when writing a manuscript where you may think-- <em>It's as far as I can go. It's finished.</em> I can't tell you how many times I've have said this to myself, but let's just say, it's a ton. Manuscripts will get to the point where you can't look at them anymore. You may want to vomit or you might want to scratch your eyes out because you have read the words over and over and over and over again. And you might be certain that every sentence has perfect grammar, the voice and arc can't be any different, and the plot is solid. This too happens to me. To date, I've written many things and, well, have <em>finished</em> four manuscripts. I say finished quietly because are they ever finished? <br />
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Maybe. I guess it just depends on who reads it. There are times we are told to finish a manuscript to the point where you can't polish it up anymore. If you are lucky enough to get a professional's interest at this point, then there may be more changes and edits because that individual may see it with a more expert eye. Since most things are subjective in this business, the individual may also have their own personal opinion of what they would like to see for the manuscript to sell.<br />
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For the writer to see it, we have to put it away and learn more. In other words, this is determined by our skill level. Once we learn more, the manuscript may change in our eyes. This may require the writer to put the manuscript aside for a while, which can be frustrating. Well for me it is. I'm a little impatient. I want to continue to work on it till it is in the best possible shape. It has taken me years to even remotely understand that it can't always be that way. <br />
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For example, there is a manuscript I'm revising right now that I wrote at least four years ago. When I first completed it, I revised and revised then I queried it. I had some interest so I thought it must be decent. The outcome of the query trip didn't end in anything so I put it away. Recently, I took it out again for my critique group to check it out. Great points have been made to strengthen it and I'm even excited to be going through it again. What amazes me is there has been discussion on possibly rewriting the first half of the book to concentrate on a different aspect of the plot. Crazy, right? The strange thing about it is I'm open to it. The new thoughts intrigue me to want to take this on. I'm just hoping it would make the book even better than what it is. So what changed? Maybe I've learned more, have grown more, or maybe I'm able to see that my original thoughts were not the strongest. That maybe this new path is even better than what I had originally intended. Although, rewriting isn't what I was planning to do right now since I'm trying to write another project I started two years ago. I have to figure out how to juggle the two or what to concentrate on. But that's another blog post.<br />
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This is what writing is about--writing then rewriting. Growing stronger as not only a writer, but as a visionary. Thoughts morph into other ideas that strengthen the original blip in our imagination. You write till you think you have it then dive back in to polish the edges. The cycle continues on and on.<br />
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It leaves the question--when is a manuscript actually done? I guess that is up to the creator. If you get attention then maybe that is the deciding factor. If it doesn't catch a professional's eye, then it's up to the writer to decide if they have it in them to change it or not. It goes back to the writer and what their vision was in the first place and if that vision has changed or if it should change. <br />
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What are your thoughts? When do you think a manuscript is actually done?<br />
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Have a great day!!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-84617104411199317732017-01-09T11:10:00.001-05:002017-01-09T11:10:16.532-05:00Writing on a budgetI will say, I'm no expert in any of this, but I do watch my wallet. I do not make money from any of my written works at this point so I can't claim it as a job--technically. I do take it very seriously and hope, one day, I just might get paid. But for now, I'm simply working for the dream. I'm trying my hardest to challenge myself and hone my skills to become a stronger writer. Let's face it between day jobs and daily life, time can be limited. Some of the options can get pricey and we all know money doesn't grow on trees. <br />
However, there are many opportunities out there that will challenge you and give you some great experiences as well as taking your writing a step further. <br />
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<strong>Critique groups</strong>--There are online critique groups or groups that meet in person. One of the best ways to find one in your area is to check out the SCBWI (this is for kid lit) website (<a href="https://www.scbwi.org/">https://www.scbwi.org/</a>) and look up your geographic area. It will have a link to critique groups. Make sure you contact the members and get to know them before committing. Sometimes sending a sample piece to each other helps to see if the group is right for you. If you write adult or romance or something else entirely, do a search in your browser for groups that would fit what you are interested in. <br />
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<strong>Online critiques--</strong> Try some seasoned sites that offer critiques or agent feedback. <br />
Miss Snark's First Victim has many opportunities to get feedback on your work. Some events do have a fee but not all of them. <a href="http://misssnarksfirstvictim.blogspot.com/">http://misssnarksfirstvictim.blogspot.com/</a><br />
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Dianne Salerni <a href="http://diannesalerni.com/blog/">http://diannesalerni.com/blog/</a> , Marcy Hatch <a href="http://mainewords.blogspot.com/">http://mainewords.blogspot.com/</a> and Krystalyn Drown <a href="http://krysteybelle.blogspot.com/">http://krysteybelle.blogspot.com/</a> offer First Impressions. You send them 350-400 words of your first page and they will give you a critique.<br />
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<strong>Workshops/online classes</strong>--These are a great way to strengthen your skills. <br />
Adventures in Publishing have a great workshop every month for free. It's a five page workshop. You receive feedback from (2) published authors and make (3) rounds of revisions, then you will receive feedback from an agent. Make sure you follow the rules. <a href="http://www.1st5pageswritingworkshop.com/p/workshop-rules.html">http://www.1st5pageswritingworkshop.com/p/workshop-rules.html</a><br />
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Margie Lawson has some great online and on site classes that won't break the bank. <a href="https://www.margielawson.com/">https://www.margielawson.com/</a><br />
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<strong>Conferences</strong>--Conferences can get pricey. I do try to get to one every few years, but they can cost $100.00 or more. Recently, a conference has resurfaced that I enjoyed years ago from the comfort of my own home. WriteOnCon is an online conference that offers live discussions, seminars, forums, Q & A sessions with authors, agents, editors and publishers. All of it from the most comfortable chair you own along with a cup of tea and chocolate at your side. There is a small fee (under $20.00), but worth it. <a href="http://writeoncon.org/">http://writeoncon.org/</a><br />
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<strong>Contests</strong>--There are some sites that organize great contests and writing opportunities throughout the year. Many of these have awesome prizes in the end (pitch opportunities, requests from agents, etc.) <br />
Twitter is one that has many. #PITMAD is where you post a pitch and agents get to chose if they want to read more. #Pitchwars is similar. There are others and they happen at different times of the year so keep a close eye on your trends box.<br />
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Sun vs. Snow is another contest that is going on right now. For free. Agents get involved in this one as well. <a href="http://www.michelle4laughs.com/2016/12/announcing-sun-versus-snow-2017.html">http://www.michelle4laughs.com/2016/12/announcing-sun-versus-snow-2017.html</a> Michelle also organizes other contests throughout the year so check out her site. <br />
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Write Club is another contest that happens once a year. Another no cost to you. Your piece will go through many rounds of feedback. Authors and agents get in on the action. <a href="http://www.dlhammons.com/p/write-club-2016.html">http://www.dlhammons.com/p/write-club-2016.html</a><br />
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<strong>Retreats</strong>--Retreats can be great, but can get pricey. One idea is to simply get out of your house and go to a park and free write. If you have the means to travel somewhere else, go for it. This can help you see things another way. Different scenery can spark something creative. <br />
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If you can or really want to splurge, Highlights foundation puts on unworkshop retreats. These are usually on a weekend and you can get it for $99. a night. That includes lodging and food. You can write without interruption in a beautiful setting. Now, if you are not local to it, it will cost more to get there so keep that in mind. I haven't gone yet, but hope to try it one day. I'm saving my pennies. ;) They also offer amazing workshops, but again, you need to save up for those. <a href="https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/">https://www.highlightsfoundation.org/</a><br />
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This is only the tip of the iceberg. If you search online, you will find many more. As with any of these, research and check all of the credentials. Make sure they are legitimate. Read reviews of past participants if you can find them. Research the organizers as well. It doesn't hurt. <br />
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Also keep in mind, writing is subjective. Feedback can be hard to take so you must learn how to see what is constructive and what is opinion. You know what is right for your story. <br />
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Does anyone have any other links to share? I'm sorry if I forgot any. <br />
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Have a great day!<br />
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<br />Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-91914816275118223632017-01-03T17:55:00.001-05:002017-01-03T17:55:57.624-05:00Traveling the seas of publishing<br />
For many of us writers becoming published is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. The big catch. The prize is shiny and can be distracting. Once we start, it's not easy to understand the massive seas ahead. I have to say, it is one business not like any other.<br />
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Even though I've been writing casually for about 20 years, it wasn't until 7 years ago that I decided I wanted to take my writing one step further. I didn't know much in the beginning, but once on board, some holes poked through. And even today, I'm no expert.<br />
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There are things I see now that I never expected before. In fact, I was sort of shocked to hear about them. This most likely goes for all of the professional arts. If you're the creator, there is a sea of opportunity, but you never know what is under it or when a storm will brew. It's the unpredictable nature of it that can scare the pants off you. <br />
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Many of the stories we see are successes, which are awesome and those folks should be applauded. Once you're in the open ocean, you know how hard this is to come by. Writing the book is hard enough, but prepping a query and synopsis is like pouring salt into a wound. Once these are to your liking you send it out to agents if that is your path. There are other channels to go into if you chose, but the prep is pretty much the same. Other boats may forge ahead of you and that's okay. It's not easy to watch, but the respect is all the same.<br />
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The waiting is difficult. Let's face it, if you are shipwrecked, you are waiting for a sign of rescue. You have sent the message, but the bottle hasn't return. You can check the waves every minute, but it won't help. You need to distract yourself. Get off the usual routine (if you're not really stranded on a beautiful oasis, that means get off social media). Open your eyes and take a walk or visit somewhere new. Take in your surroundings and give your brain the chance to recharge. Don't allow the boat that passed you at the start hold you back. They may have hit a storm as well. Keep going forward and write something new or do something different like weaving palms to build yourself a house. <br />
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There will be many false hopes (rejections are never fun), but sometimes there will be a ray of sun through the clouds that may lead to something even better. It may be the lifeboat you are looking for or it may be a glimmer of what is to come. The request may not end up the way you hope, but it may be a sign to show you how far you have come and that something better is on it's way. It could be a cramped wooden fishing boat that will get the help you need to get off the island. <br />
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The point is--Publishing is only a small part in your journey to thrive. It is never the same for everyone. There is no right path. In today's world, there are so many different opportunities and avenues to take. You have to decide which one to pursue and even then the first one you think is right may not be for you. The thing is you must try and not ignore the other opportunities. Keep writing, and write for you. Grow and learn. Challenge yourself. Rejection is not failure. That is the hardest lesson to learn. We sometimes seek this acceptance by publishing approval. Writing is subjective. What you can't sell now, may sell in a few years from now. So, be you and write your heart out. <br />
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Happy New Year! Has it really been this long. One of my many goals this year is to blog a little more. Hopefully I'll do better, I've been a bad girl at that. I'm also going to focus more on my writing and challenge myself. My many years of rejection have set my path off track. It happens. It can happen a lot more than you like, but learning and growing from it is another focus for me in the year to come.<br />
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What is your biggest challenge in your writing journey?<br />
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Have a great day!!<br />
<br />Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-64667479147541891292016-09-13T11:08:00.000-04:002016-09-13T11:08:12.068-04:00Playlists, pictures and writingWhoa! It's been a while. As usual, life has taken over my summer. I finished a manuscript and needed a mental health break. A story can take you over and suck the life out of you. I'm trying to start something new and rework a fantasy I started over a year ago. Writing is funny like that. Inspiration can take hold of you and a squeeze you dry. It's a strange feeling when creativity takes a back seat. The whole rollercoaster ride on the tracks of writing. I'm a visual writer. I see a lot of the story in my head so I need to find things to ignite an idea.<br />
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I have one idea that's been in my head for a year. The problem is the character isn't really talking, only showing me snippets. It can be frustrating, but I write down what this shy lady is showing me. What has been a wonderful help is music. It amazes me how a certain song will spark the mood, voice, and scenes of a story. For me this is key. It gets me excited about an idea. I will play an inspiration song over and over till I get something. It's funny how it can just click. I will go into a distant stare and let the vision take over. Don't do this while driving though. <br />
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Anyway, this idea is starting to take shape, which is a good thing. I currently make playlists on Spotify. I can label which book they are for and add songs to each. I have made playlists for every book I've written. It's crucial for my process. <br />
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Another thing that's good to do is make a visual chart. Pictures can help you visualize your characters, scenery, even clothing. Pinterest is my go to for this. I have a board for each book and put inspiration photos under those headings. You can also use Scrivner for this. <br />
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Getting outside is another help. Even visiting a new place helps. It opens your eyes to the world and people. I tend to observe more than I interact. It helps when writing your characters. <br />
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Well, there you have some tips on reigniting your muse. I'm sure I've written about this before, but it always helps to be reminded. <br />
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Any tips you have to make an idea pop?<br />
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Have a great day!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-4349207769653660322016-02-03T14:46:00.003-05:002016-02-03T14:46:24.381-05:00Working through the kinks.Writing is one of those things where words can be flying onto the page one minute and turn bone dry the next. I've been working on a manuscript for about a year. The first draft mind you. I'm not super proud of that time line but it's something I'm trying to figure out. I was super passionate about the project when I started. I did get feed back early on, which may have slowed my process and hindered the flow. I put it aside for many months, hoping that I would get those fuzzy feels for it again. It took a while and now there are some tingles in my belly for it. I am struggling though. I think I'm overthinking things as I always do. <br />
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It's the first draft fright. I'm a reviser. It's what I like to do. First drafts scare me. It could be the perfectionist in me, but I like revising. First drafts are messy and disorganized. You would think I would be an outliner, but no, total panster. This might make you think I would love first drafts. I don't. So how do you survive them? I don't think there is a straight answer. This is my fifth novel and I still squirm when I open a blank page. I listen to the voice and plug along, but then that scene comes where you have no idea how to connect it to the ending. Did I mention I write out of order? Yep, guilty. <br />
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Right now, I'm at that point. I have 43,000 words. The beginning, most of the middle, and the end are written. I just have to connect (think big climax) the middle to the end. I know what has to happen, it's just getting something down so I can read through and fill in and polish. My brain is having a hard time with it. My solution is to keep going. Even if I develop a twitch in the corner of my left eye, I have to accept that I can write the word "transition" or "needs something here" and continue on. It's okay to do this. <br />
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Working through a first draft, for me, can be tedious. The thing is-- we all have our own process. As we hone our skills and write our babies, we figure out what works best for us. It's getting over fears or at least calming them down, taking a breath, and jumping in. So here I go. I'm off to write a big battle scene.<br />
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How do you get through your first draft?<br />
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Have a great day!!<br />
Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-84767252837408397302016-01-06T12:18:00.002-05:002016-01-06T12:18:41.863-05:00Happy New Year!Well, it's a new year. I have to say, I'm in good spirits. I think I'm at a point where I'm settled with my writing and with my life. It's always a juggle but I've come to a point of accepting things and dealing with them. <br />
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Writing seems to have taken on new meaning for me. It's about strengthening. That's my focus. My focus is not on validation or racing to publishing. It's about honing those skills. So this year is all about becoming a better writer. I have plenty of material to work on so whipping them into better shape is what I'm going to do. <br />
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What I'm going to do with this blog, I'm not sure. I've focused on many things from teaching what I learned to promoting others to life and feelings of a struggling writer. I'm not sure what to put on here. For a while, I felt as if I was repeating myself. I did enjoy the community I once belonged but many of them have left or are busy. So what to do next? Not sure. I don't call myself an expert and I still need to own the title as writer. It's something I struggle to call myself. It's a lack of confidence/imposter feeling. I don't even know when one can call themselves an author. <br />
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So here are a couple of questions for you.<br />
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1. What are your goals for this year?<br />
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2. What is the blog world missing? What would you like to see?<br />
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3. In your eyes, what is the difference between an author and a writer? To me it's if you are published or not, but I could be wrong in that line of thinking.<br />
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I'm hoping to start doing something here again, I'm just not sure what yet. <br />
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Happy New Year!<br />
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Have a great day!!<br />
<br />
Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-83551886550624588352015-11-09T15:06:00.001-05:002015-11-09T15:07:05.027-05:00Swallowing the bitter pill of queryingWhoa. Yep. I'm still alive. I have to say things are coming into view. I'm not sure how much that makes sense. Maybe I'm maturing (who would've thought). I see things differently now. Some things are less significant while others take priority. Still not understanding? <br />
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When I started my path to publication, I was wide eyed and believe it or not, optimistic. Well, as optimistic as a pessimist could get. I wanted to belong and be respected. I blogged and felt like part of a community. It supported me and I felt as if I belonged. I gather with locals and engaged in writerly conversations. Deep down, I wasn't sure if I was this writer everyone kept saying I was. I went through the motions, writing and revising, critiquing and being critiqued. All because I wanted to be published. I wanted my book in print. I knew it would take long. "At least ten years," many would say. I guess my naïve nature was like a mask. It only pulled over a false sense of belonging. I heard stories both good and bad about the whole industry. I researched the business and followed the trends to know what was out there. I scrolled on Twitter more than I like to say, which bombarded me with more information than I wanted to know. I never said I was an expert at anything and maybe that was my problem. I always felt below. I wrote four books in four years (not that any of them are good). I pushed myself and broke down a lot. I fought depression regularly, which held me back. And I posted it about it on my blog more times than I like to admit. Yes, embarrassing. I took things to heart and felt deep guilt that I wasn't cleaning a room or that I was taking time away from my kids to write. But I wanted to query.<br />
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So I did. To date I've queried three times (3 books). Over 150 rejections. I did have a few partials and fulls, but so far nothing. Now, I know my story is not one of woe. Many have had worse. I know, because I hear the tales. I hear how horrible it can get. What I want to stress is to not let it get to you. Easy for me to say, right? Not so much. Querying has crumbled me. I'm a person who needs validation. I thought I could get it through querying. That I could actually get something that would say that I was a good writer. I relied on the professionals to determine if I was worthy or not. <br />
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Since I wasn't getting anything other than--"it's not right for me" or "it's not sellable," I began to wonder what was wrong with me. Do I suck that badly that they can't even tell me? It's a blow that for those with weak confidence, can throw you so far into a hole, climbing out of it doesn't seem worth it. Let's face it, in my mind, I'm only going to continue to get rejected. The thing is my story isn't that sad. I do have a couple of poems published and my crit group can't be more supportive. They are awesome! It's me. It's something that I have to over come to get through it. Querying can leave a bitter taste in you mouth. One that you don't want to taste again because it has made you sick over and over. But it's one you have to overcome to continue.<br />
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It made me not want to write for a while. I'd open up documents and shut them. Like I was mad at them for not being good enough. The problem is I love those stories. I needed to believe in them. I needed to get better. I've distanced myself from many things that I used to enjoy in the writer community. I think I needed to reconnect with why I love writing in the first place. It's the story, the character, the idea of traveling somewhere that may or may not exist. I must swallow that bitter pill and get over what querying can do. Fill it with sweet candy (preferably chocolate) and immerse myself back into the worlds I love. Look at querying as just a stage. If they don't like it, they don't know what they're missing. <br />
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Have a great day!!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-68199501586597934072015-09-08T11:00:00.001-04:002015-09-08T11:00:12.745-04:00BelievingSo it's been a while. I have no excuse other than I'm finding myself. Does that even make sense? I've been trying to figure myself out for a while especially my writing self. As with all journeys, my path has been a rollercoaster and continues to be. When I first started taking this seriously, I was wide eyed and probably had more confidence in myself than I do now, which is not much. I've learned along the way that that's only part of the puzzle. I've struggled to find my place, which leads to me not having anything to say or repeating myself like I am now. The one thing that I needed to grasp is to believe. You know the cat poster in THE LEGO MOVIE. Yes, believe. If you don't have it in your heart that you can, you won't. It can be a difficult thing to do especially for someone like me. <br />
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Along the way on this path, I've written and rewritten, cried and did happy dances, got many critiques, cried some more, received many rejections, didn't want to talk about it, but the one thing I don't think I was consistent with was believing. There were times, but it wasn't a feeling I always possessed especially in my stories. It was hard to sometimes because I'm always getting rejected. Seems understandable, I guess. But the thing is --if you don't believe in the story, it won't believe in you. It will show. Some of my stories are hot messes because I was changing them to fit the market or an opinion. I didn't believe in it. I didn't back it up and stand up for what I was trying to do. This turns into learning how and what you want and only taking the advice when you know it will improve the story. Some have told me if more than two critiques address a problem then listen. It's advice I've known for years but haven't implemented myself. I was too scared that I wasn't experienced enough to know. <br />
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The truth is I am. So I'm not a teacher or librarian or bookseller. I dabbled in my visions and took them to the next level. I have to believe that I can and that what I'm doing with my stories is what I want even if no one wants it. Believing does make a difference. It shows through in the writing. <br />
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How about you--have you learned to believe?<br />
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Have a great day!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-67003200301203713122015-06-05T09:15:00.002-04:002015-06-05T09:15:45.052-04:00While you waitThe thing about this business is there is a lot of waiting. I think that was the biggest and hardest part to get used to. Still is. I'm no where near having a book published but the waiting in the query zone is enough to make you rip your hair out then bang it against a wall. When I first when through this, I was a mess. I was on edge and I kept repeating that no one would like it. After thirty queries and no bites, I gave in to defeat. The next two times have been more manageable. There has been some interest and I prepared myself for the months and months of nothing. Still, my neurotic brain can't help but allow the pessimistic voice to creep in. You know, the I'm-not-good-enough thing. It's a human reaction or maybe it's the lack of confidence and daily reminder that it may be true. I have developed more of a thick skin about, in fact, I think I expect rejection more than I expect someone to say they like it and want to read more. <br />
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But enough about that downer. I don't want to start complaining because I've been in this long enough to realize it's all part of the game. The one thing I keep doing is writing. On with something else. I have been writing a fantasy, as you know, and it has been my biggest problem child. I started to get frustrated and discouraged with it. The problem is--the story will not leave me alone. I'm anxious to get the first draft down in order to let it sit before revisions. But when I sit to write it, I overthink it and ask too many questions so nothing gets done. This has happened to me before, but it usually doesn't go on as long. Finally, after much anguish, I decided to just let it sit for a while and go to something else. It's funny how things come back around. My frustration with this fantasy is I'm forcing myself to think too much about it. Where's the creativity in that? I'm pushing myself and that leads to bad writing. I was missing that joyous, giddy feeling I get when I write. That feeling seemed to fizzle at some point--between learning more about the business and pressuring myself. So what do you do? <br />
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Well, you either start something new or revise something that made you feel awesome at one point. Since no new characters were burning in my brain, I decided to revisit an old shelved novel that used to make me all smiley. I don't expect anything from it other than jumpstarting the happy fuzzies and hopefully getting me out of the funk I've been in. So far, it's working. I'm looking at it differently and moving things around, playing with structure to make it flow better. The characters are like long, lost friends. We're picking up right where we left off. It's comforting. I'm not sure what I'll do with it when I'm done. It had been queried at one point, you know the one with thirty rejections, but it'll make me happy to see it in better shape than it was. <br />
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How do you get out of your writing funk when you get down?<br />
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What do you do while you wait for your queries or submissions to be answered?<br />
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Have a great weekend!!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-67692873838986903652015-05-11T12:07:00.000-04:002015-05-11T12:07:06.033-04:00The resparkWhoa. It's been a while again. I apologize, but I've been writing a novel that's kicking my butt and it's finally flowing again. I go through these dry spells, which I should be used to by now. It's as if the well of creativity dries up and there's no rain in sight. A drought so to speak. It could be a burn out of forcing it to happen. I don't know. But I love it when it rekindles. It's like taking a breath of air after holding your breath for ages. Anything can do it. For me, sometimes a song, a movie, but my most recent spark is a book. <br />
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My good friend, <a href="http://mybrainonbooks.blogspot.com/">Joanne Fritz</a>, gave me a book called<a href="http://www.evesilver.net/portfolios/rush/"> RUSH by Eve Silver</a>. I've been sort of down with my writing. I don't write the norm nor do I write anything that's "sellable" but I like what I write, it makes my frowny face turn upside down. So when I can find something that allows me to see that what I'm doing is okay, my insides flutter and my brain restarts. It makes me happy so why get down. Taking breaks are fine, the brain needs to reboot. <br />
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Anyway, this book has everything I love--first person present tense, scifi, teenage romance with a "bad boy", short choppy sentences--it's the stew that makes my heart beat fast and my brain wanting more. There are some things that bother me about this book, but the pros outweigh the cons. I'm a sucker for these books and I took the bait--hook, line and sinker. I like to read many different things but when I'm in a slump, reading what you love to write can ignite a fire that makes you feel giddy. It's makes what you love to write okay. And I love it when it happens. It's that mountain moment making you crawl out of the deep crevice you fell into. It sort of a validation. Basically, write what you want to read and stick to it. <br />
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So have you had the moment of clarity?<br />
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Have a great week!<br />
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Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-60339229543785482892015-04-17T08:58:00.002-04:002015-04-17T08:58:20.571-04:00Little gesturesGestures are things that can help or hurt someone. They can either make or break someone's day. In our writing these simple nuggets can show a character change or even just hint at it. In reality. What is reality? You know, day to day life. There are times when it's hard to figure out what to say to someone. In this world of constant information our brains can get overwhelmed, leaving us feeling unaccomplished and alone. There will always be the negative and positive, but today I'm going to stress the happy ones. A small gesture of kindness could change all of that. It could be as small as a "hello", or "how are you?" That could redirect someone's crappy day into something with more light. <br />
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For example, my week's been kind of yucky. Nothing in particular just everything grouping in my brain at one time. Monster 2 had a check up and I was discussing the eye therapies we were doing at home for monster's eye. I do my best but deep down the perfectionist in me doesn't accept it. I'm very hard on myself in that I always think I can do better or I'm not doing enough. I guess the doctor saw it in my face that I'm freaking out inside because I'm thinking this doctor will think of me badly. Instead, she put her hand on my knee and said, "It's okay. You're doing a great job." <br />
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Something lifted off of me, even if it's only for a moment. Someone understood. Someone saw my pain. It made me smile. For a moment, it allowed me to breathe. And I got a little teary eyed too.<br />
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As a writer, these moments are crucial. We tend to be introverted and are only expression is usually in words that drip from our hearts. The pace of publishing can feel like forever, not to mention, the inconsistency of it. We deliver words from our souls only to be put in a pit of rejection and opinions. It can get lonely, but one gesture can change that. "I understand" or "I know" or a simple smiley face can help get someone through it. Even if that person has gone silent or doesn't respond right away, a kind gesture could be the stepping stone out of their dark cave. <br />
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We can never know what another person is experiencing, but we can only be kind and put ourselves the best we can in their shoes. So whether your a writer with a fresh rejection or someone who is dealing with bullying or someone who is just overwhelmed with what life has handed you, look around you and see who is giving you a kind gesture and don't be afraid to reach out.<br />
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Have you experienced any kind gestures lately?<br />
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Have a great weekend!!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-78753499927188791762015-04-16T21:04:00.001-04:002015-04-16T21:04:09.480-04:00Some books to check outWhoa. Has it really been that long? I didn't realize I haven't posted in a while. Well, things happen. Writing comes first so . . . Anyway, I attended two book launches over the past few weeks. Both these ladies are quite the awesome. So go and check these two books out.<br />
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<img alt="" class="img-responsive" src="http://www.erinentradakelly.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Blackbird-Fly-200x300.jpg" /><br />
Title: Blackbird Fly<br />
Author: <a href="http://www.erinentradakelly.com/books/">Erin Entrada Kelly</a> (who is awesome and super sweet)<br />
Publisher: Harper Collins<br />
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Blurb:<br />
Apple Yengko knows what it’s like to be different. She has a weird Filipino nickname, she’s the only Asian at her school, and she’s obsessed with the Beatles instead of boys. But her life doesn’t truly fall apart until she finds out she’s listed on the Dog Log—the list of the ugliest girls in school—and her friends abandon her. Suddenly she’s a social pariah. The boys bark at her in the halls and the girls turn the other way. Apple dreams of escape and resents everything about her culture, including her mother. She’s desperate to get a guitar so she can run away and become a musician like her idol, George Harrison. Apple is convinced that music can save her. And it might—only not in the way that she thinks.<br />
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<img alt="NoneoftheAbove_Cover" class="aligncenter wp-image-451" height="453" src="http://www.iwgregorio.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/NoneoftheAbove_Cover-198x300.jpg" width="300" /><br />
Title: None of the Above<br />
Author: <a href="http://www.iwgregorio.com/books/">I. W. Gregorio</a> (amazing lady who does it all)<br />
Publisher: Balzer + Bray<br />
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Blurb:<br />
<strong><em>What if everything you knew about yourself changed in an instant?</em></strong><br />
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When Kristin Lattimer is voted homecoming queen, it seems like another piece of her ideal life has fallen into place. She’s a champion hurdler with a full scholarship to college and she’s madly in love with her boyfriend. In fact, she’s decided that she’s ready to take things to the next level with him.<br />
But Kristin’s first time isn’t the perfect moment she’s planned—something is very wrong. A visit to the doctor reveals the truth: Kristin is intersex, which means that though she outwardly looks like a girl, she has male chromosomes, not to mention boy “parts.”<br />
Dealing with her body is difficult enough, but when her diagnosis is leaked to the whole school, Kristin’s world completely unravels. With everything she thought she knew thrown into question, can she come to terms with her new self?<br />
Incredibly compelling and sensitively told, <em>None of the Above</em> is a thought-provoking novel that explores what it means to be a boy, a girl, or something in between.<br />
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So, I'm saying to go and pick up these great books. The launches were fabulous and the authors are pretty darn awesome. <br />
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How about you, what new books are you reading? <br />
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Have a great day!!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-26309079461568006162015-03-12T08:19:00.001-04:002015-03-12T08:19:25.580-04:00OpinionsOpinions. Sometimes they are hard to take. Sometimes they enlighten and empower. Sometimes they damage and hurt. As a writer, opinions are a daily occurrence. It's something that we have to learn how to deal with especially if they are negative. But that doesn't mean it makes it any easier to take. Sure our skin thickens, but when the opinions attack us, well, defenses will rise.<br />
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It seems as though opinions are easier to deliver via social media and reviews. People express themselves in all sorts of ways without a thought of consequence--without a thought of the other's feelings. It's like throwing stones at someone, but they are not right in front of you so you don't see them getting hurt. It's as if not seeing the other person's reaction makes it okay to say. I'm not saying we can't express ourselves or have an opinion. By all means, social media makes it easy to do and change can be made, but words can be harsh like a sword. They can jab into the hearts of many and the person holding the hilt will never know or understand how many hearts were stabbed. <br />
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I've seen opinions made that I may not agree with but they are made with respect. Each word is chosen to prove a point not attack and beat another. They make you think, not enrage. Opinions do make the world go round. It would be pretty boring if we all agreed on the same thing. Opinions make us unique, but we also need to have compassion. Saying your opinion is fine, but saying it with tack and poise will earn respect. <br />
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Just a little thought for today. <br />
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How is everyone?<br />
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Have a great day!!<br />
Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-30280116698895116112015-03-04T12:11:00.000-05:002015-03-04T12:11:02.314-05:00Writing fearsSo, I've been absent lately. Things happen. As I stated before, writing and life take over and that's what I've been dealing with.<br />
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My writing has me facing many fears lately. I'm digging deeper in revisions in one, which is a good thing. I can feel the character more and the added depth can only enhance the manuscript. Plus, I tend to like revising more than drafting. Don't ask. Digging deeper and living inside them, being them, connects the reader even more. I found this post: <a href="http://writershelpingwriters.net/2014/07/3-steps-taking-character-deeper-anger/">http://writershelpingwriters.net/2014/07/3-steps-taking-character-deeper-anger/</a><br />
It takes you deeper into your character on how they would react in anger. It's interesting and definitely gets you thinking. <br />
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Another way is by going deeper into who you are. Basically taking pieces of you and really soul searching. <a href="http://hollylisle.com/deeper-people-putting-yourself-into-your-characters/">http://hollylisle.com/deeper-people-putting-yourself-into-your-characters/</a><br />
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But like I said, I actually enjoy that process. Revising. Drafting, on the other hand, is torture. It should be fun, and sometimes is, because there are no rules--you write without a worry. Well, there are little worries. I'm drafting a new project. I know the beginning, some middle parts and the end. All are written like scenes waiting to be placed together. Yes, I write out of order. I also have a line of the whole story. Sort of like very loose outline. I've change the start point and I think I've found it, but now I have to figure out what tense and POV. <br />
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You see, I'm a first person present tense gal, as I'm sure your know. I love everything about it. I love to read and write it. It comes naturally to me. And up to this point, my stories seem to call for it, but this new one may not. It may lean to a 3rd person past. It scares the you know what out of me. It's a challenge, which is not a bad thing, and I'm happy to take it on. The problem, I'm a perfectionist and the thought of royally screwing it up weighs on my conscious, freezing all creativity into that project. I love the story and it's the hardest story I think I've ever attempted to write, but the idea of the switch makes me so wicked scared. But that's how we grow and strengthen, right? It's what keeps us going and sharpens our skills. I did attempt this once before and it turned out 3rd person present, which is crazy.<br />
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One of these days, I will take the plunge and write one chapter, but I don't know how to start. I'm tempted to completely start from scratch and write the story over. I'm currently 30,000 words in. But something is tickling me to try it again. I have to put out my impatience fire and go forward. <br />
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Any 3rd person past writing tips? I do read novels written in this POV as well as other POVs so I plan to look at those for reference. <br />
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How do you overcome fears and well as impatience?<br />
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Have a great day!!<br />
Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-90078121784531626022015-02-06T09:52:00.001-05:002015-02-06T09:52:19.527-05:00Don't overthink itSo lately I've been having this issue of overthinking everything I write. It makes my creative brain clogged like some pores are filled with acne. I really don't know how to get away from this annoyance. Each word I type is analyzed and torn apart. The voice of the character fades and I write and rewrite scenes on a daily basis. I guess you could say I'm writing, but I feel like I have to hold back. All the rules and advice slam me every time I sit and draft. <br />
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This all leads to overthinking and it's starting to overstay it's welcome. On one hand, it was helpful for me to slow down and think about what I was doing, really dig deep. I tend to fly through things, I'm a panster after all, so I thought if I take my time and really look at it, pick it apart, I wouldn't have so much later on. Like major changes in revisions. There will always be revisions, I know this, this is my fifth manuscript, but it's taking something away from the whole process. I'm not feeling fully immersed into the character. Before, the character lived in me at all times and I felt everything, now the character is just telling me things and it feels forced. This is not particularly a great thing. Sure I still have a story, but when you write first person, present tense, you better feel and see it always. <br />
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So, I've been getting super frustrated and cranky. I've taken days off and have read other books to see if separation was good. But when I come back to it, the analyzing returns. I want to write this book badly because I have another to revise and that requires going in deep. I want to finish this first draft before jumping into the other one. The characters are different and I don't want to mix personalities. <br />
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I need some thoughts on this. Has this happened to you?<br />
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If so, what did you do to change it?<br />
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Have a great weekend!!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-77754475718899234422015-01-28T11:09:00.000-05:002015-01-28T11:09:06.070-05:00What is the best?So, I've been working on my whole deal-with-everything mode. As you can tell it's rusty and is still in the works. In order to make sure I keep my writing time, things get passed over like blogging. This led me to think about social media. I do take breaks from it for good reason (it can make you nuts and feel totally inadequate). But I started to think which platform people are on. It's not like I have a career to promote at the moment, but I do like to be on top of these things. <br />
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At one point, blogging was the hot ticket and I was (if you look at my archive) blogged everyday. After a while, I ran out of things to talk about and felt as though I was repeating myself. I didn't have anything exciting to discuss nor did I feel like I was an expert in anything to help with anything. So, for me, my posts made a decline. It was hard for me to keep up. I did enjoy the community though. It was supportive and it felt like I belonged to something. But a lot of folks were in the same boat as me, I think, where they needed the blogging time to write. Makes sense. <br />
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Then there's Facebook. I tend to use this for more personal things even though I discuss my writing woes and triumphs, but for me this is more for close friends and family. At the moment, I don't need an author page so I'm not familiar with the success of that. <br />
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Let's jump over to Twitter. Fast paced to which I can't keep up. I do post things but I never know why. I can't stay on it long because it takes up a lot of time, and really, do people even care what I have to say. I'm not witty. At least, I don't think I am. Other than chatting with friends and posting my writing status, I will promote other people's books and put up links to helpful posts. Again, I'm not sure how much of a difference it makes in sea of constant tweets.<br />
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Now onto Tumbr. Um. I do have an account, but all I seem to post on there are links and some book promos for others. In fact, it confuses me a little. Maybe I'm too old to get it. Not to mention the time it takes to go through all the posts. <br />
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Google + ? I have an account but never use it. I think I did it to check it out, but haven't used it since.<br />
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So there you have it. This is what I've been on and I'm not sure what is working and what isn't. I know there are other sites, but I really don't want another time sucker. In fact, I'm trying to focus on writing more than anything else, but it is nice to discuss things now and again. I guess I want to hear from you. <br />
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What are you on and why?<br />
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What works?<br />
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Should more time be put into one at different stages of you?<br />
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I'm not sure of my blogging schedule. I'm sort of leaving it up to how my week goes. Fridays are starting to become more hectic than before so I may be posting randomly for a while. <br />
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Have a great day!!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-10000613502559557192015-01-28T11:03:00.003-05:002015-01-28T11:03:48.087-05:00THE INQUISITOR'S MARK by Dianne Salerni<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/photo/22206715-the-inquisitor-s-mark" itemprop="image" rel="nofollow"><img alt="The Inquisitor's Mark (Eighth Day, #2)" id="coverImage" src="https://d.gr-assets.com/books/1404359089l/22206715.jpg" /></a><br />
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My good friend <a href="http://diannesalerni.com/blog/">Dianne Salerni's</a> new book, THE INQUISITOR'S MARK was released yesterday. I'm so excited for her! I'm really looking forward to reading it!! It's book 2 in THE EIGHTH DAY series. <br />
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Check it out! Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7263764816117736939.post-65566031049945949932015-01-09T08:05:00.004-05:002015-01-09T08:05:55.377-05:00Clearing out a holiday foggy mindHappy New Year!! I'm writing a post. Yes, yes I am. Do I want to talk about goals? Nah. Everyone is talking about them. I want to talk about that cloudy head. You know what I mean. It's the holiday hangover and you don't know where to start. I did take a few weeks off from writing as I'm sure many people have. For me, it was mostly because of life things, but it was good in a sense that I could clear my head of the crazy schedule I tend to fall into. But now starts the whole getting-back-into-a-routine thing. Of course wrapping up in a blanket and laying on the couch with a bowl of chocolate sounds nice too, but there's work to be done. I do think it's important to have a routine and to stick to it. Vacations are great, but there's a life to get back to. Starting a routine or getting back into one can be slow and discouraging at times, but forging ahead and sometimes taking baby steps will help. Let's face it, you're not becoming a marathon runner overnight. If you are, I will bow down to you.<br />
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Yes, you will feel like your brain is foggy without a lighthouse in sight or that you may never get that groove back. But it does come. Trust me, it happens to me all the time. Keep in mind, the brain is a muscle and needs to be exercised. Of course, there is that rusty feeling. That's when you start to freak out and think you can never have an original or awesome thought again. I've been there. Actually, this past week. You may have heard me grumble. Wheels may squeal when you try and type. The words on the page might not make sense. It's like you're a small child learning how to write. It may also feel as though your story has blindfolded you and placed you in a dark room of nothing, leaving you grasping at air. It's okay. Your brain needs to be worked and molded back to where it was. Think about it. When you stop ice skating for years and then one day your child asks to go and you go out there and try--you wobble, but there is a familiar feeling. It may be distant, but after a few or more laps you get a groove back. You won't be joining Disney on Ice anytime soon, but if you started to go on a regular basis you would build that confidence and strength back. Again, Disney may not be in your future, but I think you get the idea. <br />
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Same goes for writing. If you take time off, coming back to it may make you feel like a fish out of water. Like you may never write again. You may read past manuscripts and wonder-- did I really write that? I can't do that. Oh, but you can. It may take time, but routine and challenging yourself will get you back into your groove and onto a new adventure. <br />
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I'm finally thinking like my old self again, well, almost, but I know it will come back. ;)<br />
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So, how was everyone's holiday? <br />
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Is your mind cloudy?<br />
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Have a great weekend!Christine Danekhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00979611961825725350noreply@blogger.com