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.
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.
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.
So here are a couple of questions for you.
1. What are your goals for this year?
2. What is the blog world missing? What would you like to see?
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.
I'm hoping to start doing something here again, I'm just not sure what yet.
Happy New Year!
Have a great day!!
Showing posts with label goals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label goals. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Friday, May 10, 2013
The Dream
Well, I'm still here. Yep, revising. I swear I'm the slowest person on the planet. That's probably a bad thing to admit, but well, it happens. Anyway, it's times like these where my mind wanders and I start to daydream, not only about my books, but I look at where I want to be. Of course, I have to keep everything in perspective and be happy with where I am now, but I'm also human.
I know we all have that dream. You know the one. Where you get the awesome agent, sign a great book deal, travel all over the country signing, and then maybe a movie deal gets thrown in. Yeah. That one. I do have it now and again, but then I have one that's more realistic. Agent, small book deal, local signings. Then as I continue down my path, let's just say lately, my dream has gotten smaller. I try to focus and push forward, and for the most part it's worked, but there's a tinging like a little bell reminding me that I'm me. Sounds crazy, but all my life I've worked my tail off to get what I want and most of the time it falls short. It's like I'm almost there, but . . . type thing.
In life there is always something--an obstacle. Something that continually blocks you or holds you back. Lately, that's what I've been feeling. And as I look back on my journey, I notice it. Almost to the point where I say, "I get it, I suck."
But I still try to push forward a heavy boulder that insists on shoving me backwards. Every avenue I've pursued comes to a dead end. The thing is I don't know what I'm looking for--a light, a positive notion to say, "yes you are getting there." I know things don't happen overnight and I write what I want to write not "the trend", but it sucks to see the trend coming around and the book that you wrote could be in it except no one wanted it. It's like I missed my chance or I'm running to catch it. Always on the tail end. As for the one I'm writing now, I feel like I'm going to have the same outcome. Don't yell, I need to be positive, I know.
It's all part of the path. Writing isn't easy and I'm certainly not the only person this has happened to. I get that. The whole either suck it up or get out. Totally get it. I'm a fighter and I don't know what I would do without writing. I would be empty.
I guess in the end, it's a moment. A moment where you're not sure where to turn or even what to think. You know where you want to be and where you are, and even the path to get there, but every branch you take snaps before you can get to the other side.
Has this happened to you?
Have a great day!
I know we all have that dream. You know the one. Where you get the awesome agent, sign a great book deal, travel all over the country signing, and then maybe a movie deal gets thrown in. Yeah. That one. I do have it now and again, but then I have one that's more realistic. Agent, small book deal, local signings. Then as I continue down my path, let's just say lately, my dream has gotten smaller. I try to focus and push forward, and for the most part it's worked, but there's a tinging like a little bell reminding me that I'm me. Sounds crazy, but all my life I've worked my tail off to get what I want and most of the time it falls short. It's like I'm almost there, but . . . type thing.
In life there is always something--an obstacle. Something that continually blocks you or holds you back. Lately, that's what I've been feeling. And as I look back on my journey, I notice it. Almost to the point where I say, "I get it, I suck."
But I still try to push forward a heavy boulder that insists on shoving me backwards. Every avenue I've pursued comes to a dead end. The thing is I don't know what I'm looking for--a light, a positive notion to say, "yes you are getting there." I know things don't happen overnight and I write what I want to write not "the trend", but it sucks to see the trend coming around and the book that you wrote could be in it except no one wanted it. It's like I missed my chance or I'm running to catch it. Always on the tail end. As for the one I'm writing now, I feel like I'm going to have the same outcome. Don't yell, I need to be positive, I know.
It's all part of the path. Writing isn't easy and I'm certainly not the only person this has happened to. I get that. The whole either suck it up or get out. Totally get it. I'm a fighter and I don't know what I would do without writing. I would be empty.
I guess in the end, it's a moment. A moment where you're not sure where to turn or even what to think. You know where you want to be and where you are, and even the path to get there, but every branch you take snaps before you can get to the other side.
Has this happened to you?
Have a great day!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Realizing
Hi folks. I'm back.
First, Thanks to the incredibly talented, awesome ladies who put on Write On Con. *applauding*
Second, I'm still revising. I thought if I took a few days off from blogging I would get a lot done, but I spent most of my time with my family. So the days were not wasted. I did attend Write On Con. I learned a lot and it made me think about a lot of things. It's like one of those moments when you think, wow. You sort get a view on life in general. See, I've been writing and revising at a rate that maybe a little crazy. I set a goal for myself and I'm trying to get there. Of course, there is nothing wrong with this, in fact, it's good for me. What I realized is--not to be so hard on myself. I know, you're looking at me like really, you haven't figured this out already. Seriously? I guess in a way I need repeated beatings to get it into my skull.
A couple of the posts at Write On Con helped me see what my manuscript needs and what the next step is. It also made me realize that I need to step back, look at the big picture. My goal is to write great stories that will land me an agent and a book deal. Stories that I love. I've been doing that, but I've also been pushing myself to the point of thinking this is never going to happen, I'm too slow, and the whole confidence issue. I'm not going to slow down, just take my time on how I approach it and not get so worked up when I don't reach my daily goal or my main one. This will take a lot of strength, but I can do this. I planned to query by October. Still a reachable goal, but one I realize I may not meet. If that's the case, I will just re-adjust my plan. I can't get so worked up over it.
With that being said, here are some links to some great posts from Write On Con.
Check this out on Revising your Way to Success by Author Carrie Ryan
Writing a Great Query Letter by Literary Agent Jim McCarthy
Moments that Matter by Author Matt Myklusch
So you Wanna be a Writer? by Author Amy Fellner Dominy
Critique Groups 101 with the YA Muses
Your Own Hero's Journey: Advice from and Editor and Life Coach for Writers by Editor Kendra Levin
Are you Ready to Query? by Agent Kate Schafer Testerman
Don't Give Up by Author Beth Revis This one is the one that really makes you think. It makes you see how long it takes.
Need a genre definition. I found this helpful post by Jennifer Laughran. The big Ol'Genre Glossary.
So there you have it. My goal is to keep revising this week. I did work out some problem areas in my MS, now I have to re-work some things to make it work.
Any goals this week?
If you attended Write On Con or any recent conference, what did you learn?
Have a great day!
First, Thanks to the incredibly talented, awesome ladies who put on Write On Con. *applauding*
Second, I'm still revising. I thought if I took a few days off from blogging I would get a lot done, but I spent most of my time with my family. So the days were not wasted. I did attend Write On Con. I learned a lot and it made me think about a lot of things. It's like one of those moments when you think, wow. You sort get a view on life in general. See, I've been writing and revising at a rate that maybe a little crazy. I set a goal for myself and I'm trying to get there. Of course, there is nothing wrong with this, in fact, it's good for me. What I realized is--not to be so hard on myself. I know, you're looking at me like really, you haven't figured this out already. Seriously? I guess in a way I need repeated beatings to get it into my skull.
A couple of the posts at Write On Con helped me see what my manuscript needs and what the next step is. It also made me realize that I need to step back, look at the big picture. My goal is to write great stories that will land me an agent and a book deal. Stories that I love. I've been doing that, but I've also been pushing myself to the point of thinking this is never going to happen, I'm too slow, and the whole confidence issue. I'm not going to slow down, just take my time on how I approach it and not get so worked up when I don't reach my daily goal or my main one. This will take a lot of strength, but I can do this. I planned to query by October. Still a reachable goal, but one I realize I may not meet. If that's the case, I will just re-adjust my plan. I can't get so worked up over it.
With that being said, here are some links to some great posts from Write On Con.
Check this out on Revising your Way to Success by Author Carrie Ryan
Writing a Great Query Letter by Literary Agent Jim McCarthy
Moments that Matter by Author Matt Myklusch
So you Wanna be a Writer? by Author Amy Fellner Dominy
Critique Groups 101 with the YA Muses
Your Own Hero's Journey: Advice from and Editor and Life Coach for Writers by Editor Kendra Levin
Are you Ready to Query? by Agent Kate Schafer Testerman
Don't Give Up by Author Beth Revis This one is the one that really makes you think. It makes you see how long it takes.
Need a genre definition. I found this helpful post by Jennifer Laughran. The big Ol'Genre Glossary.
So there you have it. My goal is to keep revising this week. I did work out some problem areas in my MS, now I have to re-work some things to make it work.
Any goals this week?
If you attended Write On Con or any recent conference, what did you learn?
Have a great day!
Monday, June 6, 2011
Don't for get the helmet cam.
I took Saturday night off. I watched some really interesting TV (Parking Wars, yeah I know), and after having three Augustiners (german beer), I came up with a TV show for my cat (remember, I had three german beers). I know, my cat. A commerical came on for a helmet camera. You know, one of those things you put on your head when you're skateboarding, sky diving, or doing some extreme sport. I guess you could use it for anything, but extreme sports is what they were pushing. So I thought, wouldn't it be funny if I put it on my cat's head to see what she does all day (which is mainly sleep, but if you add a voice to the footage how hilarious would that be). I mean, seriously, it might turn out to be better than some of the shows out there.
Then I started to think about my characters. A friend of mine said she had trouble getting into her characters and asked how do I get into mine. Most of the time they are there, they just come to me, sometimes music helps (okay, it helps a lot). For some reason, I somehow put myself into them. I see, feel, hear, taste and smell everything that is going on around them. I am apart of them and that's what I want my reader to feel. I write first person so I want my reader to be the character.
But what about the other characters? You know, your supportive cast. You have to get into them too, mainly to make them authentic, as real as the main character. Those characters can give you trouble, blocking you out, and not letting you in, especially if you "know" your main character inside and out, it can be hard to get into another characters head. The first thing to try (if you haven't done it already) is to write out details about that character. Treat it like an interview. Ask different questions you want to know--age, eye color, likes, dislikes, etc. Don't get scared if they answer you. It's part of the process. If they still seem a little foreign, then try strapping the helmet cam to their head. What would they see and hear? What would they touch and eat? You may see more than you knew about them in the first place. It may put you in their perspective and eventually put you into them.
Now, this is a by no means a proven method, just something I just happen to stumble upon over the weekend in my crazy thought process. So, that's my quick post this morning. You may think its a little strange, but it may work. As for my cat, no helmet cam yet.
How do you get into your supportive characters heads?
How was your weekend?
Any goals for the week?
My goals finish a MS for a CP and finish my first draft. Pretty much the same as last week.
Have a great day!
Then I started to think about my characters. A friend of mine said she had trouble getting into her characters and asked how do I get into mine. Most of the time they are there, they just come to me, sometimes music helps (okay, it helps a lot). For some reason, I somehow put myself into them. I see, feel, hear, taste and smell everything that is going on around them. I am apart of them and that's what I want my reader to feel. I write first person so I want my reader to be the character.
But what about the other characters? You know, your supportive cast. You have to get into them too, mainly to make them authentic, as real as the main character. Those characters can give you trouble, blocking you out, and not letting you in, especially if you "know" your main character inside and out, it can be hard to get into another characters head. The first thing to try (if you haven't done it already) is to write out details about that character. Treat it like an interview. Ask different questions you want to know--age, eye color, likes, dislikes, etc. Don't get scared if they answer you. It's part of the process. If they still seem a little foreign, then try strapping the helmet cam to their head. What would they see and hear? What would they touch and eat? You may see more than you knew about them in the first place. It may put you in their perspective and eventually put you into them.
Now, this is a by no means a proven method, just something I just happen to stumble upon over the weekend in my crazy thought process. So, that's my quick post this morning. You may think its a little strange, but it may work. As for my cat, no helmet cam yet.
How do you get into your supportive characters heads?
How was your weekend?
Any goals for the week?
My goals finish a MS for a CP and finish my first draft. Pretty much the same as last week.
Have a great day!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Kindle or Nook and German beer
First contest--Frankie is having a book giveaway. Not sure when it ends. Check out her hysterical vlogs while you're there. There is another book giveaway at the First Novels Club too (Frankie participates on this blog). So check it out after you read my post, or go and read it, then come back. Your choice.
Another contest at Paul Joseph Writes--A book giveaway of the The Great Lenore by J.M. Tohline. Looks like a great book. Paul writes a wonderful review about it. Ends June 6th.
Let me just say, I had a great time this weekend. Spending time with friends and family was great. If you are in Philly and need some close to authentic German fare (I'm talking food and beer. Oh and atmosphere), definitely try Brauhaus Schmitz or Frankford Hall or both. Both provided great times. I say no more, and no, I don't have pictures for you. **coughs** Lots of hypothetical stories.:)
In other news--I'm probably one of the only people on the planet who does not have a Kindle or Nook. I'll wait while you laugh at me. It takes me a while to give in to some things. I love holding a book. The smell of the pages and the beautiful colors on the covers make me happy. It's like a work of art on my shelves. Here's the deal. It's called room. I'm running out of room for my book collection. Yes, I could give some away, but a lot of them are close to me in one way or another.
My husband asked a while back if I wanted one of these reading devices and I stomped my foot, and said, "No way are you kidding me?" Now, after hearing how awesome they are, and realizing I can't have a library as big as my house, I'm considering one (kicking and screaming a little).Although, I still will buy books that I truly love. I can't stop completely, jeez. What kind of person do you think I am?
Here's my question (pretty obvious, I'm sure):
If you have one of these do you like it?
Which one would you recommend? Kindle 3 or Nook color?
Any advice when buying one?
How was your weekend and your goals?
My goals are to read a MS and finish writing my first draft. Okay, the first draft will most likely be finished next week, but I can dream.
Have a great day!
Another contest at Paul Joseph Writes--A book giveaway of the The Great Lenore by J.M. Tohline. Looks like a great book. Paul writes a wonderful review about it. Ends June 6th.
Let me just say, I had a great time this weekend. Spending time with friends and family was great. If you are in Philly and need some close to authentic German fare (I'm talking food and beer. Oh and atmosphere), definitely try Brauhaus Schmitz or Frankford Hall or both. Both provided great times. I say no more, and no, I don't have pictures for you. **coughs** Lots of hypothetical stories.:)
In other news--I'm probably one of the only people on the planet who does not have a Kindle or Nook. I'll wait while you laugh at me. It takes me a while to give in to some things. I love holding a book. The smell of the pages and the beautiful colors on the covers make me happy. It's like a work of art on my shelves. Here's the deal. It's called room. I'm running out of room for my book collection. Yes, I could give some away, but a lot of them are close to me in one way or another.
My husband asked a while back if I wanted one of these reading devices and I stomped my foot, and said, "No way are you kidding me?" Now, after hearing how awesome they are, and realizing I can't have a library as big as my house, I'm considering one (kicking and screaming a little).Although, I still will buy books that I truly love. I can't stop completely, jeez. What kind of person do you think I am?
Here's my question (pretty obvious, I'm sure):
If you have one of these do you like it?
Which one would you recommend? Kindle 3 or Nook color?
Any advice when buying one?
How was your weekend and your goals?
My goals are to read a MS and finish writing my first draft. Okay, the first draft will most likely be finished next week, but I can dream.
Have a great day!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Monday Mumbles
Just saw this and had to draw it to your attention. You can win a query + 30 page MS critique by the lovely Frankie (Frankie Writes). You know you want to, so go and bid on her. The money goes to a great cause--All 4 Alabama. Get over there. The bidding started at 11 and will go on for five days. Go, after you read my post, or go now, and come back. :) I give you options.
On with my post--This was another crazy weekend for me and I made it through. I did get a little writing done last week and it felt so good. The weekend, like I said, was crazy. My dad, my brother and I threw a surprise birthday party for my mom. We've been planning this since March so it's been on my mind. It basically broke down like this.
1. Thursday night --brother comes into town. He lives 3000 miles away so we don't get to see him much. Kids go crazy wanting to play, and they play past their bedtime, making them super hyper giggly.
2. Friday run errands for last minute things.
3. Friday night--totally bummed I couldn't go to Jeri Smith Ready's booksigning in Delaware. Frustrated--yes. I just got Shift and I wanted her to sign it since I have a signed copy of Shade (I love that book.:)). I'm hoping she comes back into town. Hint, hint. Seriously hoping she comes back to my area. Hint, hint.
4. Saturday-recover from not going to the booksigning and focus on the party. Finish making a collage and make sure everything is ready.
5. Since brother is an awesome cook, he makes a spectacular dinner.
6. Wish I could party like my brother can. (He has no kids.)
7.Sunday--Since my dad's birthday is close to my mom's and he told me not in any way, shape or form to surprise him too. I, not listening as usual, purchase a surprise cake for him. I wait, okay, I pace back and forth waiting for his cake to arrive at my house.
8. Surprise cake arrives and my brother and I pack up, go to venue, set up, and greet the guests. Nervous twitches pinch my stomach hoping everything will work out.
9. Brother hides in the bar of the venue as an extra surprise for my mom. My mind switches to writer mode, and I think on how to describe the whole event in story form.
10. Surprise. My mom cries, and we swiftly escort her to the bar where she breaks down in heavy tears, emotionally moving everyone who attended.
11. I realize that even though I complain, and sometimes envy those who don't have kids, I'm happy to have my buggers. The whole party, that was extremely emotional, shed light on what's important--family, friends, and living. It showed me how important family can be. Sure I have my moments, and yeah, I have those jealous times of I want to do what I want, when I want, but when my mom saw all of us and then my brother, it not only hinted at how important we are to her, but how important she is to us. I looked at my kids, with some blurry tears, hugged them tight, and realized how important they are to me.
Have you had any moments of a reality check?
Do you take moments and begin to put them in story form? Writer trait, no?
But I still love my writing too, and yes, determination is still burning hot, which leads me to goals.
1. Read an MS for a CP.
2. Read a chapter for another CP.
3. Write, write, write. I'm starting to get the itch to go back to WiP one and revise, but I know I have to finish WiP two.
How was your weekend?
What are your goals for the week?
Have a great day!
On with my post--This was another crazy weekend for me and I made it through. I did get a little writing done last week and it felt so good. The weekend, like I said, was crazy. My dad, my brother and I threw a surprise birthday party for my mom. We've been planning this since March so it's been on my mind. It basically broke down like this.
1. Thursday night --brother comes into town. He lives 3000 miles away so we don't get to see him much. Kids go crazy wanting to play, and they play past their bedtime, making them super hyper giggly.
2. Friday run errands for last minute things.
3. Friday night--totally bummed I couldn't go to Jeri Smith Ready's booksigning in Delaware. Frustrated--yes. I just got Shift and I wanted her to sign it since I have a signed copy of Shade (I love that book.:)). I'm hoping she comes back into town. Hint, hint. Seriously hoping she comes back to my area. Hint, hint.
4. Saturday-recover from not going to the booksigning and focus on the party. Finish making a collage and make sure everything is ready.
5. Since brother is an awesome cook, he makes a spectacular dinner.
6. Wish I could party like my brother can. (He has no kids.)
7.Sunday--Since my dad's birthday is close to my mom's and he told me not in any way, shape or form to surprise him too. I, not listening as usual, purchase a surprise cake for him. I wait, okay, I pace back and forth waiting for his cake to arrive at my house.
8. Surprise cake arrives and my brother and I pack up, go to venue, set up, and greet the guests. Nervous twitches pinch my stomach hoping everything will work out.
9. Brother hides in the bar of the venue as an extra surprise for my mom. My mind switches to writer mode, and I think on how to describe the whole event in story form.
10. Surprise. My mom cries, and we swiftly escort her to the bar where she breaks down in heavy tears, emotionally moving everyone who attended.
11. I realize that even though I complain, and sometimes envy those who don't have kids, I'm happy to have my buggers. The whole party, that was extremely emotional, shed light on what's important--family, friends, and living. It showed me how important family can be. Sure I have my moments, and yeah, I have those jealous times of I want to do what I want, when I want, but when my mom saw all of us and then my brother, it not only hinted at how important we are to her, but how important she is to us. I looked at my kids, with some blurry tears, hugged them tight, and realized how important they are to me.
Have you had any moments of a reality check?
Do you take moments and begin to put them in story form? Writer trait, no?
But I still love my writing too, and yes, determination is still burning hot, which leads me to goals.
1. Read an MS for a CP.
2. Read a chapter for another CP.
3. Write, write, write. I'm starting to get the itch to go back to WiP one and revise, but I know I have to finish WiP two.
How was your weekend?
What are your goals for the week?
Have a great day!
Monday, May 16, 2011
Phew!
Okay, so blogger being down last week totally messed me up with my posts. That means today's post-- not what I was planning.
This weekend I was a busy gal. Between a bridal shower and my goddaughters birthday party, I managed to go to Philly lit night. It was a blast as usual. Yes, we talked about writing, but of course, the conversation can sway with hypothetical stories and descriptions of wine vacuums. *coughs* No, I'm not going there. Thanks Simon and Frankie! Can't wait till the next meeting. We did get a group shot of all the cool folks, but I haven't seen it yet.
I also managed to get out of my slump. I think. I'm visualizing what I have to do to fill in some parts, and just to be clear with my CP, Kelly, I have not written them. I only put the ideas in my journal. :) I also figured out how I want to proceed. That means I need to get my butt in gear and write.
I even managed to set up a gmail account for my writing stuff. Ahh yes, in preparation for the ton of rejections I will be receiving, I set up a seperate email for my writing. I tried several versions of my name, but they were all taken, which is a little scary.
Where does that lead this post--my goals for the week-- to fit in writing between cleaning. Yeah, that's it.
How was your weekend?
What are your goals?
OMG, I totally forgot--see blogger being down totally screwed me up. The amazing and lovely Stina Lindenblatt is having a contest for reaching 500 followers! Totally amazing, and since she is so awesome, you must go over and congratulate her. You know you love her cool links Fridays. Now go, people! Ends May 29th.
Have a great day!
This weekend I was a busy gal. Between a bridal shower and my goddaughters birthday party, I managed to go to Philly lit night. It was a blast as usual. Yes, we talked about writing, but of course, the conversation can sway with hypothetical stories and descriptions of wine vacuums. *coughs* No, I'm not going there. Thanks Simon and Frankie! Can't wait till the next meeting. We did get a group shot of all the cool folks, but I haven't seen it yet.
I also managed to get out of my slump. I think. I'm visualizing what I have to do to fill in some parts, and just to be clear with my CP, Kelly, I have not written them. I only put the ideas in my journal. :) I also figured out how I want to proceed. That means I need to get my butt in gear and write.
I even managed to set up a gmail account for my writing stuff. Ahh yes, in preparation for the ton of rejections I will be receiving, I set up a seperate email for my writing. I tried several versions of my name, but they were all taken, which is a little scary.
Where does that lead this post--my goals for the week-- to fit in writing between cleaning. Yeah, that's it.
How was your weekend?
What are your goals?
OMG, I totally forgot--see blogger being down totally screwed me up. The amazing and lovely Stina Lindenblatt is having a contest for reaching 500 followers! Totally amazing, and since she is so awesome, you must go over and congratulate her. You know you love her cool links Fridays. Now go, people! Ends May 29th.
Have a great day!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Don't forget to Live
The weekend was good. Lots of time spent with friends and family. Plus, we had great weather yesterday. A couple of things happened last week that got me to think about a lot. I hear you, "Uh oh, she's thinking." Before you snooze, I promise I'll try and make this short (especially because the list I have is way long).
I get caught up in a lot of things. The worlds I create, the characters, critiques, blog, facebook, writer friends, you know. Then I look at my house you know how that is--there's laundry which takes days to do and then when you finish, it starts all over, dust piled up about an inch thick, cat litter (not discussing), dinners, attention, toys r us throwing up all over your family room (so much cleaning up is required to walk), broken glasses that need to get fixed, birthday parties, showers, doctors appointments, yeah everyday life gets crazy.
But then all of it stops when your 5 year old asks you this, "Mommy, why do things die?" Yeah. I think I stopped breathing. Now, I know questions like this are coming and I try to answer them in the best five year old way that I can while being honest. I explained, in a brief sort of way, an answer. Then she hit me with this--"Mommy, will you die?" Which my heart broke especially because she started crying. Again, I answered as honest and as easy as I could.
My point--Get out and live when you can. Yes, I like to curl up in my cave and write, revise, live in my worlds and talk to my characters, but there is a point where I have to shut it off and get out. Clense the mind and soak in a little bit of real (I know scary). I want all of it--the agent, the book deal and I want people to say hey she's a great author or have someone come up to me at a book signing and say, "I love your characters." I dream big. I'm determined, like really determined, plus, I have a lot of proving to myself and to others that I can. This is not a hobby, I know it. I have to prove to others it's not.
As much as I want all of it now, yes, like today, I'm willing to work my butt off for it. It may take years, but I have to stop and breathe. To soak in life. Hey, you never know what may spark a story.
How was your weekend?
Do you stop and soak life in?
Any goals this week?
My goals--Small for writing, hopefully to write 1k. Small compared to the past few weeks, but the hubs is off next week so I have to get things in order.
Have a great day!
I get caught up in a lot of things. The worlds I create, the characters, critiques, blog, facebook, writer friends, you know. Then I look at my house you know how that is--there's laundry which takes days to do and then when you finish, it starts all over, dust piled up about an inch thick, cat litter (not discussing), dinners, attention, toys r us throwing up all over your family room (so much cleaning up is required to walk), broken glasses that need to get fixed, birthday parties, showers, doctors appointments, yeah everyday life gets crazy.
But then all of it stops when your 5 year old asks you this, "Mommy, why do things die?" Yeah. I think I stopped breathing. Now, I know questions like this are coming and I try to answer them in the best five year old way that I can while being honest. I explained, in a brief sort of way, an answer. Then she hit me with this--"Mommy, will you die?" Which my heart broke especially because she started crying. Again, I answered as honest and as easy as I could.
My point--Get out and live when you can. Yes, I like to curl up in my cave and write, revise, live in my worlds and talk to my characters, but there is a point where I have to shut it off and get out. Clense the mind and soak in a little bit of real (I know scary). I want all of it--the agent, the book deal and I want people to say hey she's a great author or have someone come up to me at a book signing and say, "I love your characters." I dream big. I'm determined, like really determined, plus, I have a lot of proving to myself and to others that I can. This is not a hobby, I know it. I have to prove to others it's not.
As much as I want all of it now, yes, like today, I'm willing to work my butt off for it. It may take years, but I have to stop and breathe. To soak in life. Hey, you never know what may spark a story.
How was your weekend?
Do you stop and soak life in?
Any goals this week?
My goals--Small for writing, hopefully to write 1k. Small compared to the past few weeks, but the hubs is off next week so I have to get things in order.
Have a great day!
Monday, April 18, 2011
The weekend.
The weekend was pretty good. There was some consumption of this:
House and all. There's a lot going on in there and it's torn between writing the new one and revising the old. I know, focus Christine, but lately I'm having a hard time. I have real life, writing, revisions, wanting to write a query, cleaning, laundry, all of it swirling around and not stopping on one thought. It's quite frustrating. The one thing that did help is I set time aside to write and that has made this new WiP seem to go a little faster than the last one. I'm sure I'll have a lot of revisions, but the story is there. The problem: I'm stuck again. My cure to that is to skip to the next chapter. I'm an out of order gal so that shouldn't be a problem, but my want to start querying keeps putting my brain back to revise the other MS and get it out there. I guess my brain is not only in a tornado, but this:
Oh and I got TV time in. I watched part of this:
I should read the book first, but let's be realistic, that's not happening right now. So far it's good. Me likes.
So there you have it, my weekend and strange brain process.
My goals this week:
-To write at least 5,000 more words.
-Keep focused.
How was your weekend?
What are your goals?
How do you stay focused?
Have a great day!
and some of this happened:
Not in that order. Well, yes, in that order, but on different days. One on Friday night and one on Saturday. I'm done explaining myself. Although, I didn't meet my goal of 30,000 words, I did make it to 26,000. Be happy for what you get done, right?
And this morning my brain feels like this:
photo removed.
photo removed.
A full on war between two stories. Their fighting for attention. That could be a story itself. Oh and I got TV time in. I watched part of this:
So there you have it, my weekend and strange brain process.
My goals this week:
-To write at least 5,000 more words.
-Keep focused.
How was your weekend?
What are your goals?
How do you stay focused?
Have a great day!
Monday, March 28, 2011
Really, it's Monday
A little Monday inspiration
I did do more research over the weekend to strengthen my writing. I was directed to some great links along with just stumbling across some. Yeah, my weekends are usually family oriented, but weekend nights. . . once you have kids, (mine are still small) things tend to change, and you find yourself with a beer and a laptop. I did manage to hit 10,000 words in the past tense version (of new WiP) and I need to do more brainstorming, which will come. I'm not sure how you work, but I'm finding that I write in spurts. The story and the characters show themselves to me in vivid fashion. Then the brain dries up for a few days, almost like a scary tease that nothing will come again. I shut the computer down, quit looking at the blank screen and it comes.
I thought I would share the links I've found.
Grammar Girl-The current post is on mixing verb tenses. I've used this one before.
Les Edgerton- An interesting post on adverbs and adjectives in writing. His posts never disappoint.
Nail Your Novel- Inspiring post on writing.
Rules to Write By--Thanks to Las Vegas Writer (Natascha) for directing me to her website. She had to design a grammar website for a class she took. Great job Natascha! This was very helpful.
I'm trying to set myself some goals, which I'm cringing at. I know in the world of having an agent, (hopefully, one day) I will need to work with deadlines so I'm trying to give myself some just to keep things moving. I'm hoping by May to have this first draft done. That's a tall order and a lot of pressure, but I hope to keep it moving. That way it can sit and brew (I still have beer on the brain) before revisions, and I can go back to WiP #1's revisions.
So how was your weekend?
Any goals for the week?
Oh and has anyone seen Red Riding Hood? I know looks a little cheesy, but Shiloh Fernandez and Max Irons. I say no more.
Hey, don't judge. Have a great day!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Keeping it real and finding the heart
Thanks to Simon and Frankie for another fun Philly lit night. I was so sad I had to leave before dinner. :( Definitely will stay next time.
Another thing that was super fantastic this weekend is-- I got my first ARC. Yes, I'm excited, so keep watching for my review.
I basically took the weekend off from writing. Well, I never fully take off because I think about my stories constantly, so my brain wasn't fully in vacation mode. The end of last week was sort of rough and I had to re-evaluate some things, including myself. Blogging can get in your head, reading other writers progress was making me compare myself and that's just bad. So, instead of totally curling up into a hole, I'm plugging through. All of this nonsense actually helped me come up with the heart of my story, which is the problem that put me in a tizzy last week. I needed to find the heart.
The heart is why you're telling the story in the first place. What makes the character change and why? Why should the reader care? This has to be evident in the first chapter and what made me so crazy last week. The funny part is-- I've been feeling and dealing with what my character is going through for many years. I guess that's why I'm pretty determined to write it. Crazy, how things come about.
So, this week I will be digging deep into this character's head to make the first chapter make sense (hopefully), and then write the rest. Whew.
Have you found the heart of your story?
How was your weekend?
What are your goals this week?
Have a great day!
Another thing that was super fantastic this weekend is-- I got my first ARC. Yes, I'm excited, so keep watching for my review.
I basically took the weekend off from writing. Well, I never fully take off because I think about my stories constantly, so my brain wasn't fully in vacation mode. The end of last week was sort of rough and I had to re-evaluate some things, including myself. Blogging can get in your head, reading other writers progress was making me compare myself and that's just bad. So, instead of totally curling up into a hole, I'm plugging through. All of this nonsense actually helped me come up with the heart of my story, which is the problem that put me in a tizzy last week. I needed to find the heart.
The heart is why you're telling the story in the first place. What makes the character change and why? Why should the reader care? This has to be evident in the first chapter and what made me so crazy last week. The funny part is-- I've been feeling and dealing with what my character is going through for many years. I guess that's why I'm pretty determined to write it. Crazy, how things come about.
So, this week I will be digging deep into this character's head to make the first chapter make sense (hopefully), and then write the rest. Whew.
Have you found the heart of your story?
How was your weekend?
What are your goals this week?
Have a great day!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Paranormalcy by Kiersten White
I decided to do a short review today. As you know, things have been a little hectic. Since I've been limited on writing time, I've been reading. I checked out this little nugget.
Yeah...look at that cover. The inside doesn't disappoint. The girl on the cover reminds me of Scarlett Johansson.
Title: Paranormalcy
Author: Kiersten White
Publisher: Harper Teen
Pages: 352
The Blurb:
Sixteen-year-old Evie learns that she is not quite the person she thought she was in this creature-feature mash-up. Possessing the unique ability to recognize paranormals beneath their glamour, Evie has lived most of her life under the protection of the International Paranormal Containment Agreement (IPCA), an organization dedicated to the cataloging and neutralizing of paranormal creatures. After a mysterious entity begins killing paranormals around the world, Evie discovers some startling truths about her own identity.
My take:
I'm about to gush about this book. I loved it. It's fresh, fast paced, and the characters...what can I say. I'm speechless. They are wonderful and strong. I really admire Ms. White's ability to write characters I care about. The story itself was nice mix of twisting mystery, action, and humor. I loved Evie and her little comments. I found myself laughing outloud at some parts, and sitting on the edge of my seat at others. Lend, Evie's love interest, had me swooning too. This made paranormal seem normal.
The End:
I did enjoy the end. I think it was the perfect balance of letting it be a solo book, but some things could be fleshed out in a sequel. I'm keeping this short because I think you should go get it now. :)
There you go. I LOVED this book. It's so different from the norm. hehe.
I will be posting tomorrow as part of the What's your Writing Process Blogfest hosted by Shallee.
How was your weekend?
Any goals?
My goals are the same as last week. REVISE and WRITE before I'm taken away for being grumpy.
Have a great day!
Monday, January 3, 2011
First Year Blogoversary
She also told me to start blogging. I definitely didn't know what I was getting myself into or what to expect. Many things have happened and, well, I've learned a lot. I didn't think I was ever interesting so I'm quite flattered all you blogger buddies are reading what I write. I even got to meet some of you in person. So fun. I've found wonderful critique partners, and people that are just plain awesome. The support has been amazing.Thank you! Yeah, you keep me going.
When I started, I finished what I thought was a first draft. I guess now it's sort of like a really detailed outline. I've re-written most of my WiP#1, but I'm happy where it's going. Sure I'm about to rip my hair out at times, but that's part of this whole thing. This journey. I've decided to share my current stats:
WiP#1 --working title: Lingering Souls (first draft/loose outline 87,000 words), re-writes/revisions 60,000 words
WiP#2--outlining
WiP#3--working title: Wrapping Paper currently outlining, 2500 words written.
Six other ideas just waiting.
With all this. I've had to learn how to critique, and how to take a critique (still not easy). I've had an agent tear my work apart, and I've had a senior editor tell me my idea and synopsis were cool, interesting and intriguing. This basically made my year, and pushed me to keep going. For every hit that knocked me down, I searched for something to pick me up. Becoming more positive is something I've had to work hard at (I'm natually a pessimist), and I've had to learn patience. That has been the hardest.
I started this blog like a horse racing towards the finish line. I was everywhere, wanting to know more, thinking I would be finished WiP#1 and query it in about 6 months. For a seasoned author, sure, but for me...no. I'm learning, I admit it. Plus, I have two kids, a hubs, and a household to run. I'm not complaining, I'm just statin' the facts here folks. I was in a hurry to do so many things that I realized I really need to take my time at this, if I don't, stupid mistakes happen.
So I'm ending my freshman year, happy. Like most freshman, I thought I knew it all, tried to rush through it, and possibly partied too hard. The wake up call was learning what it takes, and if I can take it. The answer-- I can, and I can't wait to keep going. It took me this long to pursue this, and I'm going to die trying.
Now that the New Year is here, I have some--ahem--goals/resolutions for my sophomore year:
1. To finish WiP#1--it's been almost two years since I started it, and I want it done. Thanks to all my CPs who have suffered through this.
2. Query WiP#1 in the fall. Don't laugh.
3. Work on WiP#3.Would love to finish the first draft. **fingers crossed**
4. Learn more.
5. Learn even more.
6. Read more than I did last year.
7. Figure out a schedule that works best for my writing.
8. Fit into that schedule some sort of exercise because I ate way too many cookies.
9. Comment more and update this blog. It's been too long.
10. Spend time with the family. I do this now, but it doesn't hurt to try and fit more time in.
Well, there it is. Sure, most of it may be a little above and beyond, but, hey, it's worth a shot.
Let's hear from you:
What are your goals this year?
Was Santa good to you?
Any tips on how to create an awesome writing schedule with family duties? (I'm always looking for advice on this.)
I have some exciting things coming up. Contest--of course. To be announced this next week. Also, another blogfest. This time Writing the Next Line blogfest. I will announce on Wednesday.
Thanks again to Frankie for hosting that awesome No Kiss Blogfest yesterday. I hope to read more entries today!
Have a wonderful day and thank you, thank you, thank you! Here's to 2011! *toasting my glass* Prost!
Monday, December 6, 2010
Are they speaking to you?
This post is more about looking to you guys for your advice,opinion or both. I'm sort of confused about a certain topic. You know, when your reading a book and a character seems to ask you a question. When they seem to be talking to you. I've been told this is 'talking to the reader'.
I have to admit my first so-called draft had a lot of this, along with a ton of backstory. Seriously, my MC was having a one on one conversation with the reader. As I have grown (I admit, just a little), my brain is starting to recognize this. Many of my CPs have told me to take it out, which I get. Since I've been reading a lot more, it's been easier to pick it up in other critiques that I've done.
Here is where I get confused, and this may be a matter of opinion. It may be that if it fits the story, then it's allowed. I dunno, but lately in a few popular novels, I've seen it and seen it a lot. Is this something that is okay in publishing? In my opinion, it does slow the story down a lot. In fact, I'm beginning to cut as much out of my MS as possible. Like I said, maybe it's just me, but the less of this, the better. For me.
So, I want to know from you.
What is your opinion on this?
Do you like it?
And when is it best to use it?
The weekend was busy, but Friday, I wrote some new stuff for WiP#3 and revised a chapter for WiP#1 (yeah, I'm excited). I plan to continue revising, plus work on my piece for my blogfest. See over there, on my sidebar. It's on Monday, so spread the word.
How was your weekend?
Any goals?
I'm full of questions today. Have a great day!
I have to admit my first so-called draft had a lot of this, along with a ton of backstory. Seriously, my MC was having a one on one conversation with the reader. As I have grown (I admit, just a little), my brain is starting to recognize this. Many of my CPs have told me to take it out, which I get. Since I've been reading a lot more, it's been easier to pick it up in other critiques that I've done.
Here is where I get confused, and this may be a matter of opinion. It may be that if it fits the story, then it's allowed. I dunno, but lately in a few popular novels, I've seen it and seen it a lot. Is this something that is okay in publishing? In my opinion, it does slow the story down a lot. In fact, I'm beginning to cut as much out of my MS as possible. Like I said, maybe it's just me, but the less of this, the better. For me.
So, I want to know from you.
What is your opinion on this?
Do you like it?
And when is it best to use it?
The weekend was busy, but Friday, I wrote some new stuff for WiP#3 and revised a chapter for WiP#1 (yeah, I'm excited). I plan to continue revising, plus work on my piece for my blogfest. See over there, on my sidebar. It's on Monday, so spread the word.
How was your weekend?
Any goals?
I'm full of questions today. Have a great day!
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