WRITING IN A NUTSHELL

Catch Fire Blog Party!

2012-02-28T05:00:00.001-05:00

Alright guys... it's finally here... the long awaited and anticipated event!!

The CATCH FIRE BLOG PARTY!!

Alex, our very own Ninja Captain, is releasing the sequel to his incredible novel CassaStar.

I've known Alex for almost two years, and honestly, I can't say enough about him. Always ready to lend a helping hand or offer support in any way, Alex is one of the most down to earth, awesome, incredible bloggers/authors out there, and I am so honored to be able to share in his journey.

Please continue reading for more details, and don't forget to check out Alex's site... I PROMISE you, you will not be disappointed!

Today is the Catch Fire Blog Party, celebrating the release of CassaFire by Alex J. Cavanaugh! The goal is to help CassaFire “catch fire” on the best seller charts and achieve the success of the first book, CassaStar.

There’s also a special package of prizes being given away at the author’s blog (copies of CassaFire, CassaStar, tote bag, mug, and bookmarks) as well as book giveaways during his two-week blog tour (February 27 - March 9).

Check it out!!

See Alex’s site for additional details: http://alexjcavanaugh.blogspot.com/

CassaFire

by Alex J. Cavanaugh

CassaStar was just the beginning…

The Vindicarn War is a distant memory and Byron’s days of piloting Cosbolt fighters are over. He has kept the promise he made to his fallen mentor and friend - to probe space on an exploration vessel. Shuttle work is dull, but it’s a free and solitary existence. The senior officer is content with his life aboard the Rennather.

The detection of alien ruins sends the exploration ship to the distant planet of Tgren. If their scientists can decipher the language, they can unlock the secrets of this device. Is it a key to the Tgren’s civilization or a weapon of unimaginable power? Tensions mount as their new allies are suspicious of the Cassan’s technology and strange mental abilities.

To complicate matters, the Tgrens are showing signs of mental powers themselves; the strongest of which belongs to a pilot named Athee, a woman whose skills rival Byron’s unique abilities. Forced to train her mind and further develop her flying aptitude, he finds his patience strained. Add a reluctant friendship with a young scientist, and he feels invaded on every level. All Byron wanted was his privacy…

Available today!

Barnes and Noble

Amazon

Amazon Kindle

CassaFire is the sequel to Cavanaugh’s first book, CassaStar, an Amazon Top Ten Best Seller:

“…calls to mind the youthful focus of Robert Heinlein’s early military sf, as well as the excitement of space opera epitomized by the many Star Wars novels. Fast-paced military action and a youthful protagonist make this a good choice for both young adult and adult fans of space wars.” - Library Journal

Okay... are you still here? Why are you still here? Go get your copy of CassaFire today!!! :)

Insecure Writer's Support Group: OMG.. is it REALLY 2012?

2012-01-04T02:22:00.002-05:00

So... uh... did anyone notice that 2012 just sort of snuck up on us? No? Is it just me?

Happy New Year guys!!!!

I think I may have officially won the award for worst blogger these last couple of months. I'm currently in the middle of a fantastic cold that I managed to get RIGHT before New Year's Eve... so it sort of delayed my return even more... *hides face in shame*

I was looking at last year's resolutions (naturally), and I realized I'd come down with the flu during the holiday season in 2010 as well. Weird, huh?

I don't think I'm going to make a list of resolutions this year... I'm terrible with them... but I will make just one though, and it's in honor of our monthly Insecure Writer's Support Group (which by the way, is an awesome way to start the new year and return to blogging - thanks Alex!).

And here it is:

BELIEVE

That's it.

(And it's so serendipitous how this theme seems to be EVERYWHERE lately ;) )

Sometimes this is the hardest part of being a writer... believing in yourself.

I know it's something I've struggled with tremendously in the past year. Some days have seemed beyond bleak, and I wondered what I was trying to prove. Why I continued to tread down this path when most of the time it seemed like I was getting nowhere.

It's not true. Every single process, every erased word, every daunting scene, every rewrite, every mistake made, every lesson learned... they move us forward.

So deep down, I know why I don't give up... even if I forget sometimes.

I love it.

Plain and simple. It makes me feel peace in this world of chaos. All the tiny pieces of my heart and soul that are tugged in a million different directions throughout each and every day all slip back into place when I look at that page.

I feel alive.

It reminds me of who I am, of my hopes and dreams... without writing, a piece of me is missing. A part of me goes dark and hollow and I never realize what is bothering me until I pick up that pen again.

And... because I DO believe in it... more than I have anything else.

I've been working on this book for 3 years now. 3 YEARS. I know the exact day I started it. It's been through several overhauls, and there are probably several more to come.

But I believe in it. I will keep believing in it. And I believe in each and every one of you. And I will keep believing in each and every one of you.

So there we have it... my resolution for this year... I'm going to believe in me and you, and all that we can do.

I wish everyone an awesome 2012... filled with oodles of agent requests and book deals and author signings. And here's hoping... no BELIEVing... that all of our dreams come true.

Because they will, guys. They will :)

What are your resolutions for the new year?

Will Be Back Soon

2011-11-23T19:38:00.003-05:00

Hey Guys,

So sorry for my absence from the blogosphere. I shall be back in the next week or two. Just finishing up another round of revisions, and then things should go back to normal I hope.

I miss you guys! How is everyone doing?

Any of you participating in NaNo this year? How are those WiP's going?

Halloween Kisses

2011-10-26T05:00:00.003-04:00

I've recently discovered these incredibly addictive molasses candies that I am totally and completely in love with.

Okay, re-discovered is more like it.

Do you know the ones I'm talking about? The toffee like pieces of candy that come individually wrapped in the orange, yellow and black paper? I used to get these in my Halloween bag all the time, and I remember sorting them out and putting them in the "not so great" pile.

How could they possibly compare to peanut butter cups or chocolatey covered nougat? But that never stopped me from unwrapping one or two, just for the heck of it (I mean, who was I to waste candy?).

A few days ago, I bit into one and it immediately took me back to my childhood. They're soft and gooey and chewy, and oh-so-good. And even though I saw absolutely no value in them back then, that one bite almost fifteen years later changed things.

Not only did they have value, but I actually chose to get them over the Mars Bars.

So, of course, one thing led to another, and you just know it got me thinking. A lot of the time we may write off a scene, chapter or entire novel, because it doesn't fit into our current goals and objectives. And I know the golden rule is to cut what doesn't work. Clean it up.

But then again, maybe it just doesn't work right now.

Save it. Come back to it. Maybe it will better fit somewhere else in your life... at a different point, in a different chapter... in a new story. Go through your shelved manuscripts, your long forgotten short stories. Who knows? You may just find a sweet treasure hidden within the pages.

So, my burning question.... what's your favorite Halloween candy? ;) AND, have you ever found ideas in an old MS or story that you could use now?

A Blank Page

2011-10-24T10:02:00.005-04:00

As you guys know, I'm currently hacking my way through edits on my MS.

Right now, I'm staring at Chapter One, wondering how I can rework it.

Again.

I've already changed it three times. And to be honest, there is nothing more I can do.

It's time. To scrap the whole thing and start over.

With a blank page.

Let's face it. A blank page is scary. As a writer, it can be hard to find anything more intimidating than that empty white screen with the flashing cursor.

But there is also something refresing and reassuring about the blank page. Because in reality, it's hope in disguise, even though it seems to be dressed up for Halloween, ready to haunt you.

There are no limits. The prospects are endless. Instead of working with what you've got, you have the freedom to explore, to create, to venture outside the confinement of your scene or chapter.

It's a canvas of possibility.

Even when you're halfway through edits and your story is pretty much complete. Sometimes it's even better, because you already have your framework. You know where you want to go... Where you need to end up. You just need to remove yourself from the slush. Rehashing and overthinking your scene can become repetitive, stirring the same spot over and over until all you have is one big pile of messy scrambled eggs.

Set it aside. Open a new page. And see what you come up with. You might be surprised.

Have you guys ever reached the point where you need to edit your scenes/chapters by starting afresh? Do you find it easier than trying to make sense of what you've got when it's not working? What works for you?

Keep On Truckin'

2011-10-21T05:00:00.003-04:00

A guy wrote this in my ninth grade yearbook. That's it. No "see you next year" or "it's been cool knowing you". Just "Keep on truckin'" scrawled above his name.

After that I heard the expression everywhere, and it used to drive me crazy. Who even says that?

It drifted back to my mind recently as I've been struggling through edits. This book is finished guys, but it's still not...right. I can feel it. I know it can be better. I know there's still lots of work to do.

One of the most difficult things in this process so far has been the following:

Looking at a swelling 100k MS, realizing I have to add at least 30k more and then cut 50k... well... it's pretty daunting.

No, I'm lying. It's downright scary. And this is when the book is still living in only my hands.

But I soldiered on. And I did it. But it's still not finished.

And it won't be finished until it's the best I can make it. I feel like that moment is just around the corner... I hope, but I won't know until I feel it.

Until then... I'll just keep on truckin'. I think I've finally learned to appreciate exactly what this means.

Don't give up.

Don't let go.

Don't stop fighting.

Stay with it.

This is your dream, and you deserve it. The hard work will pay off in the end. It always does.

Sooo... which part of this process have you found the most difficult? The easiest? Are you soldiering on... because you better be!

Have a great weekend guys :)

After Happily Ever After

2011-10-19T18:34:00.004-04:00

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, they met and fell in love, and went off in search of great adventure and journeys of epic proportions, bested the beast, slayed the dragon, received her parents approval....

...and lived happily ever after.

But then what?

What happened after all that?

Did they have kids? Grandchildren? Did the evil stepsister come back to exact her revenge? Did his best friend ever become a rock star and buy the jet pack?

Yes, even though I'm short of breath following all the excitement that makes the story what it is... I still want to know.

A part of it may be that I grow so strongly attached to the characters. They become my friends... I care about them, I care about their lives. I want to see them twenty years later... see for myself that not only are they doing well, but that they've succeeded.

Different from a sequel, or a series (although we WILL get into that another day), it's the after that you continue to ponder even when you've been rest assured that everything turned out okay.

Life doesn't just stop at happily ever after, does it?

I do understand the other side of the coin though--sometimes endings are best left exactly where they are. Trying to return to something twenty years later and re-create the same mood often fails. It's always better to end on a high note.

But gosh darn it, I still want to know.

I guess this is why I write... so I can make up my own "after happily ever afters" ;)

Are you guys okay with the happy/satisfying endings you're given? Do you ever wonder what happens to your favorite characters after? Am I the only crazy one who cares to know?

Pay It Forward Blogfest

2011-10-14T04:00:00.003-04:00

Happy Friday Everyone!

Today I am participating in my first ever official blogfest. Yuppers, the incredible brainchild of Matthew and Alex... The Pay it Forward Blogfest! As a general (insane) rule, I never take part in these things, but this is a great initiative, and I couldn't resist.

And guys.. blogfests are FUN... like the "jump out of your seat, run down the street hollering at the top of your lungs fun"... it's fantastic to visit a variety of blogs and read everyone's take on things.

So the name of the game is to get us meeting people, and connecting and making new friends and all that wonderful stuff. All participants must list three awesome blogs they read and think others would also be interested in.

Kapeesh?

Sooooo... without further ado... blogroll please!

1. Theresa's Tales of Teaching Tribulations and Typing Teen Texts - Theresa never fails to amaze me with her down-to-earth, inspirational posts. Always relatable, always spot on and always thought provoking.

2. Words and Such - I've known Kenda for quite some time, and I can always count on her for beautiful, creative posts that just make my day.

3. Claudia Del Balso, Writer - Claudia is a power house of stellar advice and helpful tips for new and aspiring writers. She has published nine short stories and writes for an online magazine.

Please check out these blogs if you have time. No time? Bookmark them and come back to them later... I promise you, you won't be disappointed! :)

What is everyone up to this weekend?

A Dark and Stormy Night

2011-10-12T18:25:00.007-04:00

It's pouring rain outside today. The skies are dark and gloomy... there's a definite chill in the air.

I'm sitting in a familiar foreign place, surrounded by what I don't know, and what I dream about everyday.

Half the time I don't even make sense to myself, let alone anyone else.

Today I am broken. Small pieces. Fragments of what I normally am.

It sounds bad, right? Surprisingly, it's not.

Sometimes I find it the best place to be. It's the place where you reflect, where the thought process takes on a life of its own. Where the words transform on the page... they become more than just words. They hold a deeper meaning.

So what should you do? Use it to your advantage!

Take that dark mood and those swirling emotions and write. Sure, it's the opposite of happy, but it's still beneficial. Just in a different way.

I do some of my best writing in this place. Maybe it's where I do most of my soul searching.

This is also the best place to write those particularly difficult scenes--you know the ones, right? The ones that tear at your heart, and stump your fingers. The ones you have to erase and re-do over and over. The ones that are so hard to get right because they need to be conveyed just so.

Sometimes all it takes is a dark and stormy night...

What about you guys? Does the mood you're in affect your ability to write? Do you find it easier to write gloomier or difficult scenes when you're also in a likewise mood?

Finding Windows and Opening Doors

2011-10-07T04:00:00.004-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Thank you for all your comments, supportive words and encouragement on my last post. It's great to know I'm not alone :)

If I haven't gotten around to your blog as yet, I promise you I'm on my way... apologies for taking so long, a few unexpected things cropped up over the last couple of days that I needed to deal with.

So let's review a few items that have been helpful when I've found myself in the "room with no windows". (If today's topic is new to you, please refer to Wednesday's post for a quick recap.)

There are two main stages to this phenomenon. One is the BEFORE, the other is the AFTER.

See below.

1) First Stage - The Creative Process

This is a great place to be. The ideas are flowing. Inspiration speeds towards you like a runaway train, you can barely keep up. This story is practically writing itself. Only one problem - it's all in your head.

Write it down

Grab that pen and paper and jot it down while it's still fresh in your mind. That way, when you sit down at your computer later, you've already got most of the groundwork complete.

If you have access to your computer and MS, get it in there.

No access to a pen and paper

Quite a few bloggers on Wednesday suggested using a recorder or dictaphone - awesome idea guys! I didn't even think of this one--thanks so much for this suggestion. Record it, listen back to it when you're ready to write.

Your cellphone or other favorite media device (obviously this only applies if you have one). I don't go anywhere without my phone. And phones nowadays have all sort of features. The simplest one? Open up a memo or notepad and type in your thoughts. Again, this will save you the grunt work for later.

None of the above? Try using a mnemonic technique. Create a memorable poem or think of a unique string of words that relate to your thought process. When you return to this phrase later, it can help restore you to the track you were on.

2) Second Stage - The Dark Room

You had no time to get those ideas down. The only tools at your disposal were your mind and a handful of possibilities that you dared to dream while you gazed out the train window or dropped the kids off at school.

Now it's (insert number) hours later, and those same brilliant ideas are no longer coherent... they're tangled up with one another in a disarray of colors, stray letters and clashing sentences. It just doesn't sound right anymore.

Your new problem? You're staring at a blank screen, your brain refusing to connect with your fingers.

Write Anyways

Just start writing. Whether it's good, bad, or complete garbage. Force those words onto the page. Sometimes it all just sorts itself out.

Recreate the Moment

Close your eyes and delve deep in the recesses of your mind. Mentally go back to that mindset that you were in when the ideas came to you. Oftentimes this helps to open the door and let words out.

Take a Short Break

Go for a walk, listen to some relaxing music, surf the web, read some blogs. Take deep breaths, clear your mind and refocus your energy.

Forget About It and Do Something Fun

Just leave it alone. Put it out of your head. We tend to put so much pressure on ourselves and these words that the strain is overwhelming. We freeze. Tense up. Turn off that screen and go do something (else) you genuinely enjoy - something that makes you feel light and happy, even downright giddy. Once that pressure is off, you will be amazed at how quickly the ideas return.

I just realized how long this post is (sorry guys!), but there we have it--what usually works for me. Try them all, and see what works for you. Anything you would like to add? Did I miss any? Please share!

Hope everyone has a wonderful, inspirational and creative weekend :)

Insecure Writer's Support Group: A Room With No Windows

2011-10-05T04:00:00.005-04:00

So today is my first post for the Insecure Writer's Support Group hosted by Mr. Alex J. Cavanaugh.

Today I wanted to talk about something that's been plaguing me for a while. Maybe the last couple of months.

I'm stuck.

But not in the way you would think. The inspiration is there. The ideas are there. The words are there. I just can't seem to get them out.

Last Friday I touched on the subject of how cluttered spaces can create a cluttered mind. Well, that's how my mind has been feeling lately. Cluttered.

There is a serious game of table tennis going on in a windowless room with no doors in the confined spaces of my brain. These words go back and forth, each one ricocheting off the other, colliding with the next new onslaught of "ah-hah's" and "I should do that!".

And there they bounce, with no where to go, not even a small sliver of light in the darkness to provide any release. I sit down each night, and face my screen... overwhelmed, excited, nervous.... and then...

...nothing.

My fingers freeze. The room shuts down. Sentences which made perfect sense three hours before now exist in fragments, each one blending into the next, until it's all a blur.

I know what's causing it. I'm stressed beyond words right now. Too stressed to believe in those very words that keep me going, help me make sense of the daily craziness, of things outside of my control... the ones that normally keep the stress at bay.

Maybe I put too much pressure on them. Maybe I'm not putting enough...

Okay, I'm going to leave you there, because this post is already long enough as it is, and I know there are many more to go through... but pop back here on Friday when we'll explore various ways I've found helpful for dealing with this.

Thanks for listening--er--reading guys, and thank you to Alex, for being the driving force behind this wonderful idea!

Please do share, have you ever experienced this? Have you found yourself stuck lately?

Halloweeny Shaped Clam Chowder Made By Simon Cowell

2011-10-03T04:00:00.005-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Goodness, we're already in October! It's crazy how quickly this year is moving.

I was originally going to talk about cluttered spaces and ideas being trapped today, but I've recently signed up for Alex J. Cavanaugh's Insecure Writer's Support Group (first Wednesday of every month), and I think I'll save this topic for then. You guys should definitely head over and check it out if you haven't already (and if you haven't heard of Alex or visited his blog, please rectify this immediately, because he is just awesome!).

Hmmm, so now that my topic for today is gone, I think I'm going to share a few bits of Monday randomosity with you... since it's been a while ;)

1. I've recently started watching The X Factor (US version). I don't know what it is with me and Simon Cowell--he just cracks me up.

2. I'm itching to finish my edits today, but I think I've just discovered a major flaw that will require a significant rewrite.

3. I seriously want to go to Disney World (again), and have the clam chowder at Magic Kingdom.

4. I'm feeling very Halloweeny (yup, it's all about making up the words today)... I want to watch scary movies and make cookies shaped like witches and ghosts. Must be the weather.

5. There is a spider web outside my window in which a gazillion little midges are caught (May and September are their seasons). It's disturbing. I was going to include pictures, but after careful consideration, decided against it.

How about you guys? Any bits of random to share on this lovely Monday? Anyone else feeling Halloweeny? Should we plan a trip to Disney World? Who's in?

Getting In The Mood

2011-09-30T04:00:00.006-04:00

Hmmm... I hope your mind isn't in the gutter right now ;).

No, I'm talking about getting in the mood to write.

I know some people have their own special routines... making tea, putting the kids to bed, watching a few episodes of their favorite shows... others just hop onto their computer or flip open their notebooks and let the words flow.

I don't have a special routine--I just try to write any spare moment I can find.

And while there is absolutely nothing specific that I do, sometimes when I'm stuck, it helps to clear the area around me. Paper somehow manages to pile up in skyscraper-like stacks in choice spots along my desk. Goodness knows where it comes from.

An uncluttered work area usually steers me back on track when I find myself not in the mood sometimes. Clearing the clutter clears my mind so to speak, and reveals the window when the ideas get trapped (we'll delve more into this on Monday).

It may be purely psychological, but I think it helps. Sometimes we all need a little nudge, a little motivation. Even when it comes to things we love.

Even if the nudge is served warm with a nice helping of procrastination on the side ;).

What sorts of things do you to get into the mood to write? Do you need to do anything at all? Do you follow a specific routine? Do you find having a routine helpful?

Have a good weekend everyone!

The Social Network

2011-09-28T18:30:00.003-04:00

Or maybe I should say networks.

They exist in all forms, shapes and sizes...each promising to be bigger and better than the next, the solution to every communication and connection dilemma you could ever dream up.

Blogger, Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, Google+.

And to date, how many have I joined?

Exactly ONE. And this is it.

To all of you who have an account on each of the above (and others), AND manage to keep them up to date, I have such total and complete respect for you. You guys are super ninjas. I know how hard it is. I struggle with just the one!

But I do plan on joining Twitter soon, and possibly Google+ because it just looks so darn cool.

And of course, as writers (or any other artist or business person), they help us to build our platforms, which is what we're supposed to be doing from the get-go. Meeting the right people, growing an audience, spreading the word, promoting what we do...

But in truth... they do connect people...the ones travelling the same path, the ones searching for answers or support, the ones who just want to share. They do bring us closer together. They do offer new means of communication. And they do allow us in to keep in touch in an age and world where lives can get too hectic to have a nice long chat over the backyard fence to find out how "so and so" is doing today.

How many of these social platforms have you joined? Did I miss any crucial ones? And how do you manage it all!?

Can You Smell That?

2011-09-21T03:00:00.004-04:00

Smell is one of the strongest senses tied to memory. Nothing transports you faster to days long ago than a whiff of a long forgotten aroma from your past.

The smell of a new car. The wet pavement after a summer rain. Fresh bread baking in the oven. A field full of clovers. The first snowfall of Winter.

For me, it's the smell of a book, and the places where they come from. There's just something about the smell of a library or a bookstore. Whether it be the musty aroma of hundreds of novels that have passed through thousands of hands over the years, or the crisp scent of pristine tomes just hitting the shelves, it's the unique smell that you can only get from hundreds of books situated in one room.

It's like... magic.

I remember when I was younger, I used to make my dad come and sit with me in the library while I sorted through and eventually picked about 15 - 20 books to take home for those three glorious weeks. When I hit my teens, I used to make my parents drop me off at the giant bookstore about fifteen minutes away from my house while they did groceries.

And regardless of where I was, when I was amongst those books, time just disappeared.

When I hear that in the future bookstores and libraries will cease to exist, it just about breaks my heart. I know in this day and age, it's much easier to order your books online or have them directly downloaded to your e-reader, but nothing, absolutely nothing, beats walking into one of those sanctuaries and re-escaping to your childhood.

To this day, every time I hold a book in my hands, I can't resist taking a quick sniff of those pages...

What are your favorites scents? Which ones transport you back to your childhood? Do you have a strange obsession with the smell of books too?

The Road Less Traveled

2011-09-19T03:00:00.001-04:00

I have two day planners. One was given to me, and the other I bought. I love them both, and herein lay my dilemma. I wanted to use them both. Both have great features unique to each - the dates even extend to the end of 2012.

I spent a good couple hours of this weekend ripping both planners apart and shuffling things around (and this was no easy feat, mind you--the pages are completely different with the holes in varying places). I then put the whole thing back together to my liking.

The result?

The PERFECT planner. MY perfect planner.

Sure, it would have been easier to just go with one, and suck it up, or even just buy a new one. But I'm very particular - I know what I want - and I found it in both.

And it got me thinking. This is the same approach we take with our writing.

We hear it time and time again: the easy way isn't always the best way. By taking the easy way, you may end up cheating yourself out of what you deserve.

You deserve the best. But it will be hard work. You may have to rip those pages out and put them back together time and time again. Then do it all over from the beginning. Until you have the perfect work of art. YOUR perfect work of art.

Yes, it will take longer, but it will be worth it. It's always worth it in the end.

And just remember, you should never, ever have to settle. Reach high and reach far. Use what you've got and turn it into gold. And never give up.

So tell me, how many times have you reconstructed your MS until it was perfect to you? Did you ever take the difficult road with something when the easy road was right in front of you?

"Hogwarts Will Always Be There To Welcome You Home"

2011-09-16T03:00:00.004-04:00

Those of you who have been with me for a while know that I was late to the Harry Potter game.

So to recap...

While I'd watched the movies over the years, I only got around to reading the books last summer. I even had it in my head that the movies must be better than the books because they were THAT good.. How could anything top them?

For the other three people who don't know, I was wrong my friends... If you think the movies are good, the books are a trillion times better. I read all 7 books over the course of two months.

I couldn't put them down. I just COULD NOT PUT THEM DOWN.

I read every spare second I got. I summoned every last ounce of will power that I had to not sneak peeks at them during work hours. My day was spent thinking about when next I'd be able to re-escape back into the world of Hogwarts.

But this is the feeling you get from reading an incredible book with an equally incredible story. And while you will almost never find me without a book in my hands, it had been a long time since a story moved me that way.

I only saw the final movie four weeks ago, on the very last day it was playing. Because I just didn't want it to end.

But in truth, it never really ends, does it?

The stories that touch your heart stay with you forever. They become a part of you, and like the best kept of promises, re-enter your life from time to time... to bring a smile to your face... to remind you.

What books have you read recently (or in the past) that had a profound impact on you? Which ones did you have a hard time putting down?

Finding Your Passion

2011-09-14T18:26:00.011-04:00

If someone had told me ten years ago that I'd be trying to make a career out of writing, I would have risen one very disbelieving eyebrow.

I mean... I love to write. But come on, a writer?

Everyone knows there's no money to be made in writing. Writing is something you do in your spare time (on the premise that you actually have any). A silly side hobby for the dabblers.

It's just for FUN.

I mean... isn't that what they always say?

And how can you possibly write a whole novel? Isn't that, like, 400 pages?

My life has taken a lot of unexpected twists, yet through all the ups and downs, the one thing that remained constant was writing.

Without even realizing it, it became my truth. It resurfaced as my drive. It thrived as my passion. The more I wrote, the more I wanted it. The more I STILL want it.

And you know what?

I finished that novel. I wrote the 400 pages. I found the time. Because when it's something you truly love--you always find the time. Even when the only opportunity appears at 2:00 a.m. after a sixteen hour work day, and you've finally gotten the baby to fall asleep.

Because passion like that comes from deep within. It's what keeps you moving forward, moving towards your dreams. It's what makes you dedicated. And as long as you hold on to it, anything is possible.

Is there money to be made in writing? I don't know. It isn't the most clear cut profession.

Is it rewarding? Being able to touch someone with your story? The feeling you get watching the words fill the page?

Definitely.

And I guess that's what makes it all worth it, isn't it?

And just for the record, we shouldn't always listen to what "they" say. ;)

So tell me, what made you realize you wanted to be a writer? When do you find time to write?

WiP Update

2011-09-12T04:00:00.002-04:00

Wow. I can't believe how much time has passed. We're almost at the end of another year.

As you know, summer just sort of took over my life during the last little while. Between work, writing, numerous family get together's, writing, work, writing, work... did I mention writing and work--blogging fell to the wayside.

I've been visiting over the last week, and quite a few people have taken temporary hiatuses as well.

But alas, September is here, and it's time to get back into the grind.

So. To get things started, I wanted to give you a quick WiP update.

Where things stand now:

I'm just about at the end of a major revision/rewrite which I hope to fully complete by the end of this week. After that, I will be doing another minor revision round of things I've highlighted, and then print the whole baby out for final edits.

What about you guys? How are things going with your WiP's? What has everyone been up to? Any interesting summer stories?

Still Alive and Rach's Third Writers' Platform Building Campaign

2011-08-31T10:28:00.008-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Just wanted to let you know that I am still alive and plan to be back to regular posting within the next couple of weeks. I apologize for my absence - I was bitten by SUMMER and all that comes with it - you know what I mean.

I hope you are all doing well--I miss you guys and can't wait to catch up! :)

I've been truly missing blogging and visiting you guys. I feel very disconnected and out of sorts. But everyone knows the best way to get out of this type of slump is to not only reconnect with old friends, but make some new ones.

And honestly, there's no better way to do this than Rachael Harrie's awesome Platform Building Campaign. For those of you who don't know Rach or haven't heard of her Campaigns, you need to click on the link below and zoom on over there because she is absolutely amazing.

I just signed up and as today is the last day to join, I wanted to let all of you know so you can as well.

For more details, click on the following link:

Third writers' platform building campaign

It's going to be great!

Alrighty everyone - I'll be back in about a week. "See" you soon!

You Know You've Got It Bad When...

2011-06-06T01:00:00.002-04:00

...you choose not to watch the American Idol finale, even though you've lamented for 3 three years about missing it because you were on vacation.

...you forgo reserving tickets for the musical that was just extended, even though just three months ago, you were upset that you waited that long in the first place and lost the opportunity.

...you nearly miss your cousin's wedding (this one needs no further explanation, it's just plain bad).

...your friends start to wonder if you don't like them anymore because they haven't seen you in months.

But you're writing. Writing. Maybe you're in the thick of revisions, and you've almost gotten that scene just the way it's supposed to be. Perhaps you're so close, you can almost taste it...

Yes, my friends, this is the stage I'm at right about now.

It's all I think about. I don't want to do anything else. It's like I'm possessed. At work, I have to force myself to stop dreaming about this book, and the next chapter I get to rewrite, that last little bit of detail I left out, the amazing, better ending...

Sure, it's great... it's wonderful to feel this passionately about something again. It's been a while since I felt that zest (another story for another day), but at the same time, it's pretty amazing and strange how it can change your life. How both things that used to seem so important, and things that are still very important start to mesh... and the only time you feel any clarity is when you're working on this darn MS.

But I didn't miss my cousin's wedding, and I am going to call my friends back. I know my priorities, but it does seem like this book is determined to remain in the spotlight.

Do you guys ever experience this? Do you ever give anything up in order to write? Have you noticed that your priorities have changed since you started writing?

Dream the Day Away

2011-05-20T01:00:00.001-04:00

"Those who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night" - Edgar Allan Poe

We're all dreamers... I doubt any of us would be in this business if we weren't. Dreams fuel our ideas, provide energy for our imaginations, and lay the foundation for our creativity.

Some of our most memorable dreams happen while we sleep... those dreams create their own stories... we're just lucky enough to witness them. But the dreams that take place during the day, while we're awake and fully conscious, are the ones that we control.

I find some of my best ideas occur on the train ride to work. Usually I'm reading, but some days, I do nothing but stare out the window and watch the sun glitter across the lake until the train curves around the bend... and the scene changes to trees and houses whizzing by like meteorites... but amidst the gentle rocking and hum of conversation and newspaper pages turning, it happens.

The ideas start to flow.

It's hard to give into your daydreams when you're supposed to be concentrating on your day job, or feeding the baby, or mowing the lawn, or figuring out how you're going to make your next mortgage payment, but in those quiet moments.. the ones that are yours and yours alone, that's when you can let your imagination run wild... and before you know it, that jungle finds its way onto the pages.

Just this past week I was struggling with a chapter that needed to be changed. It wasn't one I could just delete; it needed a whole new direction. And on Wednesday morning, as the rain pelted against the grimy window, the sun nowhere to be seen, it came to me. And not only that, but it just might be a very important factor in the rest of the series.

So let your dreams run rampant, day or night... let them get a firm hold on you and lift you to the sky... you don't need a train ride, but it sure helps ;)

Are you a daydreamer? A night dreamer? When do your ideas flow the most freely? Anybody have to take the train everyday?

Looking Back

2011-05-18T01:00:00.003-04:00

Do you ever look back at your old blog posts?

I somehow ended up browsing through mine today while trying to determine my next post, and it hit me that I've been blogging since July 2009. Almost two years...

This was my very first post.

And I realized, while not much has really changed since then, everything has changed.

Things are still the same in some ways, but unrecognizable in others.

I've actually written a whole novel since that rainy summer. All I had back then was a dream churning in my heart and a couple of pages tap dancing on my computer. I didn't know where they might lead--I still don't--all I knew was that for the first time in a long time, I was finally looking at something that felt real, that made me feel real again, if that makes sense. I was holding my life in bits and pieces in both hands, trying to salvage what I could still carry, to not let anything else slip through my fingers.

I've been rebuilding since then, and looking back over these posts, I can see just how far I've come.

I'd like to think I've matured, grown, and learned, and hopefully will continue do so, because there is still so much more to go. We never really stop, do we?

And my sister is still the only person who knows what my secret passion is, just how much it means to me, why I keep at it day after day, night after night, why as soon as one work day ends, another begins, why I can't stop...

But you know what?

Now you guys know too. You guys share it. You guys live it. We've all come such a far way... and this is just the beginning.

So tell me, do you ever re-read your old posts? What have you learned about yourself? When did you first start blogging?

How the Godfather Helped Me With Revisions

2011-05-16T01:00:00.002-04:00

So, it's been a crazy couple of months. I've been molding and shaping this book to my satisfaction, then going back, and doing it all over again.

I'm still not finished. I'm really beginning to wonder if I'll ever be.

So far, I'm likening revisions to two things:

1. Pulling teeth with no Novocaine

This is painful, the realization of what the heck have I gotten myself into, why did I agree to this, how can I get out of it? There is no way I can get through this alive.

2. The Godfather - Part 2 (yes, I'm totally stealing this from the movie Serendipity)

Part 1 (the first draft) gave me something to work with, Part 2 gave me something to appreciate. Not only do I now understand how it all began, but I'm starting to see where it's going. I couldn't have gotten here without Part 1 though. The first draft that started it all...

I guess it's true though... you usually can't get to the good parts without going through some pain, right?

But for the most part, I'm actually really liking revisions. It's hard work, but it's like breathing life into my monster. And it's a beautiful thing.

I'm not going to lie. There have been times in these past few weeks when I've literally just stopped myself from pulling my hair out. I've wondered exactly where I came up with that line... what the heck was I thinking when I added in that phrase... I've lamented over how I was going to fix this train-wreck of a manuscript...

I've wanted to shelve it and start anew. It would be much easier.

But easier doesn't mean better... it's just means easier. It's just putting off the inevitable.

So the moral of today's story?

See it through. Regardless of how bad you think it might be, how far you want to throw it into the next century, don't.

I mean, once you start something, you've got to finish it right? How else are we going to get to the finale? And it might just be one you don't want to miss.

How about you guys? Which side of the fence are you on when it comes to revisions? Do you love them or hate them? Have you seen The Godfather trilogy?

p.s. And for the record... I actually have seen all three Godfather movies ;)

I'mmmmm Baacccck!

2011-05-09T01:00:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone!

I'm back... erm... yes... it's...uh... been a WHILE.

I'm so sorry for just disappearing like that... I actually didn't mean to, but edits, work, edits, work... did I mention edits--sort of just took over and monopolized all my time. I'll spare you the details for now--I'm still not quite finished with revisions as yet, but I decided it was time for me to come out of the cave... it was getting lonely in there :)

I'll have updates on my progress for you this week though.

I've been trying to make my rounds this past week, so if I haven't come by as yet, I will be there soon!

I've missed you guys :)

I hope everyone is doing well, and I can't wait to catch up.

So tell me...how are you guys? What's new and exciting... not new or exciting... anything... what's been going on???

For the First Time

2011-03-02T01:00:00.002-05:00

I write Young Adult Fantasy.

In the past, I've dabbled with general YA, Paranormal YA, Romantic Suspense YA...

...you get the picture, right?

From as far back as I can remember, it's always been some form of YA (unless you count my baby chicken story in first grade).

I love it. I love the ideas, the emotions, the angst, the glances of longing, but above all, I love that it's mostly about the proverbial "firsts".

First date, first boyfriend/girlfriend, first kiss, first love, first heartbreak (and in many cases, all the while battling the bad guys--or becoming one of them, having adventures, learning, experiencing and discovering). Teenagers are on the brink of figuring out who they are, and while they may not know for years to come--I know adults still searching--they're at that stage where they're willing to take the risk.

Everything is so new and wonderful and scary and exciting... we lose a lot of that wonder as we grow older. We forget that ability to view things like we're seeing them for the first time. Like we're feeling them for the first time. And teens feel everything about a hundred times stronger than adults.

It's that time when you're still young enough to believe in the impossible, but old enough to discern the unfathomable. It's when you question everything, but you're still able to "think" with your heart, even though you know how to use your mind to guide you.

Teens really do see the world differently, and I'm not sure if I ever moved past that phase. I still see the world quite differently from most people, although I'm sure many writers/dreamers do.

There are days when I'm so tired, it all just seems to blend together, and sometimes I don't know whether I'm coming or going... but when I get home and finally make it to my computer and open up that MS... none of it matters anymore. Somehow it all disappears as I lose myself in the story.

Because just like that, it's all new again. Like the first time.

This is why I write YA.

What genre do you write? Why does it appeal to you?

Why The Oscars Gave Me Writing Nightmares

2011-02-28T01:00:00.003-05:00

I watched the Oscars for a bit with my sister last night, and right before they started, they panned out to show a view of the audience taking their seats in the enormous Kodak Theater.

I looked at my sister and shuddered. "That's a lot of people."

"Imagine you had to present an award there," she said. "Imagine they called you up to present the award for the movie based on your book."

I rolled my eyes, but I couldn't help feeling flattered to know she believes in me that much. Hey... when we dream, we dream big ;)

It got me thinking though.

Although I've had to do them all through school, and even still at work for meetings, I absolutely, completely and totally HATE presentations. Because they always involved public speaking.

I abhor being the center of attention... I am by no means extroverted in any sense, and I've always shied away from the spotlight. Unless I'm very comfortable with people, all eyes turned to me usually means sweat city accompanied by a woozy stomach on the side.

The thing is, if you want to be a successful writer and dream BIG... chances are--someone, some day is going to ask you to speak at something, somewhere.

Then what? Can you say no? Is that bad?

They say practice makes perfect, and the more you work at something, the better you get at it. I think I may be an anomaly when it comes to this rule. Maybe it skipped a generation...

I've actually tried to take a course that would help with this, and ended up dropping it at the last minute because I couldn't go through with it.

I guess we'll just have to wait and see... this could all be fruitless worrying ;)

What about you? Are you an extrovert or an introvert? Do you like being in the spotlight? Do you think it will have an impact on your writing career?

Crusader Welcome and Chocolate

2011-02-21T12:48:00.004-05:00

First of all, I would like to say hello and WELCOME to all of the Crusaders and new followers! :)

*Waves HI!*

I spent most of yesterday catching up on my blog list, and following everyone back... if I haven't made it to you as yet, I promise I will soon. I want to make sure I get to everyone, so it will be a short post today.

It's been awesome checking out everyone's blogs and meeting lots of fantastic people. I love how this platform allows us the opportunity to do this. Thank you all for not only showing the love, but for also spreading it around.

For anyone who is not participating in this year's Writer's Platform-Building Crusade, hop on over to Rach's page to check out some fabulous blogs when you have a chance.

On a side note, I have a serious craving for chocolate chip cookies, double chocolate chip cookies, and banana chocolate chip muffins (do you see a trend there?)... hmmmm... yeeeah... since I'm home today, I think I'm going to be spending some quality time in the kitchen too ;)

How was everyone's weekend? Did you do anything new and interesting? Not new? Please share!

Your Cheatin' Heart

2011-02-15T10:27:00.002-05:00

You know... we're in love... my MS and I.

We really do like each other despite the differences. We've been together for so long... through all the ups and downs. And although things have been crazy lately, we are trying to sort through our problems.

But these last few weeks have truly been a test to our relationship. Nothing seems to be going right... I'm finding issues that never existed, things I overlooked in the past because I was blinded by the love...

And... the thing is... there's someone else...

...Someone who's been lurking in the background, just waiting for their chance with me. Someone who's been filling my head with all sorts of ideas, and fancy notions, and exciting twists... trying to monopolize my time and pull me away from the one who needs me the most right now...

Sigh. Book 2... I want to... I really do, but edits on Book 1 HAVE to come first. All of our plans will have to wait. I promise, you'll have my full attention soon. Maybe when Book 1 and I are on another little break ;)

I may be weak, but I do have priorities.

How do you ignore the pull to work on something else while you're in the middle of edits/revisions? DO you ignore the pull?

Hope everyone had a FANTASTIC Valentine's Day :)

(sorry this post is late - it should have gone up yesterday, but Blogger hates me)

To Print or Not To Print

2011-02-11T01:00:00.007-05:00

I ordered a new printer two days ago.

It arrived today.

And I am OVER THE MOON.

No... seriously.

I LOVE this thing.

It's a LASER printer!! I spent the last hour setting it up.

Nothing extravagant (it was dirt cheap), and it can't do more than print black and white, but it's SO fast for such a tiny little thing, and will have 400 pages sitting in front of me in no time at all AND I'll still have ink leftover! Which is more than I can say for my four year old Inkjet :)

I've been debating about this for over a year now. I really wasn't sure, but I eventually decided that at some point I would need to print out my MS for final editing and revisions (to send to agents?! Obviously that's quite a ways off)... I've done about 4 rounds of minor editing on the computer - finishing up the 5th round now-- but my old printer just wouldn't make the cut.

I can't wait to hold these pages in my hands! It somehow makes everything feel more real (or is that just me being overly excited again?). I actually want to take my pen and physically mark up those lines... see those scratches and side notes in my own handwriting.

Yeah, I need to get out more ;)

What's your take on this? Do you print out your MS for revisions or do you complete all your edits on the computer?

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

UPDATED: Join Rachael Harrie's Second Writers' Platform-Building Crusade! It's a great way to not only build your platform, but to connect with wonderful people on the same journey as you :) Click on over to get details and sign up!

Moments That Take Your Breath Away

2011-02-07T23:00:00.003-05:00

Winter and I are not friends. Maybe a long time ago we were, but not anymore. Things have changed.

In fact, as I've gotten older, our relationship has pretty much dwindled to nothing.

You might even say we're borderline enemies.

I detest everything about it: the bone chilling gusts of wind, the slush that splashes all over the back of my pants no matter HOW carefully I try to walk, the obese, wet flakes that always manage to land directly in my eyes (don't ask), the fact that not only do I feel like the abominable snowman in my winter jacket, but I can't MOVE because it's so darn COLD... the list could go on forever...

Despite ALL of this though--every single winter, without fail--when the sky breaks open and releases those first few flurries of the season, I always stop in wonder and just watch.

And I remember.

Remember the good times. The happiness. The breathless anticipation of actually waiting for that blizzard to show up... I mean, come on... how can you possibly go sledding without snow? What else is there to live for when you're six?

But it's all it takes to remind me. AND inspire me. Because on that freezing, snowy day, I wrote like there was no tomorrow.

There's beauty in everything, especially the things we've long forgotten, but we're usually too busy to stop and notice. Our lives are so hectic, our days are filled with work and chores and responsibilities... but don't forget those moments that take your breath away.

What has taken your breath away lately? Have you been inspired by something unexpected? Show of hands--who has snow and hates it? Loves it?

(photo credit)

If I Didn't Write

2011-02-04T01:00:00.005-05:00

Those of you who have been with me for a while now know that I'm no fan of my day job. By no means is it what I ever aspired to do in life. It's stifling, boring and extremely stressful, but let's not get into that today.

I know one good thing that came out of it though: it led me back to writing.

I never thought of writing in any other fashion except that it was my outlet, something of a second nature that I not only used to express myself, but also something I truly enjoyed.

I've always written... for as long as I can remember, but only in the last two years did I start thinking that maybe I wanted it to be a career instead of just a hobby. This was what I wanted to be when I "grew up".

A writer.

They always say you'll enjoy your job if you truly love what you do. And I truly love to write. And I wish more than anything that it could be my "day" job.

But you can love more than one thing. And this is what got me thinking.

Since I'm not cut out for my actual day job, what would I be if I couldn't make a living from writing? It's good to have more than one dream, even while you're still reaching for the one you want the most.

I must confess - I have lots of dreams. I'll share one with you today.

If I couldn't be a writer, I think I'd like to be a chef or a baker... something to do with food. That would probably be my second choice. I like to experiment and create things from scratch... and thank goodness most of them have been edible... so far.

I wouldn't give up writing though... I think I'll always have that, even in the background... just because I don't think I can live without it.

And, of course, now I'm curious about you ;)

What's your back up plan? What else do you love to do? What did you want to be when you grew up?

Becoming Reacquainted

2011-01-31T19:54:00.002-05:00

I opened my MS for the first time in 4 weeks yesterday. I know 4 weeks isn't that much time, but it felt like YEARS to me.

I was so scared and ridiculously nervous, unsure of what to expect.

It was weird, comforting, awkward and familiar all at once, if that makes sense.

Kind of like meeting up with your best friend after years of not talking. Knowing what's there (or what used to be there) at the core, but not sure in what other ways you may have changed.

Would we still like each other?

Would things be the same as before?

What needs to change NOW in order for us to get along?

My biggest fear though? Not liking it anymore. Because that's always my biggest fear. I don't want it to all be for nothing.

I was worried I would open it, read the first couple of pages, and wonder what the heck I was thinking. I only got about six pages in, and I am still undecided because my nerves haven't quite settled as yet.

I guess the thing is--just like with great friends--you don't let go that easily. You put in the extra effort to make it work. You hang on for dear life and try to make it better, even when it attempts to slip away.

Ultimately... YOU DON'T GIVE UP... even when it seems too hard. Even when it seems like it can't be fixed, make sure you put up a good fight - especially when it's to save something you believe in.

Because you know what? It's never all for nothing. You always learn. You always take away.

And you keep moving forward.

Have you guys ever felt this way after coming back to your MS after a long time? What did you do?

I DID IT

2011-01-24T18:21:00.008-05:00

Happy Monday everyone! :)

I spent this entire past weekend working on the first draft of my query. And I do mean the entire weekend. I actually finished it, and fully rewrote it 9 times.

I'm definitely going to re-write it at least 20 more times before it's ready. And the thing is... this is just ONE page... what am I going to do at the end of this week when I reopen my MS and discover I need to edit and rewrite 368 pages???

You know... it's a nerve wracking thought, but regardless, I'm still looking forward to it.

Because it's moving me closer to one of my major goals... not the one of being published (although that is at the top of the list).

No, it's being able to stand back, and take a good look at what I've created and say... I DID IT.

And it won't be the first time I've been able to claim those words... I've done it at each milestone along the way... to remind myself of how far I've come, and how worthwhile the journey has been.

To remind myself that THIS is why I keep going even when it seems like there's no end in sight.

Each step in this process, as scary as they may seem, they're all taking us somewhere.

No matter which one you're at, whether it's finishing your novel or your query, opening that word document and writing that first page, emailing that agent for the first or hundredth time, DECIDING you want to be writer--even though you've never even written a short story... these are significant accomplishments, and we should be proud :)

Which step of this wonderful process are you currently at? What's next? When have you recently said, "Wow... I DID IT"?

My Name is WritingNut, and I am an Addict

2011-01-19T01:00:00.002-05:00

Okay. I finally admit it.

But I know I'm not the only one.

We're all addicted to something.

I'm addicted to several things.

Writing/Reading

Everything that encompasses the Blogosphere

My computer

My blackberry

Chocolate

Sushi

I can't live without any of them--at the very least--once per week (well, the sushi and chocolate, but the other four - every single day).

You know how some addictions can be a hindrance on day to day life? Well, it's the opposite for me. These things actually keep me going. I feel like I'm lost without them.

Once I forgot my blackberry at home, got all the way to the train station, missed my train, and drove back to get it... because I knew my day would be ruined if it wasn't with me.

Yeah... okay, maybe I'm a little crazy, but hey, we all have our quirks ;)

What are your addictions?

Let the Challenge Begin!

2011-01-17T01:00:00.003-05:00

Hey Everyone!

I hope you all had a fabulous weekend :)

So Theresa inspired me a couple of weeks ago to sign up for the 2011 100+ Book Challenge. I'm not sure what I was thinking, but I clicked on over, became extremely excited, and the next thing I knew, I was a participant.

I know it's hard to find enough time to read these days, so I'm actually pretty psyched to do this. I think I read maaaaybe 30 books all of last year, so this is a huge undertaking for me, but hopefully I will be encouraged enough to succeed.

I'm a little behind so far... I've only read 2.5 books to date, but I plan to catch up soon! :)

1. Love Happens - Elizabeth Chandler

2. Matched - Ally Condie

3. The Hunger Games - Suzanne Collins (currently reading)

Next on the agenda are the following two books of the trilogy.

If anyone is interested in joining, you can sign up HERE and review the rules.

I wanted to challenge myself with something different this year, and this is it.

What about you guys? Have you signed up for this particular challenge or something similar for 2011?

The Waiting Game - Round 1

2011-01-14T01:00:00.002-05:00

So this whole week has been all about finishing the first draft of your first novel. Today I would like to talk about what you do after.

No matter HOW busy you are, regardless of the fact that you suddenly have all this wonderful free time on your hands, you will ITCH to go back to it! You will lament every moment you have to spend apart.

At least I am.

It's taking every ounce of willpower I have not to open the thing. I'm determined to give it its four weeks of "space". I know it will make our editing relationship stronger in the long run ;)

What have I been up to in the meanwhile (yeah, you know you're going to get a list :D)?

1. Blogging and visiting! I love having the time to make it around to all of you :)

2. Researching agents and reading up on the querying process

3. Drafting the query letter (and let me tell you, it's MUCH harder than it seems, even with all the wonderful resources at our fingertips)

4. And I THINK I'm going to write a little short story over the next week or so... just for fun, but we'll see

5. Reading (I've recently started The Hunger Games)

What do you do while you're playing the waiting game? How do you keep yourself busy after months of having no time?

Finishing the First Draft of Your Novel: What to Expect

2011-01-12T01:00:00.002-05:00

Okay.... I don't have children as yet, but finishing a draft of your novel (particularly the first one) is the closest I can imagine what giving birth must feel like.

Maybe I'm waaaaay off (and please feel free to correct me!), but here is why:

You carry this "child" around for months, maybe even years like me. You nurture it, feed it, wake up in the middle of the night with cravings (to write) related to it, research all about it because you need to make sure it arrives healthy and strong... And then all of a sudden, it's out and you need to care for it and raise it, and make it grow, turn it into something special that can one day stand on its own.

The range of emotions I've gone through in the past week and a half?

Here they are, IN ORDER:

1. Joy (it's done!)

2. Disbelief (it's done???)

3. Giddiness (I wrote an actual book... a WHOLE book...with chapters!)

4. Doubt (what if no one wants to read it? What if it sucks? Oh my God, it sucks!)

5. Motivation (No, I did this, I stuck with it this far... I can do ANYTHING!)

6. Stress (have you SEEN the querying process... there's NO way I can do this!)

7. Ambitious (I need to start on the sequel... like NOW)

8. Anxious (leave it alone... it has to rest... but it needs major editing! Major re-writing! No... MUST... LET...IT...REST!)

9. Sadness (what do I do now that's it's done... it's like a part of me is missing... I feel so alone...)

10. Overwhelmed (in both a good way AND bad - it IS done, now it's time to keep moving forward)

Um... yeah... so that's what my last few days have been like. One big roller coaster... can you imagine what the actual publishing process will be like (I know many of you are already there, and I'd love hear your stories)? I hope I get that far to find out!

Have you ever gone through this? With writing, finishing or starting your first drafts or anything else? Please share!

Guys... Guess What?

2011-01-10T01:00:00.005-05:00

Happy Monday everyone... I hope you all had a wonderful weekend!

Yes, today is the big reveal that I promised last Friday, although if you've spotted my sidebar, it may not be that much of a surprise... but here goes ;)

I've finished the first draft of my first novel!

Yes... two years of blood, sweat and tears, but I finally wrote the last 15k on Monday, January 3rd, 2011, after waking up in a panic after my bout with the flu during the holidays.

It's clocked in at 95,977 words, 367 pages double spaced.

Um... yeah... it's a little longer that I had originally anticipated (80k), and needs some major editing and lots of rewriting, but figuratively speaking, it's finished.

In early December, I thought I was only 4k away, but the novel needed a lot more than that to wrap it up.

And now it's sitting and marinating while I do some research. Yup, we've got a lot of stuff to talk about this week, I hope you'll join me on Wednesday and Friday.

How about you guys? Any news... writing or otherwise?

Welcoming 2011

2011-01-07T01:00:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year everyone!!

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday, and has returned restful and ready for 2011 :)

I think this is our year guys, and we're going to take it by STORM!

I have to say, I think 2010 was one of the fastest years for me. It seriously just zoomed by.

Now, I love to make resolutions. I don't know why, because I never stick to them (except for one that I made last year -- which I won't tell you about until next Monday -- yes, I am just evil like that :D).

Despite the fact that I forget about them by mid January, I'm still hopeful, so I'm going to make some this year as well. I will keep them very short and sweet though.

2011 Resolutions:

1. Write more + Start querying

2. Become a better blogger

3. Start going regularly to the gym (3 years in a row people)

I think these are quite manageable (especially compared to the 6 I had last year).

I don't know if you noticed a very crucial one missing... but that's what you're waiting until Monday for :D

What were some of your resolutions or NON-resolutions for 2011? What are you excited for this year?

Peeking out from the Dungeon

2010-12-29T01:00:00.001-05:00

Ah guys, I've been a horrible blogger this month I know, and I'm sorry! I promise things will be better in the New Year.

Work has been crazy and I've also managed to catch the worse flu I've had in ages during the last 4 days. Yup... guess how I spent Christmas Day ;)

I'm a little dizzy now even as I write this (please excuse any typos), but I've missed my computer! And I've missed you guys!

I have lots of updates to share, but they will have to wait... until the New Year, when I will return bright and shiny and fresh :D.

I hope everyone is doing well, and enjoying the holidays, as well as a little down time. I'll be around in the next couple of days to visit you all.

See you soon, and Happy Holidays!

What's YOUR Story?

2010-12-06T04:00:00.001-05:00

So today I wanted to share a little bit more of my journey to date with you, and briefly touch upon the ever present self-doubt.

Everyone is different. And although we share this common goal of writing, being published, and we go through a lot of similar situations, the experience is unique to each one of us.

I've been trying to write this novel for about 2 years now... yes, 2 years. You have no idea how much my outlook on things have changed since I started, and it's all for the better.

I honestly used to think I'd write the book in one month, send it out the next, and it would be published by the end of the year... yeah.. DOH... what rock was I living under, right?

I think there are a very, very lucky few of us who actually have a fairytale story of being being able to begin and end our journey in a matter of months because it just all worked out. And kudos to them :)

I started writing my novel back in November of 2008. Then I stopped. Scrapped it. Then started again in February of 2009, then scrapped it too and well... you get the picture.

The first time round I wrote 65k and it took me almost a year of blood and sweat, and then I scrapped it yet again.

Because I worried. And I kept doubting myself. I kept wondering if I was good enough. I'd read books and stories that seemed too similar to mine, and end up in full panic mode because I really loved my story and didn't want to have to change it.

The thing is... all this worry... all this self doubt, was just holding me back. And to be completely honest with you, I still have all these fears. I always will. I am human after all :)

The only thing that's changing (hasn't changed completely yet) is my attitude towards it all. And the fact that I'm allowing myself to move forward regardless.

Right now, I'm still writing that same story--it's changed quite a bit along the way, but it won't let me go.

So what if there's a story like yours?

So what if there are books out there better than yours?

There will always stories similar to yours and there will always be books out there better than yours... that doesn't mean you shouldn't try. It just means you should try harder, believe in yourself, and don't give up.

And remember, only you can write like you... regardless of what the story is.

So give that doubt a run for his money.

You've got it in you. It's your turn to shine :)

What do you guys do when you feel like doubt is threatening to take over? What's your journey been like so far? I'd love to hear your story :)

The Verdict's In.. Which side do you choose?

2010-12-03T01:00:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe we're in December already, isn't it? Where did the year go?

Thank you all for your comments regarding my NaNo inquiry a couple of weeks ago :).

I've decided that I won't officially post it on the site, even though I think it counts halfway (50k in 30 days, right?). But just to adhere to the rules and the spirit of NaNo, I'll just keep it here between us ;)

The fact of the matter is that I know I did it, and what's more, now I know I can do it.

I think that's what the driving factor was from the very start... overcoming that self-doubt and pushing myself to see if I could.

Because I didn't believe I could.

There's just too much going on in my life, it's almost impossible to balance and it's just so... hard. But I think this was just my excuse... something to make me feel better about tottering on the edge of the fence, afraid to see what might be on the other side.

I'm going to delve a bit more into the power of doubt and its inhibiting role on Monday, but today I wanted talk about pushing yourself to do things you never thought were possible.

50k... heck, even 20k is no small feat. It's a lot of work, and it takes a lot of commitment, perseverance and time--which is something we never seem to have enough of. And it's always more or less depending on what stage of life you're in.

But you can do it.

You just have to believe in yourself that much, and know that even if you don't get to it today, you will get to it. Just don't give up.

Because this is your dream. And you want it that badly.

We can't always follow our schedules... life, kids, families, work... don't always allow for things to be cookie cutter perfect, but that's okay. Don't beat yourself up over the small things. They'll always be there - we just have to learn to accept them.

My goal for this weekend is to finish the novel. I haven't touched it for two weeks. I'm about 4k away, but I know it will take a bit more than that to tie up the loose ends, but I am going to do it.

Because now I know I can.

And I hope you know you can too. At the end of the day, you can't stay on the fence forever--you need to pick a side, and the positive side is a heck of a lot nicer than the one filled with doubt.

And of course you know it's sharing time :)

Have you ever felt this way about your writing, or anything else? Did you ever accomplish something that you thought wasn't possible? How did you feel?

I hope you all have a wonderful, inspiring, and hopeful weekend!

Hurry... You Don't Want to Miss This!!

2010-12-01T03:00:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I have a very special announcement for you all today!

Fabulous blogger and author Talli Roland's debut novel, The Hating Game is being released today as an e-book on Amazon!

And you don't even need a Kindle to read it! You can just download the software, and off you go :D

See below for more information regarding The Hating Game, and Talli's amazing undertaking!

Help Talli Roland's debut novel THE HATING GAME hit the Kindle bestseller list at Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk by spreading the word today. Even a few sales in a short period of time on Amazon helps push the book up the rankings, making it more visible to other readers.

Where you can find it:

Amazon.co.uk
Amazon.com

No Kindle? Download a free app at Amazon for Mac, iPhone, PC, Android and more. Coming soon in paperback. Keep up with the latest at www.talliroland.com.

About THE HATING GAME:

When man-eater Mattie Johns agrees to star on a dating game show to save her ailing recruitment business, she's confident she'll sail through to the end without letting down the perma-guard she's perfected from years of her love 'em and leave 'em dating strategy. After all, what can go wrong with dating a few losers and hanging out long enough to pick up a juicy £200,000 prize? Plenty, Mattie discovers, when it's revealed that the contestants are four of her very unhappy exes. Can Mattie confront her past to get the prize money she so desperately needs, or will her exes finally wreak their long-awaited revenge? And what about the ambitious TV producer whose career depends on stopping her from making it to the end?

Okay, are you not excited for this? I know I am! Alright, stop wasting time here, and GO! :D

p.s. I apologize for my long absence - I'll be back to regular posting on Friday!

NaNo Update and A Very Serious Question

2010-11-15T01:00:00.000-05:00

Err.. okay... guys, I THINK I've completed NaNo, but I don't think I played by the rules *hangs head in shame*

For starters, I guess I need to say I kind of began NaNo way earlier - as in on October 18th.

But I had to!

I was too scared that if I waited until November 1st, I would lose the drive to write, and if you caught my last post, you know the crazy spot I've been in.

From October 18th to November 14th... I've managed to write 50, 239 words.

I know the aim of the game is to write the novel during the 30 days of November, BUT since it's also to write 50k in 30 days.....

My question to you IS:

Since it still falls within 30 days, and 30 days is 30 days, does it count?

Please, please say it does! I hope it does, because my head is just swimming right now, and I'm still not ready to slow down.

It's honestly a crazy, hectic, fun, insane, TIRING place to be!

I hope everyone else is doing extremely well with their NaNo projects. If you have time, let me know!

Writing Frenzy

2010-11-08T22:34:00.005-05:00

I'm exhausted. And for some reason I really want to watch Dancing with the Stars, even though I told myself I don't like that show... but it's really growing on me! Just like American Idol did.

Le sigh.

But I can't.

Because I need to write. I NEED to.

If I'm not writing, I'm thinking about writing, I'm thinking about my characters, I'm thinking about the plot.

Even right now... I'm taking a very short break before I get right back into it.

But I need to sleep too.

I don't know why I feel completely consumed by this story right now.

It's good though, right? I think it's good... I hope it's good.

I've been writing almost nonstop since October 18th (with the exception of a few glitches in between) - I wrote the date down because it's been like a fire spreading within me. It ignited and hasn't stopped raging.

I have exactly 16, 794 words left to finish my WiP. It may be less by the time you read this, because as soon as I post this, I'm going back to it.

Maybe that's why I'm feeling this burning need to not stop.

Whatever it is, I'm riding it out, and hoping for the best :)

Have you ever been bit by this bug? You know the one that glues you to your computer... makes your hands move of their own accord across the keyboard?

Music to my Eyes

2010-11-05T05:00:00.001-04:00

So... a strange phenomenon has been happening to me lately.

We've previously discussed whether or not we listen to music while we write, and I am one of those writers that needs complete silence (or rain) to concentrate, so I very rarely have any music or outside distractions going on.

Lately, while I've been in the car driving with the radio on, or walking by a store where they have songs playing, I've been getting these strange... visions.

Yes... visions.

Before you stop reading, allow me to explain ;)

They're random songs that have nothing to do with my book, yet I'm seeing my characters in a multitude of scenes in correlation with the songs.

Some examples?

"Mine" by Taylor Swift

"The Hardest Thing" by 98 Degrees (remember them?)

"Just a Dream" by Nelly

And the scenes have nothing to do with the songs, yet it's actual stuff that COULD happen in my book. Quite a bit of it has gone into my pages already.

It's not with every song I hear... it's quite literally at random. It's like a little switch clicks on in my brain.

Is that weird? Does this ever happen to you?

Hope everyone has a terrific weekend filled with lots of writing... and other fun things!

Woes for Wednesday

2010-11-03T19:28:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone!

I have returned (in case you didn't know I was gone ;) ). I apologize for my absence sans explanation, but I have had the craziest week, and all involving my computer (which despite the trouble it has given me since last Friday, I refuse to speak ill of).

So, let's backtrack a tiny bit.

To make a very, VERY long story short, basically, my computer broke down last Friday, and I mean, it completely died.

This is why I haven't been able to get on to post or visit any of you.

I'm sorry! I've been like a fish out of water these past few days. You never realize how much you depend on something until you're FORCED to live without it!

It was absolutely horrible! And even though I KNOW to back my work up (I had another near mishap in the summer), I hadn't saved my MS since Monday. Now there was only a 10 page difference, so I wasn't too anxious, but still, I had no computer!

And this is what made me very nervous.

So my friend, who is a computer genius, instructed me on everything that could have gone wrong, and I ended up spending a ton of cash I didn't have to get parts (it may have been cheaper to just buy a new computer) He then took apart my entire computer, installed, and reinstalled, swapped hardware.... you name it, he did it.

And the thing STILL didn't work!

In the end, he told me to just take it into a professional. I agreed, extremely disappointed, wary and upset. Yeah, people.... I can't live without my computer!

I suggested that he put it back together in its original state, to which he complied, apologizing profusely for not being able to fix the problem

And guess what?

Yup... you guessed right.

The thing unexpectedly started working.

As of right now, it still is and I have NO idea what caused it to stop in the first place, how it started working again, and how long it's going to live for, but you can bet I've spent the last couple of days backing up ALL my stuff ;)

And yes, the additional happy ending? I was able to return everything for a full refund!!

So that's my Wednesday tale of woe... I'm sorry for not having a snazzy quote for you today.

But I am so happy to be back, it was like seeing sunlight after a month when I opened my blog :D

Yes, you're right... I probably do need more of a life.

Do you guys have any tales to share? I hope everyone's NaNo writing is going well!

Words for Wednesdays

2010-10-27T05:00:00.002-04:00

Today's quote:

"If writers stopped writing about what happened to them, then there would be a lot of empty pages" Elaine Liner

It's true. Most of our writing is derived from our experiences in real life. I think if we didn't have experiences that we thought were worth writing about, our lives would be pretty dull. The sad thing is, not everyone wants to write about them.

Setting, characters, motivation... they can come from anywhere--places we've visited, people we've met, things we've done.

We all have a story to tell.

Sometimes though, I think it's about the story you want to create.

A lot of my writing comes from my imagination, with a tiny bit of my experiences thrown in here and there for good measure. Depending on the day, and my mood, there may be more or less.

But a lot of it comes from things I wonder about, things that take up room in my brain, and give life to my imagination. It's the stuff that keeps me up at night, thinking, "now, wouldn't that be cool".

I guess at the end of the day, you need to do what feels comfortable for you - there's no right or wrong way.

Do you write mostly from your own experiences, or do you write based upon something you've created in your head?

Taking November by Storm

2010-10-25T05:00:00.001-04:00

Yup people, November, also known as Nation Novel Writing Month, also known as NaNoWriMo, is just around the corner!

Although I'm pretty certain everyone reading this post is already very familiar with exactly what NaNo is, if by any chance you're lost right now, go here to find out more and register!

Basically, it's the one month of the year that we all huddle down in the cave, and write our butts off in hopes of attaining the true honor of being able to say "I wrote 50K in one month!"

I signed up last year, and was able to report a very shameful 0 words (*hangs head in shame*)... yes 0 (don't look at me like that! ;) ).

I was all gung-ho and signed up for the first time ever, yet I didn't even go anywhere near my MS for the entire month.

Not this year--I've signed up again, and I will not be defeated!

I've estimated that I have approximately 40K left to finish this current MS. I know a lot of people tend to either start new projects for NaNo, or use the time to push forward with their current novels.

I'm not sure yet exactly what I want to do. I think I should continue with my current MS, since I've built up a really great momentum in the past week, and I'm scared that if I stop and take a break, I'll lose it.

At the same time, it seems like a great opportunity to start something new... pluck one of the ideas simmering on the back burner and bring them into the limelight.

I'll see how this week goes before I decide. I hope you'll join me next month though :)

How about you? Are you signing up for NaNo this year? Will you be starting a new project, or trying to get 50K in on your current one?

Work In Progress: Friday Update

2010-10-22T05:00:00.004-04:00

So as I mentioned last week, I have decided to stick with my current WiP, and boy am I glad I did. It was like as soon as I made up my mind and committed to it, the ideas just started flowing.

And it's weird, because it feels like they're coming out of no where. Next week, I will give you some examples of what I mean.

For today, I wanted to update you on my progress.

This week alone, I was able to write 10k... I don't know if that's a lot or a little bit by normal standards, but for me, it's huge. I haven't written that much since my break.

Along with the word count increase, I also went back and edited the first 50 pages that I knew needed to change.

So yes, it has been a VERY productive week.

I hope next week is just like this one, if not better :D

How are you guys all coming along with your current projects?

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend! :)

Words for Wednesdays

2010-10-20T05:00:00.001-04:00

Alrighty, so I've settled on "Words for Wednesdays"... I'm sure there are other wacky titles I could use, and when I think of them, you can be sure it's going to change ;)

Today's quote:

"Writing is no trouble: you just jot down ideas as they occur to you. The jotting is simplicity itself - it is the occurring which is difficult" Stephen Leacock

I am always daydreaming.

I think at least fifteen times per day (sometimes more, sometimes less), I think to myself, "what if". It's usually based on something that transpires around me, or some random thought that meanders into my brain, but I'm constantly thinking, "hey, maybe that would be a great idea for a story".

The thing is - apart from that one liner, many of those ideas never come to fruition (that may actually be a good thing because otherwise I'd have a lot of half written stories lying around). If I remember however, I do jot them down, and hope that one day I'll return to them.

So while I don't exactly have trouble with ideas occurring or with jotting them down, sometimes, when I start panicking, or worrying, I do have trouble with expanding on them. One idea doesn't always lead to another, and some days or weeks, I can be stuck for hours, racking my brain, and wondering what the heck I was thinking. Sometimes what seems like a great idea at the time, is much more difficult to build upon from that one liner.

It's true though. Jotting down your great ideas is relatively simple. Keeping hold of the ever slippery muse? A whole other story ;)

What about you? Do you ever struggle with coming up with ideas? What part of writing is the easiest for you?

EXTRA, EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT!

2010-10-19T05:00:00.009-04:00

Alright everyone, like I said yesterday, we are interrupting our usual programming to bring you a very special announcement.

We've been counting down the days, and it's finally here!

As many of you may know, today is the official release date of our dear friend Alex's debut novel, CassaStar.

If you're new to the blog, please go visit Alex's site, and check out his virtual tour schedule. I promise you, you won't be disappointed!

About Alex:

Alex J. Cavanaugh has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and works in web design and graphics. He’s experienced in technical editing and worked with an adult literacy program for several years. A fan of all things science fiction, his interests range from books and movies to music and games. Currently he lives in the Carolinas with his wife.

Now, without further delay, please see below for a synopsis of CassaStar:

CassaStar by Alex J. Cavanaugh

October 19, 2010 Science fiction/adventure/space opera

ISBN 9780981621067 Dancing Lemur Press LLC

To pilot the fleet’s finest ship…

Few options remain for Byron. A talented but stubborn young man with a troubled past and rebellious attitude, his cockpit skills are his only hope. Slated to train as a Cosbolt fighter pilot, Byron is determined to prove his worth and begin a new life as he sets off for the moon base of Guaard.

Much to Byron’s chagrin, the toughest instructor in the fleet takes notice of the young pilot. Haunted by a past tragedy, Bassa eventually sees through Byron's tough exterior and insolence. When a secret talent is revealed during training, Bassa feels compelled to help Byron achieve his full potential.

As war brews on the edge of space, time is running short. Byron requires a navigator of exceptional quality to survive, and Bassa must make a decision that could well decide the fate of both men. Will their skills be enough as they embark on a mission that may stretch their abilities to the limit?

Are you not hooked? I am definitely hooked!

Here is where you can find CassaStar:

Links to Purchase:

AMAZON -

http://www.amazon.com/CassaStar-Alex-J-Cavanaugh/dp/0981621066

BARNES & NOBLE -

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/e/9780981621067/?itm=1&USRI=cassastar

BAM -

http://www.booksamillion.com/product/9780981621067?id=4581185563381#overview

Also available in eBook format for Kindle, iPad, Nook, and others

Are you guys still here? Why??? Go, go, GOOOO! Buy your copy now, I'm picking mine up today :D

Good Writing vs. Good Storytelling

2010-10-18T05:00:00.001-04:00

In last Friday's post, I referred to the difference between good writing and good story telling.

A lot of people will say that an adverb riddled, dialog tag filled piece of work is bad writing. Now, while I know the rules, and do believe they should be followed to an extent, I can't say I completely agree with this statement.

If the story is compelling, the characters believable, the arguments strong enough, I find I'll overlook the "bad" writing, because the important thing--the story--is there.

I want to compare this to watching a movie. Sometimes you leave a movie feeling fulfilled and satisfied, having just watched an epic film that will stay with you for weeks. A good book should do the same. You would never leave a movie saying it wasn't well written, you would say that the "storyline" had potential, but they didn't fully develop it.

The difference with a movie is that you're watching the event play out in real time in front of you. In books, a good and well told story will play out in your mind in the same way, regardless of how it's written.

I think everyone can learn how to write well, but being able to create and tell a strong and masterful story... this is a gift. Some people are naturally born storytellers, but those people don't always turn out to be writers. This works in the opposite too.

In my honest opinion, it's all about balance, and that is something we can all learn. A good book should be able to move you, whether it's through the phenomenal writing, or the engaging storytelling, or best of all, a little bit of both. We all obviously have a story to tell, otherwise we wouldn't be writing.

I think in the end, we're all trying, and we're all learning, and this determination and perseverance will make each one of us winners.

What about you? What is the difference between good story telling and good writing? Is there a difference, or do they go hand in hand?

******AND please be sure to check back tomorrow, yes, TOMORROW, for an unscheduled posting and a very special announcement... and NO, I'm not telling you what it is... you'll just have to come back and see ;)******

The End is Near... :(

2010-10-15T05:00:00.001-04:00

I'm almost finished the 6th Harry Potter book.

Annnnnd....

I'm devastated.

I'm trying to read it as slowly as I can, just to savor it.

I don't want them to end! I think if I had managed to read them at some point before now, I would have re-read them about 20 times by now.

I've been going back and watching the movies as I've finished each book, and not only do so many spotty parts make sense now, but I'm beginning to wonder how I thought the movies were so good. They're well done, yes, but the story... oh my gosh.... there is SO much in those books that you couldn't even fit into a DAY long movie!

J.K. Rowling definitely has a gift. She is an amazing story teller. She hooked me right from the beginning with Book 1. I'm almost debating if to re-read the series right now when I've finished, but alas, The Hunger Games calls...

When I'm writing, I usually can't read books without being overly critical and analytical, because I move into full time editing mode.

But this one?

The story just pulled me right in, and I'm not even pausing to notice if there are any glaring flaws.

I think that's what good books are about... next week we'll delve a little bit further into the difference between good writing and good storytelling.

What books have you read recently (or in the past) that had a captivating story?

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Thoughts for Thursdays... On Wednesdays!

2010-10-13T05:00:00.001-04:00

Okay, I'm still wrestling with the Wednesday title for this feature, so until I figure, it will be the above :D

Today's quote:

"When I was a little boy, they called me a liar, but now that I am grown up, they call me a writer." Isaac Bashevis Singer

Well, in my case, it was when I was little girl, and it wasn't a so much a liar as it was, "well, she has a vivid imagination", and "I have no idea how she comes up with these things". ;)

I've always loved to spin stories, especially ghost/mystery stories, vampire stories, always involving teens or preteens, though these days the scary elements have disappeared. I used to love to scare my cousins at our sleepovers with grim, haunting stories that used to keep us up at night, shivering under the covers at 3 a.m., positive we were hearing someone slowly creaking up the stairs towards us, or seeing something peering in the window with glowing red eyes.

At the time, I didn't think of it as story telling, or even that I might want to be a writer someday (in fact, I was pretty sure I was going to be a lawyer). It was just natural to me. It was what I did, a part of who I was, and I thought everyone else did the same.

So when I was told that I had a vivid imagination, I wasn't sure if I was being insulted or not.

To this day, I guess I'm still telling myself these little made up tales, but it's good to know that the "vivid" imagination seems to be leading somewhere. "She's a writer" sounds much nicer than "she's a liar".

Now it's your turn. Were you the type to always tell yourself (and others) stories? Were you labelled as a "liar" (:D) or like me, told it was just an overactive imagination? Did you know you would one day be a writer?

Sticking With It

2010-10-11T21:00:00.004-04:00

I hope everyone had a great weekend!

I spent the weekend going over, and actually re-reading my current MS (yes, the one I mentioned shelving last week). I know, I know... before you start yelling about the dangers of doing this, hear me out :)

I needed to do this to see exactly where I was. I started writing it in July, so quite a bit of time has passed since I first put those words to paper. I wanted to see what drew me to writing them in the first place.

And surprisingly, I'm actually glad I did--because as you know--this usually has the opposite effect on me. I think with some minor tweaking at the beginning, and some major tweaking in the middle--which is where I am--this thing might be salvageable.

I'm loathed to let this one go too. Despite my misgivings, I really have become attached to these characters and the story. I just can't stop thinking about it, even when I wasn't writing it.

Sooooo.... on that note, many of you will be glad to hear that, as you had strongly advised, I have decided to continue with this MS.

If it works, it works, and that's great, but if at the end it doesn't, at least I can say I tried and I completed it, and learned something along the way, which in the long run, may help me more than abandoning it at this stage.

What about you? What factors make you either push on with a project that might seem hopeless despite the potential, or shelve it to start a new one?

p.s. Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian friends! :)

New Blogging Schedule

2010-10-08T05:00:00.004-04:00

Happy Friday Everyone!

So as I mentioned earlier this week, I will be unveiling my new blogging schedule today.

Previously, I tried to post everyday. While I love doing this, it's unfortunately not leaving me much time to anything else... like write my book ;). This will also give me more time to visit all of you too. What can I say... I have a serious addiction, and I can't/won't kick the habit, so I needed to find a compromise.

Thus I've decided to post 3 days a week. Henceforth, I will be blogging on:

Monday

Wednesday

Friday

Thoughts for Thursdays will now be..umm.. something for Wednesdays (Words for Wednesdays?)

There may be the occasional, additional postings when fits of randomness strike (and you know they will).

I'll also do bi-weekly WiP updates on Fridays.

There we have it.

I hope everyone has a fantabulous weekend :D. What are your plans? Anything exciting in the works?

Why I Blog

2010-10-07T05:00:00.002-04:00

I know I usually do a "Thoughts" post on Thursdays, but as I will be posting a new blogging schedule tomorrow, I decided that I will do something a little different today.

Since my return this week, with visiting everyone, and seeing your comments, I've started thinking about why I blog.

I began this journey just over a year now, and I was reading the first post I made in July of 2009. It seems so long ago, and things are very different now. I was a sporadic blogger for a while, mostly lurking, too shy and scared... worried that no one would want to read what I had to say. I decided to take the plunge however (because you never know until you put yourself out there) and I became fairly active this year.

I know people say blogging, twittering, facebooking, etc. are all great ways to build your platform. Especially if you want to be a writer - it's good to earn your audience now, to get your name out there. And while this is all true--I'm not sure it's why I started, or even why I continue.

I blog anonymously right now. I'm not quite ready to share myself with the world as yet (rest assured, as soon as I'm ready to reveal myself, you guys will be the first to know!).

Because of that, this was supposed to be an online journal, a way to share with the world what I was doing even though no one else (apart from my sister) knows. It was a way to get myself out there without really putting myself out there... if that makes sense.

Because you guys get it. You get what this is all about.

Because you do it too.

Writing is one of the most personal things you can do - you're letting people into your head... to see your innermost thoughts and feelings. It's a scary thing.

The thing is... blogging has become so much more than what I initially meant it to be. I've connected with so many wonderful people, in all different stages of this process, and I've learned so much from each and every one of you. You are all inspiring and positive, you let me vent and you "listen". I'm able to express myself freely without fear of the blank "look" or sense of confusion you can sometimes get from people when you tell them you want to be a "writer". I'm able to share with you and take part in all of your experiences and journeys too.

So for all that and more...thank you :)

This is why I blog.

Why do YOU blog?

WiP Update

2010-10-06T05:00:00.002-04:00

Soo... I'm sure you've been wondering since my return... did she meet her lofty goal?

And the sad, sad answer, as you may have already deduced from the little wordometer in my sidebar, while I did make progress, I definitely did not finish - or even get half way :(.

I'm not too upset though, I got much further than I have all year. I have 25k, and just over 100 pages. Most of my word count was obtained during those first two weeks of my break--before things got too hectic.

As you can guess, I'm not querying this year--which as many of you have told me, is okay. It's better to not rush through it and submit something of less quality than I'm capable of. This first novel is the only one you actually have all the time in the world for.

You want to hear the bad part?

I want to start over. AGAIN.

I must have some sort of strange complex. Even though I've been good with this one! I haven't been re-reading or revising throughout. But I'm watching the story in my head, and I don't like the way it's playing out, and I keep having visions of a different beginning, different dialogue, different plot overall...

I'm okay with starting it again... I'm just wondering how many times I'll keep doing this. I always say "there's a reason for everything", and I know there's a reason I need to keep working until I get this story to come out exactly the way I want it to.

Maybe I'm just trying to convince myself? Maybe I'm just crazy... ;)

How many of you suffer from this dilemma? How many times did you restart your WiP before you were able to finish it? If you have finished - when did you know it was right?

Weddings & Family & the Zoo, oh my! AND Harry!

2010-10-05T05:00:00.009-04:00

Warning: this post is almost entirely NOT about writing

This past little while has been absolutely crazy! Between two weddings and two sets of relatives visiting for an extended amount of time at alternate times, needless to say, my "time off" has been quite hectic.

Relatives took up the last bit of my summer, but it was great to have that mini reunion, as my family from New York hadn't visited since 2006. We usually visit them at least once or twice every year, but we haven't had a chance to this year. We're debating a visit in November.

I went to the zoo for the first time in eleven years around the end of summer. I don't think it's changed one bit, but I love it all the same! I can't believe it took me so long to go back. Random: has anyone ever seen an elephant pee before? Because let me tell you, it's not something you'll soon forget :|.

September was wedding month. Both my cousin and my best friend (separate people) got married (not to each other). My friend has actually moved away, and I've been really feeling that loss this week, as I used to meet her for lunch almost everyday!

I also started reading the Harry Potter series (for the FIRST time--yes, I know, gasp!), and I am currently on Book 6 - The Half Blood Prince (yes... apparently I'm so clever as to choose my writing break to undertake this task). Can I just ask you... was I living under a rock all this time? How have I not read these books before? They are AMAZING, and J.K. Rowling is fast becoming a favorite author :D. That woman can definitely tell a story. She was on Oprah the other day.

That was my break in a nutshell... I guess I lied... it was ENTIRELY not about writing, but don't worry - that's coming tomorrow ;).

What exciting things have YOU done in the last little while?

...And now for your viewing pleasure:

Bye for now!

The Return of WritingNut

2010-10-04T05:00:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Guess who????

That's right... after almost a month and a half, I am back!

I missed you guys so much! I've been trying to visit your blogs as much as I can, and if I haven't made it to yours, I'm sorry...but don't worry, I will!

As I sit here typing this, it's both foreign and familiar, kind of like coming home after being away for too long. I can't believe so much time has passed, yet at the same time, it's kind of like I never left? Does that make sense?

Soooo... what have I been up to for the last little while, you ask?

All this and more shall be revealed over the course of the upcoming week, as well as a new blogging schedule to be unveiled on Friday. Hmm... exciting, I know :D

Just wanted to let you all know I'm still alive and kicking.

Hope to see you all again soon! :)

Simon Says: TAKE A BREAK

2010-08-16T05:15:00.004-04:00

Hi Everyone--I'm back, buuuuuut, not for long! :(

Due to being sick last week, I honestly didn't do very much (both with writing and life) and I feel like I've lost a lot of valuable time.

As a result, and with summer being so close to an end, I've decided to follow suit with many of you bloggers in the blogosphere and take a little time out. Not only do I have lots going on (family coming in to visit, birthdays, holidays), I also set a very lofty goal not too long ago, and I want to try to stick with it as much as I can.

I still want to try and finish the first draft of my manuscript by early September, so in order to try and adhere to this, I will be taking some time off from posting.

I will still be visiting all of you as much as I can though! I don't think I'll be able to cut myself off completely, and of course, I'll need to take breaks :)

So today will be my last post until around the middle of September. I will miss all of you and seeing your comments for the next little while, but hopefully it will be here before we know it!

Wish me luck--I hope I'll have good news to report back. :)

What are your goals or plans for the rest of the summer?

My Whereabouts

2010-08-12T12:50:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone! I'm very sorry for my lack of posting, commenting and visiting your blogs this past week.

I've been down and out with a very nasty cold/flu, and haven't been on the computer much. I'll be doing catch up and making my rounds this weekend.

I'll be back to regular posting next week!

See you all soon :)

"Food" for Thought, and New Goals!

2010-08-06T05:15:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday Everyone!

I hope I find some time to write this weekend, but there is a huge food festival taking place downtown and I plan to be there! Sigh. I love anything with food and festivals--put them together and I'm in heaven.

So I mentioned goal setting earlier this week, and I think I am finally ready to commit (scary, I know). I hope I'm not biting off more than I can chew, especially considering that we're in the last month of summer and every weekend from here on out is pretty much solidly booked with things to do/catch up on.

I want to finish this novel by the end of August/early September, and start querying by the November timeframe--but before the holidays because I read that it's a bad time to reach out to agents.

Do you think it's too much in too little time? It will be sort of like a pseudo NaNoWriMo, (in August) especially seeing as how I need to get from 13k to 80k *shifty eyes*.

I just want to finish--even if it takes me longer to do revisions later and I end up needing more time to polish and don't end up querying this year, I think it will be okay, because at least I'll have something to work with, right? Right!

How about you guys? Do any of you have specific deadlines? Are you reaching the querying stage? And of course, do any of your weekend plans involve food? ;) If not, what you up to?

Thoughts for Thursdays

2010-08-05T05:15:00.001-04:00

Today's quote:

"Plot springs from character...I've always sort of believed that these people inside me--these characters--know who they are and what they're about and what happens, and they need me to help get it down on paper because they don't type." Anne Lamott

I know this is nothing new. Almost every single writer will tell you the same thing - at some point or another, the characters start to run the show. Sometimes it's hard to distinguish just who's telling the story and who's controlling what.

You find that you start off with one idea, only to find that you've written something completely different down on the paper, and pointless "arguments" with a certain rebellious teenage boy ensue.

My characters take me for a spin all the time. They are constantly changing things on me, doing things I didn't expect, which in turn, lead to new plots and storylines.

This is probably why for me, I can't really plot out the novel until I start writing and get to know my characters better and their motivation. Even after I do--they surprise me.

And it's true, sometimes don't you wonder if maybe that's what you're supposed to do? Tell their story for them? Otherwise, how would they get it out? ;)

Please share your thoughts on this. Have your characters started to reveal themselves to you as yet? How do they influence your plot?

WiP Update

2010-08-04T05:15:00.003-04:00

I haven't been doing a great job with my daily word count, but I have been making progress on the weekends. I got in about 4000 words this past weekend, including Monday/Tuesday.

You know that point you get to when writing a book where it starts to consume you? You know how you just live and breathe it, and it's all you think about?

That's the point I'm at right now. I go to bed thinking about the story, and wake up with it still on my mind. I'm writing scenes in my head while brushing my teeth. (Yeah, is this only me?)

But despite the fact that it's monopolizing my brain, the words are just flying onto the page, and I really hope things stay that way. The story is pretty much developing as I write.

I want to set another goal for when I hope to finish and start querying, but I'm not too sure as yet--hopefully I'll have a better idea within the next couple of weeks.

How about you? How are you all doing with your WiP's?

My Name Is...um, Can I get back to you on that?

2010-07-30T05:15:00.002-04:00

What's in a title? Would a book by any other name smell--er--read as sweet?

I don't want to go into whether a title draws your attention today - I'd like to discuss the magic that takes place waaaay before that.

More specifically, the title of your work, and when/how you arrive there.

Today I was thinking about what I would call my book, but nothing sounds right, and I think it's because for me, it's not finished.

I, for one, have never titled my work before I've started writing. I always wait until the end, and then give my story its name. (I even do that with my blog posts!) I don't know why it's like that--it's just always worked for me.

I know some authors can't write a single word until they've formulated their title, and that works too. To each his/her own :)

When I've finished writing, sometimes the name just comes to me, sometimes I play around with a few, but the one I like the best--when it's right, I just somehow know. (I know sometimes Agents/Publishers suggest different titles based on marketability, but we all have to start somewhere).

What do you do? Do you title your work before or after you start writing? What helps you to determine your title?

p.s. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Thoughts for Thursdays

2010-07-29T05:15:00.001-04:00

Today's quote:

"Usually, when people get to the end of a chapter, they close the book and go to sleep. I deliberately write a book so when the reader gets to the end of the chapter, he or she must turn one more page. When people tell me I've kept them up all night, I feel like I've succeeded." Sidney Sheldon

I've heard many different perspectives on this. Some people enjoy reading a book that gives them time to catch their breath in between each chapter, while others enjoy the breakneck pace that leaves them breathless at each turn and dying to know what happens next.

I'm the type that loves moving at the breakneck pace, but I don't mind the breather now and again. When I'm forced to put down the book at a point when I need to know what happens next, it drives me crazy--this is when I appreciate a nice wrap up chapter.

With my own writing however, I try to do a bit of both.

What's your take on this? Do you love to read books where the end of each chapter forces you to turn to the next, or do you prefer some time to catch your breath? How about when it comes to your writing?

I just can't let go...

2010-07-28T05:15:00.001-04:00

I was standing on the train platform yesterday, anxious for it to come so that I could get on and get back to my Harry Potter book, which I couldn't do beforehand because I was holding too many things that would make turning pages difficult--when something caught my eye.

The girl next to me had a fancy little contraption in a brown leather case, which she held with one hand, her purse slung over her shoulder and two additional bags resting comfortably on her other arm. Every now and again, she would click something with her thumb, but apart from that, there was no other movement.

Yes--as you may have already guessed--it was an e-reader.

When the train arrived, I settled in and pulled out my book, which I had hastily shoved into my bag that morning and now had a nice crease on the right hand corner. The same girl sat down across from me just as I was thinking that would never happen with an e-reader.

I know this is nothing new, and this topic has probably been exhausted by now, but I guess I've been avoiding reality. The truth is, I like holding the books, I like the smell of them and the way they feel in your hands. I love walking into a bookstore and not knowing which aisle to go to first, and wondering which treasure I'll take home that day, and when I'll be able to come back for more.

And while I know they're better for the planet, more portable and economic, I just can't make myself convert. I can't imagine holding a screen in my hands and not being able to turn pages (even though they sometimes pose an inconvenience--it adds to the whole experience!).

It's inevitable, but I'm not ready to cross that bridge yet. It may burn, and I may still be standing on the other side, but that's another story for another day.

What's your take on this? Is this the future of books? Have you switched over to an e-reader as yet, or are you like me, and can't relinquish that indescribable bind you feel to real, tangible, old fashioned books?

Weekend Update and the Moment of HORROR

2010-07-26T05:15:00.006-04:00

I hope everyone had a great weekend!

My weekend was productive, although not as productive as I would have liked. I got through 6,136 words, although maybe it's closer to 7,000 because I went back and rewrote a section at the beginning that became irrelevant in Chapters 2 and 3, then deleted it. I just took the final word count. So 2k short, but it's still something though!

On Sunday evening, disaster struck. I was plugging away at the keyboard furiously, the scene practically writing itself, when what should happen?

The power went out. Yes. The power went OUT. I'm not kidding.

Now, I'm currently working on the desktop, so everything literally shut down. I proceeded to bite my nails for the next half an hour while I waited in vain for the darn electricity to come back on (amazing our dependency on technology). I'd been saving the document all along as I went, but for the life of me, I couldn't remember the last time I hit the button before everything went black.

Thankfully, that document recovery function in Word is working, and I didn't lose anything. It did sort of put a damper on the rest of the evening though, and needless to say, I didn't do much else after that. At least I still have it! Can you imagine losing the entire weekend's work (or the entire MS *shudders*)? I haven't made this much progress in a while.

How was your weekend? Did you make a dent in that MS? Have you ever experienced a computer mishap while working on your novel? Please--share your experience!

Let's Play Catch Up

2010-07-23T05:15:00.002-04:00

Happy Friday Everyone!

I'm sorry I haven't made it to many of your blogs in the last two days, but I promise I will be making my rounds today.

After that, I'm going into a writing frenzy in the cave - think I'm going to aim high for this weekend since I don't have much else planned.

My goal?

I'm going to set the bar way at the top for me for two day's worth of writing - say 8000k (I wanted to say 10k, but come on, I've barely written 2k this entire week). I need to play some serious catch up with regards to my daily word count goal - updates on that to come next week.

I hope everyone has an awesome weekend, filled with productivity, fun and relaxation (if possible).

What are your plans for the weekend?

Anyone want to take a (hopefully not mildly ridiculous) word count challenge with me?? :D It doesn't have to be that exact number, just a commitment to make a serious dent in your MS!

Thoughts for Thursdays

2010-07-22T05:15:00.002-04:00

Today's quote:

"We don't write what we know. We write what we wonder about." Richard Peck

I know the old adage is to "write what you know", but when I stumbled across this quote, I realized how true it was (for me anyways - I know it depends on what you're writing).

A lot of us create our books based on "what if" scenarios, and while writing what we know lends the foundation, the real story emerges based on an idea in your head, a burning question to which you are dying to know the answer - what if this happened? How would it work? How would so and so resolve this problem?

Say for example...ummm.. I don't know...What if a girl finds herself falling in love with a vampire who cannot resist the smell of her blood ;) OR What if a young boy, on his 11th birthday, discovers he is a wizard?

Obviously these are not the only cases (Stephen King says the majority of his stories start with this same question), but I guess what I'm trying to say is if we, as writers, didn't wonder about things and try to write them down and find resolutions for them, there may quite a few less books in the world... and wouldn't that make for a dreary place.

Do you agree or disagree? What do you write about - what you know or what you wonder about? Perhaps a little bit of both?

What's your sign?

2010-07-21T05:15:00.000-04:00

This may seem a little random (although by now I know you're probably used to it), but I promise, I have a point.

What is your zodiac sign?

I'm a Capricorn, and according to most sites, I'm pretty on point, with a hint of Sagittarius thrown in.

Now the whole reason I started thinking in depth about this is because I was trying to decide my MC's birthday. I wanted to make her birthday in June, but (of course) I got slightly distracted, and ended up doing some research, and I found out that her characteristics don't fit a Gemini or Cancer. Maybe a Taurus...

Truthfully, it doesn't make a difference--in the end I am going to make her what I want to make her, even if she does have all of the attributes of a bull in August, but I thought it was interesting. I'm not big on this stuff now, even though I was very into it when I was younger. I used to borrow books and books on Astrology and horoscopes from the library.

Do you believe in the Zodiac? Does it have any effect on your characters? Do you base them off of these signs?

No.. YOU wait your turn! Please?

2010-07-20T05:15:00.003-04:00

Okay, quick show of hands: how many of you are writing more than one story right now?

I have one question for you...

HOW do you do it????

I'm currently writing two parts of the SAME story (the back story and Book 1 of my novel), and boy am I getting myself confused. The back story isn't even a real part of the book - it's strictly just for me and my own knowledge.

To make matters worse, I think I'm toying with ideas that shouldn't even come into play until three books from now. And on top of that one, I'm also getting ideas that shouldn't even be in this story PERIOD.

So I'm just jotting everything down and sticking with my guns, no matter how tempting that shiny...new...distracting...eye popping...amazing...grrrrr... idea IS. It's not even like my current story is falling to the wayside (thank goodness), it's still there too, and my mind feels like it wants to explode!

But despite all my frustration......I.... I love it! I absolutely love it, and wouldn't change it for the world. I would take being too creative any day to having my muse go on vacation again. Those were not fun times.

Do you ever feel this way? Do you have so many ideas from different (or the same) projects bouncing around your head that need to get out?

p.s. For those of you with more than one on the go, I bow to you - you guys are brilliant!

Shhhh....!

2010-07-19T05:15:00.001-04:00

I hope everyone had a fabulous weekend!

I was at the doctor's office on Friday and I took my book along with me to read as I knew the wait was going to be over an hour (it was actually nearly two and a half!). I was near the end of the book, at quite an exciting part, but I just couldn't concentrate.

Why?

The receptionist had the radio on, and the speakers were right above my head. Depending on how loud it is or how distracting, I can tune out the world around me when I'm reading or writing, but a lot of the time I need complete silence to get into the zone--especially when writing.

I know quite a few people can read or write or study with music, or some sort of background noise, but I am definitely not one of them. Never have been. My muse likes to go partying when the beat hits, and leaves me stranded at the back wall, watching and waiting for my turn (or banging my head desperately against said wall).

Which type are you? Do you usually read or write with music or any sort of background sounds for inspiration or are you like me, and need the silence to hear yourself think?

The Big ONE-OH-OH!

2010-07-16T05:15:00.002-04:00

People!

Something incredible has happened! Earth shattering! Mind blowing! (at least to ME)

I. have. reached. 100. FOLLOWERS!!!!!! (Hi Nicole! :D *smiles & waves*)

I'm still looking at the number in awe. When I first started blogging, I honestly wasn't sure if I could do it. I wasn't sure if I had anything worthwhile to say that anyone would want to read about.

But that's the thing about the blogosphere - you're welcomed with open arms - everywhere I go, I feel the love :)

You have no idea how much your comments and support mean to me. The understanding, guidance and acceptance within this community is something I have not been able to find anywhere else.

Each and every single one of you is so amazing, and unique, and creative, and inspiring (I could go on forever) and I'm not sure what I would without visiting your blogs and seeing your comments. Amidst the rejoicing and cheering, commiserating and consoling, we constantly push each other forwards. You guys keep me moving.

Not only do I feel like I've made honest to goodness, genuine friends here, but I learn something new everyday, and I am so grateful for all of this.

Now I WILL be having a shiny, exciting contest very soon (I clearly wasn't planning ahead), but I'm not sure when as yet, as I want to it to be extra special to give back a little bit of the love you all have shown me in the past month and a half!

Thank you all again from the bottom of my heart and I hope everyone has an uber awesome weekend!

Thoughts for Thursdays

2010-07-15T05:15:00.001-04:00

Today's quote:

"I know I was writing stories when I was five. I don't know what I did before that. Just loafed I suppose" P.G. Wodehouse

The first story I can remember writing was when I was six. It was grade one, and we had to write a very short piece for our unique class project. We were hatching chickens. Yes. Real, live chickens. We had incubators set up in the classroom and each group of 5 or 6 had an egg assigned to them.

When he hatched, my story was about Clutzy, the little yellow baby chick with the blue dot on his head. We wrote the stories up, illustrated them, and they were taken to our school's "copy" room for printing and publishing. Really, the little leaflets just came back laminated and nicely binded, but hey, we were six--this was a very big deal, and it made us feel extremely important.

I think I still have it somewhere. If I can find it, I will scan and post it for you guys.

How old were you when you first realized you wanted to write? When did you write your first story and what was it about?

For the Love of Reading

2010-07-13T05:15:00.004-04:00

So Day 1 updates?

515 words.

Not great, and not quite where I wanted to be, but it's halfway there and definitely something, right? Baby steps.

I'll probably do a bi-weekly progress update for this--just to keep you all informed, and me on my toes. I don't want to be reporting nothing now, do I? :D

All this got me thinking about something else. I know we try to set writing goals for the day or the week or the year, whichever works best :), but you know what they say, if you want to write well, you need to read a lot. Like a LOT.

With the busy lives we all lead, it's hard to squeeze in precious time to do some reading, but like with writing, reading to me is essential.

I usually read in the train as that's the only part of the day that I can get some uninterrupted time for it - it's not much, usually about an hour or just over (depending on delays). But similar to making however much writing progress, it's something.

What about you? Do you find it's harder to find the time to read now along with your other responsibilities? When do you usually find time to read?

Ooh, and before you go! I want to say thank you to the fabulous Bec over at Gaining my writing wings... for this beautiful award that she made. Please check out her blog now if you haven't already - you won't be disappointed.

Set it, but don't forget it!

2010-07-12T05:15:00.002-04:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and got a bit (or a lot) of time to do some writing.

I have decided that I'm going to develop (and try to stick to) some sort of schedule. It may not work, because my days tend to be all over the place, ending at all odd hours, but it may help me to stay on track a LITTle more, and feel a lot more productive!

And ain't no shame in that ;)

My new goal is to write at the very minimum 1000 words per day. I've decided that I will try to achieve this goal every weekday between 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and every weekend between 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

And of course the best way to stick to something is to TELL people about it, because once everyone knows, it makes it harder to not do it, because now other people have expectations of you too.

Wish me luck! Day 1 starts TODAY.

Time to share. Do you have some sort of writing schedule or daily writing goal that you currently adhere to? If not, do you have one in mind that you plan to implement SOON?

Searching for the Greener Grass

2010-07-09T05:15:00.002-04:00

So I know I usually try to leave you with an inspirational post on Fridays to help us welcome the weekend, but I had an awful day yesterday and unfortunately, am not feeling very motivated :(

I hate my "day" job. I really do. The day stretched on for more than 12 hours yesterday.

But I'm scared to venture out there and change it for fear of the unknown. I've been there for almost 5 years nows, and while most people may be thinking that's high time for a change, I'm thinking that maybe I've just reached the epitome of the comfort zone (and shouldn't that be a good thing?).

But do you know what I'm really scared of? I'm worried this "day" job is going to suck the creativity right out of me. Like I will wake up one day and find that it's become my entire existence, and I've lost... well... me!

Now I know I just need to keep moving forward, and plowing through and believing in myself, but some days (like yesterday) prove to be more difficult than others! I'm so sorry to be a downer--I'm not trying to be--I just wanted to put this out there.

I think my dislike for this job should be pushing me to finish this book sooner - I need to redirect that energy.

Please tell me I'm not alone in feeling this way and that I'm not crazy. Do you ever have these moments/fears? If you're currently working, are you amongst the fortunate few that wake up every morning excited to go to work? Are you doing what you love?

Thoughts for Thursdays

2010-07-08T05:15:00.001-04:00

I'm really liking hearing your thoughts on the past couple of quotes I've put up, and since I have so many, I think I am going to make it a permanent Thursday feature :)

"Writing, at its best, is a lonely life. Organizations for writers palliate the writer's loneliness, but I doubt if they improve his writing. He grows in public stature as he sheds his loneliness and often his work deteriorates. For he does his work alone and if he is a good enough writer he must face eternity, or the lack of it, each day" - Ernest Hemingway

I don't know if I'm allowed to disagree with this, because well, it's Hemingway, but I am going to.  I think the art of writing itself can be construed as being lonely--because most people do write when they are alone for that's when the ideas flow.  Yes, you probably do produce your best work whilst alone, but it doesn't have to be lonesome though.  Not all the time.

To me, it's also about achieving that balance, which allows you to manage both writing and other aspects of your life.  And I know it's hard, especially when you're juggling several hats, and trying to fit far too many hours into one day, but somehow, we manage.  We make it work.

Please share your thoughts on this - do you agree or disagree, and which side of the spectrum are you on?  What advice do you have for those who are struggling?

Before the beginning, there was.... uh, what?

2010-07-07T05:45:00.003-04:00

Okay, so my story begins when my characters are ages 15 and 17. They have a history, but no one knows it. The characters don't even know it. It will be revealed to all as the series progresses.

The thing is - I don't quite know it yet either, and I want to. I want to know that back story. I want to know their history.

Unfortunately, since it hasn't been written yet, I'm as much in the dark right now as readers will be later. But the author should know, right?

So I have two little side projects along with writing my main MS -- I'm going to write that back story. It will really just be for my own edification, and probably no one will ever read it, but I will have it, and I think it will help with writing the novels.

Because as they say--you don't really know where you're going unless you understand where you came from.

They will be short, maybe about 30k - 40k each, 2 novellas which chronicle the beginning.

Do you ever experience this when you're writing? Or do you usually already know the history of your characters and your story when you start?

I'm late--I'm late!...Oh wait... I'm not???

2010-07-02T05:45:00.008-04:00

In Tuesday's post, I alluded to "having all the time in the world" to write when I was younger. And looking back now, I really did. At least it seemed that way. And yes, the fact of the matter is I don't have so much now.

So I am going to play devil's advocate here, because I strongly believe in both sides of the coin.

Yes, you have all the time in the world to create, to write, to get back to it, to do it, and it's true that you should never rush your art. Because writing doesn't necessarily work that way. You need to feel inspired and motivated, and while much of the time, you can get into that particular zone just by simply writing, writing anything, if you try to force it, you might mess it up. But that doesn't mean you should be sitting around waiting for inspiration or your muse to strike.

Because on the other hand, if you're not doing something--anything--you won't finish. And you have to finish, regardless of when--if not for anything else, at least for yourself. And you will finish, you just need to believe in yourself that much. In the end, only you can push you to do what you have to do.

Life may not get easier, in fact, it might become more complicated (as I've realized), and we're always going to be searching for time to do things.

This isn't a race or a competition, just make certain you have no regrets and you're happy with where you are. There's always time to get there, but you have to keep moving forward and towards your goal.

Do you ever have these moments? Do you ever feel like you're running out of time or that you won't finish what you've started?

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend :)

p.s. Happy 4th of July to all you American bloggers out there :)

REALLY? That's SO VERY weird!

2010-07-01T05:45:00.002-04:00

I have another quote for you to lead into today's post:

"Substitute "damn" every time you're inclined to write "very;" your editor will delete it and the writing will be just as it should be". Mark Twain

As soon as I saw this, I laughed, because, very truly and really, honestly, this is so totally and completely me.

When blogging, I usually write the way I might speak, or how I hear things being said in my head. Then I get all excited and try to do the same thing (usually without even realizing it) in my novel.

Unfortunately, the same passion that might come across quite effectively in your speech will ultimately probably be the death of your MS.

We all have our favorite qualifiers that we brutally overuse until they drive your reader (and you when you finally notice them) crazy.

While "very", "really" and "so" may be my worst offenders, I am guilty as charged of all of the above.

What are some of your favorites? What words do you tend to find yourself overusing?

p.s. Happy Canada Day to all you Canadian bloggers out there :)

Why do you write?

2010-06-30T05:45:00.000-04:00

I wanted to elaborate a bit more on yesterday's post. While writing is a necessity for most of us, I was curious as to why you do it? Yes, we love it, but what is the driving force behind it?

I know I write because I love to create, and there's so much going on in my head that if I didn't put it down somewhere and get it out, I would go crazy. Most of my emotions go into my writing and the story sometimes takes a turn depending on how I'm feeling at the time (not that it's always a good thing). It's not only a great outlet, but also a form of escapism.

I write when I need a break from everyday complicity, when I'm happy, when I'm sad, when I want to think about something else, when I need to vent--the list goes on.

And lastly, yet probably the most obvious, although not everyone agrees...

I want to be published.

Plain and simple. I want to see my name and my words in print. Maybe it's the feat of overcoming that obstacle, chasing the white rabbit, obtaining that elusive goal, but I want it.

Now, of course, it's your turn: Why do you write?

And I can't fight this feeling anymore...

2010-06-29T05:45:00.001-04:00

I'm frustrated. It's been almost 3 days, and I haven't had a chance to write - at ALL. I had a wedding to attend this weekend, and it was a LONG affair, which usurped the majority of my time.

Don't get me wrong--it was great--and nice to get out for a bit, but I was itching to get back to my little corner and write. I consoled myself with the fact that I would be home soon. When I got back however, things were exploding at work, and instead of writing, I ended up logging into the office, so once again, I was deprived of what I wanted to do. Needless to say, I was fuming.

And it got me thinking: when did writing become a necessity for me? Had it always been?

When I was younger, and throughout most of high school, I wrote every single day. EVERY single day, and it was so easy, and not much got in the way besides homework. I never had the chance to miss it. And it seemed like I had so much TIME (more on that later this week).

When University came around, other things were distracting me, and writing took a backseat, but I didn't mind so much because I figured I'd get back into it one day. Maybe. Probably. Unless life took another route...

For the past two years I've been writing consistently, as much as I can, and although life did take another route, it hasn't been any consolation, or gotten any easier. Because it's not the path I wanted to travel upon.

It really bugs me that things get in the way, although I know it's inevitable. I need to write,but I can't always just give into the urge on any whim. Even though I try to set aside time for it, things will pop up. Unavoidable things that have to be done.

So yes, writing is now a necessity to me. It's become an integral part of who I am, and I am downright antsy when I don't get to do it :).

What about you? Is writing a necessity for you? Do you find yourself wishing you were writing when you are caught up or busy with other things?

You are great because...

2010-06-25T05:45:00.003-04:00

It's Friday! Woooooo :)

Now I want everyone to go into the weekend feeling happy and inspired, so I would like to do a little "kick-in-the-butt-indulgent-reminder" discussion today. (Yeah, it's weird, but you already know I'm all about making up things ;) )

I know we all have our down days (or weeks), but there is something (or many things) great and wonderful about each of us. Sometimes it's hard to remember this when you're feeling behind, or procrastinating, or stuck for ideas, or too busy to do what you love. Whatever the case may be, you're not alone and you are wonderful.

Got that?

You ARE wonderful. Because of who you are, not because of what you do or where you are.

It's not enough today to just repeat it after me, so I want each of you to share with me why you are.

It could be anything--because you're happy, fun-loving, a great writer, quirky, brave, positive, good at your job, caring, confident, like animals/people/creatures/aliens, a good parent/brother/sister/friend/aunt/uncle--okay.. you get the point. It literally can be annnyything. It just has be something that you know makes you wonderful.

I shall start:

I am wonderful because I am able to think outside of the box, am creative and am a loyal friend.

Now it's your turn to share: what makes you wonderful? Because remember, you are, we just need to be reminded every now and again.

Have a great weekend Everyone :)

That's Unreal... Or is it?

2010-06-24T05:45:00.003-04:00

I came across a really great quote today and I wanted to share it with you guys.

"Imagination is the reality of the dreamer" - Scott Ringenbach

It's so true! As (fantasy) writers, we would be no where without our imaginations and whether we are born with it or develop it over time, by inherent nature, we are dreamers. I doubt you could truly embrace writing otherwise. We see the world a little differently, we hear voices when no one else can, we live for make believe.

That imaginary world inside of our heads is sometimes more real to us than the world outside.

I know that's the case for me. I'm not sure who I would be without my imagination. It's an integral part of my very being. Maybe that's why I'm so anxious to put it on paper, so other people can see the interesting, um... intricate workings of my mind :D.

Now it's your turn. Do you agree or disagree? Do you find that your imaginary world sometimes seems more real to you than your reality? Would you be lost without your imagination?

It's Raining..It's Pouring...Creativity is Soaring

2010-06-23T06:15:00.003-04:00

Most people when they wake up to a dreary, rainy day, they feel like crawling back into bed. It's the opposite for me.

We had a thunderstorm yesterday while I was at work, and all I kept doing was looking out the window and thinking how much I wanted to write. I had all these great ideas and expanding plot lines, but of course I couldn't act on them because... well... I was supposed to be working.

When I got home - it was bright and sunny, but I was no longer feeling that burning urge to write.

I find it's always that way with me - I write best on rainy days. I'll write on other days too, but it's the rainy days that really allow my creative mojo to soar. There's just something about the sound of the rain that relaxes my brain and allows me to just let go. I tend to get a lot done on those days.

Today is a rainy one too, and it's supposed to last all day - so let's see how much I achieve.

Do you have any specific kind of weather that inspires you to write? If not, do you have a specific day or time of day?

Versatile Blogger Award

2010-06-22T06:15:00.003-04:00

I am very late with posting this, and I know it's gone around to quite a few of you already, so I am very sorry if there are any repeats.

Thank you so very much to both Melissa and Amanda for this award. You guys are the best :)

And if you guys haven't already checked out their blogs, please do so now, because they are awesome! :)

So, here are the rules:

1. Thank and link back to the person who gave you this award.
2. Share 7 things about yourself.
3. Pass the award along to 15 bloggers who you have recently discovered and who you think are fantastic for whatever reason! (In no particular order...)
4) Contact the bloggers you've picked and let them know about the award

Here goes!

1. I've recently discovered gummy bear vitamins (yes, adults can take them too). Oh. My. God. What brilliant genius came up with this and why didn't they do so sooner?!

2. I am addicted to collecting TV series. I am currently trying to find all of my favorites from when I was young - I have: Saved by the Bell, Full House, Reba, Dukes of Hazzard & Mr. Bean to name a few.

3. We used to have budgies and they laid millions of eggs--that actually hatched! We didn't sleep for months because they sang all night (AND all day).

4. One of the things I look forward to the most on vacation is the FOOD.

5. I've never attended a Writer's Conference and I really, really want to. Can't wait for WriteOnCon!)

6. I used to be OBSESSED with origami - if you name it, I probably could have folded it.

7. Sadly, I can't remember the last time I got enough sleep or didn't feel tired (even with all the energy I get from those gummy bear vitamins!).

And I shall now pass this award on to these fabulous bloggers:

1. Lydia @ The Word is My Oyster

2. DL @ Cruising Altitude

3. Simon @ Constant Revision

4. Elana @ Elana Johnson, Author

5. Lindsay @ Adventures in Writing

6. Aubrie @ Flutey Words...

7. Lisa @ Notes from Nadir

8. Bekah @ Mrs. Bekah K

9. Sierra @ Sierra Godfrey

10. Mohamed @ Thoughts and Ponderings

11. Janet @ Janet Summer Johnson

12. Stephanie @ Hatshepsut: The Writing of a Novel

13. Shannon @ Shannon Whitney Messenger

14. Jan @ Jan Cline...freelance writer, author

15. Regina @ Regina Rhythm

Constantcompulsiverevising-itis

2010-06-21T06:15:00.006-04:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

So I wasn't able to stay exactly on track as I planned. I took far too many breaks--notice anything different on the site ;)--and got caught up reading dozens of blogs (I think I should also be blaming you people for having such interesting and entertaining reading material for me, but alas, that's like blaming the chocolate for finding its way into your mouth - you put it there, didn't you? Le sigh... I have no willpower).

Apart from my little rant though, I've come full circle. Back in the early stages of my blog, I made a referral to something I called constantcompulsiverevising-itis. You can read the post here, if you so desire.

THIS, my friends, is the problem. I like to revise way too quickly and way too often. I write a little, re-read it, and unless it's flowing exactly the way I think it should, I revise and edit right away, and then decide I don't like it, and suddenly I've taken 6 steps backwards.

So my new plan is going to be not to re-read my work until after it's written. Maybe then it will flow properly, because hopefully there will be words on the paper to entice said...er... flowyness. (Yup, today is all about making up words ;) )

Alrighty, now it's your turn. When do you revise your work? After it is complete or while working on it?

Moving in the Write Direction

2010-06-18T06:15:00.001-04:00

It's Friday!! I feel like this week would never end - mainly because I am uber excited. About what, you ask?

I am going to WRITE this weekend.

I mean, actually (re) start and work on my MS. And while I know most of you are already doing this everyday, because--well, that's what we're supposed to be doing, I haven't been. *Hangs head in shame*

I've done my little exercise, my characters are ready and I'm just going to STARt. If I wait until I do a plot outline, etc., I'll keep changing things, and end up going backwards.

So this entire weekend will be dedicated to writing.

On a side note, I am also toying with a few ideas for weekly features (to be revealed in the next little while, so stay tuned :) )

How about you? What are your plans for the weekend? Do they involve writing?

Regardless, I hope you have a great one :)

When Good Characters Go Bad (aka Character Backlash - Part Trois)

2010-06-17T06:15:00.002-04:00

Alrighty, here is the second part of my story, continued from Tuesday's post. Before we get into it though, I just wanted to point out a few things as I think there might have been some confusion.

So in Monday's post, I mentioned that I was having some trouble with my MC's in my current MS - this story I am posting here is a little exercise that I did over the weekend as my way of getting reacquainted with them - only I found that they had changed and I no longer recognized them. They are upset with me because I abandoned them and haven't been writing for a while. The narrator in the story is me interacting with my characters :) I hope that clears things up a little and provides some more background--I'm sorry if it was too ambiguous.

What Happened - Part 2

“Wait!” I scream it, my words slicing through the thick air with little effect, like a dull knife.

The street lamps above my head are flickering, and frantically, plunging forward as though I am caught in a kaleidoscope of incomplete dreams, I dash after them.

“Wait! Don’t go!”

Please.

I run and run, until I am out of breath, and my side is cramping. I cannot catch up with them. I stumble, unable to keep moving. I have to face the truth.

I can no longer see them. The lights go out, and I am hurled into a dismal abyss. What am I to do now?

I stifle a scream when I feel the hand on my shoulder.

“We’re still here,” she says calmly. I hear a grunt of disapproval from her left.

I grasp her fingers blindly. “You came back!”

“Yes,” she responds. “I want to give you another chance. You deserve another chance. He has agreed.”

“She doesn’t deserve it—she’s being honored with it.”

I nearly sob with relief. “Thank you! I promise this time—”

“No,” she cuts me off. “What you must understand is that things are different. Nothing can be the same. A lot of time has passed.”

“I understand...” But really, I don’t.

“We won’t wait around again,” he adds, his tone hollow. “We can’t do it again.”

“Take your time,” she adds, her own voice gentler, “but don’t leave. Don’t give up on us. You need to believe. Promise me.”

“I promise,” I swear fervently, desperately. I need them. They need me.

“Then open your eyes and begin again,” the lights are flickering once more.

“What’s happening?” I feel like I’m yelling, but the words are barely a whisper.

They are circling me, closing in and pushing through the brick wall that surrounds me, interjecting themselves into my mind, leaving their imprint.

I exhale and slowly open my eyes, finally able to see…

The End

And on that note - my characters and I are back on agreed terms - I can't say good, because I'm not sure they are as yet. It's almost as if I need to reestablish their trust. They will let me write about them, but I need to commit to it and to them, something I have resolved to do. On the other hand, I do feel like I've awoken from a bad dream.

This was an interesting exercise - I've never done something quite like this, but I found it was very useful.

What about you? Have you ever tried such a writing exercise? What sort of things do you do when your characters start acting up?