Happy New Year!!!

Happy New Year everyone! Hope your New Year is safe, prosperous, and undeniably enjoyable. We're going over to a friends' house and bringing in the New Year. Four adults and seven children. OH MY! And all the kids are under 11 LMAO!
I told the youngsters they could stay up until midnight, IF THEY COULD.
It's exactly this time of year I go through reflections. What have I done last year? What am I doing next year?
I'm blessed this year with my family's health and well-being. I'm blessed to be in such wonderful company as my Goblin Sisters. I have wonderful friends and a career which I LOVE. I'm going to be working on my health and career this next year. The whole family will be eating better, and I want to take my career to the next level. It's shaping up to be a great YEAR! I hope yours is wonderful, too!!!
Grins*

Shrek would be proud

I keep coming back to the part in Shrek when Donkey is questioning Shrek about his "layers". Shrek uses an onion for example, which sets up a rather funny dialogue.
And that's what I'm doing today. Layering. Have my notebook out, and I am writing more notes in my sections of THE NOVEL. The process is really fascinating. It's still like I'm watching a film, but it's slower this time. More thought out. Richer. Fuller. I love it. I'm enjoying the process a lot more than I thought I would. LMAO
Did you catch that, Janie? (GGG) About halfway through the first half of my blocks. I'll be working on this the rest of the week.
Grins*

Jerry Orbach and Reggie White

I can't believe it. Jerry Orbach is dead. That can't be right. Reggie White passed Sunday at age 43. I think I'm in denial.
Reggie White was an all-time sack king. He played for the Green Bay Packers at the end of his career and retired from there. I loved to watch him play. Reverend Reggie, they called him. A man who's heart was as big as he was. God Bless, Reggie.

Jerry Orbach could lay a zinger on you that had your mouth wide open and your eyes even wider. He acted in several venues. Theater. Television. Movies. I loved to watch him on "Law & Order". Man, I would just wait for him to open his mouth, and that delicious wit to pop out. I could watch him several hours a day as he played Lenny Briscoe. But I also loved him in film. Who else could be Lumiere? Who could be the Dad in "Dirty Dancing"? No one. My favorite scene is when he's sitting on the dock, and Baby comes up to him. The poignancy touches me every time. We'll miss you, Jerry. God Bless.

*******

My Artistic Endeavors

I cleaned like a FIEND today. Had the kids shackled with garbage bags in one hand and dusting rags in the other.
I have this whole rearranging thing going on. I want to paint ALL the trim in the living room. I want to finish the bathroom. PLEASE DON'T ASK. 'Tis not a pretty sight. Then there's all the knobs in the hallway. Artwork in the living room. And I am going to craft (in a perfect world) pieces for my living room and kitchen.
Tomorrow I am going over to my Craft Mentor's (Betsy, I adore you!), and she will be showing me the ropes.
I CANNOT believe how much room I have in my house. It's unreal. Since I cleaned my linen drawers in the hallway, I have two empty drawers. OMIGOD! Yes! I said EMPTY! Just goes to show I haven't cleaned them out in three years LMAO.
Now...I am in desperate need of totes. Totes of all sizes. Yes. Yes. Come to me, oh plastic containers. And do my bidding. LMAOOOOOOOO
Grins*

Part Two

Ahhhhh. That's better. More of an even keel now. I'm going to make it. Had to square things up a bit.
It's the last week of December. Utterly incredible. I still need to layer my blocks and study THE NOVEL further. And I'm having this uncontrollable (and for me...this is saying something) urge to clean the house. Start anew. All that yada.
It's that damn HGTV, I tell you. Manic people SHOULD NOT watch the stuff. There should be a disclaimer. "WARNING! If you give no thought to jumping headlong into several projects at once and love to multi-task...DO NOT WATCH!" NOW they tell me.
(SHRUG) Too late. I'm hooked. And now I'm working up a schedule to fit ALL my stuffs into. First and foremost...THE NOVEL. Followed closely by decorating the bejeezus out of my house. *rubbing hands together* Paint...I need fresh paint. And brushes...and that neat little tape that makes sure I don't make a mess. *mumbling to self* drop cloths...sponges...rollers...paint chips...
Grins*

The Post That Never Was...

HMPH! Here I am...blogging away. And my last post was EATEN! I kid you not. Oh, but that is irritating. I was witty. I'm sure of it. Yeah, yeah. And intelligent. Sure, I was. And um...spellbinging. Magnificent. Awe-inspiring.
LMAO
All right. Probably not. But still, it's the thought that counts :)~~
And my thoughts have disappeared into the Blogging Netherworld. Sheesh. I may have to blog twice today.
Grins*
More to come........BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

Merry Christmas!!!

Merry Christmas everyone! Hope your holidays are lovely. I'm enjoying my day immensely. Kids are stuck to the PS2. My youngest is jamming on her new microphone cassette recorder, and the middle girl has the Bratz Twins doing their nails and hair at their new salon. LMAO
I got a glue gun! WOOHOO! And all kinds of artsy craftsy stuff. Keep in mind, I've wanted to be artistic in this venue FOREVER. I have the will but no real direction. But now, NOW, Dear Readers....I have a friend who is taking me under her artistic wing...THANK YOU BETSY!!! I have my glue gun, paint, and all these little pieces of wood and goodies. I am excited! We'll start Glue Gun 101 fairly soon.
Everyone here is happy and healthy. Kids have another week off. Perhaps I'll be glue-gunning them to the closest piece of furniture LMAO.
Grins*

My Grandma Bell

My Grandma Bell is eighty-five years old today. She's an utterly amazing woman with iron will and a strong backbone.
My love of romance started in Grandma's rumpus room. All the adults would play cards and talk. I would grab a romance down from the MANY shelves and curl up next to a window and read. She fed my love of romance and didn't realize she was shaping the future I was to have. Or who I was to become.
I write romances. I love romances. And in my heart, I know it started in Grandma's rumpus room. Your life has touched me more than you know, Grandma. And for that, I'm forever thankful.
Your granddaughter has grown up. She has children of her own. But I look back on those hours spent in your house, immersed in book after book, and smile. Your gift has kept on giving.
I love you, Grandma Bell. Happy Birthday!
Love,
Crystal*

Sugar, sugar everywhere

It's that time again. Yep. Making some cookies tomorrow. Of course, SOME is the understatement of the year. Going to be making some butterscotch, chocolate chips with pecans, homemade turtles, and peanut butter cookies. I think that sums it up. The oven will get quite a workout.
Felt fairly "BLAH" lately. Don't know what's bit my butt. Got in the holiday mood today. Put Sirius Holiday on and made out some Christmas cards. I'll finish the rest early next week. I'm just so damn tired all the time. UGH.
Maybe it'll be better after the holidays. The kids will open presents in ONE WEEK. Don't think I haven't heard THAT about sixty times today. I threatened to start removing the presents if the countdown continued. Ahhhh.....blessed silence.
Grins*

I saw sunshine today!

It really IS the little things. Course...that was a necessity shopping trip. The good with the bad people :)~~
The shopping is mostly done. I have a little bit to do the 23rd. But other than that, I'M DONE! WOOHOO!!
I need to work on THE NOVEL. I'm searching for purposes for each of my sections. That is my next big homework assignment. Which I will work on probably tomorrow.
Cookie and cupcake making on Saturday. Kids' concert on Monday. And Tuesday is their last day. OH MY! I'm hoping Santa slips some sedatives in Mama's stocking LMAO.
Grins*

The Arctic Tundra

I'm talking about my BEDROOM! Brrrrrrrrr. Apparently my wall heater went out before two. Because that's when my orange tabby, who's in heat, started that God-awful meowing which woke me up. I tried to relight it (the heater, not the cat) but couldn't. It won't STAY lit. So. It's a cold son of a gun in here right now.
BUT...how opportune. Instead of piddling around on the computer, I will be compelled to take my frost-bitten heiney into the living room where there are NO distractions, but there is HEAT! BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
And it is there, beside the lovely Christmas tree, where I will work on my blocking and write notes longhand. GASP! The only problem with that, is that I must slow my brain down far enough so that my hands may keep up. (GGG) I hate to lose something valuable in the crevices of my mind. Of course, wouldn't be the first time (shrug and grin).
Grins*

I'm addicted to HGTV

I need a glue gun. Now! I've never wanted one before, but now I MUST have one. My evenings are being taken over by HGTV, and I am loving it. The stuff they can do! With nothing, people! NOTHING! I am awed. (GGG)
Okay. Not that I've purged my sickness for a few moments, I really AM feeling puny. And it has nothing to do with HGTV. I'm not feeling under the weather, I'm feeling like I'm under the bus. After it has run me over a time or two. Maybe it's just nerves. Who knows? If it spreads throughout the house, I'd say that's a good indicator it's probably an airborne somepin LMAO.
Printed out my BLOCK instructions for THE NOVEL. And read a blog by a woman who entertained the hell out of me. I do better with "telling it like it is" than "shine me on, sugar". She was brutal. And truthful. And I was snickering halfway through. There are too many self-important people in publishing, I'm sure. And I'm confident, but I'm not stupid. I'm just an instrument. It's the words, my friends. Always the words. As long as they come, in whatever form, I'm fine.
Grins*

Fell off the Blog Wagon

Where did this weekend go? (Looking around and seeing NOTHING) I remember waking up on Saturday. Left the house early. Next thing I know it's Sunday evening. Watched the Packers EKE out a win. WHEW! I was sweating that one. And now it's Monday, and I was having blogging withdrawals. So, here I am. Have one child home sick. Loads of cookie fixings in my kitchen. And yet... I'm just not up for it right now. I think I left my arse somewhere Saturday. That's the only logical explanation.
Some cable channel was showing "Fellowship of the Rings" this weekend. I watched that again. That's only the second time I've watched it. And it was GREAT! Several things I didn't notice the first time, I GOT the second time. Really, really wonderful.
It's Monday...and what does that mean? That means about three hours of homework. If I type "Joy", will everyone get the sarcasm dripping from the letters? Show of hands please................kay.
JOY!
Grins*

In search of the perfect gift

Well then. Decided to do some on-line window shopping before the big expedition tomorrow and saturday. The Internet is a lovely thing. Finding 1170 matches for one item is not. I think I'm in denial. It's like pulling the thread on the bottom of the sweater, and ending up with a big pile of cotton. NOT a good thing. I am going to seek out a pain reliever for my aching head and get back at it. A friend suggested gift cards. I'm just not well with that yet. Give me a couple of years. When the kids are all teenagers, I'm sure this will get easier. Or maybe I'm just kidding myself. Hell, it sounded good LMAO.
Grins*

Is it Friday yet?

Lord, I am READY for the weekend. Do some Christmas shopping. Loads of wrapping. Give the children some money and let them do some shopping. Ought to be um... interesting. I'm taking them ONE AT A TIME and shopping for the rest. So. Four trips. With pre-teen children. On a weekend. I really AM short-sighted :)~~
Literary life is great. I feel as though I'm really getting somewhere. I just need to SLOW DOWN. LMAO. This isn't my strength. So, I'm working against my grain in that aspect, but I know it will be so worth it. The picture is clearer, and I'm so thankful for my Goblin Sisters and their wisdom.
I have about one more hour before the kitchen will take up the rest of my night. Couple dozen drumsticks, two pans of potatoes, and five pounds of hamburger meat for tacos. The hamburger meat is for tomorrow. But HEY! I ain't cooking. I've already decided that one. I'll devote more time to THE NOVEL tomorrow.
Also... a little known fact. There could be a test later.(GGG) I write best when listening to music. Usually pop on Sirius 80's or 90's. I'm jamming right now.
Grins*

I got it!

Oh my! This one was a long time coming LMAO. I'm finally beginning to understand this whole character thing. (Getting on my knees and giving thanks) :)~~
So. Now I have the lead, the romantic involvement, the opposition, and the confidant. Therein lies my five threads. I'm just dancing here. When it all comes together, I'm just euphoric. So. Then. Ahem. LMAO
I think I've gushed long enough. When my mentor has time, I'm going to ask her to help me post pictures of my people. YAY!
Now...it's time to block and such. That is my assignment for myself tomorrow. To go over it until I've got that, too.
Hopefully, it'll come.

Grins*

The 5 People You Meet in Heaven

Okay. Let's start with this. I hate to cry. Loathe it actually. It's uncomfortable. Not aesthetically pleasing. Irritating. But I HAD to see this movie. And I did...with a box of tissues and nasal spray by my side. And they both got a workout. I was crying during every commerical break, but I can honestly say this ranks in the top five of the best movies I've ever seen. I mean WOW!
So this book is now on my Christmas wish list with a big, gold star (G).
I'm not going to wax too philosophical, but I will jot down a couple of thoughts.
I believe we are where we are right now for a reason. Everything has purpose. Everyone has a place. You meet the people in your life for a reason. You will touch them, and they will touch you in ways right now you can't even comprehend. Every life has value. Every soul a place. Embrace what you have. And rejoice in your life.
Grins*

Block Party

It's Sunday! A day of Packers football. Oh. And. Um...the beginning blocking of THE NOVEL (GGG). I've printed out the sheet, and I'm looking it over. However, it doesn't come with the book, "Blocking for Dummies," so I may have to enlist some help. I'll see if I can figure it out.
I'm going to rent PPV "Van Helsing" at noon. Any excuse for Hugh Jackman. Purrr.
The good news being EVERYONE will be gone next week. BWAHAHAHAHAHAHA. This translates into...There will be NO knocking on my door every ten minutes. Friday is a BIG shopping day. It'll be a nice break. (smacking myself in the forehead after reading what I just wrote) Obviously I need professional help. :)~~
It WILL be a good day to get out of the house though. Breathe some fresh air. Remember what sunshine looks and feels like. It's been awhile LMAO.
Grins*

Thank you!

First, I would like to thank all the people with their heartfelt congratulations. But especially my lovely Goblin Sisters who manage to put up with me LMAO. It means a LOT.
I'll be working on pieces of THE NOVEL this weekend. I've got a little checklist around here somewhere The Witch sent. I'm such a BAD researcher. I like to get in, get the facts, and get on with my life. I envy Joely the ability to dive in and love every minute of it. SIGH I'm more the kicking, screaming type :)~~
I'm looking forward to getting my character sheets back and tweaking them to a higher level. Hopefully, not TOO much tweaking though LMAO. OYE!
I'm off to research. I'm leaving a trail of breadcrumbs.
Grins*

Horoscopic Intervention

Just as all the fun things in your life seem like they are going to be cancelled, lightening strikes and excitement is back in the picture. It’s not what you expected, however, for you must take what others are saying more seriously. After all, you can see that it’s not all about instant gratification. There are things worth waiting for.

This is my horoscope for today. I think it says it quite nicely.

More later.

Grins*

Another Contract!!!

I am SO excited! I just signed another contract with Whiskey Creek Press. It's my second! WOOHOO! "Virtually Yours" will be out in October 2005. I'm too wound to attempt rest. I e-mailed all my important people and will inform the rest of my family tomorrow. Oh. And spread the news to the general population LMAO. I once asked a fellow author if a T-shirt would be tacky. She said "not at all".
So. Um. I wonder what color I should go with. LMAOOOOOOOOO

BIG BIG GRINS***

A writing workbook

Wow. They make writing workbooks. This flies in the face of everything I've ever known. I simply have to laugh for this reason...I NEVER KNEW!
In my lovely writing group, I am being exposed to all sorts of different ideas and processes. I must admit I love it. Anything to keep the gray matter synapsing along.
If I wanted to write. I wrote. All the characters were in my head. If it "clicked", I rocked right along with it. But...GASP!...there are worksheets. And notes. And theories. And...well, LOTS of stuff. It's a whole new side to something I dearly love. And apparently...there are a BUNCH of these books out there. (Shaking head and grinning) Hmm. What a world. So. I'm reading through my shiny new workbook and checking it all out. Fascinating. Utterly fascinating. They may have something here LMAO.
Grins*

Good thing I like Toby Keith

My middle daughter is going to drive me to drink. I just know it. :)~~ Queen of the Procrastinators. I've now just finished helping her with her Toby Keith report. You know...the one she knew about a MONTH AND A HALF AGO. And so, this evening was a pleasant one. She was on the bed scribbling madly while I dictated to her. God love her. She's so damn smart. And then she gets lazy. SIGH. So many more things to do than study. She had a picture published in an art book when she was five. Artistic is putting it mildly. She'd rather draw than anything. And she's good. But...she's got a mind like a steel trap. Hears a song once and knows the words. We go over her homework, and she can repeat what I've said almost verbatim. It's the GETTING THERE that is giving me more gray hairs LMAO. Hmm. Looking back. I'll have to devote another blog to the other children. SIGH. The world of checks and balances. But this one is for you, sugar. Now pass Mama the tequila. :)~~
Grins*

My profession...a RANT

Okay then. I write. It's what I do. What I live for. What I love. However, today I was told that my writing profession translated into...I DO NOTHING. Yes, in CAPS. At least that's what it sounded like coming out. I just play on the computer. Whiling away my day tapping on the keyboard and doing a big bunch of nothing.
Okay...I'm pissed. I'm not glossing this over. It hurt. And LORD, it made me mad. So. I offer this:
Writing is a noble profession. At times, thankless. Not readily understood. Abstract and not easily defined or seen. Not measured by traditional means and methods. But joyful. Necessary to my soul. I may not bring in six figures...right NOW...but don't count me out. My writing is my purpose. My calling. I don't put down what you do, and don't you EVER AGAIN put down what I do.
How easy it is to criticize what we don't understand and which means so little to us. Open up your mind. Not everything is measured in dollars and cents. My work is measured in feelings. Emotions. Purpose. This is my LIFE. Accept it. And if you can't do that...then shut up (GGG)
Grins*

Post-traumatic Turkey Day

The ironic thing is...we had meatloaf LMAO. It is COLD here. Getting more wood delivered today. Catching up on e-mails and such. I sent my character sheets into Janie. Oh LORD! I am hoping they are good to go. I'm such an all or nothing individual. They looked good. I proofed them. Off they went.
Now...in the Winter of my discontent...I'm hoping I wasn't a wee bit premature. Hindsight..Meet foresight. Okay. Enough of that.
I've got lists coming out my ears. I LOVE lists. Have papers and pens scattered throughout the house that way if something pops up...I can write it down THEN.
Christmas lists. Grocery lists. Present lists. Bill lists. Oh. Not to mention mental lists. I've got lots of those. That running litany in one's mind which tells them what needs to be done, what they have done, and what is to be done next. Comforting actually. Keeps the gears working overtime and not time for dust to settle. Going to enjoy my Sunday.
Grins*

I am SO excited!!!

Yay! I have my character sheets done. Once again, I have tried to overcomplicate things. Sheesh. I don't know how I manage sometimes. Really (GGG)
So. I sent them to my writing buddy and will await the results. ALSO!!! I have finally found my models for my characters. I will post them sometime in the future. It has been a banner day, people. Believe me.
I feel GOOD. And I absolutely love that. So. I'm going to breathe easy for the rest of the evening. Think about my characters some more. Ponder their world and foibles.
Grins*

The day after...

Ah. 'Tis officially Christmas season now, folks. What IS it about this time of year that turns most of us (oh, yes...ME)into raving loonies? I have book homework which I will work on today. But...I also have this insatiable desire to clean my house from top to bottom and make it all pretty. Utter insanity, I'm telling you. Kids are home. They will be my little cleaning minions for as long as I can keep the bluff on. And I have playstation for leverage LMAO.
So. Hmm. Putting up the tree Sunday. Before football, of course. Hehehe
Converting the house from Fall to Winter. Thanksgiving to Christmas. Small slice of madness to total lunacy. It's good to have goals.
I've decided to do a Christmas letter this year. I wrote one about two years ago and everyone loved it. Think I'll give it another try this year. Title? "Ramblings from a Madwoman" LMAO. Okay. Okay. Probably not, though that one REALLY calls to me :)~~
Grins*

A slight miscalculation

Well. Then. Ahem. Didn't get as much done today as I hoped to. That would be loosely translated into, "Today was busier than nine kinds of hell, and I didn't do any writing." SIGH
Had to run to town. Mix-up with the basketball times. Started an hour earlier. Had to cut short cheerleading camp for two children so I could be there for the other two's basketball game. Which they BOTH won! WOOHOO!
Adopted Tiny Tim out to a new home. She was the runt of the litter. Now, I have one more. Batcat. Hereby named 'cause them ears are just a TAD bit too big for that cute, little head. He's going to a new home tomorrow. Thought about keeping him, but we don't need another cat. Need and want. Two utterly different entities.
I hope all my Goblin sisters have a lovely, safe Thanksgiving. Tonight was kind of quiet. Methinks many are on the road or otherwise occupied. We're going to take it easy and shout instructions at the television during the football games. Oh. AND... Packers are tied again for first in division. They just need to beat the Vikings. AGAIN! (crossing fingers) Oh PLEASE!!!
Grins*

I'm baaaaaaaack

Well. Here I am. It's been ONE LONG weekend. But I'm finally back. And just in time for a two day week of school for the kids. Worked on my character sheets. Premise. Themes. I did what I was supposed to. WOOHOO! Tomorrow, when my ass isn't dragging quite so far down...I will put it all together. I still owe an essay. But I have some points already written down.
So. That is GOOD news. I'll work on it tomorrow. LOTS.
Short blog. TIRED!! Took us seven hours to get back. I'm still waiting for my arse to catch up. UGH.
More tomorrow. After some rest.
Grins*

MIA

I have plans this weekend so I will be MIA until Sunday evening or Monday morning. I'm working on my vision for "Matchmaker." Lots of stuff to do and write. That should keep me preoccupied. Okay, busier than hell LOL.
I need to dig a little deeper on a couple of things and really bring them out. Kids are excited about next week being a TWO DAY week. Thanksgiving and all. Joely, I need the gun (GGGG). Help a sister out :)~~
It's cold here. Might snow Monday or Tuesday. My ear infection has gotten worse. I'll be trotting off to the Doctors next week. UGH. So. To sum it up... I'm in pain. Kids will be home ALL next week. I have plans this weekend to do stuff I will TOLERATE. Janie is sick. Fredericka said she is leaving.
I need some more Diet Pepsi. Maybe an IV. SIGH
Trying to muster a grin and just can't
*******

Voices in my head

Okay. Where to start? Let's see. First of all, I got in bed around ten-thirty. But, lo and behold, I could NOT sleep. Hmm. What's a writer to do? Well. This one got up and opened her handy, dandy notebook and started listing static traits and oxymorons. Janie. If you don't get OUT OF MY HEAD...I'm going to charge rent LMAO.
Also. I am one DEEP WELL of static traits. And wear a lifejacket, kiddies. The water is deep and there be weird things swimming around in there.
So now, it's almost six in the morning. I've been awake since four, and I am raring to go. It's a sickness I tell you :)~~
Here's some of my favorite oxymorons. Keep in mind, I'm sleep-deprived.
Lobotomized genius...Brilliant idiot...Charitable miser...Capable klutz...Friendly enemy...Shy adventurer...Lovable loser. And static traits? Let's see. Robert off of "Everybody Loves Raymond" touches his silverware to his chin before he takes a bite. I had a friend in high school who would only use a straw to drink and never after anybody else. I have one more, but it escapes me.
Okay. I'm going to work on my character sheets. FOCUS! And I'll check back in later, when the Diet Pepsi has made more of an impact.
Grins*

My horoscope for the day

Sometimes you can seem disconnected from reality, but others don't usually know how far out you really are. Now, as the Moon moves through your sign, you can surprise them, but not with how weird you are. You can be the hero by finding a solution to a problem that others couldn't solve. Don't hold yourself back. Think big and original ideas that work will come to you.

LMAO!!! This is my horoscope for today. It rather fits. Spooky, that. And for the record...the first sentence is WAY TOO ACCURATE. Hehehe.

Grins*
Oh. And I have EVERY animal I have inside. I'm having an architect draw up plans for our Ark. It WON'T QUIT RAINING!

Plotting is such sweet sorrow...

Yesterday was blissful. I wrote all day. Didn't leave the house. Course, I was brain dead, but what a payoff! LMAO
Just have to say...I am SO proud of my Goblin Sisters! I was beginning to think we were never going to get it. Then...what should appear? But a bunch of e-mails about static traits!!! Christmas has come early, folks :)~~
Today will not be AS productive, but I'll fit the writing in. I must go to town again. I don't know WHY the dogs and cats have to have food. I told them to just graze like goats, but all I got for my trouble was stony stares. Therefore, I must run to Wally World and find them sustenance.
I am going to come back home and check out the back of my dvd's. Get some ideas about how to break down my plot. I have flashes of scenes, which I write down, but I need the vertebrae. So there. It's on my to-do list.
Grins*

The living hell known as static trait world

SIGH
Okay. I'm gonna make it. Really. I'm hanging onto my last two brain cells and rubbing them together later for one, last synapse.
It's amazing how quickly a story can pour out of you, and yet, you can't think of two, measley static traits. Boggles the mind. The one I had this morning LMAO.
I'm working on my MATCHMAKER series, Janie. Really. No more slapping WOMAN! Hehehe
So. I believe I need to cosy up to my lovely notebook and figure this bad boy out. Actually. I've got the ideas for the first two books. The third is giving me fits. We'll see.
Tired grins*

Brand new day

Well. Then. Let's begin again, shall we? I've started early today. Actually stayed up after kids went to school. Got writing plans. Have already warned the children HOW IT IS GOING TO BE this week LMAO. I really do believe "Mama" is the most overused word in the English language. But I'm much better now :)~~
Michelle and Janie...I have not laughed so hard in quite some time. I just finished reading Michelle's response to her blog and my blog. BWHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
Janie. You are WICKED. It's why we love you so.
Now. Here we go with plans for today. I'm writing a teaser for my time-travel contemporary. Writing on "The Portrait". Figuring out my dang static traits for THE NOVEL. I'm sure I can fit the two I posted to the group in there and make them work. But I'm still waiting for that moment of instant clarity. Them waters are still a tad bit murky here. The good news being, once I GET IT, I GOT IT LMAO.
I'm working on FOCUS today. I like to keep my e-mails up and switch back and forth between writing and feeding my e-mail addiction. Not today, folks. I will actually shut down the internet to write and take periodic breaks to check my e-mail. One small step for FOCUS, one big step for my writing.
Grins*

Call me cranky

Because I am. And then some. For those with delicate sensibilities...just skip this entry. Cause it's about to be ON!!!!
I have a killer sinus infection. I won't go into details, but let me assure one and all I have had exactly three breaths out of my right nostril all week. Everything else is plugged up. That has led to one LONG, SEVERE, sinus headache. For approximately ten days. Then, just as I got back from town AGAIN (which I LOATHE), seems two of my chickens were at Cheerleading Camp. Shit. So. I rush out of the driveway, cause somehow I forgot to write it on my calendar....and I'm STILL late. I've had to go to the bathroom now for about thirty minutes by the time I pull BACK into the driveway.
Then there's dinner to be made. Biscuits and gravy. Scrambled eggs. My kitchen looks like every damn pot I own has decided to come out and play. I'm ate up. Just foul as a chicken. And I don't really care. There are days when I just want to say "WHAT ABOUT ME?" Is it too much? Apparently. Because then that damn "Mama" gene kicks in, and I simmer down.
However. And this is the one PERK to my day. I bought myself something. Hehehe. This is such a rarity, I had to note it. Brand new pen and pencil set. PRETTY! Deep ruby and silver filigree on the tops. Maybe I'll live after all :)~~
Grins*

Just another manic Monday

It's Monday afternoon. And what's that I hear? NOTHING! BWAHAHAHAHAHA
Kids are at school. Course...that just means I'll have two hours of homework later.
I just realized something this morning as I was working on "The Portrait." I have no chapter markings. LMAO. Yep. Started out as a short story, and I just kept on rocking. Repeate. NO CHAPTER MARKINGS. Sheesh. I must go back and figure out where to break it up.
I am however, starving. As I slept late. Which comes after a night of not being able to sleep at all. So. I shall mosey (i.e. travel down to a drive-through in my Kermie slipper) to find some food. More later.
Grins*

Packers WIN!!!--tied for lead in division

WOOHOO! My boys won! Oh yes , s'all good. I've worked on "The Portrait" a little. Kind of hard when the chickens come in and out of the room. Tap..Tap...Tap....Tap
AAARRRRRRGGHHHHH
Therefore, not much was accomplished. However, and thank the good Lord for this one, tomorrow is MONDAY. I have writing plans. Lots of them. I have um.....X amount of words on "The Portrait"
(furtively looking for Janie and laughing. I hate to be thwacked a good one.
It's falling into place rather well. I'm enjoying writing it. Sophie is good stuff. Smart. Witty. Capable of taking care of herself.
Dylan is steady. Private. Very deep. Interesting.
They wait for me. To guide them. To speak for them. To give them life.
And I love it.
Grins,
Crystal*

Got wood?

I do!!!! Had a rick of pecan delivered this morning. Ooooooooooooo wood. It's the small things, huh?
Love the smell of wood burning and football playing. Packers at three. So I must get my head around what I'll be doing with my writing this morning. I need to work on "The Portrait." Think on my characters from THE NOVEL. Write a line or two on my thriller.
I'm thinking on my short story submission at Writer's Digest. That will percolate in the back of my mind at least three times a week until I know how it all shakes out.
Been quiet with my Goblin Sisters. WAY TOO QUIET!!! LMAO I'm used to several posts a day. We must all have busy weekends. I miss them when we're not posting. I'll finish this, read their blogs, and rock on with my writing.
GO PACKERS!!!!!!! BEAT THE VIKINGS!!!!!
Grins*

What herb am I?

Hmm. Before I knew the choices, I would have said cayenne. That's an herb, right? Spicy. Red. Burn the living sh** out of you. Hehehe.
But alas...I am Rosemary. I thought perhaps Mandrake. Since that's the herb that in large doses will drive you insane. I'll put it on my to-do list. Aim high, I alway say LMAO.
Grins*

Deja vu...

Well. Good grief. Went to town again today. I believe that's a new record. I go as little as possible. Too many people. And yes...my lovelies...it's that time again. CHRISTMAS. I double-checked just to make sure LMAO. About six weeks from now. Good Lord. Took all the kids. Just shows how masochistic I can be. You know that moment? The one, when if you get one more thing shoved in your face, you'll absolutely freak out and act like a loon? Yeah . Heads turned, let me tell you.
But it was a good day. Ran into a guy I've known since 7th grade. Um........(unspecified) years ago. He was such a good writer. I LOVED to read his stories. He wrote horror. Spooky. Scary. Boogeyman type stuff. I told him I was being published. He was happy for me. Hugged me. But I could see it bothered him.
You see...it was his dream too. It's moments like that which make me realize how hard we have to work to pursue our dreams. Relentlessly. Passionately. Faithfully.
It was a look at a future I didn't want to have. The "I could have" look.
"I could have been a famous author."
"I could have written what I loved to write."
Screw "could have". I'm going to :)~~~
Grins*

It's Five O'Clock Somewhere

Dang. What a LONG day. Took care of business in town. Mailed off my short, short story. And wondered where in the world this year has gone. Wasn't I just buying Valentines and Easter bunnies yesterday? I almost stroked out. Had to ask an old lady for a hit of oxygen. Fortunately for me, she was in the giving mood .
Christmas has arrived. Not for over a month on the calendar, but man, OH MAN, them retail stores are tearing it up. Halloween candy and assorted goodies are already half off. I'm thinking....forget that. Save them for six months and put them out again.
I know the world is spinning faster and faster....but someone hand me the dramamine and slow this ride down. I'm taking Sunday off this weekend. Working on my book(s). Watching a little football. And yes, dammit...maybe doing a little introspection. I know what Christmas is about. And it's not at Wal-Mart. It's in my living room arguing right now over the Playstation.
Grins*

Back again

Ooh, la la. I'm back again . I think it's overcompensation for not being to do my all tomorrow. I've worked on my short story-gone-long some more. Also going to turn in a short story to Writer's Digest Annual Short Short Story Competition. I've had it written for months. Just feels like the right time to submit it. I'm working on honing my stories. Nipping here. Tucking there. I waffled back and forth between "The Portrait", my mystery, and working on characters for THE NOVEL. I feel like I've accomplished quite a bit today. It's a good feeling. Got rid of another kitten, too. That's ALSO good news. Little furball heathens .
I can already feel the insomnia creep up. Didn't go to sleep last night until around two a.m. Can't do that tonight, or my heiney will be dragging behind me tomorrow. Got too much stuff to do.
Hm. Story of my life LMAO.
Grins*

A little bit of this, a little bit of that

There were tornadoes here yesterday! Around 11, I believe. Can you imagine? And today is so dang cold, Jack Frost won't even come out and play. Oklahoma weather. Go figure.
I've been working on my short story gone long, posting mail to my literary sisters, and working on THE MANUSCRIPT. I like that. All caps. It IS that important to me. FOCUS!!!!!
Also, as I jump randomly from one subject to the next, one kitten down, six to go. I WILL overnite them. Just leave a message LOL.
I won't get a whole lot done tomorrow. It's my running around day. Off to town to pick up necessities and make sure my clan will make it through the weekend. Have lunch with Mom. She's been on my mind lately. Makes me wonder what's been going on. Just a feeling.
I told myself I would write
But only if I get it right
Chrys*

Getting to work

Okay. It's Friday. I MUST focus on one of my short stories. I came to a fork in the road yesterday and took a wrong tine. Therefore, I will be backpedaling a page or two. I was aiming for a short story, but my mentor suggested a whole novel. We shall see :)~~
I also need to work on character sheets for my masterpiece--to date LOL. Shouldn't it be easier? A flick of the pen? I suppose all the struggle will make the results that much sweeter. And to be honest....the road traveled kind of rocks, too. LMAO
Grins*S