Beth C. is BAD. I believe I've stated this before. She KNOWS that if there is a link in her post, I must click. And I did. I'm link weak. *grinning*
So, courtesy of Beth C., http://charmed_author.bravejournal.com/, here's more than you ever wanted to know about me.
Of rare beauty, knows how to adapt, likes luxury, of good health not in the least shy, tends to look down on others, self-confident, determined, impatient, wants to impress others, many talents, industrious, healthy, optimism, waiting for the one true love, able to make quick decisions.
My Life path number is 3.
Typically, the life path 3 gives an above-average ability in some art form. This can encompass painting, interior decorating, landscaping, crafts, writing, music, or the stage, or all of the above. You are apt to be a happy, inspired person, constantly seeking the stimuli of similar people. Your exuberant nature can take you far, especially if you are ever able to focus your energies and talents.
Check out this link! http://www.paulsadowski.com/birthday.asp
Heh...as I continue the madness.
It's the birthday calculator. It gives you your life path number and the link.
Grins*
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Plans
Let's see.
Yesterday we ripped the bathroom floor down to the floorboards. Took the toilet and the sink out. So, I was a little busy. And I didn't even really have the HARD work. Today is laundry and clean-up.
I need to write. It's simple. Basic. NECESSARY. I need to write. I'm doing the hacking on my FG book. No problem. The grieving phase has passed.
I'll get to hacking a little later on. Friday is shopping. Saturday--NEED to write more. Sunday is a birthday party. Monday-another party. I see massive amounts of food in my future. LMAO
Why do holidays revolve around food? Good grief! It's not right. Seriously.
Kids are out in the pool. I'm waiting for my clothes to wash so I can take them to town and dry them.
I'm not brushing my hair, shaving my legs, or giving a damn. Naturally, I'll run into people I've known forever and will be embarrassed beyond all recognition. Odds are.
I'll check back in, time permitting, after I excise portions of my manuscript.
Grins*
Yesterday we ripped the bathroom floor down to the floorboards. Took the toilet and the sink out. So, I was a little busy. And I didn't even really have the HARD work. Today is laundry and clean-up.
I need to write. It's simple. Basic. NECESSARY. I need to write. I'm doing the hacking on my FG book. No problem. The grieving phase has passed.
I'll get to hacking a little later on. Friday is shopping. Saturday--NEED to write more. Sunday is a birthday party. Monday-another party. I see massive amounts of food in my future. LMAO
Why do holidays revolve around food? Good grief! It's not right. Seriously.
Kids are out in the pool. I'm waiting for my clothes to wash so I can take them to town and dry them.
I'm not brushing my hair, shaving my legs, or giving a damn. Naturally, I'll run into people I've known forever and will be embarrassed beyond all recognition. Odds are.
I'll check back in, time permitting, after I excise portions of my manuscript.
Grins*
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
STILL haven't done it
I'm putting it off. I know. I know. It's not healthy. It's not right. And I should just suck it up and DO IT!
That's right. I'm talking about cutting out the paranormal parts of my book set. *SIGH*
It's just so damn hard. I've NEVER cut that much of a story. So, I'm avoiding it like the plague. I am weak, I tell ya. Weak.
But then...my lovely CP told me to think about giving the paranormal parts a book of their own. Did I tell ya I just adore her? I do. She's sharp. And funny. And thank God we're doing all right. *grins*
What am I working on?
I'm working on an erotic romance short story for another anthology. Whiskey Creek Press Torrid line will be putting one out every season next year. That story is not in the least bit pressing compared to everything else I have on my plate. Plus I'm already 2000 words in, and I know what I have going on. There's at least two more contemporaries that I'm playing with. One already has 20,000 words. I need to buckle down and do something!
Okay. Okay. *breathing* I need to be strong. I need to get the job done. And I will.
Tomorrow.
Grins*
That's right. I'm talking about cutting out the paranormal parts of my book set. *SIGH*
It's just so damn hard. I've NEVER cut that much of a story. So, I'm avoiding it like the plague. I am weak, I tell ya. Weak.
But then...my lovely CP told me to think about giving the paranormal parts a book of their own. Did I tell ya I just adore her? I do. She's sharp. And funny. And thank God we're doing all right. *grins*
What am I working on?
I'm working on an erotic romance short story for another anthology. Whiskey Creek Press Torrid line will be putting one out every season next year. That story is not in the least bit pressing compared to everything else I have on my plate. Plus I'm already 2000 words in, and I know what I have going on. There's at least two more contemporaries that I'm playing with. One already has 20,000 words. I need to buckle down and do something!
Okay. Okay. *breathing* I need to be strong. I need to get the job done. And I will.
Tomorrow.
Grins*
Monday, June 27, 2005
One of THOSE days
The day started out nice enough. I edited my two short stories for the Whiskey Creek Press "Love Anthology." All was well. I emailed back and forth to one of the editors. Extremely pleasant.
And then the day went straight to hell.
We ordered a heating element for our dryer. The dryer WILL NOT heat and we have laundry galore. It's actually risky to go hang clothes out because there have been copperheads spotted back there. *shuddering* Can I get a HELL NO?
Well, apparently it wasn't the heating element. Seventy *&^#^$#*&#^ dollars later, I suppose not.
Then began the lovely phone calls. I called Whirpool. They were very nice but not helpful in the least. They said to call Lowe's because that's where we purchased the extended plan. Okay. Did I tell you I was on hold for twenty minutes on my CELL phone because I was downloading something important on my computer? I didn't? Well, I flippin' was. Then I called Lowe's and got a hold of the manager. He was also nice. He told me that I would have to call the &^%##$% 800 number to schedule a service person visit. I didn't have to wait long to talk to him.
Then I called the number for the Lowe's service people. Did I tell you I was STILL on my cell phone and in the middle of the 100 degree heat because you can't get reception for shit inside my house? I didn't? Well, I was.
Another twenty minute wait. But it gets better. After actually getting a hold of somebody, I was informed that they hired out the services. Yeah. Another number. Lowe's didn't handle anything like that anymore. I had to call GE. I asked if the number was easy to remember because up until that time, I was memorizing the numbers these people gave to me. Needless to say, I had to run back inside and jot that one down. I was scared to death reception would cut out and I would have to harm somebody.
Then I called the GE number. Another fifteen minute wait while I pressed several numbers and spoke my information into the receiver. Joy of all joys. And then you know what? I was told by the lovely automated voice that I would be contacted within 24 hours by ANOTHER person. The actual person who will somehow fit me into their busy schedule so I can have some &^%#^%#$ dry clothes. No real person ever talked to me. Looking back, that's probably a good thing. I now have a headache, and I'm sure my blood pressure hasn't quite dropped down to normal yet.
I know for a fact that this person probably won't fit me into their schedule this week. THAT pisses me off. And I'm hoping that they somehow won't call until tomorrow so I don't totally rip them a new arse. Because someone, my friend, has to pay.
Crystal*
And then the day went straight to hell.
We ordered a heating element for our dryer. The dryer WILL NOT heat and we have laundry galore. It's actually risky to go hang clothes out because there have been copperheads spotted back there. *shuddering* Can I get a HELL NO?
Well, apparently it wasn't the heating element. Seventy *&^#^$#*&#^ dollars later, I suppose not.
Then began the lovely phone calls. I called Whirpool. They were very nice but not helpful in the least. They said to call Lowe's because that's where we purchased the extended plan. Okay. Did I tell you I was on hold for twenty minutes on my CELL phone because I was downloading something important on my computer? I didn't? Well, I flippin' was. Then I called Lowe's and got a hold of the manager. He was also nice. He told me that I would have to call the &^%##$% 800 number to schedule a service person visit. I didn't have to wait long to talk to him.
Then I called the number for the Lowe's service people. Did I tell you I was STILL on my cell phone and in the middle of the 100 degree heat because you can't get reception for shit inside my house? I didn't? Well, I was.
Another twenty minute wait. But it gets better. After actually getting a hold of somebody, I was informed that they hired out the services. Yeah. Another number. Lowe's didn't handle anything like that anymore. I had to call GE. I asked if the number was easy to remember because up until that time, I was memorizing the numbers these people gave to me. Needless to say, I had to run back inside and jot that one down. I was scared to death reception would cut out and I would have to harm somebody.
Then I called the GE number. Another fifteen minute wait while I pressed several numbers and spoke my information into the receiver. Joy of all joys. And then you know what? I was told by the lovely automated voice that I would be contacted within 24 hours by ANOTHER person. The actual person who will somehow fit me into their busy schedule so I can have some &^%#^%#$ dry clothes. No real person ever talked to me. Looking back, that's probably a good thing. I now have a headache, and I'm sure my blood pressure hasn't quite dropped down to normal yet.
I know for a fact that this person probably won't fit me into their schedule this week. THAT pisses me off. And I'm hoping that they somehow won't call until tomorrow so I don't totally rip them a new arse. Because someone, my friend, has to pay.
Crystal*
Sunday, June 26, 2005
An Affair to Remember
I love this movie. Cary Grant. Deborah Kerr. SIGH
They were running it on AMC last night. And, of course, I had to watch it. It is easily in my top 5 movie list of all time.
THIS, to me, is romance at its finest. Aren't there some days when you might think, "Wow. They sure knew how to make them in the old days"?
Don't get me wrong. I like several contemporary romance movies. But none touch me like some of the old ones. There's a different feel to them. A depth that many modern-day movie romances lack.
Many modern-day romances are so busy trying to be snarky they forget the heart. I'll take both. And people running around half-naked and bedhopping? What in the blazes does that have to do with romance? If not done correctly, not much.
I love "The Mirror Has Two Faces" with Barbara Streisand and Jeff Bridges. LOVE IT. It also ranks in the top 5. If you have not seen it, rent it. It's well worth it.
What am I trying to say? That all the good stuff is old and nothing nowadays is worth a damn? No. I'm not. But there are times when I believe we need to step back and look at The Classics. We can learn from them. It doesn't have to be about mememe. Sometimes it's the giving that makes the getting worthwhile.
Grins*
They were running it on AMC last night. And, of course, I had to watch it. It is easily in my top 5 movie list of all time.
THIS, to me, is romance at its finest. Aren't there some days when you might think, "Wow. They sure knew how to make them in the old days"?
Don't get me wrong. I like several contemporary romance movies. But none touch me like some of the old ones. There's a different feel to them. A depth that many modern-day movie romances lack.
Many modern-day romances are so busy trying to be snarky they forget the heart. I'll take both. And people running around half-naked and bedhopping? What in the blazes does that have to do with romance? If not done correctly, not much.
I love "The Mirror Has Two Faces" with Barbara Streisand and Jeff Bridges. LOVE IT. It also ranks in the top 5. If you have not seen it, rent it. It's well worth it.
What am I trying to say? That all the good stuff is old and nothing nowadays is worth a damn? No. I'm not. But there are times when I believe we need to step back and look at The Classics. We can learn from them. It doesn't have to be about mememe. Sometimes it's the giving that makes the getting worthwhile.
Grins*
Saturday, June 25, 2005
If I had a brain, I'd play with it
Here is the link to the folks who did my banner. http://www.millenniumpromotion.com/services.html
They are WONDERFUL! And extremely reasonable. I'll probably advertise around the romance sites and such. I'll put it on my website. All that good stuff.
And yes, those are my beautimous chickens. Their birthdays are in October. The oldest will be 12. The middle will be 11. The baby will be 10. I think that was taken back in 1999 or 2000. We're BIG Packers fans. Heh
Grins*
They are WONDERFUL! And extremely reasonable. I'll probably advertise around the romance sites and such. I'll put it on my website. All that good stuff.
And yes, those are my beautimous chickens. Their birthdays are in October. The oldest will be 12. The middle will be 11. The baby will be 10. I think that was taken back in 1999 or 2000. We're BIG Packers fans. Heh
Grins*
My chickens
My banner
*&%$%*&%#
Yeah. That about sums it up. I have never second guessed myself on a novel, and here I am. And it irritates me. But I think I've finally gotten a hold of the problem and am ready to face it head on. With a little help from my trusty sidekick, Diet Pepsi, of course.
I'm cutting out the paranormal angle completely. I find myself having to insert it when I don't want to have to work at it. I've obviously been spoiled. Usually the words flow from the brain and into the fingers. I'll have to go back and edit the parts that overlap in the manuscript. I'm only about 20,000 words in, so I suppose I'll live. And taking the paranormal parts out actually makes my heroine stronger. She's a fierce heifer anyway, but this gives her more.
I decided that if I want to see any of the clothes I USED to wear, I must begin to exercise again. Therefore, I ordered a tae-bo tape and did it yesterday. Can I just tell everyone that Billy Blanks utterly kicks my ass? But I love it. I feel like I'm doing a little ass-kicking of my own when the DVD is on. All that kicking and punching. WOO! I loves it.
And...for an utterly fun flashback...some TV channel was playing "Moonlighting" the other night. I LOVED "Moonlighting." I'm serious. I had the flipping soundtrack. I kept the TV covers. May have to do with the fact that my birthday is the same is Cybil Shepards, and I thought she rocked. A beautiful, black evening gown with orange day-glo tennies? Yeah. I'd do that. ANYWAY...it was the "Taming of the Shrew" episode.
First, I LOVE that story. LOVE IT. Second, I HAD to watch it. I let out a very girly squeal when I saw what was on. (This, in itself, is rare) I watched it and then checked the tv guide thing for what year it was released. 1986. Yeah. That's right. Nineteen freaking eighty-six. Almost TWENTY years ago.
Hello. That's a generation. That's two freaking decades. That is SEVEN years before my first child was born. I was like a sophomore in high school. And yes, if you couldn't already tell, I was stunned.
Wait a minute! I'm only 33. That's not old. Hell. That's not even halfway old. I was doing mental math for five minutes and freaking myself out. Once again-OCD and numbers DO NOT MIX.
And just when I thought I calmed down, insomnia struck. Then I had to watch VH1's "100 Greatest Kid Stars." (Yeah. Had to. *snickering*)
Do you know how OLD most of them are now?
In their thirties. They have kids of their own. I must have watched all four hours of it (until two o'clock last night) with my jaw scraping the floor.
The little boy off "Roseanne" has two kids. Candace Cameron has a couple of kids. Hell, MY kids watch "Full House" like little addicts. They don't miss an episode. Tina Yothers off of "Family Ties"? She's in a freaking rock band. Black hair and piercings.
I honestly don't know if the show was a trip down memory lane or just a trip. *making mental note to block VH1 before I have to have therapy*
Grins*
I'm cutting out the paranormal angle completely. I find myself having to insert it when I don't want to have to work at it. I've obviously been spoiled. Usually the words flow from the brain and into the fingers. I'll have to go back and edit the parts that overlap in the manuscript. I'm only about 20,000 words in, so I suppose I'll live. And taking the paranormal parts out actually makes my heroine stronger. She's a fierce heifer anyway, but this gives her more.
I decided that if I want to see any of the clothes I USED to wear, I must begin to exercise again. Therefore, I ordered a tae-bo tape and did it yesterday. Can I just tell everyone that Billy Blanks utterly kicks my ass? But I love it. I feel like I'm doing a little ass-kicking of my own when the DVD is on. All that kicking and punching. WOO! I loves it.
And...for an utterly fun flashback...some TV channel was playing "Moonlighting" the other night. I LOVED "Moonlighting." I'm serious. I had the flipping soundtrack. I kept the TV covers. May have to do with the fact that my birthday is the same is Cybil Shepards, and I thought she rocked. A beautiful, black evening gown with orange day-glo tennies? Yeah. I'd do that. ANYWAY...it was the "Taming of the Shrew" episode.
First, I LOVE that story. LOVE IT. Second, I HAD to watch it. I let out a very girly squeal when I saw what was on. (This, in itself, is rare) I watched it and then checked the tv guide thing for what year it was released. 1986. Yeah. That's right. Nineteen freaking eighty-six. Almost TWENTY years ago.
Hello. That's a generation. That's two freaking decades. That is SEVEN years before my first child was born. I was like a sophomore in high school. And yes, if you couldn't already tell, I was stunned.
Wait a minute! I'm only 33. That's not old. Hell. That's not even halfway old. I was doing mental math for five minutes and freaking myself out. Once again-OCD and numbers DO NOT MIX.
And just when I thought I calmed down, insomnia struck. Then I had to watch VH1's "100 Greatest Kid Stars." (Yeah. Had to. *snickering*)
Do you know how OLD most of them are now?
In their thirties. They have kids of their own. I must have watched all four hours of it (until two o'clock last night) with my jaw scraping the floor.
The little boy off "Roseanne" has two kids. Candace Cameron has a couple of kids. Hell, MY kids watch "Full House" like little addicts. They don't miss an episode. Tina Yothers off of "Family Ties"? She's in a freaking rock band. Black hair and piercings.
I honestly don't know if the show was a trip down memory lane or just a trip. *making mental note to block VH1 before I have to have therapy*
Grins*
Friday, June 24, 2005
Master Plan
All right. Here it is. I'm playing hooky today. I've fulfilled my blogging and bloghopping responsibilities. And now, it's time to play.
I'm going to hop in the pool. And I'm going to bake myself. Any inhalation of Diet Pepsi and chocolate is simply a bonus.
I've finished my two blurbs for the "Love Anthology" from Whiskey Creek Press. Um. So I did SOME work today. *snickering* If you could call it that.
And later this evening, after I've pushed my hedonistic tendencies to the limit, I may open a document and get to tapping. Mebbe.
Have a great Friday!
Grins*
I'm going to hop in the pool. And I'm going to bake myself. Any inhalation of Diet Pepsi and chocolate is simply a bonus.
I've finished my two blurbs for the "Love Anthology" from Whiskey Creek Press. Um. So I did SOME work today. *snickering* If you could call it that.
And later this evening, after I've pushed my hedonistic tendencies to the limit, I may open a document and get to tapping. Mebbe.
Have a great Friday!
Grins*
Point of View-MINE
Point of view in any work is the author's call. I believe this. When we put pen to paper or finger to keyboard, we KNOW what person POV we want to use.
There is STILL a big discussion about headhopping. To me, headhopping is switching almost incessantly back and forth. Did John say that? No, I think it was Tina. THAT drives me up the wall.
But I ENJOY having both perspectives. I want to know what the hero is thinking, also. It doesn't make the work shallow for me, it adds depth. I'm sure we've all heard that Nora headhops. And that used to be BIG in the seventies/eighties. And now, editors and publishers are trying to narrow down the POV to one character. To this, I say bullsh*t. I've read quite a few bestsellers lately, and this hasn't changed. Sorry about that.
Chick Lit consistently stays in one person's head for the simple point that it's egocentric. I'm not saying bad. Do NOT send me emails. LMAO
I'm saying egocentric. It IS all about the character. And that's how it's marketed.
But romance? It's about two people. At the very heart, two people. And I like to know what ol' boy is thinking every once in awhile. God knows I can't read men's minds in the real world. Throw me a bone. *grinning* So will I change what I write to ONE person's point of view? No. I won't. I'll stick to my guns. And if you're opinion differs, that's fine. I respect that. But you won't change my mine.
Grins*
There is STILL a big discussion about headhopping. To me, headhopping is switching almost incessantly back and forth. Did John say that? No, I think it was Tina. THAT drives me up the wall.
But I ENJOY having both perspectives. I want to know what the hero is thinking, also. It doesn't make the work shallow for me, it adds depth. I'm sure we've all heard that Nora headhops. And that used to be BIG in the seventies/eighties. And now, editors and publishers are trying to narrow down the POV to one character. To this, I say bullsh*t. I've read quite a few bestsellers lately, and this hasn't changed. Sorry about that.
Chick Lit consistently stays in one person's head for the simple point that it's egocentric. I'm not saying bad. Do NOT send me emails. LMAO
I'm saying egocentric. It IS all about the character. And that's how it's marketed.
But romance? It's about two people. At the very heart, two people. And I like to know what ol' boy is thinking every once in awhile. God knows I can't read men's minds in the real world. Throw me a bone. *grinning* So will I change what I write to ONE person's point of view? No. I won't. I'll stick to my guns. And if you're opinion differs, that's fine. I respect that. But you won't change my mine.
Grins*
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Have mercy
I am tore-up from the floor up. I will resume my regularly scheduled blogging on the morrow. And I'm sure, when I finally have two brain cells to rub together and my head isn't aching, I'll say something worth reading. For now...Beeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep.
Crystal*
Crystal*
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
You are NOT Bo or Luke Duke!
I decided today to run down to Texas and purchase lottery tickets. This isn't a merry jaunt, one hour roundtrip type thing. I'm on the road approximately 6 hours. But hey! Sometimes ya just gotta suck it up and roll the dice. *muttering* I'll be so glad when Oklahoma finally gets their lottery in place. ACK!
Let me also say that I have a very, very good friend is a truck driver, so M, this isn't about you.
What in the blue hell is WRONG with semi drivers? Well? I wanted to roll down my window and shout, "Dammit! You're not driving the fu**ing General Lee! You're driving a damn eighteen-wheeler. Get some damn sense! And get the hell off my bumper! You're so damn close I want you surgically removed." And what's the deal with driving RIGHT BESIDE ME? I KNOW I'm in your blind spot. Shit! That's why I'm trying to speed up. And yet you persist in playing chicken with me. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
There were two semis that just couldn't seem to understand that I wasn't their vehicular toy. I'd pass. They'd pass. Then flippin' construction for miles on end. One lane.
And let me say...I had my cruise control on. Almost the entire time. OMG.
But now I'm home. And after kissing the grass in my yard, I'm starting dinner and blogging. I'll get around to my bloghopping and commenting tomorrow.
Have a good one.
Grins*
Let me also say that I have a very, very good friend is a truck driver, so M, this isn't about you.
What in the blue hell is WRONG with semi drivers? Well? I wanted to roll down my window and shout, "Dammit! You're not driving the fu**ing General Lee! You're driving a damn eighteen-wheeler. Get some damn sense! And get the hell off my bumper! You're so damn close I want you surgically removed." And what's the deal with driving RIGHT BESIDE ME? I KNOW I'm in your blind spot. Shit! That's why I'm trying to speed up. And yet you persist in playing chicken with me. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
There were two semis that just couldn't seem to understand that I wasn't their vehicular toy. I'd pass. They'd pass. Then flippin' construction for miles on end. One lane.
And let me say...I had my cruise control on. Almost the entire time. OMG.
But now I'm home. And after kissing the grass in my yard, I'm starting dinner and blogging. I'll get around to my bloghopping and commenting tomorrow.
Have a good one.
Grins*
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Stop the madness!
Beth C. http://charmed_author.bravejournal.com/index.php is evil. In case y'all didn't know this, I thought I'd share. She blogged earlier about not working on her synopsis. Instead she's doing a billion other things. Unfortunately, I'm supposed to be writing two blurbs. BLURBS. Two paragraphs or so each. And what am I doing? Clicking on the link about woman's orgasms. Click on them. It's educational. And um...FUN. Heh
*shaking head sadly*
I've found another addictive blog.
Grins*
*shaking head sadly*
I've found another addictive blog.
Grins*
Books and banners
I had a banner made, but I haven't paid for it yet, so I don't feel like it would be appropriate to show it. I have to use Paypal. I've NEVER used Paypal. I sent an email to the artist explaining this and hopefully when they regain consciousness from laughing so hard, they can tell me. But the banner ROCKS!
I haven't done ANY writing today. We were up WAY too early taking a friend to the doctor. And I am BEAT. I haven't done my usual bloghopping around, and I will remedy that after this post. Even the kids are unusually quiet.
It's HOT here. Supposed to be in the mid-upper nineties for the next three or four days. *choke* *gasp* *wheeze*
I'm sure I have fourteen hundred things to do, but right now they can all fall to the wayside. Maybe I'll find my get-up-and-go tomorrow. *making a mental note*
Grins*
I haven't done ANY writing today. We were up WAY too early taking a friend to the doctor. And I am BEAT. I haven't done my usual bloghopping around, and I will remedy that after this post. Even the kids are unusually quiet.
It's HOT here. Supposed to be in the mid-upper nineties for the next three or four days. *choke* *gasp* *wheeze*
I'm sure I have fourteen hundred things to do, but right now they can all fall to the wayside. Maybe I'll find my get-up-and-go tomorrow. *making a mental note*
Grins*
Monday, June 20, 2005
Getting liquored up
*snickering*
Okay. Not really. But I am having one or two celebratory Smirnoff Twisted Green Apples. Yummy. I love green apple. I was the one addicted to the green apple jolly ranchers.
And what am I celebrating?
Two of my short stories are going to be in the Whiskey Creek Press "Love Anthology" coming out in February 2006. *doing happy author dance* That means I'll have two books coming out then. My other one, "Perfect Timing", is also due out February 2006. Ought to be quite a month. Oh. And I turn a year younger. Heh
On the literary front, I wrote about 2000 words today. And my characters are STILL not getting along. We had a moment of chemistry there, and then she kneed him in the nether regions. These two difficult people are making me nuts.
I think I'll medicate myself with another drink of green apple.
Grins*
Okay. Not really. But I am having one or two celebratory Smirnoff Twisted Green Apples. Yummy. I love green apple. I was the one addicted to the green apple jolly ranchers.
And what am I celebrating?
Two of my short stories are going to be in the Whiskey Creek Press "Love Anthology" coming out in February 2006. *doing happy author dance* That means I'll have two books coming out then. My other one, "Perfect Timing", is also due out February 2006. Ought to be quite a month. Oh. And I turn a year younger. Heh
On the literary front, I wrote about 2000 words today. And my characters are STILL not getting along. We had a moment of chemistry there, and then she kneed him in the nether regions. These two difficult people are making me nuts.
I think I'll medicate myself with another drink of green apple.
Grins*
Shallow reading
Before I ever put pen to paper or finger to keyboard, I was a reader. And I maintain that position throughout my writing career. I read. Actually, I inhale the written word.
When I read, I have great expectations. The words must be effective. They must take me away to where they live. Show me the sights. Engage my mind. And if they don't?
Then I shallow read.
Shallow reading to me means that I can read and have half my mind somewhere else. Sometimes this is the fault of the author. And sometimes, frequently, it's mine.
I read approximately seven books within two days time late last week. I read a Kay Hooper, a James Patterson, a J.D. Robb, a category romance, and the Nora "Key" trilogy.
And this is what I discovered. I was immersed in both the Hooper and the Patterson. Immersed. The kids were snarled at, the dishes were neglected, and I loved both books.
The category romance was intermittent. I would read it sometimes. I'd pick it up. I'd put it down. No big rush there. I studied the "Key" trilogy and soaked up every word. It was still a good read, but then again, I thought it was entirely too predictable. And the J.D. Robb? I'm sorry to say that I solved whodunit about a fourth of the way through. The best thing I can say about the book was that I LOVED a scene in which Eve is trying to show Roarke how much she loves him. She goes WAY out of her comfort zone to try to give him an evening he won't soon forget. It's a keeper scene. Too bad I didn't feel that way about the entire book.
I know that some people will mentally rate the books they read. They have the "keepers" and the "throwers." But I've come upon another system. The water test.
1 starfish-A flea couldn't even get his ankles wet
2 starfish-My cat could walk across it
3 starfish-Deep enough for me to float
4 starfish-May need a snorkel
5 starfish-Deep sea diving-Do NOT disturb-Total immersion has occurred
What rates a four or five starfish with you? And is anybody else picturing Patrick from "Spongebob Squarepants?" Or is that just me?
Grins*
When I read, I have great expectations. The words must be effective. They must take me away to where they live. Show me the sights. Engage my mind. And if they don't?
Then I shallow read.
Shallow reading to me means that I can read and have half my mind somewhere else. Sometimes this is the fault of the author. And sometimes, frequently, it's mine.
I read approximately seven books within two days time late last week. I read a Kay Hooper, a James Patterson, a J.D. Robb, a category romance, and the Nora "Key" trilogy.
And this is what I discovered. I was immersed in both the Hooper and the Patterson. Immersed. The kids were snarled at, the dishes were neglected, and I loved both books.
The category romance was intermittent. I would read it sometimes. I'd pick it up. I'd put it down. No big rush there. I studied the "Key" trilogy and soaked up every word. It was still a good read, but then again, I thought it was entirely too predictable. And the J.D. Robb? I'm sorry to say that I solved whodunit about a fourth of the way through. The best thing I can say about the book was that I LOVED a scene in which Eve is trying to show Roarke how much she loves him. She goes WAY out of her comfort zone to try to give him an evening he won't soon forget. It's a keeper scene. Too bad I didn't feel that way about the entire book.
I know that some people will mentally rate the books they read. They have the "keepers" and the "throwers." But I've come upon another system. The water test.
1 starfish-A flea couldn't even get his ankles wet
2 starfish-My cat could walk across it
3 starfish-Deep enough for me to float
4 starfish-May need a snorkel
5 starfish-Deep sea diving-Do NOT disturb-Total immersion has occurred
What rates a four or five starfish with you? And is anybody else picturing Patrick from "Spongebob Squarepants?" Or is that just me?
Grins*
Sunday, June 19, 2005
Reinventing yourself
There's a lot to be said for having the flexibility to pull of a reinvention.
People who are constantly changing are doing one of two things. They are either changing because they're dissatisfied with themselves, or they are changing because they are growing. Only one of these is healthy.
People undergo changes on a daily basis. We dodge. We weave. We make do with who we are and what we do. This is imperative. If we don't adapt, we risk being left behind.
But there are some things we simply don't need to change. I've touched on this before in my "Square Peg, Round Hole" post http://chryscat.blogspot.com/2005/05/square-peground-hole.html#comments
I often wonder about authors who reinvent themselves. I love James Patterson. His "Alex Cross" novels are wonderful. I haven't heard anything good about his foray into romance. But I give him big points for exploring another avenue. BIG POINTS. He's taking a new path and stepping in a new direction. He's growing.
Catherine Coulter pulled it off big time when she went from romance to thriller. I absolutely love both these genres from her. Once again, very canny.
But what about the author who frantically searches for his/her spot? They're not even rooted, and yet they continually are searching for that sunshine.
You have to have roots before you can grow. You have to be someone before you can reinvent yourself. I don't mean literally. We're all someone. I mean professionally. Dig in with both hands and embrace who you are. Explore every avenue. Do not give up. If you half-ass give everything a try, you've committed to nothing. And you deserve more. Demand it.
And when you've found your literary home, and you're comfy, then go on vacation every once in awhile. And see who else you can be.
Grins*
People who are constantly changing are doing one of two things. They are either changing because they're dissatisfied with themselves, or they are changing because they are growing. Only one of these is healthy.
People undergo changes on a daily basis. We dodge. We weave. We make do with who we are and what we do. This is imperative. If we don't adapt, we risk being left behind.
But there are some things we simply don't need to change. I've touched on this before in my "Square Peg, Round Hole" post http://chryscat.blogspot.com/2005/05/square-peground-hole.html#comments
I often wonder about authors who reinvent themselves. I love James Patterson. His "Alex Cross" novels are wonderful. I haven't heard anything good about his foray into romance. But I give him big points for exploring another avenue. BIG POINTS. He's taking a new path and stepping in a new direction. He's growing.
Catherine Coulter pulled it off big time when she went from romance to thriller. I absolutely love both these genres from her. Once again, very canny.
But what about the author who frantically searches for his/her spot? They're not even rooted, and yet they continually are searching for that sunshine.
You have to have roots before you can grow. You have to be someone before you can reinvent yourself. I don't mean literally. We're all someone. I mean professionally. Dig in with both hands and embrace who you are. Explore every avenue. Do not give up. If you half-ass give everything a try, you've committed to nothing. And you deserve more. Demand it.
And when you've found your literary home, and you're comfy, then go on vacation every once in awhile. And see who else you can be.
Grins*
Saturday, June 18, 2005
When the stars speak
Chrys,You can feel the energy coming at you, even if your eyes are tightly shut. You may have thought that you've lost the buzz, but it's like the tide at the seashore. It comes and it goes. Try not to get all worked up about external events. Remember that you don't have control of everything. Don't take on more than you can handle.
Okay. Here's my problem. When did I lose control of everything? And I've been taking on more than I can handle for longer than I can remember. And I live to get worked up about external events. *laughing* Damn.
I'm sure this falls under "don't sweat the small stuff." And I'm getting better at that. If you could see my house, you would know it. I need to do dishes. And the chickens and I are going to be doing lawncare a little later on. You know, when it drops below 95 degrees here. I thought it would be nice if they could actually see below their knees. *shrug* It's a Mama thing.
I believe I'll be editing today. I need to go back through my manuscript which will be released in Feb. 2006. I'll be tightening that little sucker. And if I have time, I'll tackle book one of my FBS.
Enjoy the day!
Grins*
Okay. Here's my problem. When did I lose control of everything? And I've been taking on more than I can handle for longer than I can remember. And I live to get worked up about external events. *laughing* Damn.
I'm sure this falls under "don't sweat the small stuff." And I'm getting better at that. If you could see my house, you would know it. I need to do dishes. And the chickens and I are going to be doing lawncare a little later on. You know, when it drops below 95 degrees here. I thought it would be nice if they could actually see below their knees. *shrug* It's a Mama thing.
I believe I'll be editing today. I need to go back through my manuscript which will be released in Feb. 2006. I'll be tightening that little sucker. And if I have time, I'll tackle book one of my FBS.
Enjoy the day!
Grins*
Friday, June 17, 2005
The lengths I'll go to
First: Thank you to everyone for the congrats and well wishes! I loved them all!
I spent my day reformatting my suspense for a publisher's guidelines. And man! For this technically challenged woman, it was an ordeal. They had a page of stuff they needed done before they would even look at it. And two pages of biographical information and publicity ideas. I've only ploughed about halfway through it. And I used MS Word for the first time! WOO! I had to transfer from MS Works so that I could do what needed to be done. Plus they wanted page counts and word counts for each chapter. Good thing I' m a tad bit anal. I actually started to enjoy it. *rolls eyes*
Sometimes I worry about myself.
But I finally finished with the guidelines, and then I bipped around bloghopping and reading. I'm constantly amused by the day-to-day antics of both Suzanne http://www.suzannemcminn.com/blog/ and Jill http://www.jillshalvis.com/blog/ .
*shaking head and laughing*
I seriously need to start writing in MS Word now. It will save some time and save my children from learning a few choice words before they need to. Heh
Grins*
I spent my day reformatting my suspense for a publisher's guidelines. And man! For this technically challenged woman, it was an ordeal. They had a page of stuff they needed done before they would even look at it. And two pages of biographical information and publicity ideas. I've only ploughed about halfway through it. And I used MS Word for the first time! WOO! I had to transfer from MS Works so that I could do what needed to be done. Plus they wanted page counts and word counts for each chapter. Good thing I' m a tad bit anal. I actually started to enjoy it. *rolls eyes*
Sometimes I worry about myself.
But I finally finished with the guidelines, and then I bipped around bloghopping and reading. I'm constantly amused by the day-to-day antics of both Suzanne http://www.suzannemcminn.com/blog/ and Jill http://www.jillshalvis.com/blog/ .
*shaking head and laughing*
I seriously need to start writing in MS Word now. It will save some time and save my children from learning a few choice words before they need to. Heh
Grins*
I'm Queen of the World!
Well. Okay. Not literally. But I'm feeling pretty damn good this morning. Check out my first review.
And since this is my world, LMAO, I'm copying the whole damn review. BWAHAHAHAHAHA
Here it is:
sheryl writes
Virtually Yours by Crystal Inman
Whiskey Creek Press
www.whiskeycreekpress.com
October 2005
ISBN: 1-59374-312-2
Genre – Contemporary Romance
Length – 220 pages
RATING: 4 ½ Stars
Escapism with a hint of outstanding pleasure, Virtual Reality is a story that will seize the imagination of the reader with a storyline that comes straight from science fiction but will leave them satisfied in every way.To help her niece and nephew buy a Christmas present for her sister, Sarah Sharp decides to take part in a study at a Research Center. When she is chosen to be in the test she learns that she will be experimenting a virtual reality program and that is when the fun begins in the shape of Blake Canfield. Sarah thinks that Blake is merely a guide in the program but after spending so much time with Blake she begins to fall in love with him. Only all is not what it seems because Blake is as real as she is. What will happen if and when Sarah discovers that Blake is not only a virtual person but also real?
What is virtual reality? Is it filled with people that are just characters or are they real? For Sarah trying to discern between the two was hard but in the end love found the way for both her and Blake. Not to mention that along the way they were helped by the people that loved and cared for them. This story was a great read and I loved every minute of it. To find the man of your dreams inside a program that was supposed to offer fantasies is not something that would happen everyday and in the real world would never occur. Fantasy or not this story definitely captures the imagination and lets it soar into a world of make believe. Ms. Inman has written a wonderful story that is a must read from me and I will be certainly singing its’ praises to everyone I know.
Sheryl, eCataRomance reviews
www.eCataromance.com
Crystal Inman
http://chryswriter.tripod.com
Singing my praises. Imagine that. Wow. Needless to say, I sent this lovely woman an extremely exuberant thanks. If you'd like to rate this article--click on the eCataromance link and then "Reviews."
I'm going to polish my crown. *snickering*
Grins*
And since this is my world, LMAO, I'm copying the whole damn review. BWAHAHAHAHAHA
Here it is:
sheryl writes
Virtually Yours by Crystal Inman
Whiskey Creek Press
www.whiskeycreekpress.com
October 2005
ISBN: 1-59374-312-2
Genre – Contemporary Romance
Length – 220 pages
RATING: 4 ½ Stars
Escapism with a hint of outstanding pleasure, Virtual Reality is a story that will seize the imagination of the reader with a storyline that comes straight from science fiction but will leave them satisfied in every way.To help her niece and nephew buy a Christmas present for her sister, Sarah Sharp decides to take part in a study at a Research Center. When she is chosen to be in the test she learns that she will be experimenting a virtual reality program and that is when the fun begins in the shape of Blake Canfield. Sarah thinks that Blake is merely a guide in the program but after spending so much time with Blake she begins to fall in love with him. Only all is not what it seems because Blake is as real as she is. What will happen if and when Sarah discovers that Blake is not only a virtual person but also real?
What is virtual reality? Is it filled with people that are just characters or are they real? For Sarah trying to discern between the two was hard but in the end love found the way for both her and Blake. Not to mention that along the way they were helped by the people that loved and cared for them. This story was a great read and I loved every minute of it. To find the man of your dreams inside a program that was supposed to offer fantasies is not something that would happen everyday and in the real world would never occur. Fantasy or not this story definitely captures the imagination and lets it soar into a world of make believe. Ms. Inman has written a wonderful story that is a must read from me and I will be certainly singing its’ praises to everyone I know.
Sheryl, eCataRomance reviews
www.eCataromance.com
Crystal Inman
http://chryswriter.tripod.com
Singing my praises. Imagine that. Wow. Needless to say, I sent this lovely woman an extremely exuberant thanks. If you'd like to rate this article--click on the eCataromance link and then "Reviews."
I'm going to polish my crown. *snickering*
Grins*
Thursday, June 16, 2005
What she's doing now
And now I hope all of you have that damn Garth Brooks song floating through your head. heh
At least it makes an appropriate blog post title.
I'm editing (again) my suspense. I have this AWFUL habit of putting the wrong tags on dialogue. And now that it's been pointed out to me, Thanks Marsha!, I'm fixing it.
I wrote 2000 words yesterday and 4000 words the day before on book 1 of the FBS. Bippin' right along. For some reason, I was in Editor Mode today.
Romance Junkies is having a contest where authors can post a chapter of their book and have the opportunity to have said book underneath Tova's nose. On her desk. And whoo! What fun.
I've put in a chapter, which I've mentioned in an earlier blog post. I even used a pseudonym. I will say that mine hasn't been posted yet. New entries are posted Mondays. I followed the rules. All entries are supposed to have a nom de plume. And we are NOT allowed to advertise our entries because then it's by popular vote and not merit, perhaps. I can appreciate this rule. But I also know of another writer who advertised her entry on another loop, and she didn't get busted. Remember the HQN scandal? All that number manipulating? God.
The wonderful ladies at Romance Junkies can guard against that, but they don't have eyes everywhere. And this particular person really pissed me off. I even wrote chaoscat and asked. I figured, HEY!, I have a few friends. I could lobby for my work. But then I realized that if the work doesn't stand on its own, what good is it?
So I will let well enough alone. Here's the link for the Romance Junkies contest:
http://www.contestjunkies.com/artman/publish/cat_index_33.php
Check it out each Monday and vote for your favorite entry. There are some good ones. And you'll help one lucky writer out there with their dream.
Grins*
At least it makes an appropriate blog post title.
I'm editing (again) my suspense. I have this AWFUL habit of putting the wrong tags on dialogue. And now that it's been pointed out to me, Thanks Marsha!, I'm fixing it.
I wrote 2000 words yesterday and 4000 words the day before on book 1 of the FBS. Bippin' right along. For some reason, I was in Editor Mode today.
Romance Junkies is having a contest where authors can post a chapter of their book and have the opportunity to have said book underneath Tova's nose. On her desk. And whoo! What fun.
I've put in a chapter, which I've mentioned in an earlier blog post. I even used a pseudonym. I will say that mine hasn't been posted yet. New entries are posted Mondays. I followed the rules. All entries are supposed to have a nom de plume. And we are NOT allowed to advertise our entries because then it's by popular vote and not merit, perhaps. I can appreciate this rule. But I also know of another writer who advertised her entry on another loop, and she didn't get busted. Remember the HQN scandal? All that number manipulating? God.
The wonderful ladies at Romance Junkies can guard against that, but they don't have eyes everywhere. And this particular person really pissed me off. I even wrote chaoscat and asked. I figured, HEY!, I have a few friends. I could lobby for my work. But then I realized that if the work doesn't stand on its own, what good is it?
So I will let well enough alone. Here's the link for the Romance Junkies contest:
http://www.contestjunkies.com/artman/publish/cat_index_33.php
Check it out each Monday and vote for your favorite entry. There are some good ones. And you'll help one lucky writer out there with their dream.
Grins*
Feel my head
Time for another confession.
I love WebMD. Love it. And that symptom checker thing with the swirling woman or man? I think it rocks. You can pinpoint where the pain/problem is. Kewl.
I've had upper butt/lower back pain (WebMD calls it "flank pain", ahem...MOO) for quite awhile now. Then I get a twinge underneath my right shoulder blade. I have itty, bitty blisters on my right hand below my thumb. So. Let's see. Oh. And my ovaries are screaming, but I already know what causes that. Pfffftttt
I could have diabetes, gallstones, kidney stones, shingles, be pregnant (NOT), pulled something, be over-stressed, have bone or muscle problems, been bit by something, infection, psoriasis, eczema, or any one of several other things.
I love self-diagnosing. Too bad I can't write my own prescriptions. Heh
Grins*
I love WebMD. Love it. And that symptom checker thing with the swirling woman or man? I think it rocks. You can pinpoint where the pain/problem is. Kewl.
I've had upper butt/lower back pain (WebMD calls it "flank pain", ahem...MOO) for quite awhile now. Then I get a twinge underneath my right shoulder blade. I have itty, bitty blisters on my right hand below my thumb. So. Let's see. Oh. And my ovaries are screaming, but I already know what causes that. Pfffftttt
I could have diabetes, gallstones, kidney stones, shingles, be pregnant (NOT), pulled something, be over-stressed, have bone or muscle problems, been bit by something, infection, psoriasis, eczema, or any one of several other things.
I love self-diagnosing. Too bad I can't write my own prescriptions. Heh
Grins*
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
As Time Goes By
When we start out with our writing, we want to GET IT OUT! It's like having a literary exorcism. Um...there's no head-spinning, but God knows there's head-hopping. And some bad grammar. Questionable style. Fragments. It's ROUGH. And we self-edit. And self-edit. And then give it two weeks. And then self-edit some more.
We edit what we have. Let's say it's literally our first book. An editor would probably wince when they read it. Or want to gouge out their ocular orbs with the nearest fountain pen. But perhaps there's a grain in there that reaches out to them. It's a good plot. The characters have interesting dialogue. SOMETHING grabs them. And then we're in. But the fun has just begun. Because you know you can do it now. The idea fountain has been tapped, and it's flowing all down your gray matter. Your brain is literally flooded with ideas, characters, and plots. You scramble to write what you can down so you can utilize it later.
Your second book is a little better. You have a feel for it. You think you've narrowed down the head-hopping and fixed the fragments. The grammar is better. But you still leave a little to be desired in the style department. You do the editing thing...repeatedly. And then you send that baby out, too. Instead of the fountain pen, the editor scratches their head and thinks it's a little better. Perhaps with a little time...
You continue to work on your craft, because practice makes perfect after all. Or at least, that's what you're hoping. And your third book spills onto the page as if it had a mind of its own. It flows seamlessly. There are no huge mistakes that make an editor swear they should have listened to their parents and gone to law school. It's a good story. Strong characters. The grammar and style are pleasing. And it feels good.
My point? Do you ever look back on your own, or another author's writing and say, "Oh my. I can't believe that was ever published?" I have. With my own and other books. Bestselling books. Books with advances that could pay for my house twice over. It gets better. It always gets better when you put your back into it.
The more I write, the better I am. I can actually see the improvement. People have commented on it. And I can see it in other authors. I'll be honest. I didn't like a lot of the early Nora books. Yep. *Gasp* *Wheeze* I just said that.
We're all incredibly immature at the beginning of our careers. It takes time. It takes commitment. And it takes a will to embrace anything and everything that can help our writing. And then we grow. And maybe someday, we'll be that author on the NYT bestselling list that never gave up. And when we read our first book, we'll put away the fountain pens. Because we need those eyes.
Grins*
We edit what we have. Let's say it's literally our first book. An editor would probably wince when they read it. Or want to gouge out their ocular orbs with the nearest fountain pen. But perhaps there's a grain in there that reaches out to them. It's a good plot. The characters have interesting dialogue. SOMETHING grabs them. And then we're in. But the fun has just begun. Because you know you can do it now. The idea fountain has been tapped, and it's flowing all down your gray matter. Your brain is literally flooded with ideas, characters, and plots. You scramble to write what you can down so you can utilize it later.
Your second book is a little better. You have a feel for it. You think you've narrowed down the head-hopping and fixed the fragments. The grammar is better. But you still leave a little to be desired in the style department. You do the editing thing...repeatedly. And then you send that baby out, too. Instead of the fountain pen, the editor scratches their head and thinks it's a little better. Perhaps with a little time...
You continue to work on your craft, because practice makes perfect after all. Or at least, that's what you're hoping. And your third book spills onto the page as if it had a mind of its own. It flows seamlessly. There are no huge mistakes that make an editor swear they should have listened to their parents and gone to law school. It's a good story. Strong characters. The grammar and style are pleasing. And it feels good.
My point? Do you ever look back on your own, or another author's writing and say, "Oh my. I can't believe that was ever published?" I have. With my own and other books. Bestselling books. Books with advances that could pay for my house twice over. It gets better. It always gets better when you put your back into it.
The more I write, the better I am. I can actually see the improvement. People have commented on it. And I can see it in other authors. I'll be honest. I didn't like a lot of the early Nora books. Yep. *Gasp* *Wheeze* I just said that.
We're all incredibly immature at the beginning of our careers. It takes time. It takes commitment. And it takes a will to embrace anything and everything that can help our writing. And then we grow. And maybe someday, we'll be that author on the NYT bestselling list that never gave up. And when we read our first book, we'll put away the fountain pens. Because we need those eyes.
Grins*
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Sweet, Sensual, and Sure
We've all read about the archetypal females. I won't go into that. I'm just going to share an observation or two.
In two of Nora's trilogies, the woman are split into the above categories: sweet, sensual, and sure. This really rang true as I'm reading the third in the "Key" trilogy again. (On a sidenote: I've also read a James Patterson and Kay Hooper in the past two days. I was jonesin' for a read. Back to business.)
Mia(Three Sisters) and Mallory(Key) are the sensual ones. Every man within four miles embraces them as the girl they'd like to take to bed. Beautiful. Oozing sensuality.
Ripley(TS) and Dana(Key) are the sure ones. They'll knock you on your ass and grin down at you. They're cocksure and impulsive. Prone to fits of temper. Girl-next-door. The connotation being: when you get these two in bed, it's going to be a wild ride.
Nell(TS) and Zoe(Key) are the sweet ones. Nell ran from an abusive husband and into her destiny. Zoe worked her ass off to be a good single parent and give her boy everything he needed. The men in the stories want to protect them. The nice thing about this being, both woman can pretty much protect themselves. But when they do realize they need help, their collective men are waiting.
Real woman are not just sweet, sensual, or sure. We're all of the above. Authors tend to take one strong characteristic and play on it. And when they give us a peek of another one, we're dazzled. To see the "sure" woman have a moment of vulnerability. To see the "sweet" woman unleash her temper when she's been pushed too far. These moments stick out in her minds as we read their stories.
Women are not one-dimensional. Even the bitches have different layers of who they are and what they are made of. And that's when we need to explore every angle of our heroines.
This is something I work on in my writing. Find out the "why" to your characters. Talk to them. And though they may drive you buggy(AKA batshit) at times, it's imperative.
The archetypes are loose guidelines. They are not the be-all and end-all. They are simply starting points for authors. Give your heroine strength but balance that with a weakness. Well-rounded characters will play in our subconscious for a long time after that final page is read. And that is what we, as authors, strive to do.
And though you're heroine might start out as sweet, sensual, or sure, don't leave her there. Give her faults. Give her feeling. And for God's sake...give her life.
Grins*
In two of Nora's trilogies, the woman are split into the above categories: sweet, sensual, and sure. This really rang true as I'm reading the third in the "Key" trilogy again. (On a sidenote: I've also read a James Patterson and Kay Hooper in the past two days. I was jonesin' for a read. Back to business.)
Mia(Three Sisters) and Mallory(Key) are the sensual ones. Every man within four miles embraces them as the girl they'd like to take to bed. Beautiful. Oozing sensuality.
Ripley(TS) and Dana(Key) are the sure ones. They'll knock you on your ass and grin down at you. They're cocksure and impulsive. Prone to fits of temper. Girl-next-door. The connotation being: when you get these two in bed, it's going to be a wild ride.
Nell(TS) and Zoe(Key) are the sweet ones. Nell ran from an abusive husband and into her destiny. Zoe worked her ass off to be a good single parent and give her boy everything he needed. The men in the stories want to protect them. The nice thing about this being, both woman can pretty much protect themselves. But when they do realize they need help, their collective men are waiting.
Real woman are not just sweet, sensual, or sure. We're all of the above. Authors tend to take one strong characteristic and play on it. And when they give us a peek of another one, we're dazzled. To see the "sure" woman have a moment of vulnerability. To see the "sweet" woman unleash her temper when she's been pushed too far. These moments stick out in her minds as we read their stories.
Women are not one-dimensional. Even the bitches have different layers of who they are and what they are made of. And that's when we need to explore every angle of our heroines.
This is something I work on in my writing. Find out the "why" to your characters. Talk to them. And though they may drive you buggy(AKA batshit) at times, it's imperative.
The archetypes are loose guidelines. They are not the be-all and end-all. They are simply starting points for authors. Give your heroine strength but balance that with a weakness. Well-rounded characters will play in our subconscious for a long time after that final page is read. And that is what we, as authors, strive to do.
And though you're heroine might start out as sweet, sensual, or sure, don't leave her there. Give her faults. Give her feeling. And for God's sake...give her life.
Grins*
Monday, June 13, 2005
Bribes
I have bribed my children. I am a shameless Mama. Even now, as I type this, they are sucked up into the latest PS2 game. I am bad. Heh
And now I'm over it.
My heroine of the first book in the FBS is PAID to be a megabitch. Hence, the screaming. Or shrieking, as Sloane loves to phrase it. And now she's mad at him. Because he saw something he wasn't supposed to. Hell, I thought reality was harsh.
Usually, I have my h/h meet fairly early. These two are avoiding each other like the plague.
I have news! I'm going to be able to go to the EPICon in San Antonio next March. OH. MY. GOD. I am so excited. It's only a state away. We've driven it before. Two or three years ago we took vacation down there. It will be my first conference. I'll have two books out by then. And the kids will get to go down and have a little fun, too. Man. That worked out pretty well.
Plans for the day: Keep chickens supplied with food and games. Type on FBS. Contact local libraries to work on signings. Daydream about EPICon. Yep. All good.
Grins*
And now I'm over it.
My heroine of the first book in the FBS is PAID to be a megabitch. Hence, the screaming. Or shrieking, as Sloane loves to phrase it. And now she's mad at him. Because he saw something he wasn't supposed to. Hell, I thought reality was harsh.
Usually, I have my h/h meet fairly early. These two are avoiding each other like the plague.
I have news! I'm going to be able to go to the EPICon in San Antonio next March. OH. MY. GOD. I am so excited. It's only a state away. We've driven it before. Two or three years ago we took vacation down there. It will be my first conference. I'll have two books out by then. And the kids will get to go down and have a little fun, too. Man. That worked out pretty well.
Plans for the day: Keep chickens supplied with food and games. Type on FBS. Contact local libraries to work on signings. Daydream about EPICon. Yep. All good.
Grins*
Sunday, June 12, 2005
He makes me crazy!
I thought I'd sit down with the hero of my first book of my FBS. He wasn't much help. For some reason he's taken an aversion to my heroine, Kelly. Here's how it went.
Me: What's the problem, Sloane? I'm here for you.
Sloane: I don't like her.
M: Um...why specifically?
S (rolls eyes): She shrieks.
M: She's supposed to! It's her freaking job!
S: Besides. (he shrugs) I think she's screwing around with Matt.
M: You can't always believe what you hear.
S: I've seen them together. (I notice his jaw is clenched. Interesting.)
M: It's her job. Can you get over that for just one second? What else?
S: She doesn't even know my name. (he paused for a second) And she's rude.
M (Ah. This I can work with.): She's about to become very important to your job. And she's not rude. You've caught her on two bad days.
S: Whatever. (another shrug) I know her type.
M (In extremely irritated voice): Oh really? And what's her type?
S: Conceited. Shallow. Irritating.
M: Things aren't always what they seem.
S: And she shrieks.
M: Gaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!
Crystal*
Me: What's the problem, Sloane? I'm here for you.
Sloane: I don't like her.
M: Um...why specifically?
S (rolls eyes): She shrieks.
M: She's supposed to! It's her freaking job!
S: Besides. (he shrugs) I think she's screwing around with Matt.
M: You can't always believe what you hear.
S: I've seen them together. (I notice his jaw is clenched. Interesting.)
M: It's her job. Can you get over that for just one second? What else?
S: She doesn't even know my name. (he paused for a second) And she's rude.
M (Ah. This I can work with.): She's about to become very important to your job. And she's not rude. You've caught her on two bad days.
S: Whatever. (another shrug) I know her type.
M (In extremely irritated voice): Oh really? And what's her type?
S: Conceited. Shallow. Irritating.
M: Things aren't always what they seem.
S: And she shrieks.
M: Gaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!
Crystal*
Saturday, June 11, 2005
youyou
Okay. Enough about me already. I've put together some important, telling questions about y'all. Answer what you like. No pressure here. But I think these are things we ALL want to know. *grinning* My answers follow.
1. Creamy or crunchy? Creamy
2. Black or white? White
3. Rain or sun? Sun-Bake me, baby.
4. Cat or dog? Cat-I'm sure I was one once before.
5. Tearjerker or Comedy? Comedy. I hate to cry.
6. News or soaps? News. No doubt.
7. Notebook or computer? Computer. I LOVE my computer.
8. Book or movie? Book. Every time. No exceptions.
9. Spiderman, Batman, or Superman? Gee. Men in tights. I'm going with Batman.
10. Bath or shower? Bath. With salts.
11. Rock or Country? Both. I love it all.
12. Milk or orange juice? Milk. Moo, baby.
13. Coffee or soda? Diet Pepsi. The nectar of Gods.
14. Inside or outside? Depends on whether I'm writing or not.
15. Pool or ocean? Pool. Sharks skeer me.
16. Pie or cake? Pumpkin pie. Bring the whipped cream.
17. M & M's--plain, peanut, or peanut butter? Peanut butter. Mmmmmmmmm
18. Popcorn--buttered or unbuttered? Buttered. It must be floating. LOL
19. Hot or cold? Hot.
And finally
20. Buffy or Angel? Angel. Oh man. Come to Mama!
Grins*
1. Creamy or crunchy? Creamy
2. Black or white? White
3. Rain or sun? Sun-Bake me, baby.
4. Cat or dog? Cat-I'm sure I was one once before.
5. Tearjerker or Comedy? Comedy. I hate to cry.
6. News or soaps? News. No doubt.
7. Notebook or computer? Computer. I LOVE my computer.
8. Book or movie? Book. Every time. No exceptions.
9. Spiderman, Batman, or Superman? Gee. Men in tights. I'm going with Batman.
10. Bath or shower? Bath. With salts.
11. Rock or Country? Both. I love it all.
12. Milk or orange juice? Milk. Moo, baby.
13. Coffee or soda? Diet Pepsi. The nectar of Gods.
14. Inside or outside? Depends on whether I'm writing or not.
15. Pool or ocean? Pool. Sharks skeer me.
16. Pie or cake? Pumpkin pie. Bring the whipped cream.
17. M & M's--plain, peanut, or peanut butter? Peanut butter. Mmmmmmmmm
18. Popcorn--buttered or unbuttered? Buttered. It must be floating. LOL
19. Hot or cold? Hot.
And finally
20. Buffy or Angel? Angel. Oh man. Come to Mama!
Grins*
Romance--The Next Generation
It's happened. I knew it would. And now it has. My oldest chicken (11 1/2) has started reading romances. It was inevitable, I know. But it still tickles me. She's starting out with the Avalon Romances. You know, the ones with pastel, faded covers and lips ALMOST touching each other. It's so damn cute I can hardly stand it.
We've already had "THE TALK", so I know she knows the mechanics of sex. And she knows my door is always open to any other questions she may have. And I believe we'll hold off on the more explicit books for another couple of years. But I LOVE the fact she's reading them. Reminds me of me back in the day. Of course, my Mother had no idea I was reading "Lucky" and Jackie Collins and such. OH, BABY! She would've freaked smooth out. Ignorance, to her, was bliss.
I plan on keeping an eye on Miss Thang. We'll see how she progresses down the romance road. And I'll wait for the inevitable..."Can I read yours?"
Grins*
We've already had "THE TALK", so I know she knows the mechanics of sex. And she knows my door is always open to any other questions she may have. And I believe we'll hold off on the more explicit books for another couple of years. But I LOVE the fact she's reading them. Reminds me of me back in the day. Of course, my Mother had no idea I was reading "Lucky" and Jackie Collins and such. OH, BABY! She would've freaked smooth out. Ignorance, to her, was bliss.
I plan on keeping an eye on Miss Thang. We'll see how she progresses down the romance road. And I'll wait for the inevitable..."Can I read yours?"
Grins*
Friday, June 10, 2005
Where's the pool boy?
Hmmm. I have the pool filling with water now. Everything has been assembled. I shake the box and nothing. NO pool boy. I wonder if I should write the manufacturer. Isn't that a requirement?
The chickens are ALL up in the pool. It's only half-filled, but that's still two feet deep. All my animals are clustered around wondering what in the hell is going on in the big, blue tube.
And it's GLORIOUS! I can write in relative peace. I get up about every half hour, make sure they haven't killed each other, and go back to typing. Received two more "passes" from agents in the mail today. Not too bad. I'm still plugging along. :)
I've written 3300 words today so far. I'm thinking I might keep going. I'll probably break it up with little snips of playing with my Microsoft Office stuff. OH. MY. GOD. I absolutely love it! You can make postcards and newsletters. All sorts of neat things. And I'm having a blast. I'm designing the postcards for my first release. Heh
And I need to work on my website. It's pretty damn bad when I pay more attention to my blog. Bad, bad me.
Tomorrow is going to be super-busy. Shopping, laundry, etc. So I think I'll go back to my writing. WHOO!
Grins*
UPDATE: I have offically wrote 4300 words today. OMG! I am feeling froggy! *grinning*
The chickens are ALL up in the pool. It's only half-filled, but that's still two feet deep. All my animals are clustered around wondering what in the hell is going on in the big, blue tube.
And it's GLORIOUS! I can write in relative peace. I get up about every half hour, make sure they haven't killed each other, and go back to typing. Received two more "passes" from agents in the mail today. Not too bad. I'm still plugging along. :)
I've written 3300 words today so far. I'm thinking I might keep going. I'll probably break it up with little snips of playing with my Microsoft Office stuff. OH. MY. GOD. I absolutely love it! You can make postcards and newsletters. All sorts of neat things. And I'm having a blast. I'm designing the postcards for my first release. Heh
And I need to work on my website. It's pretty damn bad when I pay more attention to my blog. Bad, bad me.
Tomorrow is going to be super-busy. Shopping, laundry, etc. So I think I'll go back to my writing. WHOO!
Grins*
UPDATE: I have offically wrote 4300 words today. OMG! I am feeling froggy! *grinning*
The long and short of it.
Sand sucks.
The kids worked their collective asses off yesterday with shovels, rakes, and boards. They wanted that pool BAD!
My friend hauling the sand had ANOTHER flat tire yesterday, so it was like five o'clock before we had all the sand in the yard. We were all sunburnt, cranky, and disappointed. Then came the leveling part. We leveled as best we could and thus began the filling of the pool. And B, God bless her, called and asked if the kids wanted to come over again and swim in her pool. OMG! Yes. Hell yes. I think we were ready before I hung up the phone. My friend was driving, and I drank 2 Margarita Wine Coolers on the ten minute trip over there. I didn't have anymore, but believe me, it took the edge off. Heh
The pool is filling up right now. I'm going to let the chickens hop in this afternoon. That water is going to be hella cold, but they won't care.
And during this whole adventure, I managed to jam my left pinky toe against a spare tire. It is now completely purple. Only hurts when I walk/stand/breathe.
Writing news: I haven't written ANYTHING the past two days. Life has, again, taken precedence. Pesky. Very pesky. So I'm typing today and working on Book 1 of the FBS. When I write, I'm committed to a chapter a day, roughly fifteen pages.
I'm considering joining a writing organization, but I'm so unsure as to what will be the right fit. And with all the talk of CP's and such, I want one or two. But then I have all the fears that go with it. What if I'm too harsh? I know what I like. I know the basic grammar and style rules. But I don't want to screw someone else's ms up. What if they utterly loathe what I write? It's just a cluster. I'm still pondering this one.
Off to write.
Grins*
The kids worked their collective asses off yesterday with shovels, rakes, and boards. They wanted that pool BAD!
My friend hauling the sand had ANOTHER flat tire yesterday, so it was like five o'clock before we had all the sand in the yard. We were all sunburnt, cranky, and disappointed. Then came the leveling part. We leveled as best we could and thus began the filling of the pool. And B, God bless her, called and asked if the kids wanted to come over again and swim in her pool. OMG! Yes. Hell yes. I think we were ready before I hung up the phone. My friend was driving, and I drank 2 Margarita Wine Coolers on the ten minute trip over there. I didn't have anymore, but believe me, it took the edge off. Heh
The pool is filling up right now. I'm going to let the chickens hop in this afternoon. That water is going to be hella cold, but they won't care.
And during this whole adventure, I managed to jam my left pinky toe against a spare tire. It is now completely purple. Only hurts when I walk/stand/breathe.
Writing news: I haven't written ANYTHING the past two days. Life has, again, taken precedence. Pesky. Very pesky. So I'm typing today and working on Book 1 of the FBS. When I write, I'm committed to a chapter a day, roughly fifteen pages.
I'm considering joining a writing organization, but I'm so unsure as to what will be the right fit. And with all the talk of CP's and such, I want one or two. But then I have all the fears that go with it. What if I'm too harsh? I know what I like. I know the basic grammar and style rules. But I don't want to screw someone else's ms up. What if they utterly loathe what I write? It's just a cluster. I'm still pondering this one.
Off to write.
Grins*
Thursday, June 09, 2005
Sand update
After purchasing a new tire, jack, and imbibing some Margarita wine coolers, I didn't think yesterday was a total wash.
We're back to using the truck again. So let's see. That will be like FOUR loads of sand in the back of the truck. Because we don't want it loaded down with a repeat of yesterday.
We have the pool stretched out on the ground cover thingy. And then there's the fun job of leveling out the sand. My yard slopes like this: /
Not subtle by any stretch of the imagination. The only level spot in the yard is a small path. Not exactly conducive to a 4' x 18' pool. Well, it would be if we wanted 2 feet of water on one side and 2 inches on the other.
Oh...and did I forget to mention it's sprinkling?
I think a have a couple of wine coolers left. I better.
Grins*
We're back to using the truck again. So let's see. That will be like FOUR loads of sand in the back of the truck. Because we don't want it loaded down with a repeat of yesterday.
We have the pool stretched out on the ground cover thingy. And then there's the fun job of leveling out the sand. My yard slopes like this: /
Not subtle by any stretch of the imagination. The only level spot in the yard is a small path. Not exactly conducive to a 4' x 18' pool. Well, it would be if we wanted 2 feet of water on one side and 2 inches on the other.
Oh...and did I forget to mention it's sprinkling?
I think a have a couple of wine coolers left. I better.
Grins*
Double-tagged!
POW! BLAM! I've been double-tagged. *blinking* I never saw it coming.
Special thanks to Silma and Lyvvie. I adore you both. And paybacks are a bitch. Heh
The RulesRemove the #1 item from the following list, bump everyone up one place and add your blog's name in the #5 spot. You need to actually link to each of the blogs for the link-whorage aspect of this fiendish meme-age to kick in *g*.
Here we go: 1. Larissa Ione2. Teresa3. Kat (The SoapBox)4.http://lyvviesblether.blogspot.com/
5. http://www.silma.org/blog/ ...and then you choose 4 unsuspecting victims...
1. Kel at http://gigglegals.blogspot.com/
2. Kacey at http://www.thewritingspot.com/blog/ See what happens when you laugh? *grins*
3. Katie at http://www.katiecrawford.com/
4. Michelle (thus breaking the "K" cycle) at http://www.michellewillingham.com/blog/
5 Things I miss from my childhood
1. Summers at the library. I would go immerse myself in the stacks. Literally. There were all kinds of hidey-holes at the ol' city library. No children asking for guidance. No worrying about everyone else's library cards. Just me and a literary friend. Heaven.
2. Visiting my Grandparents. My sister and I would be shipped off to the grandparents (sometimes separate ones) for a couple of days. Grandpa had an acreage with horses, dogs, and treehouses. I would wander around for hours. Just being. Pure bliss.
3. Friends. I remember when we thought the world was our playground. We could do anything. Be anything. We were bullet-proof. Invincible. No fears. And then we grew up and learned it just wasn't so.
4. My old desk. I received a desk one year for Christmas. I think I was six. I used that desk until I was twelve. It was particle board with a rolltop. And I thought I was hot shit. I would sit at it for hours and just create things with my mind. It had cubbies and drawers. It also held my hopes and dreams.
5. My old record player. Yes. A record player. It had a blue plastic case, and we bought it at Cook's. I thought I died and gone to Musical Heaven. I could play my records on it. And I did. When all else sucked in my world, I would put on the tunes. This was before my boombox and other stereo toys. It was my first. My first BIG album was "Elton John's Greatest Hits." Can anyone say "Crocodile Rock"? I would rock out to it habitually. Me-come home. Change clothes. Put on a record or two. I had Loverboy and Samantha Fox. And there was this cool place at the mall where I could buy three 45's for $10. And my mother, God bless her, who didn't have the same musical tastes as I did, never said a word.
I didn't add myself to the meme. Heh. I was tagged twice so I put in Lyvvie and Silma. And I don't know how to hide the links just so you know. *grinning*
I had a lot more than five things when I was thinking back and trying to pick. It's amazing what a simple meme can do to jog the memory and take us back. And it's amazing that my childhood is still fresh in my memory.
Lyvvie: I love Dairy Queen. We had one across from my elementary school. And we would sell chocolate bars to raise money. They were huge and only a dollar. My grandpa bought 14 one time. And then we would jump some tape with quarters attached and however far we jumped, we got the quarters. I bought many an ice-cream for myself. It tasted better back then. You can't go back, they say. And they're right. But you can savor the taste of the past and all those memories. And they're just as sweet.
Grins*
Special thanks to Silma and Lyvvie. I adore you both. And paybacks are a bitch. Heh
The RulesRemove the #1 item from the following list, bump everyone up one place and add your blog's name in the #5 spot. You need to actually link to each of the blogs for the link-whorage aspect of this fiendish meme-age to kick in *g*.
Here we go: 1. Larissa Ione2. Teresa3. Kat (The SoapBox)4.http://lyvviesblether.blogspot.com/
5. http://www.silma.org/blog/ ...and then you choose 4 unsuspecting victims...
1. Kel at http://gigglegals.blogspot.com/
2. Kacey at http://www.thewritingspot.com/blog/ See what happens when you laugh? *grins*
3. Katie at http://www.katiecrawford.com/
4. Michelle (thus breaking the "K" cycle) at http://www.michellewillingham.com/blog/
5 Things I miss from my childhood
1. Summers at the library. I would go immerse myself in the stacks. Literally. There were all kinds of hidey-holes at the ol' city library. No children asking for guidance. No worrying about everyone else's library cards. Just me and a literary friend. Heaven.
2. Visiting my Grandparents. My sister and I would be shipped off to the grandparents (sometimes separate ones) for a couple of days. Grandpa had an acreage with horses, dogs, and treehouses. I would wander around for hours. Just being. Pure bliss.
3. Friends. I remember when we thought the world was our playground. We could do anything. Be anything. We were bullet-proof. Invincible. No fears. And then we grew up and learned it just wasn't so.
4. My old desk. I received a desk one year for Christmas. I think I was six. I used that desk until I was twelve. It was particle board with a rolltop. And I thought I was hot shit. I would sit at it for hours and just create things with my mind. It had cubbies and drawers. It also held my hopes and dreams.
5. My old record player. Yes. A record player. It had a blue plastic case, and we bought it at Cook's. I thought I died and gone to Musical Heaven. I could play my records on it. And I did. When all else sucked in my world, I would put on the tunes. This was before my boombox and other stereo toys. It was my first. My first BIG album was "Elton John's Greatest Hits." Can anyone say "Crocodile Rock"? I would rock out to it habitually. Me-come home. Change clothes. Put on a record or two. I had Loverboy and Samantha Fox. And there was this cool place at the mall where I could buy three 45's for $10. And my mother, God bless her, who didn't have the same musical tastes as I did, never said a word.
I didn't add myself to the meme. Heh. I was tagged twice so I put in Lyvvie and Silma. And I don't know how to hide the links just so you know. *grinning*
I had a lot more than five things when I was thinking back and trying to pick. It's amazing what a simple meme can do to jog the memory and take us back. And it's amazing that my childhood is still fresh in my memory.
Lyvvie: I love Dairy Queen. We had one across from my elementary school. And we would sell chocolate bars to raise money. They were huge and only a dollar. My grandpa bought 14 one time. And then we would jump some tape with quarters attached and however far we jumped, we got the quarters. I bought many an ice-cream for myself. It tasted better back then. You can't go back, they say. And they're right. But you can savor the taste of the past and all those memories. And they're just as sweet.
Grins*
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Best laid plans
Well then. Here's what's going on in MY neck of the woods.
After the flat on the truck, which THANKFULLY I was NOT driving, my friend borrowed a jack to fix the tire. Because, you know, the spare was flat, too. Anyway, the truck BROKE the jack. And now we have to buy another one of my friends a new tire. So, my $12 worth of sand is adding up to:
New jack
New tire
And having approximately 12 tons of sand dumped in my yard tomorrow. That's only $140. Three tons is something like $90. I'll send sand if you pay the postage. Heh
Just shoot me. Or at the very least, don't laugh so hard I can hear you. :)~~
Grins*
After the flat on the truck, which THANKFULLY I was NOT driving, my friend borrowed a jack to fix the tire. Because, you know, the spare was flat, too. Anyway, the truck BROKE the jack. And now we have to buy another one of my friends a new tire. So, my $12 worth of sand is adding up to:
New jack
New tire
And having approximately 12 tons of sand dumped in my yard tomorrow. That's only $140. Three tons is something like $90. I'll send sand if you pay the postage. Heh
Just shoot me. Or at the very least, don't laugh so hard I can hear you. :)~~
Grins*
A Day in the Life
Couldn't sleep last night. Finally went to sleep after midnight. Wide awake at 5:16 a.m. Then it's off to Mom's, dragging the chickens with me. Garden time. We emancipated several LARGE zucchini and squash. Kids were busy chasing their chickens. Yes. Chickens chasing chickens. And they're molting right now, so um...they were highly unattractive. The feathered chickens. *snorting*
The sand is in process. Apparently the truck sprung a flat, so it'll be a little while. So much for squeezing ANY writing in today. I have crab dip to make. Deviled eggs. And all sorts of other things that are BAD FOR US. LMAO That's why it's so damn good. So, I guess today is just a summer day. Time to relax (besides spending hours in the sun shoveling sand) and inhale some summer fare.
Writing stuff: I figured out I want about 20 chapters on the FBS. That seems about right. Then I can revise as necessary. It's going right along. I've been putting in about fifteen pages a day AKA a chapter. Not bad. And then I had the brilliant idea (pfffttttt) of doing the sequel to my first book coming out in October. It's about the heroine's sister. We'll see. That one isn't set in stone yet. SO MANY STORIES TO WRITE!!!
Oh. And Mom gave me some Creatacard stuff. So now I want to play and make cards. So focusing? Probably tomorrow.
And good news about my banner. I think I'm going to have one made.
What do you think?
"Author Crystal Inman Bringing Desire to Your Door"
Am I cheesy, or what?
Grins*
The sand is in process. Apparently the truck sprung a flat, so it'll be a little while. So much for squeezing ANY writing in today. I have crab dip to make. Deviled eggs. And all sorts of other things that are BAD FOR US. LMAO That's why it's so damn good. So, I guess today is just a summer day. Time to relax (besides spending hours in the sun shoveling sand) and inhale some summer fare.
Writing stuff: I figured out I want about 20 chapters on the FBS. That seems about right. Then I can revise as necessary. It's going right along. I've been putting in about fifteen pages a day AKA a chapter. Not bad. And then I had the brilliant idea (pfffttttt) of doing the sequel to my first book coming out in October. It's about the heroine's sister. We'll see. That one isn't set in stone yet. SO MANY STORIES TO WRITE!!!
Oh. And Mom gave me some Creatacard stuff. So now I want to play and make cards. So focusing? Probably tomorrow.
And good news about my banner. I think I'm going to have one made.
What do you think?
"Author Crystal Inman Bringing Desire to Your Door"
Am I cheesy, or what?
Grins*
Preconceived Notions
Hold your snorting until the end, please.
I must admit, when I started my writer's journey, I had preconceived notions. Not about my work, per se, but about y'all in general. Other writers had more going for them. Could acquire an agent faster. And they were aesthetically pleasing and could manage to write, manage the house, and everything else whilst I was struggling with the basics.
Yes, I really thought that.
And then my eyes were opened by the wonderful world of reality. Y'all have no idea how comforting that is. Y'all are real people. REAL PEOPLE. How cool is that?
And not to um...derive any type of pleasure from your "real" selves, but I love that fact that not every day is perfect for you.
We all struggle. We all work our butts off. We all deal with outside forces, unruly chickens, SO's who sometimes JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND, agents, publishers, and ourselves.
WHEW!
So I'm thankful for the peeks into your lives. The stories that parallel mine. And the understanding that only a fellow writer can give.
So thanks. Thanks for opening my eyes. Making me laugh. And showing me that together we have a great support system.
And now that I've let some of the sappy out, I must comeback next post and use some snark. There must be a balance struck here somewhere.
Grins*
I must admit, when I started my writer's journey, I had preconceived notions. Not about my work, per se, but about y'all in general. Other writers had more going for them. Could acquire an agent faster. And they were aesthetically pleasing and could manage to write, manage the house, and everything else whilst I was struggling with the basics.
Yes, I really thought that.
And then my eyes were opened by the wonderful world of reality. Y'all have no idea how comforting that is. Y'all are real people. REAL PEOPLE. How cool is that?
And not to um...derive any type of pleasure from your "real" selves, but I love that fact that not every day is perfect for you.
We all struggle. We all work our butts off. We all deal with outside forces, unruly chickens, SO's who sometimes JUST DON'T UNDERSTAND, agents, publishers, and ourselves.
WHEW!
So I'm thankful for the peeks into your lives. The stories that parallel mine. And the understanding that only a fellow writer can give.
So thanks. Thanks for opening my eyes. Making me laugh. And showing me that together we have a great support system.
And now that I've let some of the sappy out, I must comeback next post and use some snark. There must be a balance struck here somewhere.
Grins*
Tuesday, June 07, 2005
We delight in finding someone's mistakes.
This post brought to you by my chickens who are deep in reading and are delighting in picking out mistakes in the text.
One of these books is a Frank Baum book (Wizard of Oz series). One of these is a Beverly Cleary book. Both have either typos or grammatical errors in them. Isn't that amazing?
Children love telling someone they are wrong. If I had a dollar every time I tried to explain the children's homework, only to be told that was NOT the way Mrs. So-and-so did it, I could retire. And probably pay for my nerve pills. *laughing*
Why do we insist on being right and assume everyone else is wrong? I'm guilty of this. I rule this house. Period. And when there is a wrong of some sort, I right it. Usually with eye-rolling and gritted teeth. What's wrong with these people? Don't they know how to do anything?
I think this stems from a point in time when I was it. I HAD to do everything, and it had to be right. And thus it's evolved into this monster now.
I need to let some of this go. So the plates aren't put in the right spot. So what? So someone missed a corner of the rug with the sweeper. Who cares? As long as the basic need was met, why must I insist on it being done a certain way? My way.
There are things I insist on. Clothes to be folded nicely and off the floor. Dishes with nothing left on them. Stuff like that. I won't let these go. But maybe I'll realize something about the little stuff.
No one's perfect. Not even me.
Grins*
One of these books is a Frank Baum book (Wizard of Oz series). One of these is a Beverly Cleary book. Both have either typos or grammatical errors in them. Isn't that amazing?
Children love telling someone they are wrong. If I had a dollar every time I tried to explain the children's homework, only to be told that was NOT the way Mrs. So-and-so did it, I could retire. And probably pay for my nerve pills. *laughing*
Why do we insist on being right and assume everyone else is wrong? I'm guilty of this. I rule this house. Period. And when there is a wrong of some sort, I right it. Usually with eye-rolling and gritted teeth. What's wrong with these people? Don't they know how to do anything?
I think this stems from a point in time when I was it. I HAD to do everything, and it had to be right. And thus it's evolved into this monster now.
I need to let some of this go. So the plates aren't put in the right spot. So what? So someone missed a corner of the rug with the sweeper. Who cares? As long as the basic need was met, why must I insist on it being done a certain way? My way.
There are things I insist on. Clothes to be folded nicely and off the floor. Dishes with nothing left on them. Stuff like that. I won't let these go. But maybe I'll realize something about the little stuff.
No one's perfect. Not even me.
Grins*
My mutant ability to the rescue.
Chrys,Your relationship to coworkers and friends is being transformed as passions rise. It feels as if there are no solutions to the disagreements which have become rather heated. You, however, have a secret weapon that you can bring to the table. Your ability to detach while staying engaged might save the day, especially if you can help locate small pieces of common ground upon which you can all stand together.
Interesting. So my OCD/Schizophrenic personality will finally come in handy. Now, if I don't start arguing with myself. Hmmmmmmm
Grins*
Interesting. So my OCD/Schizophrenic personality will finally come in handy. Now, if I don't start arguing with myself. Hmmmmmmm
Grins*
Monday, June 06, 2005
Oh yes. I have an opinion.
RWA.
I don't belong to RWA. It's really quite simple. It wasn't for lack of wanting to. It was from lack of funds. No money to join. No money to haul my backwoods ass to the nearest big city for a chapter meeting. Did I mention it was too expensive? There were stories about networking and such that broke my heart because I knew I wasn't a part of any of it. If only...I would tell myself.
So now, there's this big debacle about what RWA stands for and what is acceptable. And how if there are "objectionable" links, then they may NOT be used in relation in any way, shape, or form with RWA.
I'm so disgusted with this whole rationale, I'm nauseated. And here I was, thinking when I finally had the funds, I could lay my money down and be part of a fellowship, so to speak.
It would be like Dorothy landing in Oz. The Technicolor would kick in. Munchkins would sing. And I would have the honor of bipping down the yellow, brick road. What a load of bullshit.
I'm always amazed how some people are so eager to segregate and breakdown something that, in my opinion, is supposed to build-up the writing industry. So you don't like erotica. Romantica(tm). Whatever. Don't you dare step on my rights and censor me. If I have to sacrifice my principles and integrity to belong to the RWA, they can kiss my backwoods butt.
Grins*
I don't belong to RWA. It's really quite simple. It wasn't for lack of wanting to. It was from lack of funds. No money to join. No money to haul my backwoods ass to the nearest big city for a chapter meeting. Did I mention it was too expensive? There were stories about networking and such that broke my heart because I knew I wasn't a part of any of it. If only...I would tell myself.
So now, there's this big debacle about what RWA stands for and what is acceptable. And how if there are "objectionable" links, then they may NOT be used in relation in any way, shape, or form with RWA.
I'm so disgusted with this whole rationale, I'm nauseated. And here I was, thinking when I finally had the funds, I could lay my money down and be part of a fellowship, so to speak.
It would be like Dorothy landing in Oz. The Technicolor would kick in. Munchkins would sing. And I would have the honor of bipping down the yellow, brick road. What a load of bullshit.
I'm always amazed how some people are so eager to segregate and breakdown something that, in my opinion, is supposed to build-up the writing industry. So you don't like erotica. Romantica(tm). Whatever. Don't you dare step on my rights and censor me. If I have to sacrifice my principles and integrity to belong to the RWA, they can kiss my backwoods butt.
Grins*
Wired and inspired
I lead a lonely writing life. My only interaction, so to speak, is through the computer. I value all the comments left on my blog, and I LOVE to bloghop around.
I sent my FBS premise to someone yesterday who I trusted enough to send it to. And she took time out of her day to send me a lovely little note saying that she liked the premise. To say it made my day, would be putting it mildly.
And so I have decided to pull out all the stops and work on the FBS. Yes, I'm in the middle of an erotica. And yes, I have another one pounding on my cerebellum. But I really want to finish the first of the four-book set and start sending it out.
Update on my goodies: Heh. I have goodies. Anyway...I sent my RTB column in today. They are willing to let us laywriters submit a column, and they might pick it to run in August. It's a mebbe. So I submitted because I love RTB, and it's my first stop everyday in Blogland.
I received my first rejection from an agent on my Suspense. But that is OKAY! It was a nice one, and I didn't mind a bit. Look Ma! Alligator skin. *grinning*
I also sent two short stories into an anthology. And I submitted a first chapter over at Romance Junkies in their contest. I REALLY hope that one does well. It's the first chapter of my FBS, and I have high hopes. But if it doesn't end up in front of Tova, well, then it sure as hell will end up in front of someone else.
Yes, I have balls of brass today. They're a little unwieldy, but I could get used to it.
Grins*
I sent my FBS premise to someone yesterday who I trusted enough to send it to. And she took time out of her day to send me a lovely little note saying that she liked the premise. To say it made my day, would be putting it mildly.
And so I have decided to pull out all the stops and work on the FBS. Yes, I'm in the middle of an erotica. And yes, I have another one pounding on my cerebellum. But I really want to finish the first of the four-book set and start sending it out.
Update on my goodies: Heh. I have goodies. Anyway...I sent my RTB column in today. They are willing to let us laywriters submit a column, and they might pick it to run in August. It's a mebbe. So I submitted because I love RTB, and it's my first stop everyday in Blogland.
I received my first rejection from an agent on my Suspense. But that is OKAY! It was a nice one, and I didn't mind a bit. Look Ma! Alligator skin. *grinning*
I also sent two short stories into an anthology. And I submitted a first chapter over at Romance Junkies in their contest. I REALLY hope that one does well. It's the first chapter of my FBS, and I have high hopes. But if it doesn't end up in front of Tova, well, then it sure as hell will end up in front of someone else.
Yes, I have balls of brass today. They're a little unwieldy, but I could get used to it.
Grins*
Sunday, June 05, 2005
School's out for the Summer-or is it?
Back when I was a wee chickie, I wanted to be a teacher. I've always had an affinity for office supplies, and I thought teaching would be a good way to be on the inside of that. *snickering*
Okay, not really. I had wonderful teachers in my first and third grade years. My first-grade teacher enabled me to skip second grade because of my reading level. My third-grade teacher stepped up and included me in the class and made me feel welcome. They'll always hold a special place for me.
So during the summers, I teach my chickens. We go over things I think they'll need for the next year. I make sure they keep their skills up. My kids are stair-steps, so I pretty much know the curriculum and basics I'm looking at. We don't do schoolwork everyday. BORING
But we do go at it twice a week for a couple of hours. And today is the day we're starting their work. Baby chicken has already been in here four times wondering when we're starting. She is KILLING me. *laughing* Others are not so enthused.
When I'm done with them, I'll continue working on my FBS.
Lazy Sunday?
Not hardly.
Grins*
Okay, not really. I had wonderful teachers in my first and third grade years. My first-grade teacher enabled me to skip second grade because of my reading level. My third-grade teacher stepped up and included me in the class and made me feel welcome. They'll always hold a special place for me.
So during the summers, I teach my chickens. We go over things I think they'll need for the next year. I make sure they keep their skills up. My kids are stair-steps, so I pretty much know the curriculum and basics I'm looking at. We don't do schoolwork everyday. BORING
But we do go at it twice a week for a couple of hours. And today is the day we're starting their work. Baby chicken has already been in here four times wondering when we're starting. She is KILLING me. *laughing* Others are not so enthused.
When I'm done with them, I'll continue working on my FBS.
Lazy Sunday?
Not hardly.
Grins*
Saturday, June 04, 2005
Writus Schizophrenus
Writus Schizophrenus: n. (def.) The abililty or disability of a writer to write on three or more different projects at one time. Symptoms may include irritability, loss of memory, and talking to oneself. antonym-having one's sh*t together.
I've been diagnosed. HA!
Today was the day to work on several different items. I stumbled upon (re: bloghopped until I found it) a Romance Junkies contest. The top three chapters chosen by submittants are going to be read by Tova Sacks of Berkley. Exciting? OMG
Just a little.
I also worked on two shorts for an anthology. Right now, I'm working on the chapter I'll be sending into the contest.
The chickens have tended to the yard. YAY! Right now, they're in the living room inhaling popcorn and M & M's while watching "Oceans Eleven" and "Oceans Twelve." They're taping it for Mama.
Tomorrow I'm cracking the educational whip and going over things I don't want them to backslide on over the summer: multiplication, division, fractions, and reading comprehension. I'm sure they'll thank me for it. Um...someday.
Grins*
I've been diagnosed. HA!
Today was the day to work on several different items. I stumbled upon (re: bloghopped until I found it) a Romance Junkies contest. The top three chapters chosen by submittants are going to be read by Tova Sacks of Berkley. Exciting? OMG
Just a little.
I also worked on two shorts for an anthology. Right now, I'm working on the chapter I'll be sending into the contest.
The chickens have tended to the yard. YAY! Right now, they're in the living room inhaling popcorn and M & M's while watching "Oceans Eleven" and "Oceans Twelve." They're taping it for Mama.
Tomorrow I'm cracking the educational whip and going over things I don't want them to backslide on over the summer: multiplication, division, fractions, and reading comprehension. I'm sure they'll thank me for it. Um...someday.
Grins*
Foiled again
My horoscope for the day:
Chrys,You are not to be messed with now, for you have your work in front of you and you're not going to let anything prevent you from accomplishing your goals. The problem is that you may have some conflicts in dealing with others who think you are applying your energy in a wrong direction. Remember, it's better in the long run to have people around you who can stand up to your authority than to have silent compliance from those who have no respect for you.
I guess this blows my "bend to my will, and no one gets hurt" thing right out of the water. *laughing*
I really like the first sentence. I do feel rather strongly about putting my butt in gear today. And I think I've scared everyone around here sufficiently so they only bother me when there's something DIRE going on. You know: fights or food.
And I'm thinking, they can stand up to me all they want. Everyone has their own opinion. It's healthy. It's human nature. So, I suppose I'll listen if someone wants to chime in with their two cents. And then I'll go back to typing.
Grins*
Chrys,You are not to be messed with now, for you have your work in front of you and you're not going to let anything prevent you from accomplishing your goals. The problem is that you may have some conflicts in dealing with others who think you are applying your energy in a wrong direction. Remember, it's better in the long run to have people around you who can stand up to your authority than to have silent compliance from those who have no respect for you.
I guess this blows my "bend to my will, and no one gets hurt" thing right out of the water. *laughing*
I really like the first sentence. I do feel rather strongly about putting my butt in gear today. And I think I've scared everyone around here sufficiently so they only bother me when there's something DIRE going on. You know: fights or food.
And I'm thinking, they can stand up to me all they want. Everyone has their own opinion. It's healthy. It's human nature. So, I suppose I'll listen if someone wants to chime in with their two cents. And then I'll go back to typing.
Grins*
Friday, June 03, 2005
Put me in the pool
We bought a 4 ft. by 18 ft. aboveground pool. Now we simply need the sand. Unfortuately, the truck is on the skids right now. It's only $140 to have the sand people bring 12 TONS. Yep, 12 tons. I told the guy I didn't need to landscape my yard in sand. He found that entertaining. If we go get a truckload, it's $12. See the problem?
Now, we must figure out how to get the sand here so that I may throw the chickens in the pool. I'm still pondering this one. I'll keep you posted.
Kids have been decent today. There has been no bloodshed. Manners have been used. We even picked up the yard a bit. All in all, not a bad day whatsoever. Tomorrow is more work on the heathen bathroom. ACK!
Hope your Friday was a keeper. Sympathies if it wasn't.
Grins*
Now, we must figure out how to get the sand here so that I may throw the chickens in the pool. I'm still pondering this one. I'll keep you posted.
Kids have been decent today. There has been no bloodshed. Manners have been used. We even picked up the yard a bit. All in all, not a bad day whatsoever. Tomorrow is more work on the heathen bathroom. ACK!
Hope your Friday was a keeper. Sympathies if it wasn't.
Grins*
Thursday, June 02, 2005
Peek in my bedroom
This is the newest quiz floating around. It's about sex. I think we all knew I couldn't resist this one. And without further ado:
| How You Really Feel About Sex |
Your desire is best described as anticipatory.You need 20 minutes of foreplay.During sex, you feel exhilirated.At orgasm, you think "Hell Yes!".At orgasm, you say "Woohoo!".Your ideal sexual experience is phenomenal.After sex, you'd like your partner to tell you "Damn Fine Job". http://www.quizdiva.com/reallyfeelaboutsexquiz/ After puttering around the site and taking numerous other quizzes...I now know how good my orgasms are, what sex toy I am, and my Kinsey number. I am, however, drawing the line. Sometimes I share too much. Heh |
Domestic duties
I snarfled a book and a half last night. It was glorious.
I went to town a few minutes ago and picked up my business cards. Business cards. I almost shed a tear. Almost. *grinning*
I need to clean my house. Period. Exclamation point. I kid you not.
Dishes are done. Everything else? *snorting* The word horrific comes to mind. Abominable is a close second.
The chickens are all boogered up with their books. Since the library trip yesterday, I told them NO TV this morning. And they've been reading. I love it.
Lunch is now. And then to cleaning. I need to sort receipts and stuff. File papers. And all those mundane tasks I put off while I'm manically (maniacally?) writing. heh
I'll check back in later. Mebbe. There's unfortunately an "outside" to this equation. Oh man. My yard needs serious TLC.
Grins*
I went to town a few minutes ago and picked up my business cards. Business cards. I almost shed a tear. Almost. *grinning*
I need to clean my house. Period. Exclamation point. I kid you not.
Dishes are done. Everything else? *snorting* The word horrific comes to mind. Abominable is a close second.
The chickens are all boogered up with their books. Since the library trip yesterday, I told them NO TV this morning. And they've been reading. I love it.
Lunch is now. And then to cleaning. I need to sort receipts and stuff. File papers. And all those mundane tasks I put off while I'm manically (maniacally?) writing. heh
I'll check back in later. Mebbe. There's unfortunately an "outside" to this equation. Oh man. My yard needs serious TLC.
Grins*
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
When the stars line up
I was going to pack it in and inhale my books when I realized I needed to make a few blog stops first. And man, it was excellent! I'm so happy for all of you!
Check out http://www.jillshalvis.com/blog/ to see Jill's news.
And http://www.suzannemcminn.com/blog/ for Suzanne's news.
And then there's http://alisonkent.com/blog/ to see what Alison is stunned about.
And last but certainly not least http://ginasramblings.blogspot.com/
I am beaming over here. Ear to ear. With all the crap being shuffled about the negativities of publishing/reading/writing I really wanted to note the good stuff. Some of the best stuff.
And I think to myself...what a wonderful world.
Grins*
Check out http://www.jillshalvis.com/blog/ to see Jill's news.
And http://www.suzannemcminn.com/blog/ for Suzanne's news.
And then there's http://alisonkent.com/blog/ to see what Alison is stunned about.
And last but certainly not least http://ginasramblings.blogspot.com/
I am beaming over here. Ear to ear. With all the crap being shuffled about the negativities of publishing/reading/writing I really wanted to note the good stuff. Some of the best stuff.
And I think to myself...what a wonderful world.
Grins*
Book Orgy
I'm having a book orgy.
I went to the local library and picked up four books. Two Jennifer Weiner and two JD Robb. I am writhing in ecstasy here.
I can't see any of my kitchen cabinets. Every counter in my house is full to overflowing. I need to do dishes. Put up laundry. Run the vacuum. And various other crap.
Screw it.
And I mean it.
I'm going to eat junk food and immerse myself in the pleasure of words. Wrap myself in them. Calgon doesn't have ANYTHING on reading.
Ooooooooooooooooooooo
Bring it on.
Grins*
I went to the local library and picked up four books. Two Jennifer Weiner and two JD Robb. I am writhing in ecstasy here.
I can't see any of my kitchen cabinets. Every counter in my house is full to overflowing. I need to do dishes. Put up laundry. Run the vacuum. And various other crap.
Screw it.
And I mean it.
I'm going to eat junk food and immerse myself in the pleasure of words. Wrap myself in them. Calgon doesn't have ANYTHING on reading.
Ooooooooooooooooooooo
Bring it on.
Grins*
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