When I decided to write a middle grade book, I knew it would be on another planet. I just didn’t know what the planet would look like or where it would be.
Who knew coming up with a new world would be so hard.
My first step was to Google world building. This mini search helped a lot to steer me in the right direction.
The Beginning – How does your world begin? Do they believe in a God or higher being? What is their history?
What does the world look like? – Do you have an idea of what the world looks like, what it is made up, what type of weather does it have?
Who lives on the world? – What beings live there? What do they look like?
What is their culture? – What do they speak, eat, or do?
What are their economics? – Do they have money, do they trade?
Do they have a government?
Seems like simple questions, but they are not. They can be very difficult. The good thing for me is that I’m enjoying building my new world. Finding out what the people like and what makes their world has been fun. It’s like building Superman’s home.
What are your experiences with world building?
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Friday, February 26, 2010
1000 Gifts: For These, I'm Grateful
I was visiting a friend’s Dina Dyer's blog and she was blogging about this and I decided I wanted to join her in writing about my 1000 gifts. Some days we take things for granted, so I want to see if I can come up with 1000 gifts too.
Here's my first 25: 975 to go
1. A good husband
2. Healthy children
3. Home
4. Car
5. Job
6. Mother
7. Sisters
8. Brother-in-Laws
9. A new sister
10. Books
11. computers
12. t.v.
13. Authors
14. imagination
15. A three year old who makes me laugh
16. MCM – Mother’s Group
17. My church
18. My pastor
19. The ability to read
20. Libraries
21. Movies
22. Lazy days
23. Swings
24. Ice Cream
25. The Navy
26. Walks in the park
27. Conversations with my favorite authors
28. Writing Buddies – Ann, Patricia, Marilynn, Rhonda, Ms. Linda
29. SORMAG
30. Color of Love Hotties – Thanks for sharing my love of romance books
31. Children who enjoy reading
32. A Husband who enjoys being a father
33. A forgiving God
34. Carrying my children full term – The experience was priceless
35. Breastfeeding
36. Sisters who are my friends
37. A mother who is my friend
38. A job that I enjoy
39. Friends at work
40. A car that runs
41. Pizza so I don’t have to cook
42. A dishwasher so don’t have to wash dishes
43. Washing machine because you don’t appreciate it until its broke
44. Willie Mae Johnson – You taught me how to be a lady.
45. Kelly Brown – Your were more than an uncle, you were my big brother
46. Anthony Baisy – My navy buddy turned my best friend
47. Lucille Frazier – Thanks for being my grandmother
48. Writing - I so enjoy it
49. Mothers of the church who continue to teach me how to be a good mother
50. Librarians
I’ll be add more through out the year.
Do you have 1000 gifts your thankful for?
Here's my first 25: 975 to go
1. A good husband
2. Healthy children
3. Home
4. Car
5. Job
6. Mother
7. Sisters
8. Brother-in-Laws
9. A new sister
10. Books
11. computers
12. t.v.
13. Authors
14. imagination
15. A three year old who makes me laugh
16. MCM – Mother’s Group
17. My church
18. My pastor
19. The ability to read
20. Libraries
21. Movies
22. Lazy days
23. Swings
24. Ice Cream
25. The Navy
26. Walks in the park
27. Conversations with my favorite authors
28. Writing Buddies – Ann, Patricia, Marilynn, Rhonda, Ms. Linda
29. SORMAG
30. Color of Love Hotties – Thanks for sharing my love of romance books
31. Children who enjoy reading
32. A Husband who enjoys being a father
33. A forgiving God
34. Carrying my children full term – The experience was priceless
35. Breastfeeding
36. Sisters who are my friends
37. A mother who is my friend
38. A job that I enjoy
39. Friends at work
40. A car that runs
41. Pizza so I don’t have to cook
42. A dishwasher so don’t have to wash dishes
43. Washing machine because you don’t appreciate it until its broke
44. Willie Mae Johnson – You taught me how to be a lady.
45. Kelly Brown – Your were more than an uncle, you were my big brother
46. Anthony Baisy – My navy buddy turned my best friend
47. Lucille Frazier – Thanks for being my grandmother
48. Writing - I so enjoy it
49. Mothers of the church who continue to teach me how to be a good mother
50. Librarians
I’ll be add more through out the year.
Do you have 1000 gifts your thankful for?
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Dreams That Won't Let Go Blog Tour
Stacy Hawkins Adams is a nationally-published, award-winning author and speaker. Her contemporary women’s fiction novels are filled with social themes and spiritual quests that take readers on journeys into their own souls.
She holds a degree in journalism and served as a newspaper reporter for more than a decade before turning her full attention to penning books, speaking professionally and writing freelance articles.
Stacy lives in a suburb of Richmond, Virginia with her husband and two young children. Visit Stacy online at stacyhawkinsadams.com.
About the Book
Indigo Burns is excited. Her wedding preparations to the man of her dreams are underway, her photography career is a success, and her family seems to be doing better than ever—all except her brother Reuben, who nobody has seen in years. But that’s about to change.
When Reuben decides to move back home to Jubilant, Texas, he hopes to find healing with his sisters. But Indigo isn’t so sure their relationship can be mended. And when younger sister Yasmin makes a life-altering choice, it seems like only a miracle can put the Burns family back together.
Will these siblings – and the rest of their family - ever be able to love unconditionally and release each other to live their dreams?
Dreams That Won’t Let Go GIVEAWAY!
WIN a set of signed books from the Jubilant Soul Series AND a free one-hour session with Helena Nyman, an executive coach.
Answer the following question in the comment section to be eligible for the giveaway.
What dreams are simmering in your heart and waiting to be birthed?
Visit the full blog tour schedule and read an excerpt at http://bit.ly/DreamsThatWontLetGo
STOP BY SORMAG's BLOG TODAY TO READ THE INTERVIEW - http://sormag.blogspot.com
Thursday, February 04, 2010
Accountability Partner
My friend Patricia has an accountability partner. I’ve been thinking about one but I don’t know if I’m ready for one since some days I can’t depend on me. LOL.
Writing is something I enjoy, when it becomes a chore I stop writing. I’m afraid if I get a partner it will feel like a chore instead of being something I enjoy.
I don’t have a partner but I do have a few writing buddies, who pop in on me when I need that push. Rhonda, Mary, Patricia, Ms. Linda waving at you. You don’t know it but your emails show up when I most need them. I know that’s God, stirring up the pot, saying, LaShaunda I got your back and so do your friends.
Thank you ladies for being my unofficial accountability partners and helping me stay positive on this journey.
I’m inspired to keep on this path because some day it does end up with your name on it. Marilyn, Linda and Rhonda are my living testimonies that it can happen.
Do you have a partner who pulls you through your writing?
Writing is something I enjoy, when it becomes a chore I stop writing. I’m afraid if I get a partner it will feel like a chore instead of being something I enjoy.
I don’t have a partner but I do have a few writing buddies, who pop in on me when I need that push. Rhonda, Mary, Patricia, Ms. Linda waving at you. You don’t know it but your emails show up when I most need them. I know that’s God, stirring up the pot, saying, LaShaunda I got your back and so do your friends.
Thank you ladies for being my unofficial accountability partners and helping me stay positive on this journey.
I’m inspired to keep on this path because some day it does end up with your name on it. Marilyn, Linda and Rhonda are my living testimonies that it can happen.
Do you have a partner who pulls you through your writing?
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
E BOOKS - Yes/No
I haven’t jumped on the ebook boat mainly because of cost and because the books I read weren’t in ebook form. However things are changing and lot of books are going the ebook route.
The IPad is the new toy on the market and I’m interested, but I’ve learned to wait on the next generation instead of the first model. I like for them to get as many bugs out as possible before I decided. Also I still haven’t found out if you can type your manuscripts on them.
I was reading on Rachelle Gardner’s blog about ebooks and she mentioned that you really don’t own the ebooks. The Kindle has the capability to take the books back. WHAT?
I know you don’t suppose to be able to share them, but when do they actually become your book and if you’re basically just renting, why the high cost? Shouldn’t there be a discount for these compared to the regular prices?
I know a few of you have the ereaders. What do you think about the prices of ebooks? Did you know that you didn’t own the book?
The IPad is the new toy on the market and I’m interested, but I’ve learned to wait on the next generation instead of the first model. I like for them to get as many bugs out as possible before I decided. Also I still haven’t found out if you can type your manuscripts on them.
I was reading on Rachelle Gardner’s blog about ebooks and she mentioned that you really don’t own the ebooks. The Kindle has the capability to take the books back. WHAT?
I know you don’t suppose to be able to share them, but when do they actually become your book and if you’re basically just renting, why the high cost? Shouldn’t there be a discount for these compared to the regular prices?
I know a few of you have the ereaders. What do you think about the prices of ebooks? Did you know that you didn’t own the book?
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Comfort Zone
My new WIP is a middle grade book set on another planet. Yes you heard me right, another planet. I’m learning how to build worlds. It’s interesting because there are no rules, I can do whatever I want on this planet. I want to make it unique and I decided to have it a little different from earth. It will have two suns and be more desert like. The best part, the people are purple. Yeah I said purple.
When I first saw the trailer for Avatar I almost fell out of my chair. The people were blue. I couldn’t believe it. I called my daughter up because she’s helping me write the story and I said I just saw some blue people. I thought it was a sign from God that my purple people would be OK.
This is a different experience for me because I'm writing in a different genre, different age market, with characters that aren’t human, and I love it.
Sometimes you have to get out your comfort zone.
How have you stepped out of your comfort zone?
When I first saw the trailer for Avatar I almost fell out of my chair. The people were blue. I couldn’t believe it. I called my daughter up because she’s helping me write the story and I said I just saw some blue people. I thought it was a sign from God that my purple people would be OK.
This is a different experience for me because I'm writing in a different genre, different age market, with characters that aren’t human, and I love it.
Sometimes you have to get out your comfort zone.
How have you stepped out of your comfort zone?
photo from iStockPhoto.com
Friday, January 22, 2010
What happens to a dream deferred?
On Saturday night I found out what happens to a dream deferred it sits in your heart waiting on you to open it back up.
As a child I wanted to be a pastry chef. I planned on going to Paris and study with the best of the best. I even took French hoping to learn the language. Instead I joined the Navy and while in the Navy I talked to the cooks who discouraged me on being a chef. Long hours, never see your family and you get fat. I was young and I didn’t realize that sometimes you sacrifice things to become what you want. So I pushed that dream to the back and moved on to something else, my second passion, writing.
My soon to be three year old is crazy about the movie, The Mummy. He’s probably watched it a million times. He said for his birthday he wanted a mummy cake. I went on the hunt online to see if I could find a mummy cake I could duplicate. I found a few pictures and bought all my ingredients for the cake. Most of the pictures used fondant to wrap the mummy, but since I didn’t have any experience with fondant I decided to use icing instead.
As I worked on the cake, those old feeling floated up to the surface. What if I’d studied in France and learned from the masters? Would I be working for the government? Would I have my own cake decorating business? Would I have tons of experience with fondant the new cake sensation?
I hate what if questions because you can’t answer them. I know that the dream is still there and that I can do something about it. I’m going to look into taking some classes in cake decorating and baking. At least I’ll complete the dream and there won’t be any more what ifs.
What dream have you deferred?
As a child I wanted to be a pastry chef. I planned on going to Paris and study with the best of the best. I even took French hoping to learn the language. Instead I joined the Navy and while in the Navy I talked to the cooks who discouraged me on being a chef. Long hours, never see your family and you get fat. I was young and I didn’t realize that sometimes you sacrifice things to become what you want. So I pushed that dream to the back and moved on to something else, my second passion, writing.
My soon to be three year old is crazy about the movie, The Mummy. He’s probably watched it a million times. He said for his birthday he wanted a mummy cake. I went on the hunt online to see if I could find a mummy cake I could duplicate. I found a few pictures and bought all my ingredients for the cake. Most of the pictures used fondant to wrap the mummy, but since I didn’t have any experience with fondant I decided to use icing instead.
As I worked on the cake, those old feeling floated up to the surface. What if I’d studied in France and learned from the masters? Would I be working for the government? Would I have my own cake decorating business? Would I have tons of experience with fondant the new cake sensation?
I hate what if questions because you can’t answer them. I know that the dream is still there and that I can do something about it. I’m going to look into taking some classes in cake decorating and baking. At least I’ll complete the dream and there won’t be any more what ifs.
What dream have you deferred?
Thursday, January 21, 2010
The Mummy Cake
My son wanted a mummy cake for his birthday.
Here's how it turned out.
The Mummy Cake Plain
The Mummy Cake crumbed icing
The Mummy Cake with it first mummy stripes
The Mummy Cake with more mummy stripes
The Mummy Cake almost done
The Mummy Cake completed
Happy Customer
Happy Birthday Boy
Thursday, January 14, 2010
FLASHBACK: VOWS by Rochelle Alers
FROM THIS DAY FORWARD......
On a well-deserved vacation in exotic Mexico, sensible, pratical accountant Vanessa Blanchard allows a maelstrom of desire to turn her world upside down. She's not sure why she dared to trust gorgeous, mysterious Joshua Kirkland, a man who revealed very little about his past...or their future together. All she knows is that she fell in love with a man who made her his, and then disappeared without a trace. Now Joshua haunts her days with desperate questions and torments her sleepless nights with remembered ecstasy.
But Joshua Kirkland hasn't abandoned the woman he branded with his passion. Though his mission began as a game of seduction fueled by suspicion, it has now turned into a daring race to confront the deadly danger that threatens the love of a lifetime...and the woman he loves.
This book sealed my love for romances. I fell in love with Joshua Kirkland as I read each page and from then on, I judged other heros by him. It was hard to find another hero worthy of him. I will say, Dix Wildhorse gave him a run for his money, but that's another flashback for later.
Did you miss this book? Pick up your copy TODAY.
Which hero did you fall in love with?
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Snowed In
Last week St. Louis was hit with it first snow storm. Everything was covered with this beautiful blanket of snow. The best part was no work or school. Four lovely days stuck in the house with my family.
It wasn’t as bad as you would think. We had a wii competition and I enjoyed a lot of my favorite movies. As Good as it Gets, Five Heartbeats, Sleepless in Seattle. I watched a few new movies, 9 an interesting animated movie. 9th District that was a weird movie and the latest Harry Potter which I enjoyed for the second time.
During the storm an irate employee shot up his workplace. It was sad to hear about someone so upset he thought his only choice was to kill those he worked with. My prayers went out to the families who had to deal with this tragedy.
In five days my little one will turn 3 on Thursday evening he shocked us all by announcing he had to go pee. The hubby jumped up and took him to the bathroom. He came out and we all did the pee pee in the potty dance. If you don’t know this dance that means you haven’t been on the potty training adventure.
I’m so proud of this little one because he has been fighting going to the potty for a while and my pocket book has been suffering with all those pampers I have to buy. He hasn’t stopped going to the bathroom, so it looks like he will turn 3 as a potty trained little boy.
Yes I did get some writing in, even though my laptop decided to die. The laptop refuses to acknowledge the adapter plug. Since I don’t have a warranty it will cost 350.00 or more to replace the motherboard. Now if I had 350.00 I’d just go look for a new laptop. I’m just sick because this one is only a year old.
I was able to use my hubby’s computer to work on my middle grade book. It seems to be coming along well. I just might be making my first draft goal.
Now you see what happen to me during my snow in.
What did you do?
Photo supplied by http://freefoto.com
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
2010 Goals
I’m ready for the new year. I have a new book floating in my head, so I know I’ll be doing a lot of writing this year. I have a book almost done, so I know there will be a lot of revision and I have a book that’s in the final stage of revision, so I’ll finally be able to be DONE.
This year I’m doing things different. I’m writing instead of just talking about it. I’m good at talking about it, but you can’t finish the book talking about it.
Last year was a very stressful year. I let that get in the way of my writing. I didn’t focus on my writing because my mind was in chaos.
This year I’m getting past the chaos and focusing on what’s important to me. Writing is important to me.
Goals
Write First Draft of Middle Grade Book --April 1, 2010
Complete Second Draft of TRUST --February 1, 2010
Complete Final Draft of WAITING --March 1, 2010
This year I’m doing things different. I’m writing instead of just talking about it. I’m good at talking about it, but you can’t finish the book talking about it.
Last year was a very stressful year. I let that get in the way of my writing. I didn’t focus on my writing because my mind was in chaos.
This year I’m getting past the chaos and focusing on what’s important to me. Writing is important to me.
Goals
Write First Draft of Middle Grade Book --April 1, 2010
Complete Second Draft of TRUST --February 1, 2010
Complete Final Draft of WAITING --March 1, 2010
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Questions for 2009
One of my favorite bloggers, Mike Hyatt had these questions to ask yourself for 2009. There were 7 questions.
If the last year were a movie of your life, what would the genre be?
Drama, romance, adventure, comedy, tragedy, or a combination?
Mine would be a combination of all. I had a little of everything hit me this year.
This year my God grandmother passed which was really hard after losing my aunt in September, These two ladies had touched my life in so many ways.
I never dreamed that I’d see a Black President and this year it came true.
The most devastating part of 2009 was losing Michael Jackson. I know for some he was just another celebrity but for me, he was like a cousin. When I think of music that inspired my life, MJ's name popped up. My first concert was the Jackson 5. I still get misty eyed just thinking about him.
Facebook reintroduced me to a lot of old friends and family. I think it was one of the best things I did this year.
What were the two or three major themes that kept recurring? These can be single words or phrases.
Family, living in the now
What did you accomplish this past year that you are the most proud of? These can be in any area of your life—spiritual, relational, vocational physical, etc. Be as specific as possible.
Reconnecting with my younger sister, who I’d been trying to find for years. It has been a blessing being able to talk with her via the internet. I’ve enjoyed our chats and emails. We have a lot in common and I look forward to meeting her in person next year.
Going to a marriage counselor, it really helped me with my marriage and showed me a lot about me as a person, wife, mother and caregiver.
Stepping past fear and letting others read my stories and entering a contest with one.
If the last year were a movie of your life, what would the genre be?
Drama, romance, adventure, comedy, tragedy, or a combination?
Mine would be a combination of all. I had a little of everything hit me this year.
This year my God grandmother passed which was really hard after losing my aunt in September, These two ladies had touched my life in so many ways.
I never dreamed that I’d see a Black President and this year it came true.
The most devastating part of 2009 was losing Michael Jackson. I know for some he was just another celebrity but for me, he was like a cousin. When I think of music that inspired my life, MJ's name popped up. My first concert was the Jackson 5. I still get misty eyed just thinking about him.
Facebook reintroduced me to a lot of old friends and family. I think it was one of the best things I did this year.
What were the two or three major themes that kept recurring? These can be single words or phrases.
Family, living in the now
What did you accomplish this past year that you are the most proud of? These can be in any area of your life—spiritual, relational, vocational physical, etc. Be as specific as possible.
Reconnecting with my younger sister, who I’d been trying to find for years. It has been a blessing being able to talk with her via the internet. I’ve enjoyed our chats and emails. We have a lot in common and I look forward to meeting her in person next year.
Going to a marriage counselor, it really helped me with my marriage and showed me a lot about me as a person, wife, mother and caregiver.
Stepping past fear and letting others read my stories and entering a contest with one.
Reconnecting with God. I was burnt out this year, I’d stop going to church, I resigned from children church. I thought I’d lost myself. However the Lord spoke to me daily and let me know that I wasn’t alone. I wasn’t fellowshipping with a church, but I was growing closer with him. I prayed more and I had deep conversations with him and he let me see that I did need fellowshipping to complete me. Now I’m ready to serve again and I know he will find a place for me.
What was missing from last year as you look back? Again, look at each major area of your life. Don’t focus now on having to do anything about it. For now, just list each item.
*Having more ME time. I’m learning to take time for me. I can’t be superwoman
*Making time to write and write, not just thinking about it
*Reading more for pleasure, I miss reading for me
*Date time with the hubby, I regret letting him say no when he should have said yes to our quality time together.
*Exercising, I’ve let myself go and it’s showing in the tight clothes.
*Quality time with God
What were the major life-lessons you learned this past year?
Life is short, enjoy every moment. Enjoy today.
Live your dream
Stay positive
Never let go of God's hands, even through the burnt out times. That's when you need him the most.
Friday, December 18, 2009
BLOG TOUR: 40 Loaves
Why don’t I have more faith?
Why am I so bored with Jesus?
Why don’t I feel connected at church?
These are the types of questions the religious establishment often makes it uncomfortable, if not impossible, to ask. And by asking them, C. David Baker, author of 40 Loaves: Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day hopes to start a conversation in people’s hearts, then with others, and ultimately with God. Many circles of Christianity have led us to believe that certainty and confidence are the proof of true spirituality; questions are discouraged.
But Jesus offered his followers an ongoing conversation—a relationship built around a free, open-ended discussion. Questions were encouraged. They were often impertinent, sometimes alarming, and the religious establishment was distinctly uncomfortable with them … just as it is today.
“40 Loaves is something of a collection of the kinds of questions I felt finally free to ask of myself and of my relationship with Christ,” says Baker. “It’s my belief that these questions are shared by many others who long for the freedom to simply ask them out loud. I hope this book becomes a platform that frees others to search their hearts more deeply and be fed with the Bread of life.”
Each “loaf” here is a big question that stimulates discussion, investigation, and contemplation; it will take hours—or days—to digest. Conversational, inviting, disarming, and real, 40 Loaves nourishes self-examination and offers validation for those who feel discouraged, guilty, or even shamed when the realities of their lives don’t match up with the ideals of the Christian establishment.
C. David Baker founded an award-winning business before redirecting his career to write full-time from his small farm in Bucks County , Pennsylvania . He is the author of eight books, including six novels, one of which was nominated for a Christy Award. He has contributed articles to the Christian History Institute’s international publication Glimpses, and to Christian Singles magazine. Baker has a Master’s degree in theological studies from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland .
I'm currently reading this devotion and it is hitting the spot. Asking the hard questions that are on your mind. Mr. Baker answers the question and uses scriptures to show you why. This is a different type of devotional but one I believe would make a perfect gift for the believer or nonbeliever. I'm looking forward to finishing the book and will post an update.
Why am I so bored with Jesus?
Why don’t I feel connected at church?
These are the types of questions the religious establishment often makes it uncomfortable, if not impossible, to ask. And by asking them, C. David Baker, author of 40 Loaves: Breaking Bread with Our Father Each Day hopes to start a conversation in people’s hearts, then with others, and ultimately with God. Many circles of Christianity have led us to believe that certainty and confidence are the proof of true spirituality; questions are discouraged.
But Jesus offered his followers an ongoing conversation—a relationship built around a free, open-ended discussion. Questions were encouraged. They were often impertinent, sometimes alarming, and the religious establishment was distinctly uncomfortable with them … just as it is today.
“40 Loaves is something of a collection of the kinds of questions I felt finally free to ask of myself and of my relationship with Christ,” says Baker. “It’s my belief that these questions are shared by many others who long for the freedom to simply ask them out loud. I hope this book becomes a platform that frees others to search their hearts more deeply and be fed with the Bread of life.”
Each “loaf” here is a big question that stimulates discussion, investigation, and contemplation; it will take hours—or days—to digest. Conversational, inviting, disarming, and real, 40 Loaves nourishes self-examination and offers validation for those who feel discouraged, guilty, or even shamed when the realities of their lives don’t match up with the ideals of the Christian establishment.
C. David Baker founded an award-winning business before redirecting his career to write full-time from his small farm in Bucks County , Pennsylvania . He is the author of eight books, including six novels, one of which was nominated for a Christy Award. He has contributed articles to the Christian History Institute’s international publication Glimpses, and to Christian Singles magazine. Baker has a Master’s degree in theological studies from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland .
I'm currently reading this devotion and it is hitting the spot. Asking the hard questions that are on your mind. Mr. Baker answers the question and uses scriptures to show you why. This is a different type of devotional but one I believe would make a perfect gift for the believer or nonbeliever. I'm looking forward to finishing the book and will post an update.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
15 Minutes
When I took up Patricia’s challenge, I just knew I would have time to write. I usually do a lot of my writing when the kids are asleep. However this past week I was so exhausted from the day, that I didn’t get any writing done. I was able to type about 500 words for last week and that was it.
I decided yesterday that I would try writing in chunks, 15 minute chunks. At work I get two 15 minute breaks so I’m using that time to write. I know I won't get a lot done but I’m trying to finish up, not stop writing.
December is a hard time to write because there are so many things happening during this time. Parties, shopping, gift wrapping, visiting with friends. Since I’m not on deadline, I have the luxury of writing when I want, but if I were on deadline, I would have to find time to squeeze in my writing.
I’ll let you know how my 15 minutes is working.
What about you, how do you find time to write during the holiday season?
I decided yesterday that I would try writing in chunks, 15 minute chunks. At work I get two 15 minute breaks so I’m using that time to write. I know I won't get a lot done but I’m trying to finish up, not stop writing.
December is a hard time to write because there are so many things happening during this time. Parties, shopping, gift wrapping, visiting with friends. Since I’m not on deadline, I have the luxury of writing when I want, but if I were on deadline, I would have to find time to squeeze in my writing.
I’ll let you know how my 15 minutes is working.
What about you, how do you find time to write during the holiday season?
Friday, December 04, 2009
Hickory Farms Blog Tour
When I think of Hickory Farms at this time of year, I think about cheese and summer sausage. When I was asked to review one of their gift packages, I was happy to do so, because I’ve always enjoyed their treats.
The package arrived and my two year old brought it in to me. He was excited because it was a box and he wanted to know what was inside. I told him we’d have a picnic with what was inside.
I spread a blanket on the floor and together we opened the package.
Beef Hickory Sampler Gift - $15.00
Includes:
- 5 oz. Beef Summer Sausage
- 4 oz. Hickory Cheddar Blend
- 2 oz. Italian Herb & Cheese Spread
- 2.25 oz. Sweet Hot Mustard
- .5 oz. Cracked Wheat Crackers
- Wt. .8 lbs
I covered the crackers with cheese and top them off with a slice of summer sausage and we had a little feast.
I always enjoy Hickory Farm summer sausage and I wasn't disappointed this time. The cheese spreads were good to. My son liked the sausage but didn't care too much for the cheese. I think I will be adding one of these gift packages to my Christmas Wish list.
These gift samplers make wonderful gifts for friends and family. If you like hot and spicy mustard this one is the one to pick up.
Enjoy
Check them out http://www.hickoryfarms.com/
I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Hickory Farms and received a Hickory Farms gift basket to facilitate my review." http://www.momcentral.com/
The package arrived and my two year old brought it in to me. He was excited because it was a box and he wanted to know what was inside. I told him we’d have a picnic with what was inside.
I spread a blanket on the floor and together we opened the package.
Beef Hickory Sampler Gift - $15.00
Includes:
- 5 oz. Beef Summer Sausage
- 4 oz. Hickory Cheddar Blend
- 2 oz. Italian Herb & Cheese Spread
- 2.25 oz. Sweet Hot Mustard
- .5 oz. Cracked Wheat Crackers
- Wt. .8 lbs
I covered the crackers with cheese and top them off with a slice of summer sausage and we had a little feast.
I always enjoy Hickory Farm summer sausage and I wasn't disappointed this time. The cheese spreads were good to. My son liked the sausage but didn't care too much for the cheese. I think I will be adding one of these gift packages to my Christmas Wish list.
These gift samplers make wonderful gifts for friends and family. If you like hot and spicy mustard this one is the one to pick up.
Enjoy
Check them out http://www.hickoryfarms.com/
I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Hickory Farms and received a Hickory Farms gift basket to facilitate my review." http://www.momcentral.com/
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
BOOK IN A MONTH - Final
I decided to try to do the book in a month for November only I crafted it for me instead of following the rules.
I only wrote during the week and left the weekends off for the family, which cut down on my thirty days. I didn’t beat myself up if I didn’t feel like writing. I decided to just write and let the muse flow.
I set a goal of writing seven pages of day. I had 15 days to work, because I knew nothing was going to get done the week of Thanksgiving. Some days were a breeze, some days I didn’t want to write at all. I think I had a whole week I didn’t do anything. However I didn’t stress about it. I was writing again and that was most important.
I didn’t reach my goal of 105 pages. I ended up writing 60 pages – 10, 704 words.
Which means to me I’m about two months away from finishing this book. WOO HOO!
I learned a lot with this experience. I can reach my daily writing goals when I have to.
I wanted to know how long it would take me to write a book and this page goal helped me to see how to break the book down into a monthly figure. So I could write a book in about 8 mths if I worked hard at it. That’s not too bad. One book a year. My ultimate goal is to write two books a year. I think that’s possible if I wrote two genres, which I’ve been doing for years. (I’m working on a middle grade book too. I’ll tell you about that one later.)
I learned more about my characters and what their motivations are.
The most important lesson, that it’s best to write and edit later. In my writing stage, I just let the words flow, I didn’t try to figure out what I did or why. When I’m in editing mode sometimes I lose my muse because I’m trying to figure things out. You can’t worry about figuring things out when you’re in the writing mode.
Now I’m in editing stage and I’m hoping to take those 60 pages and change them into 120 pages.
How did you do with your book?
I only wrote during the week and left the weekends off for the family, which cut down on my thirty days. I didn’t beat myself up if I didn’t feel like writing. I decided to just write and let the muse flow.
I set a goal of writing seven pages of day. I had 15 days to work, because I knew nothing was going to get done the week of Thanksgiving. Some days were a breeze, some days I didn’t want to write at all. I think I had a whole week I didn’t do anything. However I didn’t stress about it. I was writing again and that was most important.
I didn’t reach my goal of 105 pages. I ended up writing 60 pages – 10, 704 words.
Which means to me I’m about two months away from finishing this book. WOO HOO!
I learned a lot with this experience. I can reach my daily writing goals when I have to.
I wanted to know how long it would take me to write a book and this page goal helped me to see how to break the book down into a monthly figure. So I could write a book in about 8 mths if I worked hard at it. That’s not too bad. One book a year. My ultimate goal is to write two books a year. I think that’s possible if I wrote two genres, which I’ve been doing for years. (I’m working on a middle grade book too. I’ll tell you about that one later.)
I learned more about my characters and what their motivations are.
The most important lesson, that it’s best to write and edit later. In my writing stage, I just let the words flow, I didn’t try to figure out what I did or why. When I’m in editing mode sometimes I lose my muse because I’m trying to figure things out. You can’t worry about figuring things out when you’re in the writing mode.
Now I’m in editing stage and I’m hoping to take those 60 pages and change them into 120 pages.
How did you do with your book?
Friday, November 20, 2009
Faith and Fangs Blog Tour
Touched by a Vampire
by Beth Felker Jones
EXAMINING TWILIGHT THROUGH A BIBLICAL LENS
People around the world are asking the same question, enraptured with Edward and Bella’s forbidden romance in the Twilight Saga, a four-book serial phenomenon written by Stephenie Meyer. The bestsellers tell the story of a regular girl’s relationship with a vampire who has chosen to follow his “good” side. But the Saga isn’t just another fantasy–it’s teaching girls about love, sex, and purpose. With 48 million copies in print and a succession of upcoming blockbuster films, now is the time to ask the important question: Can vampires teach us about God’s plan for love?
Touched by a Vampire is the first book to investigate the themes of the Twilight Saga from a Biblical perspective. Some Christian readers have praised moral principles illustrated in the story, such as premarital sexual abstinence, which align with Meyer’s Mormon beliefs. But ultimately, Beth Felker Jones examines whether the story’s redemptive qualities outshine its darkness.
Cautionary, thoughtful, and challenging, Touched by a Vampire is written for Twilight fans, parents, teachers, and pop culture enthusiasts. It includes an overview of the series for those unfamiliar with the storyline and a discussion guide for small groups.
Thirsty
by Tracey Bateman
There's no place like home, they say.
"Hello, I'm Nina Parker…and I'm an alcoholic."
For Nina, it's not the weighty admission but the first steps toward recovery that prove most difficult. She must face her ex-husband, Hunt, with little hope of making amends, and try to rebuild a relationship with her angry teenage daughter, Meagan. Hardest of all, she is forced to return to Abbey Hills, Missouri, the hometown she abruptly abandoned nearly two decades earlier–and her unexpected arrival in the sleepy Ozark town catches the attention of someone–or something–igniting a two-hundred-fifty-year-old desire that rages like a wildfire.
Unaware of the darkness stalking her, Nina is confronted with a series of events that threaten to unhinge her sobriety. Her daughter wants to spend time with the parents Nina left behind. A terrifying event that has haunted Nina for almost twenty years begins to surface. And an alluring neighbor initiates an unusual friendship with Nina, but is Markus truly a kindred spirit or a man guarding dangerous secrets?
As everything she loves hangs in the balance, will Nina's feeble grasp on her demons be broken, leaving her powerless against the thirst? The battle between redemption and obsession unfold to its startling, unforgettable end.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Listening To God
Last night I had to wake my daughter up because she didn’t do the chores I asked her to do. She was really upset to be awakened from her good sleep. I was really upset because we’ve been bucking heads because she thinks she doesn’t need to do chores. NOT
In bed I’m praying about my children getting on my last nerve and the spirit begins to chastise me. Are you doing your chores? Are you being a good role model to your children?
I’ve been going through a few storms and I’ve been on a sabbatical from church. I keep telling myself that I’m tired, but God knows. Lazy.
It is so easy to stay in bed, than to pick up your cross and walk with Jesus.
He asked - Who am I to complain about my children when I’m not being a good child either?
I hear you father I called out. I’m sorry.
As my daughter crawled back in her bed after completing her chores, I prayed for a better frame of mind; for help to get past the laziness and for help getting past my storms.
Hopefully my children and I will get better at doing our chores and pleasing our parents.
In bed I’m praying about my children getting on my last nerve and the spirit begins to chastise me. Are you doing your chores? Are you being a good role model to your children?
I’ve been going through a few storms and I’ve been on a sabbatical from church. I keep telling myself that I’m tired, but God knows. Lazy.
It is so easy to stay in bed, than to pick up your cross and walk with Jesus.
He asked - Who am I to complain about my children when I’m not being a good child either?
I hear you father I called out. I’m sorry.
As my daughter crawled back in her bed after completing her chores, I prayed for a better frame of mind; for help to get past the laziness and for help getting past my storms.
Hopefully my children and I will get better at doing our chores and pleasing our parents.
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
WIP - Day 1
I wrote my seven pages in two hours last night. The words flowed into my hands. I didn’t do any editing. I’m just writing for now. It was refreshing to find the story again. The best part was my 2 year old let me write. He kept asking am I done yet, but he understood mommy was busy. I’m getting him trained.
I’m looking forward to tonight to see where the story goes. I think for me that’s the exciting part about writing a book, finding out where it will take you. Sometimes you have an outline, but every now and then those characters have a mind of their own and that’s when the fun begins.
I will tell you I’m reading Ideal Wife by Jacquelin Thomas and it is off the chain. I so want to talk with someone who has read this book. If you’ve read this book send me an email or comment here. I want to know what you thought about it.
I’m also reading Permission Slip by Sherri Shepherd. She is too crazy. I like her voice, she has me cracking up as I’m cooking dinner. Yes I read while my food is cooking. Ok I’m a multi tasker I can’t help it. It’s in my blood.
Get your write on.
I’m looking forward to tonight to see where the story goes. I think for me that’s the exciting part about writing a book, finding out where it will take you. Sometimes you have an outline, but every now and then those characters have a mind of their own and that’s when the fun begins.
I will tell you I’m reading Ideal Wife by Jacquelin Thomas and it is off the chain. I so want to talk with someone who has read this book. If you’ve read this book send me an email or comment here. I want to know what you thought about it.
I’m also reading Permission Slip by Sherri Shepherd. She is too crazy. I like her voice, she has me cracking up as I’m cooking dinner. Yes I read while my food is cooking. Ok I’m a multi tasker I can’t help it. It’s in my blood.
Get your write on.
Monday, November 02, 2009
BOOK IN A MONTH
This month I decided to finish my WIP. I need words 33,944 to complete it (about 135 pages). I decided to tape my fav shows. Yes no t.v. during the week. I will be in writing mode Mon – Friday and off on the weekends. I decided that I wouldn’t write on the weekend, to use those days for the family who probably will disown me after this month is up.
Why am I doing this? I haven’t been in writing mood. Stresses from family issues have taking the motivation out of me. However I want to finish this book before the year ends. It’s one of my goals for this year and I will see it to the end. I also want to prove to myself that I can be discipline when it comes to writing. This is my dream and I need to know that I can handle the job. I like writing on my own terms, but when you get published. You have to step away from writing when you feel like it and write.
I’m also going to do something different and write on the computer. I usually write in a notebook, and then type it later. I want to see how I handle just writing on the computer and I also want to see how much I can produce in a months’ time.
Are you participating in the A book in a month this month? If you are happy writing and don’t beat yourself up if you don’t meet your daily goals. Tomorrow is a new day, just write.
Daily Goal – 7 pages
Why am I doing this? I haven’t been in writing mood. Stresses from family issues have taking the motivation out of me. However I want to finish this book before the year ends. It’s one of my goals for this year and I will see it to the end. I also want to prove to myself that I can be discipline when it comes to writing. This is my dream and I need to know that I can handle the job. I like writing on my own terms, but when you get published. You have to step away from writing when you feel like it and write.
I’m also going to do something different and write on the computer. I usually write in a notebook, and then type it later. I want to see how I handle just writing on the computer and I also want to see how much I can produce in a months’ time.
Are you participating in the A book in a month this month? If you are happy writing and don’t beat yourself up if you don’t meet your daily goals. Tomorrow is a new day, just write.
Daily Goal – 7 pages
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