Heather Spiva

E-reading: Are you doing it yet?

2012-02-04T13:14:00.000-08:00

A few years ago, when Kindle came out, I was hurt.

It sounds absurd, but as a writer, we view books as the actual evidence to verify our profession. How in the world was a writer supposed to be an author if their books were virtual? Did it count? Did it invalidate all the authors out there? What about the wanna-be authors who think they too can be authors all because their work is out there as a "book"?

Now that we've all gotten a chance to deliberate over it, buy our Kindles or Nooks or Ipads or other e-readers, it seems that none of that matters. My thinking that e-publishing debased authors and their platforms was incorrect. Why? Because good writers, whether physically published or virtually published, still need the readers -- the public -- to consider their work good in order for it to fare well.

I also used to think that e-pubbing was a cop-out; that this wasn't "real" publishing because an editor or agent or publisher didn't pick it up. I'm wrong on that too. How many books have you read, that once finished -- if you even got that far--you wondered how it happened? How fate lined up their work -- their awful work-- and had it published?

And how many e-books have you read that are absolutely mind-blowing, inspirational -- stories that go beyond average-- and wonder how they weren't picked up by an agent or editor in the first place?

Truth is, e-publishing is perfect for everyone. It's great for those who want to write, and can't seem to catch that big break into the actual book-publishing world. This is a new outlet; a way for them to see their words in (virtual) print. Which to me, is better than nothing -- and also better than lining your walls with rejection letters.

E-publishing is good for those who think they can write, but insist on throwing it into the e-pub arena even though their work is absolute trash. If your work isn't good, it won't sell. Word-of-mouth sales are an enormous issue with e-books too. If the reviews are disastrous, the book won't sell. If the reviews are decent, chances are good one person will tell another, who will tell another, who will tell another and so on.

E-publishing is also great because it's worldwide from the comfort of your own home: for those doing the reading or the selling. To think someone from the opposite side of the world can read your book and like it, is amazing! And that it happens instantly, and inexpensively, is just another two cherries on the top of this e-publishing sundae! Who wouldn't want to pay a $1.99 for a chance that the book is good rather than $24.99 and then regret not having spent the $24.99 on a pair of shoes?

If you refuse to e-read, it's okay. There's a lot of people out there who still love to feel the pages in their fingers or inhale the smell of the glue and cardstock, or take in the vivid colors of the jacket flap. Me included. Books will never go away. And if you're one of the lucky that has been published "for real", then kuddos (or extra chocolate on your sundae) to you.

But, I also don't think e-publishing or e-reading with go away for a very long time either. As long as we have writers, we will have readers. And if the reading can be instantaneous, in an instantaneous-driven world, we will have e-publishing. I think it's here to stay. I think it can be a great, great thing. And I think, it might just be what so many writers have wanted without needing to spend thousands on self-publishing (and boxes of unsold books in the years to follow.)

It may not be for everyone, but it might just be for me.

What about you?

A New Year for New Things

2012-01-13T14:42:00.000-08:00

I was REALLY trying to come up with something incredibly witty and cool to write about. After all, I've not blogged in almost two months.

I thought about writing an antecdote about my kids over Christmas vacation -- yes, Christmas vaction, not winter break -- and how crazy and silly they are, and that during break they played video games, danced naked, or threw up because of a stomach virus. But nothing seemed right. And it also reminded me of how sick I became too.

I thought about writing about writer's block, or perhaps e-publishing and how that has taken off and how I might even venture to do that one day soon, but I felt too drained to dive into that giant pool of new subject matter. Besides, I know I have other blogs posts to focus on things like that.

I have nothing witty to write about mostly because I think everyone wants to be just that and it's driving me a little bit bonkers. Not eveyone has to have a sense of humor all the time. Some posts need to just be straight-forward- don't they? Not as fun, yes. But darn it, do we have to perform? Do we all have to be funny all the time?

Wait a minute, you say, this blog was your idea! I know. It was. But because I have readers, I feel like I need to write or say something worthwhile; something that will keep their attention and maybe even make them smile. This is exactly the dilemna comedians have in the real world. People expect "funny" from them all the time - even when they don't want to be funny. But it IS self-wrought... hmmm.

Well, here's something that might grab your attention and maybe make you smile: it's almost time for Amazon's Breakthrough Novel Award competition. If you have never been a part of this, I'd encourage you to do it at least once. It's pretty awesome because it not only gets you to whip your MS into shape, but it motivates you to get it out there for other lookers to take a peek at: stuff that you wouldn't even let your significant other look at. Although, I would recommend having a reader read your stuff, perhaps even your significant other despite the biases and prejudices they may bring.

But hey, if your manuscript is more than good, an agent might just pick it up. Oh, and you might win the "award" that this contest is all about too.

So, there you go. Get writing, keep at it, and don't be opposed to doing something you said you'd never do. Sometimes, doing that "never" thing is exactly what you need to be successful. And I may just have a post about that next time, assuming it doesn't take another 2 months to write that one too.

Jumping Jenny Joe - Author's Challenge

2011-11-28T15:48:00.001-08:00

Read Jumping Jenny Joe

I really dislike it when voting is required for a manuscript to take first, second, third or to even place at all in writing contests. I'd prefer the expert to choose. I mean, what makes the average reader an expert, after all?

On the other hand, that is exactly why the average reader should make the final say as to whom should be first, second or third. The public buys the book, therefore the public should be able to vote on their favorites. They know a good story when they read it!

Now, here's when I tell you to vote for my little story. See, I wrote this cute little rhyme-y children's story. I read to it my youngest, and he kept wanting me to read and reread it, so I thought "okay, why not enter it into a constest?" If I win, the book is published. If not, that's okay. All's fair in writing and publishing... or something like that.

Anway, vote for my story. There's a 400 to 1 chance I could be printed. Not great, but not awful. Go here and read it. It's silly, it's short, it's for kids. So take a look if you feel inclined, perhaps even say you like it, and I'll be more than satisfied. In fact, don't like it and I'm still satisfied. At least someone is reading the story.

Thanks for taking a look, and hey, let me know what you think.

Missing in Action

2011-11-22T07:48:00.001-08:00

So, I've sort of been not blogging as of late. Sorry. Life kind of takes precedence sometimes, even though I would like to blog. But I find there's a blending of laziness, busyness and life events, which prevent me from being at this site. The whole doing what we don't want to do and don't do what we ought to, that the apostle Paul spoke of in the Bible. It's a mean and vicious cycle.

Pumpkin Pie Amazingness

Having said that, here's a lovely pie that I would want to make, but probably won't. Totally off subject, and a procrastinating sort of project. Sort of ... would be good for that big meal we're all partaking of this thursday. Interested in making this too? Click on the link for recipes at Family.go.com which is part of the Disney co. Great ideas abound at that website!

Have to say, if you're in the middle of serious life events, like lack of job, lack of initiative, lack of motivation perhaps, etc, there's a call for submissions for a new book coming out which will be titled "Life in Pieces." This is your chance to write about being unemployed, or some other economic hardship (not getting paid a penny for your thoughts) surrounding your life. Essays must be under 7500 words and submitted by February 3rd. Go here for more information and details.

Anyway, I have so much to be thankful for .... even if I can't even thank myself for blogging exactly one month ago. Or by not making a cool pumpkin pie. But hey, happy Thanksgiving to you all, for life, liberty and the pursuit of writing -- and pie eating.

Bad Austen Book

2011-10-22T12:55:00.000-07:00

So, this is cool... remember that Jane Austen contest I told you about many months ago? The one where you had to enter your own story in the style of Jane Austen? Well, they just released the book and my story was in it, along with 55 others. It was a fun write, one that was harder that I thought, but also entertaining and enlightening.

Who knew how hard it would be to use long words, an ancient vocabulary and extremely wordy and unintelligable sentences? (Okay some intelligent sentences; Jane was a genius. Me? Not a genius)

The thing is, not a whole lot of people actually entered this contest, so had YOU entered this one, you would have probably gotten in too! Mine wasn't exceptional. But, they published it anyway. Go here, to Amazon, to see the cover and a few excerpts.

Let this be a lesson: always enter writing contest and call for submissions and send your work to agents... even if you think it's a long shot, it can never hurt to try. Because seriously, coming from someone who just had a manuscript rejected -- and wondering if writing was even her calling -- if they can publish me, they will publish you.

Cheerio!

It's Almost NaNoWriMo Time!

2011-10-08T16:34:00.000-07:00

Hey you writers! It's almost time for NaNoWriMo.

What is this, you ask? Just the most inspirational month of your year.

It's National Novel Writing Month.

Here's how it works. Let's say you have a book in your head that

you want to write, but the motivation or focus isn't there.

NaNoWriMo takes care of these two things at once. Here are 6 reasons how and why

you need to sign up to do NaNoWriMo.

1. This is proof that thousands of people out there are just like you. You can write, you can do it. And you are not alone!

2. You have one month: 30 days, to get 50,000 words down. They don't have to be perfect. Just written.

3.Once you see how a little bit every day (or roughly 1666 words a day) equates to a whole book, well

that'll motivate anyone to write!

4. You can write about anything you want.

5. You can write an outline even, and go by that everyday.

6. You have a network of people you can talk to in your part of town or the world, who are doing this just like you!

At the end of the month, you a have a written book -- yes, a book written by YOU -- and all you had to do was find your way during the day or night to park yourself in your chair and type away. For me, that's one hour if very motivated, two hours if not so motivated and 3 or 4 if lagging in vision. Regardless, it's a goal. And I love goals.

What's also cool is that NaNoWriMo goes against the "quality vs. quantity." This time, it's all

about quantity... the quality comes later when the writing is done.

So get ready. In three weeks, November 1st, the writing begins. Go sign up! You'll be glad you did, especially 50, 000 words later.

Happy writing!

Back to School

2011-09-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

From this months' October issue of Ladies Home Journal

I have this absurd fascination with Autumn. I think it's because when one lives in a climate with a hot summer, the yearning for cool weather comes to the forefront of our minds -- especially when, a few days before the first day of fall, it's 98 degrees!

We have seasons here in Sacramento too. Which makes this yearning so much harder.

I know it's coming; I know the sweaters and boots and cool walks, the pumpkins and hot coffee are headed this way. It also reminds me of school. And I don't think that ever goes away. Though I've been out of college for years, I smell the autumnal air and it reminds me of going to class, happy for a new year, and ready to accomplish something important.

Or even better, school shopping with my kids makes me want to buy pencils and paper for myself.

So, I do.

And this is where the writing comes in because Autumn is a wonderful time for it. No more swimming pools, no ice cream or popsicles to divert one's attention (okay, the ice cream will always be a diversion --always). But, it's the "back to school" agenda that gets me, and needs to get me. And by golly, I'm going to get "Back to School' with my writing, and so can you.

Here's a couple of contests to enter to get your creative juices going:

1. Are you a children's book writer? Get a picture book published! Great contest, for newbies and pros alike. If you win, you'll have your story published and illustrated online by a real publisher. And who doesn't want that for their resume? It's a great foot in the door.

Check out MeeGenius for more details. Contest ends November 1st.

2. Like to write non-fiction? Ladies Home Journal has a personal essay contest going on right now. All you have to write about is an aspect of personal growth in your life -- very broad, yet very good because you can write about anything -- and have a chance at having it published in their magazine and win $3,000 too!

Check out Ladies Home Journal for more details. Contest ends December 13th.

Okay, grab a hot cider, crank up the proverbial fire place and get going on writing for your "Back to school" season. School is in!

The Door Swung Open

2011-09-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

So, I am taking on a writing challenge today. Awesome blogger, and author Rachael Harrie, has a writing contest for those who are interested in participating (tomorrow is the last day). This is a flash fiction contest, so the content has to be short. In this case, under 200 words.

There is one requirement: to begin the story with the words "The door swung open."

That's pretty cool. And if you want to make it even harder on yourself, end it with "The door swung shut." If you like it even more difficult, keep it EXACTLY 200 words. This is what I decided to do in order to learn the most.

Though flash fiction is difficult --trying to develop, and execute an actual story within 200 words is excrutiating -- it can be done and is a fantastic writing excercise. Below is my story. Go there today and enter your story!

The door swung open. It glided like a dove hovering over the ground, and reminded me of Grandpa’s pond on the ranch in winter, when the ducks were the only ones out there.

The door was lighter than I anticipated. I mean, how did I explain it? Sure, it looked like a pearl, but not like any pearl I’d seen before. The user’s guide never told me to expect an unseen color and that it would be a door-like gate, glowing and shimmering at the same time.

Man's words always seem to be the most inadequate when trying to explain extraordinary places.

I walked through of course, not knowing who opened it. No one was around, but I heard water flowing, and heard grasses swaying, and I swore they were singing…

I pondered the gate again touching it as I walked by. It seemed to quiver with my touch, the way Grandpa’s pond used to look when I threw in a stone.

Then, there he was … Grandpa. Though gone years ago, he was here.

I laughed and saw someone else next to him, and cried out in joy, His gaze pulling me towards Him.

And, the door swung shut.

-Heather Spiva

Get your writing on! (even on the cover of a card)

2011-08-31T13:42:00.000-07:00

I've been down-for-the-count with a cold I caught from

my youngest son. The irony of this all is that I assumed I would

get even more writing done now that he's in school, having just begun all day

kindergarden. While I do have uninteruppted time, being sick is not

condusive to writing, especially when all I want to do is lie down.

So, yes, it's an excuse. But hey, it's legitimate.

Now, something for you: Have you heard about Hallmark's card contest?

They have one or two contests every month devoted to great pictures

-- and most importantly, well placed and perfect writing to go with it --

by people like us, and NOT their in-house writers.

Here is an example, as I won one of their contests last year.

If you're like me, you have a ton of pictures on the computer that are

going to waste. And if you're a writer,

then this is the perfect contest for you.

Go to Hallmark today and find out the latest contest. Enter it

and you never know ... the whole world may see your writing!

WriteonCon 2011

2011-08-13T14:24:00.000-07:00

Calling all children and young-adult writers!

If you haven't heard about the most educational, fun,

crazy and inspirational three days of our writing year, then you MUST

go to Writeoncon.com and sign up for

hours of packed, fun-filled days of writing skills, tips, trade secrets, author-

advice and agent-wisdom. This is some of best stuff you'll ever find in one place (Well, other

than a writer's conference in person).

But, that's what writeoncon is. A conference, but online - and one that you writers

can't miss. It starts the 16th and goes through the 18th.

Writeoncon

Be there (in your sweats, with coffee and chocolate in copious amounts)!

Movies and Inspiration

2011-08-09T14:02:00.000-07:00

Though I've briefly written about this before, in a previous blog post When Not to Write, I wanted to go into further detail about the notion of creativity in writing and movie-viewing. Though I don't recommend writing after watching a movie (as the writing can be horrific, like a knock-off Gucci bag to the real thing) there is something to be said for finding a way to rejuvenate the ideas and inspiration we once had for a story, or novel when watching something both amazing, and inspirational.

For example, last week, I went to see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows Part 2. While JK Rowling's writing is pretty much INCREDIBLE (that lady is a master of storytelling), what really lights my writing fire is knowing that her ideas, her brain activity and education, actually went somewhere ... as in phenomenal, once-in-a-lifetime, everyone-loves-you, let's-make-a-movie-out-of-all-your-books type of success. And sitting in the ice-cold theater, with the AC set at 65 degrees, doesn't shut me down either. No, I push myself into the story (which isn't hard to do) so I don't have to think about how cold I am!

Here's what I'm trying to say: her books are successful. She's like Stephanie Meyers with the Twilight series, and myriad other writers whose books transcend the usual New York Times top-ten because they also make it to the big screen.

I am reminded of their success when I watch their stories made into movies. And it makes me want to keep on trying for my success. Not for a movie, mind you. I'm not asking for that kind of accomplishment. I know, I'm nuts. But really, that's a heck of a lot of responsibilty to have a huge following of fans along with the truckload of cash to deal with. Okay, so some don't think that's such a bad thing. But, I think it is. Very few people can handle success in their bank account and success at home at the same time. I prefer a great home-life, with peace, than a great bank account.

So, let's get off this tangent ... if JK Rowling can write a story when her toddler takes a nap, then by golly, we can write something we want to tell, with the little bit of time we have too.

My kids are both in school for the first time, starting this week... I officially have NO excuses not to produce something good in my literary world.

We may not have best sellers, or books turned-into-movies type of writing, but that doesn't matter. If you are inspired by other authors' successes (as I am) then let that motivate you. Go see a great movie, a great story, and keep on writing, even just a page of your book a day, and that can be all the accomplishment you need to feel like a world-success too...

Finally...

2011-08-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

So, I was on vacation for forever! Well, maybe 11 days. But, if sure felt like forever, and it also felt like about 10 minutes, all at the same time.

Here is some of what I was up to:

And, I actually not only answered a few emails, but wrote down some book

ideas as well. I'd say it was a vacation well spent. I had a relaxing time,

and didn't feel guilty about not writing either.

Do I want to get back into the writing "saddle"? Not really,

but I am going to do it anyway.

I've got nothing to lose... even if all

I want to do now is be on the beach.

Happy writing!

Lack of Pain, Lack of Gain

2011-07-07T13:58:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we all know the well-worn cliche of "no pain, no gain." This goes for weight loss (yes, less food equals less weight) and exercise (must do the treadmill, if I want to see the muscles through the fat) and even beauty (yes, a shower is necessary, even though no one but you is around to smell you.)

Perhaps it's a summer problem, or just a phase I'm going through, but this overwhelming desire to do absolutely nothing -- instead of something -- ripples through my veins (and flabby calf muscles) in the middle of our summer. Just writing a blog post is like pulling a boulder into the chair with me. How do I work with this? It's in the way. It (boulder and writing) is too heavy.

Really, this is just me being lazy. So what I've been writing for years without much gain. I love writing anyway! I should be glad I have hands and fingers and get to be creative. That's amazing. Just because I feel like not writing, doesn't mean I should -- or shouldn't. Vacations are in order, but I've talked about that before too. And we can't be on vacation forever.

Writing is tough because writers/editors work for long periods without reward, merit, affirmation or even money. But, if it's what one is called to do, then none of that should matter. Write when every fiber in you says "no." Write, when the pool beckons you (and you just got out of it). Write when the ideas have evaporated, or when you feel your stories will see only the inside of your mind. Write because this is something you love. And when you begin to write (again) you'll see that --like riding a bike, or eating a donut -- it will all come back to you.

No pain, no gain.

I can't stand going through life without trying. If I tried writing for 50 years, and still wasn't published, and if I gave it my all, then hey, that is good enough. Writing isn't a waste. Writing teaches us patience, critical thinking, psychology, how to understand people, finances (the lack of funds), love (and hate) and above all, it teaches us to persist when everything around us tells us to stop.

Don't let the pain stop you this summer. After a quick dip in the pool, or sprinklers, get back at it. Only you can tell that story, so get going!

Driving Home a Point with Devotions

2011-06-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

Buy it at Amazon

There is something so perfect about a devotion. Maybe it is because a verse is singled out, and focused on, which in turn gives insight into something so simple, but profound. Or maybe it's because the writing is short, but always incredibly sweet. Maybe it is because there is usually a personal application through the whole thing that makes it easy to relate to.

Whichever the reason, or all three, I'm honored to be in this devotional book that just came out a few weeks ago, called Faith and Family: A Devotional Pathway for Families. Here is a picture I took of it yesterday when I got it in the mail.

Christian Devotions compiled this work. They are a fanstatic website that delivers a daily devotion, and keeps archives of them for one to peruse any time they want. They also have a radio program, many books, and several of the founders speak regularly at conferences, meetings and gatherings year-round. They are devoted to devotions!

Their slogan is: A devotion may be someone's only Bible. Isn't that so true and amazing at the same time? This little book is perfect for family devotion time, for new or older familes, small or large ones. Anyone can benefit from it, every day, with both the stories and verses -- even people without families of their own.
Because, really, we are all a part of the family of God.

Thank you Christian Devotions for your constant work towards making, editing, creating and propelling great devotions and ultimately, for driving us to the Source.

-H

The Gift of Goals

2011-06-08T14:55:00.000-07:00

So, here I am, turning 35 today. Haven't accomplished what I thought I would accomplish, and have already accomplished what I never thought I wanted. Life is sort of like that.

Now that the hill approacheth --that yucky-ish one with the big 40 on the top of it-- I've begun thinking about what I want for the next milestone year-- what it is that I want to have done, or helped, or begun. Here's a small list.

1. Trip to Holy Lands: Okay, so I know this is sort of a really vulnerable area right now, but it doesn't change the fact that I want to go. I've wanted to visit for the past five years, and figure I have another five to get there. It is rather difficult trying to scrape the cash to get there with children's private school tuition, a college education savings fund, and pay cuts, but I'm not giving up. Mark Twain wrote fondly of Israel. And if the witty and cyncial author loved it, no doubt I will too. Someday, I will get to Jerusalem.

2. Book: So, I'm going to be really vague here, but I want to have a book published. That is to say, one of my own. Yes, I sort have been published already. And that's super cool. But, I want a book that I'm not only proud of (with my name in small letters), but one that says something great. Again, I'm being vague. And I'm sorry. Let's just say, that as the years have passed with the desire to be published, all I can really think about now is making sure that what is published is worthy, helpful ... and semi-coherent. I really don't care if it doesn't makes a dime, as long as someone gets something valuable from it. Having said that, I wonder if any publisher would ever take me on with that kind of goal? Sort of "not their type of client," I'm thinking.

3. To be Happy: Wow, this is a broad goal, isn't it? But it's true. We all want to be happy in our work, in our family and in our living. This is extremely possible, and all the time too - despite the bad economy, despite the miserable mess I feel our America is turning into, and despite the fact that the very people we should protect are being targeted by others all over the world. To be happy means that I give up what I think I want for what I actually need (or what God wants to give to me.) And right now, I have everything in the world that I need: husband and kids. Don't need that published book or the trip to the Holy Lands to be happy. (But, it sure would be nice.)

Getting older does make one think more ... at least it should. And listing out goals, as I've mentioned in a previous post, means we want to do something meaningful with our lives- even if it's, say, losing five pounds. I only hope that my thinking --and goals--will eventually help others and myself, every day. And this is a perfect gift for me, today.

New Road for Writers

2011-05-26T07:43:00.000-07:00

Authonomy

I found this crazy cool website, called Authonomy. It's not a website I've ever seen before. Not only does this site allow you the opportunity to submit your work -- work that other writers, bloggers and professional editors will read and possibly critique -- but you gain feedback from all of these groups, thereby increasing your chances of being published.

Oh, and did I mention that this site is a part of the HarperCollins company? Wow! This site reminds me of Amazon's Breakout Novel Award competition, only much more hands-on and ... friendly. It reminds me of submitting manuscripts to an agent, (which it is!) only this site is much more hands-on and ... friendly. You see where I'm going with this? And who can't use this?

Though I haven't actually created an account or submitted a chapter or two, it might be just want we need to get that book published. Check it out! http://www.authonomy.com/

Boundaries

2011-05-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

So, I was talking to a writer friend of mine this week, and she mentioned that she was having a problem getting everything done that she needed to do. This included work, home, marriage and kids; everything she wanted to do, and everything everyone else wanted her to do.

I sympathized with her because I, like most people, find myself in this situation frequently.

But for once, I felt like I could actually give her some sound advice. Just that week, I had turned down two rather important offers-- one dealing with my kids' school, and another with more editing-- and I actually felt fine about it.

There are times to say yes, and moments when we have to do more in 24 hours than should be legally allowed. But because writing is important to me, I've learned to say no in order to focus on just that. I understand we are here to love, give and serve. I get that. But, we’re also to do what’s in front of us to the best of our abilities. If we’re overburdened, how then does this really work?

This is all so easy to write and not actually do though. Believe me, I've been there... and being a people pleaser, for me saying no can be hard. However, it does get easier. When someone asks something of us, we have to ask ourselves, “To whom does it benefit?”

If it is to help people, well sure, I'm all for that. Yet, realistically, one person can only do so much! And if it in turn burns out the very person whom everyone is so intently relying on, that does absolutely no one no good.

My answer to my writer-friend was to learn to say no. Not because she has to, but because she needs to in order to feel like her head is above water! If writing is my passion, or being published a goal, then my thoughts and actions should focus on that.

Of course, life is full of things we have to do that have nothing to do with our immediate goal. But to get to that destination, there are times when we need to be selfish; where we need to say no for our own good.

Boundaries are there to serve us. But it's up to us to implement them. Your blog, article or book will thank you. And you’ll thank yourself too.

What would Jessica Fletcher Do?

2011-04-30T13:34:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, just saying this question outloud -- "What would Jessica Fletcher do?" --can be the absolute best way to work through a scene, or maybe in the extreme case, your entire novel.

I know, it totally sounds hokey ... at best. But, it's true!

If you've never watched an episode of Murder She Wrote, or really an episode of almost any crime/drama, then you need to. It can help to focus in on what it is you're trying to explain, reveal, hide or introduce in your story.

In reality, detectives -- or in her case, unofficial detectives -- rarely solve a murder case within the time frame that these shows take place in. However, that's because the show is limited to an hour or two. If it isn't short and quick, our attention wanes, we get up for a snack, or we will change the channel. In our writings, even if things don't move quite this quickly, we too need to move the plot along. Otherwise, no one will want to read our words either!

Watching J. B. Fletcher go through the murder, find the suspect, pick up clues, and of course, exonerate the wrongly accused, is sort of like watching a ball go from point A to point B. We know, as writers, that we want our "ball" to sail through the air from point A, and make it to point B.

However, it is easy to get hung up on back stories, unnecessary chit-chat, or excessive characterization. And our "ball" ends up dropping very short of the goal, hole, or basket. By cluing in (excuse the pun) on what we need to focus on (moving the plot to the climax, or revealing more necessary aspects to the sub-plots), watching a crime/drama unfold, play its part, and close within about 52 minutes, can really exemplify what we should be doing in our stories as well.

Think about how every episode opens up with a problem, how characters flaws and attributes appear in all the suspects, and how at least two subplots appear in the story as well. Watch how the protagonist learns from her mistakes, uses her knowledge and small-town cuteness to keep us entertained and charmed - along with the other characters whom we like just as much.

This, in turn, keeps us watching the show, wanting more (I think), and amazingly enough, thoroughly satisfies us with the quaint and perfect wrap up. We even anticipate the mandatory smile at the end.

Yes, Jessica Fletcher's role, and detective work, remind me how to keep those literary loose ends at bay, and keep the story moving. While the gooey-perfection of the show doesn't have to show up in our work, just thinking about the story aspect to it while watching it on television, can remind us to keep that "ball" moving for our benefit, and the reader.

It also makes me wonder how in the world we live without pantsuits, blue eye shadow, and feathered hair today. Okay ... not really.

Making the Most of Your Vacation

2011-04-14T14:44:00.000-07:00

I'll admit it ... the title of this post sounds suspiciously a lot like a travel article, or a top ten to see while you're in Aruba. But this post is more about being writer/reader productive -- without actually feeling like you are working -- while on vacation (or holiday, if you're on the other side of the pond).

Even when I'm on vacation, I still have this infinitesimal -- and sometimes grand -- urge to write. Something. Anything, especially when a postcard doesn't quite cut it as literary work. If this sounds like you, yet you don't want to write too much because heck, you are on vacation, keep a tiny notebook with you.

Jot down story ideas, characters flaws for your hero, write a poem as you watch the ocean, or end that novel with the final two hundred words you were trying so hard to write back at home.

While vacation is just that, vacation, it doesn't mean you have to abandon all creative writing. That's sort of like cutting out your oxygen supply line... not cool.

For my next getaway, I plan on bringing that little journal, have a great time doing nothing -- and everything that's fun -- and taking 10 or 15 minutes a day to write down those notes, or whip out words that are spilling from my head.

It's only right to be a writer, even when you don't need to be a writer. And your next story, poem, or perfectly blockbuster-movie-making-character will be there waiting for you when you come home to reality and put to good use when you are supposed to write -- and when you absolutely need something to write about, while you day-dream about your latest vacation instead.

Please feel free to tell me here what great work you created when you came back from your vacation. I would love to know! Oh, and send a pic or two of you in Aruba too. It's good to see where the inspiration came from.

The Awesomeness of AgentQuery

2011-04-06T14:34:00.000-07:00

I don't know if any of you are looking to be published, or need a great agent, but if you've tried to find the right agent, it can be grueling. All those requirements, or quirky specifics, and every agent is different. Some are big-timers, and some are small-town folks.

And if you're like me, and you don't feel like shelling out 30 bucks for an agent book -- the kind that list all the agents all of America, along with their info, in really small print -- then you have to check out AgentQuery. They are a database of agents, and yes, I'm warning you, it's overwhelming! But, really, AgentQuery is like finding a gold mine.

Oh, and did I mention that most of it's free? Jackpot!

I've been casually going to their website for a couple of years now. The agents' info --all thousands and thousands of them --stay relatively current, you can specify to the city what you are looking for in an agent, or an find agent by genre or category; those who specialize in what you want to have published.
They also list whether the agent prefers online queries to snail mail queries.

AgentQuery is a wealth of information and all-around amazing. If you haven't checked them out, then you need to. It could be the difference between wanting to be published or actually being published. And AgentQuery has made it all too easy not to find the agent of your dreams.

Go there today, peruse, shop around. Then, make sure your manuscript is top notch, your query is perfect, and get busy finding an agent!

Thought You Should Know ...

2011-03-29T13:57:00.000-07:00

Normally, I don't like to toot my own horn. It just doesn't sound right, doesn't ring right, doesn't jab with me or float my boat.

Cup of Comfort on Amazon

That being said, I'm going to do all of the above.

I have to tell you about a little book that published me. Okay, so the book isn't just about me. It's also about 40 other ladies who wrote fantastic words and essays and were chosen to be in the Cup of Comfort line of books, called A Cup of Comfort for Christian Women.

This book is seriously inspirational. I had more fun reading through it than writing my own story. It is a wonderfully encouraging book for other women, touches the soul, ministers to the heart, and puts a little more happiness into all of us.

The book is great as a gift, great for yourself, and great to have around when you need specific encouragement in a specific area.

Okay then, enough said. I am happy to be officially "published" in a "real" book (a national bestselling one at that) even if my name is hidden, small, shrouded and insignificant.

The editor, Colleen Sell, was a pleasure to work with, I learned a lot, and I'm most happy, knowing and hoping that my little story called "A Test of Tithe" will help others out there with their lives, as much as my experience helped -- and shaped me -- for the rest of mine.

Grand Grammar

2011-03-23T14:35:00.000-07:00

I'm always forgetting correct grammar rules. I mean, always. And did I mention my punctuation is pathetic? Well, it is.

There's a really cool website that I just found, and it's called "Grammar Girl." Well, actually it's really called "Quick and Dirty Tips," and I'm certain I am not italicizing and parathentizing correctly here. But, if I really want to know the right way to write, this lady has the answers. There are a bazillion tips for careers, work, lifetstyle, pets, etc. Hence the name "Quick and Dirty Tips."

But, it's the grammar section that really spoke to me. This section is filled with quick tips, written in a way that will make me always remember a particular rule the next time I need to use it. Like, How to Speak English like the Irish, or How to Write Grammatically Correct Photo Captions, or Commas with Adjectives. Useful, funny and insightful ... all at the same time. Way cool!

There's always a quick tip, or a point I needed to remember in my editing and writing. And this little website has it all. Check it out and bookmark it. Because a wealth of information -- especially grammar information -- should never be hidden.

Maximizing Your Time

2011-03-14T15:30:00.000-07:00

So, I'm sure many of you out there could use a little ego boost with your writing. What if there was a great way to do this, and maybe make a little money (really little money) from it at the same time? You can.

I just recently signed up to be a part of the Yahoo!Contributor Network. What this means is that I am able write about whatever I want, whenever I want and have it all (almost) published.

Some of you may think this is a waste of time, or maybe even beneath you. But, I don't look at it like that. In order to be a better writer, we have to actually write, as often as we can, when we can, and learn, learn, learn the craft -- from content to editing. And to be published during that journey? Wouldn't that be swell?

Well, here's an example. I reworked an article I wrote months ago about how just doing a few simple things to your house, can make it look new again. I called it Live in a New House (... without having to move). It was published almost immediately, and I got a couple dollars for it.

Then, they just accepted an article I wrote about thrift stores in the Sacramento area, because I not only live in Sacramento, but I love thrift stores. I combined what I know, with what I love, and an article was born! Here it is: Top Three Thrift Stores in Sacramento

When publications are few and (very) far between, or if perhaps you have yet to be published at all, having the opportunity to write what you want to write about -- and have it published -- is like finding a pot of gold.

Yes, you have to write. Yes, you have to edit. And yes, by all means, you have to make it look like professional journalism. But, through trial and error and through looking at other folks' writings, you can certainly find a few things to write about, in short quantities, and have fun with it all at the same time.

You'll not only learn how to write better, but think critically, perfect your editing, and have your name published on the World Wide Web. And if you're extra lucky, you might make a few dollars a month.

I highly recommend doing this, even if you only write one article. What's not to love about seeing a great article --with your name on it -- in print (er ... online. But, hey you can print it out, right?)

Happy writing!

Can I see your I.D?

2011-03-07T13:25:00.000-08:00

Are you in love with writing? Or just in love with the idea of being a writer?

This is a question everyone who writes, or wants to write, needs to keep at the forefront of their mind before they sit down and decide to make a career out of it.

I think someone famous said, "If you want to act like a writer, you can ... find a black turtleneck, act depressed all while hanging out at the local cafe." But, I don't know who said it, or the right wording or any of those important things.

However, I do remember the meaning behind it. The gist is this: Are you a real writer or a pretend one? Are you an author because you can't live without writing -- because it's in your DNA -- or are you just playing dress up?

A friend of mine gave me an article to read about a Belgian author, Amelie Nothumb who spoke of this same perplexity. What it comes down to is this: Writing, or being an author, isn't perplex. We may be perplex people -- and incredibly eccentric -- but the simple notion is that even if we aren't super-wonderful writers, that doesn't not make us a writer. It has everything to do with learning, trying, failing and continuing to write ... regardless.

Ms. Nothumb said this: "I found out that the question was not 'am I good enough to write?', because of course I am not. The question was 'am I able to live without writing?'. It is," she says, with another charming smile, "the only question."

And that truly is the only question. If you can't live without writing, etching words out of thin imagination --whether or not your work is published -- then this makes you a writer. If you can live without it (if the concept of looking like a writer is the most intriguing part) then perhaps you need to dig deeper into what it is you really want.

Not everyone can write. Everyone may say they "want to write a book" but that doesn't make one a writer until the book is written -- not published -- but written. And even then, the actual written word doesn't make you an "author" until it's published.

But, published or not, you're a writer when you can't go a day without thinking of dialogue, or character development, or if you edit your minds' conversation while drifting off to sleep. Or, in my case, when the casual day to pick up your kids from school becomes fodder for your next scene.

Writing is hard. But what's harder is acting like you're a writer when you aren't truly in love with your words. Love your writing, and the writing will come to you, on paper, on the computer screen, and always in your heart --no matter the final outcome of those words.

New Life in Non-fiction

2011-03-02T11:28:00.000-08:00

Whenever the writing bug isn't as pesky as it should be -- bugging me until I write something long --sometimes I go for little bits - like short story little bits.

Chicken Soup for the Soul

If writing novels or long stories is your thing, then writing a short story is going to be difficult. Having to think about dialogue, background, imagery and plot in 1500 words or less, is a challenge that many people have a hard time with -- me included.

However, this is where you have a chance to work at your skills. By writing in a few words, what would normally take a paragraph or two, we learn to activate our passive writing, condense our wordiness, and perfect our action scenes to precision.

Of course, what I'm talking about mainly has to do with fiction. And going from long fiction to short fiction is tough; it's almost like using a completely different side of our brain.

But, let me throw a wrench into this mix: what if you wrote a short piece of non-fiction?

If the thought terrifies you, it shouldn't! Now's the time to expand your repertoire of writing genres. Non-fiction -- something I'm working on more often -- is fun. It's real, it's now, and it's a world of fantasy I don't have to create ... because it's already here.

A great way to get your feet wet, and a fantastic way to gain writing prompts, is to visit the Chicken Soup for the Soul website and check out their submissions page, or their "Possible Books" page. This tells you what they are looking for, what they want to read, and what they want to print in their next books.

There are usually at least 5 different subjects one can write on. Not all of them will be something you know about, but probably one or two. Use this to your ability and write something good.

Try one of their topics today. Use it as a prompt to dole out 1200 words, edit it, and take a good look at it. If you like it, and it seems publish-worthy, why not send it in after a day or two? If you think you need to master your non-fiction craft a bit more, set it aside, and write something else.

The point is to write something that you're not used to writing, in a style you're not used to writing in. This will stretch you, teach you and make you learn more about writing well than ever before.

Slump -O- Rama

2011-02-21T15:35:00.000-08:00

So, it's not that I don't like writing.

That's like saying I don't like coffee.

Neither one is true, and neither will ever happen in my lifetime.

However, when things around my life get busy -- things that have nothing to do with writing-- it seems that this is not only the first thing to go, but the first thing I don't want to do.

Okay, so sometimes I do want to write, especially when things get out-of-whack. It's an outlet of sorts; to get away from what I find myself so wrapped up in, and I can escape to a world of unreality.

But more often than not, like right now, I just can't get the will power to sit down and write anything major. Why am I telling you this? Because, going through a dry spell, a writers' slump, is a normal thing.

We go through periods of writing non-stop for days, thousands and thousands of words, only to look back a week later and wonder how we did that and now, more importantly, how we are going to write one measly sentence.

Here's the thing: if this is you right now, don't despair.

Currently, I too am sort of in this predicament. I can write for short -- very short-- moments, but my life beyond writing, the one that I'm more involved in now, is sapping my energy and creativity.

Many times this past week, I've terrified myself over the thought: What if I never get back that urge to write? What if my zeal for creating new worlds and characters disappears for good?

It won't. I won't. And it won't happen to you either.

Phases. That's what life is about. The Bible even talks about this sort of thing : "A time to weep, a time to laugh ... a time to be silent and a time to speak" (Ecclesiastes 3:4,7, NIV). King Solomon wrote those words, and he was -- and is-- still considered to be the wisest person of all time.

If HE had a bad day -- a day where writing was the last thing he wanted or felt he could do -- then, by all means, we are no different. When I think of this, I don't feel so bad. After all, he wrote books in the bible!

I almost didn't write this post because my circumstances seemed more pressing -- and even more enticing --than sloshing out words onto the screen in front of me.

But, here they are. And I feel a little better. Many times, getting going is all we have to hurdle past and many times, that isn't a hurdle we feel like jumping over. The writing slump is what it is.

And it's okay.

Take the time to recuperate, restore your creativity, and wait for revelation for future writing. Because it will come. And when it does, be ready to write for a long, and fulfilling, time.

The Heart of Writing

2011-02-14T14:31:00.000-08:00

One of the last resolutions I talked about --in my first post of the year (click here)-- was to find a way to sit down and write a letter or note (amidst our busy life) by hand. A real letter. A real written letter.

As in, to write it: as in pen to paper sort of thing.

The idea is so vague and distorted now -- as if it were a dinosaur that we don’t want to reckon with anymore -- that we seem old-fashioned if we write something out, even a thank you note. But, if you really want to appreciate the art form of writing again, then that dino needs to remain alive and active and not extinct.

Because today is Valentine’s Day, let us briefly discuss this idea of actual writing. If you have a loved one, someone you cherish and are planning on celebrating Valentine’s day with (or even if you’re not and just wanting to wish them a happy day) then you better have actually written out that note.

Text messages and e-mails, in my humble opinion, don’t count.

Whip out a red or white piece of paper, get some stickers, or hey, go buy a card, and then sit down and write something sweet. It doesn’t need to be long, just nice, sincere and yes, heartfelt.

Now, wasn’t that nice? You just utilized a communication device of old: real hand-writing!

Happy Valentine’s day all my writing friends, and it’s not too late to get a card, write something fantastically simple, and make someone else think you are the most thoughtful and old-school cool (in the good, non-Dino kind of way) person in their life.

And I’m thinking that might just warm your heart a little bit too.

Jane Austen Writing Contest

2011-02-08T16:19:00.000-08:00

Do you LOVE Jane Austens' work?

Do you LOVE writing?

Do you have a secret dream to write just like her? (Or in my case, to jump at the opportunity to write like Austen because it is so ridiculously hard?)

Then check out this great contest called Write Like Jane, where your love for both Austen and writing make a perfect combination ... just like Ms. Bennet and Darcy.

Being Book Smart

2011-02-07T16:18:00.000-08:00

I had good intentions last year to read a book a week. That's 52 books. It really shouldn't have been an issue. Certainly I could find something worth reading, with the library so close by. And that there were tons of things I loved to read about, well, I had this 2010 New Year's resolution in the bag!

I fell very short of that goal.

And it is why I revamped my goals for this year (by a lot) to only one book a month.

Before you tell me that this can't be right, that it seems rather extreme, like I should be horrified at reading so little, don't say it. At this point in my life, with a dog, my busy kids, cooking, housekeeping, working, editing ... reading has almost become laborious. In 2010, I forced myself to be something I wanted to be, and was still failing. After failing my own others-driven goal, I knew I had a problem.

It is understood that writers are supposed to read. This is a school-driven, author-proven, writer-demanded way of living and thinking. And yet, after reading through my kids homework, reading (and editing) other people's work, reading how to un-train the dog from jumping over guests, and reading how to use my newest appliance, or how to remedy my kids' latest sickness, me sitting down to read for fun just isn't fun anymore. I'm too dang tired to read by then.

That's sad. But, I don't want it to be this way. I LOVE reading. It's what made me want to be a writer; it's what makes me strive to write the book I want to write so that others can feel as refreshingly escaped into that far-away place, and return happier for it. I want that back!

But I don't want to feel guilty for not reading either.

So, in order to relax but also to make myself do something for me, I'm setting a goal of a book a month -- a fun, silly, serious, crazy or out of this world book -- and have it by my bed for me to read not because I'm fulfilling a goal, or having to do one more thing, but because it is good for me to read - for me. And even if it is just two pages a day.

I may not even make it to a book a month. It might be a book every two months. But, it is a goal worth pursing because it is about reading for fun; reading to get lost; reading to be someone else and remember why I love it so much. Readers make better writers. This is true. But not to the point when they dread it.

Without sounding like a public health announcement or a "Mother's Against Illiteracy" commercial, (Yeah, like my own illiteracy!) get out there and read for fun -- that is to say, when you can, and at your own pace and leisure, of course.

Happy reading.

Editing and Your Teeth

2011-02-01T14:06:00.000-08:00

That title seems horribly incongruous. Yet, I mean every word of it. Let me start this post by asking you a question: Can editing really be your friend?

Let me ask a second question: Is editing really necessary?

Well, here's another question to think about while you ponder the veracity of the first two: Does the sun rise every morning?

The answer to the third question is the answer to the other two as well. Yes.

You must edit. You must go back and get rid of the excess. You must face the daunting task of wiping away scores of words from your computer -- the very words that fill your heart with joy. You MUST do this because those superfluous words do nothing for the story. As in, they are only there because it sounds good.

Sounding good is really not good, in the literary world. Because most of the time when you think you sound good, you sound like a prolific seal, barking up a storm over nothing. And that, my friends, is no good. Good writing comes from knowing how to edit your words. Plain and simple.

Editing is like brushing your teeth. Really. You have to take care of your teeth to keep them healthy and shiny. That means brushing, flossing, rinsing and more. If you don't, you've got one heck of an ugly mess that needs massive amounts of fixing just to see the start of original, pretty teeth.

Your manuscript is your teeth. No one wants to look at ugly teeth or be near bad breath. It's the same with your writing. Your first draft -- and sometimes second and third with insufficient editing -- are your teeth with gingivitis. No good.

Instead, you have to clean them, polish them and make them shine. And when you do, your writing will be like that magnificent, white smile that gleams from the fake television commercials like fresh snow.

Yes, you have to edit if you want to be a writer. Yes, the sun rises. And yes, you should brush your teeth. Talk about incongruous, and yet, I think you understand my point, right?

Get out there and brush, or rather, edit your stuff. Make editing your best friend.

You'll thank that "best friend editor within" when you get that book deal, or writing gig, and someone needs a headshot or interview and you'll have an awesome batch of shiny, sparkling material to go with your batch of shiny, sparkling teeth.

My Cup Runneth Over

2011-01-27T07:40:00.000-08:00

Somehow, in one way or another, I end up writing (even if in brief) about coffee in my blogs.

This is a habit (not just the writing, but drinking) for a lot of writers, because it really may be the only thing keeping us in our chair -- trying to do what we were called to do -- but suffering horribly at times because of that enormous wall called “writer’s block.”

But this post isn’t about walls, and blocks and such. It’s again, about the coffee. Did you know that Swedes (as in the folks of Sweden) are the highest coffee drinkers per capita in the world?

My maiden name is Swedish, even though I’m a mix of all things European. And a whopping ¼ of me is Finnish. Though Finland isn’t Sweden, it IS next door to it. And I think that counts as a good explanation as to why I love the black gold so much.

This picture is of my most favorite coffee mug in the world. My blog friends Erica and Christy are having a blogfest about coffee cups today. Each blogger is supposed to post their favorite cup and why it is their favorite. That's pretty darn unique and clever of them -- not at all like my cup.

My mug is simple, a lot like me. There are no frills or fluff. Not that I’d mind a frill or two. But, you know what I really love about this cup? The size. It’s not 8 ounce or 10 ounce or 20 million ounces. It’s only 6. It holds just the right amount of coffee and I can drink it in the right amount of time before it gets cold. A little half and half, and I’m really doing great.

The thickness of the cup is key too. Not too thin, not too thick, just right. I think the coffee is actually better from this cup than any other in my kitchen. No really. It truly tastes better.

This cup is from the 1950’s as well, so we’re talking vintage here. Called Fire King, and made by the Anchor Hocking glassware company, this is not just a mug -- but a treasure. And I’m taking care of it. I’d like to believe this cup is taking care of me too.

The third resolution from my New Year's post is for all of us to have our writing “be just what the editor was looking for.” With this cup in one hand, and my other on the keyboard, I’m bound to keep writing -- and rewriting-- to where this (an editor fawning over my words) is an actuality. I may have to put the cup down for a bit to work both my hands. But hey, that’s good too.

Blood, sweat and coffee (or maybe for you, it's tea or something else.) This is what writing is all about! And when I am in the midst of my work, I really do feel like my cup runneth over. Running over with coffee, ideas and blessings.

Music and Me

2011-01-24T11:50:00.000-08:00

So, this post is about music. Why? Because author extraordinaire Alex J. Cavanaugh is doing a music blogfest. For those who chose to sign up and write about this subject, like me, we get the opportunity to muse about the top ten songs that have inspired us the most over our life.

This is a rather subjective and varied blog idea, because sometimes the strangest music can inspire us, or move us, or allow us to remember a time or place or moment or person ... for the rest of our lives!

And that is also why it is such a grand idea to make a list of the most inspirational songs: to remember, to pontificate, and think about such like: Wow, that song was awful, but I sure loved it!

Warning: This list is going to be majorly filled with eighties music. Why? Again, for the reasons listed above. I was age "ten and up" in the mid-eighties. Talk about an inspirational and impressionable time of anyone's life!

Because of that, I feel the eighties were good to me. And I don't mean in the leg-warmer, semi-permed-hair or poufy-prom-dress-sleeves kind of way. I was all of those things, by the way. But the music, like literature, transcends decades or time (though, those keyboards are nowhere to be found) -- even today.

Here's that list:

1. Take on Me: A-Ha -- This reminds me of skating rink parties and that cute boy who didn't give a darn about me. Still love this song today (but, not the boy).

2. Sign Your Name: Terence Trent D'Arby -- Woah. Haven't heard that name in a while. Why this song? Because it was cool ... and it was tied to another big crush of mine. Moving on.

3. Thriller: Michael Jackson --You'd have to have lived under a rock if you can't agree. Yes, it's super-eighties. So what. I loved it. Still do.

4. Lead me On: Amy Grant -- She had a big thing going in the eighties. Still has a following today, and I love her stuff, but this song ROCKED!

5. Who's that Girl: Madonna -- I know, I know. I don't really like her either. But, this song was so incredible when it came out. It still gives me those eighties chills when I hear it today.

6. You give Love a Bad Name: Bon Jovi -- Yes, I still love this song, and yes Bon Jovi is still cute.

7. Man in the Mirror: Michael Jackson -- Not only an amazing, heart-felt song, but a life changing one as well. Who didn't hear this song and think about what they could change about themselves?

8. Tonight: Genesis -- Wow, such a techno cool song.

9. The Final Countdown: Europe -- I had completely forgotten about how great this song was, until I heard it on a commercial. This has to be a part of my musical youth.

10. Billie Jean : Michael Jackson -- I would be remiss not to include it. With that amazing bass line, it haunts me everywhere I go. Never done before, never done since. A great song.

There you have it. Me in an eighties bottle. And I wouldn't change it a bit.

Now, where did I put my jelly shoes?

Carpel Tunnel Be Gone

2011-01-17T08:25:00.000-08:00

Okay, so as my second resolution stated from the January 1st post, I don't wish anyone to acquire carpel tunnel from writing. That's not only painful, but really sad.

However, if you did happen to get sore wrists, say without the Carpel Tunnel, then that may be a good thing for this year.

Why? Because it means you are spending a whole lot of time doing what you told yourself you should do: write!

The literal act of writing is probably one of the hardest things anyone will ever do--even for "authors" too (crazy people who want to make a living through writing.)

But, take your plumber, or your firefighter, or your teacher and make them sit down to write a book, and really, they're not going to want to do it either. Writing, creating a world, visualizing dialogue and characters, scenery and hidden plots, well that's practically like coming up with an organized way to take over the world. It's that complicated.

Yet, it isn't impossible (the writing, that is). It's all about working those wrists, even if it potentially begins Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. See, writing is a discipline that even writers don't want to work on. Yes, they may want the book written. Yes, they may have great content. They may even be one of the best, florid and prolific writers of this century, but if the clickety-clack of the keyboard keys aren't clickety-clackying, then the reality of you churning a book out of thin air just isn’t going to happen.

Making myself write is hard, and sore wrists may potentially be a side effect, but if that's all that's stopping me, then I’m the only one stopping myself!

Here's what to do to overcome your block or that little voice that says you having nothing good to say, or that you can't write worth a hill of beans.

1. Sit down.

2. Open your online document -- your blank piece of paper (or your spiral notebook.)

3. Write. Anything, everything, characters, a list of feelings, your outline, or dialogue. Start with something, then later get an outline, and begin your work of art!

Who knows, if you ease into this writing thing -- like start with a few hundred words a day, then work up to a few thousand-- you won't get carpel Tunnel at all! You really do want to take care of your wrists so that when you are an author, you have your precious wrists to write even greater things ... or if you're like me, good wrists to wring out laundry, take the dog for a walk, or weed the garden.

Whatever it is -- wringing, walking, weeding or writing -- get busy doing the writing and be happy that you are fulfilling a goal.

Changing the World with Your Writing

2011-01-10T14:39:00.000-08:00

Remember how my last post listed "resolution" type blessings on your writing life? Well, I want to get into those blessings with a little more detail.

This week, it's the "May your minds be full of creative, change-the-world-with-your-story- ideas" aspect.

I know. You may think I'm kidding, or that I wrote that one as a joke. But as far-fetched as it sounds, it isn't a joke.

Realistically, a change-the-world story is a crazy concept. We don't necessarily know what and how to change the world; or if what we write will make a difference to anybody. Can we change the world? Should we try to change the world?

Well, if you are passionate about what you write, then (and this is the kicker) it doesn't matter. What you have to do-- as a writer wanting to write something worth ... something -- is make sure that your words are as truthful, honest, heart-felt and real to what you feel and believe as possible.

If you are happy with this, if you are true to your beliefs, if you are writing to the best of your abilities, then who is to say or know that your work couldn't change the world? I'd like to think that if you work hard, keep a creative mind and an open heart to writing something that will help people-- even if it is small, or barely noticeable-- then you already have changed the world.

You are doing your good deeds; you are carrying your cross. You are trying to make a difference.

If you aren't doing this, perhaps you should. Maybe this small move will improve your chances of success (i.e. publication, whether online or in print). And if you already are doing this, then keep at it. Believe in your words, remain dedicated to your stories, and whether you become the next best seller, or influence only ten people with your story or article, you will be successful.

Success, to me, is simply helping or making one person happy, even if this takes years to accomplish.

And even if that one person is you.

Happy 2011

2011-01-01T07:49:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a wonderful new year for all of you writers, readers and bloggers.

May your minds be full of creative, change-the-world-with-your-story- ideas.
May Carpel Tunnel Syndrome not set in until late, like after Thanksgiving, of this year.
May everything you write have that "just what the editor was looking for" quality.
May editing be your favorite --well, at least one of your favorites --hobby this year.
May reading "for fun" actually happen more than twice this year (and not while at the dentist).
May your new year resolutions have something to do with writing an actual letter by hand!
May your coffee (or tea) pot remain full, pressed in, running over and never-ending.

Now seriously, blessings and God's favor on your life this year.

Tron-tastic

2010-12-28T19:20:00.000-08:00

I went to see Tron Legacy today and it was about four thousand times better than I thought it would be. This was surprising because Hollywood has a way of resurrecting old, good things and remaking them into new, bad things.

This isn't to say the original Tron was top-notch. We're talking about a technological movie from the early eighties. How good can that really be? But after seeing Legacy in 3D at IMAX, let's just say I was impressed. Big time. Normally, I don't recommend movies. But, this one was different.

Now, I've already mentioned in an old post that you should never begin writing after having watched a movie and I am not encouraging that here! What I am encouraging is for you to see what a story -- a good story -- is all about, and how it might just help you with your writing too.

It is Transformational: This story was all about THE story. You know, kid loses parents, finds out he has special gift/powers to help this other "world" from being destroyed, overtaken, etc, gains understanding and friends, and ... our hero transforms: he is a new creation and has a new meaning in life. Moral: This story concept, however many times repeated, if done right, makes a great story. (Star Wars, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings.)

It is Tribulation: This is where the hero has to learn and adapt in order to become a better person. And it's where the movie did a decent job. Sam Flynn has to immediately adapt in order to survive, mesh into a new world, and save his father. Our unlikely hero also has to, ultimately, risk losing him too. All of these are elements needed for a good story. And they're in this movie.

It is Triumphant: I won't tell you how the story ends, but I will say that the movie shows battles, gives the characters goals to reach and hurdles to jump over in order to gain victory. That's the essence of a great story.

It is Truthful: I don't mean in the sense of actual Truth. This movie is as far-fetched as me making it into the grid through my old Atari game console. But a timeless move transcends eras. We get truth here; we see the battle between good and evil, free will and the desire for perfection. (This is where the Jesus theme sort of pops into the story, but that's a whole different kind of grid).

It is Tripled: So, it's true that most movies -- ones that do well--come in threes. I'm expecting Legacy to have a follow up, since there was major room for various interpretations in the end. And if it is anything like the second one, I am all for it.

Maybe it was because I hadn't seen a movie in ages, or was getting over an illness. Or maybe it was because the movie brought back fond memories of my youth. Regardless, glowing lights in a digital world filled with motorcycles, sweet fight moves and a decent dance track was something that left me wanting more and wondering: How old will Jeff Bridges be in the next film?

Sickness Can Improve Your Writing

2010-12-22T14:04:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay in posts. I have been sick with the flu, and am still recovering. But, I finally feel like I can sit up at the computer without falling over ... hence, this blog post.

Even though lying down was my main goal through this ordeal, I had time to think about the benefits of being sick. I know. There aren't many. But, trying to be positive does come in handy because I came up with several things to improve my writing skills all whilst wrapped in blankets and coughing my lungs out.

Here's how your flu symptoms can help you:

Fever: I don't know if you've ever noticed this, but some fantastic ideas for stories come to me via a fever. Maybe it's the delirium or that parts of the brain come alive when they are on fire, but I came up with a great idea for a book, and I may even write it ... now, if only I could remember what it was.
Achy Body: Ever wondered how to describe your heroine's heartache and pain? Or your protagonists climactic dual with his evil nemesis? Try explaining the pain that comes with an achy body and put them in your text. There are words you could use to describe it that you haven't learned yet! Bust out a thesaurus, and get busy describing. It's great for the vocab and great for describing to the doc how you truly feel.
Chills: You know how you're supposed to describe that killer snow scene, filled with cold cliffs and icy roads, but it's in the middle of summer at your house? Well, chills are great for not only cooling you off but reminding you how to explain the climate. And what about chills in winter? Well, if you want to know what the antarctic feels like, then there you go. A great setting for your newest thriller!
Cough: So, having a cough is lame. Yes, if you're lucky, you may acquire a six-pack over time. The down side is you won't get to appreciate it when you're well because your significant other will have smothered you with a pillow for some peace and quiet. But, a cough is beneficial. How? You learn the difference between empty and dry ones to productive ones, or even simple tickle-type ones. It's good for your new mystery-- the one where the killer's cough implicates himself.
Bloodshot Eyes/pink eye: The only benefit? You'll look like a vampire. And tell me, who doesn't want this trendy look?

So, think of your cold as a good thing. You'll learn tons about your future characters emotions and feelings and also gain some scenery and setting for your new work. It's learning to be thankful in all things. And not to mention, Nyquil is an awfully nice friend to sit with you through those long nights.

“A Cup of Blah To Go, Please.”

2010-12-12T15:52:00.000-08:00

I was in Starbucks yesterday and over heard a man talking about a book he’s writing. His subject? How we all view things in different perspectives. I was immediately interested, not just because I like hearing about fellow writers and their material, but because he seemed so confident about his subject. I wondered what he meant by it.

He went on to explain, to the woman listening, that “For example, you may look at your cup and see it as a nice drink, or whatever. But, when I look at it, I think of all the resources required to make it, and how it has negatively impacted our environment, etc.” You get the idea.

I wanted to dump my drink onto his head and ask, “Aren't you grateful for anything?”

Normally, these things don’t bother me. I respect people’s opinion -- even if I don’t agree with it. This is what freedom is all about. But, what he was “trying” to explain -- or even defend -- wasn’t rational.

Here he was in a peaceful establishment, one filled with people so blessed --including himself-- that they could go in and buy a days’ worth of groceries for a family of three on ONE cup of coffee, plug his laptop into an outlet that sucked gobs of electricity, all the while sniffing that the very place he was in and enjoying was bent on putting our earth in the dump.

Really? Besides, doesn’t Starbucks use recycled materials for their paper cups already? How “green” does one have to be to be considered green?

And if he was so concerned about Starbuck’s adding emissions to the air, and waste into the earth, what was he doing there anyway? He should be at home, in the dark and the cold (because he isn’t using heat or electricity) writing by hand (no PC to plug in) and by candlelight, using a ceramic mug he can wash over and over. And then maybe I’d believe his words.

What’s worse? His subject wasn’t a new concept. Any editor would roll their eyes and say “Been there done that. Pass” We have enough literature and propaganda about keeping the earth green. I have enough commercials, paper advertisements, reusable bags and recycling cans to remind me constantly to keep the earth green. I keep my thermostat at 67 in the winter (or lower) recycle every glass or plastic item I use in the house, turn off electricity, and still … someone else wants to write about how my paper cup is ruining the world?

I’m not buying it. His words or the book. Until green people truly insist on being green--not just through driving a Prius or using recyclable shopping bags -- then I just DON’T BUY their unsubstantiated words. I do my part, but I am also grateful for everything I have right now: the freedom to drink at a café without wondering if a suicide bomber will come in, to peruse the internet without restriction, to write what I feel without being thrown in jail, and drink my coffee with thanksgiving and joy… before the price of coffee goes up again.

Remember these three things: 1. Actions always speak louder than words. 2. Real writers don't "write" in Starbucks. And 3. most writers know to write something more original ... like "How Our Over-greening the World Made Us Wish We'd Never Listened to Al Gore."

Three Steps to a Great Story

2010-12-06T14:58:00.000-08:00

Today we have another fabulous guest post by author Lori Sinclair, writing about her experiences for our column "Good Things Come from Threes." Enjoy!

Good Things Come From Threes - Three Steps to a Great Story

There is something almost magical about the number three. It has captured our attention as few other numbers have. From the time we are children and learn nursery rhymes such as Three Blind Mice, and The Three Little Pigs, to our adulthood when we are mesmerized by Larry, Curly, and Moe, or the latest trilogy at the box office, the number three is always a guiding presence. We hang out together like the Three Musketeers, and when someone is not welcome they feel like a third wheel.

Why is this?

I took a screenwriting class a few years ago. They taught that everything should be written in a strict Three-Act-Structure. This includes novels, short stories, screenplays, and even magazine and newspaper articles. For any story to be complete it has to have a very distinctive beginning, middle, and an end. The instructor felt that this was somehow connected to the Biblical meaning of the number three. It means “complete”, “entire”, or “finished”. Like a three leaf clover, God has three parts: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In all three parts, He is complete. We are somehow programmed or engrained that when the third piece of something comes around, then we are done. And, so it is with our writing as well.

The Beginning: An introduction. This should comprise 25% of your writing, or word allotment. This is where you set up your story, your characters, or your point of view for articles. To quote Kevin Costner from Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, “and so it begins.”

The Middle: The biggest part of your writing. Like middle age, it is where all of the problems come in. This is where your conflict and drama takes place. It should comprise 50% of your writing, and will be the most intense. Throughout this time your readers should be on the edge of their seats for suspense pieces, make all of your arguments for documentaries and articles, or fall deeply and passionately in love for you romantics out there.

The End: Your conclusion. This will be the remaining 25% of your storyline. This is where you will tie up all of your loose ends. All of your arguments or points should be made, and the story brought to its natural conclusion. If you have a “happily ever after” ending, this is where that will be brought forth. For mysteries or thrillers, here you will reveal your culprits, or make your plot twists that keep everyone entranced. Ideally these will be in the last few pages of your story, but that depends on the ebb and flow of your writing. You also do not want a reader to be able to pick up your book from the shelf, flip to the very last page, and see how it all comes out. Waiting that long can drag out the suspense for too long. You run the risk of losing your reader’s attention. Keep your pace consistent with the story.

Of course, these are just estimates, but you get the point. Without all of these three pieces together, your writing will be incomplete at least, muddled and confused at worst.

“Good things come from threes” is a great theme for any writer. Breaking it down even more, with good plotting and writing, publication will follow, making the cycle complete.

Happy Writing!

Loretta Sinclair

Check out Lori Sinclair's latest Christmas book with a free copy!

Ho, Ho, Hey! What Just Happened?

Holiday enlightenment from an overworked Santa and his testy crew.

Sinclair Publishing, © 2010

Five (more) Reasons to Write

2010-11-27T14:07:00.000-08:00

I did it. The NaNoWriMo, that is. Instead of traveling the pathways of retail with throngs of shoppers, I was inside my house the day after Thanksgiving, writing.

Truthfully, I didn't think I could do it towards the last twenty thousand words or so ... actually, it was more like I didn't think I wanted to do the last twenty thousand. After all, it meant I would have to edit the ugly monster if it went anywhere. And, I think the story may have lacked compelling characters and perfect plot. (Also known as "major issues" with the story.)

But here's the cool part: I have a "book" completed. Hurrah! Not that I'll ever let it grace the eyes of an innocent and unassuming reader. Maybe not even myself, either. Do you know how much groaning and eye-rolling that would require?

Whatever I choose to do (probably leave it on my PC for a long time), here are five things I learned while writing (even 50k words in less than a month) and why it can be good for you too.

You are superwoman (man): Really, writing is tough. We have to come up with something worthy to write about and actually make it sound good. The awesome thing about NaNoWriMo is that my work can read horribly, be so grammatically incorrect and as interesting as a piece of toast, and we are called winners! It's great to feel like superwoman (even if it only lasts a few seconds.)
You learn how to be creative: Making your story come alive is a great way to fuel creativity, especially if you can't afford anything. How? Well, things that you can't do, because lack of funds make it unallowable, is allowable in writing. We live vicariously through our characters, go to places we never visit in real life, and overcome obstacles (that the characters overcome) that we would never have to. That's creative! And hey, maybe applicable to your life one day.
You learn how to be disciplined: This is huge, and a reason why something like only 10% of the NaNoWriMo writers actually complete their novel. It takes an odd sort of dedication to finish something that fast. But this discipline is like using a muscle; once you repeat it enough, it becomes something habitual and useable! I'm learning how to meet deadlines (even if semi-fictitious) learning how to do something I don't want to do (just like exercise) and stretching myself to be a better writer by using these brain "muscles."
You learn that writing is freeing: This is true, you know. Again, like reason number 2, we get to be creative with our art. Writing is almost like being able to live out things we want to say, or do or be, but we don't have to really do it. My back hurt the day after I finished writing my book. Hadn't hurt all month. Do I think this had to do with not being able to free my thoughts? I think so. Free your thoughts, free youself.
You learn to drink lots of coffee without noticing: Okay, so this isn't necessarily a good thing. But I love coffee, so it isn't bad either. Can't tell you how many hundreds of cups of the black stuff I drank and how many times I wondered where it disappeared to. Many writers attest to the disappearance of the drink to some time/space continuum; one they find themselves lost in while immersed in their writing. I fully agree with that theory.

Writing is a wonderful thing, even if it's within the context of a crazy competition, and I'm (hopefully) becoming a better writer. Now, what about you? If you've done NaNo, or just want to share with us your latest endeavor, please do. We are all learning.

Happy writing!

Translation and Writing: So Happy Together

2010-11-22T07:54:00.000-08:00

My guest post today is from Anne Goff, writer and translator who has some great points to make about translation and why we need to think about it when writing. Enjoy!

We're Not So Different, You and I

When I got my degree in translation and when I started working as a translator, I had to deal with a lot of confusion and misunderstanding from my friends and family. I still do. Topping the list of questions I face:

- Just what does a translator do anyway?

And

- Why on earth would you want to be one?

Today, I want to answer question number one. A translator takes a text that is written for one audience and rewrites it for a different audience. In essence – a translator is a writer. All writing is translation and translators are writers who work in two different languages.

“But,” you say, “I’m a writer! I don’t translate!” Are you sure? Really? As a writer you are always thinking of your target audience. (And if you’re not, you should be.) This awareness will impact every word you put on paper.

Let’s illustrate with a story. – A man goes to a party. A lot of alcohol is consumed at this party and tempers flare. A gun is drawn and the man is shot.

Now, how would you tell this story? You don’t know. You can’t. Not until you know who your audience is. Think how differently you will approach this story if your audience is a high school classroom, a roomful of sociologists, an executive of a major motion picture company… The original story may be translated into a morality tale; a case study; or an intense, high-drama, action scene. Each of these translations requires a different vocabulary, a different register, a different final text.

My thought process when translating is very similar. In translating a press release, the story of a company’s achievement, the facts don’t change, but the story does. As I tell such a story to an American audience I will smooth the flowery flourishes of the original French into the calm professionalism appropriate to business communications in the United States.

I cannot be a good translator without being a good writer. And you? You can’t be a good writer without being a good translator. There are a million ways one person can misunderstand another; our job is to translate our source texts, our stories, our thoughts into something our readers will understand and appreciate.

Do you think your job is easier than mine? After all, you’re only contending with one language. I wouldn’t be so quick to dismiss the translative aspects of writing. In the words of Bernard Webber:

Entre
Ce que je pense
Ce que je veux dire
Ce que je crois dire
Ce que je dis
Ce que vous avez envie d'entendre
Ce que vous croyez entendre
Ce que vous entendez
Ce que vous avez envie de comprendre
Ce que vous croyez comprendre
Ce que vous comprenez
Il y'a dix possibilités qu'on ait des difficultés a communiquer.
Mais essayons quand même...

Or, in English:

Between
What I think
What I want to say
What I believe I say
What I say
What you want to hear
What you believe you hear
What you hear
What you want to understand
What you believe you understand
What you understand
There are ten possibilities that we’ll have difficulties communicating.
But let's try anyway, shall we?

Translation and writing both attempt the impossible – to communicate not the words, but the ideas of one mind to another. Impossible, right? See, therein lies the fun. But now I’m answering the wrong question. What was I supposed to be saying? Oh, right – a translator is a writer!

-Anne

Happy writing.

Will (Not) Work For Free (Forever)

2010-11-16T14:59:00.000-08:00

There is a time and place to write for free. I think we all understand that. And there's a time to acquire your skill, be a lowly intern -- basking in the bottom-dwelling ranks of the work place -- and we're generally okay with it because we know that's how it works; that's how we get to be paid one day -- and of course, how we hope to move up to a slightly higher rung of the ladder.

However, there comes a time, when we get past that; where we are at the higher rung, and now looking down at those below us with a smile. When and if we work pro-bono, it's because we're helping someone else, or we feel the cause is so worthy, we just have to donate our time or risk feeling like a loser.

I have a writer-friend, who also happens to be a snazzy French-to-English translator, who has her own business AEG Translations-- in other words, she's a PROFESSIONAL. Also meaning, she gets paid to do the job; the one she studied and worked hard for. Yet, to her dismay and the absolute hilarity of it all, she seems to get a lot of people asking her to work for them ... for free.

Her rebuttal to the latest request was on her blog, and I laughed and agreed so much, that I had to repost it. No, she didn't actually send this reply (I don't think) but it sure made me smile.

Here it is:

Dear John,
Thank you for the message! I am happy to provide test translations to potential clients. I understand that this is a test translation, that I will not be paid for this work, and that it does not guarantee that I will ever receive paying work from you. I know how important it is to verify that the people you work with can perform as promised.

To that end, while I'm working on the test translation, there is something that I need you to do. In order to ensure that clients can meet payment deadlines and that there will be no problems with the chosen payment method, I require a test payment from all new clients. To make sure that your account has not been flagged by the chosen payment service the test payment will need to represent a reasonable sum of money. Please send US$600 to my account before the end of the business day tomorrow. (This test payment is non-refundable.) My payment information is included at the end of this email.

I'm sure you will understand why such measures are necessary.
I look forward to working with you!
Sincerely,
Anne

If you too have had one of these "experiences," share it! We'd love to hear about it. Anne, thanks for writing out what we really want to say sometimes.

-HJS

Good Things Come From Threes - Guest Post by Kimberly Rempel

2010-11-08T08:46:00.000-08:00

Today's a great day for a guest post. Why? Because I get to host a post written by author Kimberly Rempel, whose book Beauty in Darkness is now out and ready to read. (Oh, and I'm still working on my NaNoWriMo so this post is perfect timing).

I've decided to start a column called "Good Things Come from Threes," because it's true. You've heard the phrase "Third time's the charm," right? Well, I find that answers I'm looking for in work and home -- even answers I'm not looking for-- usually get verified in a process of three affirmations. (Though sometimes, they're not good.)

It's no different for a writer. There is easily a zillion combinations of three things that can propel you to write, edit and have your book published.

It's just a matter of making sure to recognize what they are! Take a look.

Good Things Come from Threes -The Path to Publication

First, thank you Heather for your invitation to guest post. I’m so excited to share the top 3 things that helped me become a published writer. The release of my first book, has caused me to look back a lot. The project spanned a couple of decades (wow … now I feel old) so I needed to look back - to reconnect with what I’d written, and to remember the things that helped me along the way.

Publishing Beauty in Darkness has taught me a lot already. Marketing however, is a whole other story. I just want to quickly share with you the synopsis: “Glimpse a soul exposed, explore truth and observe heart secrets. And somewhere between cigarettes, germs and baby toes, as we examine this soul open before us, we see in ourselves the need for Beauty In Darkness.

If you’d like to get your hands on a copy of this highly praised collection, email me at dawn123@mts.net. We can send it straight to you ($15 including shipping), or you can get in on the blog tour coming up, and generate traffic to your blog while getting your copy for FREE.

Okay, enough of that. Here are the 3 biggest things that helped me to become a published writer.

Writing Mentor: Many moons ago when I was still a closet writer, I happened to discover that one of my customers was a writer. She took an interest, and we arranged monthly meetings where she would critique my work. I had shown my work to family before, and received the "Atta girl" I hoped for, but it hadn’t helped me to improve my writing.

But this woman pushed me. She questioned each word, painstakingly evaluated the sound, rhythm and implication of each stanza. She taught me basic writing rules: "show, don’t tell" and "involve all 5 senses," as well as "Use short, concise sentences." She was ruthless. My writing improved dramatically.

Writers’ Club: Soon I got up the nerve to join an out-of-town writers’ club and later even co-founded a local one. The critiques received in those meetings are priceless! I am continually pushed to excel, to improve, to persevere. It’s amazing to hear each writer give their unique critique of a work. I learn so much from what others contribute – and my writing toolbox continues to grow.

It’s daunting to lay your words on the altar of another’s critical eyes. (i.e. – writers’ club critique time) One of the big lessons I learned right at the beginning was that it is the words that are critiqued, not the person. Phewf!

Deadlines: Perhaps it’s the procrastinator in me, but I work best under deadlines and pressure. My face may contort and speech become little more than distracted grunts, but I sure get writing done! Without deadlines, I tend to float around convincing myself that "I’ll get to it yet." Yeah, right. One author advocates that writing happens not by waiting on epiphany or timing, but by "applying butt to chair." Yes, yes it does. And deadlines are the glue that helps me apply butt to chair. Nice image, I know. Classy.

So those are my ‘top 3’. I’d love to hear what works for others! Maybe locking oneself in a room for 30 days until 50,000 words form a story is one of those priceless motivators…

-Kimberly Rempel

NaNoWriMo--What is that?

2010-11-02T13:27:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I thought the same thing too: What kind of weird name is NaNoWriMo?

It’s weird because it stands for National Novel Writing Month. And it’s something I kept seeing a lot of my writing friends sign up for in the month of October. Did that make them as weird as the name for doing this too? Yes and no.

While I’d heard about this “contest” over the years, I wasn’t too sure about it. After all, it’s about writing 50,000 words in 30 days. Not only is that grueling, but it’s also demoralizing.

Seriously, can you image how bad the material is after 30 days of (no-holds-bar, no-looking-back without editing) writing? Pretty horrendous. But then, that’s what the month of December is for: to correct the hideous beast one might want to call a manuscript.

Why am I blogging about this? Because I think I might just dive into the month-long craziness and do it for myself too. Well, it's more than maybe, because I’ve already signed up!

Yes, I’m way too busy. Yes, it’s madness. Yes, it’s something that I might fail miserably at and not even finish. But hey, since when has that mattered before?

I know how to fail (easily the winner in my family), I’m busy anyway (yeah, kids, dog, husband, house and work just isn’t enough), and I’m a writer (I’ve already been diagnosed as mad. And it's irreversible. I mean, really, who in their right mind would write for a living?)

But, you know what? I can fail forward. I plan on learning tons this month about the writing process.

I do, however, have a couple of things to ask you to honor:

1. Don’t ask me what I’m writing about. I have no clue.

2. Don’t ask for snippets of it to dissect. Even I won’t do that to myself until Dec.

3. Forgive my absence, as blog posts become less frequent. Hopefully I’ll have lots of tasty morsels to write about when I’m done with this project.

4. Sign up like me! It’s not too late. We’ll get great practice, have great fun, and become great insane, individuals wondering what the heck we were thinking when we’re done.

I’m already a day late in starting the book that I don’t know how to write, so I better get crackin'. Happy writing to you too. This might be the best way to get that “idea” for a book out on paper. There’s nothing like now to do what you’ve always wanted!

Voting and You

2010-11-01T12:54:00.000-07:00

For me, voting is a complete privilege and an amazing freedom. It’s also a responsibility that I think we as free (as of now) Americans have to participate in order to keep our freedom. Most of the time when I hear about government, politics or campaigning, I don’t think of my simple vote as integral to the "pushing forth" of what I want to see. Yet, how can I not think that it is? If multitudes of people feel as I do, and I know they do, then we’re missing out on making a difference if we don't vote.

However, plenty of people don’t feel this way. They’re disillusioned by the past (Nothing has changed, so why make the effort?) Some think voting is a waste of time (Hey, I’m just one vote. Big deal). But maybe that’s because they’re not passionate enough about their philosophy? Maybe they’re not passionate enough about having a voice because freedom doesn’t mean much to them anymore? Have we forgotten that we GET to have a voice here in the USA?

Even if we don’t like any of the candidates, it doesn’t mean we can’t find a way to get a great candidate for the next election through our selection right now. By not voting, we’re letting other voters choose our future for us. Even if you think that’s fine and dandy today, what happens when you finally feel you need your voice heard? That door may already be closed.

All I know is that in the past (I do absentee now), when I got to my polling place, I didn’t fear someone would bomb it. I didn’t fear that other people would shun me, come after me, hound me or shoot me, all because of how I voted. We still live in a place that allows major freedoms in our voting system. We get to vote --to choose --what we think is right for our country and not what a king dictates for us to choose as it once was for us, hundreds of years ago -- and unbelievably, still is in other parts of the world.

Your freedom to vote is a luxury. If the government isn't to your liking, or even if it is, exercise your right to make a difference in whatever way you want. Do it for your fellow Americans. And most of all, do it for your own conscience and soul.

Puppies and Sly Dogs

2010-10-27T16:23:00.000-07:00

I seriously thought about writing a blog post about my new dog. Because, hey, that’s a huge deal. A puppy is like a toddler. And a toddler, to any family, can be stressful.

But I hadn’t figured out yet if there was a literary angle to this potential puppy post; like if having a dog made me write better, faster or worse, or not at all since I spend more time training, feeding and playing with her than anything else. But I didn’t get to think that far ahead. The blog post wasn’t to be about my dog. Sorry puppy.

It was to be about the break-in at my house. Yes, it was the real deal. The thief entered our (locked) home, rifled through our things just hoping for something good. Fortunately for us, and unfortunately for him, we didn’t have anything valuable in the house, other than the kids, and they were both at school.

I’m sure he thought he would get in and out scot-free. After all, he had thievery down to a science since he’d just tried the same trick down our street minutes before. He parked his car in our driveway and that was key to breaking in (excuse the pun). If people see a car in the driveway, they think we know the person. Very sly.

He had to be on his way out when we arrived because when my husband confronted him -- after noticing not only the car but also two of our house doors wide open -- the burglar politely told my husband, “Sorry Sir, I didn’t take anything. I’m just going to leave.”

Yeah, um, when someone breaks into your house, and he calls you sir, it doesn’t change the fact that you want the idiot to be responsible for his actions! This is when my husband grabbed him and they wrestled all the way outside. The punk jumped our fences, grabbed his own wallet from his car (don’t know how he had time to think of that) and ran.

I got to make the wonderful 911 call. I’ve never called them before in my life. That was all for 48 Hours Mystery, or someone else. But I did it, and it was rather frantic. Afterall, I was watching my husband try to keep the dude from bolting, give a physical description, remain calm and talk rationally. Not easy.

The bad guy got away. But not for long. We positively identified him. Would you be shocked to know he was on parole for burglary? Yeah, mind numbing. The police are picking up the dummy as I write. On a good note: it was cool to see CSI at our house. Of course, it was nothing like the fake show. But still, very cool. All the police and sheriff were awesome too.

Lesson: Keep the puppy out of her kennel when we’re gone, even if it means she’ll tear apart her bed, rip up the doormat and euphorically pick apart my houseplant, leaf by leaf. My dog barks. That’s a good thing. Had she been out of her kennel, the perpetrator would’ve never come in.

Was it terrifying? Yes. Are we better prepared in keeping safe in the future? Yes. And for me, I already know everything works together for good. Even the bad stuff. Angels were watching over us. And most importantly, the thief didn’t carry a weapon. Had he? Well, this blog post wouldn’t even be happening. Oh, and if anything else good came from it, it’s fodder -- heck, nothing beats real life experiences-- for a great story.

Recycling Your Ideas

2010-10-23T07:57:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had a wonderful idea for a book but when you got it on paper, things (i.e. the ENTIRE story) just sort of fell flat? The characters weren’t as deep as you’d like, the storyline not as punchy as you intended and as for actual material, well, just imagining writing another seventy thousand words made you break out into a sweat.

If this sounds like you, then stop what you’re doing. This is the part when you don’t force yourself to write all because you though it should be a story. If you do, in a matter of days --if not hours -- you’re going to dread it. Your work will not only become laborious, but the very zeal and gusto you once had for the idea will fall so flat you’ll ponder your sanity for coming up with the idea in the first place.

I’ve done this before, and not five thousand words into it, I wondered if there was hope enough that the story would be something even I would want to read in the end.

So, what’s the solution? Well, don’t instantly think you have to scrap the story all because it’s dead in the water. I’m a firm believer in not wasting anything. Scrap food goes to compost (or the new dog IF she’s lucky and well behaved), clothes are worn until there are real holes in the knees and pill balls on the sweater. Even the shampoo, that lasts longer than the conditioner, is saved for future use.

Instead of tossing the story, rework and recycle your material. What you intended for a novel, might be better used as a short story. A story you think would work great as a personal essay may instead work great as flash fiction. And what about that story you thought might make the best women’s fiction novel, which really needs to be a poem?

If something isn’t working right, don’t think of it as the short, happy life of a story never written. Set the work aside, think about it, and come back to it with fresh eyes later. If you still think you can’t make it the great American novel you wanted, then maybe you need to recycle it.

This has happened to me. What I thought would make a great book, ended up being a two-thousand-word short story. And this was after an outline, character names, and thought-out plot and progression. Finding the right “recycling bin” is sometimes all it takes to make your story the masterpiece it really is, even if that masterpiece is no longer a novel but an eight-line poem.

Try reusing your material for something else and watch your words reignite the spark you saw in your story from the very beginning. Not every story needs to be a book. Not every book needs to be a thriller or romantic comedy. Change things up. Try different genres. Maybe the nonfiction family memoir idea really needs to be a science-fiction short story.

Recycle your ideas -- be willing to change -- and your writing world will reinvent itself into something remarkable.

Happy writing!

All Aboard!

2010-10-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

Two days before I left for vacation, I was on the phone making reservations for the
Polar Express Train Ride. What is that? Well, it's exactly what the name implies: a train ride based on the book The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg.

I'd say that I was only doing this for my children, but that wouldn't totally be accurate. Something with this much hype had to be good for me too. At least I hoped so.

The Polar Express

Select cities all over America, and one in Canada, utilize trains (available from their railroad museums or railways) and transform them into replicas from the book -- complete with dancing waiters and hot chocolate. Passengers even get to wear their pajamas.

While I’d heard that this was an extraordinary event, one my kids couldn’t miss, what I wasn’t prepared for was the mad dash --the absolute insane intensity-- that every parent in my city dove into on October first at 9 in the morning. It was like getting tickets for the concert of a lifetime.

Thirty minutes, three phones and one computer later, we got through. Yes, that was three phones. I had one cell phone, the other hand was on the keyboard trying to navigate the slammed website, and my husband had the landline and his cell phone.

I’m happy to say we got tickets.

But I’m equally as happy to see how one simple book created so much excitement over trains and Christmas. While it helped that the movie was a success, furthering to promote the book, what’s even more fabulous is that a children's book is at the crux of the whole Polarpalooza.

When promotion includes children's reading, trains and family time, instead of television and video games, I’d say it’s an event worth talking about. And that it includes chocolate of some sort is a major bonus.

Now, for the real question: Do I really dare to wear pajamas on the train along with my kids?

Poetic Manna

2010-10-11T08:02:00.000-07:00

Being away in Maui for a week is a little like getting a lobotomy. I can't think rightly or clearly, and no way can I give a passing thought to writing a blog post.

This is why it's absolutely perfect timing that I wrote a guest post before I left for vacation which is now at Write for Charity and up today!

Below is a little snippet of the blog post.

Just like “Autodidact,” the poem that Write for Charity picked for their wonderful book, From the Heart, I wrote “Motherhood is a like a Pacemaker” when one particular day seemed just a bit too overwhelming ; when I wondered if the work I was doing as a mother really counted for much.

Like this poem, motherhood sort of transcends the normal, yet is required to keep the normal. There are difficulties that motherhood presents to us at times — and yes, there are happiness and joys, rewards and fulfillment involved too — but the role of a mother is never easy. It always receives, yet it also requires. It always is, but has to be ready for was or will be … or just plain won’t.

Click here for the rest of the post and the poem.

-Heather

When Not to Write

2010-09-30T16:09:00.000-07:00

Okay, so you’ve all heard that a writer can write anytime he or she darn well pleases. And that writers should write whenever they can.

But what about times when writers shouldn’t write? Are there any rules for that, or is this just an excuse to use when there’s a deadline looming?

Sure, procrastination can be detrimental to your career. But maybe there are times when it’s not such a bad idea? That maybe stepping away from the computer can benefit your work?

Here’s a list of times when I know I should NOT write for fear of losing the Muse and my mind.

1. After I’ve submitted a manuscript.
This may seem counterintuitive, but it’s not. When you submit a manuscript, or an article or poem or hey, even a blog post, it’s time to celebrate! Time to focus on a job well done. Don’t start another novel. It squelches your current glory, well, at least mine anyway. Enjoy the satisfaction of hard work sent off into eager agent’s/editor’s hands- and then write.

2. After I’ve been out all day running errands.
This may seem dumb, but trust me, I lose my skills --or whatever you want to call it-- when I am out picking up groceries, having the car repaired, or running to Target. An errand or two, maybe I can get away with. But a half of a day? No way, doesn’t work. Because by the time I get my rear end in a chair, I CAN’T focus long enough before I have to start dinner, get kids to bed, etc. You see my predicament.

3. After I’ve seen a movie.
Wow, this is a weird one. But it’s also true too. There’s something about movies-- kind of like the very reason they make them-- that makes me want to write the next great story that every producer and director in Hollywood will want, which in turn everyone in the world will want to watch. Don’t do it! Write down an idea or two, and wait for the euphoria to pass. Then you can look at your notes … and throw them away.

4. After I’ve read the best book ever!
Very much like number three, do NOT try to write after you’ve read the best, heart wrenching, anxiety-ridden, edge-of-your-seat book. I’ve tried this before. All I ever write is garbage. Really. Because inevitably, I sound so much like the author I’ve just read that what ends up on my computer is a washed-out, copycat mess that no one -- and I mean no one -- should read. Read the book, let it simmer and then maybe in a day or two try to write. Maybe. Even then, that might be too soon.

5. After I’ve written for six days.
Take the seventh day off. Some people write five days a week, some write three. Whatever the amount, for God’s sake (no really, for God’s sake take a Sabbath) take the seventh day off and recuperate. I do this. It’s not only something to look forward to-- even though I love writing-- but it’s a chance to focus 100 percent on my family; something other than my work.

6. Before I’ve had my coffee.
Do I really need to elaborate on this one?

Now, get out there, and write --or not-- and see how some of your best stuff will show up with practice, education and more practice. Write on!

Characters That Work

2010-09-24T09:31:00.000-07:00

I’ve heard countless times that agents, when looking for the next great manuscript and readers, looking for the next great read, want compelling characters. But, what does this mean? Compelling? And why have I never thought of characters as compelling when I can’t put the book down? Sure, these characters are amazing, and sometimes I want to be in the middle of the stories as if they were my own experiences. But why?

Compelling characters make me --force me-- to be in love with them as they find their way through trials or charge fearlessly down hidden hallways and dark forests. This makes for wonderful literature, and for fascinated readers. But how do we do this? How do authors create compelling characters -- ones that not only we want to read but others too -- and convince our readers that they should care about them?

Here’s a tiny list by which I try to strive:

Make them human: This is a given. And most writers would tell you this is. Give your character flaws that lots of people have or even flaws that only some of us have. Give us your poor and needy, and you’ve got a character most everyone can identify with. Fears, insecurities, bad habits. These human characteristics are all important for a true character, which in turn, makes them compelling.

Give them a goal: If the character isn’t striving to overcome a huge goal, or meddling with a huge personal sacrifice, what’s going to make me turn the pages? Why would I care about a perfect character without any goals? I wouldn’t. That’s a non-compelling character no one identifies with. Plot-less, character-less books don't make for happy readers. Give your characters goals, and you’ve got attractive people.

Give them a problem: I’ve heard this, most recently from Mary Kole from a Writeoncon “class,” to absolutely, without a doubt, give your characters a problem. In other words, what’s the worst possible thing that could happen to this person? Or take it the other way and figure out what’s the best thing that could happen? (which, should inevitably lead to a problem). This propels the story, makes more personal the character for the reader to relate to, and gives the writer awesome characters.

Make them learn: Don’t forget to make your character learn through this goal/problem that they overcame. If they’re worse off than when the story began, or didn’t learn a thing, talk about an unfulfilled reader! And really, as a writer, it should be unfulfilling for you if by the end of your story nothing's changed. Your characters, especially the protagonist, need to learn something about themselves and their world around them, in order to create not only a great story but satisfying characters.

If you utilize these four things, and yes there are many more layers to this list, it’s the basics for some amazing characters. And if you have compelling characters, then more importantly, you will have both agents and readers compelled to read your works.

-Heather

* This blog post would not be possible without the gentle coercion from Elana Johnson, writer, writing teacher (Writeoncon, Query Tracker Blog, and League of Extraordinary Writers) and amazing person. Thanks for the inspiration and for reminding me how to write compelling characters. *

Posting Productivity

2010-09-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

For all of you procrastinating, I’ll-do-it-later, just-leave-me-alone people who are trying to find a way to become productive in your own life -- and a more organized member of your family-- perhaps I have the answer you’ve been waiting for.

This may come as a complete shock, but if you’re willing to buy a pack of Post-It Notes©, and a pen or pencil - anything that will create tangible writing (no, the computer monitor doesn’t count -- you need something you can actually scroll a pen over) you will find yourself fast becoming productivity’s friend. Are you ready? This is what you need to do:

Write down all the important things you need to do today.

Now, I can hear you thinking, “Whoa, hold on there. Don’t you think that’s a little too simple? I mean, lists? Come on, I thought you were going to give me a life-changing idea.”

But, I have. See, if you’re anything like me, I feel productive when I’ve accomplish something worthwhile to myself; something I place value in doing. I understand that this is subjective; that accomplishing something “worthwhile” for some is climbing Mt. Everest and for others, like me, it’s just getting on the treadmill for twenty minutes. But God gives us a certain amount of hours per day, and if we end that day without an accomplished goal, what exactly did we do with our time? Did we waste our time or spend it wisely?

The thing about lists is that they are the “to-do” not only for the day, but also for our future. By writing out what we need to do daily (wash the car, go to the gym, read two chapters of book) our goals are clear. We accomplish much, rather than wasting it doing frivolous and often-inconsequential things like checking our Facebook friends or staring endlessly into opened refrigerators.

Seeing your “to-dos” in front of you reminds you to check those things off until you’re done, and even possibly, make us feel a little guilty if we don’t.

To be honest, I didn’t believe in all this list “stuff” either. I saw my sister doing it and thought she was bonkers. But when I decided to do it for one day, I was amazed. I not only finished everything -- because suddenly it forced me to accomplish things rather than twiddle by thumbs -- but found myself irrevocably proud of what I’d done. If I could do this for one day, what would happen if I wrote a list out every day? What amazing things would I be able to achieve if I wrote out a list all the time?

Let’s get one thing straight though: lists don’t define you. Obviously, we don’t have to follow them to a T to be successful. But it’s a guide; a map to remind you where you are and where you want to go. A simple list, one with a few relevant “to-dos” that you can cross off when completed, (yes, this is very satisfying) is something you have to try once.

Lists are like a stepping-stone that help us reach our peak productivity because it forces us to figure out what’s important, and what’s not.

It’s a very simple concept. But this concept has the possibility to change your life for good. And who doesn’t need a good dose of change every now and then? Let me know how this works for you. Did you accomplish more with a list? Or, if it didn’t do a thing for you, why? Forward this to friends who you think need help (or those who don't, but just love sticky notes.) Tell me about it, and maybe we can all help each other become productive.

-Heather

From Not to Net

2010-09-13T15:10:00.000-07:00

Networking. It's a tough job. And it’s a job that sometimes, though very beneficial, doesn't feel like it counts for much. After all, as my "punny" husband so kindly pointed out, there's only one little letter that turns "networking" into "notworking."

That got me thinking: Is networking really me not working? Then I asked myself - while I was busy throwing dagger-like glances at my husband: Just because I don't get paid for this, is it still considered real work?

I'd like to think that this work of finding people with similar interests to not only be friends with but become fellow blog followees, has helped me with my writing career; one that could potentially pay me a few dollars. As of now, it's all free; all my time and energy isn't compensated for. So in order to feel like I'm doing something worthwhile, I prefer to think of my time spent networking without pay as an internship; the whole paying-my-dues-before-I-get-paid thing. And not as “not-working.”

What I’ve found, through all of this networking, is that the friends I make (through Facebook, Twitter and the like) don’t join my list of “friends” as just another friend. They all count as friends; as real friendships. Yes, I have to spend time to make friends. And the old adage we heard growing up “in order to have friends, you must be a friend,” is relevant in this case too.

While I can’t know everyone like I know my true best friends, I understand that this friend-making isn't wasted time. They're friends whom I trust and rely on for help and they’re all from the online world. Without them, I couldn't have gotten this far; I'd never have had the nerve to take that step of faith and get my writing out there. The friends I'm following are in my best interest so that I can not only learn from them, but help them too. And hopefully, I’m their friend for the same reason. If not, well, that’s their problem.

Having a following of people who like my blog can't hurt a future in writing either. That’s a given. Unless, of course this following finds out that I really can't write. Then the answer is no, I’ll never have a career in writing, and now I just have a bunch of friends like me with common interests. But, that’s not exactly a bad alternative reaction to my endeavors, is it?

Everything I've done up until now -- reading, researching, seeking friends, mentors and like-minded writers or readers -- has taught me copious amounts about my career and field, especially from authors who've already been there and "done that." And if all I net are friends, then that's still time well spent.

Just because I’m not paid for this “work,” doesn’t invalidate it. If I trust my talents and time as productive and focus on the things I feel led to research, then I can learn from it all. "What is the answer then?" I hear you ask: Work your hardest, be a good friend, and you’ll reap a harvest when the season arrives. And think about this (written by the wise-writer Solomon) the next time you might think your networking is a waste of time: “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty” (Proverbs 14:23, NIV). Get busy networking.

For me, I’ll continue to network while I blog/write. But I’ll also stick to my day job, or rather, my husband’s job, as most of my writing and taking care of the kids -- last time I checked-- is still salary-free.

-Heather

Ralphie and Glenn: Two Peas in a Pod?

2010-09-09T16:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, this isn't a political statement, nor is it a way to jump start Christmas, but do you notice a resemblance between these two people? Maybe it's just me, but they sort of look related.

Perhaps you're laughing, perhaps you agree, perhaps you think this is a waste of a blog post. Regardless, the first time I saw Beck with his glasses, I told my husband that he looked like Ralphie, you know, the kid from A Christmas Story. And I still think he does.

No, this guest post has nothing to do with writing, and it's not really writer's food of any kind (well, maybe it is) but I suppose it is food for thought. The glasses give Ralphie such an endearing quality. And they do the same for Glenn. Um ... I think. Or is that a bit of a stretch for some of you? - Heather

A Happy Medium

2010-09-05T16:57:00.000-07:00

Ah, the paper and pen: that duo is such a powerful and magnificent reverence to our literary past. So much so for me, that I used to write only long hand in the early days of my "authorship." It’s how I thought true writers really should write because in all honesty, there’s something to be said for feeling the words lick off the ink or lead, throwing caution to the wind, and getting those words out at which to marvel. But, this was erroneous thinking, and the error was believing it was the only way to write.

I changed my thinking about this a few years ago when writer’s block was having at it with me. I decided to sit at the computer and write something, anything, that didn’t have to do with what I was currently stuck in with my paper canvas. Lo and behold, after typing away and finding paragraphs and pages of quick, good material appear, I realized I was beginning to understand how people wrote books solely on the computer. It was remarkable. What I first thought to be boring and bleak really had an amazing advantage. The biggest one? Ideas entered the page within seconds on the PC, versus minutes with handwriting. Having written papers long hand in school for years, and then transferred to the computer as a final draft, I didn’t actually think of starting a project on the computer screen to begin with. Oh, woe is me ... and to think I had been showing my age too!

With either method of writing, using both allows me to change my medium for variation -- to change the scenery if I’m having an “off” day -- yet still supplies me with the same outcome: finished, written material.

If you could only choose one method for writing, would you feel short-changed? I didn’t think I was. I felt superior really; being able to grab what I wanted to say onto paper with my snobberish notebook-buying, pen-purchasing club-of-one. But that was absurd. Because today, I love writing on the computer. In fact, this essay was written wholly on Microsoft Word© and I’m extremely happy about it.

Yet, I must divulge the drudgery of computer writing as well. There are times, when a blank screen tears at my creative soul, leaving me as pale and wan as the screen itself. Somehow, that white and dismal virtual piece of paper has the power to suck the creative juices out of me; like an electrical vampire, leaving me lifeless ... and just plain dumb.

That’s when I revert to my precious paper notebooks and put the bleached pulp to my nose, watching the ink flow out of the tip of the pen like a waterfall over the proverbial writer’s block mountain, down to the river of words. Yes, old ways die very hard indeed.

So which one do I choose? I don’t. I use both. Here’s the moral: don’t choose one medium over another to create your masterpiece. Your canvas is workable utilizing both methods. What do I do when neither of these methods creates a work of art? I stop, close the notebook (the real or the electrical one) and set my writing aside. I use that time instead to read and absorb other people’s words, their style and flow. It still helps my writing, only I don’t have to do any actual typing or scribbling.

Are you stuck in a rut? Switch things up a bit. And don’t be afraid to try new ways to find your muse.

-Heather

Writing with Design in Mind

2010-08-30T15:42:00.000-07:00

Today for Manna Monday, I'm the guest post blogger for Rebecca Ward Design.
Hope you enjoy.

I have this passion for writing. You know, stories, articles, fiction, poetry. So I’m sure you’re wondering: How can she possibly relate writing to interior design?

In all honesty, I was stumped when first presented with the idea of guest blogging for a designer. Some designers have the ability to write, but not all writers can design.

Then I realized, after thinking about it, that a well-designed room has a story to tell. And that these stories, the rooms or buildings, set the background information for most books. The design ends up being critical to specific scenes or dialogue because it sets the mood and temperament, and reveals detail necessary for a quality story.

This is accomplished through any and every thing: the color of the walls, the style of the protagonist’s favorite chair, texture of a bedroom duvet or even the run-down fifties-era kitchen. These descriptions all have to do with design.

How is this true? Well, look at your favorite book-turned-movie and you’ll see exactly what I’m talking about. Take Harry Potter’s less than perfect sleeping conditions at his Uncle and Aunt’s house, in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, and watch how it comes alive with just a few words: “Harry found a pair [of socks] underneath the bed, and after pulling a spider off one of them, put them on. Harry was used to spiders because the cupboard under the stairs was full of them, and that was where he slept.” The mixture of socks and spiders is what sets the scene. The set decorator (to me, also known as an interior designer) has to find the creepiness factor and does this by splashing the room with cobwebs and darkness. This is design and literature meshed to perfection.

Mystery writer, Michele Scott writes this in her novel, Murder Uncorked. “The furniture was done in distressed leather and warm woods. The walls were painted a gold tone, and a Navajo rug hugged the hard wood floors.” Michele’s writing and interior design descriptions make me want to go there … and live their too!

Writing and design blend well because together it sells the story; it makes the scene and characters not only come to life, but through these details we feel, smell and hear everything we read.

With that thought, I have to inform you of something amazing. What if you could see this idea of design and literature in action? What if you could go to a place with rooms designed for specific authors, mixed with elements from their works, from Virginia Wolfe to Mark Twain or Tolkien and Emily Dickinson? What if this was on oceanfront property and you could not only visit this place but stay in it?

At Sylvia Beach Hotel, in Nye Beach, Oregon, you can. This is a book-lovers hotel, inside and out. There’s even a restaurant called “Table of Contents,” and a library on the third floor that takes up the entire west wing. It’s literature and design together!

Take Agatha Christie’s room for example, it has a private deck, fireplace and ocean view. As soon as you’re a guest in this room, you can read from Christie’s books and even find clues from each mystery hidden somewhere in the room. Hello? This is incredible. And it proves that writing about interiors, and even matching it with the author and their writing, not only creates great literature but also creates unforgettable characters and authors.

Writing and design are relatable and necessary to each other. And I think without it, books would pretty awful stuff to read. The interior design is what pulls me in as a reader or writer into the story. It's crucial for vivid imagery and feeling. And it's something writers shouldn't forget about, particulaly to bond the reader to the characters. Quite honestly, if the design aspect were to disappear, it just might signal the end times.

-Heather

Write This Down

2010-08-28T14:01:00.000-07:00

I had a great conversation with a writer-friend of mine this week. She and I have been in a similar predicament for the past few years, in that most of our energy and time has gone into raising our children, and not into the world we so longingly want to delve into: writing.

Our kids, of course, and the time we give them is valuable time dedicated. We understand that. We chose to forego our passion of writing for them instead. But, we also discussed why some writers -- as busy as us --were still able to write while raising a family. Did they have extra help? Was their writing so miraculous that their brains just downloaded the stuff onto their computer in mere minutes? What did they do differently?

Obviously, many women and men raise their children and manage to write; perhaps even write bestsellers (ahem ... Mrs. Meyers). So what’s the difference between them and us? What was it that made them more productive? It comes down to something very simple: these authors wanted to write more than anything.

There's no good time to start writing. It's just like having kids. A lot of people “wait for the right time." But seriously, when is that? When you have more money? When you're done with school? When you learn the tango, travel to Japan, and master the Finnish language? There is no perfect time to have kids. Nor is there any perfect time to write. There will always be something else you “need” to do instead.

The truth is that people do what they want to do. While that may sound incredibly redundant, it’s true. And I was a victim to that laziness. If I wanted to write, then regardless of the kids, regardless of the messy house, the dishes, the husband, or laundry, I was going to have to make time for this passion or I would never get it done.

Write down your ideas.
If you're anything like me, having children has irrevocably taken your brain and turned it to mush. I can barely remember the thread of a conversation, let alone a great literary idea. So, I keep paper near me when I watch TV, read, write or even eat. Whatever it is, dialogue or storyline, I write it down.

I've made the mistake in the past saying "Oh, I'll remember that idea. I don't need to write that one down," only to have forgotten the essence of the idea within minutes. We need to write our ideas down so that when we have a little time to write, we'll have something from which to draw.

Make time to write.
If the only time we have is after the kids get to bed, then work with that! Successful people don't whine about not having time or resources. They just make it happen. Writing is no different. Write when the time is available; early in the morning, late at night. Whenever it is, do it, because books and articles don't write themselves. If you only get fifteen minutes at a time, then work with that (then read this article http://www.jessimac.com/, "Do you want to write? Then lie to (yourself)").

People do what they want to do. I finally believe this and say the phrase all the time to my kids when they complain they can't "clean their room" or are "too tired to brush their teeth." I'm not sure that my almost-four-year old understands this fully, but really, what does that matter? If he gets the reaping and sowing concept, which is what I’m trying to teach him through my work, then he’s gained something worthwhile.

Anything worth doing is going to be difficult. Do you want to act? Then find the time to take a theater class. Do you want to design a car? Then start designing it, even if you work at a fast-food place by day.

We get to give life to our dream. And if we can dream it, then we can do it.

-Heather

Striving Laundry

2010-08-25T07:51:00.000-07:00

It's not Manna Monday, but I have a great guest post by writer Alisa Hope Wagner for which I couldn't wait. Enjoy.

I have been anxiously striving to finish edits on my first book. My mind has been consumed with writing, and I’m constantly telling myself to get to work. I feel the pressure of a deadline, and I told God one afternoon, “I can’t wait until I’m done.”

I could sense God smile and say, “Then you’ll start your second book.”

I stopped in my tracks. I realized that I will never be finished. When I’m done climbing this mountain, God will have another one for me in the distance. While I’m alive on this earth, God will always place promises for my life in the horizon.

God places promises beyond each of us; and as we move closer to them, God is able to mold us into the likeness of His son. Promises are in the core of Jesus; they pull us toward Him like gravity and slowly perfect us into our original design.

At that moment, I had a reality check. Obviously my perspective was wrong because God would not want me to be anxious about anything (Philippians 4.6).

How do we strive towards God’s promises without becoming overwhelmed? How do we find balance and joy in a life that will always be pulled toward higher goals and greater accomplishments?

I would like to answer this profound question with one simple word: Laundry.

Laundry is never done. Whenever I go from room to room with arms filled with dirty clothes, I like to sing the theme song to the 1984 movie The NeverEnding Story. If that story were written by a woman, I am sure it would have been about laundry.

I’ve learned to do a little bit of laundry every day. I don’t even think about it anymore. When I wake up, I’ll notice that the hamper is getting full, so I’ll grab the clothes and start a load. That afternoon after I put the kids down for a nap, I’ll put the clothes into the dryer and forget about them. While the kids are playing before bed, I’ll take the load out, fold it and put it away. Never once was I anxious.

I used to let the laundry build up, but I noticed that I always became anxious. The lack of clean clothes would begin to affect my life, and my mind would send me distracting signals to “get to work.” Laundry would become a big deal, when, in reality, it is such a small part of my life. If I would simply give laundry a fraction of my attention every day, it would be manageable.

This concept is the same for God’s promises. God doesn’t want His promises to become anxiety builders in our lives. His promises are supposed to draw us closer in relationship with Him. The imbalance comes when we stop daily focusing on God, and we let our relationship with Him build up, unused in the hamper.

If we hungrily seek God everyday and align our lives in His will, He would ensure that we have just enough time every day to work on His promises. As we seek God, He will groom our lives of everything unnecessary, and we will have perfect amount of time to complete His will. Also, when we focus on God, He will fill us with joy and peace that will filter through every aspect of our lives, dispersing our anxiety, worry and procrastination.

The purpose of life is to glorify God. If we are not doing that in our daily life, we probably need to ask God for a healthy dose of perspective. I decided to give up on striving; instead, I’m keeping my eyes on God and allowing His grace to move me toward His best for me.

"Cease striving and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46.10 NASB).

Alisa Hope Wagner

Faith Imagined

Designing Writer

2010-08-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

Today is Manna Monday, which means a guest post from Rebecca Ward as your literary food. Enjoy!

As a professional interior designer, my job is to magically create perfect interior spaces for my clients. I take their dreams and turn it into a reality. But design is more to me than just a job. It is my passion. And because of my love for it, I have to share it with others.

One of my outlets for doing this is through my design blog, Design R. Over time, I have discovered that I am no longer just an interior designer, but an author. I publish my writings about my passion in a public format so others want to read it. But, I didn’t fully come to this “writer” realization by myself. I thank Holly Becker of the blog Decor8 and the blogging class I took called Blogging Your Way (a wonderful course for bloggers from any genre). She is a perfect example of a blogger-turned-published-writer. Through this combination of her extremely popular design blog and writing, she writes for many magazines and has now been asked to publish a book. Obviously, the writing and design work well together.

Design blogs are highly visual and often littered with tasty photos of luxe interiors and fun decorator items. But it’s what is in between those photos -- the real substance -- that brings the readers back. As a reader of other blogs, I find the rhetoric critical for linking the subject to my interest.

Most of my blog posts are based on items I see, places I go, vendors I use and emails I get. How boring would it be if every posting went as follows:

“Here are some nice throw pillows ... " (http://www.pillowsandpillows.com/)

…and that’s it. It’s cold and impersonal and the only thing my reader gets from it is my taste in pillows. And besides, it’s just a throw pillow. Who cares?

What if instead I said this along with these pillow pictures:

“Throw pillows may be the most pivotal item in your room. As a decorator item, they can play a key role in tying together accent colors in the room. Their size and cost allows them to be changed with the seasons, occasions and mood. But they are so much more than accessories and so much more supportive than providing comfort when sitting against a stiff-backed sofa.

How many times do you see people holding throw pillows on their lap while relating an emotional story, grasping tight, punching or crying into it as the narrative progresses? Throw pillows can become fast friends."

With interior design writing, I draw an emotional connection for my reader with an easily dismissed accessory. Additionally, I ask a personal question of my reader that may lead them to comment with their own story, or at the least, reflect on the role throw pillows have played in their life.

Design bloggers need to remember they are so much more than designers: they are writers.

When we “sell” our design to our client, we build a story around it so that the client can see himself in this future space and become emotionally attached to it before it becomes a reality. Description and engaging the client in our design, is key to our success.

When presenting to my client, instead of saying,

“This is the sofa I chose for you. This is the fabric and this is where it goes. Do you like it?”

I would say something more like this,

“Now look at this sofa. Notice how the style of the legs tie in the coffee table you love. The fabric is a strong and durable ultra-suede that you won’t have to worry about your children being on it. I made sure the color is a wonderful neutral tan. Since you mentioned you like to host seasonal parties throughout the year, you will easily be able to change the colors and styles with each event by incorporating throw pillows. I made sure the this seat is 3” deeper than your current sofa so you can stretch out and take a nap comfortably when you watch golf on Sundays. The frame of this sofa is high quality, so durable that it could easily outlive you.”

My client is much more likely to buy the sofa after they picture themselves living with it. The use of these descriptive scenarios are powerful tools for every designer and something design bloggers need to make sure they are using in their writing.

Though a slightly foreign medium for designers, writing is just another outlet to release our need to express creativity. I encourage every blogger in every genre of “blog-dom” to consider themselves a writer first and foremost.

Rebecca Ward

Rebecca Ward Design

Hello, My Name is ...

2010-08-21T11:47:00.000-07:00

Right about the time when I think things will stay the same, they change. Which is a good notion, I suppose. Without change, where's the progress? This was essentially Walt Disney's Motto "... keep moving forward ...," and look at the empire he created?

Sometimes, in order for great things to happen, change is necessary. But we have to keep looking ahead, and actually implement change, if we expect an empire of our own (figuratively speaking, of course).

So here's the deal: I'm changing the name of my blog to the title I should've had months ago, Writer's Manna. I woke up to this title, one moring, after having written something with those words, and am being forced by my one-tracked and often stubborn mind to make it my blog's name. And I hope, this is a better change.

There you go. A new title, for a new day. And I'm hoping to keep this one for a good, long time. Is there a lesson in it for all of us? Embrace change -- good change -- and watch amazing things happen. At least, that's what I'm telling myself.

-Heather

Guest Blogging: Is it for you?

2010-08-18T19:59:00.000-07:00

Hey, writers out there, I have a question for you:

Have you ever been a guest blogger?

This is where you write an article or essay for someone else's blog, so the focus is off of your own site and onto someone's else. The article can be anything, or everything. But the point is that the writing is to benefit not just your writing platform, but theirs while simultaneously expanding your experience.

I'm sure you're asking: How is this beneficial?
Well, not only is it a chance for you to write, but it allows your writing to extend to more circles, ones most likely directly related to your line of work. This means potentially new contacts, resources, friends and knowledge for you and your host. It's a win for you (since more people will see your writing), and it's a win for the host because they gain an educational or insightful article/ blog with a unique voice ... one other than their own.

I also hear you asking: Can you give me an example?
I have a friend, Alisa Hope Wagner, who wrote a great guest blog for Michael Hyatt, the CEO of the world's largest Christian book publishers, Thomas Nelson Publisher. His blog is great. Her article was great. And together, it was a perfect combination. Read it: right here. It's not only eye-opening (thanks Alisa) but a perfect reason as to why you can --and should -- be a guest blogger. You never know who you can write for, or what it will do for you, if you don't try.

Having said that, let me now say that I would love to host a guest writer/blog by any author, agent or editor. It just needs to have something -- anything-- to do with the love of writing and/or furthering the education for us literary people. This can include book reviews, funny spelling/writing errors, etc. You name it: it could quite possibly go up here. Contact me. I'll post one every two weeks ... and more frequently, as they come in.

Oh, and did I mention that I was a guest blogger today? You can see for yourself by visiting the lovely website of Jessie Mac. The article is called "Do You Want to Write? Then Lie (to Yourself). It was fun for me, and hopefully not only helpful for her, but beneficial to everyone who read it.

-Heather

Write On

2010-08-13T14:00:00.000-07:00

I can't even begin to tell you how much I learned at Writeoncon.com

What is Writeoncon? Just the best three days of interviews of agents, authors and editors from all over the country for those who live, eat and breathe reading or writing children's, middle-grade, or young adult literature. Writeoncon was the conglomeration of the some of the best knowledge, from some of the best people in the industry and all within the touch of the keyboard.

Though my head is overloaded, swirling from all the information I tried to cram in there, I'm happy to tell you that I took notes. This way, I have access to what I learned right in front of me. And if that's not good enough, hey, it's online! I can go back, listen or read again, and get even more fuel for my fire.

What did I learn, you ask? What didn't I learn, is a more likely question. Writing is really an art form. And the more you study it, the better you become.

Well, that is the supposed theory anyway.

I think the real truth to that statement is the more you study and apply what you learn, the better writer you become. How can you not? And let me tell you, I learned a ton.

My husband is still glaring at me for hogging the computer, focusing all my love and affection toward the gracious people at Writeoncon, and for talking non-stop about how much I learned. But come on now ... Writeoncon was the con of all cons. Really. This isn't to say that cons like Comic-con, aren't great. I suppose they are. My sister (Rebecca Ward, a.k.a. interior designer extrodinaire) was just at Comic-con down in San Diego a few weeks ago. But did she learn about awesome things like how to create memorable characterization by Mandy Hubbard? Did she learn about plot and pacing by Weronika Janczuk? Or what about the important aspect of the ever-insane, but very important, revision process by Cynthea Liu?

Okay, so the cons are completely incomparable. But, I can still think mine was better.

If you are interested in this amazing event, don't worry -- you too can check out Writeoncon after the whole event has happened. What? I know, that's like being able to travel back in time.

Oh, and did I mention that this is FREE?

That right there folks is proof to me, that this con beats them all.

Thank you Writeoncon.

Need a good laugh?

2010-08-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

This picture was the most randomly, funny picture I've ever taken ... and Hallmark kinda liked it too!

Check out Hallmark's website to not only view the card, but buy one! Feeling a little down?

Ha, ha well I think this picture will help. My winning card!

*Big thank you to my sister's legs, my cousin's laugh, and my aunt's perfect body-language.*

Summer is Winding Down, Already?

2010-08-06T14:12:00.000-07:00

So, I remember writing a blog not that long ago, about how I was stressing over what to do this summer. And how I absolutely needed to get a list going to make sure I kept busy with the boys.

Well, proof that I can't live without lists (Jen, I know, I know) and that lists work, I've been busier than I ever intended. Minus the hiking trip to Tahoe (happening next weekend) and the "Forest Buffet" at Harrah's (also next weekend), the list is finished! Check marked, over with and done. Did I mention that both of them grew about an inch or more these past three months? And that wasn't even on the list. You see how busy we have been?

In ten days, my boys --both of them-- go back to school -my youngest starting preschool for the first time. (FYI: there may be forthcoming a huge blog --with copious amounts of tears shed over my keyboard-- with that one.)

Summer may not be officially over, but I'm at a loss for words at how quickly it went by. Guess that was sort of the whole point behind the list now, wasn't it? Well, for the remaining weeks we do have, may your watermelon be sweet, your slip 'n slides slippery, and your days fun in the glorious sun.

The American Way--Baseball

2010-07-31T14:13:00.000-07:00

Ball games are pretty darn fun. Really. You even get to eat garbage and not feel guilty about it. Or at least, I don't. Because if you're anything like me, my justification is that this "garbage" is few and far between. What's a hot dog or two every year, right? The Rivercats, triple A team for Sacramento, played the Colorado Springs Sky Sox last night. Pretty sure we won. But then, maybe I'm not so sure. We left during the seventh inning stretch.

The whole people factor, or people watching, is fun too. That's about as good as the game itself. People, from every walk of life, all congregate to one place, on one particular night, to watch one particular game. And we're all happy about it.

While sitting in my seat, next to my sister and husband --and behind two rows of Japanese exhange students who were having the time of their life at this truly American past time-- it suddenly occurred to me why, despite the tremendous lag in the general game of baseball, despite why it takes nine (or more) innings to complete a game, and not to mention the complete and utter joy behind a foul or fly ball -despite its irrelevannce to the scoring -- it is so great. It brings everyone together for a single cause. And that is has to do with something we Americans like to claim as our own sport, is even better. Though baseball is slow, and not my most favorite thing to watch, I do love that we're united over a patriotic event.

This game, and all of us there, is really about truth, justice and the American way. And because of that alone, I plan on going to more games so I can not only feel patriotic, but be patriotic. Understanding that I was part of something truly American, made me happy. I may be a work in progress, but learning how to be one with my fellow man (whether I like him or not) is remakably fun when its within the context of baseball.

Feeling the need to be patriotic? Have you shown your pride for the red, white and blue lately? Get to a Rivercats game and revel in the fun. http://tinyurl.com/268qtx3
Let's go Rivercats! Here's to patriotic progress and the American way.

Ekphrastic Traveling

2010-06-20T12:32:00.000-07:00

While I haven't posted my works in the past, I want to post this poem- written because of a simple (but gorgeous) photo my cousin took. Visit his work:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/jc_iverson

Traveling via a photo

The propeller metal shines,
though for me,
it is only paper;
it shines at me like a
nickel that has lost its way
from a pocket or purse; valuable, useful.
And I feel like a bird that
has to pick it up for its nest.

Though the black and white
etch their thoughts of movement,
(perhaps a trip to the ends of the earth,
or a jaunt down the road)
the feelings of the passenger
must be like those of Earheart
or Lindbergh or even the Wrights:
trusting.

The contraption is beautiful
and bright, made by those
whose brains are beyond the mass
of a million minds.

-HJS

It all Starts with a Mohawk

2010-06-02T12:04:00.000-07:00

School's out and I'm officially stressed. It sounds kind of backwards, doesn't it? It isn't because of anything specifically really - only that my two boys are with me constantly. And me, wanting to be a good mom, doesn't want to hear the infamous words, "I'm bored." So I'm making a huge list of things to do over the summer.

I think I'm stressed because I want my kids to actually have fun doing the things I think they'll think as fun. Does that make sense? Anyway, we did do something kind of fun: Mohawks, well it really was buzz cuts and a mohawk for the oldest. The youngest didn't like it so much, so we shaved the "hawk" off. They love it. I kind of do too.

Until next time, you'll know what I'm doing- making a list, and checking it twice.
-HJS

My Life in Swords

2010-02-26T16:37:00.000-08:00

Yes,wonderful Aunt Jen brought home brilliantlly-lit swords from Disneyland.

The luscious colors, the bright glow-the boys were all atwitter.

Again, just proof that my boys spend more time sword-fighting than anything else.

And proof that I spend more time enjoying them and taking their picture than anything else.

Bec, this blog's for you. ;)

Mom's Duty

2010-02-21T16:22:00.000-08:00

I had to add this link because I am a mom, and I get to post things like this... especially since my entry won a contest few months ago.

http://www.heinzketchup.com/WholesomeMemoriesGallery.aspx

My little guy is on the far right, up a couple from the bottom.

So cute. Okay, all better.

Guess I better go feed him now.

-HJS

My Brain is in Napa

2010-02-08T14:07:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since my last posting. Maybe because I'm way too busy.
But then, who isn't?

Even if my blogs have been infrequent, my writing hasn't. Although, while a quick jaunt to Napa Valley for a spa vacation with my sisters and mom doesn't count for actual writing this last weekend, I did get a few inspirations while a caky-clay mud was applied to my skin and then a facial --full with smells that would make even a flower garden want facials of their own--that piqued
my subconscious.

I'm home now, and coming back from vacation is never a good time to jump into the old. And yet, is there any other way? One has to pick up the old routine, get into the swing of things in order to be what you were (and hopefully productive) before vacation made you a limp
rag.

Until next time.

First Post

2009-08-06T09:24:00.000-07:00

I told myself I wouldn't do this... that I didn't have the time, or the inclination, or even the will power. And here I am. I have entered the wide world of bloggers.

And it is very awesome.

Now, for actual susbtance. Hmmm.

-H