I've been BICHOK for several days to get ready for the Golden Heart contest run by the Romance Writers of America. I have no idea how any of my entries will do--that's luck of the draw with judging. Not every entry finals but that doesn't mean the entry wasn't excellent. The entries that do final deserve to be there, but this contest is as much a golden lottery to me as a real lottery. So many elements have to be in place. I almost finaled last year, but the statistics weighed against me. This year I stacked the deck with 4 and I hope one might make it through the golden gauntlet. I'll write more about that later--in my letter to all the judges--but I'm happy to say that I am pleased with my growth as a writer and the entries. They're solid contenders and have done well in the past.
Moving on--I took a mini break from ALL writing for a few days. I hung out with a friend and went to the Huntsville Museum of Art. It was lovely. I had a great lunch, viewed some amazing exhibits, and deepened my relationship with a new friend. I also went to the state theater competition to watch my daughter's school drama team perform their one act play--so funny-- and they placed BEST IN SHOW and are going to the regional competition in March 2012 in Chattanooga. I'm looking forward to that trip.
So now I'm sort of back in the chair. I have a few stories to polish, one to really polish, and more to do during the month of December. I am not going to push as hard and work as many hours as I usually do, but I am going to work. At least 100 words a day on the weekends and 2-3 hours of writing during the week.
Meanwhile, I promised to air some dirty laundry on today's blog. Here we go:
1. I am nice to everyone I meet, but I don't like everyone I'm nice to. I've just learned to be nice and keep my opinion private and my attitude in public squeaky clean.
2. Sometimes I want to throw in the towel *cliche alert* and just be a mom, a wife, a friend, a sister. I hate that I am working for quarters and I hate that I am always waiting for someone to determine my fate. It's tough. Really tough. But I don't give up because my stubborn side is stronger than my impatient side. So I'm stubborn.
3. The difference between me and a published author is one phone call or email. I put in the same amount of time and the same effort. I think I am a decent writer and if I had an editor to back me, I'd become a better writer overnight. I respond well to direction. I know plenty of published authors who remember being on my side of the fence and who don't think they're better than me as a person because one day the phone rang and they got a contract. I know of a few, a minority, who do think they can treat me differently because they're published and I'm not. And they are not nice about it at all. Of course, I'm nice to everyone I meet. Even them. *evil grin* Any rate, I am a career writer, not a hobbyist. I take this writing gig very seriously. Ask my friends who want to see me or talk to me when I am in full writing mode. They miss me.
4. I am sad that my husband is out of town for 3 weeks during the holiday season. However, I am not sad that I don't have to cook meals for him. I am living on weight watchers frozen meals for lunch and dinner unless I go out with a friend. I am on a diet. This is good. I lost a pound and a half since he's been gone. Yay!
5. I like my wine. I don't limit myself to one chaste glass or two if I'm feeling wild. I drink however much I please whenever I like after a certain time and if I am in a nice restaurant for lunch I'll *gasp* order a glass of wine to go with my meal. I believe it is the only vice I have left to dump and I'm not dumping it.
6. Being alone has its benefits.
7. I know a lot of people but I don't have many close friends. The friends I have are all super high quality people.
8. I don't like to waste my time with idle chit chat unless I'm with people I don't really know very well. Then I am the Queen of Idle Chit Chat.
9. I am very loyal but if someone betrays me I will sever the relationship. I don't hold grudges, but I won't let anyone stomp all over me or use my vulnerability against me.
10. I am a strong person who has had to fight hard for every thing she's gotten in life, but I don't believe I deserve what I have received. I believe I got lucky and that my God is very good to me. And deep down I am just as scared and vulnerable as the person sitting next to me.
So that's my dirty laundry. What's yours?
Showing posts with label writers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label writers. Show all posts
Monday, December 5, 2011
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Rest Stops, Breaks and Detours
Last weekend I was in Atlanta for the Moonlight and Magnolias Conference hosted by the GRWA. After a whirlwind of learning, driving, laughing, dancing, and plotting I am ready to write my next book. But before I begin writing in earnest, I am giving myself a well-deserved rest stop.
Why? My brain needs some serious R&R. I love to write. I love the business of writing (okay, I confess I am not a fan of query letters and synopsis writing but I do love networking and pitching). I love planning to write. I love talking about writing.
But I also love playing.
Sure I have work to do. I have two contest entries to prepare for the Golden Heart Contest run by the Romance Writers of America. I have two requests to pull together for two different manuscripts. I have queries to send and plotting to ponder. I have a book I am itchy to write.
But I have to play.
Why? I guess I naturally fall into this rhythm because, well, it is FALL. Autumn is my all time favorite season. There are less bugs, the weather is perfect, and the colors are gorgeous. In Northern VA, I'd slow down a bit in September. School always started right after Labor Day, and I'd use that time to catch up with my friends, go visit wineries and ease my way into a new project. But now I live in Alabama and school starts in the middle of August, September isn't that autumnal, and I'm gearing up for conferences and workshops.
My new favorite month to slow down in the south is October. The weather is perfect. The skies are blue, the air is crisp but not too cool, and the trees are beginning to transform into gold, orange and red. Our school district has an annual fall break that begins today (unfortunately we lost our full five days but I digress). So travel is always on the horizon during this time. This year we're traveling to Knoxville, Tennessee to see our friends and celebrate a very good friend's wedding to a great guy.
So there is a natural stop in the writing schedule. Not a complete stop, but a mini break. I am still writing every day, but I've lowered my requirements. I've registered for the Golden Heart, followed up on administration for my online workshop coordination duties (stay tuned for the next class announcement), talked to my CPs, taken down all my visual aids for the last manuscript, planned my submission strategy, read through plotting information, transcribed notes from my Michael Hauge workshop (so I can actually read my scribbles in the future), and I have written a minimum of 100 words a day (usually more) as I brainstorm my next story.
I've also had lunch with a friend, played with my scrapbooking materials to make my own little "tip" jar for meeting my daily goals (got this idea from the Kelly Stone workshop--pay myself a quarter for every goal reached). I needed to play with paper. Really really needed to do something creative that had a specific end result. I love my little tip jar so much that I want to make one for all my writing friends. I've wandered over to a neighbor's house just to chat. I've planned some other social events for later in the month (one trip I'm planning is to go to a cool winery about an hour and half north of here near Nashville, Tennessee--I'll take pictures). I've been giving myself permission to slow down, relax a bit, and enjoy this month to the fullest.
November will be here soon enough. And then it'll get darker, colder, and yuckier. If it weren't for Christmas, I'd be toast during the winter. Winter is NOT my favorite season. Snow, ice, sleet, dipping temperatures, dark days, cloudy days and barren landscapes are not for me.
But give me the autumn months. The fresh weather, the golden colors, the hint of excitement in the air, the new foods and decorations, and the gathering of resources as we prepare for that long, cold period of hibernation.
Squirrels gather nuts, bears prepare to sleep away the upcoming months and carb load, and me? Well, I soak in as much sun as I can, clear out the cobwebs and junk, and load up on fun while I begin threading the pieces of my story together. When the first cold days of winter set in, I'll have my quilt pieces ready to work and my heart full of sunshine so I can pour my stored energy into my story. I'll be back in high gear come November 1.
For some writers, November is the NaMo month. For others it is the last push before they send out their Golden Heart entries, and for others it is merely a continuation of what they have already been doing. For me? Last year I was a Golden Heart entry writer till the nth hour. Two years ago? Same thing. This year? No. I have my entries ready to roll out the door by October 31. Then I have a month of great learning and writing planned. One where I plan to build on the lessons I learned from Michael Hauge.
This winter I'll be focused on getting another book out the door. Another story written. Kayla and Drake's story has called to me. I have gutted an old book and begun laying down the groundwork for a better story. A different story. This isn't even a revision. This is a new start. I'm excited about the future for my characters. I'm curious about where they will lead me. They've been patient. They've waited for me to work out the kinks in the fourth manuscript, but now I am ready to meet them and hear their story so I can write it for them.
How do you gear up for the winter? Do you have a favorite season? And how do you give yourself a break?
Why? My brain needs some serious R&R. I love to write. I love the business of writing (okay, I confess I am not a fan of query letters and synopsis writing but I do love networking and pitching). I love planning to write. I love talking about writing.
But I also love playing.
Sure I have work to do. I have two contest entries to prepare for the Golden Heart Contest run by the Romance Writers of America. I have two requests to pull together for two different manuscripts. I have queries to send and plotting to ponder. I have a book I am itchy to write.
But I have to play.
Why? I guess I naturally fall into this rhythm because, well, it is FALL. Autumn is my all time favorite season. There are less bugs, the weather is perfect, and the colors are gorgeous. In Northern VA, I'd slow down a bit in September. School always started right after Labor Day, and I'd use that time to catch up with my friends, go visit wineries and ease my way into a new project. But now I live in Alabama and school starts in the middle of August, September isn't that autumnal, and I'm gearing up for conferences and workshops.
My new favorite month to slow down in the south is October. The weather is perfect. The skies are blue, the air is crisp but not too cool, and the trees are beginning to transform into gold, orange and red. Our school district has an annual fall break that begins today (unfortunately we lost our full five days but I digress). So travel is always on the horizon during this time. This year we're traveling to Knoxville, Tennessee to see our friends and celebrate a very good friend's wedding to a great guy.
So there is a natural stop in the writing schedule. Not a complete stop, but a mini break. I am still writing every day, but I've lowered my requirements. I've registered for the Golden Heart, followed up on administration for my online workshop coordination duties (stay tuned for the next class announcement), talked to my CPs, taken down all my visual aids for the last manuscript, planned my submission strategy, read through plotting information, transcribed notes from my Michael Hauge workshop (so I can actually read my scribbles in the future), and I have written a minimum of 100 words a day (usually more) as I brainstorm my next story.
I've also had lunch with a friend, played with my scrapbooking materials to make my own little "tip" jar for meeting my daily goals (got this idea from the Kelly Stone workshop--pay myself a quarter for every goal reached). I needed to play with paper. Really really needed to do something creative that had a specific end result. I love my little tip jar so much that I want to make one for all my writing friends. I've wandered over to a neighbor's house just to chat. I've planned some other social events for later in the month (one trip I'm planning is to go to a cool winery about an hour and half north of here near Nashville, Tennessee--I'll take pictures). I've been giving myself permission to slow down, relax a bit, and enjoy this month to the fullest.
November will be here soon enough. And then it'll get darker, colder, and yuckier. If it weren't for Christmas, I'd be toast during the winter. Winter is NOT my favorite season. Snow, ice, sleet, dipping temperatures, dark days, cloudy days and barren landscapes are not for me.
But give me the autumn months. The fresh weather, the golden colors, the hint of excitement in the air, the new foods and decorations, and the gathering of resources as we prepare for that long, cold period of hibernation.
Squirrels gather nuts, bears prepare to sleep away the upcoming months and carb load, and me? Well, I soak in as much sun as I can, clear out the cobwebs and junk, and load up on fun while I begin threading the pieces of my story together. When the first cold days of winter set in, I'll have my quilt pieces ready to work and my heart full of sunshine so I can pour my stored energy into my story. I'll be back in high gear come November 1.
For some writers, November is the NaMo month. For others it is the last push before they send out their Golden Heart entries, and for others it is merely a continuation of what they have already been doing. For me? Last year I was a Golden Heart entry writer till the nth hour. Two years ago? Same thing. This year? No. I have my entries ready to roll out the door by October 31. Then I have a month of great learning and writing planned. One where I plan to build on the lessons I learned from Michael Hauge.
This winter I'll be focused on getting another book out the door. Another story written. Kayla and Drake's story has called to me. I have gutted an old book and begun laying down the groundwork for a better story. A different story. This isn't even a revision. This is a new start. I'm excited about the future for my characters. I'm curious about where they will lead me. They've been patient. They've waited for me to work out the kinks in the fourth manuscript, but now I am ready to meet them and hear their story so I can write it for them.
How do you gear up for the winter? Do you have a favorite season? And how do you give yourself a break?
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Perseverance or an Obsessive Stubborn Refusal to Give Up?
I've been reading a lot of blogs about how the writer's life. How do we sit in the chair, often without pay, to write these stories? Why do we sit in the chair at all? And how does one know if a writer, new and unpublished, will become successful?
Is it perseverance or an obsessive stubborn refusal to give up on one's dream? Or is a combination of both qualities along with a measure of self-delusion about the difficulty in achieving the ultimate dream of publication?
Perseverance defined:
Noun: steadfastness in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success: her perseverance with the technique illustrates her singlemindedness.
"Perseverance with the technique" stands out for me.
Read it again. It says, try try try again BUT with the technique.
If we sit in a chair and write every day, meeting our word count goals and more, then yes, we're persevering. And we often do it without affirmation or pay. Even harder to persevere if we don't have a paycheck or an editor breathing down our necks for our works.
I believe writing and making writing goals is not enough. I believe that we need to learn, we need to persevere with our technique. We are never finished with the process of learning, regardless of where we are on our writing journey.
So persevere with your technique. Accept constructive feedback, take courses about writing, ask for help, read books in your genre, attend workshops, enter contests, find a critique partner you trust (I've been super lucky in that regard), and then when you say, "Never Give Up, Never Surrender," you're saying it as you steadfastly work toward refining your technique.
What are you doing to achieve your goal? How are you accepting the changes you need to make as a writer so you can step inside the hallowed halls of publication? Don't just write. Write with purpose, with a willingness to grow and change. And as you struggle with the difficult tasks you face as a writer, try to remember why you embarked on this journey.
Rediscover daily the JOY you have as a writer. The sheer amazing wonderful way your heart sings when you put words onto paper. Then become a master, an empress, of your joy and harness it with knowledge and technique.
Above all--Persevere with your technique.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Southern Romance Writers Give Back
Despite being very busy individuals, many of the Heart of Dixie members and PUBLISHED authors are doing something extra special this year. They are working alongside the Huntsville/Madison Public libraries to bring writing programs and lessons to the public FOR FREE! Now let me tell you, these ladies are already givers. Most of them are members of our local Chapter and are actively involved in the board. In addition to writing, they have families to look after and in some cases, other jobs! Yet they are taking time out of their schedules to share their experiences as writers with people who might aspire to one day become novelists. Teens and adults will benefit from this gift. So check out the links below, go visit my writing friends' websites, and if you live close to Madison or Huntsville, pop into one of the libraries and learn more about the crazy, zany world of writing!
Heart of Dixie and Huntsville Public Libraries
Summer 2010
MAY 16/2PM: ―Publishing 101with Kimberly Lang (Madison Branch)
If you’re confused, overwhelmed, or simply mystified about what it takes to get your book from
your desk onto a bookstore shelf, then this workshop has the answers you need. Learn the basics
of the business, including publishing models, what agents actually do, and how to protect your-
self from scam artists.
June 3/4PM―How I Became a Famous Teen Romance Novelist‖ with Tricia Mills (Madison
Branch)
Do you want to see your imagination in print? Is "novelist" your top career choice? Tricia
Mills describes what it takes to get it done and issues her "Summer Writing Challenge" just for
teens.
June 18/10AM – ―Creating Compelling Characters‖ with Rhonda Nelson and Kimberly Lang
(Bailey Cove Branch)
The best plot in the world will fall flat without characters your readers love (or love to hate).
Learn how to create realistic, three-dimensional characters your readers will never forget.
June 19/10AM – ―Conflict and Emotion: The Heart of the Story‖ with Linda Winstead Jones
(Bailey Cove Branch)
What drives your story? What drives your characters? Go beyond plot to the real heart of your
story.
June 25/10AM – ―Plotting and Pacing Your Novel‖ with Lynn Raye Harris (Bailey Cove
Branch)
How do you decide what happens in your novel? Do you have enough plot to carry you to the
end? Is there too much going on? How do you keep the action going and your readers turning
pages? Learn these essential aspects of good fiction.
June 26/10AM - "Fundamentals of Good Fiction" with Kira Sinclair. (Bailey Cove Branch)
Do you understand POV? What about Show, Don't Tell? Do you know what a dialog tag is and
how to use it? Discuss these and other essential building blocks of your novel.
August 3/4PM: Teens Strut the Write Stuff (Madison Branch)
Meet back up with Tricia Mills and the gang to share your experience and successes with the
"Summer Writing Challenge." Get feedback from the group and some pointers from a profes-
sional!
(Madison Branch)
These prolific and bestselling authors have written over a hundred romance novels covering mul-
tiple genres and subgenres, including suspense, historical, comedy, mystery, and more. Join
them for an informal discussion of the passion they all share: books!
Friday, May 7, 2010
The National Conference, RWA & Romance Writers Rock
Last week Nashville, TN and other parts of Middle Tennessee were deluged with rains that caused the rivers and creek beds to swell with water. The water rose above the levy and flooded much of downtown Nashville and one of my favorite spots, the Opryland Hotel area. Along with Opryland Hotel, the area hosts Opryland Mills Shopping Outlet, the Grand Ole Opry and more. This is a Star Jewel in the area that draws thousands of people to it on a regular basis. Watching the area become flooded and seeing the devastation to the Opryland Hotel was heartbreaking.
I lived in Tennessee for 14 years. My daughter was born in Knoxville, TN. And I have dear friends who moved to Nashville 14 years ago when my daughter was a year old. I've sipped chardonnay in the Opryland Hotel, enjoyed lunch at one of its many fine restaurants, and I've attended concerts, shows and my friend's son's graduation last year at the Grand Old Opry. So I was super excited when I learned the National Conference would be held in Nashville.
But Mother Nature had a different plan forcing our RWA Board to look for another venue for our National Conference. Yet, in all the scrambling to save our "party," the RWA Board and the Romance Writers of America membership also focused on how to help Nashville overcome this flooding and devastation. RWA has posted links to help with Flood Relief. Other members are holding auctions on their blog sites to help raise funds for Nashville, and the RWA is donating part of the money they'll receive for the Literacy Book signing to the Nashville area despite having to relocate to Orlando for the conference.
I love my organization. Not only are they capable and smart. They are caring and giving. Being a member of the RWA has enriched my life as a writer and as a human being. We come together in small ways to help and in large ways to help as well.
So here's a big wave from Alabama to my RWA Board and the writers who belong to RWA. You all rock!
Want to help? Here are some blog sites and places you can go to to participate:
Do the Write Thing
Flood Relief
Red Cross
Do the Write Thing
I lived in Tennessee for 14 years. My daughter was born in Knoxville, TN. And I have dear friends who moved to Nashville 14 years ago when my daughter was a year old. I've sipped chardonnay in the Opryland Hotel, enjoyed lunch at one of its many fine restaurants, and I've attended concerts, shows and my friend's son's graduation last year at the Grand Old Opry. So I was super excited when I learned the National Conference would be held in Nashville.
But Mother Nature had a different plan forcing our RWA Board to look for another venue for our National Conference. Yet, in all the scrambling to save our "party," the RWA Board and the Romance Writers of America membership also focused on how to help Nashville overcome this flooding and devastation. RWA has posted links to help with Flood Relief. Other members are holding auctions on their blog sites to help raise funds for Nashville, and the RWA is donating part of the money they'll receive for the Literacy Book signing to the Nashville area despite having to relocate to Orlando for the conference.
I love my organization. Not only are they capable and smart. They are caring and giving. Being a member of the RWA has enriched my life as a writer and as a human being. We come together in small ways to help and in large ways to help as well.
So here's a big wave from Alabama to my RWA Board and the writers who belong to RWA. You all rock!
Want to help? Here are some blog sites and places you can go to to participate:
Do the Write Thing
Flood Relief
Red Cross
Do the Write Thing
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Tweet, Tweet--Hi There, Staying in Touch--Ring, Ring
I'm in the middle of my current revision. Occasionally, I take a break and come up for air, but for the most part I'm keeping my fingers on the keyboard for one purpose only: writing.
But writing and focusing on the revision isn't easy when all my distractions, a large portion of them, are right here on my computer. If I get stuck or bored or angry about the scalpel job I have to do AGAIN, well all I have to do is click on Safari and go to to my bookmarks and voila! I have found my virtual world of friends.
I've got FaceBook and my blog. I follow blogs. I FB follow my friends. I dabble with a couple of non-writing forums (only to leave quickly because the other forums aren't nearly as wonderful and giving as my writing forums), and I recently added TWITTER to my repertoire of computer distractions.
Why? I don't have time. Oh, I do, but only if I don't write or clean or shop for groceries or tend to the family or (and yes, I am leaving out the commas on purpose) or or or.... but still I dabble.
I have a CP who does not use her computer for anything BUT writing.
Nora Roberts doesn't write a word she doesn't get paid for, but then as another CP said, NR doesn't need to network.
Do we? Do we really need to network?
I do. Writing is lonely. And nobody gets writers other than writers. But that's really the only reason I network. I'm not published and I don't have a brand. If I spend all my time wondering how to get my name out there, I won't get my writing done. And then my brand, whatever that might be, would be pointless because I'd have nothing to sell but my... oh yeah, nothing to try to sell.
I'll be honest, I miss the phone. I miss long chats on the telephone with my friends. There are a few I call regularly to this day and we all believe that talking, really talking, leads to less loneliness and isolation than all the Tweets, FB status comments and more.
But so many people don't have time to talk. And so many of my new friends are friends I've made in the virtual world. In essence, this crazy virtual world is my phone.
So call me on this blog, don't get too disheartened if, during revisions, my answering machine picks up instead, and when in doubt, try to tweet me on twitter. I'll try to find time to tweet back.
Follow me @ http://twitter.com/cjglover63
But writing and focusing on the revision isn't easy when all my distractions, a large portion of them, are right here on my computer. If I get stuck or bored or angry about the scalpel job I have to do AGAIN, well all I have to do is click on Safari and go to to my bookmarks and voila! I have found my virtual world of friends.
I've got FaceBook and my blog. I follow blogs. I FB follow my friends. I dabble with a couple of non-writing forums (only to leave quickly because the other forums aren't nearly as wonderful and giving as my writing forums), and I recently added TWITTER to my repertoire of computer distractions.
Why? I don't have time. Oh, I do, but only if I don't write or clean or shop for groceries or tend to the family or (and yes, I am leaving out the commas on purpose) or or or.... but still I dabble.
I have a CP who does not use her computer for anything BUT writing.
Nora Roberts doesn't write a word she doesn't get paid for, but then as another CP said, NR doesn't need to network.
Do we? Do we really need to network?
I do. Writing is lonely. And nobody gets writers other than writers. But that's really the only reason I network. I'm not published and I don't have a brand. If I spend all my time wondering how to get my name out there, I won't get my writing done. And then my brand, whatever that might be, would be pointless because I'd have nothing to sell but my... oh yeah, nothing to try to sell.
I'll be honest, I miss the phone. I miss long chats on the telephone with my friends. There are a few I call regularly to this day and we all believe that talking, really talking, leads to less loneliness and isolation than all the Tweets, FB status comments and more.
But so many people don't have time to talk. And so many of my new friends are friends I've made in the virtual world. In essence, this crazy virtual world is my phone.
So call me on this blog, don't get too disheartened if, during revisions, my answering machine picks up instead, and when in doubt, try to tweet me on twitter. I'll try to find time to tweet back.
Follow me @ http://twitter.com/cjglover63
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
K.I.S.S. & Tell
Revision is an interesting process. I've discovered that when it comes to the PLOT revision, reading a craft book alongside the writing work helps me to generate new ideas and fix my MS's holes. Sometimes I take a course online during this time. Sometimes I just read and learn.
While revising, I am always on the phone or pinging emails to my CPs. They are all working on their WIPs and going through the same process. All of our voices bring new thoughts and solutions to the table. All of us find different ways to get to the heart of the matter.
So where is the KISS?
Well, for me it's in the phrase: KEEP IT SIMPLE SILLY. The more I learn, the more I realize that writing does boil down to basics. There are some amazing methods to approach writing, but they all derive from similar roots. I can call a plot point a twist point, a pivotal plot point, a false victory, a turning point... a whatever... But bottom line: the idea is the same. I have to have sections in my book that bring about changes internally and externally to my main characters and all of these changes must deepen the sympathy my future readers have for my characters.
Goals? Motivations? Conflicts? Internal and external? They all come from some deep well within ourselves. If we don't mine our own hearts and experiences, we aren't bringing an honest revelation to the table, either. At times it takes some wonderful teacher to lead us to that discovery. Other times, it's an aha moment within our own brains that crystalizes the soul baring drive to write the story. Is our theme throughout our writing about betrayal, hope, lost souls finding home, overcoming injustice, saving people, truth and justice overcoming dishonesty? What? When we discover this, we are on a roll.
Sounds simple doesn't it?
But that's the part that's hard to tell. When does the writing shift from complex to simple? When does the book take on an amazing life of its own where the characters are really telling ME how to write their story? I think it happens all along as long as I don't force the issue. As soon as I try to fake it, I lose it.
I lose the essence of my people. I lose the essence of their story.
Revision opens up new pathways, new directions, new goals. Revision brings along interesting developments, unexpected characters and evocative emotions. Now the questions is: are you ready to expose them to the light?
While revising, I am always on the phone or pinging emails to my CPs. They are all working on their WIPs and going through the same process. All of our voices bring new thoughts and solutions to the table. All of us find different ways to get to the heart of the matter.
So where is the KISS?
Well, for me it's in the phrase: KEEP IT SIMPLE SILLY. The more I learn, the more I realize that writing does boil down to basics. There are some amazing methods to approach writing, but they all derive from similar roots. I can call a plot point a twist point, a pivotal plot point, a false victory, a turning point... a whatever... But bottom line: the idea is the same. I have to have sections in my book that bring about changes internally and externally to my main characters and all of these changes must deepen the sympathy my future readers have for my characters.
Goals? Motivations? Conflicts? Internal and external? They all come from some deep well within ourselves. If we don't mine our own hearts and experiences, we aren't bringing an honest revelation to the table, either. At times it takes some wonderful teacher to lead us to that discovery. Other times, it's an aha moment within our own brains that crystalizes the soul baring drive to write the story. Is our theme throughout our writing about betrayal, hope, lost souls finding home, overcoming injustice, saving people, truth and justice overcoming dishonesty? What? When we discover this, we are on a roll.
Sounds simple doesn't it?
But that's the part that's hard to tell. When does the writing shift from complex to simple? When does the book take on an amazing life of its own where the characters are really telling ME how to write their story? I think it happens all along as long as I don't force the issue. As soon as I try to fake it, I lose it.
I lose the essence of my people. I lose the essence of their story.
Revision opens up new pathways, new directions, new goals. Revision brings along interesting developments, unexpected characters and evocative emotions. Now the questions is: are you ready to expose them to the light?
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Party Time
Okay, it's official. Christmas is here. We're all ready to relax, put our hair up in a pony tail and open presents after we cook and prep. Today was the first day of the season for me. I got up, made 12 bags of reindeer food, and 8 cute mini-loaves of eggnog loaves. Yummy! Then I wrapped a present for the Heart of Dixie Christmas party and took a shower to attend the said party.
Yay! I got to spend time with all my fellow writer comrades and eat and open weird presents (tho' I think I do win the weirdest gag gift award--in fact I believe I forgot it at the host's house--no loss). After a perilous drive through some strange parts of town, a stop to buy ice and cokes (my lame contribution), I finally arrived at the host's house.
Yay! Party! We crammed a lot of food and fun into a house. Good times!
I didn't write today, but I got to be with writers and that's almost the same. More about this group later, I promise!! But not writing one day is not a problem. The goal is half an hour per day, but some days I write over an hour and other times only a half an hour. Over the course of the week, I manage to get my time in.
Now is the season to relax, regroup and enjoy our friends and family. Part of that means sharing recipes. Today's recipe comes from my best friend, Lori. I've known her for 35 plus years! That's saying a lot considering I'm only 32 (LOL). She is a great friend, keeper of all my secrets, and a fabulous cook (you'll see another one of her recipes here soon).
Lori's Eggnog Mini Loaves
2 1/4 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
2 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 cup eggnog
1/2 cup melted butter
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp rum extract (I couldn't find any so I used imitation and it was fine)
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. In another bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, eggnog, butter and extracts. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until moistened. Pour into three greased 5 3/4 by 3 inch by 2 inch loaf pans (I used eight smaller cute pans with neat Christmas imprints at the bottom--and they turned out great!--planning cupcakes next). Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes till a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing and putting on wire racks.
Yield's 3 loaves, or 8 mini mini loaves or... stay tuned for cupcakes.
Turned out super yummy! Can't wait to make more.
Do you have any recipes you enjoy? Tried and true? Any new ideas? Share!
Yay! I got to spend time with all my fellow writer comrades and eat and open weird presents (tho' I think I do win the weirdest gag gift award--in fact I believe I forgot it at the host's house--no loss). After a perilous drive through some strange parts of town, a stop to buy ice and cokes (my lame contribution), I finally arrived at the host's house.
Yay! Party! We crammed a lot of food and fun into a house. Good times!
I didn't write today, but I got to be with writers and that's almost the same. More about this group later, I promise!! But not writing one day is not a problem. The goal is half an hour per day, but some days I write over an hour and other times only a half an hour. Over the course of the week, I manage to get my time in.
Now is the season to relax, regroup and enjoy our friends and family. Part of that means sharing recipes. Today's recipe comes from my best friend, Lori. I've known her for 35 plus years! That's saying a lot considering I'm only 32 (LOL). She is a great friend, keeper of all my secrets, and a fabulous cook (you'll see another one of her recipes here soon).
Lori's Eggnog Mini Loaves
2 1/4 cups flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
2 eggs
1 cup sugar
1 cup eggnog
1/2 cup melted butter
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp rum extract (I couldn't find any so I used imitation and it was fine)
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon and nutmeg. In another bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, eggnog, butter and extracts. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until moistened. Pour into three greased 5 3/4 by 3 inch by 2 inch loaf pans (I used eight smaller cute pans with neat Christmas imprints at the bottom--and they turned out great!--planning cupcakes next). Bake at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes till a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing and putting on wire racks.
Yield's 3 loaves, or 8 mini mini loaves or... stay tuned for cupcakes.
Turned out super yummy! Can't wait to make more.
Do you have any recipes you enjoy? Tried and true? Any new ideas? Share!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Jingle Bell Juggling of Priorities
The week did start off with a not so nice start--never a good time to hear yucky news. But this is a part of life. We don't get to write happy endings in the real world. Perhaps that is why I like writing fiction--I get to be Supreme Ruler of my Mini Universe. And the good guys and gals always win in the end.
Sigh.
But despite ick news and the upcoming chaos, one thing must continue happening. Writing. I know, right?How can I write when I am worried? Well, worrying won't make the matters facing me about my FIL go away. They'll overtake and overshadow my life. I have zero control over those events.
I do have control over my response to those events. I do have control over what I do with my time now. And I do have control over my glorious obsession and pursuit of my lovely goal. Yesterday's news was a reminder to me: we only get one shot to live. If we are lucky enough to live in a situation where we are privileged to pursue higher goals like expressing ourselves creatively, then we are indeed blessed.
So--chin up and first things first. I called my darling FIL--he's in good spirits. We had a "man that was a crappy week for you talk" and discussed an upcoming visit before Christmas (on the road again). That's all I can do there--let him know we love him.
Second on the list, call my CP in AL and discuss our goals, the market, publishing, our writing direction and her quick thoughts about my first 29 pages (editing for MAGGIES and other contests). Then after far too long a talk for her as she had to get ready for a lunch (but oh it is wonderful to talk about writing), I started in on the current WIP. Organizing my next few scenes and chapters, clipping them together, slashing words, making notes about cuts and more. Now I have something to input into the computer tomorrow.
The goal for this month is "flexible writing." And that's all I can ask of myself. This isn't the time to go nuts and start a massive new project. Nope. It's about keeping the peeps in my head, tossing around ideas and working slowly toward the new year. Do I beat myself over the head if I don't manage to write at all? Nope? The goal is an hour a day. Some days might lead to more hours, others not any at all. But by January 1, I will be ahead of the game because I gave myself permission to follow my "a little is better than none at all" rule.
Try it. I learned how to write in a box when I went through a massive move over a year ago. I learned to take fifteen minutes here and there--I learned to stop to read ahead and edit hard copy. I learned to go back and input my changes and make notes about the story.
Sometimes when crazy happens, order can be imposed. Now I know the direction, tho' not all the scenes of this current WIP. I know I need to do some research, but it doesn't have to happen now. And best of all, I know I have renewed my focus for the upcoming year.
I'm excited about the new direction and about my mini list of goals that are building in my head. Oh, the fun I'll have creating my spreadsheet for 2010. Best of all, I get to reflect and review over all the accomplishments and goals attained in 2009. Wow, I can't wait.
This is why it is vital to keep going--when you can--during high seasons and times when life just isn't cooperating. You will slowly plod along and get through the muck and the fireworks. And you know, sometimes it is good to slow down and move the great conductor's rhythm. Surrender to the flow you are in--work with it--think of it like a rip tide. Don't fight it, float out with the pulling waters, and then ease back to shore.
And here's the best part, by writing even a little today, I managed to feel good about that goal. And I managed to feel no remorse about putting the valuable time into being a DIL, a mom shopping for Christmas, a wife comforting her husband, and a woman taking care of herself.
Sigh.
But despite ick news and the upcoming chaos, one thing must continue happening. Writing. I know, right?How can I write when I am worried? Well, worrying won't make the matters facing me about my FIL go away. They'll overtake and overshadow my life. I have zero control over those events.
I do have control over my response to those events. I do have control over what I do with my time now. And I do have control over my glorious obsession and pursuit of my lovely goal. Yesterday's news was a reminder to me: we only get one shot to live. If we are lucky enough to live in a situation where we are privileged to pursue higher goals like expressing ourselves creatively, then we are indeed blessed.
So--chin up and first things first. I called my darling FIL--he's in good spirits. We had a "man that was a crappy week for you talk" and discussed an upcoming visit before Christmas (on the road again). That's all I can do there--let him know we love him.
Second on the list, call my CP in AL and discuss our goals, the market, publishing, our writing direction and her quick thoughts about my first 29 pages (editing for MAGGIES and other contests). Then after far too long a talk for her as she had to get ready for a lunch (but oh it is wonderful to talk about writing), I started in on the current WIP. Organizing my next few scenes and chapters, clipping them together, slashing words, making notes about cuts and more. Now I have something to input into the computer tomorrow.
The goal for this month is "flexible writing." And that's all I can ask of myself. This isn't the time to go nuts and start a massive new project. Nope. It's about keeping the peeps in my head, tossing around ideas and working slowly toward the new year. Do I beat myself over the head if I don't manage to write at all? Nope? The goal is an hour a day. Some days might lead to more hours, others not any at all. But by January 1, I will be ahead of the game because I gave myself permission to follow my "a little is better than none at all" rule.
Try it. I learned how to write in a box when I went through a massive move over a year ago. I learned to take fifteen minutes here and there--I learned to stop to read ahead and edit hard copy. I learned to go back and input my changes and make notes about the story.
Sometimes when crazy happens, order can be imposed. Now I know the direction, tho' not all the scenes of this current WIP. I know I need to do some research, but it doesn't have to happen now. And best of all, I know I have renewed my focus for the upcoming year.
I'm excited about the new direction and about my mini list of goals that are building in my head. Oh, the fun I'll have creating my spreadsheet for 2010. Best of all, I get to reflect and review over all the accomplishments and goals attained in 2009. Wow, I can't wait.
This is why it is vital to keep going--when you can--during high seasons and times when life just isn't cooperating. You will slowly plod along and get through the muck and the fireworks. And you know, sometimes it is good to slow down and move the great conductor's rhythm. Surrender to the flow you are in--work with it--think of it like a rip tide. Don't fight it, float out with the pulling waters, and then ease back to shore.
And here's the best part, by writing even a little today, I managed to feel good about that goal. And I managed to feel no remorse about putting the valuable time into being a DIL, a mom shopping for Christmas, a wife comforting her husband, and a woman taking care of herself.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Idea Exchange
I am lucky: I have really wonderful writing comrades and chapter mates. I had a dilemma and I pinged all of them with my dilemma. They helped solidify my next step.
And I appreciate it all. And I am intensely aware of how blessed I am to know these women.
Writers are a strange lot. We are in a hole, typing away, and listening to fictional characters in our heads on a daily basis. We discuss ways to bring people together and rip them apart. We brainstorm ideas about how to make the stories in our heads marketable and how to make them work on the pages we spit out. We are emotional, cerebral, sane and insane. Our families get us, a bit, but our writing friends KNOW our struggles.
It is a lonely job, yet it is one filled with interesting companions along the way.
So cheers Ladies! I love you all for what you bring to the table of my life. The platter is full!!
And I appreciate it all. And I am intensely aware of how blessed I am to know these women.
Writers are a strange lot. We are in a hole, typing away, and listening to fictional characters in our heads on a daily basis. We discuss ways to bring people together and rip them apart. We brainstorm ideas about how to make the stories in our heads marketable and how to make them work on the pages we spit out. We are emotional, cerebral, sane and insane. Our families get us, a bit, but our writing friends KNOW our struggles.
It is a lonely job, yet it is one filled with interesting companions along the way.
So cheers Ladies! I love you all for what you bring to the table of my life. The platter is full!!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
RWA Conference Virgin--No More! Oh the Glory!
Well it's been ages since I posted! But here I am, full of ... ok ... truth is I am pooped. It was so wonderful, but so exhausting. I talked till I lost my voice, I pitched and it worked out very well (no illusions: my DD calls me a pessimist, but I call myself a realist). It's hard to be "on" all the time. And it's hard to figure out who is who... and it's hard to have a success and then reflect upon the folks in one's life who aren't there to celebrate it.
And as an unpublished writer, every small success is celebrated over at my house.
I learned a lot about myself. Yes, I am not shy, but I am a bit reserved. I can tell a funny story (about myself--easier that way) and people laugh at my stories. But to hobnob in a group of many, many people who I don't know and some of them might be "uber important?" No way. It's daunting. Plus, I don't like NOISE and crowds that are too large. It's like going to a vampire ball for me. Sucks me dry.
So. I didn't make it to the RITA/GOLDEN HEART Reception for chocolate and wine. Too many people and too overwhelming, but I loved watching everyone kibbitz and I enjoyed all the winners' speeches and I loved dressing up pretty for a change.
I learned I like one-on-one chats or small groups. I learned I can shut up--don't laugh those who know me and who are reading this! All those years of DISCIPLE Class have paid off! I just look down.
Oh, I learned to smile and wave... a lot. Ask the penguins.
I learned that I am a floater, not good at introducing people I don't know to people I hardly know, but exceedingly good at introducing people I just met to people I just met... it's a weird thing. I felt too new -- I guess I hung back a bit, but I had a great time. And I learned I can do this again.
Plus I got my requests: woot!!!!!!!!! It's a temporary high.
And now it's back to reality: writing and polishing. Back to wondering if it is worthy to send. If I am a crap writer and am always going to get close but no cigar... But no matter. It is here. A start. I plan. I plot. I have more stories beating the brain cells and begging me to hurry up and get this book out the door. I have a fourth ready for revision. I have a fifth in embryonic stages, and I have a series I am playing with for YA.
Even if I am never published, I have learned that romance writers rock and I am blessed to be a part of this huge, creative group of people. From top to me, they care. We are all on the same journey.
It is crazy. A journey filled with sorrow, bizarre fits of happiness, an occasional jaunt to buy much chocolate, and one's companions totally get one's complete obsession with Hugh Jackman, cutting out pictures of amazing gorgeous men, spinning tales and living in one's head. They get the hope, the fear, the doubt, the shoes, did I mention the chocolate and the wine, and the glory of jumping each hurdle and reaching each goal.
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