Misty Zaugg's Blog, page 8
July 9, 2021
Last chance 99c on Deadly Lockdown! . . . plus, Do you have a shield lying around? Weapon Tip #8
Hi friends,
Big day today!
If you missed out last week, Deadly Lockdown is still 99c right now before we bump it back up to $2.99.
. . . AND Searching for Resistance, Aftermath Book #5 just came out today! :D
Deadly Lockdown by Misty Zaugg & Stephanie Mylchreest
$0.99 Special Today!
Thanks to all of you who posted a review! Keep them coming!
Scott: "Thrilling and suspenseful story! This is a strong series opener, good character development and action mixed with lifelike scenarios make for an exciting read."
Barbara: "An exciting, pulse pounding story you can't put down."
Debbie: "A gripping storyline of survival, of unbelievable atrocities, of nonstop peril and danger, of hope, of friendship and family "
Kindle customer 001: "I read this over a holiday weekend. I couldn't put it down! The characters are well developed and the story will make you think. You really have to read this!"
Searching for Resistance: Aftermath #5
New TODAY! FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
And then only one more book to complete April and Rita's saga of surviving the collapse of society. Searching for Victory comes out August 20th! Thanks for all your support!
______________________
Do you have a shield lying around? Weapon Tip #8
This week's weapon tip is a blend of how to defend against a weapon and improvising with things in your environment.
What household and workplace items can be turned into a defensive shield to be used against an attacker who may or may not have a weapon? (excluding firearms)
Possible scenario:
When the doorbell rings early one morning, you don't answer it because you're busy and not expecting anyone. A few minutes later, you hear the front door open and when you come around the corner are startled to see a man in your entryway rifling through the drawers of the dresser there. He is holding your car keys in his hands. He drops them to quickly pull out a knife and threatens you.
What's your best response?
Obviously to run out a rear or garage door and call for help if you have no one else in the house to protect.
If you can't, how can you protect yourself against a knife to break past the man and get to safety? What 'shields' do you have lying around?
Ideas:
• The barstool from the kitchen behind you. Think 'lion tamer' and use the legs of the stool to keep the attacker at a distance so you can escape unhurt.
• Items with thick material - think small blanket, towel, thick coat, etc. Quickly wrap it around your blocking hand and arm and use that to deflect the incoming knife while using your other arm and legs to kick and strike until you can get free.
• Ranged weapons: Ever hear that the best defense is a good offense? Grab that heavy can of beans, the glass paperweight, the electric pencil sharpener or other fist-sized heavy object and throw them as hard as you can at the intruder.
• Keep the attacker at a distance: A knife or club wielder is most dangerous when you get within range of the weapon. You can strike and jab with long items to keep them at bay. Ideas: Umbrella, broomstick, shovel, mop, etc.
What do you think? What other household or workplace things could you use as shields and defensive items if attacked?
What about right now?
Scan your surroundings. What three items could you use if someone were to break in to attack you?
Send me your list, and I'll put it in next week's newsletter. :D
Stay safe out there, and thank you again for supporting my writing so I can continue to create more stories!!
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
What's a trope?
I'd barely heard of the word before I started writing. But now, I realize how important the concept is to create stories readers will enjoy.
So, what is it?
It's really just a general concept or idea that we find in fiction. It can reference the plot, character, settings, etc. And tropes can differ considerably depending on the genre of fiction.
A few examples from different genres:
• Orphaned main character at the bottom of society who rises to the top by the end of the book/series/movie.
• Main character has unusual power that attracts the attention of powerful bad guys.
• Bully bad guy who gets his/her just desserts in the end.
• A side character with a secret persona that is revealed over the course of the book/series.
• Friend turned betrayer.
• Best friend turns into love interest.
• The main character solves a problem or wins a battle by thinking creatively outside the box and not using the normal tools to solve the problem.
• A wise mentor provides little nuggets of guidance at just the right time to nudge the main character toward success.
• Main character almost gives up, but succeeds by refusing to quit.
And the list is endless!
Once I understood the concept, I started noticing them in the books I like reading and have been jotting them down ever since.
Now, I'm working on including my favorite tropes in the outline of my newest fantasy, litrpg series.
Question for my fantasy and litrpg readers out there: What are your favorite tropes you like to see in books? Let me know, and I'll add them to my outline! :D
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
Big day today!
If you missed out last week, Deadly Lockdown is still 99c right now before we bump it back up to $2.99.
. . . AND Searching for Resistance, Aftermath Book #5 just came out today! :D
Deadly Lockdown by Misty Zaugg & Stephanie Mylchreest
$0.99 Special Today!
Thanks to all of you who posted a review! Keep them coming!
Scott: "Thrilling and suspenseful story! This is a strong series opener, good character development and action mixed with lifelike scenarios make for an exciting read."
Barbara: "An exciting, pulse pounding story you can't put down."
Debbie: "A gripping storyline of survival, of unbelievable atrocities, of nonstop peril and danger, of hope, of friendship and family "
Kindle customer 001: "I read this over a holiday weekend. I couldn't put it down! The characters are well developed and the story will make you think. You really have to read this!"
Searching for Resistance: Aftermath #5
New TODAY! FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
And then only one more book to complete April and Rita's saga of surviving the collapse of society. Searching for Victory comes out August 20th! Thanks for all your support!
______________________
Do you have a shield lying around? Weapon Tip #8
This week's weapon tip is a blend of how to defend against a weapon and improvising with things in your environment.
What household and workplace items can be turned into a defensive shield to be used against an attacker who may or may not have a weapon? (excluding firearms)
Possible scenario:
When the doorbell rings early one morning, you don't answer it because you're busy and not expecting anyone. A few minutes later, you hear the front door open and when you come around the corner are startled to see a man in your entryway rifling through the drawers of the dresser there. He is holding your car keys in his hands. He drops them to quickly pull out a knife and threatens you.
What's your best response?
Obviously to run out a rear or garage door and call for help if you have no one else in the house to protect.
If you can't, how can you protect yourself against a knife to break past the man and get to safety? What 'shields' do you have lying around?
Ideas:
• The barstool from the kitchen behind you. Think 'lion tamer' and use the legs of the stool to keep the attacker at a distance so you can escape unhurt.
• Items with thick material - think small blanket, towel, thick coat, etc. Quickly wrap it around your blocking hand and arm and use that to deflect the incoming knife while using your other arm and legs to kick and strike until you can get free.
• Ranged weapons: Ever hear that the best defense is a good offense? Grab that heavy can of beans, the glass paperweight, the electric pencil sharpener or other fist-sized heavy object and throw them as hard as you can at the intruder.
• Keep the attacker at a distance: A knife or club wielder is most dangerous when you get within range of the weapon. You can strike and jab with long items to keep them at bay. Ideas: Umbrella, broomstick, shovel, mop, etc.
What do you think? What other household or workplace things could you use as shields and defensive items if attacked?
What about right now?
Scan your surroundings. What three items could you use if someone were to break in to attack you?
Send me your list, and I'll put it in next week's newsletter. :D
Stay safe out there, and thank you again for supporting my writing so I can continue to create more stories!!
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
What's a trope?
I'd barely heard of the word before I started writing. But now, I realize how important the concept is to create stories readers will enjoy.
So, what is it?
It's really just a general concept or idea that we find in fiction. It can reference the plot, character, settings, etc. And tropes can differ considerably depending on the genre of fiction.
A few examples from different genres:
• Orphaned main character at the bottom of society who rises to the top by the end of the book/series/movie.
• Main character has unusual power that attracts the attention of powerful bad guys.
• Bully bad guy who gets his/her just desserts in the end.
• A side character with a secret persona that is revealed over the course of the book/series.
• Friend turned betrayer.
• Best friend turns into love interest.
• The main character solves a problem or wins a battle by thinking creatively outside the box and not using the normal tools to solve the problem.
• A wise mentor provides little nuggets of guidance at just the right time to nudge the main character toward success.
• Main character almost gives up, but succeeds by refusing to quit.
And the list is endless!
Once I understood the concept, I started noticing them in the books I like reading and have been jotting them down ever since.
Now, I'm working on including my favorite tropes in the outline of my newest fantasy, litrpg series.
Question for my fantasy and litrpg readers out there: What are your favorite tropes you like to see in books? Let me know, and I'll add them to my outline! :D
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
July 1, 2021
99c Deal on Deadly Lockdown is here! Thank You Readers!
Hi friends,
Steph and I are so excited to announce Deadly Lockdown is now available and 99c for a short time to thank our readers for their support. Grab a copy before it goes back up to $2.99.
Deadly Lockdown by Misty Zaugg & Stephanie Mylchreest
$0.99 Special!
A deadly illness. Panicked lockdown. And two sisters who’ll stop at nothing to save each other.
The second wave of the Siberian Flu catches the country completely unprepared. Instead of killing the old and frail, the young and healthy are dropping . . . in hours, not days.
Now it’s a race to survive. Kate, a new doctor, has to fight through a city turning deadlier by the second and traverse a chaotic country to save her younger sister, Alisa.
Back in their small home-town, she’s fighting a conspiracy even deadlier than the pandemic.
As an invisible killer spreads like wildfire, society breaks down with astonishing speed. Refusing to succumb to the chaos, the sisters dig deep for strength, rely on new friends, and overcome deadly obstacles to save each other.
(NOTE: This book was written in 2019 and finished before the current pandemic.)
______________________
Books 2 and 3 are going through final edits and are set to release this summer.
A few kind readers have already posted some awesome reviews. Any of you speedy readers who could spare a minute or two to add your reviews, too, would be much appreciated! You're the best!
We'd love to hear what you think of the new series! :D
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
Thanks for all the feedback about fantasy races for my new series. The consensus seems to be that the familiar lineup of elves, dwarves, orcs, etc., is something fantasy readers enjoy a lot, but adding a creative twist to them and possibly another race or two would be icing on the cake.
This week, I'll be spreading my papers across the kitchen table and enlisting my teenage boys to help with the brainstorming. I'll try to get a pic to share with you next week of the process. :)
Feel free to chime in with any interesting twist ideas you might have on the traditional fantasy races, and I just might include them! :D
Let me know!
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
Steph and I are so excited to announce Deadly Lockdown is now available and 99c for a short time to thank our readers for their support. Grab a copy before it goes back up to $2.99.
Deadly Lockdown by Misty Zaugg & Stephanie Mylchreest
$0.99 Special!
A deadly illness. Panicked lockdown. And two sisters who’ll stop at nothing to save each other.
The second wave of the Siberian Flu catches the country completely unprepared. Instead of killing the old and frail, the young and healthy are dropping . . . in hours, not days.
Now it’s a race to survive. Kate, a new doctor, has to fight through a city turning deadlier by the second and traverse a chaotic country to save her younger sister, Alisa.
Back in their small home-town, she’s fighting a conspiracy even deadlier than the pandemic.
As an invisible killer spreads like wildfire, society breaks down with astonishing speed. Refusing to succumb to the chaos, the sisters dig deep for strength, rely on new friends, and overcome deadly obstacles to save each other.
(NOTE: This book was written in 2019 and finished before the current pandemic.)
______________________
Books 2 and 3 are going through final edits and are set to release this summer.
A few kind readers have already posted some awesome reviews. Any of you speedy readers who could spare a minute or two to add your reviews, too, would be much appreciated! You're the best!
We'd love to hear what you think of the new series! :D
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
Thanks for all the feedback about fantasy races for my new series. The consensus seems to be that the familiar lineup of elves, dwarves, orcs, etc., is something fantasy readers enjoy a lot, but adding a creative twist to them and possibly another race or two would be icing on the cake.
This week, I'll be spreading my papers across the kitchen table and enlisting my teenage boys to help with the brainstorming. I'll try to get a pic to share with you next week of the process. :)
Feel free to chime in with any interesting twist ideas you might have on the traditional fantasy races, and I just might include them! :D
Let me know!
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
June 25, 2021
Do you buy in bulk? Be prepared Tip #6
Do you buy in bulk? Be prepared Tip #6
Hi friends,
Two more weeks until Searching for Resistance comes out! We're pretty excited!
Searching for Resistance: Aftermath #5
And for those who like a complete series, the final book #6 will be out in August! :D
Thanks again to those of you who've taken the time to leave a review - here are some of the latest:
Erica says, "The first 100 pages read quickly and I could hardly put it down! This story offers a creative possibility for an apocalypse. I quickly fell into the characters, and looking forward to book 2."
And another Amazon reader: "Pretty da** good. A scenario different from most, good writing, complex characters and a long story arc."
Thanks for all your support. You're the best!
______________________
Do you buy in bulk? Be prepared Tip #6
I've got six kids, and I rarely buy one can or box of anything at the grocery store. It's usually a flat or case for me, especially with so many teenage boys fueling their growth and activities. :D
But even better is to find a source of bulk goods, fifty pound bags of grains, legumes, seeds, etc.
Why do it?
Pros of buying bulk:
• Cheaper: I pay $25 for a 50# bag of rolled oats which is only $0.50/lb.
• Healthier: Making meals from bulk food avoids a lot of the additives found in pre-packaged meals.
• Learn new skills like how to soak and cook beans, use a pressure cooker, and cook new whole food recipes, etc.
• Food storage for disasters and emergencies that can last years and even decades if stored correctly (I'll discuss that in another newsletter)
Where to find bulk:
• Ask around. With social media, it's much easier to quickly ask a large group of locals where they buy bulk food from.
• In the Midwest, try CLNF.org, where I get a lot of mine. Group together with others to meet the $400 minimum order, and they'll deliver it for free via truck.
• My church has several dedicated non-profit food storage facilities around the country: https://providentliving.churchofjesus...
• https://honeyville.com/products/whole... is a great place if you live near the Utah area.
Sorry to my international friends, since I only know places in the United States.
If you have tips for other countries or even great places to get bulk in the states, please send me a note, and I'll add it to a future newsletter.
How about you? Do you store bulk foods or maintain a different kind of food storage? I'd love to hear!
Misty's Writing Update:
I forgot how much worldbuilding went into fantasy novels since I've been writing in post-apoc lately, and we just use our current world as the setting in those novels.
So my question this week is about races in a fantasy world:
In addition to humans, would you prefer the traditional fantasy races like elves, dwarves, orcs, goblins, etc. in a magic academy book with a leveling game-like setting?
Or would you prefer a variety of new humanoids created by the author, a different take on a flying people, underground or digging dwellers, elemental affinity types, etc?
I kind of like both, so I may even do a combo - lol.
Let me know!
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
Hi friends,
Two more weeks until Searching for Resistance comes out! We're pretty excited!
Searching for Resistance: Aftermath #5
And for those who like a complete series, the final book #6 will be out in August! :D
Thanks again to those of you who've taken the time to leave a review - here are some of the latest:
Erica says, "The first 100 pages read quickly and I could hardly put it down! This story offers a creative possibility for an apocalypse. I quickly fell into the characters, and looking forward to book 2."
And another Amazon reader: "Pretty da** good. A scenario different from most, good writing, complex characters and a long story arc."
Thanks for all your support. You're the best!
______________________
Do you buy in bulk? Be prepared Tip #6
I've got six kids, and I rarely buy one can or box of anything at the grocery store. It's usually a flat or case for me, especially with so many teenage boys fueling their growth and activities. :D
But even better is to find a source of bulk goods, fifty pound bags of grains, legumes, seeds, etc.
Why do it?
Pros of buying bulk:
• Cheaper: I pay $25 for a 50# bag of rolled oats which is only $0.50/lb.
• Healthier: Making meals from bulk food avoids a lot of the additives found in pre-packaged meals.
• Learn new skills like how to soak and cook beans, use a pressure cooker, and cook new whole food recipes, etc.
• Food storage for disasters and emergencies that can last years and even decades if stored correctly (I'll discuss that in another newsletter)
Where to find bulk:
• Ask around. With social media, it's much easier to quickly ask a large group of locals where they buy bulk food from.
• In the Midwest, try CLNF.org, where I get a lot of mine. Group together with others to meet the $400 minimum order, and they'll deliver it for free via truck.
• My church has several dedicated non-profit food storage facilities around the country: https://providentliving.churchofjesus...
• https://honeyville.com/products/whole... is a great place if you live near the Utah area.
Sorry to my international friends, since I only know places in the United States.
If you have tips for other countries or even great places to get bulk in the states, please send me a note, and I'll add it to a future newsletter.
How about you? Do you store bulk foods or maintain a different kind of food storage? I'd love to hear!
Misty's Writing Update:
I forgot how much worldbuilding went into fantasy novels since I've been writing in post-apoc lately, and we just use our current world as the setting in those novels.
So my question this week is about races in a fantasy world:
In addition to humans, would you prefer the traditional fantasy races like elves, dwarves, orcs, goblins, etc. in a magic academy book with a leveling game-like setting?
Or would you prefer a variety of new humanoids created by the author, a different take on a flying people, underground or digging dwellers, elemental affinity types, etc?
I kind of like both, so I may even do a combo - lol.
Let me know!
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
Fight with your voice! Self-defense Tip #14
Hi friends,
Wow! Who knew so many of you had bald eagles in your area! I loved hearing your stories about them. Thanks to:
Scott in Wisconson
Bre in Michigan
Karl near Arkansas River
Lynne in Kansas
I think it's pretty cool that the eagles are making such a comeback. :)
______________________
Your Voice as Self-Defense: Tip #14
This is a great self-defense tip for those who may feel shy and unsure of themselves. It doesn't require any special skills and is easy to practice. Plus, if you can learn to project confidence when you speak, you can divert an attacker before the attack even happens.
You've probably all seen some type of karate practice where the students let out loud "kiai" cries as they punch and kick.
This yell serves a few purposes:
• helps them hit harder
• tightens their core muscles to protect against getting hit
• can intimidate their opponents
When I teach self-defense seminars, the girls and women often think it's a bit silly to let out a karate yell. I remember a fit of giggling when I tried teaching a 'kaia' to a group of teenage girls.
So, we picked a compromise: a short direct phrase that lets an attacker know that you're serious. Here are a few of their favorites:
• Back off!
• Jerk!
• No!
Pick one you like and practice it in the mirror. Meet the attacker's eyes and bark out the command with as much force as possible.
You can combine the command with a strike if someone has already grabbed or attacked you. Or you can preempt an attack before it happens.
Example scenario: Heading to your car after a movie, you notice a man watching you from a bench. After you walk by, he stands and begins to follow you. You stop and turn to face him. He meets your gaze and you feel threatened. You quickly figure out the best path to get around him and back to the crowded movie theater.
Meeting his eyes, you lift up one hand and tell him to, "Back off!"
He looks startled, and his eyes go wide as he stops. He mumbles something and then with a shrug, he shakes his head and walks away.
Keeping an eye on your surroundings, you hurry back to the theatre and ask someone to accompany you to your car.
A confident voice and demeanor can discourage an attacker before he engages.
Stay safe out there and I hope you're enjoying your summer!
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
This week I dug into Amazon and Bookbub to find a bunch of authors who write similar post-apocalyptic fiction so I could send advertising to their readers.
I also brushed up on some of my image creation skills - thanks to my graphic design daughter - and designed a handful of advertising images. Hopefully they'll grab people's attention!
It's quite a different skill set compared to the author side of the business.
It draws on my inner marketing and business persona, which I also enjoy.
So, we'll see how well I can pull it off. In any case, I'm always learning!
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
P.S. Click below to follow me on Bookbub so you'll be notified when my new books come out:
Follow Misty on Bookbub
Wow! Who knew so many of you had bald eagles in your area! I loved hearing your stories about them. Thanks to:
Scott in Wisconson
Bre in Michigan
Karl near Arkansas River
Lynne in Kansas
I think it's pretty cool that the eagles are making such a comeback. :)
______________________
Your Voice as Self-Defense: Tip #14
This is a great self-defense tip for those who may feel shy and unsure of themselves. It doesn't require any special skills and is easy to practice. Plus, if you can learn to project confidence when you speak, you can divert an attacker before the attack even happens.
You've probably all seen some type of karate practice where the students let out loud "kiai" cries as they punch and kick.
This yell serves a few purposes:
• helps them hit harder
• tightens their core muscles to protect against getting hit
• can intimidate their opponents
When I teach self-defense seminars, the girls and women often think it's a bit silly to let out a karate yell. I remember a fit of giggling when I tried teaching a 'kaia' to a group of teenage girls.
So, we picked a compromise: a short direct phrase that lets an attacker know that you're serious. Here are a few of their favorites:
• Back off!
• Jerk!
• No!
Pick one you like and practice it in the mirror. Meet the attacker's eyes and bark out the command with as much force as possible.
You can combine the command with a strike if someone has already grabbed or attacked you. Or you can preempt an attack before it happens.
Example scenario: Heading to your car after a movie, you notice a man watching you from a bench. After you walk by, he stands and begins to follow you. You stop and turn to face him. He meets your gaze and you feel threatened. You quickly figure out the best path to get around him and back to the crowded movie theater.
Meeting his eyes, you lift up one hand and tell him to, "Back off!"
He looks startled, and his eyes go wide as he stops. He mumbles something and then with a shrug, he shakes his head and walks away.
Keeping an eye on your surroundings, you hurry back to the theatre and ask someone to accompany you to your car.
A confident voice and demeanor can discourage an attacker before he engages.
Stay safe out there and I hope you're enjoying your summer!
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
This week I dug into Amazon and Bookbub to find a bunch of authors who write similar post-apocalyptic fiction so I could send advertising to their readers.
I also brushed up on some of my image creation skills - thanks to my graphic design daughter - and designed a handful of advertising images. Hopefully they'll grab people's attention!
It's quite a different skill set compared to the author side of the business.
It draws on my inner marketing and business persona, which I also enjoy.
So, we'll see how well I can pull it off. In any case, I'm always learning!
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
P.S. Click below to follow me on Bookbub so you'll be notified when my new books come out:
Follow Misty on Bookbub
June 16, 2021
Bald Eagles in Michigan? And big family trips!
Hi friends,
The summer vacation season at our house started with a bang! My sister and her family of six kids ages from 3 to 13 took the multi-day drive out to visit us for a week. The house was packed with fun and chaos: board games, park days and, of all things . . . bald eagles?!?
My brother-in-law did some browsing on the internet and found the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge just a few hours drive from us. He treated us to a boat ride with an awesome tour guide who had grown up on the river, poking into all its corners as a kid. He filled the three-hour boat tour with stories and fun details on all the wildlife there. We saw a beaver near its damn, a deer climbing out of the water, muskrats swimming, and tons of water birds including some beautiful herons.
But the highlight of the trip was the bald eagles. We took the boat down a side inlet with huge trees on either side and above us, so many bald eagles were flying and swooping into the trees. So cool!
Too bad I didn't have my zoom lens, but still gorgeous!
And this is another lesson to take more time to explore the area I live in. After close to twenty years here, I still had no idea this amazing preserve was within driving distance! :D
How about you? Have you discovered some hidden gems to visit where you live? And if this is your vacation season, I hope you're able to find something enjoyable and exciting to do with the ones you love!
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
We capped off my family's visit with a two-day trip to a waterpark for lots of slides, swimming and fun.
The house is now quiet again and most of us are catching up on sleep. LOL.
Do you have to recover from your vacations, too?
Next week, the outlining and designing of my new litrpg series starts, with the magic system, leveling, spells, and groups of elemental monsters high on the list for brainstorming.
Should be a blast!
I hope your June is going well and life is treating you well!
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
P.S. Click below to follow me so you'll be notified when my new books come out:
Follow Misty on GoodReads
The summer vacation season at our house started with a bang! My sister and her family of six kids ages from 3 to 13 took the multi-day drive out to visit us for a week. The house was packed with fun and chaos: board games, park days and, of all things . . . bald eagles?!?
My brother-in-law did some browsing on the internet and found the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge just a few hours drive from us. He treated us to a boat ride with an awesome tour guide who had grown up on the river, poking into all its corners as a kid. He filled the three-hour boat tour with stories and fun details on all the wildlife there. We saw a beaver near its damn, a deer climbing out of the water, muskrats swimming, and tons of water birds including some beautiful herons.
But the highlight of the trip was the bald eagles. We took the boat down a side inlet with huge trees on either side and above us, so many bald eagles were flying and swooping into the trees. So cool!
Too bad I didn't have my zoom lens, but still gorgeous!
And this is another lesson to take more time to explore the area I live in. After close to twenty years here, I still had no idea this amazing preserve was within driving distance! :D
How about you? Have you discovered some hidden gems to visit where you live? And if this is your vacation season, I hope you're able to find something enjoyable and exciting to do with the ones you love!
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
We capped off my family's visit with a two-day trip to a waterpark for lots of slides, swimming and fun.
The house is now quiet again and most of us are catching up on sleep. LOL.
Do you have to recover from your vacations, too?
Next week, the outlining and designing of my new litrpg series starts, with the magic system, leveling, spells, and groups of elemental monsters high on the list for brainstorming.
Should be a blast!
I hope your June is going well and life is treating you well!
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
P.S. Click below to follow me so you'll be notified when my new books come out:
Follow Misty on GoodReads
June 11, 2021
When a Promise is Dangerous - Warning Signs #6
Hi friends,
Searching for Allies has been having a great first week thanks to all of you! And awesome readers have already posted a handful of encouraging reviews - You're the best!
Check it out:
Searching for Allies: Book 4 in Aftermath
And a quick note: If you want to be notified when my new books come out - head over to Amazon and click the "Follow" button under my pic on my author page:
https://www.amazon.com/author/mistyzaugg
______________________
When a Promise is Dangerous. Warning Signs #6
Here's the sixth tip about behaviors that can warn you an attack is imminent from the informative book "The Gift of Fear" by Gavin deBecker.
Remember, no single one of these seven behaviors predicts that an attack will come, but if you see multiple ones, be warned.
Here's the list of the ones I've discussed so far:
1. Discounting the word "No"
2. Too many details
3. Charm and Niceness
4. Loansharking
5. Forced Teaming
And for today:
#6 Unsolicited Promises
A potential attacker will make a promise to do (or not do) something in order to reassure you they aren't dangerous .
"I promise I'm a nice guy."
"I promise I'm not going to hurt you."
"I promise I only need your phone for a minute."
"Can you give me a ride? I promise my house is just around the corner."
Example #1:
A good-looking man knocks at your door, looking sheepish. (Charm and Niceness)
"I'm so sorry to bother you, but I just ran out of gas and my phone is dead. I'm such an idiot. I'm sure you've probably let your phone die, like me. (Forced Teaming).
Would you let me come in and use your phone? I promise it'll only take a minute. (Unsolicited Promise)
Example #2:
A mom rushes flustered to the back of a grocery store with multiple small children and one that has to go to the bathroom NOW.
A personable man gives the mom a sympathetic look. "Oh, wow," he says. "I really don't miss potty training." (Forced Teaming) "Can I help?" (Loan Sharking)
"No, I've got this," she replies, distracted.
"Really," he insists. (Discounting No) "I can watch the others for a minute while you run her into the bathroom really quick. No need to be superwoman." (Typecasting)
She hesitates, glancing toward the bathroom.
"I promise, I'm a really nice guy," he says with a disarming smile. (Unsolicited Promise)
***
These are examples of how a potential attacker will add a promise to give added strength to his reassurance that you don't need to worry.
Now that you know about this warning sign, it should have the opposite effect.
"I promise I won't hurt you."
becomes
"I'm planning to hurt you."
Remember, someone with no ill intentions toward you doesn't need to convince you they are safe and harmless.
***
Stay safe out there! And if you've noticed any of these warning signs in a real situation, I'd love to hear what happened. I enjoy reading your stories!
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
With my sister's family with six kids in town visiting, we've been in the midst of enjoyable bedlam . . . and no writing (other than this newsletter).
It's pretty fun to take a break from the daily writing to reconnect with some family who live so far from us.
How about you? I hope you're able to visit with friends and family again as the covid pandemic finally begins to wind down in many places.
I'm also jotting down ideas for my new litrpg fantasy series, which is part of the writing process I really enjoy. Creating a new world. Complex magic and people. What's not to love?
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
Searching for Allies has been having a great first week thanks to all of you! And awesome readers have already posted a handful of encouraging reviews - You're the best!
Check it out:
Searching for Allies: Book 4 in Aftermath
And a quick note: If you want to be notified when my new books come out - head over to Amazon and click the "Follow" button under my pic on my author page:
https://www.amazon.com/author/mistyzaugg
______________________
When a Promise is Dangerous. Warning Signs #6
Here's the sixth tip about behaviors that can warn you an attack is imminent from the informative book "The Gift of Fear" by Gavin deBecker.
Remember, no single one of these seven behaviors predicts that an attack will come, but if you see multiple ones, be warned.
Here's the list of the ones I've discussed so far:
1. Discounting the word "No"
2. Too many details
3. Charm and Niceness
4. Loansharking
5. Forced Teaming
And for today:
#6 Unsolicited Promises
A potential attacker will make a promise to do (or not do) something in order to reassure you they aren't dangerous .
"I promise I'm a nice guy."
"I promise I'm not going to hurt you."
"I promise I only need your phone for a minute."
"Can you give me a ride? I promise my house is just around the corner."
Example #1:
A good-looking man knocks at your door, looking sheepish. (Charm and Niceness)
"I'm so sorry to bother you, but I just ran out of gas and my phone is dead. I'm such an idiot. I'm sure you've probably let your phone die, like me. (Forced Teaming).
Would you let me come in and use your phone? I promise it'll only take a minute. (Unsolicited Promise)
Example #2:
A mom rushes flustered to the back of a grocery store with multiple small children and one that has to go to the bathroom NOW.
A personable man gives the mom a sympathetic look. "Oh, wow," he says. "I really don't miss potty training." (Forced Teaming) "Can I help?" (Loan Sharking)
"No, I've got this," she replies, distracted.
"Really," he insists. (Discounting No) "I can watch the others for a minute while you run her into the bathroom really quick. No need to be superwoman." (Typecasting)
She hesitates, glancing toward the bathroom.
"I promise, I'm a really nice guy," he says with a disarming smile. (Unsolicited Promise)
***
These are examples of how a potential attacker will add a promise to give added strength to his reassurance that you don't need to worry.
Now that you know about this warning sign, it should have the opposite effect.
"I promise I won't hurt you."
becomes
"I'm planning to hurt you."
Remember, someone with no ill intentions toward you doesn't need to convince you they are safe and harmless.
***
Stay safe out there! And if you've noticed any of these warning signs in a real situation, I'd love to hear what happened. I enjoy reading your stories!
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
With my sister's family with six kids in town visiting, we've been in the midst of enjoyable bedlam . . . and no writing (other than this newsletter).
It's pretty fun to take a break from the daily writing to reconnect with some family who live so far from us.
How about you? I hope you're able to visit with friends and family again as the covid pandemic finally begins to wind down in many places.
I'm also jotting down ideas for my new litrpg fantasy series, which is part of the writing process I really enjoy. Creating a new world. Complex magic and people. What's not to love?
Happy reading this week!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
June 2, 2021
A stick could save your life. Weapon Tip #7
A stick could save your life. Weapon Tip #7
Hi friends,
Happy release day today for: Searching for Allies!
Any of you speed readers who could throw up a nice review when you finish would be greatly appreciated. Those first few reviews make a big difference!
And thanks to everyone who helped push Searching for Shelter over the 100 review mark!! Our first book to ever reach that milestone. You're the best!
______________________
A stick could save your life. Weapon Tip #7
As you know, I generally teach how to recognize and avoid dangerous situations and then how to use your own strikes to break free from an attack.
Weapons are usually the last thing I teach because they require lots of training, they need to always be with you within easy reach, and they can be taken away and used against you.
But what about a weapon you can find just lying around waiting to be picked up in many situations? One that is cheap and not to difficult to learn?
The stick! :D
Think about where you might find one when you're in danger:
• on the ground outside
• a broomstick leaning against the wall in the kitchen
• a baseball bat in the tub of sport equipment
• a shovel handle in the garage
• the janitor's mop at school or work
• A cane or walking stick
• A long flashlight might count?
• and very loosely, let's include chairs in this - holding up the four 'sticks' (legs) like a lion tamer would to fend off an attacker.
How to use a stick for self-defense:
• Jab with it - just like spears were used to in ancient wars to keep the enemy out of reach, you can jab toward the gut and groin to cause pain and toward the face to make an attacker flinch back, giving you time to get out of there.
• Swing with it - draw on those baseball skills and use the far end of the stick to strike. (Just use short, fast swings, not a big windup like in baseball) Good targets are the head plus any hard, bony areas, shoulders, ribs, elbows, wrists, and knees.
• Block with it - Step back and strike at an incoming grab or non-gun weapon. Follow up immediately with more fast strikes to vulnerable areas.
Remember your goal in self-defense is to get out of the situation if you weren't able to avoid it in the first place. This means causing fast, debilitating pain so you can safely run.
Finally, practice!
If you have an old broomstick or other decently-sized stick, take it firmly in two hands and find a target to practice on. In this case, a tree truck, a fence post or similar object works great. Practice jabs and strikes to get a feel for how to keep the swings short and strong. Hit quickly and bring the stick back to your center between strikes.
It is worthwhile and fun to take a course in stick fighting or something like escrima, because sticks are truly the easiest weapon to find just lying around waiting to be used for defense.
I'd love to hear back from any of you who have more tips on using sticks or canes for defense.
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
The first draft of Deadly Rescue is officially done and now the rest of the author work is piling up.
We'll be sending Virus books 2 and 3 out to beta readers to help us find any last pesky typos or plot holes. Please email me if you'd like to join our street team to help read them ahead of time and put up early reviews.
We're also going dive into the big world of book advertising and see if we can be effective without losing too much money on the learning process. Wish us luck!
And I spent a couple hours brainstorming magic systems and the fantasy world of my new series with my 13-year-old son who is an avid fantasy fan and came up with a ton of awesome ideas. I love my kids!
Happy reading out there!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
Hi friends,
Happy release day today for: Searching for Allies!
Any of you speed readers who could throw up a nice review when you finish would be greatly appreciated. Those first few reviews make a big difference!
And thanks to everyone who helped push Searching for Shelter over the 100 review mark!! Our first book to ever reach that milestone. You're the best!
______________________
A stick could save your life. Weapon Tip #7
As you know, I generally teach how to recognize and avoid dangerous situations and then how to use your own strikes to break free from an attack.
Weapons are usually the last thing I teach because they require lots of training, they need to always be with you within easy reach, and they can be taken away and used against you.
But what about a weapon you can find just lying around waiting to be picked up in many situations? One that is cheap and not to difficult to learn?
The stick! :D
Think about where you might find one when you're in danger:
• on the ground outside
• a broomstick leaning against the wall in the kitchen
• a baseball bat in the tub of sport equipment
• a shovel handle in the garage
• the janitor's mop at school or work
• A cane or walking stick
• A long flashlight might count?
• and very loosely, let's include chairs in this - holding up the four 'sticks' (legs) like a lion tamer would to fend off an attacker.
How to use a stick for self-defense:
• Jab with it - just like spears were used to in ancient wars to keep the enemy out of reach, you can jab toward the gut and groin to cause pain and toward the face to make an attacker flinch back, giving you time to get out of there.
• Swing with it - draw on those baseball skills and use the far end of the stick to strike. (Just use short, fast swings, not a big windup like in baseball) Good targets are the head plus any hard, bony areas, shoulders, ribs, elbows, wrists, and knees.
• Block with it - Step back and strike at an incoming grab or non-gun weapon. Follow up immediately with more fast strikes to vulnerable areas.
Remember your goal in self-defense is to get out of the situation if you weren't able to avoid it in the first place. This means causing fast, debilitating pain so you can safely run.
Finally, practice!
If you have an old broomstick or other decently-sized stick, take it firmly in two hands and find a target to practice on. In this case, a tree truck, a fence post or similar object works great. Practice jabs and strikes to get a feel for how to keep the swings short and strong. Hit quickly and bring the stick back to your center between strikes.
It is worthwhile and fun to take a course in stick fighting or something like escrima, because sticks are truly the easiest weapon to find just lying around waiting to be used for defense.
I'd love to hear back from any of you who have more tips on using sticks or canes for defense.
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
The first draft of Deadly Rescue is officially done and now the rest of the author work is piling up.
We'll be sending Virus books 2 and 3 out to beta readers to help us find any last pesky typos or plot holes. Please email me if you'd like to join our street team to help read them ahead of time and put up early reviews.
We're also going dive into the big world of book advertising and see if we can be effective without losing too much money on the learning process. Wish us luck!
And I spent a couple hours brainstorming magic systems and the fantasy world of my new series with my 13-year-old son who is an avid fantasy fan and came up with a ton of awesome ideas. I love my kids!
Happy reading out there!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
May 25, 2021
When does your water-purifying bleach expire? Be Prepared Tip #5
Hi friends,
We're getting close to another Aftermath book coming out! Searching for Allies goes live next Friday! They sure seem to publish quickly compared to how long it takes to write them, :D
And more good news, Searching for Shelter, the first in the series is closing in on 100 reviews - a big milestone for us! If you want to help push us over, we'd love it!
______________________
Liquid Bleach expires, try Pool Shock instead - Be Prepared Tip #5
As a kid, I had no idea non-food items expired, like car seats.
And then, as an adult, I learned that the gallons of bleach I'd stored for emergencies would officially expire in a year, while probably remaining good for about another year after that.
I don't know about you, but I don't go through bleach that fast, but I know how important clean water is in an emergency, especially a natural disaster.
Then I learned about Pool Shock - or basically powdered bleach that is used to sanitize the large amounts of water in a pool.
It has more than twice the shelf-life of liquid bleach and could last even longer if stored correctly.
You add a level teaspoon of pool shock (min. 68% Calcium Hypochlorite) to a gallon of water to make a bleach solution. Then use that solution at a ratio of 1 to 100 to purify your water, ie. divide the ounces of your water by 100. Ex. there are 128 oz in a gallon which would require adding 1.28 ounces of the solution to purify it.
Pros:
• Inexpensive
• Saves space! A single bag of powder is the equivalent to many gallons of bleach
• Lasts much long than liquid bleach
Cons:
• It's a dangerous chemical requiring careful storage and handling
• There may be additional chemicals not the best for drinking.
Make sure to do your own research, but I hope you enjoy this tip.
Have a great week and stay safe out there,
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
Steph and I are in the final stretch on Deadly Rescue, and looking forward to launching this new trilogy.
After a bit of a break, I'm planning on starting a fun, new litrpg series about a street kid with an unusual magic forced to a school for mages where he's considered one of the weakest . . . but of course he isn't. :D
It'll be a nice change of pace I'm looking forward to.
Happy reading out there!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
We're getting close to another Aftermath book coming out! Searching for Allies goes live next Friday! They sure seem to publish quickly compared to how long it takes to write them, :D
And more good news, Searching for Shelter, the first in the series is closing in on 100 reviews - a big milestone for us! If you want to help push us over, we'd love it!
______________________
Liquid Bleach expires, try Pool Shock instead - Be Prepared Tip #5
As a kid, I had no idea non-food items expired, like car seats.
And then, as an adult, I learned that the gallons of bleach I'd stored for emergencies would officially expire in a year, while probably remaining good for about another year after that.
I don't know about you, but I don't go through bleach that fast, but I know how important clean water is in an emergency, especially a natural disaster.
Then I learned about Pool Shock - or basically powdered bleach that is used to sanitize the large amounts of water in a pool.
It has more than twice the shelf-life of liquid bleach and could last even longer if stored correctly.
You add a level teaspoon of pool shock (min. 68% Calcium Hypochlorite) to a gallon of water to make a bleach solution. Then use that solution at a ratio of 1 to 100 to purify your water, ie. divide the ounces of your water by 100. Ex. there are 128 oz in a gallon which would require adding 1.28 ounces of the solution to purify it.
Pros:
• Inexpensive
• Saves space! A single bag of powder is the equivalent to many gallons of bleach
• Lasts much long than liquid bleach
Cons:
• It's a dangerous chemical requiring careful storage and handling
• There may be additional chemicals not the best for drinking.
Make sure to do your own research, but I hope you enjoy this tip.
Have a great week and stay safe out there,
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
Steph and I are in the final stretch on Deadly Rescue, and looking forward to launching this new trilogy.
After a bit of a break, I'm planning on starting a fun, new litrpg series about a street kid with an unusual magic forced to a school for mages where he's considered one of the weakest . . . but of course he isn't. :D
It'll be a nice change of pace I'm looking forward to.
Happy reading out there!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
May 19, 2021
Why is taking a hit so important? Self-defense Tip #13
Hi friends,
First off - a couple of you wrote some amazing reviews for our Aftermath books. And Steph and I are so excited! Your enjoyment of our stories is what motivates us to write in the first place. :D
Laurie Harmon said, "Best series Ever read. I could not put down the first 3 books. The writers of these books are genius. If you love post apocalyptic books with real life scenarios you will love this. Great characters action packed. You will not be able to put the book down. I read 3 books in 16 hours. I'm also a speed reader so there you go. Can't wait to read the final 3 books coming in may july and August of 2021. Thank you for writing my favorite #1 best read series yet."
Scott said, "This was a great series starter, it hooked me right from the first chapters. From strong character development and backstories to the action scenes; it made for an intense read. And for a series to follow. Well done."
Thanks to everyone who takes the time to write a little something for new readers browsing for a book to read!
______________________
Taking a hit - Self-defense Tip #13
I'll start this tip with a story:
While serving on a mission trip to Germany in my 20s, I volunteered to teach a self-defense seminar to a group of church women. Helping women and girls learn to protect themselves has always been important to me.
Part way through the seminar, a middle-aged woman shyly raised her hand and asked if there was a way to keep from freezing when scared. She'd been out for a walk along a river in a deserted area. She recounted hearing pounding footsteps behind her. When she looked over her shoulder, she saw a man running directly at her. She described a wave of fear that was so overwhelming it made her completely freeze.
She couldn't move her arms or legs and could barely breathe as she waited for the attack to come . . . and then the man ran on by, a harmless jogger.
But she never forgot that helpless feeling, which motivated her to come to my self-defense class that day.
While freezing like this might sound foreign to many, it is probably eerily familiar to others, especially among women.
It's a simple defensive response, especially when you realize that in the animal world, quick movement can attract predators, while they may not notice prey that doesn't move. It just doesn't work very well against human predators.
So, what lesson do you think I taught in the class that day?
I hit her.
Not like you're thinking :D
I gave her a punching shield and showed her how to stand to brace her body against incoming force. Then, starting with an easy strike, I began hitting the punching shield.
At the start, her eyes widened in shock and fear at even the lightest hit. Pretty soon, though, she narrowed her eyes, looked determined and was able to handle powerful blows.
Once I saw her awesome, new confidence, we put the pad away and moved on to simple punches aimed at her chest. Again, her tentative blocks quickly improved.
She walked out of that class beaming with a new belief in herself, knowing that getting hit wasn't that big a deal, and she could easily fight back in the future.
Many people engage in horseplay and physical sports as they grow up, and have taken plenty of accidental blows, so they know how to shake it off and keep fighting.
But if you're someone who hasn't, and it scares you, it's an easy fear to overcome safely.
Learn to take a hit:
1. Find something dense and soft you can hold. If you don't have a traditional kicking shield or punching bag, roll a few blankets into a tight roll, duct tape old couch cushions together, etc.
2. Put one foot back, turn partially sideways, bend your knees slightly and hold the padding tightly against to your body with your hands out of the way.
3. Get someone you trust to hit the padding. Start easy and slow. Work your way up to force that makes you rock back. You'll learn to adjust your feet and posture to keep from being knocked over.
Next steps:
1. Learn a basic inward block and have your friend reaching out to grab your shirt while you practice a slow block. Advance to blocking slow punches as you get a feel for it and gain confidence.
2. Enroll in a local self-defense class. Even a one-month introductory class would make a big difference
I hope this helps and feel free to send me questions!
Good luck and stay safe out there,
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
New words! I keep using the same words all the time in my writing.
So now, I watch for new words when I'm reading other books or listening to audiobooks.
Because really, how many ways can you say "she sighed"?
huffed out a breath,
exhaled slowly,
leaned back and let out a slow breath . . .
. . . and then pretty soon, I'm re-using the same phrases again, because people pause a lot during conversations and action when they're trying to decide what to do.
Funny thing, I heard another audiobook use "ragged breathing" while on a run last week, and I got all excited to jot it down when I got home for the next fighting scene that challenged my character.
Feel free to shoot me some new ways to describe and of the following: sighing, pulse pounding, ragged breathing . . . and the one that gets me all the time . . . smiling! LOL.
Happy reading out there!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
First off - a couple of you wrote some amazing reviews for our Aftermath books. And Steph and I are so excited! Your enjoyment of our stories is what motivates us to write in the first place. :D
Laurie Harmon said, "Best series Ever read. I could not put down the first 3 books. The writers of these books are genius. If you love post apocalyptic books with real life scenarios you will love this. Great characters action packed. You will not be able to put the book down. I read 3 books in 16 hours. I'm also a speed reader so there you go. Can't wait to read the final 3 books coming in may july and August of 2021. Thank you for writing my favorite #1 best read series yet."
Scott said, "This was a great series starter, it hooked me right from the first chapters. From strong character development and backstories to the action scenes; it made for an intense read. And for a series to follow. Well done."
Thanks to everyone who takes the time to write a little something for new readers browsing for a book to read!
______________________
Taking a hit - Self-defense Tip #13
I'll start this tip with a story:
While serving on a mission trip to Germany in my 20s, I volunteered to teach a self-defense seminar to a group of church women. Helping women and girls learn to protect themselves has always been important to me.
Part way through the seminar, a middle-aged woman shyly raised her hand and asked if there was a way to keep from freezing when scared. She'd been out for a walk along a river in a deserted area. She recounted hearing pounding footsteps behind her. When she looked over her shoulder, she saw a man running directly at her. She described a wave of fear that was so overwhelming it made her completely freeze.
She couldn't move her arms or legs and could barely breathe as she waited for the attack to come . . . and then the man ran on by, a harmless jogger.
But she never forgot that helpless feeling, which motivated her to come to my self-defense class that day.
While freezing like this might sound foreign to many, it is probably eerily familiar to others, especially among women.
It's a simple defensive response, especially when you realize that in the animal world, quick movement can attract predators, while they may not notice prey that doesn't move. It just doesn't work very well against human predators.
So, what lesson do you think I taught in the class that day?
I hit her.
Not like you're thinking :D
I gave her a punching shield and showed her how to stand to brace her body against incoming force. Then, starting with an easy strike, I began hitting the punching shield.
At the start, her eyes widened in shock and fear at even the lightest hit. Pretty soon, though, she narrowed her eyes, looked determined and was able to handle powerful blows.
Once I saw her awesome, new confidence, we put the pad away and moved on to simple punches aimed at her chest. Again, her tentative blocks quickly improved.
She walked out of that class beaming with a new belief in herself, knowing that getting hit wasn't that big a deal, and she could easily fight back in the future.
Many people engage in horseplay and physical sports as they grow up, and have taken plenty of accidental blows, so they know how to shake it off and keep fighting.
But if you're someone who hasn't, and it scares you, it's an easy fear to overcome safely.
Learn to take a hit:
1. Find something dense and soft you can hold. If you don't have a traditional kicking shield or punching bag, roll a few blankets into a tight roll, duct tape old couch cushions together, etc.
2. Put one foot back, turn partially sideways, bend your knees slightly and hold the padding tightly against to your body with your hands out of the way.
3. Get someone you trust to hit the padding. Start easy and slow. Work your way up to force that makes you rock back. You'll learn to adjust your feet and posture to keep from being knocked over.
Next steps:
1. Learn a basic inward block and have your friend reaching out to grab your shirt while you practice a slow block. Advance to blocking slow punches as you get a feel for it and gain confidence.
2. Enroll in a local self-defense class. Even a one-month introductory class would make a big difference
I hope this helps and feel free to send me questions!
Good luck and stay safe out there,
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
New words! I keep using the same words all the time in my writing.
So now, I watch for new words when I'm reading other books or listening to audiobooks.
Because really, how many ways can you say "she sighed"?
huffed out a breath,
exhaled slowly,
leaned back and let out a slow breath . . .
. . . and then pretty soon, I'm re-using the same phrases again, because people pause a lot during conversations and action when they're trying to decide what to do.
Funny thing, I heard another audiobook use "ragged breathing" while on a run last week, and I got all excited to jot it down when I got home for the next fighting scene that challenged my character.
Feel free to shoot me some new ways to describe and of the following: sighing, pulse pounding, ragged breathing . . . and the one that gets me all the time . . . smiling! LOL.
Happy reading out there!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
May 10, 2021
Can your 6-year-old dictate? Mine can. :)
Hi friends,
I thought you'd enjoy a little insight into the author life in a busy household with a bunch of homeschooled kids. . . though more and more are moving off to start their own lives now. (Which is both exciting and sad)
So I spend a chunk of my day dictating stories onto a laptop in my bathroom.
Yes - I write in front of the window in my master bathroom. Don't judge. We have a big family and there are two . . . I repeat . . . two doors that separate me from the rest of the family when I'm writing in my bathroom.
Those doors, however, are no challenge at all to the princess and youngest in the house, my 6-year-old. She makes her way in to ask me all important questions the world or to tattle on her brothers every 4 or 5 minutes some mornings, which explains my slow writing speed lately.
However, she also sits and listens to me dictate and even insisted on dictating her letter to her older sister - she'll speak and I dictate it into my computer for Dragon to transcribe.
So, it was pretty funny when my oldest son called from college to report that the princess had tried to call him on Messenger kids. But when he didn't answer, she sent him a voice message:
"Hi . . . period . . . Can you call me please . . . question mark"
LOL - She's already got correct punctuation down for dictation. Watch out, you might be getting a story from her soon!
And thanks for everyone who's been checking out our new Aftermath series and even better . . . leaving awesome reviews!!
You're the best! Searching for Allies: Book 4 will come out the end of the month.
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
We started the third book in our post-apoc virus series this week! It is a bit of a head-wrench to switch from the main characters we've been writing for the last 9 months in the Aftermath series. A sad goodbye to Rita and April . . . though maybe kept accidentally typing their names a few times in the virus books - lol. Tired brains!
But it's so fun to get back to our old friends who've been waiting since 2019 for us to finish their stories! Kate is the older sister new doctor character who is trapped in St. Louis as the second wave of a deadly flu explodes and the major outbreak cities are being locked down. She's fighting to get home to her younger sister.
Meanwhile, Alisa, back home in small-town Ohio, is dealing with a violent conspiracy that is as deadly as the flu.
So, lots of action, danger and most important, everyday characters who have to fight through their doubts and fears to protect the ones they love.
Right up our alley and hopefully yours.
Have a great week and happy reading!
— Misty :)
Misty Zaugg Website
I thought you'd enjoy a little insight into the author life in a busy household with a bunch of homeschooled kids. . . though more and more are moving off to start their own lives now. (Which is both exciting and sad)
So I spend a chunk of my day dictating stories onto a laptop in my bathroom.
Yes - I write in front of the window in my master bathroom. Don't judge. We have a big family and there are two . . . I repeat . . . two doors that separate me from the rest of the family when I'm writing in my bathroom.
Those doors, however, are no challenge at all to the princess and youngest in the house, my 6-year-old. She makes her way in to ask me all important questions the world or to tattle on her brothers every 4 or 5 minutes some mornings, which explains my slow writing speed lately.
However, she also sits and listens to me dictate and even insisted on dictating her letter to her older sister - she'll speak and I dictate it into my computer for Dragon to transcribe.
So, it was pretty funny when my oldest son called from college to report that the princess had tried to call him on Messenger kids. But when he didn't answer, she sent him a voice message:
"Hi . . . period . . . Can you call me please . . . question mark"
LOL - She's already got correct punctuation down for dictation. Watch out, you might be getting a story from her soon!
And thanks for everyone who's been checking out our new Aftermath series and even better . . . leaving awesome reviews!!
You're the best! Searching for Allies: Book 4 will come out the end of the month.
______________________
Misty's Writing Update:
We started the third book in our post-apoc virus series this week! It is a bit of a head-wrench to switch from the main characters we've been writing for the last 9 months in the Aftermath series. A sad goodbye to Rita and April . . . though maybe kept accidentally typing their names a few times in the virus books - lol. Tired brains!
But it's so fun to get back to our old friends who've been waiting since 2019 for us to finish their stories! Kate is the older sister new doctor character who is trapped in St. Louis as the second wave of a deadly flu explodes and the major outbreak cities are being locked down. She's fighting to get home to her younger sister.
Meanwhile, Alisa, back home in small-town Ohio, is dealing with a violent conspiracy that is as deadly as the flu.
So, lots of action, danger and most important, everyday characters who have to fight through their doubts and fears to protect the ones they love.
Right up our alley and hopefully yours.
Have a great week and happy reading!
— Misty :)
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