Tia Silverthorne Bach's Blog, page 83
March 19, 2012
Why I Love to Write About Teenagers: Part One
It took me a while to figure out what I wanted to write. As a reader, I like almost all genres. But my favorite books have at least one thing in common... strong, memorable characters.
After writing Depression Cookies , I realized I love young adult characters. They are this great hybrid... the curiosity and naivete of children but with the will and desire to grow up. So much there for an author to work with.
I also love writing about teenagers, particularly females, because I have the perfect specimen living in my house. It makes research a breeze.
My daughter wants so badly to be grown up, to be trusted and looked at in a different way than her two sisters, who are 10 and almost 7. Yet, she doesn't want to know too much, especially about the birds and the bees (although she'd die to know I called it that).
A recent exchange with my teenager:
Preteen daughter: I want to teach you to play this Sims Life game.
Me/Mom: What's it about?
Preteen daughter: You get to run your own life.
Me/Mom: I do that every day.
Preteen daughter: Yeah, but you get to make people.
Me/Mom: I already did that, too.
My daughter started gagging. She ran from the room telling me I was gross.
Such a contradiction... she loves this game because she can manipulate the life of her made-up character, but she doesn't want to know where babies come from. Too funny.
I'm calling this Part One, because I want to further explore this topic. But I had to share this story first.
Do you study people to write your characters?
After writing Depression Cookies , I realized I love young adult characters. They are this great hybrid... the curiosity and naivete of children but with the will and desire to grow up. So much there for an author to work with.
I also love writing about teenagers, particularly females, because I have the perfect specimen living in my house. It makes research a breeze.
My daughter wants so badly to be grown up, to be trusted and looked at in a different way than her two sisters, who are 10 and almost 7. Yet, she doesn't want to know too much, especially about the birds and the bees (although she'd die to know I called it that).
A recent exchange with my teenager:Preteen daughter: I want to teach you to play this Sims Life game.
Me/Mom: What's it about?
Preteen daughter: You get to run your own life.
Me/Mom: I do that every day.
Preteen daughter: Yeah, but you get to make people.
Me/Mom: I already did that, too.
My daughter started gagging. She ran from the room telling me I was gross.
Such a contradiction... she loves this game because she can manipulate the life of her made-up character, but she doesn't want to know where babies come from. Too funny.
I'm calling this Part One, because I want to further explore this topic. But I had to share this story first.
Do you study people to write your characters?
March 18, 2012
Will to Write: ROW80 and #writemotivation Updates
I don't need to be encouraged to write, but I do need to be encouraged to write consistently. I worry sometimes that I conditioned myself to write a novel in ten years (that's how long
Depression Cookies
took from idea to publication). When the desire to write hit, I went with it.
Mom and I want to publish our Depression Cookies follow up by the end of the year. Yesterday I particpated in the Lucky 7 Meme and posted a teaser (only 7 lines) of our WIP. Check it out here.
I copied and pasted the sneak peak directly from our manuscript and proceeded to edit it for an hour. No lie. Then I edited the whole chapter. Couldn't help myself.
Have you seen the commercial below where the guy is beating himself up so he won't touch the temperature on his thermostat? That's how I feel everytime I go near my WIP.
Because Mom and I exchange chapters, I always read my last chapter and hers before I start writing. It's so hard not to edit, but it takes up such valuable time. Going forward, I'm going to take notes of things I fear I'll forget (a new character, a plot point I want to address), so I can avoid going back and reading.
To meet our end-of-year deadline, I'm going to have to write. All the editing in the world won't get me to the finish.
Which is why I'm grateful for my writing community. They keep me motivated and feeling accountable.
*****
First, A Round of Words in 80 Days (ROW80). Round 1 finishes up this week, and I want to rock it to the finish. My goal is to write a chapter before the final Round 1 update on Wednesday.
ROW80 Update
Writing: Lots of time, little words. But that's all about to change. I will write a chapter by Wednesday. To meet that goal, I plan to hit a #teamsprinty #row80 wordsprint.
Editing: Not on my WIP, but I am in the final editing phases of a poetry collection and then back to some short story editing and a paranormal piece I've fallen in love with. I can't wait to see that one published!
Social Media: Back to a solid B performance on social media. If I haven't caught up with you, I will.
Reading: Just finishing up one and hope to finish two more this week.
Diet & Exercise: When the sugar train rolls in, it doesn't like to leave. Damn that Hot sign at the Krispy Kreme tonight. I'll give myself a D on Diet and a B on Exercise. Hope to do better this week.
I'm rooting for my fellow ROW80 participants. Rock it to the end! And congratulations to Kait Nolan. Even though Divergent came out on top, Red did amazingly well. So proud of you! (Kait's Red was in the running for DABWAHA - a play on the NCAA tournament: "64 books. 1 champion.")
*****
Like ROW80, #writemotivation supports writers. This is my first time joining K.T. Hanna's challenge. From her site: Please remember: This isn't a competition – it's about setting yourself realistic goals and having people who understand where you're coming from cheer you along. The only competition is with yourself.
My #writemotivation Update
1. Work on my WIP for an hour every day, except Sunday.
I worked on my WIP, planning and editing, but did take off both Saturday and Sunday.
2. Do client editing work an hour a day, except Sunday.
Again, I took off both Saturday and Sunday. I was feeling, well, overcooked. I needed to step away for the weekend. I'm looking forward to getting back to it tomorrow.
3. Read and review a book every 10 days, minimum.
Finished a book today, but need to write the review (due to be posted Thursday, 3/22). I hope to read two more books this week.
I'm looking forward to getting around to some #writemotivation blogs this week.
Mom and I want to publish our Depression Cookies follow up by the end of the year. Yesterday I particpated in the Lucky 7 Meme and posted a teaser (only 7 lines) of our WIP. Check it out here.
I copied and pasted the sneak peak directly from our manuscript and proceeded to edit it for an hour. No lie. Then I edited the whole chapter. Couldn't help myself.
Have you seen the commercial below where the guy is beating himself up so he won't touch the temperature on his thermostat? That's how I feel everytime I go near my WIP.
Because Mom and I exchange chapters, I always read my last chapter and hers before I start writing. It's so hard not to edit, but it takes up such valuable time. Going forward, I'm going to take notes of things I fear I'll forget (a new character, a plot point I want to address), so I can avoid going back and reading.
To meet our end-of-year deadline, I'm going to have to write. All the editing in the world won't get me to the finish.
Which is why I'm grateful for my writing community. They keep me motivated and feeling accountable.
*****
First, A Round of Words in 80 Days (ROW80). Round 1 finishes up this week, and I want to rock it to the finish. My goal is to write a chapter before the final Round 1 update on Wednesday.
ROW80 Update
Writing: Lots of time, little words. But that's all about to change. I will write a chapter by Wednesday. To meet that goal, I plan to hit a #teamsprinty #row80 wordsprint.
Editing: Not on my WIP, but I am in the final editing phases of a poetry collection and then back to some short story editing and a paranormal piece I've fallen in love with. I can't wait to see that one published!
Social Media: Back to a solid B performance on social media. If I haven't caught up with you, I will.
Reading: Just finishing up one and hope to finish two more this week.
Diet & Exercise: When the sugar train rolls in, it doesn't like to leave. Damn that Hot sign at the Krispy Kreme tonight. I'll give myself a D on Diet and a B on Exercise. Hope to do better this week.
I'm rooting for my fellow ROW80 participants. Rock it to the end! And congratulations to Kait Nolan. Even though Divergent came out on top, Red did amazingly well. So proud of you! (Kait's Red was in the running for DABWAHA - a play on the NCAA tournament: "64 books. 1 champion.")
*****
Like ROW80, #writemotivation supports writers. This is my first time joining K.T. Hanna's challenge. From her site: Please remember: This isn't a competition – it's about setting yourself realistic goals and having people who understand where you're coming from cheer you along. The only competition is with yourself.
My #writemotivation Update
1. Work on my WIP for an hour every day, except Sunday.
I worked on my WIP, planning and editing, but did take off both Saturday and Sunday.
2. Do client editing work an hour a day, except Sunday.
Again, I took off both Saturday and Sunday. I was feeling, well, overcooked. I needed to step away for the weekend. I'm looking forward to getting back to it tomorrow.
3. Read and review a book every 10 days, minimum.
Finished a book today, but need to write the review (due to be posted Thursday, 3/22). I hope to read two more books this week.
I'm looking forward to getting around to some #writemotivation blogs this week.
March 17, 2012
Celebrating St. Patty's by Sharing Some WIP
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
I saw the Lucky 7 Meme on the lovely Nadja Notariani's blog, and decided to tag myself and share.
The rules: 1. Go to page 77 of your current MS/WIP
2. Go to line 7
3. Copy down the next 7 lines, sentences, or paragraphs, and post them as they're written.
4. Tag 7 authors
From our follow-up to Depression Cookies , a scene from the teenager's perspective (Krista). Krista and her friend, Alex, have set up a dinner to manipulate their parents (or in Alex's case, her guardian/grandmother). Mischief is afoot.
Wasit knife and spoon on one side or knife and fork? I wanted everything perfect.Just as I laid down a knife-fork pair, the doorbell rang. Utensils went inrandom spots as I rushed to answer the door.
"Hello,Ms. Cantrell. So glad to see you," I said as I hugged her. "Hey, Alex." She was nervous, so I gave her my best stick-to-the-plan look.
"Youknow you can call me Nana, sweetie," Ruby said. She was elegant and fragile, like a china doll high up on display, with a head fullof white hair. I wondered what she was like at my age.
It's 7 lines (okay, 8, but I wanted to finish the sentence). Seven paragraphs would probably be a better representation. But I want to share pieces here and there to motivate myself to finish the darn thing!
I hope you enjoyed the glimpse. If you are reading this and interested in sharing from your WIP, consider yourself tagged. Then share the link to your Lucky 7 Meme in the comments so I can check it out.
I saw the Lucky 7 Meme on the lovely Nadja Notariani's blog, and decided to tag myself and share.
The rules: 1. Go to page 77 of your current MS/WIP
2. Go to line 7
3. Copy down the next 7 lines, sentences, or paragraphs, and post them as they're written.
4. Tag 7 authors
From our follow-up to Depression Cookies , a scene from the teenager's perspective (Krista). Krista and her friend, Alex, have set up a dinner to manipulate their parents (or in Alex's case, her guardian/grandmother). Mischief is afoot.
Wasit knife and spoon on one side or knife and fork? I wanted everything perfect.Just as I laid down a knife-fork pair, the doorbell rang. Utensils went inrandom spots as I rushed to answer the door.
"Hello,Ms. Cantrell. So glad to see you," I said as I hugged her. "Hey, Alex." She was nervous, so I gave her my best stick-to-the-plan look.
"Youknow you can call me Nana, sweetie," Ruby said. She was elegant and fragile, like a china doll high up on display, with a head fullof white hair. I wondered what she was like at my age.
It's 7 lines (okay, 8, but I wanted to finish the sentence). Seven paragraphs would probably be a better representation. But I want to share pieces here and there to motivate myself to finish the darn thing!
I hope you enjoyed the glimpse. If you are reading this and interested in sharing from your WIP, consider yourself tagged. Then share the link to your Lucky 7 Meme in the comments so I can check it out.
March 16, 2012
Don't Procrastinate: Everything is Right Today!
Today, and today only, everything you do is right. Yes, you heard me correctly. Today only, March 16, you enjoy the grand privileges of Everything You Do is Right Day. Every. Single. Thing.
I don't want you to waste much more time reading this post, because I want you to embrace all the things you are afraid of doing. No fear today.
"They" (and I've never understood who they are) wouldn't name a day without careful consideration.
If the fear of being wrong was gone, as it is today, what would you do?
MY PLANS
Write, write, write. The worry of writing the next best novel goes out the window today. All will be right when I write. No editing worries. Perfection.
Talk to my teenager. I do this everyday, but I do it cautiously. Even though I'm normally right in this case anyway, knowing I'll be right will make it all the better. As long as she doesn't know that she's right too, we should be okay.
Or, maybe we could just drop the "right" and have a pleasant conversation. Now, there's a concept.
Write my Congressman. Not so much to tell them I'm right, but to ask them to put aside politics and do what is right. Follow their hearts and true opinions versus doing what they think will buy them a future in government or pay back those they owe.
Talk sports. I love sports, always have, but men tend to have an opinion on women who "think" they know sports. Today, I would chat them all up without the fear I'd get one word wrong and prove them right. Speaking of sports, I'm ALL about March Madness. I'm a University of Kentucky graduate. Go CATS!
Cook. I'm not the worst cook ever, but I'd use this day to be a better cook and, more importantly, to get my family to agree on one meal.
Pick an amazing outfit. My style is non-existent. I have my kids' styles down much better than my own. Today, I would walk into a store and buy that perfect outfit. I'm sure there are no budgets on Everything You Do is Right Day!
I'm sure there are more, but I need to put this day to good use!
I don't want you to waste much more time reading this post, because I want you to embrace all the things you are afraid of doing. No fear today. "They" (and I've never understood who they are) wouldn't name a day without careful consideration.
If the fear of being wrong was gone, as it is today, what would you do?
MY PLANS
Write, write, write. The worry of writing the next best novel goes out the window today. All will be right when I write. No editing worries. Perfection.
Talk to my teenager. I do this everyday, but I do it cautiously. Even though I'm normally right in this case anyway, knowing I'll be right will make it all the better. As long as she doesn't know that she's right too, we should be okay.
Or, maybe we could just drop the "right" and have a pleasant conversation. Now, there's a concept.
Write my Congressman. Not so much to tell them I'm right, but to ask them to put aside politics and do what is right. Follow their hearts and true opinions versus doing what they think will buy them a future in government or pay back those they owe.
Talk sports. I love sports, always have, but men tend to have an opinion on women who "think" they know sports. Today, I would chat them all up without the fear I'd get one word wrong and prove them right. Speaking of sports, I'm ALL about March Madness. I'm a University of Kentucky graduate. Go CATS!
Cook. I'm not the worst cook ever, but I'd use this day to be a better cook and, more importantly, to get my family to agree on one meal.
Pick an amazing outfit. My style is non-existent. I have my kids' styles down much better than my own. Today, I would walk into a store and buy that perfect outfit. I'm sure there are no budgets on Everything You Do is Right Day!
I'm sure there are more, but I need to put this day to good use!
March 15, 2012
Wondering How to Vote in 2012: I say VOTE RED (Kait Nolan)
2012 is a big year for voting. The speeches have just begun and the fighting will only intensify leading up to November.
So use your power to vote for a worthy individual who gives back so much to the writing and reading community... VOTE RED! Today, March 15th, until 12:00pm CST, you can vote for Kait Nolan's Red. Head over to the DABWAHA site to vote. Say it loud, say it proud.
Don't know Kait Nolan?
You are missing out. Kait is the fearless leader of A Round of Words in 80 Days. Some details about ROW80: We are all different and we all have different demands on our time. Why should we all have the same goal? The simple answer is that we shouldn't. If you want to be a writer, then you have to be able to roll with the punches and adapt to your changing circumstances. If that means changing your goals when your life blows up, so be it. ROW80 is the challenge that champions the marriage of writing and real life.
Don't know about Red?
From Amazon: Once upon a time, Red Riding Hood fell in love with the wolf. It ended badly...
Elodie Rose has a secret. Any day, she'll become a wolf and succumb to the violence that's cursed her family for centuries. For seventeen years she's hidden who and what she is. But now someone knows the truth and is determined to exterminate her family line. Living on borrowed time in the midst of this dangerous game of hide and seek, the last thing Elodie needs is to do is fall in love. But Sawyer is determined to protect her, and the brooding, angry boy is more than what he seems. Can they outsmart a madman? And if they survive, will they find a way to beat the curse for good?
Good luck #TeamKait!
I have a copy of Red, and I can't wait to sink my teeth into it.
So use your power to vote for a worthy individual who gives back so much to the writing and reading community... VOTE RED! Today, March 15th, until 12:00pm CST, you can vote for Kait Nolan's Red. Head over to the DABWAHA site to vote. Say it loud, say it proud.
Don't know Kait Nolan?
You are missing out. Kait is the fearless leader of A Round of Words in 80 Days. Some details about ROW80: We are all different and we all have different demands on our time. Why should we all have the same goal? The simple answer is that we shouldn't. If you want to be a writer, then you have to be able to roll with the punches and adapt to your changing circumstances. If that means changing your goals when your life blows up, so be it. ROW80 is the challenge that champions the marriage of writing and real life.
Don't know about Red?
From Amazon: Once upon a time, Red Riding Hood fell in love with the wolf. It ended badly... Elodie Rose has a secret. Any day, she'll become a wolf and succumb to the violence that's cursed her family for centuries. For seventeen years she's hidden who and what she is. But now someone knows the truth and is determined to exterminate her family line. Living on borrowed time in the midst of this dangerous game of hide and seek, the last thing Elodie needs is to do is fall in love. But Sawyer is determined to protect her, and the brooding, angry boy is more than what he seems. Can they outsmart a madman? And if they survive, will they find a way to beat the curse for good?
Good luck #TeamKait!
I have a copy of Red, and I can't wait to sink my teeth into it.
March 14, 2012
Deadlines: ROW80 Check In
"I am one of those people who thrive on deadlines, nothing brings on inspiration more readily than desperation." Harry Shearer
Truer words...
I am a juggler, and the only way I've found to successfully juggle multiple commitments is to watch the ball that's on fire the closest. I get through each day by doing the thing that has to be done first. On good days, I have time for other things, but any day where nothing is late is successful.
SourceThe problem (okay, there are many problems with this "putting fires out" approach, but I'm trying to focus here)... I don't have writing deadlines in my calendar. I have general goals and mental deadlines. But I need the my-phone-is-beeping-at-me kind of deadline in place.
Note: Please tell me I'm not the only person on the planet who has my phone ding me for everything so I can't possibly forget! And not just appointments, things like "Call X" or "No more milk."
I have started using a separate calendar for my writing, editing, reviewing, blogging... all better known as my writing business calendar. My WIP is going to start having the same deadlines as other projects. Chapter X done by date X. I think it will motivate me, especially if I highlight it in some obscene neon highlighter color (and enter into my phone calendar for some of the beeping love).
Wish me luck!
It's Wednesday, time for my A Round of Words in 80 Days Update (yes, a deadline!):
Writing: Lots of it. Nada on my WIP. *sigh*
Editing: The reason I didn't write on my WIP, editing deadlines. The positive: done and sent. Guess what's on the calendar for tomorrow and Friday? You guessed it, writing! I'm hoping to make up for missing Monday and Tuesday with pressing deadlines.
Social Media: My many apologies. I graded myself a C on Sunday, and I'm now an F. A pure social media failure. Another deadline: fulfill my sponsor duties for Sunday's posts and today's by Friday. It's highlighted in my calendar, so pressure and guilt are in place.
Reading: I've been on a wonderful streak of good books lately. I love when that happens. I just finished Bookended by Beauty Queens (reviewed here).
Diet & Exercise: Pulling back on the collapsed diet plans and continuing my half marathon training.
Only one more week of Round 1! Wishing everyone all the best!
Truer words...
I am a juggler, and the only way I've found to successfully juggle multiple commitments is to watch the ball that's on fire the closest. I get through each day by doing the thing that has to be done first. On good days, I have time for other things, but any day where nothing is late is successful.
SourceThe problem (okay, there are many problems with this "putting fires out" approach, but I'm trying to focus here)... I don't have writing deadlines in my calendar. I have general goals and mental deadlines. But I need the my-phone-is-beeping-at-me kind of deadline in place. Note: Please tell me I'm not the only person on the planet who has my phone ding me for everything so I can't possibly forget! And not just appointments, things like "Call X" or "No more milk."
I have started using a separate calendar for my writing, editing, reviewing, blogging... all better known as my writing business calendar. My WIP is going to start having the same deadlines as other projects. Chapter X done by date X. I think it will motivate me, especially if I highlight it in some obscene neon highlighter color (and enter into my phone calendar for some of the beeping love).
Wish me luck!
It's Wednesday, time for my A Round of Words in 80 Days Update (yes, a deadline!):
Writing: Lots of it. Nada on my WIP. *sigh*
Editing: The reason I didn't write on my WIP, editing deadlines. The positive: done and sent. Guess what's on the calendar for tomorrow and Friday? You guessed it, writing! I'm hoping to make up for missing Monday and Tuesday with pressing deadlines.
Social Media: My many apologies. I graded myself a C on Sunday, and I'm now an F. A pure social media failure. Another deadline: fulfill my sponsor duties for Sunday's posts and today's by Friday. It's highlighted in my calendar, so pressure and guilt are in place.
Reading: I've been on a wonderful streak of good books lately. I love when that happens. I just finished Bookended by Beauty Queens (reviewed here).
Diet & Exercise: Pulling back on the collapsed diet plans and continuing my half marathon training.
Only one more week of Round 1! Wishing everyone all the best!
March 13, 2012
Truth is in the Mind of the Beholder
Yesterday's BlogHer NaBloPoMo prompt intrigued me: Would you rather always know the truth or remain blissfully ignorant sometimes?
My thick skin can handle anything, so of course I would prefer to know everything. Please tell me every time I do something you don't like, every time I wear something that makes me unattractive, and every time I write something you think is awful. Oh, and a special request of my three daughters... please, oh please, tell me every single time you are upset because I made you clean your room, brush your teeth, or--God forbid--take a shower.
Life is only worth living if you know every detail about all subjects.
Alright, I'll let you all off the hook. I'm lying.
The problem with the truth... it's in the mind of the beholder. What is truth? I know way too many people who lie and have the ability to convince everyone around them, and even themselves, that it's the truth. That's not the kind of truth I need in my life.
I love my children more than my own life, but I hear way too many of their truths lately!
However, as much as I'd like to embrace the idea of blissful ignorance, it's only blissful if nobody gets hurt. As a mother, it's irresponsible for me to close my eyes and pretend not to see the truths that affect my children.
And here's some advice... if you don't prefer the truth, an honest raw opinion, please don't ask me. Don't put in the position to lie. We are all human, we lie from time to time. But I truly try not to, so please don't make me weigh lying with being kind or understanding. It makes me conflicted and, quite frankly, cranky. If you are questioning how you look in the dress, for example, you probably have your answer.
One last thought... as a writer, I prefer truth. Being blissfully unaware doesn't do much for my ability to build characters people can relate to.
The tougher question: would you rather always know the truth or always be blissfully unaware?
Actually, that one's easier. If it's always... give me truth!
My thick skin can handle anything, so of course I would prefer to know everything. Please tell me every time I do something you don't like, every time I wear something that makes me unattractive, and every time I write something you think is awful. Oh, and a special request of my three daughters... please, oh please, tell me every single time you are upset because I made you clean your room, brush your teeth, or--God forbid--take a shower.
Life is only worth living if you know every detail about all subjects.
Alright, I'll let you all off the hook. I'm lying.
The problem with the truth... it's in the mind of the beholder. What is truth? I know way too many people who lie and have the ability to convince everyone around them, and even themselves, that it's the truth. That's not the kind of truth I need in my life.
I love my children more than my own life, but I hear way too many of their truths lately!However, as much as I'd like to embrace the idea of blissful ignorance, it's only blissful if nobody gets hurt. As a mother, it's irresponsible for me to close my eyes and pretend not to see the truths that affect my children.
And here's some advice... if you don't prefer the truth, an honest raw opinion, please don't ask me. Don't put in the position to lie. We are all human, we lie from time to time. But I truly try not to, so please don't make me weigh lying with being kind or understanding. It makes me conflicted and, quite frankly, cranky. If you are questioning how you look in the dress, for example, you probably have your answer.
One last thought... as a writer, I prefer truth. Being blissfully unaware doesn't do much for my ability to build characters people can relate to.
The tougher question: would you rather always know the truth or always be blissfully unaware?
Actually, that one's easier. If it's always... give me truth!
March 12, 2012
Thoughts on Writing and World Peace
It's a quick post today. Yesterday, I was quite euphoric after completing my 8K run (doing my personal best) and enjoying a beautiful, sunny day watching the St. Patrick's Day parade in Washington, DC.
My girls at yesterday's
St. Patty's Day parade in DC
So what do I wake up with this morning?
A freaking head cold. Enough about world peace, my wish is to ban sickness from the world. We'd all get along better if we were all healthy and functioning at our best. I know, probably not, but it's a nice thought, isn't it?
Today, I am featured on WriteWriteWrite. I was first introduced to K.S. Brooks through the Maryland Writers' Association. She's an award-winning novelist, photographer, and poet and she still manages to give so much back to the writing community. Check out my interview here.
A brief excerpt:
What is your favorite part of being a writer?
Finding the right words. So many times I know what I want to say, can feel it with every fiber of my being, but I need the words to reflect that intensity. When I find the right ones, it's a wonderful feeling.
In addition to all of the above, K.S. is also the Co-Administrator for Indies Unlimited, a site "celebrating independent authors." Please take some time to check it out. For my writer friends, specifically check out their Submissions Page.
I hope everyone is having a fabulous Monday!
My girls at yesterday'sSt. Patty's Day parade in DC
So what do I wake up with this morning?
A freaking head cold. Enough about world peace, my wish is to ban sickness from the world. We'd all get along better if we were all healthy and functioning at our best. I know, probably not, but it's a nice thought, isn't it?
Today, I am featured on WriteWriteWrite. I was first introduced to K.S. Brooks through the Maryland Writers' Association. She's an award-winning novelist, photographer, and poet and she still manages to give so much back to the writing community. Check out my interview here.
A brief excerpt:
What is your favorite part of being a writer?
Finding the right words. So many times I know what I want to say, can feel it with every fiber of my being, but I need the words to reflect that intensity. When I find the right ones, it's a wonderful feeling.
In addition to all of the above, K.S. is also the Co-Administrator for Indies Unlimited, a site "celebrating independent authors." Please take some time to check it out. For my writer friends, specifically check out their Submissions Page.
I hope everyone is having a fabulous Monday!
March 11, 2012
Heading to the Finish: ROW80 (plus #writemotivation)
Pardon my constant writing as a race analogy. Blame my half marathon training, but I see such a connection between the two. Today, I ran an 8K in DC. It was a gorgeous day, and I have been training. But no matter how much I train, there is some point during a race that I want to quit.
Ready to Run... St. Patrick's Day 8KToday I didn't. I ran the whole way, not allowing any excuse to sideline me. Uphill. You can't stop me. Pain in a part of my body I don't recognize. You can't stop me. It was a wonderful feeling. Now, I need to apply that mental focus to writing (and hope for all the stars to align as they did today).
Before the tempting world of social media and friendly writers was opened up to me, I faced down my writing pains. But now, there are so many good excuses to avoid it when it gets hard. I'm building my author platform, I tell myself. While an author platform is certainly important, it's meant to uplift your writing---not take the place of it.
Julie Glover wrote an excellent post this week: I Know I Should Follow Your Blog But . . . A brief excerpt: "I have learned so much in the past year from writer groups, conferences, craft books, and blogs. I've discovered excellent tools and software for plotting and writing. Thankfully, this book won't have 23 drafts to get it right. I know something about an author's platform. I have researched publishing options and agents. My knowledge base is better now. All good stuff. But I am writing far fewer hours than when it was lonely me and my laptop.
I agree. Now I just need to apply something else I've learned from running. If you don't run, and run often, you really won't get better. It won't matter how much research you do about running plans, you have to hit the pavement. Same is true for writing.
I've been better about putting writing first. It's a step in the right direction. I just have to continue my writer training and not give up, or let myself be sidelined by other activites.
Now for my A Round of Words in 80 Days (ROW80) update...
Writing: Every single day. Not all of it was on my WIP, but I did work on it every day (except today - today was family day!) for more than an hour. I'm also keeping note cards on my other piece.
Blogging: Every day but Saturday. I like taking a weekend day off. I posted a flash fiction piece on Friday that I'm quite proud of, and I reviewed Jessican Therrien's Oppression on Mom in Love with Fiction.
Editing: In a wonderful groove, and reading some wonderful material. Few things make me as happy as seeing a writer get it right.
Social Media: If I was grading myself, I'd give it a C. I don't like Cs. But something had to give. I owe people some comments, and I have a lot of flash fiction reading to do. Please accept my apologies. I'll get around. Tomorrow is catch up day. (Let's hope the universe didn't just hear me say that!)
Diet & Exercise: Exercise. Check. Diet. Well, let's hope the exercise is making up for it somewhat.
I hope my ROW80 friends are heading into the finish strong! Only 11 more days to go in this round.
Now my #writemotivation update (which is also my "test mile" for ROW80):
1. Work on my WIP for an hour every day, except Sunday. --- DONE+
2. Do client editing work an hour a day, except Sunday. --- DONE + Sunday
3. Read and review a book every 10 days, minimum. --- DONE
I am also behind in checking out my fellow #writemotivation writers. I look forward to catching up!
Ready to Run... St. Patrick's Day 8KToday I didn't. I ran the whole way, not allowing any excuse to sideline me. Uphill. You can't stop me. Pain in a part of my body I don't recognize. You can't stop me. It was a wonderful feeling. Now, I need to apply that mental focus to writing (and hope for all the stars to align as they did today).Before the tempting world of social media and friendly writers was opened up to me, I faced down my writing pains. But now, there are so many good excuses to avoid it when it gets hard. I'm building my author platform, I tell myself. While an author platform is certainly important, it's meant to uplift your writing---not take the place of it.
Julie Glover wrote an excellent post this week: I Know I Should Follow Your Blog But . . . A brief excerpt: "I have learned so much in the past year from writer groups, conferences, craft books, and blogs. I've discovered excellent tools and software for plotting and writing. Thankfully, this book won't have 23 drafts to get it right. I know something about an author's platform. I have researched publishing options and agents. My knowledge base is better now. All good stuff. But I am writing far fewer hours than when it was lonely me and my laptop.
I agree. Now I just need to apply something else I've learned from running. If you don't run, and run often, you really won't get better. It won't matter how much research you do about running plans, you have to hit the pavement. Same is true for writing.
I've been better about putting writing first. It's a step in the right direction. I just have to continue my writer training and not give up, or let myself be sidelined by other activites.
Now for my A Round of Words in 80 Days (ROW80) update...
Writing: Every single day. Not all of it was on my WIP, but I did work on it every day (except today - today was family day!) for more than an hour. I'm also keeping note cards on my other piece.
Blogging: Every day but Saturday. I like taking a weekend day off. I posted a flash fiction piece on Friday that I'm quite proud of, and I reviewed Jessican Therrien's Oppression on Mom in Love with Fiction.
Editing: In a wonderful groove, and reading some wonderful material. Few things make me as happy as seeing a writer get it right.
Social Media: If I was grading myself, I'd give it a C. I don't like Cs. But something had to give. I owe people some comments, and I have a lot of flash fiction reading to do. Please accept my apologies. I'll get around. Tomorrow is catch up day. (Let's hope the universe didn't just hear me say that!)
Diet & Exercise: Exercise. Check. Diet. Well, let's hope the exercise is making up for it somewhat.
I hope my ROW80 friends are heading into the finish strong! Only 11 more days to go in this round.
Now my #writemotivation update (which is also my "test mile" for ROW80):
1. Work on my WIP for an hour every day, except Sunday. --- DONE+
2. Do client editing work an hour a day, except Sunday. --- DONE + Sunday
3. Read and review a book every 10 days, minimum. --- DONE
I am also behind in checking out my fellow #writemotivation writers. I look forward to catching up!
March 9, 2012
Breaking Out: The Latest Campaign Challenge
It's time for another Writers' Platform-Building Campaign challenge, and Rachael Harrie has issued quite the challenge this week. Fromher website:
I'vebeen asked for a more difficult Challenge this time, while at the same time Iknow many of you would prefer not to be *too* challenged. So I've given you arange of different activities you could do below, all based on the sameprompts, and it's up to you whether you do one or some or allof them. I've determined the judging criteria in advance too, so it will enablethe judge to assess all your entries equally no matter what you decide to do. Ican't wait to see what you come up with!
Second Campaigner Challenge (of Fourth Campaign)
Prompt 3:
From Rach Writes
Do one or more of the following… I'veonly included the one I did.
* Write a poem/flash fiction piece (in less than 200 words) about the water pear *without* using the words "pear", "spoon", or "droplet". --- CHECK!
For added difficulty/challenge:
* Write in a genre that is not your own --- CHECK!
*****
Breaking Out
Years of practice wereabout to pay off. She trembled with anticipation as she focused her energy. ToHell with what her parents thought, she knew she could do it. What was thepoint of countless hours of studying spells if she never used magic?
Yesterday was hereighteenth birthday. She received many gifts, but not the one thing she wantedmost—independence. She was sick of living in her parents' shadows, confined bytheir rules. They may have saved Melpomene before, but the Elders were going tohave to trust the next generation sooner or later.
She'd show them. Nobody haddared bring forth a new dragon in a hundred years; the last attempt had beendisastrous.
Centering herself, she feltpower course through her body. She was ready. Using her grandmother's antiquewand and the ripened fruit from the counter, she began to spin the dragon'segg.
From nature's sweet A dragon we'll complete
Heat spread through her andsweat dripped down her spine. So close, she kept pushing. Spinning, spinning,spinning. As the darkness took over, she saw a green arm pop out. A smilespread across her face as she slipped away.
*****
I am not too proud to admitit… that was hard! And I only did one of the options. I'm looking forward tovisiting the other entries (I never look until I've written my own, because Idon't want to be influenced) and hope you will, too.
If you like my piece,consider voting for me (#106) here. I'dalso appreciate feedback in the comments. Thanks.
I'vebeen asked for a more difficult Challenge this time, while at the same time Iknow many of you would prefer not to be *too* challenged. So I've given you arange of different activities you could do below, all based on the sameprompts, and it's up to you whether you do one or some or allof them. I've determined the judging criteria in advance too, so it will enablethe judge to assess all your entries equally no matter what you decide to do. Ican't wait to see what you come up with!
Second Campaigner Challenge (of Fourth Campaign)
Prompt 3:
From Rach Writes
Do one or more of the following… I'veonly included the one I did.
* Write a poem/flash fiction piece (in less than 200 words) about the water pear *without* using the words "pear", "spoon", or "droplet". --- CHECK!
For added difficulty/challenge:
* Write in a genre that is not your own --- CHECK!
*****
Breaking Out
Years of practice wereabout to pay off. She trembled with anticipation as she focused her energy. ToHell with what her parents thought, she knew she could do it. What was thepoint of countless hours of studying spells if she never used magic?
Yesterday was hereighteenth birthday. She received many gifts, but not the one thing she wantedmost—independence. She was sick of living in her parents' shadows, confined bytheir rules. They may have saved Melpomene before, but the Elders were going tohave to trust the next generation sooner or later.
She'd show them. Nobody haddared bring forth a new dragon in a hundred years; the last attempt had beendisastrous.
Centering herself, she feltpower course through her body. She was ready. Using her grandmother's antiquewand and the ripened fruit from the counter, she began to spin the dragon'segg.
From nature's sweet A dragon we'll complete
Heat spread through her andsweat dripped down her spine. So close, she kept pushing. Spinning, spinning,spinning. As the darkness took over, she saw a green arm pop out. A smilespread across her face as she slipped away.
*****
I am not too proud to admitit… that was hard! And I only did one of the options. I'm looking forward tovisiting the other entries (I never look until I've written my own, because Idon't want to be influenced) and hope you will, too.
If you like my piece,consider voting for me (#106) here. I'dalso appreciate feedback in the comments. Thanks.
