Emily March Fans discussion
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Thank you, Linda. xo In two days, mamma bear will find her pointy hat and broomstick and ride into town ready to rumble. LOL
Hugs,
P
Hugs,
P
Paula wrote: "Thank you, Linda. xo In two days, mamma bear will find her pointy hat and broomstick and ride into town ready to rumble. LOLHugs,
P"
lol... Go get him !!!!!
Hi Girls,I did the 23 and me thing , I would never have guessed that I had .04 % West African and only .02 % American Indian ,since my Great Grandmother was a full blooded Indian . I am 99.4 % Scottish ,Irish & English. Strange how they can find out so much just from spit!
Wolf and I went for our yearly medical exams today , all went well, except they didn't tells us we had to do a fasting blood test, so we have to go back tomorrow morning for the blood letting lol. It was funny when we were filling out the forms that ask what race you are I had to laugh because I had just gotten the DNA results this morning , I am a little of almost everything lol. Since I have to get up early and not eat , I am making Wolf take me to the Mountie Moose Bakery for a donut and lathe after , I don't do that very often. Love, Lola
Hello Ladies,Hope everyone is doing well. I am, I don't know how I am. My brother called a little while ago and said the nurse is projecting that my mom may not last to the end of the week. I thought it might be easier because I know it is coming, but it's not. My heart just aches. I want to be there for my dad. I have this stupid L&I thing to deal with and they want me to see the doctor every 30 days and that will be the 15th. I still don't have an appointment so I don't know what will happen there. I don't really care at this point. I just want to go to my parents and be there for them. I will have to take the Amtrak because Dave goes back to work tomorrow and we still just have the one car. It will take about 13 hours but I enjoy riding the train so it will be fine. The conductor and stewards come around regularly so I don't think it will be a problem with the PTSD. Wish I had better news to share but I am kind of short on that tonight. Take care and hug the ones you love. Peace be with you. Linda
Linda, Keeping you and your family in my prayers. Know that you will miss her when it happens but she will not hurt. Praying that you will have safe travels.
Paula,
Praying that everything went well for your weekend and with t he lawyer for your daughter.
Lola,
It is interesting to see how you are related to the world.
Looking forward to our nest read.
Just keeping busy here and trying to stay dry. After today, Tuesday, June 6 we should have some sun. Dad's garden has not had to be watered for 3 weeks.
I have a end date for my divorce. Our court date is Nov 20th at 1:30pm. Kind of weird to have a final date for a 17 yr marriage.Linda, I am so sorry for your family. Safe Travels!
I am headed to Cinni thursday for a readers retreat.
Brandi
Hi, Everyone -- another wild week in the group, with so much going on!
Lola -- Ray & I have thought about doing 23 & me, and I'm looking forward to it. I believe I may be a tiny bit French and a whole lot of English, Scottish, & Irish, but my mom and her father had Mediterranean "olive" skin tones, so it will be interesting to see where that comes from.
Linda -- I'm so sorry about your mom. Expected or not, the pain is the same. Dad's passing was expected, but it happened suddenly -
it was a blood clot - before we could get him home with hospice. Mom's passing was completely unexpected, even though she was 90 and frail. I think mom's was hardest for me because I felt like an orphan. My heart goes out to you.
Brandi -- I've been through a divorce and it's weird at any stage, no matter who initiates the separation. Sarah's father and I had been married 7 years when we divorced, and our anniversary still lingers with me every year. My daughter isn't married, so her separation involves custody proceedings. She will have full physical custody. We engaged an attorney today -- the same one that represented us 29 years ago. He was wonderful with her and we feel good knowing that she has such an experienced family law attorney.
Plan to do something just for you the day after, or the evening after, your divorce is final, even if it's just a bubble bath and a glass of wine, a manicure, or some other treat. It helps.
Group, I'm going to be in Virginia Beach until June 16th. It's a mess here. Sarah has a place to live -- with close family friends -- but she has very little space to work with, and very limited room for furniture of her own. Her child support prospects are modest at best, because baby-daddy doesn't work consistently. We are covering her attorney fees and a host of other things, like car repairs, that she's been unable to afford as a full-time mom. Layla will go to Kindergarten next year, and she will be able to resume work in photography; she also wants to become a paralegal so we are looking into that. It's so emotional, and exhausting for all of us that I can't think of much of anything else, least of all my book.
I got a lot of feedback and learned a lot at the writing retreat - but I can't process it all at the moment. I'm reasonably sure, though, that I won't be able to release my book until late this year, at best. My part-time paid job as an independent contractor is tough because I'm getting behind, but again, family FIRST and always. I'd give just about anything to be able to move here, but I can't find any way to make it work right now. That breaks my heart, honestly. I could be so much more helpful than I can be at 3000 miles away. I can only trust that time will take care of things.
I'll check in again soon. Hugs to all.
Paula
Lola -- Ray & I have thought about doing 23 & me, and I'm looking forward to it. I believe I may be a tiny bit French and a whole lot of English, Scottish, & Irish, but my mom and her father had Mediterranean "olive" skin tones, so it will be interesting to see where that comes from.
Linda -- I'm so sorry about your mom. Expected or not, the pain is the same. Dad's passing was expected, but it happened suddenly -
it was a blood clot - before we could get him home with hospice. Mom's passing was completely unexpected, even though she was 90 and frail. I think mom's was hardest for me because I felt like an orphan. My heart goes out to you.
Brandi -- I've been through a divorce and it's weird at any stage, no matter who initiates the separation. Sarah's father and I had been married 7 years when we divorced, and our anniversary still lingers with me every year. My daughter isn't married, so her separation involves custody proceedings. She will have full physical custody. We engaged an attorney today -- the same one that represented us 29 years ago. He was wonderful with her and we feel good knowing that she has such an experienced family law attorney.
Plan to do something just for you the day after, or the evening after, your divorce is final, even if it's just a bubble bath and a glass of wine, a manicure, or some other treat. It helps.
Group, I'm going to be in Virginia Beach until June 16th. It's a mess here. Sarah has a place to live -- with close family friends -- but she has very little space to work with, and very limited room for furniture of her own. Her child support prospects are modest at best, because baby-daddy doesn't work consistently. We are covering her attorney fees and a host of other things, like car repairs, that she's been unable to afford as a full-time mom. Layla will go to Kindergarten next year, and she will be able to resume work in photography; she also wants to become a paralegal so we are looking into that. It's so emotional, and exhausting for all of us that I can't think of much of anything else, least of all my book.
I got a lot of feedback and learned a lot at the writing retreat - but I can't process it all at the moment. I'm reasonably sure, though, that I won't be able to release my book until late this year, at best. My part-time paid job as an independent contractor is tough because I'm getting behind, but again, family FIRST and always. I'd give just about anything to be able to move here, but I can't find any way to make it work right now. That breaks my heart, honestly. I could be so much more helpful than I can be at 3000 miles away. I can only trust that time will take care of things.
I'll check in again soon. Hugs to all.
Paula
Hi Paula,Glad you got there ok. Sorry Sarah is having to go thru this. I have never been divorced ,but my Sister went thru 4 or 5 I can't remember which. So I saw it thru her eyes. What about Sarah & Layla moving to California ?
We went in for our blood work, and I did get my donut & Latte , it was a blueberry frosted donut and it was goooooood! The Latte not so much, there is this place in Helena that we go to for Lattes that has spoiled me for all others! Oh I was going to tell you all I lost another 6 pounds YEAH ! Love Lola
Hi, Lola! I could practically taste that donut. And congratulations on losing 6 pounds! I think I found them on my hips. I'm trying to eat healthy here, but it's been a challenge, between a trip to my favorite restaurant on the planet, and taking a 3-year-old to the restaurants she likes (Hint: chocolate fountain at place #1 and amazing Mexican food at place #2). I also haven't kept up my morning run routine. That one's a long story but I'm hoping that chasing and lifting a 3-year old (almost 4-year old) compensates to some extent.
Tomorrow we're taking a break from all the stress and going on a boat ride sponsored by the Virginia Aquarium. It's a dolphin spotting trip offshore, followed by an afternoon at the aquarium, Layla's favorite place. It's been cold and windy for two days (cold being a relative term - it's in the 60's but there's a nor'easter offshore and it's windy as heck. Good (hot and sunny) Virginia weather is coming back this weekend.
Sarah doesn't want to move to CA for a couple of reasons: she has good friends here - lots of them - and we have one family in particular that we've known literally since she was born. It's her former nanny, who's like your favorite aunt; her daughter, who's like an older sister; and her husband, who's just been diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. That's the family she's living with for now - and probably for about a year - and it's less than optimal for a few reasons, but they're like our own family. They adore Sarah and Layla and she adores them. They live in a really convenient neighborhood, less than a mile from where Sarah grew up. So it's safe and stable, if a bit crowded.
The other reason is visitation with her dad. She loves him, and to take her that far away would be devastating to them both. He has issues - lots of them - but they will be addressed by the court in approving the visitation agreement and calculating child support.
What a mess. But when Sarah was just a little older than Layla, I went through every bit of it. We're even using the same attorney that represented me. The man is a SAINT, but a grizzly in court, if he has to be.
So that's our story. It's messy. Ray and I may move up our timeline for moving away from CA and back here. It's stressing him out, but we are both arriving at the conclusion that it's inevitable. And for me, as you know, I want to come home and be there for my family.
Love you ladies! Only a few weeks until A Stardance Summer! Let's all look forward to that!
Paula
Tomorrow we're taking a break from all the stress and going on a boat ride sponsored by the Virginia Aquarium. It's a dolphin spotting trip offshore, followed by an afternoon at the aquarium, Layla's favorite place. It's been cold and windy for two days (cold being a relative term - it's in the 60's but there's a nor'easter offshore and it's windy as heck. Good (hot and sunny) Virginia weather is coming back this weekend.
Sarah doesn't want to move to CA for a couple of reasons: she has good friends here - lots of them - and we have one family in particular that we've known literally since she was born. It's her former nanny, who's like your favorite aunt; her daughter, who's like an older sister; and her husband, who's just been diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. That's the family she's living with for now - and probably for about a year - and it's less than optimal for a few reasons, but they're like our own family. They adore Sarah and Layla and she adores them. They live in a really convenient neighborhood, less than a mile from where Sarah grew up. So it's safe and stable, if a bit crowded.
The other reason is visitation with her dad. She loves him, and to take her that far away would be devastating to them both. He has issues - lots of them - but they will be addressed by the court in approving the visitation agreement and calculating child support.
What a mess. But when Sarah was just a little older than Layla, I went through every bit of it. We're even using the same attorney that represented me. The man is a SAINT, but a grizzly in court, if he has to be.
So that's our story. It's messy. Ray and I may move up our timeline for moving away from CA and back here. It's stressing him out, but we are both arriving at the conclusion that it's inevitable. And for me, as you know, I want to come home and be there for my family.
Love you ladies! Only a few weeks until A Stardance Summer! Let's all look forward to that!
Paula
Hi Ladies, So much going on with everyone and a lot of it not good. Hang in there and my thoughts are with you.It has been a busy few day here with us in respect of Judy and Marks, funeral services. Judy's was Friday 2nd and Mark's Thursday 8th June so we have been travelling around quiet a bit. It has been very emotional and exhausting for the whole family but we were all amazed by the number of people who attended both services to pay their respects. It was 'good' to be able to eventually say our 'goodbyes'. It's not going to be easy as the two of them going so close together has left such a hole, which can never be filled but we need to try a move forward and remember them both with love as they would want us to. Love to all from Lesley x
Lesley,it is especially hard with Judy and Mark passing so close. Keep you and your family in my prayers.
Paula,
Sometimes s things work to change what we thought was a perfect time. Keeping you and Sarah in my prayers. Ray as well so that things will work smooth for all of you.
Jina --
Check your e-mail, I finally got the beta reader questions thrown together. I hope to narrow them down on the next draft of the manuscript, so feel free to tell me if any of the questions are redundant or confusing. Thank you!
Check your e-mail, I finally got the beta reader questions thrown together. I hope to narrow them down on the next draft of the manuscript, so feel free to tell me if any of the questions are redundant or confusing. Thank you!
Paula wrote: "Jina --Check your e-mail, I finally got the beta reader questions thrown together. I hope to narrow them down on the next draft of the manuscript, so feel free to tell me if any of the questions ..."
Hi Paula!
I will check my email first thing in the morning and get right on it. My internet is sketchy today because there is an outage they are working on down the road.
Love and hugs to you and yours,
Jina
Paula wrote: "Jina --Check your e-mail, I finally got the beta reader questions thrown together. I hope to narrow them down on the next draft of the manuscript, so feel free to tell me if any of the questions ..."
Paula wrote: "Jina --
Check your e-mail, I finally got the beta reader questions thrown together. I hope to narrow them down on the next draft of the manuscript, so feel free to tell me if any of the questions ..."
Dear Paula,
I got your email and printed out 5 copies. Sam, my mom, my sister Joni, my friend Cyndi and myself will answer your questions. (Sam read it to Heather so Sams answers will also include anytging Heather wants to add.) My Mom and Joni will read and answer the questions when I go back home to Nebraska from July 1st to the 12th. When I get back home I will email you their answered questions. Also if they want to write a review where do you want it posted?
I thought you might like to know, Heather is doing much better now. Her cardiologist adjusted her 2 heart medicines, Nadolol and Amiodorone, and that seems to have helped tremendously.
How are your daughter and granddaughter doing now? Are they adjusting well? How are you? I hope you are well and having a wonderful summer. I will chat with you soon.
Love and hugs,
Jina and the girls
Hi, Jina!
Wow - you are, as always, more than amazing! Actually, Where Angels Sleep has its own Goodreads page, so anyone who wants to write a preliminary review can post it here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2.... I would really appreciate it, even though I know it's a partial manuscript. Feel free to identify yourself as a beta reader if you review. Honestly, I'm still fiddling with the idea of changing the title, because a couple of people at the writing retreat told me it sounds paranormal and readers would be disappointed that it isn't. But for now, I'm not changing anything until the book is finished and it's been through beta-reading as well as copy-editing. I trust feedback from readers more than from those who only look at the title and don't know the story.
I'm so happy Heather is doing better - I've been worried about all of you. Those are two good heart medicines and I hope she continues to improve.
Sarah registered Layla for a Methodist-sponsored Pre-K school this morning and both of them are so excited about it. It feels so good to see them so happy after as much as they've been through recently. We are delighted. Of course, every day has its ups and downs, but we are taking each day as it comes and celebrating the small wins in a big way. I can't wait to see them again. Ray and I hope to move back to Virginia in a couple of years so I can be a full-time grandmother and support system. Being so far away is more difficult than it's ever been. But again, one decision at a time!
To be honest, I'm having my own ups and downs, between work obligations, trying to write "against the tide" and dealing with a shifting situation with our family. The clinic is having a big regulatory survey in a couple of months and the workload is overwhelming because I've missed so much time there. And to be REALLY honest, I'd rather be writing. Every day. All day. My brain feels like a dumpster fire and I'm having trouble sleeping because I can't settle my thoughts on one thing at a time.
Nevertheless, that's adulthood, and I know how blessed I am. Far too blessed to let little things get me down.
Give the girls a big hug from me. Chat soon!
xo
Wow - you are, as always, more than amazing! Actually, Where Angels Sleep has its own Goodreads page, so anyone who wants to write a preliminary review can post it here: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2.... I would really appreciate it, even though I know it's a partial manuscript. Feel free to identify yourself as a beta reader if you review. Honestly, I'm still fiddling with the idea of changing the title, because a couple of people at the writing retreat told me it sounds paranormal and readers would be disappointed that it isn't. But for now, I'm not changing anything until the book is finished and it's been through beta-reading as well as copy-editing. I trust feedback from readers more than from those who only look at the title and don't know the story.
I'm so happy Heather is doing better - I've been worried about all of you. Those are two good heart medicines and I hope she continues to improve.
Sarah registered Layla for a Methodist-sponsored Pre-K school this morning and both of them are so excited about it. It feels so good to see them so happy after as much as they've been through recently. We are delighted. Of course, every day has its ups and downs, but we are taking each day as it comes and celebrating the small wins in a big way. I can't wait to see them again. Ray and I hope to move back to Virginia in a couple of years so I can be a full-time grandmother and support system. Being so far away is more difficult than it's ever been. But again, one decision at a time!
To be honest, I'm having my own ups and downs, between work obligations, trying to write "against the tide" and dealing with a shifting situation with our family. The clinic is having a big regulatory survey in a couple of months and the workload is overwhelming because I've missed so much time there. And to be REALLY honest, I'd rather be writing. Every day. All day. My brain feels like a dumpster fire and I'm having trouble sleeping because I can't settle my thoughts on one thing at a time.
Nevertheless, that's adulthood, and I know how blessed I am. Far too blessed to let little things get me down.
Give the girls a big hug from me. Chat soon!
xo
Hi All,Well we finally have a new shower lol, they came Wednesday and had the old tub out and the new one in by 5:30. Then they told us not to use it for 24 hrs. so the caulking could dry . Wolf had to open his mouth and laughing ask "What if water shoots out all over?" and they said call Lowes. The next day I go to turn on the shower to clean the shower stall and guess what water shoots out the top of the pipe and right in my face. The plumber came back out and said that the shower head we bought would keep come off the pipe because the suction cup that was supposed to hold it in place didn't work. So we took it back today and got a different one and YEAH it works!!!!! And we are both unstinky lol. Love Lola
Lola wrote: "Hi All,Well we finally have a new shower lol, they came Wednesday and had the old tub out and the new one in by 5:30. Then they told us not to use it for 24 hrs. so the caulking could dry . Wolf ..."
So pleased you are all sorted, enjoy xx
Thanks Lesley! How are you doing? Did you get your copy of the new book? I got the audio book but I am still listening to Christmas in Eternity Springs. I am sure I will be starting the new one soon. I really like Brick in the Christmas book. Love Lola
Hi Lola, Not doing too badly most of the time, we all say that sometimes we feel as if we are walking round in a 'fog' and still cann't believe it's real. Hoping that the internment of their ashes in a couple of weeks will help take us to the next step.Mark's stepchildren, their partners and some friends took part in a Charity Cycle Ride today, 2nd July, 25mile for the girls and 50 for the boys. Their group were raising funds for Pancreatic Cancer Action, which was one of the Charities Mark raised money for whilst he was ill. Sadl it was too far for us to go and support them for the day, but they have posted pictures of their group on Facebook for us to see and send messages of support.
Hopefully my copy of the new book is on the way from the USA as it's not available in UK at the moment. Looking forward to reading it and hoping Emily soon manages to get a new British Publisher sorted out.
I've just finished re-reading Sisters in Bloom by Melissa Foster, which is part of a three book tour by hers being sent from one member of her FB Readers Group to another where we each read the book, mark our favorite passage and send on to the next person with a bookmark of our choice which the next person keeps. One book is going round Australia etc, one round the USA and the other round Europe, including the UK. Have been debating doing a re-read of Eternity Springs again but I don't currently own all of them as I borrowed the earlier ones from the Library and cann't always get them in the order you need to read them. Love Lesley x
Hi ladies -- hope your Monday is going well. I have a question for you as I am feeling my way along this author trail. At the writing conference, the hosts recommended that new authors post a few chapters of their work in progress on Wattpad, a site for authors and readers to test out new work.
I did that last Thursday, so the first two chapters of Where Angels Sleep are now available here: https://www.wattpad.com/user/Paula_Ra...
The discouraging thing is that it's had eleven reads, no stars, and no comments. 6 people read chapter 1 and only 5 of them read Chapter 2. I'm not going to panic over that, but it does bring to mind questions about whether or not this first revised draft of the book is "working" - it would appear that it's not engaging readers as I might expect. My editor says it works - but readers on Wattpad aren't taking to it.
I'm tempted to take it down and go lick my wounds in private, but maybe it's too soon. Right now I'm in my "this draft is crap" mode - which apparently is normal among insecure writers...LOL. But if the purpose of using Wattpad is to grow and audience and build interest in the book, it seems to be failing from the get-go.
If you have time, please take a look at those chapters and tell me what's "missing" - I am NOT fishing for compliments, quite the opposite. I need to know what's not working about the draft. Perhaps the story gets off to too slow a start? Maybe the main character isn't connecting emotionally with the reader? Chapter 3 is where the first BIG event happens, it's emotional, but I don't want to give that part away yet.
I'll take any advice I can get from my favorite reader group.
Thank you.
Paula
I did that last Thursday, so the first two chapters of Where Angels Sleep are now available here: https://www.wattpad.com/user/Paula_Ra...
The discouraging thing is that it's had eleven reads, no stars, and no comments. 6 people read chapter 1 and only 5 of them read Chapter 2. I'm not going to panic over that, but it does bring to mind questions about whether or not this first revised draft of the book is "working" - it would appear that it's not engaging readers as I might expect. My editor says it works - but readers on Wattpad aren't taking to it.
I'm tempted to take it down and go lick my wounds in private, but maybe it's too soon. Right now I'm in my "this draft is crap" mode - which apparently is normal among insecure writers...LOL. But if the purpose of using Wattpad is to grow and audience and build interest in the book, it seems to be failing from the get-go.
If you have time, please take a look at those chapters and tell me what's "missing" - I am NOT fishing for compliments, quite the opposite. I need to know what's not working about the draft. Perhaps the story gets off to too slow a start? Maybe the main character isn't connecting emotionally with the reader? Chapter 3 is where the first BIG event happens, it's emotional, but I don't want to give that part away yet.
I'll take any advice I can get from my favorite reader group.
Thank you.
Paula
Read your first chapter and tried to post my paragragh but repeatedly got an "Oops! Something went wrong " message & was asked to try again later but I lost the whole message !😤 So I am kinda mad as my comments were lost!
Paula wrote: "Hi ladies -- hope your Monday is going well. I have a question for you as I am feeling my way along this author trail. At the writing conference, the hosts recommended that new authors post a few c..."Hi Paula, I thoroughly enjoyed the first two chapters of "Where Angels Sleep" and would love to read the rest of the book as I want to know what happens. The end of chapter two hints at where the storyline is going and to me the synopsis hints of a 'dark' storyline with no hint as to the type of ending. What type of reader are you aiming the book towards? Is it a 'cliff hanger' or a 'happy ever after'? Hope this helps. Keep your 'chin up' you will get there when the time is right. Love & hugs xx
Lesley, thank you for your comments and questions - they're so helpful! I'm still working on the synopsis (it's been through a dozen drafts, at least) - and you made a great point. The first 20% of the storyline is dark, which sets up the "turning point" that guides the rest of the story. There is no cliffhanger, and a definite happy-ever-after. While the story it's based on is one from my family, which did not have a happy ending, it is inspired by the "what if" question - what if at the right time, in a crazy place, someone crossed your path and changed your destiny? (Hmmm - maybe I should add that to the synopsis....you've given me a great idea).
As for the target audience, the book is probably classified as general fiction, but romance plays a huge part in the story. It's not your typical trope-driven romance, so it's hard to classify - an encounter in a subsequent chapter sets up the romantic angle that ultimately leads to the happy ending. And, by the way, I know how the book ends, and how the story leads to it, but the "middle" that I'm muddling through now is sucking the life out of me.
xo
Paula
As for the target audience, the book is probably classified as general fiction, but romance plays a huge part in the story. It's not your typical trope-driven romance, so it's hard to classify - an encounter in a subsequent chapter sets up the romantic angle that ultimately leads to the happy ending. And, by the way, I know how the book ends, and how the story leads to it, but the "middle" that I'm muddling through now is sucking the life out of me.
xo
Paula
Nancy wrote: "Read your first chapter and tried to post my paragragh but repeatedly got an "Oops! Something went wrong " message & was asked to try again later but I lost the whole message !😤 So I am kinda mad a..."
I'm so sorry that happened! I'll go to the site today, do a few updates and hope Wattpad gets itself sorted out sooner rather than later. I appreciate your efforts so much!
Update: Checked the site, fixed a few grammatical boo-boos, and uploaded Chapter 3. I also re-edited the story description so I hope it answers some questions.
Feedback is so helpful, I can't thank you enough.
I'm so sorry that happened! I'll go to the site today, do a few updates and hope Wattpad gets itself sorted out sooner rather than later. I appreciate your efforts so much!
Update: Checked the site, fixed a few grammatical boo-boos, and uploaded Chapter 3. I also re-edited the story description so I hope it answers some questions.
Feedback is so helpful, I can't thank you enough.
Paula wrote: "Lesley, thank you for your comments and questions - they're so helpful! I'm still working on the synopsis (it's been through a dozen drafts, at least) - and you made a great point. The first 20% of..."Paula, Wow, chapter 3 is intense but amazing and continues to pull me in. The book synopis is much improved for me & I personally would pick it up to read from that.
In respect of the 'middle' section, although the story is told from Matthew's POV, would it be possible at some point to run alongside Matthews story introduce his potential saviour & her son to tell what is happening to them at the same point in Matthews life. Don't know if this makes sense, would help or is possible. Keep going, you'll get there. Love & hugs xx
Paula~I had just applied to Wattpad but had not confirmed by email so perhaps that was the problem..will get back to it. Read Ch 1.
Lesley wrote: "Paula wrote: "Lesley, thank you for your comments and questions - they're so helpful! I'm still working on the synopsis (it's been through a dozen drafts, at least) - and you made a great point. Th..."
Lesley, you're very intuitive. The early part of the story is all in Matthew's POV. But once he meets the woman and her son, the POV alternates from time to time (not every other chapter, just when she has something to add.) It will reveal some information that will flip the plot on its head (I'm so excited to get to the actual flipping point, I can't stand it!).
It's still very much a work in progress - the story itself won't change much, but the writing will get better in the next revision, with input from beta readers like you, and my awesome editor.
Thank you so much!
P
Lesley, you're very intuitive. The early part of the story is all in Matthew's POV. But once he meets the woman and her son, the POV alternates from time to time (not every other chapter, just when she has something to add.) It will reveal some information that will flip the plot on its head (I'm so excited to get to the actual flipping point, I can't stand it!).
It's still very much a work in progress - the story itself won't change much, but the writing will get better in the next revision, with input from beta readers like you, and my awesome editor.
Thank you so much!
P
Nancy wrote: "Paula~I had just applied to Wattpad but had not confirmed by email so perhaps that was the problem..will get back to it. Read Ch 1."
Hi, Nancy -- thank you so much for trying. I appreciate it so much. I'm still getting used to Wattpad - the interface seems easy enough but their help menu is non-existent. :-)
Hi, Nancy -- thank you so much for trying. I appreciate it so much. I'm still getting used to Wattpad - the interface seems easy enough but their help menu is non-existent. :-)
Hi, Gang......
It's been quite a day and it's only 1:00 PM. If I don't laugh, I'll cry.
First, I took the dog out for a walk, a bee landed on her head and wouldn't let go. I'm terrified of bees and I over-react physically to their sting, so you should have seen me trying to bat away the little b***tard without getting stung. I'm sure I entertained the neighbors.
Next, we ran across a loose dog - a miniature collie with an attitude.
I came home to find a huge puddle of water on my hardwood kitchen floor (who puts hardwood in a kitchen?!?!?) - the refrigerator is leaking.
I went to the grocery store and misplaced my debit card. I searched the floor, my cart, my purse, and my grocery bags. Nothing. Finally, I gave up and wheeled the cart out to the car to unload the groceries, intending to head for the bank. I swear, the debit card APPEARED in the cart from nowhere. Right between the grocery bags, that I had taken out twice to search. I swear it felt like divine intervention.
On the way home, the air conditioning in my 2006 car started making a squeaky fan noise and the windshield washer stuff ran out.
Hopefully, my refrigerator will heal itself. And the fan won't cost much. <--- it's a Mercedes. The odds of anything not costing much are slim to negative zero.
LOL. Life.
It's been quite a day and it's only 1:00 PM. If I don't laugh, I'll cry.
First, I took the dog out for a walk, a bee landed on her head and wouldn't let go. I'm terrified of bees and I over-react physically to their sting, so you should have seen me trying to bat away the little b***tard without getting stung. I'm sure I entertained the neighbors.
Next, we ran across a loose dog - a miniature collie with an attitude.
I came home to find a huge puddle of water on my hardwood kitchen floor (who puts hardwood in a kitchen?!?!?) - the refrigerator is leaking.
I went to the grocery store and misplaced my debit card. I searched the floor, my cart, my purse, and my grocery bags. Nothing. Finally, I gave up and wheeled the cart out to the car to unload the groceries, intending to head for the bank. I swear, the debit card APPEARED in the cart from nowhere. Right between the grocery bags, that I had taken out twice to search. I swear it felt like divine intervention.
On the way home, the air conditioning in my 2006 car started making a squeaky fan noise and the windshield washer stuff ran out.
Hopefully, my refrigerator will heal itself. And the fan won't cost much. <--- it's a Mercedes. The odds of anything not costing much are slim to negative zero.
LOL. Life.
lol I think you should go to bed and stay there Paula! That is if you have a sturdy bed ;D ! Sorry I couldn't help myself. We have all lived thru days like that. I need to check out your book soon! Love Lola
OMG OMG Paula ,I LOVE your book ,I want to know what happens !!!!!! I love the cover too Yummy!!!! Love Lola
Paula,OMG! I WANT MORE!! I am not fond of cliffhangers. How could anyone think this is anything less than spectacular?
Don't you dare give up! I need a happy ending.
You ladies are simply awesome. Your comments mean so much as I stagger down the path to publication.
xo
P
xo
P
Paula wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Paula wrote: "Lesley, thank you for your comments and questions - they're so helpful! I'm still working on the synopsis (it's been through a dozen drafts, at least) - and you made a ..."You are very welcome, I'm enjoying being part of your process. xx
Paula, The latest chapter is so insightful and heartbreaking for anyone who is a parent but still I cann't wait to be able to read the whole story. Keep going xx
Paula,You are getting your novel written even with all the turmoil going on. The ladies seem to be enjoying helping you out as well.
I told my Mom about your rough day that you posted about. She said it sounded like you had done enough and needed to read and write. It made her laugh. Something good can come out of the bad or difficult things.
Have a good day.
Ladies,It has been busy here . Mom's brother is gone after 3. 5 months with us but who counted. It has been hard because my Mom has not been doing well . Just her health issues . It has been hard to get thing s done. I hope you are having a good day. I get to start Emily's book.
Lesley wrote: "Paula, The latest chapter is so insightful and heartbreaking for anyone who is a parent but still I cann't wait to be able to read the whole story. Keep going xx"
Thanks so much, Lesley - Hopefully the heartbreak will make the happy ending even more joyful. The clinical parts of the story are taken from my pediatric nursing experience - one scene in particular still makes me cry because the memory of the actual event is still with me after 30 years. I knew it would someday find its way into a book. It also made my husband cry...but I promise it will get better!
Thanks so much, Lesley - Hopefully the heartbreak will make the happy ending even more joyful. The clinical parts of the story are taken from my pediatric nursing experience - one scene in particular still makes me cry because the memory of the actual event is still with me after 30 years. I knew it would someday find its way into a book. It also made my husband cry...but I promise it will get better!
Melinda wrote: "Paula,
You are getting your novel written even with all the turmoil going on. The ladies seem to be enjoying helping you out as well.
I told my Mom about your rough day that you posted about. She ..."
Melinda - your mom is a wise woman. I spent the evening reading a new book by another favorite author, Lyz Kelley. Her series reminds me a little bit of Eternity Springs in that it takes place in a small town and the characters carry over from book to book. There's no Celeste, and the background storyline deals with a murder, but it's a beautiful series. If you're interested, it's the Elkridge Series, and the first book is called Blinded. The heroine is blind. And there is a dog...and a fantastic hero...sigh.
You are getting your novel written even with all the turmoil going on. The ladies seem to be enjoying helping you out as well.
I told my Mom about your rough day that you posted about. She ..."
Melinda - your mom is a wise woman. I spent the evening reading a new book by another favorite author, Lyz Kelley. Her series reminds me a little bit of Eternity Springs in that it takes place in a small town and the characters carry over from book to book. There's no Celeste, and the background storyline deals with a murder, but it's a beautiful series. If you're interested, it's the Elkridge Series, and the first book is called Blinded. The heroine is blind. And there is a dog...and a fantastic hero...sigh.
Paula wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Paula, The latest chapter is so insightful and heartbreaking for anyone who is a parent but still I cann't wait to be able to read the whole story. Keep going xx"Thanks so much, Le..."
They usually say that true life events make for the best fiction and I'm really looking forward to the rest of the story even if it makes me cry before the HEA ending xx
Paula wrote: "Hi, Gang......It's been quite a day and it's only 1:00 PM. If I don't laugh, I'll cry.
First, I took the dog out for a walk, a bee landed on her head and wouldn't let go. I'm terrified of bees an..."
Dear Paula,
I re-read "Where Angels Sleep" which by the way I think is a wonderful title. But that wat site only let me read the first chapter. I wrote a review but on the stars it only let me click one star. Can you tell me how to post a 5 star rating? The girls and I are answering your questionaire this afternoon and will email you those this evening. I am sorry I am late. Heather got sick in Nebraska so I had to drive 26 hours staight to get her home, we unloaded the car and took Heather to 3 doctors and then grocery shopping and then home. I had been up a total over 60 hours because some drama happened at Mom and Dads and I didnt sleep at all the last 24 hours. I couldnt shut my mind off. Not to mention Heather was ill. She was broke out in hives from head to toe, cried when going to the bathroom and said her mouth and throat hurt. We had to watch her closely. At the doctors they said she had an abcess in her mouth, the rash "looked like" peticial haemorrhage like low platelets, she had blood in her urine, her ear canals are deformed from extra scar tissue probably due to too many ear infections as a child. They took blood for a CBC and urine test. We haven't got the results back yet. I fell asleep last night by 7pm in my computer chair with my head on my hand sound asleep. I guess I was tired huh? Anyway, I love your book so far and cant wait for the whole book.
Paula, I am going to talk with you now as if we havent been friends for these last years and talk frank with you as if being a beta reader was all the relationship we have and give you my opinion. First off I think your writers retreat people were trying to help by giving you only the parts that they didnt understand or expect. I think maybe they were trying to help by not praising your book if that makes sense. Like maybe they didnt share with you what they liked because that wouldnt help you or be constructive to just say they liked it. Maybe they were overanalyze trying to think of anything possible that any reader would think. I am sorry they didnt tell you their favorite things about the book along with their negative possibilities. In the end I think the feedback you get from the people who read your first 4 chapters and answer your question rubric will be the most productive and truly honest assessment. I think your book is a five star book. It pulls a reader in right from the start. The setting and atmosphere are spot on. You capture a hospital setting perfectly. You convey the tension and urgency of the situation as well as the appropriate emotions had by your characters. Its a wonderful writing with heartwarming and heartwrenching storyline. I love it and cant wait for more.
I hope today you have a better day. If nothing else treat yourself to a re-read of your favorite book or ice cream or whatever floats your boat. Be looking for an email from me in the morning.
Love and hugs to you
Jina and the girls
Hi, Jina!
Wow - you've been through the ringer, and I'm so sorry Heather became ill. I hope she's doing better now and well on her way to recovery. I also hope you are resting after such an exhausting few days. Please don't worry about the beta questions - I have over half the book left to write and plenty of time for revisions. Thank you for your thoughtful feedback. I've processed the experience at the writing retreat and am content that I learned a lot about the process, met a few nice people, and gained a little bit of confidence. I wanted to find a critique partner and a "tribe" of like-minded newbie authors, but that part didn't work out. Still, it was worthwhile, and I'll know what to expect if I decide to attend another one.
I had a hot fudge sundae yesterday and am reading a wonderful book series. I wrote about 1800+ words yesterday, and am going on a weekend "retreat" to the coast to write and write and write, if my muse will only show up!
Give hugs to all of your girls for me and thank you so much for being a beta as well as a friend.
P
Wow - you've been through the ringer, and I'm so sorry Heather became ill. I hope she's doing better now and well on her way to recovery. I also hope you are resting after such an exhausting few days. Please don't worry about the beta questions - I have over half the book left to write and plenty of time for revisions. Thank you for your thoughtful feedback. I've processed the experience at the writing retreat and am content that I learned a lot about the process, met a few nice people, and gained a little bit of confidence. I wanted to find a critique partner and a "tribe" of like-minded newbie authors, but that part didn't work out. Still, it was worthwhile, and I'll know what to expect if I decide to attend another one.
I had a hot fudge sundae yesterday and am reading a wonderful book series. I wrote about 1800+ words yesterday, and am going on a weekend "retreat" to the coast to write and write and write, if my muse will only show up!
Give hugs to all of your girls for me and thank you so much for being a beta as well as a friend.
P
Jina wrote: "Paula wrote: "Hi, Gang......
It's been quite a day and it's only 1:00 PM. If I don't laugh, I'll cry.
First, I took the dog out for a walk, a bee landed on her head and wouldn't let go. I'm terrif..."
Lesley wrote: "Paula wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Paula, The latest chapter is so insightful and heartbreaking for anyone who is a parent but still I cann't wait to be able to read the whole story. Keep going xx"
Than..."
P.S. - On Wattpad, there's only one document and all four chapters are there, but they may not be labeled individually. I'll check that out. Also, Wattpad only allows one star, it's used to vote for a book you enjoy, IF I enter it into one of their competitions. I don't plan to compete with this version (it's not fully edited by any means!) - but still, the little stars make me happy. You can rate it on Goodreads, though, if you like.
P
It's been quite a day and it's only 1:00 PM. If I don't laugh, I'll cry.
First, I took the dog out for a walk, a bee landed on her head and wouldn't let go. I'm terrif..."
Lesley wrote: "Paula wrote: "Lesley wrote: "Paula, The latest chapter is so insightful and heartbreaking for anyone who is a parent but still I cann't wait to be able to read the whole story. Keep going xx"
Than..."
P.S. - On Wattpad, there's only one document and all four chapters are there, but they may not be labeled individually. I'll check that out. Also, Wattpad only allows one star, it's used to vote for a book you enjoy, IF I enter it into one of their competitions. I don't plan to compete with this version (it's not fully edited by any means!) - but still, the little stars make me happy. You can rate it on Goodreads, though, if you like.
P
Jina wrote: "Paula wrote: "Hi, Gang......It's been quite a day and it's only 1:00 PM. If I don't laugh, I'll cry.
First, I took the dog out for a walk, a bee landed on her head and wouldn't let go. I'm terrific..."
Oh, Jina honey, I am so sorry your trip was stressful and for Heather's illness. If I could I would send you to a day spa for a completely relaxing day to be pampered and fussed over. You must be exhausted.
I pray Heather is doing better. As a mother, I can certainly understand the feelings of distress when your child is ill. I am praying for healing for all of you, both physical and emotional. God will see you through this. He is always there to carry us when we feel we can not go any further.
Peace be with you, my friend.
Give my love to the girls. Please take care of yourself. You have so much weight on your shoulders, I wish I could take some of it for you. My prayers will have to suffice.
Love and hugs,
Linda
Linda wrote: "Jina wrote: "Paula wrote: "Hi, Gang......It's been quite a day and it's only 1:00 PM. If I don't laugh, I'll cry.
First, I took the dog out for a walk, a bee landed on her head and wouldn't let g..."
Dear Linda,
Thank you so much for the prayers and thoughtful wishes for my girls and I. I woke up with a horrible sore throat and earache. I took some medicine and have slept off and on all day. I think all the running around and lack of sleep got my immune system down. I take a vitamin c pill everyday to try to help keep me from being sick but I also have lost 22 lbs. in a short period of time. I went from size 14 to a size 8-10 (depending on designer and stretchy to regular fit). So that too may be too fast and compromised my immune system. Tjanks so much for always thinking and praying for us. You are such a caring and treasured friend.
Love and hugs to you,
Jina
Jina,Keeping you and the girls in my prayers. Hope you are getting some sleep. Wishing you had a better trip. Give the girls a hug. Tell them I said for them to hug you.
Melinda
Melinda wrote: "Jina,Keeping you and the girls in my prayers. Hope you are getting some sleep. Wishing you had a better trip. Give the girls a hug. Tell them I said for them to hug you.
Melinda"
Dear Melinda,
Thank you for your kindness and prayers. I am almost caught up in sleep I think. We were able to have mostly wonderful days during our trip home. Gteat weather but hot in the afternoon but it cooled a lot by supper time. We went to see fireworms 4 nights in a row at the nearby towns and my brother, Dana's place. We spent the day at the Henry Doorly Zoo. Thats an Awesome and amazing place. You cant see everything in a day or even two dsys. Its a massive zoo and so beautiful. We also spent a couple days at Branched Oak Lake. I was tthere with my class for our 30 year reunion. That was fun and the other day at the lake was spent with my immediate family. We went boating, kayaking and jet skiing. I was bunched out of Big Bertha a huge inner tube that was pulled behind the boat. Everyone vot a laugh at that , including my 16 year old autistic nepbew, Adam. He even said "silly woman cant stay in the tube and he giggled. My brother Dana was driving the boat and was doing massive belly laughs when I was picked up by the boat.
Two days before we left my Dad had taken Sarah camping in Yangkton South Dakota. We were all supposed to go buf Heather had a horrible rash and was feeling bad and I was sick. I had a headache and went to lay down for awhile. After about a half an hour I had to get up because I was getting nauseous and had broke out in a clammy mess. My ears wete ringing so loud I couldn't hear anything else. I went upstairs to get some cold water and some medicine and Mom said "Jina you dont look good" so I told her how I felt and she helped with the medicine but the medicine was best taken with food. Mom had made Meatloaf and German potato salad and swiss vegetables so I had a little of everything. Took my medicine and went to sit in the rocker recycliner. About an hour latdr I got up to go to the bathroom snd got so dizzy just after a few steps that I sat on the floor. Mom went and got her sugar meter. My blood sugar was 84. Mom got concerned. She td me that a reading like that was more appropriate for a fasting count, not a good reading for someo e who had a meal just an hour before. I took a shower and went to bed it was aboit 7:30pm when I laid down. The next day we were supposed to go to my aunt Cynthias house but it was so hot and I was still feeling bad so I stayed home. That afternoon I sat down to have a heart to heart with Mom. At Mom's house it was awkward. There was a lot of tension in the house. Mom and Dad were bickering a lot and rarely showef any kindness to each other. So I was going to find out why. I figured while Dad was gone I could talk to Mom and then later talk to Dad. I was afraid that the kids and I being there was causing it. When I found out mom's side of it, I was shocked , scared and heartbroken. Mom told me that over the last few years, around 3 years ago after my Dad's stroke, he had changed. Evidently he has been mean at times to Mom. She said he has locked her out of the house, call her a son of a b#@!$, wrote down the mileage before Mom went somewhere and then confronted her about where she goes, he is supposedly rude and insults her about her sisters. I was even told that he never says please, thank you or that he is sorry. My mom loves her flowers and I guess one afternoon Dad went out and trampled down all of the irises and daisies, all the bulb plants. All while he was doing that he was yelling about "dumb fing flowers" yada yada. You have to understand my family. There isnt displays of emotipn, its unspoken the love we have for each other. I am the only one who says "I love you" to my sister Joni, My brothers ,Dana and Daren, my Dad ,Del, and my mom ,,Janice. I tell them that I love them and the response back is "yep", or " uh huh". Its forever been this way. My mom started telling me she loved me when I had to leave the state to help protect my girls from their father. My sister has been telling me since I nearly died while pregnant with Sam. I was about 20 weeks along and I got strep throat, the infection went into my bloodstream and I got pneumonia, scarlet fever, total kidney failure, a collapsed lung etc... the one doctor said I had toxemia and had gotten septic. (Whatever that means) Anyway, since then my sister and I tell each other that we love each other. My Dads family doesnt show emotion, not even considers a public display of affection. No holding hands, kissing anything. Not saying its wrong or right, just how it is. I am sure Grandma Edna and Papa Don never said "love you" to their kids. While they were alive I never saw any hugs or anything. So I guess my parents are just showing affection the way they were treated. My Dad tells me he loves me by checking on my vehicle or paying for gas or buying me something. When I am with my Dad, I cant say that I like something otherwise he buys it for me or gives it to me. Evidently, ever since Dad's stroke he can be mean and cruel to Mom. When she was telling me the things he has supposedly been doing, I kept thinking 'my dad wouldnt do this', and I told Mom that the person she is describing isnt the Dad I know. She said she has shredded their marriage document, they are never in the same room together, Mom has most of the upstairs and Dad has the basement and his fireplace living room while the other front living room is where you'll find Mom. Dad has the spare bedroom and Mom has the master bed and bath. This conversation with Mom was 2 days before I left. I was heartbroken for them both. I so want the people I love most in the world to be happy. Life is so short, too short to live in an unhappy house. If only they would show some sort of kindness to each other. I feel guilty that I haven't been there more to try to help get them back to the way I remember them 3 short years ago. Anyway, I am sorry for rambling but I felt I needed to explain why this trip home was hard on me.
What I have learned from this is not to take my husband Michael for granted. I tell him I love him more times a day than before, I give him more hugs and tell him the please, thank yous etc. I dont want Mike and I to get to be like my Mom and Dad.
Enough of that, I received a wonderful gift from my big sis Lola. Thank you so much for the Emilys new book! Its wonderful! I plan to start on it tomorrow when we get home from visiting Michaels best friend who is struggling with stage 4 lung cancer.
To everyone in this awesome group, you are like my sisters and I want to thank you for your friendship, the laughs we have and the support and encouragement you show. I love you all. I hope you all are having a wonderful and prosperous summer,
Take care.
Love,
Jina
Jina, So sorry your parents are having a rough time since your Dad's stroke. Unfortuneatly, illness of anykind can drastically change a persons personality, not always for the best and usually it is the person they love the most who bears the brunt. There is no easy answer to any of this and distance makes it even more difficult to deal with. All you can do is support them both by listening and talking to them both. As much as you wish to you cannot do more for them than you do as you have your own family to think about which is want they would both want you to do. You can ramble as much as you want here, we will listen and support as best we can. Love to you, Michael and the girls xx
Dear Jina,I am praying for you and your family. It seems that sometimes the battles of the heart are the toughest to handle. I have come to understand, through the loss of my mother, that it was more of an emotional battle at the realization of her no longer being here with us than her actual death. We all know where her soul resides, we just miss being able to call her or visit with her. It is so hard to watch the ones we love go through any form of pain. At this point, I believe all you can do is entrust them to the Lord and be a voice of reason and lend an ear when they need to talk. I know my mom's personality changed after her stroke several years ago. Has your dad been tested for any underlying illness? Perhaps he could go in for a physical and have a blood workup to see what is going on with him. It's a thought. All I can tell you is to put them in God's hands and I will pray along with you for peace to reign in their home once again.
Hang in there girlfriend. You have so much on your plate now, I can't imagine you taking on any more.
I have sent you a little something to help you along this journey. My mother gave me the same some time ago and it was such a blessing and a source of strength both when I had my breakdown and during her last days.
Peace be with you, my friend, and know you have a place to vent when you feel overwhelmed.
You can always message me or email me if you need to.
Pass out hugs from me to all the girls.
Love, Linda
I am all riled up over Paula's situation. Wish I could wring the jerks neck for her. I have a real problem with men who don't respect women and abuse children (throwing them out on the street).
I don't know about you, but I am sick and tired of life stepping on us like a bug. We deserve better than we are getting and since we can't do anything about our own situations, I think I will focus my outrage on Paula's idiot son-in-law. lol
Whew.... I feel better now. lol
Hope everyone else is doing well. I have had some blue days but I am doing okay. My mom is doing better. Daddy said her voice is almost gone though. She is eating more so I am sure that is helping. There were days when she barely took a bite of her meals. She has lots of people looking in on her now, so I feel better about the whole situation. If they need me I will leave here in a flash to get there.
I planted my little garden. Spinach, lettuce, mustard greens, tomatoes, onions, carrots, bush beans, and turnips. Just a short row of each. I hope they do well. We bought tomato plants at the co-op that are about two feet tall. They came back real well from the transplant and are thriving. I just planted beefsteak because we have such a short growing season here.
Well, that is all the news here. Take care everyone.
Love and hugs, Linda