I imagine some of you have written things, and given them to others to read. I don't know why, but every time I do this I get butterflies in my tummy. I pace back and forth and wonder if they think it's going to be garbage.
That always leads to the thought that it probably is garbage and I'm just wasting my time going down a literary path.
Then I always tell myself that I'll just keep writing because practice makes perfect, right?
Although if no one likes this, and this is my voice, doesn't that make me doomed?
Then again, writing brings me sanity, and well, you get the point.
Of all the things I could choose to spend my time doing, I choose writing. The most emotionally draining, sweat inducing, unprofitable thing in the world. Of course I can say the same thing about motherhood, which is the other thing I spend my time on.
I just have to ask myself, why I'm going through this torture? Do I really I have a bestselling book on my hands? No, honestly, I don't. Yet, I'm still pushing forward. I really don't know that I'll ever be published, but I do know I want to finish this. I can't go through my life asking what if?
I'm finishing my book because I need to know that I can follow something through to the end. That, and I'm rather attached to the story. Maybe a little too attached. I'm not sure anyone can love it like I do.
I want to know, how have you guys coped with others reading your work, and critiquing it? Anything to help me calm my nerves. Because really, I'm just a big softy.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
That Bad, huh?
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Just peeking in to say "hi!"
I know I said I would only post three times a week, but I had no idea how hard that would actually be. I just have so much I need to tell you that I can't stay away.
First I want to announce that I am going to be part of the Lor Mandela 400 days book blog tour! (see the button on the left sidebar) I had a really cool interview with L. Carrol (one awesome lady) that I will posting on Friday. *so excited* If your not following her blog or talking to her on twitter, you're totally missing out :)
Second, for those of you who live in Utah, I did an amazing blog post for A local Wanderer about the place I live, so worth checking out!
Third, I want to direct your attention to my new tab "life list club" go take a peek, and if you want to join me, just me know. More on this on saturday.
Okay, I'm going back into my hole now. Everyone have a good day!
First I want to announce that I am going to be part of the Lor Mandela 400 days book blog tour! (see the button on the left sidebar) I had a really cool interview with L. Carrol (one awesome lady) that I will posting on Friday. *so excited* If your not following her blog or talking to her on twitter, you're totally missing out :)
Second, for those of you who live in Utah, I did an amazing blog post for A local Wanderer about the place I live, so worth checking out!
Third, I want to direct your attention to my new tab "life list club" go take a peek, and if you want to join me, just me know. More on this on saturday.
Okay, I'm going back into my hole now. Everyone have a good day!
Monday, June 27, 2011
Editing tools
Sadly, Monday Best is no more. I know, I'm sad about it too. But since I'm cutting back, a few sacrifices had to made :(
On a positive note, my book is coming along. I sent the first few pages to a few people, so I am hoping to have it fully edited in three or four months *fingers crossed*
Of course I may go through and edit once more after that, but I will think about that later.
Two more things - First I wanted to let you all know that my next door neighbor and good friend Krista (who wrote a pretty fun fantasy novel) has started a blog. Check it out here.
Second, the lovely Deirdra at A Storybook World gave me the creative blog award!
Isn't it pretty? I love the fairy green clothes, and the dream catcher. So fun!
Moving on...
As I said, I've sent the first few pages of my book out for people to review. (BTW, if you want to do the same, nudge me below, I'll be glad to exchange.) With this process I've come to realize that many people don't know of the editing tools Word has to offer, so I thought I would shed some light. That way others can take advantage too. It makes editing on the computer so much easier.
There are two very handy tools under the review tab -
The first one is called 'track changes.'
With this tool you can make changes to the document and they will show up in red. The author can then choose to use your advice, or not.
The second is called 'new comment'
With this tool you can add notes to the work you're revising by highlighting then adding whatever comment you choose. In the end it will look like this -
Using these tools can greatly increase your ability to give a good critique. Happy editing!
On a positive note, my book is coming along. I sent the first few pages to a few people, so I am hoping to have it fully edited in three or four months *fingers crossed*
Of course I may go through and edit once more after that, but I will think about that later.
Two more things - First I wanted to let you all know that my next door neighbor and good friend Krista (who wrote a pretty fun fantasy novel) has started a blog. Check it out here.
Second, the lovely Deirdra at A Storybook World gave me the creative blog award!
Isn't it pretty? I love the fairy green clothes, and the dream catcher. So fun!
Moving on...
As I said, I've sent the first few pages of my book out for people to review. (BTW, if you want to do the same, nudge me below, I'll be glad to exchange.) With this process I've come to realize that many people don't know of the editing tools Word has to offer, so I thought I would shed some light. That way others can take advantage too. It makes editing on the computer so much easier.
There are two very handy tools under the review tab -
The first one is called 'track changes.'
With this tool you can make changes to the document and they will show up in red. The author can then choose to use your advice, or not.
The second is called 'new comment'
With this tool you can add notes to the work you're revising by highlighting then adding whatever comment you choose. In the end it will look like this -
Using these tools can greatly increase your ability to give a good critique. Happy editing!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Cutting Back
Yesterday when I started editing my eyes where opened to something. Something I knew and had been saying for a long time.
It's like when you become a parent and everyone tells you that you're not going to get any sleep and it's going to be really hard. You already know these things. But the second you get that baby in your arms the reality of it hits you.
So, now that I've started to edit, I realize this is going to take a lot of time. From the get go I've really been concentrating on blogging. Why? Because I love it. I love going to your blogs and getting to know you. I love it when you guys come here and comment and let me know what you think.
But the fact remains that my book should really be my first priority. So I'm cutting back. I'll only be blogging three times a week.
I want to visit you guys as much as I can, but I have to cut back on that too . So if you don't see me every post, I'm sorry. But I will pop in and say hello!
I know you guys are awesome and will totally understand, because I seriously couldn't ask for better readers!
Thanks for sticking with me :D
It's like when you become a parent and everyone tells you that you're not going to get any sleep and it's going to be really hard. You already know these things. But the second you get that baby in your arms the reality of it hits you.
So, now that I've started to edit, I realize this is going to take a lot of time. From the get go I've really been concentrating on blogging. Why? Because I love it. I love going to your blogs and getting to know you. I love it when you guys come here and comment and let me know what you think.
But the fact remains that my book should really be my first priority. So I'm cutting back. I'll only be blogging three times a week.
I want to visit you guys as much as I can, but I have to cut back on that too . So if you don't see me every post, I'm sorry. But I will pop in and say hello!
I know you guys are awesome and will totally understand, because I seriously couldn't ask for better readers!
Thanks for sticking with me :D
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Motivation, where art thou?
I've been seeing a lot of blog post lately where the author has been saying "I need motivation"
So, I asked my peeps on Facebook - "what drives you?" and I got the general answer that it was about the vision of the "end goal"
Then I thought about what drives me. First, let me say that I have been pretty lazy since I finished the 1st draft of my book. I haven't been writing. (Except on here, of course, but I don't feel like that counts.) Because of this I feel like I'm losing the skills I was just starting to gain when I came to the end of my book.
I had a vision. I wanted to finish my book. I've been taking time off from it because it's better to go back to the book with fresh eyes. In that process I lost motivation, because, I gave up my schedule. The problem is, I love the book I wrote. I know I have a ton of editing to do, but that's the story in my head right now, and it won't leave.
Therefore, I've come to a decision. It's three days early, but I'm going to start editing now. For the sake of motivation.
So, I asked my peeps on Facebook - "what drives you?" and I got the general answer that it was about the vision of the "end goal"
Then I thought about what drives me. First, let me say that I have been pretty lazy since I finished the 1st draft of my book. I haven't been writing. (Except on here, of course, but I don't feel like that counts.) Because of this I feel like I'm losing the skills I was just starting to gain when I came to the end of my book.
I had a vision. I wanted to finish my book. I've been taking time off from it because it's better to go back to the book with fresh eyes. In that process I lost motivation, because, I gave up my schedule. The problem is, I love the book I wrote. I know I have a ton of editing to do, but that's the story in my head right now, and it won't leave.
Therefore, I've come to a decision. It's three days early, but I'm going to start editing now. For the sake of motivation.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Keep the Story Going
I realize that a good a portion of my readers have no intention of ever writing a book. I mean, who wants to spend four months writing, six months editing, and years finding an agent, getting published, and gaining notoriety? (if only it were that simple).
Maybe you have a desire to write a book, but not the time to dedicate to such a daunting task? I have a solution.
It's called keep the story going, and it's on Facebook.
"Back up a minute." I hear all my writer friends saying. We like to write, so why would we spend any time on this app? I'll tell you. Say you have that pesky writers block? Say you just can't get out of the same rut with your characters? This app is an eye opener.
I was on there the other day thinking that wouldn't it be funny if this MC's mom showed up out of nowhere, after she was supposedly dead for so many years?
So I typed. The villain says to the MC "I'll tell you why you have to listen to me, because I have your mother behind this curtain."
I wondered if the other writer in the room would pick up on it. They continued. "she wasn't sure about this because she hadn't seen her mother since..." Well I added some more after that and let me tell you it was so fun!
It really gave me the chance to see what other people think of a plot and gave me loads of new ideas to use in my book.
So you see, writer or not, you can go have a little fun and get a little inspiration.
Oh, and while you're there, stop by my author page :)
_____________________________________________________________________
By the way I was not paid for this post, I just really like this app.
Maybe you have a desire to write a book, but not the time to dedicate to such a daunting task? I have a solution.
It's called keep the story going, and it's on Facebook.
A few stories have been already been started (and you can start your own) All you have to do is go in and add whatever you think the next big plot twist should be. Write one sentence, write a paragraph, or tag-team with other writers in the room.
"Back up a minute." I hear all my writer friends saying. We like to write, so why would we spend any time on this app? I'll tell you. Say you have that pesky writers block? Say you just can't get out of the same rut with your characters? This app is an eye opener.
I was on there the other day thinking that wouldn't it be funny if this MC's mom showed up out of nowhere, after she was supposedly dead for so many years?
So I typed. The villain says to the MC "I'll tell you why you have to listen to me, because I have your mother behind this curtain."
I wondered if the other writer in the room would pick up on it. They continued. "she wasn't sure about this because she hadn't seen her mother since..." Well I added some more after that and let me tell you it was so fun!
It really gave me the chance to see what other people think of a plot and gave me loads of new ideas to use in my book.
So you see, writer or not, you can go have a little fun and get a little inspiration.
Oh, and while you're there, stop by my author page :)
_____________________________________________________________________
By the way I was not paid for this post, I just really like this app.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Monday Best #5
Happy Monday all! I hope all those in the U.S. had a great father's day!
I just wanted to thank everyone in advance for linking up. I read all of your posts and love to see the different views you all hold on life.
This weeks inspiration phrase is *A Challenge
I'll be linking up an old post I wrote about a writing competition and editing. Hope you all enjoy, and I can't wait to see what you post!
_____________________________________________________________________
*Don't feel obligated to link the theme. Link whatever you like!
I just wanted to thank everyone in advance for linking up. I read all of your posts and love to see the different views you all hold on life.
This weeks inspiration phrase is *A Challenge
I'll be linking up an old post I wrote about a writing competition and editing. Hope you all enjoy, and I can't wait to see what you post!
<a href="http://abookagirlajourney.blogspot.com/"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 125px; height: 125px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i94cC5w0_mU/TdCMch0C57I/AAAAAAAAAIE/JFCJBF4yGJo/s320/Best.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607135957817157554" border="0" /<>/a>>/div>
Here are the rules:
1. If you don't already, follow the host website (http://abookagirlajourney.blogspot.com)
2. Grab a button and put it on your site so others can find their way back & share in the fun.
3. Link up a post, not a whole blog.
_____________________________________________________________________
*Don't feel obligated to link the theme. Link whatever you like!
Friday, June 17, 2011
Friday's Inspiration
Before I tell you about today's awesome song choice, I just wanted to direct you to my new shiny blog roll. *sighs* isn't it pretty? Oh yeah, and I got a Facebook Author page, hop on over and check it out!
Moving on. One of my favorite bands is One Republic. I resisted buying their latest album simply because I had the first and I didn't want overkill on my iTunes. Well, after still liking 'Secrets' when it has been played to death on the radio, I gave in.
Today I'm going to share my new favorite song off that album. Can I just say I love Ryan Tedder's falsetto? Okay, done ranting. Here's the vid.
Moving on. One of my favorite bands is One Republic. I resisted buying their latest album simply because I had the first and I didn't want overkill on my iTunes. Well, after still liking 'Secrets' when it has been played to death on the radio, I gave in.
Today I'm going to share my new favorite song off that album. Can I just say I love Ryan Tedder's falsetto? Okay, done ranting. Here's the vid.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
All you need is love
So... I was thinking, it's about time I started a blog roll. If you want your site to appear on my side bar, just leave a comment below and I will link you up!
In other news, I've gotten three - count 'em - three blog awards! *Does the Carlton dance*
Scott Niven has seen fit to bestow the irresistibly sweet and the stylish blogger award on me. Thank you! Bling and food, could a girl ask for more?
I also received the versatile blogger award from Alex Megas! The fact that he sought me out really touch me, thank you!
I'm going to bestow these babies on the following:
1. The stylish blogger award goes to... eff at Groupie. I would say she is defiantly is in the know when it comes to good music.
2. The Irresistibly Sweet award goes to... Michelle at A Local Wanderer. Her sweet details about what is going on in my home state are so worth a mention.
3. The versatile award goes to... Rory at The Scottish Scribbler. His blog posts range from photos in his current area (Australia) to conversations with the Royal Family. He is one blogger you won't want to miss!
Now for a few silly things about me:
1. Last night I figured out that I can make a killer Turkey Burger! Season the meat with poultry seasoning, garlic & onion power, and some ground pepper. Then buckle up for great taste without losing too much healthy. I had mine on a whole wheat bun with part-skim mozzarella, avocado, red onion, and tomato - yum! Seriously drooling just thinking about it.
2. The current show I'm obsessing over is Numb3rs (yes I know it's not on the air anymore, but they have all the seasons on Netflix. So much better than waiting week after week.)
3. I play the piano. Not well, mind you, but I can read music.
That about sums it up. Everyone have a great Thursday!
In other news, I've gotten three - count 'em - three blog awards! *Does the Carlton dance*
Scott Niven has seen fit to bestow the irresistibly sweet and the stylish blogger award on me. Thank you! Bling and food, could a girl ask for more?
I also received the versatile blogger award from Alex Megas! The fact that he sought me out really touch me, thank you!
I'm going to bestow these babies on the following:
1. The stylish blogger award goes to... eff at Groupie. I would say she is defiantly is in the know when it comes to good music.
2. The Irresistibly Sweet award goes to... Michelle at A Local Wanderer. Her sweet details about what is going on in my home state are so worth a mention.
3. The versatile award goes to... Rory at The Scottish Scribbler. His blog posts range from photos in his current area (Australia) to conversations with the Royal Family. He is one blogger you won't want to miss!
Now for a few silly things about me:
1. Last night I figured out that I can make a killer Turkey Burger! Season the meat with poultry seasoning, garlic & onion power, and some ground pepper. Then buckle up for great taste without losing too much healthy. I had mine on a whole wheat bun with part-skim mozzarella, avocado, red onion, and tomato - yum! Seriously drooling just thinking about it.
2. The current show I'm obsessing over is Numb3rs (yes I know it's not on the air anymore, but they have all the seasons on Netflix. So much better than waiting week after week.)
3. I play the piano. Not well, mind you, but I can read music.
That about sums it up. Everyone have a great Thursday!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
My Father's Day Gift
Today I went looking for a father's day card for my hubby. I usually pick the most heartfelt card I can find. Something that puts into words what I can't seem to express.
I picked up the first card I could find that might hold what I was looking for. I read it, and I almost bought it. Then I opened it up and read it again.
Really? I thought. You're a writer, and you can't do any better then pick up some card that could apply to a thousand guys? No. I'm not settling for that this year. My husband has done so much for me, he deserves better.
So here I am. I hate to give my hubby his father's day gift early, but I just had to get it off my chest. And I thought you guys might like it as well. Maybe you can steal it and give it to a special someone in your life. (You know, with your own twist)
Cordell,
It has been almost nine years since the day we meet. I sat across from you in a cafeteria and I somehow knew we would be married one day. I tried to fight it. I mean, I was 18. You didn't know that though. You thought I looked older. Maybe I did.
The thing is, I couldn't stay away from you. My roommates told me you weren't good enough. I don't know why I listened to them for so long. You where the first guy to actually try to sweep me off my feet. And you did. Once I fell, there was no getting back up.
That first date, even though it was seven hours long, I never wanted it to end. You where the one for me. I know I was still unsure, I was so young, but you never gave up. Thank you for that.
The day we got married was the most magical day of my life. It wasn't over the top. It wasn't trying to pretend to be any grander than we were. It fit us so well, a day where two people could join together and celebrate. It was a model for how we live now; simply, but with a sense of adventure.
You gave me the two most precious gifts I could ever ask for. I never thought our love could multiply to bring such joy. Then you gave me another gift, the chance to be with them.
You work so hard. You have to deal with office politics and a forty minute commute, all so I can enjoy our children's giggles and watch them grow.
Nothing I buy you could ever repay you for what you have done for me. You have made my life complete. You are my other half.
When we were dating I thought I loved you. The day we married I knew I did. Today that love has grown so large it can no longer be measured. It's been almost eight years since our wedding day, and I hope we have 50 more. You are my life, my breath, my everything. I love you, happy fathers day.
_____________________________________________________________________
P.S. I wrote a little ditty about my muse, and it's being featured on Lyn Midnight's blog here. Go and read, you will love it!
I picked up the first card I could find that might hold what I was looking for. I read it, and I almost bought it. Then I opened it up and read it again.
Really? I thought. You're a writer, and you can't do any better then pick up some card that could apply to a thousand guys? No. I'm not settling for that this year. My husband has done so much for me, he deserves better.
So here I am. I hate to give my hubby his father's day gift early, but I just had to get it off my chest. And I thought you guys might like it as well. Maybe you can steal it and give it to a special someone in your life. (You know, with your own twist)
Cordell,
It has been almost nine years since the day we meet. I sat across from you in a cafeteria and I somehow knew we would be married one day. I tried to fight it. I mean, I was 18. You didn't know that though. You thought I looked older. Maybe I did.
The thing is, I couldn't stay away from you. My roommates told me you weren't good enough. I don't know why I listened to them for so long. You where the first guy to actually try to sweep me off my feet. And you did. Once I fell, there was no getting back up.
That first date, even though it was seven hours long, I never wanted it to end. You where the one for me. I know I was still unsure, I was so young, but you never gave up. Thank you for that.
The day we got married was the most magical day of my life. It wasn't over the top. It wasn't trying to pretend to be any grander than we were. It fit us so well, a day where two people could join together and celebrate. It was a model for how we live now; simply, but with a sense of adventure.
You gave me the two most precious gifts I could ever ask for. I never thought our love could multiply to bring such joy. Then you gave me another gift, the chance to be with them.
You work so hard. You have to deal with office politics and a forty minute commute, all so I can enjoy our children's giggles and watch them grow.
Nothing I buy you could ever repay you for what you have done for me. You have made my life complete. You are my other half.
When we were dating I thought I loved you. The day we married I knew I did. Today that love has grown so large it can no longer be measured. It's been almost eight years since our wedding day, and I hope we have 50 more. You are my life, my breath, my everything. I love you, happy fathers day.
_____________________________________________________________________P.S. I wrote a little ditty about my muse, and it's being featured on Lyn Midnight's blog here. Go and read, you will love it!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
The Semicolon, what does it all mean?
Last week when I posted my little tidbit about breaking grammar rules I got a much bigger response than I was expecting. The number one question that was asked after my post was, how on earth do you use a semicolon? Which is kinda funny, because I had debated whether or not to put that in there.
Since you asked, I thought I would do a little post to put my thoughts on the semicolon out there. I've read few things on the subject, but am, by no means, an expert.
In order to understand the semicolon we must first understand the comma. I tend to way overuse commas, but I think we can generally look at the comma as breath. Anytime something doesn't flow, needs a break, or proceeds a conjunction we should use a comma.
Okay, so what the heck is semicolon for, you ask?
It's for combining two complete thoughts into one sentence. Which means, it should be used rarely. Although, there are times when a semicolon just makes everything mesh together much better.
For example, say you write two short sentences that relate. "I went to the store. I took my dog." These can be combined with a semicolon for better flow. "I went to the store; my dog came with me." The connection lends to a more complete feeling of the sentence rather than two related, but choppy, sentences.
Hopefully that makes sense.
Do you like these posts? Should I keep them coming, or would you prefer to 'google' your grammar woes? What would you like to know?
Since you asked, I thought I would do a little post to put my thoughts on the semicolon out there. I've read few things on the subject, but am, by no means, an expert.
In order to understand the semicolon we must first understand the comma. I tend to way overuse commas, but I think we can generally look at the comma as breath. Anytime something doesn't flow, needs a break, or proceeds a conjunction we should use a comma.
Okay, so what the heck is semicolon for, you ask?
It's for combining two complete thoughts into one sentence. Which means, it should be used rarely. Although, there are times when a semicolon just makes everything mesh together much better.
For example, say you write two short sentences that relate. "I went to the store. I took my dog." These can be combined with a semicolon for better flow. "I went to the store; my dog came with me." The connection lends to a more complete feeling of the sentence rather than two related, but choppy, sentences.
Hopefully that makes sense.
Do you like these posts? Should I keep them coming, or would you prefer to 'google' your grammar woes? What would you like to know?
Monday, June 13, 2011
Monday Best #4
It's that time again! Time to link up your best post! I thought this week I would give you a little prompt to give you an idea of what you want to link, or not. Just some inspiration :)
The theme is: Something New
If you like, link up a post about something new you did, or saw, or learned, from anytime. I'm going to link up my very first post, the one that started it all. Which is really going out there for me. I think my first post was a little strange, but I was new to blogging so please have mercy on me!
Go ahead and link up!
The theme is: Something New
If you like, link up a post about something new you did, or saw, or learned, from anytime. I'm going to link up my very first post, the one that started it all. Which is really going out there for me. I think my first post was a little strange, but I was new to blogging so please have mercy on me!
Go ahead and link up!
<a href="http://abookagirlajourney.blogspot.com/"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 125px; height: 125px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i94cC5w0_mU/TdCMch0C57I/AAAAAAAAAIE/JFCJBF4yGJo/s320/Best.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607135957817157554" border="0" /<>/a>>/div>
Here are the rules:
1. If you don't already, follow the host website (http://abookagirlajourney.blogspot.com)
2. Grab a button and put it on your site so others can find their way back & share in the fun. (put it somewhere I can see it)
3. Link up your favorite post, anything you think needs some comment love.
Friday, June 10, 2011
BIG NEWS!
I have HUGE NEWS! If you follow me on twitter, you already know. But for those of you who don't, I still want you to be in the loop.
*throws confetti*
I wasn't expecting it to end here. Those of you who have seen my word count tracker, you know I wanted to write a lot more. But it just felt right. It was the place.
So does this mean you can go buy my book tomorrow, or even next week? Sadly no. There will be massive amounts of editing, but like I said in my meme I'm just taking in the view for a little while.
I'm actually going to step away from the book for about two weeks. This is so I can go back with fresh eyes and find the true story behind all my words.
What will I be doing in that time? Editing some books for friends, writing short stories, and possibly even holding a contest*! I am so excited for the future. I feel like good things are on the way!
____________________________________________________________________
*more details to come
*throws confetti*I wasn't expecting it to end here. Those of you who have seen my word count tracker, you know I wanted to write a lot more. But it just felt right. It was the place.
So does this mean you can go buy my book tomorrow, or even next week? Sadly no. There will be massive amounts of editing, but like I said in my meme I'm just taking in the view for a little while.
I'm actually going to step away from the book for about two weeks. This is so I can go back with fresh eyes and find the true story behind all my words.
What will I be doing in that time? Editing some books for friends, writing short stories, and possibly even holding a contest*! I am so excited for the future. I feel like good things are on the way!
____________________________________________________________________
*more details to come
Friday's Inspiration
This week I'm going to a much more modern song you probably hear on the radio 20,000,000,000,000,000... times a day. But the visuals in this video really inspire me almost more than the music. I love the chalk dust dance, makes me miss my old dancing days.
The rhythm gets my blood pumping and is perfect for writing action scenes. There's really nothing more I can say about, it. You just have to listen and watch for yourself.
Ah, the sweet, sweet, sound of a beating drum. Love!
The rhythm gets my blood pumping and is perfect for writing action scenes. There's really nothing more I can say about, it. You just have to listen and watch for yourself.
Ah, the sweet, sweet, sound of a beating drum. Love!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
The Elemental Thing
In my current work in progress, I have four characters who each hold a power over one element. Earth, Water, Fire, and Wind. (Well, technically the power holds them. But I don't really want to get into logistics right now.) So I've been trying to study these elements and figure out ways for my characters to use them.
My main character, as most of you know, holds the power of the earth. Therefore, I have been spending a good deal of time standing barefoot in the dirt during all kinds of weather conditions.
I got the chance to stare at a campfire the other night and think about how fire looks and moves
and acts. Wind is unavoidable for me since I live right next to a canyon. I also shower everyday, so you can imagine that I'm around water.
The funny thing is, I already have the information stored in my brain. I've spent countless hours (mostly as a child) digging in the dirt, twirling in the wind, and splashing in the water. Yet, somehow my brain didn't really understand everything I was feeling. Mostly because I didn't care; but doing these things brought all kinds of memories flooding back. It made me miss the dog days of summer where I had nothing to do but revel in the natural beauties that surrounded me.
I think most of us miss at least part of our childhood because we can never get the innocent glory of just being back again.
I guess that's why I write. So I can go back to a time when things just where and no one needed a scientific explanation for it. In the world I created, my characters do impossible things; but on paper they sound perfectly logical. (at least to me)
All of us here, even if we aren't writing books or poems, we're writers! We're writing in blogs and e-mails and always thinking about what goes on around us. For me, writing is a way to escape, but at the same time, writing is way to figure out reality.
If something in my life doesn't make sense I just put it on paper and it helps me think it through.
That's why I'm here, rambling to cyberspace. It's so I can try and understand the world around me.
If you don't take anything else from this post, I just want you all to think about why you do what you do everyday. Sure we go to work to make money, or spend a good deal of timepicking up toys raising kids. But what are we doing that makes it all make sense?
For me it's writing. Sometimes I forget that this is the reason I write, and then it becomes a chore. Today, however, I'm going to take writing and let it help me remember what really matters.
My main character, as most of you know, holds the power of the earth. Therefore, I have been spending a good deal of time standing barefoot in the dirt during all kinds of weather conditions.
I got the chance to stare at a campfire the other night and think about how fire looks and moves
and acts. Wind is unavoidable for me since I live right next to a canyon. I also shower everyday, so you can imagine that I'm around water.The funny thing is, I already have the information stored in my brain. I've spent countless hours (mostly as a child) digging in the dirt, twirling in the wind, and splashing in the water. Yet, somehow my brain didn't really understand everything I was feeling. Mostly because I didn't care; but doing these things brought all kinds of memories flooding back. It made me miss the dog days of summer where I had nothing to do but revel in the natural beauties that surrounded me.
I think most of us miss at least part of our childhood because we can never get the innocent glory of just being back again.
I guess that's why I write. So I can go back to a time when things just where and no one needed a scientific explanation for it. In the world I created, my characters do impossible things; but on paper they sound perfectly logical. (at least to me)
All of us here, even if we aren't writing books or poems, we're writers! We're writing in blogs and e-mails and always thinking about what goes on around us. For me, writing is a way to escape, but at the same time, writing is way to figure out reality.
If something in my life doesn't make sense I just put it on paper and it helps me think it through.
That's why I'm here, rambling to cyberspace. It's so I can try and understand the world around me.
If you don't take anything else from this post, I just want you all to think about why you do what you do everyday. Sure we go to work to make money, or spend a good deal of time
For me it's writing. Sometimes I forget that this is the reason I write, and then it becomes a chore. Today, however, I'm going to take writing and let it help me remember what really matters.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Featured Blogger - Jodi!
Today I had the chance to interview my second winner Jodi from The Scribble Den! She was really fun to talk to and I hope you enjoy her interview as much as I did!
1. For those who don't know, why don't you tell everyone what your blog is about?
1. For those who don't know, why don't you tell everyone what your blog is about?
My blog is about the journey of life. I am a voyeur by nature and love watching, learning and analyzing. It is about trying to understand and navigate through our lives and how we feel and experience as we do. I also like to share not only my life journey, but my writing journey albeit a slow journey at the moment! I like to think of my blog as a place where I can be me, without judgment, where I can share my introspective self and share the journey with others through their comments and thoughts. Sometimes it can be deep other times light hearted. At the very least I hope it is interesting!
2. Are there any books that have made an impact in your life?
I remember reading To Kill a Mockingbird at school and it has stuck with me. I love books that perfectly paint pictures and I love fully developed characters where you feel you are in the story not just reading it. I actually like a wide variety of books from biographies, adventure, mystery, suspense to more light hearted chic-lit books. As long as they have well rounded characters I am usually sucked in!
3. What inspires you to write?
Life. As I said I am a voyeur and daily experiences and watching others inspires me constantly. The ‘writer’ in me is always ‘talking in my head’ as if narrating. Can be weirdly annoying sometimes...
4. How would you spend your "perfect day?"
I did blog about this at one stage http://jodigibson.com.au/2010/05/22/my-perfect-day/ which I think is still fairly accurate, but it depends what sort of mood I am in. A perfect day could be lazing on the beach, or locked in my office writing, or at the park with the kids. Most probably any of these scenarios would involve chocolate though.
5. What is your favorite dessert?
Sticky Date Pudding. It’s sticky, it has dates, it’s a pudding. What’s not to like?? But it has to be homemade ;) by me of course!
I think I speak for everyone when I say, I want that recipe!! Thanks for Coming Jodi! Now everyone, go check out her blog!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Possession: A Time I broke the rules
If you haven't heard about Elena Johnson's Possession, you either don't read book blogs, or you've been dead.
It's only the hottest book just out. So I joined a blog hop to share in the possession love here. The theme of the hop? A time you broke the rules.
To be completely honest, I'm not really a rule breaker. I've always been a 'keep your head down and follow the instructions' kind of gal. But I have broken oh, so, many writing rules, I'm probably even breaking a few right now, this run on sentence for example.
So I'm going to go over a few common grammar rules I've struggled with myself.
1. Commas - I still don't have them quite figured out, but there is one thing I can tell you. If your writing a list of things (i.e. hairbrush, comb, and deodorant) there should always be a comma before the 'and'. It's a common misconception to leave it off. DON'T.
2. A LOT - a lot of people spell a lot like this -alot. This is not a word, it's furry animal from someone's imagination -
To read the incredibly funny article about this click here.
3. Capitalization - when should it be used? At the beginning of a sentence - that's a no brainier. When else? The general rule is for a proper noun. Some examples of words you should always capitalize are words like 'Wednesday', 'English', and 'Spain'. Some examples of things you should not capitalize are words like 'him' unless that is the person's title. Also, words that you want to emphasize such as 'cancer'. You should only emphasize with italics.
Sound good? Good. What a common grammar rule do you break?
It's only the hottest book just out. So I joined a blog hop to share in the possession love here. The theme of the hop? A time you broke the rules.
To be completely honest, I'm not really a rule breaker. I've always been a 'keep your head down and follow the instructions' kind of gal. But I have broken oh, so, many writing rules, I'm probably even breaking a few right now, this run on sentence for example.
So I'm going to go over a few common grammar rules I've struggled with myself.
1. Commas - I still don't have them quite figured out, but there is one thing I can tell you. If your writing a list of things (i.e. hairbrush, comb, and deodorant) there should always be a comma before the 'and'. It's a common misconception to leave it off. DON'T.
2. A LOT - a lot of people spell a lot like this -alot. This is not a word, it's furry animal from someone's imagination -
To read the incredibly funny article about this click here.
3. Capitalization - when should it be used? At the beginning of a sentence - that's a no brainier. When else? The general rule is for a proper noun. Some examples of words you should always capitalize are words like 'Wednesday', 'English', and 'Spain'. Some examples of things you should not capitalize are words like 'him' unless that is the person's title. Also, words that you want to emphasize such as 'cancer'. You should only emphasize with italics.
Sound good? Good. What a common grammar rule do you break?
Blogger tag!
Lyn Midnight over at writers write about writing tagged me in a little get-to-know-you game. So now I get to torture you all with my amazingly bad answers, then make you do the same :)
Crazy questions coming up -
1. Do you think you're hot?
More like mildly spicy.
2. Upload a picture of the wallpaper you're using at the moment :
I love ethereal nature scenes.
3. When was the last time you ate chicken meat?
Thursday night -fajitas. Yummy!
4. The songs you listened to recently:
Unfortunately, the last song I heard was the Chuggington theme song. And it's still stuck in my head (chuga-chuga-chuga-chuga-chuggington!) There - now all the mom's of three-year-old's will have it in their heads too!
5. What where you thinking as you were doing this?
Wow, I have no life.
6. Do you have nicknames? What are they?
My full name is Jennifer Ann Relf Bennett, most people call me Jennie, a few call me Jen, and my brother still calls me Jenniefire.
Tag 8 blogger friends: Sorry I'm only tagging 4:)
1. Joross at Definitely Me
2. Melanie at Livin' the Dream
3. Aakriti at Yarn of Words
4. Sarah at Sarah's blog of Fun
Who's listed as #1?
Joross, a super cool guy who is working at writing and good at being himself :)
How did you get to know #3?
She wrote a really cool comment on my blog. ^-^
How about #4
Well the name of Sarah's blog explains it all, fun, fun, fun!! ;D
Leave a Lovey-dovey message for #2.
Melanie, we've been through some ups and downs, but I have never had to say 'Pardare' to you. You are an awesome lady! :0)
Okay bloggers, tag! I'm sure you'll be more original than me :)
Crazy questions coming up -
1. Do you think you're hot?
More like mildly spicy.
2. Upload a picture of the wallpaper you're using at the moment :
I love ethereal nature scenes.
3. When was the last time you ate chicken meat?
Thursday night -fajitas. Yummy!
4. The songs you listened to recently:
Unfortunately, the last song I heard was the Chuggington theme song. And it's still stuck in my head (chuga-chuga-chuga-chuga-chuggington!) There - now all the mom's of three-year-old's will have it in their heads too!
5. What where you thinking as you were doing this?
Wow, I have no life.
6. Do you have nicknames? What are they?
My full name is Jennifer Ann Relf Bennett, most people call me Jennie, a few call me Jen, and my brother still calls me Jenniefire.
Tag 8 blogger friends: Sorry I'm only tagging 4:)
1. Joross at Definitely Me
2. Melanie at Livin' the Dream
3. Aakriti at Yarn of Words
4. Sarah at Sarah's blog of Fun
Who's listed as #1?
Joross, a super cool guy who is working at writing and good at being himself :)
How did you get to know #3?
She wrote a really cool comment on my blog. ^-^
How about #4
Well the name of Sarah's blog explains it all, fun, fun, fun!! ;D
Leave a Lovey-dovey message for #2.
Melanie, we've been through some ups and downs, but I have never had to say 'Pardare' to you. You are an awesome lady! :0)
Okay bloggers, tag! I'm sure you'll be more original than me :)
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Monday Best blog hop!
Happy, happy, Monday everyone!
I had an amazing weekend! My meme inspired me to go do some hiking! Nothing clears your brain like being in nature. So inspirational!
Here is the weekly blog hop. Hop on and meet some new bloggers!
To brighten your day, here is funny video for all you Harry Potter fans!
I had an amazing weekend! My meme inspired me to go do some hiking! Nothing clears your brain like being in nature. So inspirational!
Here is the weekly blog hop. Hop on and meet some new bloggers!
<a href="http://abookagirlajourney.blogspot.com/"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 125px; height: 125px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i94cC5w0_mU/TdCMch0C57I/AAAAAAAAAIE/JFCJBF4yGJo/s320/Best.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607135957817157554" border="0" /<>/a>>/div>
Here are the rules:
1. If you don't already, follow the host website (http://abookagirlajourney.blogspot.com)
2. Grab a button and put it on your site so others can find their way back & share in the fun. (put it somewhere I can see it)
3. Link up your favorite post, anything you think needs some comment love.
To brighten your day, here is funny video for all you Harry Potter fans!
Friday, June 3, 2011
Friday's Inspiration
This week we are going way back, 13 years to be exact. I was in 8th grade and I had just purchased my first "angry girl/teenager" album. Most of the songs where about heart break and how everyone else was messed up. But one song stuck with me throughout the years, and even though I've listened to it over, and over, and over again. I still love it.
Something about the way her voice is so smooth and mellow, and how lyrics speak of not quite finding your place, it makes me want to cry every time.
For you listening pleasure - Natalie Imbruglia's Left of the Middle.
By the way, I have no idea what this show is! This was just the video with the best sound quality, so close your eyes and be cradled by the music.
I also wanted to let you guys know that I am totally up for suggestions of new music or old favorites that I can use in this spot. So, let me know what is inspiring you this week!
Something about the way her voice is so smooth and mellow, and how lyrics speak of not quite finding your place, it makes me want to cry every time.
For you listening pleasure - Natalie Imbruglia's Left of the Middle.
By the way, I have no idea what this show is! This was just the video with the best sound quality, so close your eyes and be cradled by the music.
I also wanted to let you guys know that I am totally up for suggestions of new music or old favorites that I can use in this spot. So, let me know what is inspiring you this week!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Writing is like...
Firstly, let me draw your attention to a new little feature on my sidebar, a word count tracker. This gives you guys an idea of my goal, and how my book is coming along. If you don't see it moving, I need motivation! Plus it leaves me accountable to you guys :)
The other day the oh so articulate Angela V. Cook at The Starving Novelist tagged me in Writing Meme. The theme? Writing is NOT like a box of chocolates. The purpose? To explain what writing is really like.
What can I compare writing to? Well, I went back to my past. You probably don't know that until I was 12 (and went to Disneyland for the first time) my family had never been on a vacation that didn't involve camping and hiking. If we stayed in a hotel, it was only out of complete necessity. It was also the cheapest place in town (i.e. the budget inn, motel 6, etc.) So today I'm going to compare writing to hiking.
When you start a hike, you have high hopes. You have a goal in mind, you want to reach the top. Your legs are able (or your brain, as writing may go), so you should be too, right?
At first you're taking in the beauty of it all. The birds, the flowers, the sound of rushing water. It fills your senses and pushes you on. That is, until the third or fourth steep climb. You've been here before, you've conquered this demon, and now you have to do it again. And you're still not done. There's a long way to go.
The vegetation becomes more sparse, your legs are killing you. That's when you think, can I really do this? Your hiking companions will push you along. People making the descent will tell you you're almost there. So you forge forward.
When you get to the top, the view is breathtaking. You feel a sense of accomplishment for finishing what you started. You want to spend all your time on top of the world.
Eventually, the stigma wears off. You need a shower, and it would be nice to have a hot meal. You think to yourself it's all downhill. You'll be home making yourself a frozen pizza in no time.
You see how far you've come. The only problem is, the descent looks dizzying. You have to pick your footing more carefully. It's not just charging forward anymore, it's figuring out how you got there in the first place. It can be terrifying at times, but somehow, miraculously, you make it down.
Then you have to ask yourself, was it really worth it? You're not sure until you tell someone you made it to the top. When they hear of your tale, their impressed. It's enough, enough that you might even do it again.
____________________________________________________________________
So now, I get the pleasure of tagging three other writers to carry on the torch!
1. Terron James at The Beholders Series
2. Katie at Katie Madison, Author blog
3. Anmol at Impact of thoughts
Wahoo! I can't wait to see what you guys come up with!
The other day the oh so articulate Angela V. Cook at The Starving Novelist tagged me in Writing Meme. The theme? Writing is NOT like a box of chocolates. The purpose? To explain what writing is really like.
What can I compare writing to? Well, I went back to my past. You probably don't know that until I was 12 (and went to Disneyland for the first time) my family had never been on a vacation that didn't involve camping and hiking. If we stayed in a hotel, it was only out of complete necessity. It was also the cheapest place in town (i.e. the budget inn, motel 6, etc.) So today I'm going to compare writing to hiking.
When you start a hike, you have high hopes. You have a goal in mind, you want to reach the top. Your legs are able (or your brain, as writing may go), so you should be too, right?
At first you're taking in the beauty of it all. The birds, the flowers, the sound of rushing water. It fills your senses and pushes you on. That is, until the third or fourth steep climb. You've been here before, you've conquered this demon, and now you have to do it again. And you're still not done. There's a long way to go.
The vegetation becomes more sparse, your legs are killing you. That's when you think, can I really do this? Your hiking companions will push you along. People making the descent will tell you you're almost there. So you forge forward.
When you get to the top, the view is breathtaking. You feel a sense of accomplishment for finishing what you started. You want to spend all your time on top of the world.
Eventually, the stigma wears off. You need a shower, and it would be nice to have a hot meal. You think to yourself it's all downhill. You'll be home making yourself a frozen pizza in no time.
You see how far you've come. The only problem is, the descent looks dizzying. You have to pick your footing more carefully. It's not just charging forward anymore, it's figuring out how you got there in the first place. It can be terrifying at times, but somehow, miraculously, you make it down.
Then you have to ask yourself, was it really worth it? You're not sure until you tell someone you made it to the top. When they hear of your tale, their impressed. It's enough, enough that you might even do it again.
____________________________________________________________________
So now, I get the pleasure of tagging three other writers to carry on the torch!
1. Terron James at The Beholders Series
2. Katie at Katie Madison, Author blog
3. Anmol at Impact of thoughts
Wahoo! I can't wait to see what you guys come up with!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Featured Blogger - V
Due to my brain exploding a misunderstanding, I am going to feature two lovely ladies on my blog. The first is V over at The Half Baked Music Snob.
I had to the chance to do a little interview and find out more about her. It was really fun and I hope you like what she had to say as much as I did :)
Me: For those who don't know, what is your blog about?
V: My blog is mainly about music and about how I love obsessing over it. But I also write about myself and about how everything is so boring and pointless in life and about how I'd love to personally kick people like Ryan Murphy in the eye for ruining some of my favorite songs for me. (Ryan Murphy is the creator of Glee, BTW) . I also keep writing that I love coffee. I have no idea what I'm trying to prove with that. I doodle a little bit, so you will find a very pathetic doodle popping up on my blog every now and then.
Me: What was the first song that really affected you?
V: I think it's a song by the Smiths called 'Ask'. The lyrics goes something like this:
Me: Do you play any instruments?
V: OMG! No. I don't. I once tried taking piano lessons and it was a big fat tragedy. But I do have the ears for good music and according to me that's a talent. :D
Me: Do you have any heroes?
V: There are a lot of people I admire but the person I love more than anyone and anything else is Morrissey.
Me: What is your favorite breakfast food?
A cup of tea or coffee. I don't like having anything else for breakfast. It makes me very very sick (not really. But that's my argument for always skipping breakfast) :)
I would totally have to agree with V about her talent for hearing music. She has some amazing songs over on her blog. It's something you won't want to miss!
I had to the chance to do a little interview and find out more about her. It was really fun and I hope you like what she had to say as much as I did :)
Me: For those who don't know, what is your blog about?
V: My blog is mainly about music and about how I love obsessing over it. But I also write about myself and about how everything is so boring and pointless in life and about how I'd love to personally kick people like Ryan Murphy in the eye for ruining some of my favorite songs for me. (Ryan Murphy is the creator of Glee, BTW) . I also keep writing that I love coffee. I have no idea what I'm trying to prove with that. I doodle a little bit, so you will find a very pathetic doodle popping up on my blog every now and then.
So, if you like music and if you like insane people then you'll like my blog :)
Me: What was the first song that really affected you?
V: I think it's a song by the Smiths called 'Ask'. The lyrics goes something like this:
"Shyness is nice, and
Shyness can stop you
From doing all the things in life
That you’d like to"
This is the story of my life, and I'm not kidding!
Me: Do you play any instruments?
V: OMG! No. I don't. I once tried taking piano lessons and it was a big fat tragedy. But I do have the ears for good music and according to me that's a talent. :D
Me: Do you have any heroes?
V: There are a lot of people I admire but the person I love more than anyone and anything else is Morrissey.
Me: What is your favorite breakfast food?
A cup of tea or coffee. I don't like having anything else for breakfast. It makes me very very sick (not really. But that's my argument for always skipping breakfast) :)
I would totally have to agree with V about her talent for hearing music. She has some amazing songs over on her blog. It's something you won't want to miss!
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